In the early 20th century, Japan witnessed the rise of Omoto 大本 (commonly called Omoto-kyo 大本教, though the formal name omits the “kyo” meaning religion). Its teachings significantly influenced the development of Aikido. Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, was known to be a devoted follower of Omoto. However, the religion’s perceived unconventional teachings and political influence attracted the scrutiny of the Japanese government. The first major suppression of Omoto occurred in the early 1920s, marking a turbulent chapter in its history. Omoto-kyo, often considered a new Japanese religion with roots in Shinto 神道, was founded by Nao Deguchi 出口直. Nao, an ordinary housewife from the small town of Ayabe,…