Against the background of New Thought history in general, the dissertation researches
the origins of the movement in South Africa. On the basis of primary documents, made
available by leaders and other informants, questionnaires, semi-structured interviews
and participant observation, the roots and history of New Thought in South Africa has
been reconstructed. Aspects of New Thought belief, such as God, Jesus, Christ, the
Bible, prayer, meditation, wealth, prosperity, death and reincarnation are discussed. It
becomes apparent that, with its syncretistic, flexible and open structure, as well as the
unique way in which services (weddings, christenings, funerals) are conducted, New
Thought offers an alternative to spiritual and religiously minded people in South Africa,
and shows potential to play a dynamic role in the cross-cultural bridging that is taking
place in a changing South Africa. / Religious Studies and Arabic / M.A. (Religios Studies)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:unisa/oai:uir.unisa.ac.za:10500/17800 |
| Date | 11 1900 |
| Creators | Venter, Maré |
| Contributors | Kruger, J. S (JAcobus Stefanus), 1940- |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Dissertation |
| Format | 1 online resource (vi, 152 leaves) |
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