[Rq-rules] *** JUNK MAIL ***Re: spirit cults versus religion

[Simon Phipp]

Paul Cardwell:
> The terms I think the question is looking for are sect
> and denomination - both are religions (as, for that
> matter, are most cults).

In RuneQuest, then term is "cult" and that has always worked.

It doesn't really matter what the real-world definitiion of a cult/religion/sect/denomination is.

I always thought a denomination was a faction within a religion, so you have various protestant denominations withing Christianity, for example.

But, for RQ purposes, it is irrelevant.

In RQ, a cult is a set of worshippers who gain magical and spiritual benefit/powers through the worship of a particular divinity. Spirit cults gain these benefits through direct contact with the divinity using shamanic practices. Rune/Divine cults gain these benefits through worship in a divine cult. Malkioni, in Glorantha, gain their benefits through sorcerous cults which honour saints and prophets. But, essentially they do the same job.

So, please, let's not get tied down in dictionary definitions and debates of cult/sect/denomination and other real world terms.

See Ya

Simon
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