To many people, Scientology remains a mystery. Dreamed up by a sci-fi novelist in the 1950s, its complex structure of doctrines seems more fitting to speculative fiction than a spiritual guidebook. These guidelines include highly specific, and somewhat questionable, practices. Let’s take a closer look at the sacred tenets behind this unique belief system.
The Thetan Concept
Scientologists believe that each human is fundamentally a spiritual being called a “thetan.” This immortal entity has lived through past lives and possesses the potential to achieve great spiritual powers. Understanding and harnessing the capabilities of one’s thetan is central to Scientology practice.
Auditing
Auditing is a core practice in Scientology, where individuals recount events from their current or past lives to clear themselves of hidden traumas. An auditor assists the participant using an E-meter, which purportedly measures mental mass and energy. This process is believed to free individuals from the spiritual distress tied to past experiences.
The Reactive Mind
The reactive mind, according to Scientology, stores all pain and emotional trauma, operating below the level of conscious awareness. Scientologists strive to rid themselves of these negative influences, achieving a state known as “Clear.” This belief underscores the religion’s focus on mental health and self-mastery.
Xenu and the Galactic Confederacy
One of Scientology’s more controversial beliefs involves the story of Xenu, a galactic ruler who, according to doctrine, brought billions of people to Earth 75 million years ago and destroyed them with hydrogen bombs. This narrative is part of the Church’s secret “OT III” level of teaching, only revealed to members who reach a certain stage of spiritual advancement.
The Bridge to Total Freedom
Scientologists follow a path known as The Bridge to Total Freedom, which comprises a series of levels and steps designed to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Each level aims to enhance a follower’s spiritual awareness and capabilities. Progression through these levels is meticulously structured and requires significant study and auditing.
Suppressive Persons
Scientologists label individuals who impede their spiritual progress as Suppressive Persons (SPs). Engaging with an SP is believed to jeopardize one’s spiritual well-being and can lead to expulsion from the community if not handled properly.
Ethics and Morality
Scientology espouses a unique framework of ethics and morality that focuses on survival across various dynamics, including self, family, group, and humanity. Adherents are encouraged to make decisions that promote survival on these multiple fronts. This system is both a spiritual guideline and a means of social control within the Church.
Silent Birth
The practice of silent birth is based on the belief that noise and spoken words during childbirth can cause trauma to the mother and the newborn. As such, silence is maintained to safeguard the baby’s thetan from negative imprints.
Sea Org
The Sea Organization, or Sea Org, is a dedicated clerical order within Scientology, and members sign a symbolic billion-year contract to signify their eternal commitment to the religion. This group is considered the backbone of the Church, administering key operations and advancing its global mission.
Fair Game Policy
Although officially canceled, the “Fair Game” policy suggested that those declared suppressive could be dealt with harshly without repercussion from the Church. This has led to allegations of harassment against critics and defectors. The policy’s legacy continues to impact the public perception of Scientology.
The Eight Dynamics
Scientology teaches that life is compartmentalized into eight dynamics, encompassing all aspects of existence from the self to the infinite. Each dynamic represents a specific area of concern in a person’s life, such as family, community, and spirituality. Balancing these dynamics is crucial for personal and spiritual development.
Dianetics
Dianetics, the precursor to Scientology, centers on the methodology for removing the reactive mind’s negative effects to achieve a state of clarity. It was developed by L. Ron Hubbard in the 1950s and remains a fundamental part of Scientology teachings. The practice of Dianetics uses a combination of counseling techniques aimed at rediscovering and handling life traumas.
The Tone Scale
The Tone Scale is a tool used by Scientologists to assess and categorize human behavior and emotion on a scale from death (40) to spiritual enlightenment (+40). Members use this scale to gauge their interactions and personal progress. It serves as a diagnostic tool for emotional state and relational dynamics.
Potential Trouble Source
A Potential Trouble Source (PTS) is someone who is unduly influenced by suppressive persons. Identifying and resolving a PTS condition is crucial for a Scientologist’s spiritual health and community standing. The concept ensures that members maintain a conducive environment for their spiritual practices.
Clearing the Planet
Scientologists believe in the goal of “Clearing the Planet,” which involves auditing as many people as possible to achieve a state of Clear. This mission reflects the Church’s broader aim of salvaging the world by elevating individuals’ spiritual states. It’s a vision that motivates many of the Church’s global initiatives.
The E-Meter
The E-Meter, or Electropsychometer, is a device used during auditing to measure the electrical resistance of the skin as an index of subconscious thoughts and feelings. Its readings help auditors identify areas of spiritual distress or travail. The E-Meter is emblematic of Scientology’s blend of spiritual beliefs with a semblance of technological objectivity.
Keeping Scientology Working
“Keeping Scientology Working” is a policy that emphasizes strict adherence to Hubbard’s teachings as the only path to success in Scientology. This doctrine is central to maintaining doctrinal purity and operational effectiveness within the Church. It mandates rigorous training and adherence to prescribed practices for all members.
The Rehabilitation Project Force
The Rehabilitation Project Force (RPF) serves as a correctional program within Scientology for members who have severely violated its codes. Participants undergo intense physical labor and extensive auditing sessions to realign with the Church’s doctrines.
Study Technology
Ron Hubbard developed Study Technology, a methodology intended to enhance learning and comprehension by identifying and overcoming barriers to study. This educational approach is applied in Scientology’s schools and courses, emphasizing practical application and understanding.
The Religious Technology Center
The Religious Technology Center (RTC) holds the trademarks and copyrights of Scientology materials. It is responsible for ensuring that the standard and pure application of Hubbard’s teachings are maintained across all Scientology organizations. The RTC symbolizes the centralized control and authority within the Church.
The Freewinds
The Freewinds is a ship that serves as an advanced religious retreat for Scientologists, offering high-level courses not available elsewhere. It symbolizes the journey towards higher spiritual enlightenment and mastery in Scientology. The Free Winds also acts as a symbolic representation of freedom and spiritual exploration.
The Purification Rundown
This detoxification program aims to flush out toxins and drug residues that impede spiritual progress using a regimen of exercise, sauna sessions, and high doses of vitamins. Scientologists believe that this process purifies the body, enhancing both mental and spiritual clarity.
Operation Snow White
In the 1970s, Operation Snow White was launched by Scientology in an attempt to purge unfavorable records about the Church and its founder from governmental agencies. This operation led to several high-ranking Scientologists, including Hubbard’s wife, being convicted of conspiracy against the U.S. government.
