Recall the controversy that ensued when Juliet's departure date seemed to be 9/11?  (False alarm folks, there is no 9/11 LOST connection.)  Imagine the fallout from this one!  The branding that Juliet received is awfully reminiscent of the Scientology cross upside down!  Inverted crosses came about with St. Peter's crucifixion.  He did not feel worthy of being crucified under the same cross as his messiah.  It has since come to symbolize 'unworthiness'  and as a mark of deep respect for your superiors.  Are the others Scientologists?