Description

This chapter follows the unusual world built by Yisrayl Hawkins in Abilene, Texas, a place where strict prophecy, end-time anxieties, and absolute obedience shaped everyday life. The House of Yahweh presented itself as the only path to truth, but former members describe a community where personal choices, relationships, and even thoughts were pulled into the orbit of one man’s revelations. We trace how Hawkins reworked ancient texts into a modern warning, how followers were drawn in by promises of certainty, and how that certainty slowly narrowed into control. From purity rules to shifting doomsday dates, the group’s internal logic kept people anchored even when the outside world saw red flags. Survivors explain what it took to finally walk away and what remained with them long after they did.

Part 1 – The Prophet of Abilene
Part 2 – A Name Above All Names
Part 3 – Life in the House
Part 4 – The End Is Always Near
Part 5 – Law and Judgment
Part 6 – The Legacy of Yahweh

From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place.

New episodes weekly
Listener stories always welcome
Anonymity guaranteed.

Listener stories: hiddencultspodcast@gmail.com

International Resources

• International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
  https://www.icsahome.com
  Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
• Open Minds Foundation
  https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
  Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
• The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
  https://www.thehotline.org
  📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
• Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
  https://freedomofmind.com
  Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
• FaithTrust Institute
  https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
  Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.

• Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
  📞 1-239-514-3081
  Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
  https://www.rainn.org
  📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.

• Cult & Trauma Support Resources 
• Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
• Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
• Email: infosecte@qc.aira.com
• Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
• Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

• The Family Survival Trust
  https://familysurvivaltrust.org
  Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
• Cults Information Centre and Family Support
  https://cults.org.uk
  UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.
• Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
  https://www.mind.org.uk
  📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.

• Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
  https://www.cifs.org.au
  National support for individuals and families affected by cults.