Satanism

[Dusk]

Satanism has been discussed here in the past. Here are some links.

Satanism (and satanic witches) (http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=1635)

A lil more on Satanism :) (http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=22217)

I can't choose between Satanism and Paganism! must I choose? (http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=40176)

Satanism (http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=40257)

[luna rising]

I felt bad becasue no one replied to your post.

Are you a satanist? I am not, but I have always been very curious about their beliefs and lifestyles. At least as far as LaVeyan (sp?) Satanism is concerned. Sometimes it is hard to learn what an individual's beliefs are because the discussions get pretty heated -- and more time is spent on what Satanism is NOT than what it is.

[Dusk]

Satanist is a widely used term. The Satanism I am referring to is the Modern Satanism of Anton Lavey.

The Satanic Bible was the first occult book I read. I was surprised by the contents. LaVey’s focus on individuality was what attracted me. As an agnostic, I was also attracted by some of the ritualistic practice of magick without focusing energy on or through a deity.

Another thing I got out of it was responsibly. Sure, live your life as you will, indulge as much as you like, but know and be prepared to deal with the consequences of your actions.

For example, go ahead and gorge yourself with all your favorite foods, but be prepared to be fat, or have other health problems.

The name “Satanism” is the hot issue. It attracts some of the wrong sorts and frightens some who would otherwise agree with the tenets.

Satanists do not think human or animal sacrifice is ok. They believe the opposite.

[luna rising]

The Satanic Bible was the first occult book I read. I was surprised by the contents. LaVey’s focus on individuality was what attracted me. As an agnostic, I was also attracted by some of the ritualistic practice of magick without focusing energy on or through a deity.

That was one of the things I was unaware of. I always thought of LaVeyan Satanism as more of a philosophy than a religion. I didn't know that there was a ritual system involved. And I did know about the focus on the self -- life is what should be worshipped, not a diety -- is that right?

And I would never assume that Satanists are into sacrifice. I know that Satanism has been warped just as fundamental Christianity has been warped. Be it the guys in the back of homeroom when you were a kid that carved upside down pentagrams and crosses on the desk and never took their jean jackets off, or be it the housewife that learns how to make a bomb to destroy the abortion clinic, there will always be someone to give a belief system a bad name.

[Arcane]

That is very true...my grandmother yells at me non-stop about the things I do being "Satanic". She claims that RPing D&D, listening to heavy metal, and playing video games like Diablo 2 and DarkStone. I try to tell her that it's not though. I would like to get to know more about the Levay Satanism beliefs. At least that way when I get into another discussion with my grandmother I actually have some facts to throw around and work with...if nothing else.

[Hamelyn]

;)

Actually the modern Satanism you refer to has interested me for a while. Now that I'm 18, this is a reminder that I'd like to attend a gathering sometime. Philosophically I mix Taoism with Hedonism, so I'm quite enamored with the idea of another faith preaching personal responsibility. *nod* Very cool, Dusk, thanks for the extra info. I doubt I'll join up, but knowing more is always fun.

Expect me to drop you a line if I have more questions though. :D

[Krystall]

I suppose I kind of have my own idea of satanism.

As discussed in previous threads, it's about the 'self'. 'Self' is responsible for the actions of the individual, etc. I also read "The Satanic Bible" when I was a teen, 30 years ago, (ugh! has it been THAT long ago?)

Anyway, I've rambled about on different paths and finally landed on Dianic witchcraft in an on-line course taught by Z Budapest.

To be perfectly honest, and this is ONLY MY OPINION, I don't see much difference, if any, between wicca/witchcraft/paganism and satanism.

All these paths are about 'self', whether it be 'self' blending with a chosen deity and raising energy to bring about desired changes. Even if those desired changes are intended for good, it's still 'Self' who is trying to play God, NOT God. Does what I'm saying make sense to anyone?

I'm trying to say, that when I pull it all together, it seems to me that the mechanications behind paganism and satanism are the same.

I've finally fumbled my way back to Christianity and feel that this is where I belong and where I'll remain. There have been many supernatural events in my life that most Christians scoff at and disbelieve, but the fact remains, that *I* believe the things that have happened.

Just tossing out food for thought.

Krystall

[charmedkisses1]

Most Satanists actually worship Satan though- I've visited a meeting. ::shudders:: And for those who don't worship or believe in Satan should honestly pick ANOTHER NAME- it's really confusing :elf:
P.s. I'm not trying to make anyone mad :huddle:

[Arcane]

Tis true Krystall. But essentially everything came from a version of Paganism. Alot of evrything is borrowed from Paganism...Christianity, Lutheranism, I believe that in the beginning there were only 2 main religions...Paganism and one other which I can not think of at this particular momment.

[Hamelyn]

I think it's cool to see a Christian take such an objective view of Satanism, Krystall. That's rather cool of you. I've always found it strange that people who believe in God and demons can scoff at the supernatural. *beams* Yer nifty.

CharmedKisses: Didn't make ME mad. I haven't been to any meetings (yet) but most Satanists I've spoken with explain the title as a form of emulation of self-empowerment. Like most other paths you could lump under paganism, they point out the futility in worshiping the anti-God of a religion they don't practice. Denounce Christianity and you pretty much denounce Satan also. Although I will admit it's a confusing title.

[Tharien]

As far as i;m aware Anton Lavey Satanists use Satan as a symbol for the 'darker' self, desires and all that lot, liek you say a form of emulation of self empowerment.
And Temple of Set Satanists worship Satan as a diety, using Set the egyiption god of (ack cant remember, think it was mischeaf of something)
There the two main forms of satanism i know about.
Lavey Satanism is at www.churchofsatan.com
and Temple of Set info can be found at http://www.xeper.org/ for anyone interested

[Krystall]

Dear Hamelyn,

Thank you for your kind words.

As far as you exploring satanism, I would be lying if I said it doesn't worry me. It does. I think one of the hardest things Christians face is making others feel like we're butting in and telling them that ours is the ONE AND ONLY true path. That really turns people off, makes Christians look terrible, and probably drives more people out of churches than anything else.

When I was pagan, nobody could ever have convinced me with words. It took supernatural experiences in my life for God to get His point across to me.

If you feel like sharing what you learn, I'd be interested to hear it.

Krystall

[Arcane]

No matter what you call the religion...it all comes from the same place and consists of the same thing...magic...miracles...all of it is bullshit.

[SylverStar]

I've never really read any books on Satanism, always meant to. I had a friend you followed Satanism for a brief period of time. Alot of the philosophies fit me but not all. The number one thing is I put myself above anyone else. Not that I don't care for others. But you must help yourself before you are able to help others.

[Arcane]

I agree with you whole-heartedly. But I don't think that you fully grasp the idea that all Satanism wants you to do is to be self-reliant and responsible. It's not saying that you HAVE to abide to eveything that it states. Use what you and like and make your own "spin-off" of Satanism...one that you are comfortable with. And thatnks for the Karma for my avatar.

[SylverStar]

Oh no, I know next to nothing about Satanism. I also have this uncanny ability to not cleary state what I mean.

With all these classes and stuff I was thinking. It would be intresting to go through each point or philosophy and get different prespectives of meanings on them.

Oh and your welcome. ^_^

[Arcane]

I'm sure that myself and everyone else here wouldn't mind helping you to achieve what you want to do.

[mol]

Most Satanists actually worship Satan though- I've visited a meeting. ::shudders:: And for those who don't worship or believe in Satan should honestly pick ANOTHER NAME- it's really confusing :elf:
P.s. I'm not trying to make anyone mad :huddle:
Incorrect. Most Satanists...do NOT worship Satan. They worship more of the idea, the symbolism of Satan inside of them. There are some diety worshipping Satanists out there for sure, but these are the actual minority.

[mol]

No matter what you call the religion...it all comes from the same place and consists of the same thing...magic...miracles...all of it is bullshit.
ADMIN MODE

2. No bashing of other religions or personal Paths is allowed in this community. Discussion of Paths is allowed and disagreement is also allowed but the act of telling someone a Path is "invalid or wrong" (for example) is not allowed.

[Arcane]

I wasn't bashing any religion I was just saying that the schisms and seperations between religions and the shutting out of one from another is what's bullshit.

[mol]

I wasn't bashing any religion I was just saying that the schisms and seperations between religions and the shutting out of one from another is what's bullshit.
Perhaps make your posts clearer next time time then. And if you have a problem with moderations please pm an admin rather than derail the thread with a fight about who is right and who is wrong in a moderation.

[Arcane]

I was clarifying it for the whole thread.

[Muireannach]

As far as i;m aware Anton Lavey Satanists use Satan as a symbol for the 'darker' self, desires and all that lot, liek you say a form of emulation of self empowerment.
And Temple of Set Satanists worship Satan as a diety, using Set the egyiption god of (ack cant remember, think it was mischeaf of something)
There the two main forms of satanism i know about.
Lavey Satanism is at www.churchofsatan.com
and Temple of Set info can be found at http://www.xeper.org/ for anyone interested

As a Satanist I must say that you are correct in your information. Those who believe in Satan are Devil Worshippers and a Different kind of beast.

[Muireannach]

I am going to start a Satanism FAQ soon...keep your eyes peeled for those who are interested.

[mol]

I am going to start a Satanism FAQ soon...keep your eyes peeled for those who are interested.
Excellent work on the FAQ.

[Muireannach]

Excellent work on the FAQ.

Thanks :)

[Arcane]

I think that a FAQ will be beneficial to those who don't fully understand Satinism. Good luck.

[Krystall]

To Muireannach:

Hi. I just read your second 'signature' about satan being a rebel, etc.

I'm just very curious about something. In the Christian Bible it is stated that God will overcome satan and satan will be thrown into the pit.

Why would anyone want to follow satan, if it's already predestined that satan will lose a spiritual war? Or is it that you don't believe the Bible?

I mean absolutely no disrespect with these questions. I ask only out of curiosity. I'm interested in what you believe.

Krystall
http://www.waroftheangels.org

[Muireannach]

To Muireannach:

Hi. I just read your second 'signature' about satan being a rebel, etc.

I'm just very curious about something. In the Christian Bible it is stated that God will overcome satan and satan will be thrown into the pit.

Why would anyone want to follow satan, if it's already predestined that satan will lose a spiritual war? Or is it that you don't believe the Bible?

I mean absolutely no disrespect with these questions. I ask only out of curiosity. I'm interested in what you believe.

Krystall
http://www.waroftheangels.org

Read the FAQ and you will understand ;) You are thinking of Devil Worshippers, not Satanists.

http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=51375&page=1&pp=10

[Arcane]

Fantastic FAQ! Informational and humorous at the same time...I think the FAQ will clear alot of fog from the title of Satanism for those here at MW.

[Krystall]

Dear Muireannach,

Thanks for directing me to the FAQs. I'm pretty new to this site and each site being different, it took me a while to find the info.

One thing the struck me - A lot of the things are beliefs I've held for a long time, only I consider myself Christian because I believe in everything Jesus taught, and the resurrection.

But a lot of those points are just common sense, 'don't hurt anyone', etc. I'll have to read them again. There's a lot of information there.

So..... I have a friend who got caught up in a satanic cult and has multiple personality as a result of the torment and trauma she went through. Actually, by the info in the FAQs, she was in with 'devil worshippers'?

Lots of food for thought. I'll be back when I digest.

Krystall http://www.waroftheangels.org

[Arcane]

I have had a few friends with the same problem Krystall. It really isn't a pretty sight. I have helped them to the best of my ability, but the only real help can come from within themselves.

[aluokaloo]

Why not, alot of us take all kinds of different paths, and I know several satanists who follow many Pagan deities and traditions. :deviltail :bat:

[aluokaloo]

Actually I did a little reading about Satan, who was actually as far as I could see it God's policeman so to speak, He didn't like something that was going on, He would call his satans and have them pull out the stops.

[scaerie faerie]

To Muireannach:

Hi. I just read your second 'signature' about satan being a rebel, etc.

I'm just very curious about something. In the Christian Bible it is stated that God will overcome satan and satan will be thrown into the pit.

Why would anyone want to follow satan, if it's already predestined that satan will lose a spiritual war? Or is it that you don't believe the Bible?

I mean absolutely no disrespect with these questions. I ask only out of curiosity. I'm interested in what you believe.

Krystall
http://www.waroftheangels.org

I know that this question was for Muireannach, and she's already answered it more than adequately, and as a non-Satanist I can't give as accurate and informative an answer as she can, so my remark is more one of analysing the Bible as literature rather than throwing any debate on spiritual truth into this argument - your remark about it being 'predestined that Satan will lose a spiritual war' just reminded me of the film The Devil's Advocate:

Kevin Lomax: In the Bible you lose. We're destined to lose, Dad.
John Milton/Satan: [Points upwards] Well consider the source, son!

Thus it could be argued that the Bible was bound to say that, in a sense. :)

[aluokaloo]

I find satanism interesting, and I have done a little study on it, read here and there. I find it to be just as broad a religion/faith as any other, I have no interest in pursueing that path myself. I think that its the name and the negative connotations that turn most people off of it. I do believe that there is some sort of deity, that some satanists worship, but I'm not sure if you could call that deity Satan or Lucifer. Maybe you could clear that up for me?

[Rain Gnosis]

aluokaloo83 - There is more than one form of Satanism. Luciferian Satanists work with Lucifer (if I recall correctly, Lucifer as a light-bringer), LaVeyan Satanists do not worship any deity or entity (not Lucifer, Satan, or others). Generally the Satanism referred to in this thread is LaVeyan.

[Nighthawk]

Oh, so ..I never knew that.. so, just like the Wiccan/wicca threads, there are different types of satanists, according to their following? Oh, cool...

[Darklord_Kodiak]

Look what I dug up. Is there not enough intrest in Satanism?

[Sage Rainsong]

Lately I have been reading more about Theistic Satanism through Diane Vera's Website: http://www.theisticsatanism.com/
I don't think that I'd ever follow the path but it is quite facinating.

[Darklord_Kodiak]

I dont really follow any certain path. I due however like the philosophy that is incoorperated into much of it. For the most part I find the psycology aspects to be right on.

[GEBS]

Look what I dug up. Is there not enough intrest in Satanism?


Sadly, there doesn't seem to be. I was just complaining the other day that we don't have a Paths section for Satanism. If we had more interest we'd have one.

[Darklord_Kodiak]

Heh strangly I was looking for the something today. That would be awsome. Maybe we can drum some up.

[GEBS]

heh... we could start a Satanist roll call thread to see if we have enough interest :D

[Darklord_Kodiak]

That would be a great idea. :)

[GEBS]

I'll discuss it with mol when he gets home and then, if he still agrees, I'll post a thread to see if we have enough interest. :)

[Darklord_Kodiak]

Sweet. Thanx :fpraise:

[GEBS]

My pleasure!