What is the most expensive religion?

Question

My vote goes to scientology, since the Christian churches I have been to, do not require money for membership.

Answer 1

Definitely Scientology. While most churches I've been to have a collection, and some are more aggressive than others, Scientology is the only one I know of that has actual prices for followers to pay in order to advance.

Answer 2

Definitely Scientology.

L. Ron Hubbard, the science fiction writer and “prophet” of Scientology, has been quoted as saying: "Writing for a penny a word is ridiculous. If a man really wants to make a million dollars, the best way would be to start his own religion" http://lisatrust.freewinds.cx/scientology/hubbard.htm

The cult is mostly a high powered scam. It pays members 10% commissions, called FSM (Field Staff Member) commissions, for bringing in new recruits who take a course or get counseling, so Scientology members routinely try to "sell" Scientology to others.

The new members then, in turn, are required to pay vast amounts of money to the "church" in order to receive "auditing", courses, literature, take tests, retake tests, etc. Here is a run-down of all the costs involved with Scientology membership: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientology_as_a_business#Costs
According to CONSERVATIVE estimates, the total price for auditing services ALONE, starting as a completely new preclear and going all the way to the highest level in the organization ("OT 8") is $360,000.00

Here is testimony from a woman who had been involved in exposing Scientology and other cults for most of her adult life: http://www.clambake.org/archive/books/tsos/sos-19.html

Even more proof that Scientology is out for your money... here is Hubbard discussing turning the business of Scientology into a "religion" for profit:

"I am not quite sure what we would call the place - probably not a clinic - but I am sure that it ought to be a company, independent of the HAS (Hubbard Association of Scientologists) but fed by the HAS. We don't want a clinic. We want one in operation but not in name. Perhaps we could call it a Spiritual Guidance Center. Think up its name, will you. ... It is a problem of practical business. I await your reaction on the religion angle." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientology_controversy#L._Ron_Hubbard_and_starting_a_religion_for_money

Answer 3

i think i agree with you now that i read your additional detail.
when people say that Secret societies have more money than God, I think they assume God's church is the catholic church, but the skull and bones and the order of the DRAGON have the most money on earth.
The only thing i can see is that Gods kingdom is based ON money. so almost all religions have more money than god. despite the fact that God owns every living soul and the whole earth.
however scientology has peaked a few headlines which mention that a person with the most money can buy greater authority in their church.

Answer 4

I've heard that Kabala is quite expensive, not only for the texts, but also classes and just giving money to the center. I had a friend here in NYC who loved the beauty of the religion but ended up leaving due to the pressure she felt to buy things, and contribute. I'm sure others have had better experiences, and this comment ISN'T coming from an anti-semitic stance. Just one friends experiece.

Answer 5

Christianity is free since Jesus Christ payed the penalty for sin while Scientology is expensive sin it will come at the price of the soul.

Answer 6

Yes-SCIENTOLOGY!

http://theunfunnytruth.ytmnd.com/

Answer 7

Eckankar is sort of the poor man's Scientology. It also charges but probably not as much. My vote is for Scientology.

Answer 8

Many organized churches require contributions in order to maintain the group and fund their stability. This amount varies depending on many factors such as leader, economy, and individual cities. Religion should be based upon leading people into a way of life based on faith. But this can easily be manipulated and corrupted.

Answer 9

Scientology for sure! Actually, I think being wealthy is mandatory for membership, along with ignorance and being very superficial.

Answer 10

I agree! Scientology seems to be the most expensive.