Welcome to SPIRITISM 101 (at www.SpiritistDoctrine.com) !   The objective of this website is to provide a source of introductory level information, published in the English language, about the Doctrine of Spiritism (as codified / compiled by Allan Kardec).   The intention is to convey the fundamental ideas of those teachings to our visitors, especially those who are not familiar with the Doctrine.   In addition to passing on the basics of the Doctrine’s philosophy, revelations, and lessons, we also want to help our visitors understand where the Doctrine came from and how it is studied and practiced today.

     In spite of the scope of knowledge found on this site, we must tell you that the information presented here touches only the “tip of the iceberg”, so to speak, in terms of all that this Doctrine has to offer.  Due to its moral, philosophical, and scientific nature, Spiritism’s teachings touch on all aspects of life- from the bigger philosophical picture to the day-to-day events and emotions that we all experience. 

     The 5 books that make up the codification of this doctrine offer its base/foundation of information and are a necessary reading for any serious student of Spiritism.  Since those books were published (late 19th century), there has also been a tremendous amount of supplemental work published-  written by both the incarnate (people) and discarnate (spirits who are not presently incarnated in a material body and who communicate to us through people referred to as mediums), and these latter works all bring information that agrees with-- sometimes explaining and often adding to-- the fundamental teachings and communications found in the works of the codification. 

     At this point in time, the vast majority of such works from the Spiritist Doctrine have been published in Portuguese and Spanish, since, at present, Brazil and the Latin American countries are where the Doctrine is predominantly studied and practiced (The original codification was actually published in French). However, the study and practice of Spiritism today is found around the globe and grows continuously in its number of followers, who are attracted by its rational philosophy, scientific study, and moral guidance.

     The doors to this blessing of enlightenment were first opened to the speakers of the English language with the publishing of English translations of the five books of the codification. "The Spirits' Book", "The Mediums' Book", and "Heaven and Hell" were translated by Anna Blackwell,  "The Gospel According to Spiritism" (currently published with title translated as "The Gospel As Explained By The Spiritist Doctrine) was translated by Janet Duncan, and "Genesis" was translated by W. J. Colville.    Recently, there have been a few more books (from those written after the codification) translated into English (see Spiritist Books) and there are currently initiatives, among various groups, to bring forth even more translations.  To those English speakers who find the information presented here of interest, and to those who, having already read the books translated thus far, find themselves touched and hungry for more, we encourage you to have patience, for it is coming. Continue to study the works that are available in English now, for each time you open them, you will find you learn something new, and check back here often for news of new books, internet sites, and other resources that bring the Spiritist Doctrine to speakers of the English language.

    The need for Spiritist resources in English, one in particular being an easily accessible, introductory level overview of  the Doctrine and its practice, is what prompted the creation of this website.  Here are some examples of what you can find here: 

In reference to what Spiritism has to offer us in terms of knowledge and inspiration, you will find information like:
- the scientific, philosophic, and religious make-up and teachings of the Doctrine.
- an explanation of what Spiritism teaches about spirits, reincarnation, and mediumship
- sources of additional information (books and how to obtain them, websites, etc.) .

In reference to the history and practice of Spiritism you will find :
- an overview of the events that lead to the codification of the Spiritist Doctrine
- an explanation of the books that make up the codification and the books that have followed.
- a description of a Spiritist Center, where Spiritists go to study and work, as well as explanations regarding the practice of mediumship in a Spiritist Center.

    The advantage of electronic media such as the Internet, is that not only is it widely accessible, but it is also allows for additions and updates. Please be sure to check back for our latest additions to this site.

     We hope you find the information presented in this website interesting and inspiring, and that you are encouraged to learn more.

* If you are new to Spiritist Doctrine or you are looking for something in particular,  feel free to browse (also see our Index page), but for a more serious study, we suggest that you read the sections in the order you find them listed-- under "General Categories of Study"-- on the home page.  Many of the ideas and concepts discussed in later sections build on those explained in previous ones.

Peace to all and thanks for visiting!
The Leon Denis Spiritist Study Group