The occult

What is the difference between the words “Cult” and “Occult”? And what is anti-occult and how is it based in religion?

Dictionary meaning Oc•cult 1. of or pertaining to any system claiming use or knowledge of secret or supernatural powers or agencies. 2. beyond ordinary knowledge or understanding. 3. secrecy; disclosed or communicated only to the initiated.

The words “cult” and “occult” are popular terms that should not be confused with one another. So, what is the difference between them?

CULT AND OCCULT- Cult The term “cult” is typically used by the media to describe spiritual or semi-religious groups whose members are willingly (mind) controlled in almost every single respect by a single individual.

CULT AND OCCULT- OCCULT In theological sense of the word, however, the word “cult” takes on a wider meaning. Not only can groups be considered cultic in the sociological sense, groups may be deemed cultic in a theological sense as well. What I mean is that groups which deny foundational doctrines such as: there is only one God who created everything are cults in a theological sense. Now, while the word “cult” is always used with reference to a particular group, the word “occult” is typically associated with esoteric and mystical practices. It deals with hidden or secretive means to attain personal power, and is characterized by a reliance on the supernatural to achieve its ends. The occult includes such practices as fortunetelling, witchcraft, or trance-channeling. Additionally, tarot cards, crystal balls, and horoscopes number among the many tools which are used by occultists. Clearly, the occult has pacts directly with demonic forces.

CULT AND OCCULT- differences However, not all cults indulge in the occult. For example, it would be unfair to link religious groups that are misinformed to the occult. Now, while a clear distinction should be drawn between the terms “cult” and “occult,” we must keep in mind that they are both connected with teachings which oppose the Word of God. Usually, though, a cult is more narrowly defined, and the word refers to an unorthodox sect whose members distort the original doctrines of the religion. The term sect is used in a negative way to imply the broken-off group follows a more negative path than the original.

A cult image is a human-made image that is revered or worshipped for the idol, spirit or daemon that it embodies or represents; Idolatry. Cultus, the outward practices of a cult, often centers upon the treatment of cult images, which may be dressed, fed or paraded, etc. Cult images cover a wider range of all types of images made with a spiritual purpose, subject, or connection. In many contexts "cult image" specifically means the most important image in a temple, kept in an inner space, as opposed to what may be many other images decorating the temple.

CULT AND OCCULT- Conclusion It should be clearly noted here that there is some cross-over between cults and the occult in that some cults, such as the Synagogue of Satan are clearly involved with occult practices. The word occult refers to a group that worships Satan or a human-made image that is revered or worshipped for the idol, spirit or daemon that it embodies or represents, they sacrifice lives for Satan, or take part in evil, bizarre, and pagan rituals. Occult is by its definition evil.

Anti-Masonry, anti-illuminati and anti-occult The Freemasons (or just "Masons," and sometimes the Masonic Order) are a society of secrets and deception. Many religions condemn Freemasonry, they know its ideals to be irreligious, or that it constitutes an occult group and keeps this secret from the public. Freemasonry is a secularizing force that opposes religion while pleading for freedom of religion. They use mind control to cause divorces. Freemasonry takes part in anti-religious practices and political and social agitation. Mainly in France, Italy and the German states in the 18th and early 19th century through mind control they have instigated wars. And the Illuminati joined forces with Freemasonry in the late 19th century.

They currently claim a membership of about 6 million worldwide.

Religion Monotheism has been defined as the belief in the existence of one God. As of the early twenty-first century, the majority of the world's population (54% or 3.8 billion people) consider themselves as monotheists. I believe in one God.