1. Terada Yoshirō is an associate professor at Taisho University. 2. This article is translated from the original Japanese that appeared in Shūkyō Kenkyū 宗教研究 88 (2), 2014, 131–58.
關鍵詞
Japanese new religions; theodicy; vitalistic conception of salvation; instruction system; worldly benefits
摘要
This article presents views on, and approaches to, the pursuit of happiness in Japanese new religions, and elucidates their theodicean features. Using as its frame of reference the vitalistic conception of salvation, a fundamentally identical structure in views on salvation and the world in new religions, this article focuses on the systems of instruction (kyōdō shisutemu) they use as it proceeds. The article relies mainly on statements from the major religious groups for its sources, making reference also to groups categorized as “new new religions.” The study ascertained that the new religions have in common a rationally systematized theodicy. They have a shared world view that holds that a person (1) should “polish their heart,” strive to live the right way, and return to the true nature of a pure and unspoiled human being; and (2) should put teachings into practice in their everyday lives, proactively reach out to other people, disseminate the truth, and carry out deeds that are useful in the world; through that process, a person will (3) earn “blessings” and “merit” from a transcendent being that in turn will (4) make it possible to enjoy a happy life. Furthermore, the study also makes clear that not just appealing to a transcendent being but also engaging in ethical practices and discipline in one’s life are necessary conditions for enjoying happiness.
目次
Vitalistic Views of Salvation in New Religions 43 Theodicies of Happiness in New Religions 46 Worldly Benefits in New Religions 49 Theodicies of Suffering in New Religions 51 Systems of Instruction in New Religions 56 Conclusion 59 References 61
