spiritism

Spiritism is a spiritualist philosophical and religious movement that emerged in the 19th century through the work of French educator Allan Kardec. It is based on the belief that spirits exist, that they are intelligent and capable of communication with the living, and that the soul is immortal and progresses through successive lives. Kardec codified Spiritism in a set of five core works: The Spirits' Book (1857), The Medium and Day and Night (1861), The Gospel According to Spiritism (1864), Heaven and Hell (1865), and The Genesis, Creation and Destiny of Spirits (1868). He described Spiritism as a science, philosophy, and religion, intended to be studied critically and applied ethically.

Core beliefs include the existence and individuality of spirits, the continuity of learning after death, and the law of moral causation, often expressed as progressive moral evolution through reincarnation. Communication with spirits, facilitated by mediuns (mediums), is viewed as a means to acquire knowledge, comfort the grieving, and encourage personal reform. Spiritist practice emphasizes voluntary charitable work, education, and social assistance, guided by moral principles such as compassion, humility, and responsibility.

Organizationally, Spiritism is not a single church but a movement of spiritist centers (casas espíritas) that organize study groups, lectures, prayer, and charitable activities. Its global presence is strongest in Brazil, with significant activity in Portugal and other countries. The movement maintains a focus on rational inquiry, personal ethics, and the application of spiritual insights to everyday life, distinguishing itself from other religious traditions through its combined emphasis on science, philosophy, and morality.