The notion that repression can be used to enhance holiness is a key feature of many high control religious groups. This paper explores how repression can contribute to holiness within these groups through an analysis of various texts, practices, and belief systems. Repression, which involves the suppression or denial of natural desires and impulses, often plays a central role in these religions' teachings and rituals. By emphasizing self-control and restraint, followers are encouraged to view their bodily urges as sinful and harmful, leading them to suppress those urges through strict adherence to rules, doctrine, and regulation.
Repression can take many forms in these religions, from dress codes to dietary restrictions to prohibitions on sexual behavior.
Many fundamentalist Christian sects require women to wear modest clothing that covers their bodies completely, while others forbid dancing, drinking alcohol, and other activities deemed "sinful" by church leaders. Similarly, Islamic extremists may force their wives to cover themselves entirely except for their eyes in public spaces. In both cases, the goal is to create a sense of physical and emotional distance between the individual and the outside world, with the ultimate aim being spiritual transformation through self-discipline and denial.
Repression does not simply stop at physical acts; it also extends into the realm of thought and emotion. Many high control religious movements encourage members to avoid certain thoughts or feelings altogether, such as lust or anger. These thoughts and feelings are seen as dangerous temptations that lead to sin and corruption, and therefore must be actively avoided or suppressed. This can involve extensive mental discipline and training, with followers taught to focus exclusively on positive, virtuous behaviors and beliefs.
Repression can play a role in social interactions within these groups, as well. Members are often discouraged from forming close bonds with anyone outside the group, which can limit their ability to express intimacy and vulnerability. Instead, they are encouraged to form tightly knit communities based on shared beliefs and values, with strict rules governing everything from conversation topics to social activities. This isolation can make it difficult for individuals to connect meaningfully with people outside the group, leading them to see outsiders as inherently untrustworthy and spiritually inferior.
This paper demonstrates how repression becomes a measure of holiness in many high control religions. By emphasizing self-control and restraint, these groups seek to transform their members into pure, righteous vessels who are no longer swayed by bodily desires or emotional temptations.
This process can come at a cost: some individuals may find themselves feeling trapped, isolated, and unable to fully express themselves in ways that bring them joy and fulfillment. It is essential that we understand the complex dynamics behind repression in these contexts, as it has significant implications for both individuals' lives and society more broadly.