On June 6th, U.S. moviegoers will have the opportunity to experience “Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World,” a new animated film from Happy Science, a religious organization. While the film promises a fantastical journey, it’s essential to be aware of the group behind it, which has been described as controversial.
What is Happy Science?
Happy Science (Kōfuku no Kagaku), founded in Japan in 1986 by Ryuho Okawa, is a self-described “worldwide religious organization that spreads spiritual teachings to solve problems in life with love, enlightenment, and faith”. Okawa, a former Wall Street trader, claimed to be the incarnation of El Cantare, “the Highest God of Earth, the Lord of all gods,” whose previous incarnations include figures like Buddha, Hermes, and Odin.
The core teachings of Happy Science revolve around what they call “The Fourfold Path”: love that gives, wisdom, self-reflection, and progress. Members are expected to seek truth and contribute to a world of love, peace, and happiness. The organization believes in reincarnation, the existence of heaven and hell, and even aliens.
However, Happy Science has faced considerable scrutiny and is widely regarded as a cult. Critics point to its practices, recruitment tactics, and the immense influence of its founder as cause for concern. Okawa’s son, Hiroshi Okawa, has become an outspoken critic, calling his father’s work “complete nonsense” and the organization a “cult”.
Dragon Heart: Adventures Beyond This World
“Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World” tells the story of Ryusuke, a junior high school student, and his cousin Tomomi. During summer vacation, they visit Tokushima and are swept away by the Anabuki River. A dragon rescues them, taking them to a mysterious old man who reveals they are dead. To return to life, they must explore the spirit world and find their mission.
Their journey takes them to a gloomy, 1960s-esque town, where they face terrible events. They witness violence, suffering, and realize they are in hell. The film follows their adventure as they search for their purpose in the afterlife.
Isamu Imakake, who has directed other Happy Science films, directs “Dragon Heart”. The late Ryuho Okawa is credited as the executive producer and original creator. Yūsuke Kobayashi and Chinatsu Hirose voice the main characters, Ryusuke and Tomomi.
Happy Science’s Broader Activities
Happy Science is more than just a religious organization; it’s a multifaceted group with interests spanning education, politics, and media. The Happy Science group includes:
- IRH Press: A publishing division that produces books and other materials.
- Happy Science Academy and Happy Science University: Educational institutions that integrate religious teachings with academics.
- Happiness Realization Party: A political party that advocates for specific policies.
- New Star Production, ARI Production, and HS Pictures Studio: Media entertainment divisions producing films and other content.
The Happiness Realization Party, the political wing of Happy Science, promotes controversial views, including support for Japanese military expansion and nuclear deterrence, as well as denial of historical events like the Nanjing Massacre.
Controversies Surrounding Happy Science
Happy Science has been embroiled in numerous controversies throughout its existence:
- Cult Allegations: The organization has been widely labeled a cult due to its practices, recruitment methods, and the deification of its founder.
- Political Views: The Happiness Realization Party’s stance on historical events and military policy has drawn criticism.
- “Spiritual Vaccines”: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Happy Science offered “spiritual vaccines” that they claimed could cure the virus.
- Failed Assassination Attempt: In the 1990s, Happy Science was the target of a failed assassination attempt by the Aum Shinrikyo cult.
- Defamation Lawsuit: Ryuho Okawa sued his son, Hiroshi Okawa, for defamation after he publicly criticized the organization.
- Questionable Donations and Funding: Critics have described it as a spiritual pyramid scheme, because members rise in status based on donation to Okawa and his larger project.
Happy Science Teachings and Principles
Despite the controversies, Happy Science emphasizes a set of core beliefs and principles:
- The Fourfold Path: Love, Wisdom, Self-Reflection, and Progress.
- El Cantare: Belief in Ryuho Okawa as the incarnation of the supreme being, El Cantare.
- Reincarnation: The belief that souls are reborn.
- Spiritual Exploration: Encouraging members to explore the spiritual world and find their mission in life.
- Creating Utopia: The aim to bring happiness to humanity by spreading truth and working towards an ideal world.
The Financial Aspect of Happy Science
Happy Science is a non-profit organization primarily funded by donations from its members. These donations, often referred to as “Happiness Planting,” are seen as an expression of faith and gratitude to El Cantare. While there are no mandatory membership fees, the organization suggests donations for various levels of involvement:
- Member: Suggested one-time donation.
- Devotee: Suggested one-time donation.
- Monthly Happiness Planting Donation: For supporting missionary work.
- Angel of Great Wealth Supporter: A higher level of monthly donation.
Critics have questioned the financial practices of Happy Science, with some describing it as a “spiritual pyramid scheme”. However, the organization maintains that donations are voluntary and used to fund its various activities and social contributions.
Making an Informed Decision
As “Dragon Heart – Adventures Beyond This World” arrives in U.S. theaters, it’s essential to be aware of the background of Happy Science. While the film may offer an entertaining story, understanding the organization’s beliefs, activities, and controversies allows viewers to make an informed decision about supporting this project.
