Introduction
Understanding Kardecist spiritism
Kardec wanted to subject the mediumnic messages to a methodical comparison and to present spiritism as a "scientific observation" and a moral philosophy. However, in the current academic sense, his assertions about spirits are not scientifically established.
The rotating tables and medium sessions spread after 1848.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- Kardec wanted to submit the mediumic messages to a methodical comparison and to present spiritism as a "scientific observation" and a moral philosophy.
- The rotating tables and medium sessions spread after 1848.
- Spirits are the souls of the dead at different degrees of evolution.
- spiritism makes reincarnation and charity the driving force behind a progressive education of the mind.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
The rotating tables and medium sessions spread after 1848.
Historical developments
Kardec collected answers received by several mediums and published The Book of Spirits in 1857.
Ritual life and teachings
Spirits are the souls of the dead at different degrees of evolution.
A living and plural tradition
In Brazil, the movement was associated with strong Christian ethics, philanthropy and spiritual care practices, while influencing Umbanda.
History and development
The rotating tables and medium sessions were distributed after 1848. Kardec collected answers received by several mediums and published The Book of Spirits in 1857.
In Brazil, the movement was associated with strong Christian ethics, philanthropy and spiritual care practices, while influencing Umbanda.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
Spirits are the souls of the dead at different degrees of evolution. They reincarnate themselves to learn, repair and progress towards perfection. Jesus is considered as the supreme moral model.
Collective study, prayer, medium sessions, magnetic passes, aid to suffering spirits and charity structure the centers. There is usually no sacrament or clergy.
Texts, symbols and transmission
The Book of Spirits, The Book of the Midwayers, The Gospel according to spiritism, Heaven and Hell and Genesis. Symbolic vine and motto "out of charity, no salvation" are frequent.
What research can and cannot say
Medium-scientific experiments may involve expectation, dissociation, automatism and social construction. Studies have not provided consensus evidence of the survival of consciousness. Disquieting distress or voices also require medical evaluation.
References