What Is A Religious Cult?

Often the term “religious cult” brings to mind the 1978 tragedy of the Peoples Temple group, whose 900 members committed suicide at the command of Jim Jones. It also reminds us of the Branch Davidians, whose isolated compound in Texas was destroyed by fire. Additionally, the recent exposure of polygamy and sexual abuse of girls in the Fundamental Church of Latter Day Saints causes us to wonder how people can so blindly follow another human being. However, we must realize a religious cult may be quietly practicing its unusual beliefs and deceitful manipulations just down the street in our own town.

Religious cult organizations are more prevalent than many comprehend. The word “religious” obviously denotes that there is worship of some kind involved, and “cult” can be defined as “a group that faithfully follows a strong, normally dynamic human leader, creating extreme belief systems, practices, and limitations.” Usually the cult claims to have harmonious connections with traditional orthodox beliefs, but it strays from commonly held doctrines and rules for living. Cults attract followers by kindness, love, and good deeds. One feels accepted and comforted when first exposed to the leaders and members. Soon, isolation from the outside world, including friends and family, is perpetuated. Cult members look, act, and talk similarly.

They may wear certain types of dress, cut or shape their hair in similar styles, and use common phrases when speaking. Attendance of frequent and often long cult meetings is required. Eventually, a person’s identity is defined and wholly dependent upon his or her connection with the group. One wants to please these new friends, and individual decision-making is frowned upon. Access to anything outside of “approved” activities is cause for criticism. Those who don’t fully comply are often shunned. Those of us who attend a church of any kind should ask, “Will the minister be angry if I don’t attend a given service? Are members critical when I don’t volunteer for activities? Am I spending all my free time being involved, isolating myself from family and friends?” The answers may reveal the possibility that the church may be developing cult-like characteristics.