The evolution of Scientology, a controversial religious movement developed by L. Ron Hubbard, is not without its captivating historical connections. This blog post dives deep into the intriguing relationship between Hubbard, Aleister Crowley, Jack Parsons, and Crowley’s wife. By exploring their interactions and examining the influence they had on one another, we can gain valuable insights into the development of Hubbard and his pioneering religious movement, Scientology.
1. L. Ron Hubbard and Aleister Crowley:
a. Early Connections: While there are claims that L. Ron Hubbard and Aleister Crowley met, no concrete evidence suggests that they had a close relationship. However, both individuals were active during the same period within esoteric circles, with Crowley’s influence being prominent among occultists.
b. Influential Ideas: Hubbard, as a young man, had a fascination for occultism and metaphysical practices. Although specifics of their influence on Hubbard are unclear, it is plausible that Crowley’s philosophies, such as “Do what thou wilt,” and his involvement in ceremonial magick, may have influenced Hubbard’s later spiritual concepts.
2. Jack Parsons and L. Ron Hubbard:
a. Collaboration on the Babalon Working: Jack Parsons, an American rocket propulsion researcher and a dedicated follower of Crowley, collaborated with Hubbard in 1946 on a series of rituals known as the Babalon Working. The objective was to manifest the divine feminine, symbolized by the goddess Babalon.
b. Hubbard’s Role and Departure: Hubbard participated as a “scribe” in the Babalon Working rituals, documenting the events. However, following some controversial events and alleged personal conflicts, Hubbard left abruptly, taking with him Parsons’ girlfriend, Sara Northrup. This departure strained their relationship.
c. Influence on Scientology: It is debated how directly the experiences with Parsons and his involvement in the Babalon Working influenced Hubbard and affected the development of Scientology. While there may have been shared ideas and concepts explored during their brief collaboration, it is difficult to determine the extent of Parsons’ influence on Scientology’s doctrines.
3. Influence of Crowley’s Wife, Marjorie Cameron:
a. Close Association: Jack Parsons, a devoted follower of Crowley, was married to Marjorie Cameron, an artist, poet, and occultist. Cameron often participated in Parsons’ magickal rituals and ceremonies, embracing some of Crowley’s ideologies and practices.
b. Cameron’s Influence on Parsons: Cameron’s influence on Parsons’ occult research and practices is documented, and her participation in ceremonies likely influenced Parsons’ understanding of Crowley’s teachings and his pursuit of spiritual experiences.
c. Hubbard’s Involvement and Departure: Hubbard’s involvement with Cameron is less clear, although some sources suggest he had interactions with her during his time with Parsons. However, the exact nature and extent of their relationship remain speculative and inconclusive.
While L. Ron Hubbard’s interactions with Aleister Crowley, Jack Parsons, and Crowley’s wife, Marjorie Cameron, are undeniably fascinating, their impact on Scientology’s development is difficult to ascertain with absolute certainty. Although Hubbard engaged in collaborative occult rituals with Parsons, the exact influence of Crowley and Parsons on Scientology remains ambiguous. It is essential to approach the subject with caution, relying on verified information rather than speculation to fully comprehend the intricate history surrounding the development of Scientology and Hubbard’s relationships with these notable figures of the occult.
