Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

11-2025

Abstract

Ideas concerning religion are often communicated through popular media, such as anime. One of the anime adaptations that explicitly engages the intersections of religion, science, and philosophy is Vatican Kiseki Chousakan. This anime adaptation centers on a special unit from the Vatican that verifies miraculous phenomena worldwide. In this study, I reflect on how the anime representation communicates religious ideas about miracles, prophecies, and other spiritual matters to its viewers. This critical reflection reveals how anime promotes a philosophical view centered on the complementary relationship between religion and science. With these in mind, this study proceeds as follows. The first part summarizes and contextualizes Vatican Kiseki Chousakan. The second part elaborates on the discernment of miracles through the lens of philosophy, science, and religion. Then, the third part showcases how Vatican Kiseki Chousakan serves as an allegorical communication of a unique philosophy of religion. Focusing on the mysterious events that transpired and were eventually investigated, the interpretation of their symbolism demonstrates the relevance of the conveyed religious ideas to contemporary times. Lastly, the utilization of artistic communication for religious ideas is considered. This study claims that anime, among other artistic creations, can evoke transformative religious experiences.

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