Coëmgenu wrote: ↑Thu Jun 03, 2021 12:57 pm
The usage of "cult" that SteRo is pulling out of the dictionary, particularly usage 3 from the quoted material, is an older conservative and neutral sense of cult. "The Cult of the Nazarene" for instance, in this usage, refers to Christianity before it had doctrines and was systematic. At the cult of the Nazarene stage, a theorized stage of Christianity, it was just a loose bunch of Jesus-enthusiasts with little organization who had "agape meals," a prototype eucharist, and met in gatherings in their houses rather than public buildings.
I agree, the definition SteRo quoted looks like an older definition. I don't doubt that this definition exists, but just think it's dated. A better definition would be to focus on the characteristics of a cult, including:
1. Devotion to the leader, usually the founder of the movement, someone who is currently alive. If the movement survives the death of the leader/founder, it could transition to genuine religion status.
2. Only teachings and books from the leader are allowed, no outside reading accepted.
3. Controlling personal behaviors of the adherents including the leader choosing your spouse, living accommodations, etc.
4. Heavy emphasis on proselytizing.
5. The leader keeps his distance and only comes out occasionally to keep up the mystique about him and to create anticipation and excitement in the devotees.
6. Many times, as part of being accepted into the group, one must relinquish all money and possessions to the group.
Using my definition above, Buddhism doesn't fit any of the characteristics. However, there could be individual Buddhist groups that have moved in this direction.