This book investigates the complex interplay between spiritual beliefs, individual identity, and the subjective experience within the context of a Japanese new religion. McVeigh, drawing on extensive fieldwork and theoretical frameworks from sociology and anthropology, examines how adherents of a specific new religious movement in Japan construct their sense of self and reality through the lens of their faith. The study explores the mechanisms by which the religion shapes its followers' understanding of spirits, the self, and the broader social world, highlighting the dynamic relationship between religious doctrine and personal subjectivity.

This academic work is likely to be regarded as a significant contribution to the study of new religious movements and Japanese society. Its detailed ethnographic approach and theoretical depth suggest it will appeal to scholars in sociology, anthropology, and religious studies. The focus on the subjective experiences of adherents offers a nuanced perspective on how individuals navigate faith and identity. The book's rigorous analysis provides a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of spiritual belief and selfhood in contemporary Japan.