- Divine Truth
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Divine Truth is a new religious movement based in Australia that is usually referred to as an apocalyptic[1] cult. It was started by Alan John Miller, also known as A.J., who claims to be Jesus of Nazareth through reincarnation.
In 2007, Miller purchased an isolated 16ha property at Wilkesdale, Australia. In 2009, Divine Truth followers purchased another 240ha property with plans to build a centre for international visitors. It is estimated that up to 40 more followers have since moved to Wilkesdale which is located near Kingaroy, Queensland.[2][3]
Contents
Leadership
Miller is the "spiritual leader" of the Divine Truth movement. He claims to have realized he was Jesus Christ over a one week period.
Miller claims to remember everything that has happened over the past 2000 years and this includes his crucifixion. When questioned about whether he could speak Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, he said, "It can be spoken. Not now I can't." [4] Miller goes on to say that he has met historical figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Gandhi and biblical figures such as Moses, Abraham, Issac and Jacob in the afterlife. [1] [5] In a seven minute interview, which aired on A Current Affair, Miller goes on to claim that Divine Truth is God's truth and that it is the "absolute truth of the universe." [6] His partner, Mary Suzanne Luck, claims to know she is the reincarnation of Mary Magdalene, although she had no knowledge of her 1st century self prior to meeting Miller. Faithful members of Miller's inner circle also believe they are the reincarnated disciples of Jesus.[citation needed]
Earth changes prediction
Miller has predicted that as early as 2012 a series of Earth changes could cause a world catastrophe resulting in Australia's east and west coasts being wiped out. Miller goes on to say:
- It will not be a tsunami, but water flowing over the land about 100 metres deep. There will be lots of earthquakes.
- There will be no Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Sunshine/Gold Coast ... Inland is where it will be happening.[3]
The Wilkesdale/Kingaroy area where his land is located, is predicted to change from rural to sub-tropical.[citation needed]
Miller also says:
- There's the movie 2012 right? Everyone I suggest you see it, everyone. A lot of the events portrayed in the movie are kind of similar to the events that will be occurring.[7]
Accusations of cultism
Helen Pomery, the centre's spokeswoman for the Cult Awareness and Information Centre, said, "The moment someone becomes God or God's voice on Earth, it gives them another level of authority to enforce submission to them."[2]
References
- ^ a b "Jesus Cult". 7 Perth. http://www.7perth.com.au/view/today-tonight-articles/today-tonight-jesus-cult. Retrieved 28 May 2011.
- ^ a b "Jesus and Mary cult followers buy up land around Kingaroy". The Courier-Mail. 15 May 2011. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/jesus-and-mary-cult-followers-buy-up-land-around-kingaroy/story-e6freoof-1226055912664. Retrieved 22 May 2011.
- ^ a b "Reincarnation couple in cult friction". The Courier-Mail. 22 May 2011. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/reincarnation-couple-in-cult-friction/story-e6freomx-1226060243872. Retrieved 22 May 2011.
- ^ "Concerns voiced for friends and family in religious cult". The Courier-Mail. 22 May 2011. http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/sunday-mail/concerns-voiced-for-friends-and-family-in-religious-cult/story-e6frep2o-1226060121466. Retrieved 28 May 2011.
- ^ "Soap star's ex linked to controversial sect". 9 News. 18 May 2011. http://news.ninemsn.com.au/entertainment/8250917/soap-stars-ex-linked-to-controversial-sect. Retrieved 28 May 2011.
- ^ "The second Coming?". A Current Affair. 16 May 2011. http://aca.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8249816. Retrieved 22 May 2011.
- ^ "Aussie messiah questioned". A Current Affair. 17 May 2011. http://aca.ninemsn.com.au/article/8250274/aussie-messiah-questioned. Retrieved 29 May 2011.
External links
Categories:- New religious movements
- Religion in Australia
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