Scientology is a controversial and often misunderstood religious movement that has garnered both dedicated followers and fierce critics. At its core, Scientology presents a unique set of beliefs about human nature, spirituality, and the path to enlightenment. Understanding what Scientology believes requires examining its fundamental doctrines, spiritual practices, and the worldview it promotes. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what is Scientology beliefs, shedding light on its origins, core principles, and the spiritual journey it advocates.
Origins and Overview of Scientology
Scientology was founded in the early 1950s by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard. Initially starting as a set of self-help techniques outlined in Hubbard’s book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, it quickly evolved into a formal religious movement. Today, Scientology presents itself as a religion that offers a precise path leading to spiritual freedom.
While it claims to draw on ancient spiritual concepts, Scientology is a relatively modern creation, with its beliefs rooted in Hubbard’s teachings and writings. Its rapid growth has led to widespread scrutiny, debates, and legal battles, but its core teachings remain centered on the spiritual advancement of individuals.
Core Beliefs of Scientology
Understanding what is Scientology beliefs involves exploring its fundamental doctrines. These beliefs shape the religion’s practices and the worldview it imparts to its followers.
The Nature of the Thetan
One of the central concepts in Scientology is the thetan, which is considered the true spiritual essence of an individual. Thetans are viewed as immortal, divine beings that have forgotten their true nature.
- The Thetan’s Origins: Scientology teaches that the thetan is an immortal spirit that has existed for trillions of years.
- The Thetan’s Journey: Over countless lifetimes, the thetan has accumulated negative experiences and spiritual traumas, known as engrams, which hinder spiritual progress.
- The Thetan’s Potential: Scientologists believe that by uncovering and understanding these engrams, individuals can regain their full spiritual power.
The Concept of Engrams and the Reactive Mind
A core element in Scientology is the idea of engrams—traumatic memories stored in the subconscious mind, which negatively influence thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
- Engrams: Unconscious memories of past painful experiences, often from painful or traumatic incidents.
- Reactive Mind: The part of the mind that stores engrams and responds automatically, often causing irrational behavior or emotional distress.
- Clearing the Reactive Mind: A primary goal in Scientology is to identify and eradicate engrams, thereby freeing the individual from subconscious negative influences.
The Bridge to Total Freedom
Scientology offers a spiritual journey called The Bridge to Total Freedom, which outlines a series of steps leading to spiritual enlightenment and liberation.
- Auditing: A practice involving counseling sessions where an auditor helps the individual confront and confront engrams.
- Clear State: Achieving a state of mental clarity and freedom from the reactive mind.
- Operating Thetan (OT): Advanced levels of spiritual awareness where individuals can operate independently of physical limitations and influence the material universe.
Spiritual Practices and Rituals in Scientology
Scientology incorporates various practices aimed at spiritual betterment and self-awareness. These practices are designed to help followers achieve higher states of spiritual freedom.
Auditing
Auditing is the cornerstone practice in Scientology, involving a trained auditor guiding the individual through past experiences to confront and eliminate negative engrams.
- The process uses a device called an E-meter, which measures the mental state of the individual.
- The goal is to reach a state known as Clear, where the person is free from the reactive mind’s influence.
Training and Courses
Scientologists participate in training courses designed to teach them about their spiritual nature and how to progress along the Bridge.
- Courses include study of Hubbard’s writings, ethics, communication skills, and spiritual counseling.
- These courses are often attended in Scientology churches or organizations.
Advanced Levels: Operating Thetan
Once a person reaches the state of Clear, they can undertake advanced spiritual levels known as Operating Thetan (OT) levels.
- These levels involve complex teachings about the universe, spiritual powers, and the ability to control physical and spiritual conditions.
- The OT levels are kept secret from new members and are revealed as members progress.
Beliefs About the Universe and Humanity
Scientology’s worldview extends beyond individual spirituality to encompass beliefs about the universe and human origins.
The Origin of Life and the Universe
- Scientology teaches that the universe is the result of an ancient cosmic conflict involving powerful alien beings.
- The most significant of these beings is Xenu, an extraterrestrial ruler who, according to Scientology doctrine, brought billions of people to Earth (then known as Teegeeack) 75 million years ago.
The Myth of Xenu
This story is part of the secret teachings at the highest levels of Scientology and is considered controversial and confidential.
- Xenu’s story involves mass extermination and the implantation of traumatic memories into thetans, which continue to influence human behavior today.
- Followers believe that understanding this story is crucial for achieving higher spiritual states, but it is only revealed at advanced levels.
Human Nature and Spiritual Potential
- Scientology asserts that humans are essentially good spiritual beings with immense potential.
- The negative experiences and engrams from past lives obscure this innate goodness.
- The ultimate goal is to restore the individual’s spiritual abilities and realize their full potential.
Ethical and Moral Framework
Scientology promotes a set of ethical principles designed to improve individual character and societal well-being.
Ethics and Responsibilities
- Followers are encouraged to adhere to ethical standards, including honesty, integrity, and responsibility.
- Ethical conduct is believed to promote spiritual progress and societal harmony.
Auditing and Ethics Programs
- Regular auditing sessions are complemented by ethics programs that help individuals address personal and moral issues.
- These programs are designed to clear individuals of negative influences and improve their behavior.
Criticism and Controversies Surrounding Scientology
While discussing what is Scientology beliefs, it is important to acknowledge the controversies and criticisms it faces.
- Critics argue that the organization is more of a commercial enterprise than a religion.
- There have been allegations of abuse, harassment, and exploitation.
- The secrecy surrounding its higher teachings, including the story of Xenu, has fueled skepticism.
Despite these controversies, Scientology continues to have a dedicated following and maintains its core beliefs centered on spiritual enlightenment and self-improvement.
Conclusion
What is Scientology beliefs? At its essence, Scientology presents a spiritual philosophy that emphasizes the immortal nature of the thetan, the importance of self-awareness, and the pursuit of spiritual freedom through practices like auditing and education. Its teachings about the universe, human origins, and the potential for spiritual enlightenment are distinctive, blending science fiction elements with religious doctrines. Whether viewed as a religion, a philosophy, or a controversial movement, Scientology’s beliefs continue to influence millions and provoke ongoing debate worldwide. Understanding these core principles provides insight into the complex world of Scientology and its followers’ spiritual journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the core beliefs of Scientology?
Scientology is based on the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard, emphasizing that humans are immortal spiritual beings called 'thetans' who have forgotten their true nature. It teaches that through specific practices and auditing, individuals can achieve spiritual enlightenment and freedom from negative influences.
Does Scientology believe in a higher power?
Scientology does not focus on a traditional concept of God but considers the Supreme Being as a spiritual source or the 'Eighth Dynamic.' It emphasizes individual spiritual existence and personal enlightenment over worship of a deity.
What is auditing in Scientology?
Auditing is a central practice in Scientology where a trained auditor helps a person confront and address past traumas and negative experiences, called engrams, with the goal of freeing the individual from spiritual barriers and enhancing their spiritual awareness.
Is Scientology considered a religion?
Yes, Scientology is officially recognized as a religion in some countries, such as the United States. It presents itself as a religious movement focused on spiritual development, though its classification has been subject to legal and societal debates.
What do Scientologists believe about the afterlife?
Scientologists believe that the thetan is immortal and has lived through multiple past lives. They aim to regain spiritual awareness and freedom, ultimately achieving a state called 'Clear' and progressing toward higher spiritual states beyond physical existence.
How do Scientology beliefs differ from other religious practices?
Unlike many religions that focus on worship of a deity, Scientology centers on spiritual self-improvement through auditing and training. It emphasizes personal responsibility, self-awareness, and the idea that spiritual enlightenment is achieved through specific practices rather than faith alone.
