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An Introduction to Spiritism

Spiritism is a doctrine based on the immortality of the soul, reincarnation, and communication between the spiritual and physical worlds. This article explores these beliefs, the doctrine’s foundational books, and some reading recommendations for anyone who wants to learn more about Spiritism.

What Is Spiritism?

Spiritism, also known as the Spiritist Doctrine, was codified in the nineteenth century by French educator Allan Kardec. It brings together philosophy, science, and morality, with a particular focus on moral and intellectual self-improvement.

The central belief in Spiritism is that we are immortal spirits who reincarnate to evolve morally. Spiritists also believe that communication with spirits is possible through mediumship.

Foundational Works of Spiritism

The core ideas of Spiritism appear in Allan Kardec’s five foundational works, also known as the Spiritist Codification:

  1. The Spirits’ Book: Presents the doctrine’s principles on the immortality of the soul, the nature of spirits and their relationships with human beings, moral laws, present life, future life, and the future of humanity.
  2. The Mediums’ Book: Discusses the nature of mediumistic manifestations and communication between the spiritual and physical worlds.
  3. The Gospel According to Spiritism: Interprets the teachings of Jesus through the lens of Spiritism.
  4. Heaven and Hell: Examines divine justice from a Spiritist perspective.
  5. Genesis: Addresses scientific, philosophical, and religious questions through the lens of Spiritism.

Recommended Works

After reading the foundational works, several books psychographed by different mediums can help readers explore the doctrine further:

  • The André Luiz series (Francisco Cândido Xavier): This 16-book series presents a detailed view of life in the spiritual world, including reincarnation, the process of death, and life after death.
  • The Joanna de Ângelis series (Divaldo Franco): Joanna de Ângelis is one of Brazil’s best-loved spiritual guides. Through medium Divaldo Franco, she shares messages about love and wisdom to support people on their spiritual path.
  • The Emmanuel series (Francisco Cândido Xavier): Emmanuel is a spiritual guide who, through medium Chico Xavier, shared a series of books on Christian morality from a Spiritist perspective.