Scientologists believe that humans are immortal spiritual beings called thetans, who have lived through countless past lives, including lives on other planets. The thetan is the true self, distinct from the physical body and mind, and is believed to possess infinite abilities that are often forgotten or suppressed
. Central to Scientology is the concept that the human mind has a "reactive mind" that stores traumatic memories called engrams, which negatively affect a person's behavior and well-being. Through a process called auditing, which uses a device called an E-meter, Scientologists aim to identify and clear these engrams to restore the thetan’s true abilities and achieve a spiritual state known as "clear"
. Scientology teaches reincarnation, where the thetan moves on to inhabit new bodies after death, continuing a cycle of life without a final salvation or damnation. The ultimate goal is spiritual freedom and self-realization, reclaiming one’s true nature and powers, including control over life, matter, energy, space, and time
. The religion describes itself as a blend of science and spirituality, emphasizing that its teachings are derived from research and experimentation rather than revelation. It aims to improve the spiritual condition of individuals and promote survival, brotherhood, and higher spiritual awareness
. In summary, Scientologists believe:
- Humans are immortal spiritual beings (thetans) trapped in physical bodies.
- The mind holds traumatic engrams that cloud true self-awareness.
- Auditing clears these engrams to restore spiritual abilities.
- Reincarnation is a continuous process of spiritual evolution.
- The goal is to realize one’s true spiritual nature and abilities
