A picture showing the bodies of dead cult members who died believing their souls were going on a spaceship, which would take them into an alien world in 1997

A picture showing the bodies of dead cult members who died believing their souls were going on a spaceship, which would take them into an alien world in 1997. 

Heaven’s Gate was a Christian cult led by Marshall Applewhite. The cult became infamous in 1997 after 39 members committed suicide, all wearing Nike running shoes with armbands displaying the cult insignia. They had bags over their heads to ensure death due to a lack of oxygen and also draped purple shrouds over themselves. Additionally, all members consumed apple sauce mixed with sedatives and drank vodka, including Applewhite himself.

The cult held some bizarre beliefs, and it was these beliefs that led to the members’ deaths. Their central beliefs were essentially a mix of Christianity and science fiction. The group believed that the world was ending or would be recycled, and to avoid this fate, they chose to commit suicide so that their souls could board a spaceship. According to their beliefs, this spaceship would transport their souls to a new world called “The Next Level,” where their souls would undergo spiritual enlightenment. The cult also believed in extraterrestrial life and UFOs, while rejecting the human body, as they believed a higher physical form could be obtained.

The members died on March 27, 1997, a significant date because the Hale-Bopp comet was passing by Earth and was visible to the naked eye. It was believed that the spaceship they anticipated was following the comet, and its proximity to Earth made it accessible for the souls to reach.

Many people wonder how anyone could adhere to such a strange and outlandish ideology. Cults often target individuals with specific personality traits that make them susceptible to indoctrination. Here is a list of some of these traits:

1. Vulnerability

2. Low self-esteem

3. Need for belonging

4. Openness to new experiences

5. Susceptibility to manipulation

6. Desire for meaning and purpose

7. Disillusionment with mainstream society