Cults
By Hoshi_Reed
@Hoshi_Reed (257)
Brazil
5 responses
@TheMetallion (1834)
• United States
2 Aug 10
It's a conjugated noun: I have a faith, you have a religion, they have a cult.
1 person likes this
@2004cqui (2812)
• United States
2 Aug 10
You're talking about a very gray area here. Interesting. I've wrestled with this concept for years. I'm amazed they've (statistic makers) have found that people who attend services live longer. I've been taught that faith, church, religion is all about the rules. Learn them all, study, memorize and be able to pass a test on them. WHAT?! No pressure there. God loves you. OK then.
@Hoshi_Reed (257)
• Brazil
2 Aug 10
I've seen all kinds of labels for cults. Some say it is isolation, others a man is equal to a deity/special, some say brainwashing.
I am Pagan but I was raised Catholic and I do think that all religion has some form of brainwashing. I still find myself automatically, when ever I hear, peace be with you, Subconsciously replying/thinking - and also with you. I don't necessary think the brainwashing is BAD, just that it happens. (I am an apostate because I couldn't take the hypocrisy not because I think Christianity is a cult)
@speakeasy (4171)
• United States
2 Aug 10
Websters defines cult as "1. religious sect 2. religious practice or devotion" and it defines church as "1. religous organization 2. religious building 3. whole community of Christians."
So, technically, some churches are cults and other churches are not, depending on how the word church is used.
Common usage of the word "cult"; however, ususally means any religion which is not the speaker's religion; though, some reserve the word "cult" for smaller religious sects.
@barehugs (8973)
• Canada
2 Aug 10
A cult is defined as - a particular system of religious worship, esp. with reference to its rites and ceremonies.
A religion can be defined as -a specific fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects: the Christian religion; the Buddhist religion. (online dictionary)
It would appear that there is very little difference between a cult, and a religion!
A Religious Cult could be,(and often is) a Scam, or Scheme,for the purpose of generating money, targeted at those of low self-esteem, who's lack of self confidence motivates a personal need to confess (often imaginary) sins to a Higher Being, whither that be a God, or a Man pretending to be representative of a Higher Being, and all at a high cost, dependant on the individuals ability to pay!
@Pose123 (21635)
• Canada
4 Aug 10
Hi Hoshi, I've often thought about that and it appears that any religion can be called a cult. I don't think it matters but years ago someone came up with the word cult to refer to some new groups that were springing up in religious circles. I suggest that you look up Websters definition and give it some thought. Blessings.
