Scientology Beliefs and Practices - Scriptures and Practices

Scriptures and Practices

See also: L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology bibliography

The American science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard is considered the sole source of Dianetics and Scientology. His work, recorded in 500,000 pages of writings, 6,500 reels of tape and 42 films, is carefully protected and guarded for posterity. These materials include auditing procedures, and also training procedure for the administration of Scientology facilities. Scientology studies are achieved by the systematic study and application of its axioms and principles.

It is believed in Scientology that it will only truly work when it is applied in its pure form as Hubbard intended. Any alteration to these techniques is thought to hinder Scientology's effectiveness. Restating or interpreting the source text in one's own words is frowned upon and strongly advised against, within the Church. Individuals applying Hubbard's techniques who are not officially connected to the Church of Scientology are considered part of the "Free Zone". Some of these individuals were litigated against for using and modifying the practices for their own use.

The Church of Scientology has issued versions of some of Hubbard's texts and recordings that contain alterations or omissions with respect to their original versions. These variant texts have been a subject of controversy, especially among Free Zone practitioners.

In July 2007, a re-release of all of Hubbard's basic books and tape recordings on Dianetics and Scientology was announced. The announcement was made in a speech given by David Miscavige and the Flag Land Base. In an almost three hour briefing he claimed that many errors had been found in previous versions of the books, and that a large-scale project was undertaken to locate the original dictaphone recordings and annotated transcriptions of the books and restore each work to its original form.