Scientology has its own structure of discipline. It’s a meticulously managed way of life, with expectations that can feel more like marching orders than mere guidelines. Members, regardless of fame or rank, are expected to uphold these rules with precision (and even a superstar like Tom Cruise is not an exception to the rules).
Some of these rules can be surprising, but they’re non-negotiable. Let’s pull back the curtain.
You Must Obey Hubbard’s Teachings Exactly
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In Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard’s writings are treated like scripture. Followers must adhere to his teachings exactly, and no personal interpretation is allowed. Changing or reworking his methods, known as “squirreling,” is strictly forbidden. They believe true spiritual progress only comes from following his rules to the letter.
No Intimacy Before Church-Sanctioned Marriage
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In Scientology’s Sea Org, love doesn’t bloom in the wild. You can’t just fall head over heels and get intimate. Couples must wed to stay in good standing. Any romantic involvement outside of marriage is considered misconduct and can lead to punishment, reassignment, or worse. Love here comes with strict rules.
Silence During Childbirth Is Mandatory
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No cheering, no shouting, no “you’ve got this!”—Scientology mandates a silent birth. Mothers are expected to deliver the child without making unnecessary noise. The rationale is that early trauma, including loud voices during birth, could harm a newborn’s spiritual well-being. Medical staff and partners are also instructed to maintain verbal silence throughout.
Children Are Treated as Fully Responsible Adults
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Forget the idea of childhood as a protected phase. In Scientology, children are seen as ancient souls inhabiting small bodies, which means they’re expected to act accordingly. That translates to responsibility, discipline, and sometimes heavy duties well beyond what most would consider age-appropriate. Childhood innocence is not really a focus here.
The Supreme Goal Is “Clearing the Planet”
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The ultimate purpose of Scientology is to create a world where everyone is “Clear”—free of reactive minds and engrams. Members are expected to contribute to this mission by recruiting others, donating to expansion efforts, and becoming examples of Hubbard’s teachings in action.
Information From Outside the Church Is Prohibited
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Members are warned against reading or viewing material from non-Scientology sources. News articles, critical websites, or even casual conversations can trigger consequences. Anyone who engages with external information must confess the act to their auditor. The Church believes outside influence can compromise spiritual integrity.
All Members Are Under Constant Observation
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Ever had the feeling you were being watched? In some Scientology centers, that’s not just a feeling. From surveillance cameras to restricted internet use, members operate under a watchful eye. Even the rooms where personal spiritual counseling happens are reportedly monitored. Privacy isn’t really part of the package.
The Elite Must Sign a Billion-Year Pledge
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The Sea Organization, a highly committed division of Scientology, requires new members to sign a billion-year contract. The agreement symbolizes a commitment across future lifetimes. In practice, it also involves full-time labor, submission to Church authority, and relinquishing many personal freedoms indefinitely. It’s a spiritual boot camp forever.
Contact With Former Members Is Forbidden
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The moment someone exits Scientology and speaks out, they’re labeled a “suppressive person.” For those still inside the Church, that label can turn a loved one into a ghost. This enforced “disconnection” splits families and ends friendships, no matter how close you once were.
Doubt Is Met With Grueling Questioning
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Questioning your beliefs will trigger a “security check,” where members are grilled—sometimes for hours—about their loyalty, using an e-meter to detect spiritual discord. These sessions aren’t free, by the way. You pay for the privilege of being questioned, which makes losing faith not just stressful but expensive.
Advanced Members Live Aboard a Church-Operated Ship
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High-level Scientologists don’t always learn their secrets on land. The Freewinds, a Church-owned cruise ship, hosts advanced courses in the middle of the ocean. Attendees live aboard for weeks, sometimes months. The ship is pitched as a floating oasis of enlightenment, though ex-members describe it more like an isolated, high-security retreat.
Enemies of the Church Are Targeted Under “Fair Game”
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If you criticize Scientology publicly, you might find yourself labeled as “Fair Game.” That’s not just an insult—it’s a policy. The Church has historically claimed the right to go after enemies using legal action, smear campaigns, and surveillance. Once someone is deemed a threat to Scientology, there are few boundaries in how the Church will respond.
There Are Steep Costs to Stay In Good Standing
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Mandatory classes, auditing sessions, and materials are expensive. A single session can cost over $2,000, and members are expected to purchase extensive writings and recordings. These materials are frequently updated, meaning ongoing costs for long-time adherents.
Participation Is Constant and Exhaustive
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This isn’t a Sunday service kind of religion. Scientology demands full participation with daily classes, long study hours, regular auditing, and near-constant involvement. The expectation is not “show up when you can.” It’s: live, breathe, and budget for Scientology like it’s your full-time job. Because for many, it is.
You Must Believe in Immortal Life and Past Lives
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Scientology teaches that each person is a thetan who has lived for trillions of years. Accepting the reality of past lives and spiritual reincarnation is a central doctrine. Rejecting this belief would make you incompatible with core Church teachings.
