This study examines the functional relationship between millenarian-inspired terrorism and the process of political change. Through an exhaustive investigation of late Twentieth-century movements, Aum Shinrikyo, Sendero Luminoso and Hezbollah, it concludes that in each case, apocalyptic expectations performed a significant group mobilization, leadership and therapeutic function

Terrorism and prophecy -- The rise of millenarian terror -- The mediating role of the prophet -- Alienation and the quest for renewal -- Identity and millenarian violence.