Influence of Eastern Religions on NRMs

Present article studies identity of NRMs and by examining the general characteristics of these movements emphasizes on the fact that despite the many differences which exist among them, all have some characteristics in common which are similar to Eastern religions; characteristics such as non-personal God, the use of magic, reincarnation, and the widespread use of terms common in these Eastern religions.The other focus of the present article, however, is the emphasis on the fact that NRMs mainly historically have Eastern origin as well. The hub of NRMs is Japan and Buddhism, with presence in Japan and hybridization with other religions already present in this country, led to the formation of these movements and in particular social conditions, these movements spread and suddenly filled out the social scene of Japan. Therefore, Buddhism is the main actor in the formation of NRMs and Japan is the country in which these movements have been formed and then, transferred to other parts of the world.