معرفت ادیان (Ma`rifat Adyan)

The "Jehovah's Witnesses" movement is one of the contemporary Christian currents that has experienced significant growth in Latin America in recent decades. This research examines how apocalyptic beliefs and group discipline work in tandem to construct a distinct religious identity for the members of this movement. The present study, employing a qualitative and analytical method, examines the organizational texts of Jehovah's Witnesses and sociological sources on religion in order to elucidate the manner in which identity boundaries are formed and in-group cohesion is maintained. The findings indicate that belief in the imminence of the end of the world generates a sense of urgency and deep commitment that leads to the acceptance of internal discipline. This collective discipline, through the observance of behavioral rules, peer monitoring, and regular participation in proselytizing activities, draws a pronounced social boundary between members and the surrounding society. Ultimately, the combination of these apocalyptic beliefs with organizational discipline plays a key role in maintaining the stability and reproduction of the distinct identity of Jehovah's Witnesses in the social context of Latin America.