A cult typically refers to a group bound by a shared, often extreme, set of beliefs and practices. Frequently, these beliefs revolve around an exaggerated focus on religious or cultural ideals, elevating one particular notion above all others. The critical distinction between cults and conventional religions often lies in the cult’s tendency towards isolation and the control over members’ freedom to leave. Cults generally revolve around a charismatic leader who uses their influence to attract followers, enforce obedience, and sustain a structure of control.
Many notorious cults emerged during the 1970s and 1980s, a period known as the “Satanic Panic,” marked by fears of an underlying spiritual conflict within society. Even in modern times, various lesser-known groups might fit the profile of a cult.
Here are some obscure groups that raise such concerns:
The Modern Mystery School: A Deep Dive into Esoteric Enigma
The Modern Mystery School (MMS) is an organization that positions itself as a contemporary revival of ancient mystery schools, tracing its roots back to a supposed lineage from King Solomon. Established in 1997, it’s a group that claims to offer teachings and initiations into various esoteric and metaphysical practices aimed at personal empowerment, spiritual growth, and ultimately, the creation of world peace.
The Founder:
Gudni Gudnason, often referred to as “Founder Gudni” or “Hierophant,” is the Icelandic native who brought MMS to the public eye. Gudnason claims to be a high-level initiate in this lineage, holding keys to ancient wisdom and practices. He’s portrayed as a multifaceted individual, not just a spiritual leader but also an artist, producer, and poet, embodying the school’s philosophy of living a multi-dimensional life.
Beliefs:
MMS believes in the potential of all humans to achieve spiritual enlightenment and live in harmony with their true purpose. Here are some key beliefs and practices:
Empowerment Through Initiation: They offer various initiations, like the “Empower Thyself” program, which are said to fundamentally change one’s life by connecting them with their higher self.
Life Activation: A signature service where they claim to activate dormant DNA strands to enhance spiritual awareness and life energy.
Magick and Ritual: Practices involve the use of what they call “magick” for personal and universal transformation, including rituals that aim to channel energies for peace and healing.
Kabbalah and Alchemy: Teachings include ancient Kabbalistic wisdom and alchemical practices, not in the traditional chemical sense but as a metaphor for personal transformation.
Service to Humanity: A core belief is that personal growth should lead to acts of service, promoting a vision of world peace through individual enlightenment.
Celebrity Involvement:
There’s been buzz around Shawn Mendes being linked to MMS, though he has not confirmed any involvement. However, the rumor mill started spinning when he was seen with individuals connected to the school and engaging in activities that align with MMS practices, like breathwork on a beach with his then-partner, Charlie Travers, who has ties to the school.
The Controversy:
MMS has not been without its critics. Some ex-members describe it as a cult-like organization with practices of financial exploitation and, in some cases, sexual coercion. There have been allegations of it functioning like a multi-level marketing scheme, where advancement within the school requires significant financial investment in courses and initiations.
However, others defend MMS, attributing their personal growth and spiritual awakening to the teachings. They see it not as a cult but as a legitimate path to self-discovery and empowerment. The Modern Mystery School stands as a curious blend of ancient mysticism repackaged for modern seekers. Its allure lies in the promise of tapping into ancient wisdom for personal transformation. Yet, like any organization dealing with the esoteric, it walks a fine line between spiritual community and what some might label as cult-like behavior. Whether it’s a path to enlightenment or a costly rabbit hole, the truth, as with all things mysterious, seems to lie in the eye of the beholder.
The Orgonite Society: Crystals, Celebrities, and Cosmic Energy
The Orgonite Society isn’t your run-of-the-mill cult; it’s more of a modern, loosely organized group that’s caught the eye of both spiritual enthusiasts and skeptics alike. It orbits around the concept of “Orgonite,” a material believed to balance the energy of the planet, “Gaia,” by transmuting negative energy into positive.
The Founder:
While the Orgonite Society doesn’t have a singular, charismatic leader like many traditional cults, its principles are rooted in the work of Wilhelm Reich, an Austrian psychoanalyst from the 20th century. Reich developed the concept of “orgone energy,” which he claimed was a universal life force. The society took this and ran with it, but the modern iteration is more a collective of individuals rather than a top-down organization.
Beliefs:
The core belief of the Orgonite Society revolves around:
Orgone Energy: They believe in this life energy, akin to chi, prana, or the ether of ancient philosophies, which can be manipulated by Orgonite to improve health, environment, and personal well-being.
Crafting Orgonite: The society encourages the creation of Orgonite, typically made from a mix of resin, metal shavings, and crystals. They claim this concoction can neutralize electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs), promote healing, and even enhance meditation or sleep quality.
Gaia’s Balance: There’s a strong environmental aspect, with the belief that placing Orgonite in various locations can help heal the Earth by balancing its energy fields.
Self-Empowerment: Beyond the physical, there’s an emphasis on personal growth, spiritual awakening, and the power of intention in using Orgonite.
Celebrity Involvement:
The Orgonite Society gained some notoriety when young Hollywood stars Jaden Smith and Willow Smith (children of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith) were rumored to be involved. In 2014, they were seen making and promoting Orgonite, even branding themselves part of “A Secret Society Of Individuals Who Create And Place Orgonite To Balance Gaia’s Energies.” There were also whispers of Kylie Jenner dabbling in this energy-balancing practice, with her and Jaden sharing photos of their orgonite creations on social media.
The Controversy:
While the Orgonite Society isn’t typically viewed as a “cult” in the classical sense, it’s not without its controversies:
Scientific Skepticism: Mainstream science largely dismisses the claims about Orgonite’s effects, viewing it as pseudoscience. There’s no empirical evidence supporting the energy transmutation claims.
Cultural Appropriation: Some critics argue that the appropriation of terms like ‘Gaia’ and the blending of various spiritual practices into a new-age concoction can be seen as a form of cultural appropriation.
Commercialization: The DIY aspect of Orgonite has led to a market where some see financial exploitation, with expensive workshops and products sold under the guise of spiritual enlightenment.
The Orgonite Society represents a curious intersection of modern celebrity culture, new-age spirituality, and the human desire to connect with something larger than oneself. Whether it’s a genuine movement for healing and environmental awareness or a trend fueled by celebrity endorsement, it’s certainly captured the imagination of some in today’s spiritual marketplace.
Children of God: From Love to Scandal
The Children of God, later renamed The Family International, was one of the most notorious cults of the 20th century, known for its radical practices and the controversies that followed. Originating in the late 1960s amidst the hippie counterculture, it promised love, peace, and salvation but became infamous for child abuse, sexual exploitation, and apocalyptic prophecies.
The Founder:
David Brandt Berg, often simply known as “Moses David” or “Father David,” was the charismatic leader behind Children of God. Berg, a former Christian minister, broke away from traditional Christianity to start what he envisioned as a revolutionary Christian movement. His teachings combined elements of Christianity with free love and apocalyptic warnings, attracting thousands initially with its utopian promise.
Beliefs:
The Children of God was built on several core beliefs and practices, many of which evolved over time but include:
Apocalypticism: Berg preached that the end times were near, urging members to prepare for the Second Coming of Christ by living communally and proselytizing aggressively.
Free Love: One of the most controversial aspects was Berg’s doctrine of “free love” which extended to “flirty fishing,” where women were encouraged to use sex to recruit new members, under the guise of spreading God’s love.
Child Rearing: Children were raised communally, often separated from their parents, with an emphasis on early indoctrination into the group’s beliefs. This practice led to numerous allegations of child abuse.
Anti-Materialism: Members were expected to live simply, often begging for food and living off donations, reflecting a disdain for the materialistic “System” outside the cult.
Prophecies and Writings: Berg communicated with his followers primarily through “Mo Letters,” which became quasi-scriptural texts, mixing religious teachings with personal directives.
Celebrity Involvement:
Several high-profile individuals spent part of their childhood in the Children of God:
Joaquin Phoenix and his siblings, including the late River Phoenix, were members until their parents left when Joaquin was around three years old. Their departure was reportedly due to the introduction of “flirty fishing” practices.
Rose McGowan also spent her early years in the cult. Her family left when she was nine, after Berg began advocating child-adult sexual relations, which was a step too far for her father.
The Controversy:
The Children of God attracted significant negative attention for:
Sexual Abuse: Numerous former members have come forward with accounts of sexual abuse, including child molestation, which were allegedly condoned or even encouraged by the leadership.
Child Abduction and Custody Battles: There were incidents where children were kidnapped by members to prevent them from leaving the cult.
Legal Actions: Investigations by law enforcement agencies in multiple countries led to some convictions, though the group often managed to rebrand or relocate to avoid sustained legal scrutiny.
The Legacy:
After Berg’s death in 1994, the group continued under the leadership of his wife, Karen Zerby, with a series of name changes to distance from its scandalous past. Today, under The Family International, it claims to have reformed many of its practices, though its history casts a long shadow.
The stories of those who escaped, like Joaquin Phoenix and Rose McGowan, serve as poignant reminders of the dangers of charismatic leadership and the vulnerability of those seeking community or spiritual fulfillment.
The Seaside Sect: Scandal at the Shoreline
The Seaside Sect, unofficially named due to its coastal locations, was a secretive and scandalous polygamist group that operated in Australia from the 1970s until its collapse in the early 1990s. It’s a tale of spiritual deception, sexual abuse, and the dark underbelly of communal living.
The Founder:
Alistah Laishkochav, originally named Ian Lowe, was a New Zealand-born ex-policeman who migrated to Australia in the 1960s. Transforming himself into a spiritual leader, Laishkochav claimed to be a reincarnation of Jesus Christ, amassing a following through his charismatic teachings and promises of salvation. His polygamous practices were central to his control over the sect.
Beliefs:
The Seaside Sect’s beliefs were a bizarre concoction:
Polygamy: Laishkochav had nine wives, whom he claimed were necessary for him to fulfill his divine role, likening himself to King Solomon.
Spiritual Superiority: He preached that he was the chosen one to lead humanity to salvation, mixing elements of Christianity, Judaism, and indigenous beliefs to justify his lifestyle and authority.
Communal Living: Members lived together in what was supposed to be a utopian community, but in reality, was a tightly controlled environment where Laishkochav’s word was law.
End Times Prophecy: Like many cult leaders, he predicted apocalyptic events, reinforcing his followers’ dependence on him for spiritual guidance.
Isolationism: The sect was isolated, both physically by choosing remote locations like Bells Beach and Byron Bay, and ideologically, cutting off members from the outside world to maintain control.
Celebrity Involvement:
The most notable connection to mainstream culture was Keira Maguire, an Australian reality TV star known from “The Bachelor” and “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” Maguire was born into the sect, with her mother being one of Laishkochav’s nine wives. She left at a young age, but her connection to the group was revealed years later, shedding light on her unusual upbringing.
The Controversy:
The Seaside Sect’s dark side came to light through:
Child Abuse: Laishkochav was convicted in 2000 of 21 counts of child sex offenses, including the sexual assault of children under his care. His crimes were committed under the guise of spiritual guidance, leading to his imprisonment.
Exploitation: Members, particularly women and children, were exploited sexually and financially, living under harsh and restrictive conditions.
Community Reaction: Once the abuses were exposed, there was a significant backlash, leading to the sect’s dissolution and Laishkochav’s eventual death in prison in 2012.
The Legacy:
The Seaside Sect serves as a grim example of how charismatic leaders can manipulate spiritual beliefs for personal gain and control. Keira Maguire’s public recounting of her childhood in the sect brought much-needed attention to the survivors’ stories, highlighting the importance of vigilance against such groups.
The saga of The Seaside Sect is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power within religious or spiritual communities, especially when they operate in the shadows of societal oversight.
Breatharianism: The Cult That Lives on Air
Breatharianism, or “Inedia,” is less a traditional cult with a set structure and more a pseudoscientific belief system where followers claim they can live without food or water, surviving on prana (life force) from the air and sun. It’s one of the most bizarre and dangerous ideologies to emerge from the New Age movement.
The Founder:
While Breatharianism has roots in various spiritual practices, the modern movement was notably popularized by Wiley Brooks, an American who claimed in the 1980s to have lived without food for 19 years. However, he was later caught eating, which led to his credibility being questioned. Another prominent figure is Jasmuheen (born Ellen Greve), an Australian who has been a leading advocate since the 1990s, despite her own failed attempts under scrutiny.
Beliefs:
The core beliefs of Breatharianism include:
Living on Light: The central tenet is that humans can subsist solely on prana, which they absorb through breathing and sunlight exposure. This is often described as “sungazing” or “pranic nourishment.”
Fasting for Enlightenment: Fasting is not just about physical health but is seen as a path to spiritual enlightenment and higher consciousness.
Detoxification: Breatharians believe that by not eating, the body detoxifies, leading to a purer state of being.
Energy Over Matter: They advocate for the idea that the body can convert energy directly into sustenance, bypassing the need for physical food or water.
Celebrity Involvement:
One of the most surprising celebrity links to Breatharianism was Michelle Pfeiffer. Early in her career, before becoming a major Hollywood star, she briefly fell under the influence of what she later described as a “cult” that practiced Breatharianism. In a 2013 interview with The Sunday Telegraph, Pfeiffer spoke about how she was saved from this group by her then-husband, Peter Horton, who was researching cults for a film. She described the group as “very controlling” and “thoroughly brainwashing” her.
The Controversy:
Breatharianism has been met with severe criticism and tragedy:
Health Risks: Several followers have died from starvation or dehydration trying to live without food or water, demonstrating the lethal nature of these beliefs.
Scientific Rejection: The scientific community unanimously rejects Breatharian claims, highlighting that humans cannot survive without nutrients from food and hydration from water.
Exposed Frauds: Both Brooks and Jasmuheen have been caught or shown to not adhere strictly to their teachings, with evidence of eating food during supposed fasts.
Cult-like Practices: While not a structured cult, the practices of some Breatharian groups have cult-like elements, including the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking spiritual or physical transformation.
The Legacy:
Breatharianism remains a fringe belief, largely discredited but still occasionally resurfacing in wellness or spiritual circles. It serves as a stark warning about the dangers of pseudoscience and the potential for spiritual beliefs to turn deadly. Michelle Pfeiffer’s revelation brought much-needed attention to how even the most rational individuals can be swayed by charismatic teachings.
Full Circle: From Hollywood to High Vibrations
Full Circle wasn’t your typical cult; it was more of a spiritual community that captured the imagination of Los Angeles’ bohemian and celebrity circles in the mid-2010s. Founded in Venice, California, it was known for its eclectic blend of spirituality, art, and community events, all centered around an old Hare Krishna temple dubbed the “Rose Temple.”
The Founder:
Andrew Keegan, best known for his roles in “10 Things I Hate About You” and “7th Heaven,” was instrumental in starting Full Circle. After experiencing what he described as a spiritual awakening following a mugging in 2011, Keegan sought to create a space for communal growth and spiritual exploration, leading to the establishment of Full Circle.
Beliefs:
Full Circle’s ethos was somewhat nebulous, focusing more on the experience than on strict doctrine:
Community and Spirituality: The core belief was in fostering a community where people could explore spirituality, creativity, and wellness together. Events included meditation, yoga, art, and music.
Synchronicity and Energy: Keegan was fascinated by synchronicity, the belief that meaningful coincidences are more than chance. The group also embraced the use of crystals for their supposed energetic properties.
Non-Denominational: It was promoted as a place where people from all walks of life could come together, without adherence to any one religion or spiritual path.
Healing and Transformation: Through various workshops and ceremonies, the aim was personal transformation and communal healing, often using unconventional methods like sacred cacao ceremonies.
Celebrity Involvement:
While Keegan himself is a celebrity, Full Circle attracted a range of Hollywood figures looking for spiritual or social connections. However, specific names often floated in discussions about the group were more speculative or associated through their participation in events rather than deep involvement. The allure was more about the celebrity of the founder rather than high-profile members.
The Controversy:
Full Circle stirred controversy and intrigue:
Cult Accusations: Media outlets, including Vice, labeled it a cult due to its unconventional practices and Keegan’s central role, though he and members rejected this label, emphasizing its community-centered nature.
Legal Issues: In 2015, Full Circle faced legal action when it was raided for unlicensed distribution of kombucha, leading to misdemeanor charges for selling alcohol without a permit.
Financial Struggles: The group attempted crowdfunding to keep the Rose Temple open but eventually had to close its doors in 2017, unable to sustain operations amidst rising real estate costs and media scrutiny.
The Legacy:
Full Circle serves as a curious footnote in Hollywood’s history with spirituality. It highlights the thin line between community, spirituality, and what can be perceived or misconstrued as cult-like behavior. While short-lived, it’s remembered for its attempt to fuse art, spirituality, and celebrity culture into something transformative, though perhaps more in the realm of a cultural experiment than a lasting spiritual movement.
The Big House Family: A Tale of Manipulation and Recovery
The Big House Family is less known to the broader public, but it gained significant attention through the experiences of one of its former members, actress Bethany Joy Lenz. Operating under the guise of a Christian Bible study group, it evolved into what Lenz described as an “abusive, high-demand group” or cult, based in the Pacific Northwest.
The Founder:
While not widely publicized, the central figure behind The Big House Family was known as “Papa” Mike Galeotti, the father-in-law of Bethany Joy Lenz during her time in the group. Mike Galeotti was portrayed as a domineering minister who led the church covenant with an iron fist, though much of the personal details about him remain obscured by the veil of the organization.
Beliefs:
The Big House Family’s beliefs were a mix of traditional Christianity with manipulative control tactics:
Christian Covenant: At its core, it operated under the pretense of a church covenant, emphasizing communal living and spiritual guidance.
Manipulation and Control: Members were subjected to what Lenz described as “Maoist struggle session”-inspired meetings, where criticism and self-criticism were used to keep members in line.
Isolation: There was a strong emphasis on severing ties with the outside world, including family, to maintain control over members’ lives.
Financial Exploitation: Lenz revealed that millions of her income were siphoned off by the group’s leadership.
Forced Marriage: Lenz was convinced to marry Galeotti’s son, further entrenching her within the group’s dynamics.
Celebrity Involvement:
Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her role as Haley James Scott on “One Tree Hill,” was the most notable celebrity involved with The Big House Family. She joined around 2005, remaining a member for about ten years, until she decided to leave in 2012 after the birth of her daughter, Maria Rose, to protect her from the same fate.
The Controversy:
The Big House Family came to public scrutiny through:
Lenz’s Revelations: Her candid discussions on her podcast “Drama Queens” and in her memoir “Dinner for Vampires” brought light to the manipulative practices within the group, including emotional, financial, and spiritual abuse.
Family Reactions: The Galeotti family, particularly Mike and his wife, vehemently denied Lenz’s allegations, painting them as attempts to gain publicity for her book.
Legal and Social Implications: While no formal legal actions against the group have been widely reported, Lenz’s narrative has sparked a conversation about the accountability of such organizations.
The Legacy:
The Big House Family’s story, primarily through Lenz’s lens, serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of charismatic leaders and the vulnerability of individuals seeking community and spiritual fulfillment. It underscores the importance of critical thinking and the support needed to recover from such experiences. Lenz’s journey from member to critic is a testament to the resilience one can find in leaving behind an abusive past.
🚨🚨🚨Engaging with any organization, particularly those displaying potential cult-like behaviors, requires extreme caution. Here are critical aspects to evaluate before involvement:
Transparency and Criticism: Pay close attention to how the group responds to criticism or questioning. Healthy groups welcome constructive feedback and encourage open dialogue. If dissent is stifled or punished, it’s a red flag.
Freedom to Leave: One of the most telling signs of cult behavior is the difficulty members face when trying to leave. Look for clear signs that members can disengage at any time without fear of retribution, social ostracism, or psychological manipulation.
Leadership Control: Be wary of leaders who demand absolute loyalty or obedience. Charismatic leaders who place themselves above accountability or who require members to follow without question often foster environments ripe for abuse.
Isolation Techniques: Cults often isolate members from their previous social networks, family, or the broader society to maintain control. If you notice a group encouraging or enforcing separation from loved ones, this is a significant warning sign.
Financial Exploitation: Watch out for groups that demand significant financial contributions or control over members’ finances. This can be a method of control and can lead to personal and economic harm.
Psychological Manipulation: Be alert for tactics like love bombing (overwhelming newcomers with affection), gaslighting (making members doubt their perceptions), or sleep deprivation and other forms of control over members’ lives.
Promises of Special Enlightenment: Be skeptical of groups that promise extraordinary personal transformation, spiritual enlightenment, or salvation that can only be achieved through exclusive membership or adherence to their specific doctrines.
Critical Awareness is Your Shield: Always approach new groups with a critical eye. Educate yourself on the signs of cult behavior. Talk to former members, if possible, to get an outside perspective. Remember, healthy communities encourage growth, autonomy, and connections beyond the group. If you feel pressured, or manipulated, or if your intuition tells you something is off, trust your instincts and seek advice or help from trusted sources outside the group.
Your well-being, both mental and physical, should never be compromised for the sake of belonging to any group. If you find yourself questioning the integrity or intentions of an organization, it might be best to step back and reassess your involvement.