Scientology: the name alone sparks curiosity, with its celebrity followers and a level of secrecy that intrigues and perplexes many. But what do Scientologists actually believe? Is it a religion, a cult, or something else entirely? This post will take you inside the world of Scientology, breaking down the basics and revealing some of its most surprising beliefs.
The Foundations of Scientology
Scientology was founded in the early 1950s by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard. Its rise to fame (or infamy) came through a mix of science fiction-inspired ideas, self-help techniques, and a fervent desire to offer a new spiritual path to modern-day life. Scientologists view it not just as a religion, but as a complete system for understanding and improving the human mind.
While the organization’s teachings can seem complex and difficult to access, at its core, Scientology is built on the idea that humans are not simply physical beings, but rather spiritual entities with a powerful connection to the universe. But let’s break down some of the main beliefs and practices.
The Key Beliefs Scientologists Hold
Scientologists have a unique and often misunderstood set of beliefs. Here are some of the core tenets that define the religion:
1. Thetans: Spiritual Beings Beyond the Body
The term Thetan is central to Scientology. Scientologists believe that each person is actually a Thetan, a spiritual being that is separate from the body and mind. A Thetan is essentially an immortal soul that has lived through multiple lifetimes, carrying with it the experiences (or “engrams”) from previous lives. This is similar to the concept of reincarnation in some Eastern religions but with a unique twist.
The goal of Scientology is to help Thetans become “Clear” — free of all engrams that cause mental and emotional limitations. This state of Clear is considered a key step to achieving spiritual freedom and enlightenment.
2. The Role of Auditing
One of the most well-known aspects of Scientology is auditing. Auditing is a practice where a Scientologist sits with an auditor (a trained practitioner) and uses an E-meter, a device that measures electrical resistance in the body, to locate and address harmful engrams. The process involves discussing past traumas and experiences, with the aim of clearing these negative memories and achieving spiritual purity.
Auditing is believed to help the Thetan gain greater control over their mind and body, ultimately leading to a state of complete spiritual freedom. It can be intense and sometimes involves revisiting painful memories, but it's viewed as essential for spiritual growth.
3. Scientology’s View of Mankind’s Potential
Scientology believes that every individual has an enormous untapped potential. By removing the limitations imposed by engrams, people can unlock their highest abilities, living a life full of creativity, power, and fulfillment. Scientologists see the human mind as a complex, multi-layered system that can be trained and perfected. In fact, much of Scientology’s appeal is its promise of self-improvement through its structured, step-by-step processes.
The Church of Scientology claims that once a person has achieved the state of Clear, they can also progress through various levels, known as the Operating Thetan (OT) levels. These levels are advanced spiritual states where one can develop extraordinary abilities and achieve higher wisdom.
4. The Church’s Stance on Psychiatry and Psychology
A particularly controversial aspect of Scientology is its intense opposition to psychiatry. Scientologists believe that psychiatric practices, including the use of drugs like antidepressants, are harmful and suppress human potential. Instead, they advocate for using auditing and spiritual methods to resolve mental health issues. This stance has drawn widespread criticism, particularly because of the church’s aggressive campaigns against psychiatry.
For many, this belief feels out of step with modern science, and it has led to clashes with mental health professionals and legal battles in various countries.
What Do Scientologists Believe About Aliens?
One of the more sensational aspects of Scientology, often portrayed in the media, is its belief in extraterrestrial beings. According to some teachings, millions of years ago, an alien overlord named Xenu brought billions of beings to Earth and subsequently killed them, scattering their souls across the planet. These souls, known as Body Thetans, are believed to attach to humans and cause spiritual distress. Scientologists work to rid themselves of these lingering entities through auditing.
While many critics have seized on this aspect to portray Scientology as bizarre or outlandish, it’s important to note that much of the church’s teachings about Xenu and aliens are revealed gradually, and only to those who reach the higher OT levels. The full details aren’t widely known, even by some church members, until they’ve advanced far enough within the church’s hierarchy.
Scientology’s Organizational Structure and Practices
At the core of Scientology’s practices is its hierarchical structure. The Church of Scientology is led by the Church itself, which is overseen by a figure known as the Chairman of the Board. Beneath this position, the organization is broken into various divisions, each focusing on different aspects such as outreach, training, and ethical practices. The church’s complex system of checks and balances ensures strict control over its teachings and its members.
Scientology also places a strong emphasis on volunteer ministers, individuals who are trained to help others by applying Scientology principles to life’s problems. These ministers are a central part of the Church’s outreach and community-building efforts, often assisting with personal development, crisis situations, and spiritual guidance.
Personal Insight
I’ve always been fascinated by religions and belief systems that operate on the fringe, offering something distinct from traditional practices. Scientology, in particular, stands out for its mix of self-help psychology, metaphysical beliefs, and corporate-like structure. While it’s easy to dismiss as “cultish,” it’s worth noting that many people find comfort and community in the church’s teachings — proving that religion and spirituality can be deeply personal journeys, regardless of public perception.
Conclusion
So, what do Scientologists believe? At its heart, Scientology presents a worldview where human beings are spiritual entities with vast potential, hindered by mental and emotional baggage from past traumas. Through practices like auditing, they believe they can clear these limitations and reach a state of spiritual enlightenment and freedom. Whether or not you agree with its teachings, Scientology certainly stands out as one of the more unique and controversial faiths in modern times.
What do you think about the beliefs of Scientologists? Could their practices be beneficial, or is the church more controversial than helpful? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.