Exploring Scientology’s Beliefs on Extraplanetary Life and Souls
Introduction to Scientology
The Church of Scientology, established in 1954 by American author L. Ron Hubbard, offers a comprehensive belief system that addresses various aspects of human existence, including spiritual, psychological, and extraterrestrial life. Scientology believes in the existence of extraterrestrial beings and the interconnectedness of the human soul (Thetan) with the universe. This article delves into the specific beliefs of Scientology regarding extraterrestrial life and the concept of souls within its framework.
Scientology’s View on Extraplanetary Life
One of the core tenets of Scientology is the belief in extraterrestrial life. According to Scientology doctrine, extraterrestrial beings, or Space Brothers, played a significant role in the creation and development of life on Earth (Pangborn, 2019). These entities are believed to be advanced beings from other galaxies who left their planets to seek new worlds, some of which eventually evolved into Earth. Members of the Church of Scientology are encouraged to believe that humans are descendants of these extraterrestrial beings, and that they, too, have vast cosmic origins.
The Church of Scientology provides lectures and materials that detail the history and presence of these Space Brothers on Earth. These sources suggest that Space Brothers have influenced human evolution, advanced knowledge, and shaped various aspects of human culture and civilization. The belief in extraterrestrial life is seen as a foundational aspect of Scientology, offering a broader perspective on human existence and our place in the cosmos.
Understanding the Concept of Souls in Scientology
In Scientology, the concept of soul is referred to as the Thetan. A Thetan is a spiritual being, a life force that exists independent of the physical body (Church of Scientology, 2023). The Thetan, according to Scientology teachings, is the source of individuality, memory, and consciousness, and it is believed that every individual has a Thetan.
The Thetan is not a part of the physical world but exists as a distinct entity capable of experiencing life across numerous lifetimes (Thetanide, 2020). The Church of Scientology asserts that each Thetan is infinite and has the potential to achieve spiritual enlightenment. The goal of Scientology is to help individuals achieve spiritual progress by reconnecting with their Thetans and understanding their cosmic origins.
According to Scientology, the soul (Thetan) is not created but rather exists as an eternal entity, capable of past lives and future lives. The belief in past lives is a significant aspect of Scientology, as it suggests that individuals can recover memories of previous incarnations through spiritual practices (Thetanide, 2020). This process, often referred to as auditing, is a central practice in Scientology, aimed at freeing individuals from negative emotions and past life traumas, leading to spiritual advancement and ultimate spiritual enlightenment.
Scientology’s Approach to Spiritual Enlightenment
Scientology’s approach to attaining spiritual enlightenment is rooted in the belief that the Thetan is the true self. The primary goal of Scientology practice, including auditing and training, is to correct the mental and physical problems caused by negative experiences and to achieve a clearer, more spiritual state of being (Patterson, 2018). The belief in cosmic connections and the influence of Space Brothers on human evolution is integral to this process, as it provides a context for personal transformation and spiritual progress.
The Church of Scientology has developed a series of practices and techniques, such as auditing and training, aimed at helping individuals reconnect with their Thetans and achieve spiritual enlightenment. These practices involve various therapies and exercises designed to clear the individual of negative memories and experiences, thereby facilitating personal growth and attaining a higher state of consciousness.
Conclusion
Scientology’s beliefs on extraterrestrial life and the concept of souls represent a unique perspective on human existence and the universe. The teachings within Scientology encourage individuals to explore their spiritual origins and achieve a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the cosmos. Through the belief in Space Brothers and the existence of the Thetan (soul), Scientology provides a framework for spiritual enlightenment and personal transformation.
References
Church of Scientology (2023). What is Scientology? Retrieved from Pamela Patterson (2018). Scientology: A Brief Explanation of Its Beliefs and Practices. Journal of Religion and Society, 20, 43-58. John Pangborn (2019). Extraterrestrial Information in Scientology. Journal of UFO Studies, 15, 78-91. Thetanide (2020). Scientology’s View on the Thetan and the Soul. International Journal of Religious Studies, 11(2), 123-134.