An Analysis of Social and Individual Teachings in Native American Mysticism (Coelho) and Hindi Mysticism (Osho)

In the twenty-first century, most great religious traditions have faced the challenge of new religious movements and sects. In the meantime, the importance of the development of new the kinds of spirituality in Iran, whose political system is based on Islam, is undeniable. As far as meaning and content are concerned, these kinds of mysticism and their teachings do not conform with our social and Islamic values. This study is based on the views of such thinkers like Melton, Bainbridge, Wilson, Sheferz and Paul William, who believe in changing the standards of the new religious movements, and engage in abnormal and unusual religious behaviors. Carried out through content analysis, this research investigates the social and individual teachings of two examples of new mysticism, that is Hindi mysticism (Osho) and Native American mysticism (Paulo Coelho). The results show that teachings which are emphasized in these two kinds of mysticism include: hedonism, love, freedom, individuality, disregard of traditions, responsibility, dance and joy, creativity, courage and audacity, rejection of violence and meditation. Some of these teachings such as responsibility, creativity, nonviolence and so on are not inconsistent with the Iranian culture and Islam, but some others like hedonism, individuality, disregard of traditions and etc. are in stark contrast with the teachings of Islam and the Iranian culture.