Other religions are 100% clear and transparent about their beliefs and don’t require a financial sacrifice to know what the deal is. Rich or poor, anyone can be a Jew, Christian, Muslim or Buddhist.
In Scientology, it’s considered a cult because it’s deceptive, doesn’t show itself as a religion at the lowest levels and only allows you access to deeper secrets to the higher levels you get in the organization. And you can only get to these levels by taking classes and paying through the nose.
Furthermore when you learn these “truths” you are not allowed to share them with others. But rather use that knowledge to con people out of finances and family
If Scientology came straight out with their sci-fi beliefs that some crazy space emperor named Xenu did what he did and what scientologists are here for is to clear you of these “Thetans”, then they would be more accepted. But they don’t. Most people at the lowest level of Scientology see it as an organized form of “self-help” and don’t get it. And most only “get it” when it’s too late, they are financially drained, have lost outside non-Scientology connections to the world and then have no choice but continue down the path.
You need to think about this. If you were a valid religion and tons of “crazy” claims were made against you, would your first response to be to do what Scientology does: Destroy their enemies financially and emotionally? Wouldn’t it make more sense to explain who you are and then let the truth come through so it can explain itself?
— Jack 