Tom Cruise is a follower of the Church of Scientology, which is a controversial and secretive religion founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard in the 1950s. Scientology is based on the belief that humans are essentially spiritual beings called Thetans, who have lived through multiple past lives and are suffering from the effects of past traumas. The church offers a wide variety of self-help courses and auditing services designed to help members overcome these traumas and reach a state of spiritual enlightenment or "Clear."
Cruise has been a vocal advocate of Scientology and credits the religion with helping him overcome dyslexia and providing him with a sense of purpose and direction in his life. However, Scientology has been accused of many controversial practices, including harassment of critics and former members, and some former members have accused the church of being a cult that exploits its members for financial gain. Despite its controversial past, Scientology continues to attract a devoted following of believers, and many celebrities, including Cruise and John Travolta, remain dedicated members of the church.