The Ideology of Scientology and Kabbala :: Religion Scientology Kabbala Religious Essays

The Ideology of Scientology and Kabbala A leader of the Church of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, once wrote, â€Å"A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists (3).† Alternative religions have had a dramatic impact on today’s culture. In the past few years, Hollywood has become â€Å"the cast of religious fads (2).† Many famous people such as Madonna, Roseanne, and Courtney Love have become products of the alternative religion, Kabbalahism. Others like John Travolta and Tom Cruise are well known, devote Scientologists. These two religions, Kabbalahism and Scientology have been the leading alternative religions and the cultural phenomenon of the 90’s. Our culture, Hollywood especially, has seen the biggest impact of this new phenomenon through the media. Christianity has very defined principles. They believe in one god who is an all knowing, all loving, all forgiving, and perfect being. Jesus sacrificed his life on the cross for our sins. They believe we must live our lives striving to be Christ in hope that our souls will live in eternity, Heaven. Kabbalahism, too, states that individuals must always try to walk the way of the Creator, be attached to him and all one’s thoughts should be in regard to him. Yet, Kabbalahists question the â€Å"Divine force.† Kabbalahists do not believe in an opposing evil force to God, or as they call it, â€Å"sitra achrah.† They believe all that we experience, both good and evil, is a direct result of the Creator. Kabbalahists feel that if God is the divine force whom created us all then why does he not show himself to us (1). Their belief is that life would be much easier if the Creator was visible in every way. Any doubts we once held of his existence would diminish, and we would realize the reason of our creation. We would be able to see his reactions to any of our negative mannerisms or behaviors. Our questions of why he causes our troubles would be answered and we would be able to change ourselves in accordance to do his will and get on the path to eternity. Through this visual perception of the Creator, we would be able to live by his example. There would not be a need for educators.