Do Scientologists Believe in Afterlife?
Scientology, a religion founded by L. Ron Hubbard in the 1950s, has gained a significant following worldwide. However, one question that often arises is whether Scientologists believe in an afterlife. Understanding this belief requires an exploration of the core tenets of Scientology and its views on the human soul and existence.
Scientology’s View on the Soul
At the heart of Scientology is the belief in the eternal nature of the soul, known as the Thetan. According to Scientology teachings, the Thetan is the immortal, spiritual being that exists beyond the physical body. This concept suggests that the Thetan has an existence that transcends the physical realm, which implies a form of afterlife.
Afterlife in Scientology
While Scientology does not focus extensively on the afterlife, it does acknowledge the possibility of a continued existence after death. Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, stated that the Thetan survives physical death and can continue to progress through various levels of existence. This progression is known as “auditing,” a process that aims to clear the Thetan of past traumas and experiences.
Levels of Existence
In Scientology, the Thetan is believed to move through different levels of existence, including MEST (Material Energy, Space, Time), which is the physical universe. The afterlife, in a sense, is considered to be a realm beyond MEST where the Thetan continues to evolve. This realm is often referred to as “the spiritual world” or “the afterlife.”
Scientology’s Approach to Afterlife Beliefs
It is important to note that Scientology does not emphasize the afterlife as a central aspect of its faith. Instead, the focus is on improving the individual’s current life and helping them reach their full potential as a Thetan. The afterlife is more of a backdrop to the spiritual growth and development that occurs during one’s life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Scientology does not delve deeply into the specifics of the afterlife, it does acknowledge the existence of a continued existence beyond physical death. The Thetan’s eternal nature and its progression through various levels of existence suggest that Scientology does believe in some form of afterlife. However, this belief is not a central focus of the religion, and the emphasis remains on personal growth and development in the present life.
