heavens gate

Question 1

when and how did the movement start?

Answer 1

early 1970s.
Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles, they were the 2 witnesses mentioned in the book of revelations.
-earth was about be “recycled” and that the only way to survive was to leave it behind.
combined elements of christianity with beliefs about extraterrestrial life, leading to a unique spiritual philosophy.

Question 2

why did it start

Answer 2

The group believed they were chosen to guide others to a higher spiritual level, interpreting this as an escape from the physical world. Their teachings emphasized transcending earthly existence through their unique interpretation of Christianity.

Question 3

organisational structure

Answer 3

The group was led by Marshall Applewhite, known as “Do,” who was a charismatic leader guiding their beliefs and practices. Followers, called “the class,” lived together under strict rules, following a hierarchical structure to align personal desires with the group’s collective goals.

Question 4

norms and values

Answer 4

The group had distinct norms and values, rejecting materialism and earthly attachments. Members renounced personal relationships and desires, believing in the world’s end and the need to transcend physical existence. They practiced celibacy and maintained a uniform appearance as a sign of commitment.

Question 5

core beliefs of the group

Answer 5

They believed human bodies were mere “vehicles” for the soul, aiming to ascend to a non-corporeal, utopian “next level.” They claimed extraterrestrials guided chosen humans to ascension and taught that Jesus was an alien showing the path to transcendence.

Question 6

social groups that they attracted

Answer 6

They attracted educated, tech-savvy, and spiritually seeking individuals who were disillusioned with mainstream society
Many members had college degrees, particularly in science, engineering and technology

Question 7

what has happened to them

Answer 7

In March 1997 39 members, including their leader Marshall Applewhite, died in a mass sucicide in California. They believed they were shedding their earthly ‘containers’ to board a spaceship supposedly tailing the Hale-bopp comet.