Spiritism

Spiritism, codified by Allan Kardec (Hippolyte Léon Denizard Rivail) in 19th century France, found its largest following in Brazil, where it evolved into a unique spiritual practice with approximately 6 million declared followers and tens of millions of sympathizers.

Based on "The Spirits' Book" (1857) and other works, Spiritism teaches that humans are immortal spirits temporarily inhabiting physical bodies. Through successive reincarnations, spirits evolve morally and intellectually, working toward perfection.

Key principles include: the existence and immortality of the spirit, reincarnation as a mechanism of evolution, communication between spirits and humans through mediums, the law of cause and effect (karma), and the practice of charity as the supreme virtue.

Brazilian Spiritism emphasizes healing, both physical and spiritual, through "passes" (spiritual healing energy), water magnetization, and charitable works. Spiritist centers throughout Brazil offer free services including spiritual counseling, healing sessions, and education.

The doctrine integrates scientific inquiry, philosophical reflection, and moral teachings, presenting itself as a "science that studies the nature, origin, and destiny of spirits."