The Meaning of ‘Cult’

09Oct08

Before I get into too much detail here, a cult should be defined.  Before we can define a cult, however, we must first explain what a religion is.

Religion: a strong belief in a supernatural power or powers that control human destiny

Some well known world religions would be Judaism, Hinduism, Muslim, and Christianity.  Notice that one group is not claiming to be a part of another group.  Each religion is it’s own entity with a deity (or deities), sacred writing, and religious practices.

A cult (not to be confused the occult), would then be defined as follows:

Cult: a religion or sect that is generally considered to be unorthodox, extremist, or false

The best way in which a cult can be identified is to see what it claims to be.  A cult claims association with a religion, but does not share the same views of sacred writings or deity.  By looking at these two parts of a religious group, one can then decide as to whether they are a religion (or a denomination of that religion), or indeed a cult.


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3 Responses to “The Meaning of ‘Cult’”  

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  1. 1 WTF Chuck? on 14 October, 2008 said:

    Another thing to consider - how sects fit in to the whole puzzle. What typically characterizes a sect? How does it differ from a cult?

    I’d be happy to offer my opinions on all of the above if you like.

  2. 2 Mick on 14 October, 2008 said:

    That would be great. Please share as this blog is all for discussion.

  3. 3 Melinda Quantrell on 22 November, 2008 said:

    Hey, I was reading about your cult post and thought there is one you should really check ou if you haven’t already. I saw a TV special on it and then went online to there website and it chilled me to the bone. It’s called the Growing in Grace movement (website http://www.cegenglish.com/) and it’s lead by a man named Dr Jose Luis De Jesus Miranda. Just thougt it would be something that you may want to look into. BTW sorry we’ve missed the last few small groups. We’ve been sick and all that great winter stuff BUT come snow or shine, sickness or health WE WILL be at the one the wk after thanksgiving….

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