Chen Tao, also known as True Way or True Teachings, is a religious movement that originated in Taiwan during the late 1980s. Founded by Hon-Ming Chen, a former professor of sociology, it blends elements of Christianity, Buddhism, and UFO beliefs.
The term "Chen Tao" can be translated as "True Way" or "True Teachings," reflecting the movement's ideology that claims to offer the genuine spiritual path towards salvation and enlightenment. Adherents of Chen Tao believe that Hon-Ming Chen is the final reincarnation of Jesus Christ and the Supreme Being. They consider him a divine figure who will save humanity during the apocalypse by leading his followers to a hidden refuge, often depicted as a spaceship.
Chen Tao promotes strong communal bonds among its members and adheres to strict religious practices, including fasting, meditation, and prayer. The movement often attracts individuals seeking spiritual awakening, solace in times of crisis, or a sense of belonging to a closely-knit community.
Chen Tao gained international attention in 1997 when its followers predicted that a gigantic spaceship would appear in the Earth's atmosphere before the end of the year to rescue its believers from a catastrophic flood. However, the prophecy failed to materialize, leading to disappointment among members and the subsequent decline of the movement.
Due to its relatively short lifespan and limited following, Chen Tao remains largely obscure outside of Taiwan and has been classified as a cult by some religious scholars and organizations.
