imbumism

Imbumism is a fictional religious and philosophical movement created for illustrative purposes in discussions of new religious movements. It centers on the belief in a universal life-force called Imbu, which practitioners say permeates all beings and phenomena. Adherents describe humans as caretakers of Imbu who must maintain balance between personal well-being, community health, and the natural environment.

Origins and development are framed in the imaginary coastal city of Lumara within the fictional Imbu Archipelago, where the doctrine is said to have matured in the late 1990s through writings attributed to a mystic known as the Seer of Lumara and later codified by the Collective of Imbu. The movement emphasizes that harmony with Imbu can be fostered through ethical conduct, truthful communication, and proactive care for living beings.

Core beliefs are organized around three commitments: compassion for all beings, truthfulness in speech and action, and ecological stewardship. Imbumists pursue a simple lifestyle, mindful daily practices, and communal service. Sacred texts include The Scroll of Imbu and The Echoes of Imbu, which circulate among local temples and study groups. Ritual life often centers on daily practices of gratitude, water offerings to rivers and springs, and a yearly Festival of Imbu marking seasonal transitions. A rite of passage called Awakening signals entry into adult responsibility within the community.

Organizationally, Imbumism is described as non-hierarchical, with local temples governed by elected councils and a loose cadre of mentors known as Keepers. The movement has a small but persistent following in its fictional setting and is often discussed in academic and literary contexts as an example of ecologically oriented new religious movements.