XPost: alt.religion.eckankar, alt.meditation.shabda
From: emptyroom@emptyroom.emptyroom
On 5 May 2005 18:08:59 -0700, "lackpurity" wrote:
>
>MICHAEL TURNER wrote:
>> Mr. Martin,
>>
>> There is a huge difference between a spiritual study group and a
>cult.
>
>MM:
>This is contingent on the definitions. A spiritual study group could
>have a charismatic leader and be considered a cult, too. They would be
>the same, in that case. Now, maybe you have certain SET definitions in
>your own mind? Maybe your definitions wouldn't be congruent with mine?
> That's entirely possible.
It actually does depend on which connotation of the word 'cult' you
are using. It looks like you are both just using different connotations
of the word. Definitions 1, 4, and 5 below have negative connotations,
while definitions 2, 3, and 6 do not.
From dcitionry.com:
cult
n.
1. a - A religion or religious sect generally considered to be extremist or
false,
with its followers often living in an unconventional manner under the
guidance of an authoritarian, charismatic leader.
b - The followers of such a religion or sect.
2. A system or community of religious worship and ritual.
3. The formal means of expressing religious reverence; religious ceremony
and ritual.
4. A usually nonscientific method or regimen claimed by its originator to
have
exclusive or exceptional power in curing a particular disease.
5. a - Obsessive, especially faddish, devotion to or veneration for a person,
principle, or thing.
b - The object of such devotion.
6. An exclusive group of persons sharing an esoteric, usually artistic or
intellectual interest.
Peaceful thoughts and pleasant dreams,
empty room - 975th Living Truth Master (on probation)
--- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05
* Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)
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