ABSTRACT
While the great majority of religious groups espousing apocalyptic beliefs are benign, a few erupt into violence. This occurs when the figurative rhetoric of the charismatic leader is literally reenacted by a cadre of assistants. These “lieutenants” do not possess charisma themselves but utilize the power of the leader to carry out bold and, on occasion violent, plans. Thus, apocalyptic charisma is a dynamic process in which both leaders and followers participate: neither succeeds alone.
