Recover From Coercive Control
A note before you read on:
The information on this page may bring up difficult feelings, particularly if you have personal experience with this group. That's a completely understandable response — what many members go through is genuinely harmful.
It's also worth noting that the overall score presented here is an average. Regardless of where a group sits on the scale, a single adverse experience — like being deceived, manipulated, or pressured even once — can be genuinely traumatic and deserving of support.
If you'd like help making sense of your experience, Renée offers specialised online counselling for survivors of high-control groups. Renée's counselling is built around understanding exactly how groups like this operate.
Hinduism
Shaivism
Also known as Shaiva tradition, Shaiva Siddhanta, Shaivaite, Shaiva Sampradaya, and Shivaism
Founded by Lord Shiva
Era of the Vedas, approximately 1500- 500 BCE
Established in India. Currently practiced in Australia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Indonesia, Malaysia, Fiji, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and South Africa.
Estimated followers: Unknown (tens of millions worldwide)
Summary of Beliefs
Shaivism is a prominent Hindu tradition centred on the worship of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism known as the destroyer and transformer. Dates back to the era of the Vedas, the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism and are believed to have been composed between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE.
Followers of Shaivism, known as Shaivas or Shaivites, believe in the divine nature of Shiva as the Supreme Being, who transcends the universe and embodies both benevolent and fierce aspects. Central to Shaivite beliefs is the concept of Shiva as the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the source of creation, preservation, and dissolution of the universe.
Shaivism emphasises devotion (bhakti) to Shiva through rituals, prayers, and meditation aimed at attaining spiritual liberation (moksha) and union with Shiva's divine consciousness. The tradition encompasses a rich variety of philosophical schools, such as Shaiva Siddhanta and Kashmir Shaivism, which interpret Shiva's teachings and the relationship between the individual soul (atman) and the universal soul (Brahman). Shaivites also venerate sacred texts like the Vedas, Agamas, and Puranas, which provide theological insights and ritual practices for honoring Shiva. Iconography, temple worship, and festivals dedicated to Shiva are integral aspects of Shaivite spirituality, fostering a deep connection to divine presence and cosmic energies.
Analysis Using Renée's Cult Ranking
1. Authoritative Leadership
Score: 1
Shaivism often features a variety of spiritual leaders, including gurus and priests, who guide followers in their spiritual practices. While these leaders hold significant respect and influence, Shaivism generally promotes personal spiritual exploration and autonomy. The level of authoritative control varies widely depending on specific Shaivite communities or ashrams, but it tends to be less centralised compared to other traditions.
2. Control Over Information
Score: 0
Shaivism encourages the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and personal understanding of its teachings. There is no significant restriction on access to information, either within the tradition or from external sources. Followers are often encouraged to read widely and explore various aspects of Shaiva philosophy and other religious or philosophical texts.
3. Deception
Score: 0
Shaivism in Australia operates with a high degree of openness and transparency regarding its practices and teachings. There is no evidence to suggest that Shaivite communities engage in deceptive practices to recruit or retain followers. The focus is typically on voluntary participation and sincere spiritual engagement.
4. Exclusive Knowledge
Score: 1
While Shaivism holds its teachings in high regard, it does not claim exclusive spiritual knowledge or denigrate other paths. Shaivite philosophy acknowledges multiple paths to spiritual realisation and respects the validity of other religious traditions. The emphasis is on deepening one's personal connection to Shiva rather than asserting an exclusive hold on spiritual truth.
5. Exploitation
Score: 0
There is no widespread evidence of financial or emotional exploitation within Shaivite communities in Australia. Contributions to temples or spiritual leaders are typically voluntary, and the overall approach to financial matters is moderate and respectful of individual capabilities. The primary focus is on fostering a supportive and nurturing spiritual environment.
6. Fear, Guilt, & Intimidation
Score: 0
Shaivism emphasises inner peace, self-realisation, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through practices like meditation and devotion. It does not utilise fear, guilt, or intimidation as tools for control. The teachings of Shaivism focus on love, compassion, and the intrinsic divinity of all beings, fostering a positive and uplifting spiritual atmosphere.
7. Isolation
Score: 0
Shaivite communities in Australia do not promote isolation from broader society. Followers are encouraged to integrate their spiritual practices with their daily lives and maintain relationships outside their religious community. Shaivism values engagement with the world as a part of one's spiritual journey rather than retreating from it.
8. Micro-Management of Daily Tasks
Score: 0
Shaivism does not engage in micromanaging the daily lives of its followers. While there are recommended practices such as meditation, worship, and ethical living, these are suggested as paths to spiritual growth rather than enforced mandates. Followers have the freedom to adapt these practices to their individual lifestyles and needs.
9. Monitoring Thoughts & Behaviours
Score: 0
There is no systematic monitoring of individual thoughts or behaviours in Shaivism. The tradition emphasises personal spiritual development and encourages followers to seek their own understanding and relationship with Shiva. Any guidance provided by spiritual leaders is generally intended to support personal growth rather than to control.
10. Punishment & Discipline
Score: 0
Shaivism does not employ punitive measures or strict disciplinary actions within its communities. The focus is on guiding followers towards self-awareness and spiritual maturity rather than imposing penalties for non-conformity. Any corrections or advice given are typically in the context of compassionate support and encouragement.
11. Thought Reform
Score: 0
Shaivism does not engage in thought reform or coercive persuasion. Followers are encouraged to explore their own spiritual paths and develop their understanding of Shaivite teachings at their own pace. The tradition values personal insight and the experiential aspect of spirituality over rigid doctrinal adherence.
12. Us vs. Them Mentality
Score: 0
Shaivism does not foster an "us vs. them" mentality. It is inclusive and respects the diversity of spiritual paths and beliefs. The teachings encourage a view of all beings as interconnected and divine, promoting harmony and mutual respect among different religious and cultural groups.
Total Score: 2/36
Overall Cult Ranking: 1. Benign Group
With an overall score of 1 on Renee’s scale, Shaivism in Australia is categorised as a minimal-control group. This ranking indicates that Shaivism operates with minimal characteristics associated with high-control groups. The tradition emphasises personal spiritual exploration, voluntary participation, and an inclusive worldview, making it a welcoming and flexible path for its adherents.
Shaivism in Australia, as evaluated through Renee’s Cult Ranking System, demonstrates the hallmarks of a low-control, inclusive spiritual tradition. Its focus on personal spiritual growth, respect for diverse beliefs, and minimal hierarchical control make it accessible and supportive for those seeking a deep connection with Shiva without the constraints of high-control group dynamics.
Further Reading
IS IT A CULT?: Response from
Shaivism
No known response.
Support available for anyone impacted by a high-control groups or relationships, and want to speak to someone who understands coercive control and the road to recovery
These assessments evaluate group dynamics, particularly patterns associated with coercive control. They are not determinations about whether any individual has or has not experienced trauma, abuse, or harm. Personal impact varies widely. Coercive control often develops through an accumulation of influences rather than a single event, though specific moments — such as discovering deception or betrayal — can themselves be deeply distressing or traumatic. If your experiences in a group have affected your wellbeing, support from a trauma-informed counsellor or therapist can be an important step toward understanding, healing, and regaining a sense of autonomy. Assessments provided here are conducted using Renée's Cult Ranking system and reflect her personal opinions, which are based on online sources and personal testimonies. Renée acknowledges that groups can change over time, for better or worse, and that individual experiences within any given group can vary. Renée is open to respectful discussions and encourages diverse perspectives to foster a better understanding of matters raised.