Abstract

This study discusses the use of meteorological phenomena in Daesoon Jinri, a religion that views such phenomena as a means of predicting changes in human society, whether positive or negative. Like many other religions, the meteorological phenomena in Daesoon Jinri are believed to reveal Jeungsan’s miraculous abilities, serving as an omen or mediator of the divine power. Additionally, during a time when farmers relied solely on rain-fed fields, Jeungsan was viewed as a savior of the world for his ability to turn meteorological disasters such as droughts or floods into life-saving rain and clear skies. In his Reordering Works, there were dramatic changes observed in meteorological phenomena. These changes were believed to produce active energy or serve as a medium through the phenomena. This study aims to understand how Jeungsan used meteorological phenomena to express his views on nature, and to find ways to address the increasing climate crisis and the role of religion. The meteorological phenomena are classified into five categories based on their contextual characteristics: authority and miracle, before and after the Holy Works, and the virtue of cherishing life. Jeungsan’s solution involves the establishment of an organic solidarity between humanity and nature, and their interaction. He also emphasizes resolving all the grievances of the Former World according to the principle of nature. In other words, natural disasters and social injustice can only be eliminated through grievance resolution and the Dao in mutual beneficence.