Modern anti-epidemic measures as a factor of radicalization of the religious situation and formation of extremist discourse

Modern anti-epidemic measures lead to the radicalization of religious relations and contribute to the formation of extremist discourse, which is in demand by some fanatical believers. This article is devoted to the analysis of its structure and semantic features. The study was carried out within the framework of a hermeneutic approach to the study of complex religious phenomena. The conceptual apparatus and tools of categorical semiotic analysis of religious processes are used. The sources of the research are original texts of an eschatological orientation, including prophetic and pseudo-prophetic narratives, including anonymous and pseudonymous ones. Our analysis of the texts made it possible to identify the main mythologemes and mythotheologemes that are basic for eschatological medical conspiracy narratives. These are mythologemes of demonization of vaccination, social restrictions prescribed, and changes of a liturgical nature. Vaccination is announced as the seal of the Antichrist. The main areas of radicalization are a categorical prohibition of vaccination, accompanied by an open demonization of anti-epidemic measures; the prohibition of prayer and Eucharistic communion with all who have a certificate of vaccination; a comparison of doctors and government officials who carry out anti-epidemic measures to “fascists”; and calls for a real war / “preparation for war” with the authorities and all supporters of anti-epidemic measures. It is concluded that speculation around anti-epidemic measures, provocative accusations of their supporters of “lack of faith” and “apostasy” are actively used in order to radicalize the confessional relations and the transmission of ideas of extremism under the guise of the ideological attitudes of religious pseudo-traditionalism.