Sekai Kyuseikyo: Its presence and spread in Thailand

Abstract

     This study of “Sekai Kyuseikyo”, a new religious belief from Japan, focuses on the presence and factors of its spread in Thai society. Sekai Kyuseikyo, a functional religious belief adapted from Mahayana Buddhism, Shintoism, and general ethics, made its appearance in Thailand by introducing the belief into Thai society in accordance with situations, social, and cultural contexts in each period of time. It attempted to adjust to local cultures in order to gain acceptance from Thai society. On the other hand, it succeeded in keeping its Japanese style of practices, management, culture, and discipline. In addition, the existence of Sekai Kyuseikyo in Thailand is in connection with socio-economic changes in both Thailand and Japan and the relationship between the two countries. Thai society opened up to the sect as an option for people living with socio-economic tension. As a result, up until now, Sekai Kyuseikyo has gained space in Thai society.