What Is the Cult and Occult: What Is the Difference?
It is often said that the term cult and the occult are two sides of the same coin. It is true that there are common aspects of both terms and often some blurring occurs; cults frequently practice aspects of the occult and occult groups are (in a larger aspect of the word) themselves cults. When using the term cult, it refers to groups that claim to be Christian or compatible with Christianity, but when their theology and practices are examined, they are found to be contrary to the essential doctrines of the Christian faith. Frequently cults will exploit their followers through the abuse of religious authority, forms of mind control, or psychological abuse, often in the name of Christ. Occult organizations, however, seldom claim to be Christian churches. Occult practices are less frequently billed as compatible with Christianity (although there are exceptions). The term “occult” is derived from the Latin word occultus which means to cover up, to hide, or those things which are hidden or
