Formed: 1984
Origin: Japan
Years active: 1984-2007 (Aum Shinrikyo split into Aleph and Hikari No Wa
Founder: Shoko Asahara
Beliefs:
By Ryan Hall
Read More:
Aum Shinrikyo: The power of persuasion
Tokyo sarin gas attack reveals death cult lessons
Tokyo 1995 sarin attack: Aum Shinrikyo cult trials end
Origin: Japan
Years active: 1984-2007 (Aum Shinrikyo split into Aleph and Hikari No Wa
Founder: Shoko Asahara
Beliefs:
- The main system of belief in Aleph incorporates certain facets of Christianity, idiosyncratic interpretations of yoga and the writings of Nostradamus, who published prophesies in the 16th century.
- In 1992, Asahara published a foundational book in which he declared himself 'Christ'.
- Asahara prophesied a World War III doomsday instigated by the United States. According to him, humanity would end as a result, except those who joined Aum.
- The cult was responsible for the fatal Tokyo subway attacks in 1995. Aum members released sarin onboard five trains killing 13 and seriously injuring a further 54.
- It has been formally classified as a terrorist organisation by several countries, including Canada, Kazakhstan and the United States.
By Ryan Hall
Read More:
Aum Shinrikyo: The power of persuasion
Tokyo sarin gas attack reveals death cult lessons
Tokyo 1995 sarin attack: Aum Shinrikyo cult trials end