Topic > Wicca vs. Scientology - 1334

At first glance, Wicca and Scientology may seem like completely opposite religions, as they share no common principles or practices. Contrary to this, both belief systems actually share several distinctive qualities that set them apart from many of the world's major religions. First, Wicca, the formal organization of witchcraft, is a mystery religion. Each practitioner is considered a witch and practitioner of the Craft, which contains different beliefs regarding theology and divinity depending on the individual due to their freedom to study what they seek. Members can choose to be solitary or be part of a coven, which is a group of Wiccans who share beliefs and conduct rituals together. Although different Wicca groups may differ in certain views, there are few unambiguous attributes of the religion. These explain that “divinity is inspiring and immanent; Human beings are a part of nature; Divinity manifests itself in all things and is the central part of nature; God and Goddess images are recognized as higher forms of divinity. (Church and School of Wicca). The main rule Wiccans abide by is the Wiccan Rede, which preaches: “If you harm no one, do whatever you want.” (Church and School of Wicca). Magic plays a huge role in the Wiccan religion, with spells, rituals, ceremonies, healing and divination, etc., among the core practices. Similar to Wicca, Scientology is a largely solitary religion, focused on each practitioner and their personal journey through life to achieve fulfillment and happiness. Every Scientologist believes in "thetan," which is their true identity, or "spirit." Scientology is based on fundamental principles that serve as a guide to each individual's ultimate spiritual enlightenment... half of the document... reasons seem devoid of any similarity, it is evident after some thoughtful research that they share distinct standards and beliefs for their members and their way of life. Works Cited: Church of Scientology International. www.scientology.orgChurch and School of Wicca. www.wicca.orgHolland, Eileen and Raymond Buckland. The Wicca Manual. San Francisco, CA: Red Wheel/Weiser, LCC, 2008. Hubbard, L. Ron. Scientology: A New Perspective on Life. vol. 1. Commerce, CA: Bridge Publications, Inc, 2007. Rastogi, Nina. "The Afterlife for Scientologists." Slate Magazine, August 11, 2008, 1.Robinson, BA "Information about the Church of Scientology, a religion founded by L. Ron Hubbard." http://www.religioustolerance.org/scientol.htmRobinson, Bruce A. “Wicca: A Neopagan, Earth-Centered Religion.”http://www.religioustolerance.org/witchcra.htm.