On an unrelated note, he asked me if I was seeing anyone and that if I was, would tell him about it. I replied no and yes... which were both lies so now I feel horrible about that.
As a parent I feel funny about this.
I would like to know, but I'm fully aware that I have no right to know.
You are an adult, physically, mentally and legally, and it is up to you to decide what information you choose to share with your parents.
IMHO you did not "lie" to your father. He put you in a position where he asked for information that you did not want to share, and you didn't.
To both you and CarnageScarlet.
You have all my best wishes. It horrifies my parental instincts that superstition and cult mentality can make anybody treat their children that way!
And no, you are not going to spend the rest of your lives flipping burgers or being prostitutes.
But it is one helluva threat, right? And "they" want you to believe, that you are lost if you leave the cult.
But people have worked their way through education on their own before.
It is tough, and you will have to work with a tight economy, but it is possible.
Freedom is not cheap and it is dangerous. But I would choose "dangerous freedom" over "comfortable slavery" any day!
And CarnageScarlet: Choking people is life threatening. Be VERY careful, and be prepared to go to the police.
If it ever leaves marks on your neck or petechiae on your face or the white of the eyes, the assault has been life threatening. Get out at once and go to the police.
Be prepared, and start considering/planning your exit strategy. There are some really good links on the front page.