The Doukhobors first appeared in the 18th century. By the end of the last century or the beginning of the present, their doctrine had become so clearly defined and the number of their followers had so greatly increased, that the Government and the Church, considering this sect to be peculiarly obnoxious, started a cruel persecution.

The foundation of the Doukhobors‘ teaching consists in the believe that Spirit of God is present in the soul of man, and directs him by its word within him.

Vladimir Chertkov: Their Martyrdom in Russia (in: Alexander M. Evalenko: The Message of the Doukhobors: a statement of true facts by „Christians of the Universal Brotherhood“ and by prominent champions of their cause (University of Michigan, 1913, pp. 84-92).

Vladimir G. Chertkov and Leo N. Tolstoy