Theistic Satanism: Difference between revisions
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nothing on this page had anything that was true if you truly want to learn do not use this lying site |
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[[Image:Lucifersigilen.jpg|thumb|150px|right|Part of the [[Sigil (magic)|sigil]] of [[Lucifer]] from the ''[[Grimorium Verum]]'', used as a symbol of Satan by some Theistic Satanists]] |
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'''Theistic Satanism''', sometimes referred to as '''Traditional Satanism''', '''Spiritual Satanism''' or '''Devil Worship''', is a form of [[Satanism]] with the primary belief that [[Satan]] is an actual [[deity]] or force to revere or worship.<ref name=autogenerated6>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=82}}</ref><ref>[http://theisticsatanism.com/rituals/prayers.html Prayers to Satan<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Other characteristics of Theistic Satanism may include a belief in [[magic (paranormal)|magic]], which is manipulated through [[ritual]].<ref name="mlo_interview"/> Unlike [[LaVeyan Satanism]] founded by [[Anton LaVey]] in the 1960s, Theistic Satanism is [[Theism|theistic]]<ref name="mlo_interview"/> as opposed to [[Atheism|atheistic]], believing that Satan (Hebrew: הַשָׂטָן ha-Satan, ‘the accuser’) is a real being<ref name="mlo_interview"/> rather than a symbol of individualism. |
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The history of Theistic Satanism, and assessments of its existence and prevalence in history, is obscured by it having been grounds for execution at some times in the past, and due to people having been accused of it who did not consider themselves to worship Satan, such as in the [[witch trials in Early Modern Europe]]. Most of Theistic Satanism exists in relatively new models and ideologies, and many claiming to not be involved with Christianity at all.<ref>http://www.templeoftheisticsatanism.com/archives/112/origins-satanism The Origins of Satanism</ref><ref>http://www.angelfire.com/empire/serpentis666/Satan.html Joy of Satan 'About Satan' Page</ref><ref>http://voiceofsatanism.com/2010/09/21/origins-of-satanism-why-sumeria/ The Origins of Satan, Why Sumeria?</ref> |
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==Possible history of Theistic Satanism== |
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The worship of Satan was a frequent charge against those charged in the witch trials in Early Modern Europe and other [[witch-hunt]]s such as the [[Salem witch trials]]. Worship of Satan was claimed to take place at the [[witches' sabbat]].<ref>http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan#PPA2,M1 Servants of Satan, page 2</ref> The charge of Satan worship has also been made against groups or individuals regarded with suspicion, such as the [[Knights Templar]], or minority religions.<ref>http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan Servants of Satan, page 22</ref> It is not known to what extent accusations of groups worshiping Satan in the time of the witch trials identified people who did consider themselves Satanists, rather than being the result of religious superstition or mass hysteria, or charges made against individuals suffering from [[mental illness]]. Confessions are unreliable, particularly as they were usually obtained under [[torture]].<ref>http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan#PPA11,M1 Servants of Satan, page 12</ref> However, noted scholar [[Jeffrey Burton Russell]], Professor Emeritus of the University of California at Santa Barbara, has made extensive arguments in his book ''Witchcraft in the Middle Ages''<ref>http://books.google.com/books?id=LsjagvvkveEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=witchcraft+in+the+jeffrey+burton+russell&source=bl&ots=aucjBY8pRY&sig=6M0qG_s1_M3eZRnPA4jwCEhvEak&hl=en&ei=NBqNTMq-EY2csQPxxLydBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCUQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q&f=false</ref> that not all witch trial records can be dismissed and that there is in fact evidence linking witchcraft to gnostic heresies. Russell comes to this conclusion after having studied the source documents themselves. Individuals involved in the [[poison affair]] were accused of Satanism and witchcraft. |
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[[Image:Baphomet.png|thumb|150px|left|The [[Baphomet]], adopted symbol of some [[Left-Hand Path]] systems, including Theistic Satanism.]] |
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Some members of Ordo Flammeus Serpens (OFS), a group that venerates demons, say that they were trained by a traditional family sect, or are generational [[demon]]o[[latria|laters]] whose religion has been passed down through the family.<ref>[http://www.ofs-demonolatry.org/dbpub.htm OFS Demonolatry<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Claims such as these are unproven.<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/bgoat/traditional.html Black Goat Cabal: traditional Satanism<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Tani Jantsang of Satanic Reds refers to herself as a generational Satanist,<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | coauthor=Jesper Aagaard Petersen | title=Controversial New Religions | publisher=Oxford University Press | year=2004 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=e0TfqG3XNmEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Controversial+New+Religions&sig=ZOIBD3jI0X478aRBL_6TSmba3lE | accessdate=2008-05-24 | page=437}}</ref> but what she means by that is that her family would have been labelled Satanic by Christianity, although they are in fact “non-Islamic Turko-Tatar”.<ref>[http://www.satanicreds.org/satanicreds/gen-sat.html Satanic Reds<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Theistic Satanists are inspired by incidences they see as evidence of previous followers of their faith. The concept of Satan may incorporate elements from older religions than Judaism. ''Ha-satan'' is the role of one of [[Yahweh]]'s court, whose duties include testing the faith of humanity; the concept may be derived from a judicial function in Israeli court, similar to a [[prosecuting attorney]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Grenz | first=Stanley J. | title=Theology for the Community of God | publisher=Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing | year=2000 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=NAPrXVh_56wC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Theology+for+the+Community+of+God&sig=norn85KacK8nnBxoX0i_0S-t2u0 | accessdate=2008-06-06 | page=226}}</ref> The [[Jewish Encyclopedia]] says that parts of the Old Testament where Satan is seen to act independently of God may have been influenced by [[Zoroastrianism]];<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=270&letter=S|title=Jewish Encyclopaedia}}</ref> however, the same article states that “The Angelology of the Talmud, moreover, proves that, according to the older view (until about 200 C.E.), punishment was inflicted by angels and not by Satan. In the course of time, however, official Judaism, beginning perhaps with Johanan (d. 279), absorbed the popular concepts of Satan, which doubtless forced their way gradually from the lower classes to the most cultured.”<ref name="jewishencyclopedia.com">http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=270&letter=S&search=Satan#915</ref> and that according to later Talmudic tradition about Satan “He is the incarnation of all evil, and his thoughts and activities are devoted to the destruction of man; so that Satan, the impulse to evil (‘yeẓer ha-ra’), and the angel of death are one and the same personality. He descends from heaven and leads astray, then ascends and brings accusations against mankind.”<ref name="jewishencyclopedia.com"/> Historically, ''Satanist'' was a pejorative term for those with opinions that differed from predominant religious or moral beliefs.<ref>{{cite book |last=Behrendt | first=Stephen C. | title=The Moment of Explosion: Blake and the Illustration of Milton | publisher=U of Nebraska Press | year=1983 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=KVG8xj9eTyAC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Moment+of+Explosion:+Blake+and+the+Illustration+of+Milton&sig=Xra1QiDxzpom2YAEOzl_6e5HHGc | accessdate=2008-06-06 | page=437}}</ref> Paul Tuitean believes the idea of acts of “reverse Christianity” was created by the Inquisition,<ref>{{cite book |last=Tuitean | first=Paul | coauthor=Estelle Daniels | title=Pocket Guide to Wicca | publisher=The Crossing Press | year=1998 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=l66-vxbEuuYC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Pocket+Guide+to+Wicca&lr=&sig=Y9OtL9SljEGQhuIOU4lZeta_Ci4 |
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| accessdate=2008-06-05 | page=22}}</ref> but George Battaille believes that inversions of Christian rituals such as the Mass may have existed prior to the descriptions of them which were obtained through the [[witchcraft trials]].<ref name=autogenerated7>{{cite book |last=Battaille | first=George | translator=Dalwood, Mary | title=Erotism: Death and Sensuality |publisher=City Lights | year=1986 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=2qdUZZLcnLYC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Erotism:+Death+and+Sensuality&lr=&sig=qUSqkB2c7Hmgm1sjCBJ1JtrNQ_w | accessdate=2008-05-21 | page=126}}</ref> |
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Although [[John Milton]] was not a Theistic Satanist, his [[epic poem]] ''[[Paradise Lost]]'' is an inspiration for Satanism, to the extent that William Blake said of Milton “<nowiki>[he is]</nowiki> a true Poet, and of the Devil's party without knowing it”.<ref>[http://www.kirjasto.sci.fi/jmilton.htm John Milton<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> As well as being the inspiration for the [[Satanic School]] of literature [[John Milton|Milton]], [[Dante Alighieri|Dante]], [[Christopher Marlowe|Marlowe]], and [[Johann Wolfgang von Goethe|Goethe]], are said by Nikolas Schreck to be the foundation of the modern concept of Satan. He argues that these authors had “access to the Luciferian vision” and a “diabolical consciousness” that flourished due to their separation from the common man, “a radical disruption from the norm that allowed the effulgence of the black light to illuminate their work”.<ref name=autogenerated5>[http://www.communistvampires.com/horror/Flowers%20From%20Hell.htm] book review by Thomas M. Sipos of ''Flowers From Hell: A Satanic Reader.''</ref> |
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[[Image:Martin van Maele - La Sorcière 06.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Illustration by [[Martin van Maële]], of a ''[[Witches' Sabbath]]'', in the 1911 edition of ''[[Satanism and Witchcraft|La Sorciere]]'', by [[Jules Michelet]].]] |
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In the 18th century various kinds of popular “Satanic” literature began to be produced in France, including some well-known [[grimoire]]s with instructions for making a [[Deal with the Devil|pact with the Devil]]. The [[Marquis de Sade]] describes defiling crucifixes and other holy objects, and in [[Justine (Sade)|Justine]] gives a fictional account of the [[Black Mass]],<ref>{{cite book |last=Sade | first=Donatien| translators=Paul J. |
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Gillette, John S. Yankowski | title=The Complete Marquis De Sade | |
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pages=157–158 |publisher=Holloway House | year=2006 |
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|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=fOReeGwdFU8C&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Complete+Marquis+De+Sade&lr=&client=firefox-a&sig=5ohshbIHd1Au0Bmw-oT0YsAqLVw |
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|accessdate=2008-05-22}}</ref> although [[Ronald Hayman]] has said Sade's need for blasphemy was an emotional reaction and rebellion from which Sade |
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moved on, seeking to develop a more reasoned atheistic philosophy.<ref> |
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{{cite book |last=Hayman | first=Ronald | title=Marquis de Sade: The Genius of Passion| pages=30–31 | publisher=Tauris Parke | |
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year=2003 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=cubx1wVI4tgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Marquis+de+Sade:+The+Genius+of+Passion&client=firefox-a&sig=x_RgGXYrw7wtamCAmkDpUGMm8Rk |
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| accessdate=2008-05-21}}</ref> |
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In the 19th century, [[Eliphas Levi]] published his French books of the occult, and in 1855 produced his well-known drawing of the [[Baphomet]] which continues to be used by some Satanists today (for example the [[sigil of Baphomet]]). Finally, in 1891, [[Joris-Karl Huysmans]] published his Satanic novel, ''[[Là-Bas]]'', which included a detailed description of a [[Black Mass]] which he may have known first-hand was being performed in Paris at the time,<ref>{{cite book | last=Huysmans | first=Joris-Karl | |
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translator=Keene Wallace | title=La Bas | publisher=Courier Dover | |
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year=1972 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=MkD_JqA9FVgC&printsec=frontcover&dq=L%C3%A0-bas+(Down+There)&lr=&sig=oKRRldNFDMCGYJ-Hn1T6TnvlM3Y |
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|accessdate=2008-05-21 | nopp=true | page=back cover}}</ref> or the account may have been based on the masses carried out by [[Étienne Guibourg]], rather than by Huysmans attending himself.<ref>{{cite book | last=Laver | |
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first=James | title=The First Decadent: Being the Strange Life of J.K. Huysmans| publisher=Faber and Faber | year=1954 |page=121}}</ref> Quotations from Huysmans' Black Mass are also used in some Satanic rituals to this day since it is one of the few sources that purports to describe the words used in a Black Mass. The type of Satanism described in Là-Bas suggests that prayers are said to the Devil, hosts are stolen from the Catholic Church, and sexual acts are combined with [[Roman Catholic]] altar objects and rituals, to produce a variety of Satanism which exalts the Devil and degrades the God of Christianity by inverting Roman Catholic rites. [[George Bataille]] claims that Huysman's description of the Black Mass is “indisputably authentic”.<ref name=autogenerated7 /> Not all Theistic Satanists today routinely perform the Black Mass, possibly because the mass is not a part of modern evangelical Christianity in Protestant countries<ref>{{cite book |last=Christiano | first=Kevin | coauthors=William H. Swatos, Peter Kivisto | title=Sociology of Religion: Contemporary Developments | publisher=Rowman Altamira | year=2001 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=EYtjY7GJav4C&pg=PP1&dq=Sociology+of+Religion:+Contemporary+Developments&sig=iMvmLqUPU2kjPdLEjf8W1hF3gpE | accessdate=2008-06-07 | page=319}}</ref> and so not such an unintentional influence on Satanist practices in those countries. |
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Michael Aquino published a rare 1970 text of a Church of Satan black mass, the ''Missa Solemnis'', in his book ''The Church of Satan'',<ref>{{cite book |last=Aquino |first=Michael |title = The Church of Satan |year=2002}}, Appendix 7.</ref> and [[Anton LaVey]] included a different Church of Satan black mass, the ''Messe Noire'', in his 1972 book ''[[The Satanic Rituals]]''. LaVey's books on Satanism, which began in the 1960s, were for a long time the few available which advertised themselves as being Satanic, although others detailed the history of witchcraft and Satanism, such as ''The Black Arts'' by [[Richard Cavendish (occult writer)|Richard Cavendish]] published in 1967 and the classic French work ''[[Satanism and Witchcraft]]'', by [[Jules Michelet]]. Anton LaVey specifically denounced “devil worshippers” and the idea of praying to Satan. |
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==Preconceptions== |
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{{POV-section|date=November 2011}} |
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Some Christians fear that references to Satan in popular culture and music inspire some people to Theistic Satanism. Although no evidence has been published that music can convert a person to Satanism, [[Christopher Partridge]] has said that regardless of whether the [[heavy metal music]]ians concerned are genuinely Theistic Satanists, through hearing the lyrics for instance of [[Mercyful Fate]] and [[Coven (band)|Coven]]<ref>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=150}}</ref> people may hear for the first time that there are people who are Theistic Satanists, and may be inspired to go on to learn more about and practice Theistic Satanism.<ref>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=121}}</ref> While they may first come upon the more obtainable works of [[Anton LaVey]], who denied belief in the Devil, those who discover his writings may then go on to reach a traditional viewpoint.<ref>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=122}}</ref> Christians may fear that Satanists spend their time blaspheming Christianity,<ref name=autogenerated9>{{cite book | last=Smith | first=Sandra L. | year=2004 | title=Deceptions And End Time Prophecy |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=lItUlBIXNVcC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Deceptions+And+End+Time+Prophecy&lr=&sig=KCpAkgjMYC_VKX3Wocd8eNxlB9Q | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=121}}</ref> but Satanists may not necessarily make that a regular practice.<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/rituals/blasphemy/index.html Blasphemy, catharsis, and self-initiation<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Christians may fear that traditional Satanists may attempt to [[curse]] Christian meetings<ref name=autogenerated9 /> using [[Curse#Cursed_objects|objects believed to be cursed]] or prayer, and indeed some Theistic Satanists do believe that they are practising “spiritual warfare” to accomplish Satan's will.<ref>[http://www.666blacksun.com/Spiritual_Warfare.html Concerning Spiritual Warfare<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
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==Satanism and crime== |
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The [[Satanic ritual abuse]] [[moral panic]] of the 1980s and '90s was centered on fears or beliefs about traditional Satanism sacrificing children and committing crimes as part of rituals involving devil worship.<ref>{{cite book | last = Frankfurter | first = D | authorlink = | title = Evil Incarnate: Rumors of Demonic Conspiracy and Ritual Abuse in History | publisher = [[Princeton University Press]] | year = 2006 | location = Princeton, NJ | pages = | url = http://books.google.com/books?id=ysTcp21NfP0C&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_summary_r&cad=0 | doi = | id = | isbn = 0691113505}}</ref> Allegations included the existence of large networks of organized Satanists involved in illegal activities such as murder, child pornography and prostitution; iconic cases such as the [[McMartin preschool trial]] were launched after children were repeatedly and coercively interrogated by [[social work]]ers, resulting in [[false allegation of child sexual abuse]]. No evidence was ever found to support any of the allegations of Satanism or ritual abuse, but the panic resulted in numerous wrongful prosecutions. |
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John Allee, founder of the First Church of Satan,<ref>http://www.answers.com/topic/first-church-of-satan Encyclopedia of Occultism and Parapsychology, by the Gale Group, Inc.</ref> equates some of the “violent fringe” of Satanism as “Devil worshipers” and “reverse Christians”. He believes they possibly suffer from a form of [[psychosis]].<ref>http://alleeshadowtradition.com/psychosis.html Is Devil Worship A Symptom of Psychosis?</ref> |
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Some studies of crimes have also looked at the theological perspective of those who commit religious or ritualised crime.<ref>{{cite book | last=Yonke | first=David | year=2006 | title=Sin, Shame, and Secrets: The Murder of a Nun, the Conviction of a Priest | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=mQ-l9bqL6AIC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Sin,+Shame,+and&lr=&sig=Zl4uyvBFnexFxEjqRKbS25QodPU | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=150}}</ref> Criminals who explain their crimes by claiming to be Satanists have been said by sociologists to be “pseudo-Satanists”,<ref name=autogenerated12>{{cite book | last=Gallagher | first=Eugene V. | year=2004 | title=The New Religious Movements Experience in America | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=uXoUYS4H1GsC&pg=PA190&dq=%22traditional+satanist%22+date:1500-2008&lr=&num=50&as_brr=0&sig=fneOLz_iRCH9MYEr24SsABy_P_s#PPA197,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12|page=190}}</ref> and attempts to link Satanism to crime have been seen by Theistic Satanists as scaremongering.<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/asp/people/Perlmutter/index.html Dawn Perlmutter and her Institute for the Research of Organized and Ritual Violence<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In the 1980s and the 1990s there were multiple allegations of sexual abuse of children or non-consenting adults in the context of Satanic rituals in what has come to be known as The Satanic Panic. In the United States, the Kern County child abuse cases, McMartin preschool trial and the West Memphis 3 cases were widely reported. One case took place in Jordan, Minnesota, in which children made allegations of manufacturing [[child pornography]], ritualistic [[animal sacrifice]], [[coprophagia]], [[urophagia]] and [[infanticide]], at which point the [[Federal Bureau of Investigation]] (FBI) was alerted. Twenty-four adults were arrested and charged with acts of sexual abuse, child pornography and other crimes claimed to be related to Satanic ritual abuse; three went to trial, two were acquitted and one convicted. Supreme Court Justice Scalia noted in a discussion of the case, “[t]here is no doubt that some sexual abuse took place in Jordan; but there is no reason to believe it was as widespread as charged”, and cited the repeated, coercive techniques used by the investigators as damaging to the investigation. |
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==Values in Theistic Satanism== |
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Seeking knowledge is seen by some Theistic Satanists as important to Satan, due to his being equated with the Serpent in Genesis encouraging mankind to partake of the fruit of the [[Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil]].<ref name=autogenerated3>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=228}}</ref> Some perceive Satan as [[Baphomet]], a hermaphroditic bestower of knowledge ([[gnosis]]). Satanic groups, such as Luciferians, also seek to gain greater gnosis;<ref name="mlo_interview"/> these Satanists view [[Yahweh]] as the [[demiurge]] and [[Satan]] as the transcendent being beyond.<ref name="mlo_interview"/> |
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Self-development is important to Theistic Satanists. This is due to the Satanists' view of Satan, who is seen to encourage individuality and freedom of thought, and the quest to raise one's self up despite resistance, through means such as magic and initiative. They believe Satan wants a more equal relationship with his followers than the Christian God does with his. From a Theistic Satanist perspective, Christianity does not define “good” or “evil” in terms of benefit or harm to humanity, but rather on the submission to or rebellion against God.<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/Muse/evilRose.html Elliot Rose on "Evil"<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Some Satanists seek to remove any means by which they are controlled or repressed by others and follow the herd, and reject non-governmental authoritarianism.<ref name=autogenerated4>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | coauthor=Jesper Aagaard Petersen | title=Controversial New Religions | |
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pages=446–447 | publisher=Oxford University Press | year=2004 |
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|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=e0TfqG3XNmEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Controversial+New+Religions&sig=ZOIBD3jI0X478aRBL_6TSmba3lE |accessdate=2008-05-24}}</ref> |
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As Satan in the Old Testament tests people, theistic Satanists may believe that Satan sends them tests in life in order to develop them as an individual. They value taking responsibility for oneself. Despite the emphasis on self-development, Theistic Satanists often feel that there is a will of Satan for the world and for their own lives. They may promise to help bring about the will of Satan,<ref>{{cite book |last=Mickaharic | first=Draja | title=Practice of Magic: An Introductory Guide to the Art | publisher=Weiser | year=1995 |
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|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=KB1mECtP4OoC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Practice+of+Magic:+An+Introductory+Guide+to+the+Art&sig=0-RdpCk4IETTyqKXHozidvb17tE |accessdate=2008-05-24 | |
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page=62}}</ref> and seek to gain insight about it through [[prayer]], study or [[Magic (paranormal)|magic]]. In the [[temptation of Christ]] in the desert, Satan shows Jesus “all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me” (Matthew 4:8f). Satan is known in the Bible as the prince of this world,<ref>{{cite book | last=Ladd| first=George Eldon| year=1993 | title=A Theology of the New Testament |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=eIdkM00EdlAC&pg=PA333&lpg=PA333&dq=prince+of+this+world&source=web&ots=lfXGcV0Yl5&sig=WNdeJP9zOh24VAyR0Ynzc5uR4d8&hl=en | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=333}}</ref> and Satanists may feel that he can help them meet their needs and desires if they pray or work magic. They would also have to do what they could in everyday life to achieve their goals, however. |
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Theistic Satanists may try not to project an image that reflects negatively on their religion as a whole and reinforces stereotypes, such as promoting Nazism found in a few groups, abuse or crime.<ref name=autogenerated4 /> However, some groups, such as the [[Order of Nine Angles]], criticise the emphasis on promoting a good image for Satanism; the ONA described LaVeyan Satanism as “weak, deluded and American form of ‘sham-Satanic groups, the poseurs’”<ref>[http://www.nineangles.info/commentary-dreamers.pdf ''Commentary on Dreamers of the Dark''].</ref>, and ONA member Stephen Brown claimed that “the Temple of Set seems intent only on creating a ‘good public impression’, with promoting an ‘image’”.<ref>Stephen Brown: ''The Satanic Letters of Stephen Brown: St. Brown to Dr. Aquino'' ([http://www.angelfire.com/rings/blacklotusmonastery/texts/ONA_VariousManuscripts.pdf online version]).</ref> The order emphasises that its way “is and is meant to be dangerous”<ref>[http://www.nineangles.info/true_way_ona.html ''The True Way of the ONA''].</ref> and “[g]enuine Satanists are dangerous people to know; associating with them is a risk”<ref>[http://www.nineangles.info/ona-epitome.html ''Satanism: The Epitome of Evil''].</ref>. In particular, there is argument over animal sacrifice, with most groups seeing it as both unnecessary and putting Satanism in a bad light, and distancing themselves from the few groups that practice it.<ref>[http://theisticsatanism.com/politics/animal-sacr.html Animal Sacrifice and the Law<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
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Some groups like the Misanthropic Luciferian Order have criticized both the [[Church of Satan]] and the [[Temple of Set]] as “trying to make Setianism and the ruler of darkness, Set, into something accepted and harmless, this way attempting to become a ‘big’ religion, accepted and acknowledged by the rest of the [[Judeo-Christian|Judaeo-Christian]] society”.<ref name="mlo_interview"/> The order rejects [[Christianity]], [[Judaism]] and [[Islam]] as “the opposite of everything that strengthens the spirit and is only good for killing what little that is beautiful, noble and honourable in this filthy world”.<ref name="mlo_interview"/> |
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==Diversity of viewpoints within Theistic Satanism== |
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The internet has increased awareness of different views among Satanists, and led to more diverse groups. But Satanism has always been a pluralistic and decentralised religion.<ref name=autogenerated11>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | coauthor=Jesper Aagaard Petersen | title=Controversial New Religions | publisher=Oxford University Press | year=2004 |
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|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=e0TfqG3XNmEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Controversial+New+Religions&sig=ZOIBD3jI0X478aRBL_6TSmba3lE |accessdate=2008-05-24 | |
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page=429}}</ref> Scholars outside [[Satanism]] have sought to study it by categorizing forms of it according to whether they are theistic or atheistic<ref>{{cite book |last=Gallagher |first=Eugene V. |title=The New Religious Movements Experience in America |publisher=Greenwood Publishing |year=2004 |isbn=0313328072 |page=190}}</ref> and referred to the worship of the Devil as traditional Satanism or theistic Satanism.<ref name=autogenerated6 /> It is generally a prerequisite to being considered a theistic Satanist that the Satanist accept a theological and metaphysical canon involving one or more God(s) who are either Satan in the strictest, Abrahamic sense, or a concept of Satan that incorporates gods from other religions (usually pre-Christian), such as [[Ahriman]]. Some Theistic Satanists believe in Satan as the All, a force filling the universe.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | coauthor=Jesper Aagaard Petersen | title=Controversial New Religions | publisher=Oxford University Press | year=2004 |
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|url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=e0TfqG3XNmEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Controversial+New+Religions&sig=ZOIBD3jI0X478aRBL_6TSmba3lE |accessdate=2008-05-24 | |
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page=438}}</ref> Many Theistic Satanists believe their own individualized concept based on pieces of all these diverse views of Satan, according to their inclination and spiritual guidance, rather than only believe in one suggested interpretation. |
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Some may choose to live out the myths and stereotypes, but Christianity is not always the primary frame of reference for Theistic Satanists.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | coauthor=Jesper Aagaard Petersen | title=Controversial New Religions | publisher=Oxford University Press | year=2004 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=e0TfqG3XNmEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Controversial+New+Religions&sig=ZOIBD3jI0X478aRBL_6TSmba3lE | accessdate=2008-05-24 | page=442}}</ref> Their religion may be based on [[neopaganism|dark pagan]], [[left hand path]] and [[occult]] traditions. Theistic Satanists who base their faith on Christian ideas about Satan may be referred to as “Reverse Christians” by other Satanists, often in a pejorative fashion.<ref>[http://archiv.ub.uni-marburg.de/mjr/lewis2.html Marburg Journal of Religion (June 2001) Lewis, James R<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> However, those labeled by some as “reverse Christians” may see their concept of Satan as not diluted or sanitized. They worship a stricter interpretation of Satan: that of the Satan featured in the Christian Bible.<ref>http://web.archive.org/web/20060622092759/http://www.angelfire.com/rebellion2/traditionalsatanism/view.html Archived Cathedral of the Black Goat 'Views' Page</ref> This is not, however, shared by a majority of Theistic Satanists. [[Wicca]]ns may consider most Satanism to be reverse Christianity,<ref>{{cite book |last=Metzger | first=Richard | coauthor=Grant Morrisson | title=Book of Lies: The Disinformation Guide to Magick and the Occult | publisher=The Disinformation Company | year=2003 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=W6IycFk3VZ0C&pg=PA266&dq=%22reverse+christianity%22&sig=-oWUmZOWWbUL6FXp5eCS2KNxqUU#PPA266,M1 | accessdate=2008-06-05 | page=266}}</ref> and the head of the [[Church of Satan]], [[Peter H. Gilmore]], considers “devil worship” to be a Christian heresy, that is, a divergent form of Christianity.<ref name=autogenerated8>[http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/Feared.html Satanism: The Feared Religion<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The diversity of individual viewpoints within Theistic Satanism, while being a cause for intense debates within the religion, is also often seen as a reflection of Satan, who encourages individualism.<ref>{{cite book | last=Susej | first=Tsirk | year=2007 | title=The Demonic Bible |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=BSW_4ohAM8QC&pg=PA11&dq=%22traditional+satanism%22+date:1500-2008&lr=&num=50&as_brr=0&sig=JnTS_53SxlWvpk7fH-RQnG0Nk7Q#PPA12,M1 | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=11}}</ref> |
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A notable group that outwardly considers themselves to be Traditional Satanists is the [[Order of Nine Angles]].<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20060829152745/http://religiousmovements.lib.virginia.edu/nrms/satanism/intro.html#atheistic/theistic Satanism: An Introduction, II. Modern Satanism, hosted on the The Religious Movements Homepage Project]</ref> Controversy meant this group were mentioned in the press and books, as they claimed to practice animal sacrifice<ref>{{cite book |last=Ryan | first=Nick | title=Into a World of Hate: A Journey Among the Extreme Right | publisher=Routledge | year=2004 | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=wOq79eHTJu4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=Into+a+World+of+Hate:+A+Journey+Among+the+Extreme+Right&lr=&sig=NWPkS9dkHvTtreWmveN82b-qVqs | accessdate=2008-06-05 | page=437}}</ref> and agreed with human sacrifice.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | title=Satanism Today: An Encyclopedia of Religion | publisher=ABC-CLIO | year=2001 | isbn=1576077594 | page=234}}</ref> Not surprisingly, they had an authoritarian, even fascist philosophy, one that attracted notoriety. Similar political views are held by the Joy of Satan, who led to some resignations from the [[National Socialist Movement]] when prominent members were discovered to be involved with the Joy of Satan,<ref>[http://www.roanoke.com/news/roanoke/wb/wb/xp-73256 Roanoke landlord resigns from National Socialist Movement - Roanoke.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> to the extent of donations from both organizations when those individuals were involved in the NSM, being asked to be sent to the same post office box address and number.<ref>[http://www.adl.org/learn/extremism_in_america_updates/groups/national_socialist_movement/national+socialist+movement_update_10052006.htm National Socialist Movement: Tensions Lead to Expulsions and Splinter Groups<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The JoS have some idiosyncratic beliefs about spiritual entities being extra terrestrials, valuing the work of [[Zecharia Sitchin]]. A group with very different political views to the ONA is Satanic Reds, whose Satanism has a Communist element.<ref>{{cite book |last=Lewis | first=James R. | title=Satanism Today: An Encyclopedia of Religion | publisher=ABC-CLIO | year=2001 | isbn=1576077594 | page=240}}</ref> However, they are not Theistic Satanist in the manner of believing in Satan as a god with a personality, but believe in dark [[deism]],<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/geifodd/varieties.html Devil Worship<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> the belief that Satan is a presence in nature. The First Church of Satan believe the philosophy propounded by [[Anton LaVey]] himself was deism or [[panentheism]] but is propounded as atheism by the leaders of the Church of Satan in order to distance themselves from what they see as pseudo-Satanists.<ref>[http://www.churchofsatan.org/ Church of Satan Rap Sheet: The Official Site<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
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One other group is the Temple of the Black Light, formerly known as the Misanthropic Luciferian Order. The Temple espouses a philosophy known as “Chaosophy”. Chaosophy asserts that the world that we live in, and the Universe that it lives in, all exists within the realm known as Cosmos. Cosmos is made of three spatial dimensions and one linear time dimension. Cosmos rarely ever changes and is a materialistic realm. Another realm that exists is known as Chaos. Chaos exists outside of the Cosmos and is made of infinite dimensions and unlike the Cosmos, it is always changing. Followers in the Temple believe that the realm of Chaos is ruled over by 11 dark Gods, the highest of them being Satan, all considered manifestations of a higher being. This higher being is known as Azerate, the Dragon Mother, and is all the 11 gods united as one. The Temple believes that Azerate will resurrect one day and destroy the Cosmos and let Chaos consume everything. The group has been connected to the Swedish [[Black metal|black]]/[[death metal]] band [[Dissection (band)|Dissection]], particularly its front man [[Jon Nödtveidt]].<ref name="mlo_interview">{{cite web|url=http://www.angelfire.com/extreme/slayermagazine/interview_mlo2.html |title=Interview_MLO |publisher=Angelfire.com |accessdate=2011-11-30}}</ref> Nödtveidt was introduced to the group “at an early stage”.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metalcentre.com/webzine.php?p=interviews&lang=eng&nr=123 |title=Dissection. Interview with Jon Nödtveidt. June 2003 |publisher=Metal Centre |accessdate=2011-11-30}}</ref> The lyrics on the band's third album, ''[[Reinkaos]]'', are all about beliefs of the Temple of the Black Light.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dissection.nu/disc/reinkaos.htm |title=Official Dissection Website :: Reinkaos |publisher=Dissection.nu |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20080422085809/http://www.dissection.nu/disc/reinkaos.htm |archivedate=2011-11-30}}</ref> Nödtveidt committed suicide in 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metalstorm.ee/events/news_comments.php?news_id=3051 |title=Dissection Frontman Jon Nödtveidt Commits Suicide |publisher=Metal Storm |date=2006-08-18 |accessdate=2011-11-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=56947 |title=Dissection Guitarist: Jon Nödtveidt Didn't Have Copy of 'The Satanic Bible' at Suicide Scene |publisher=Blabbermouth |date=2006-08-23 |accessdate=2011-11-30}}</ref> |
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[[Image:Talis02.png|thumb|150px|right|Theistic Satanists may respectfully work with demons found in traditional [[grimoire]]s.]] |
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[[Image:Mihály Zichy Lucifer 1887.jpeg|thumb|200px|left|Lucifer (in the lower right) shown in a defiant pose.]] |
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[[Luciferianism|Luciferian]] groups such as the Church of Lucifer and the Children of the Black Rose are particularly inspired by [[Lucifer]] (from the Latin for ‘bearer of light’), who they may or may not equate with Satan. While some theologians believe the son of the dawn, Lucifer and other names were actually used to refer to contemporary political figures, such as a Babylonian King, rather than a single spiritual entity<ref>[http://www.realdevil.info/5-5.htm Lucifer King Of Babylon<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.wrestedscriptures.com/b07satan/isaiah14v12-14.html Satan, Devil and Demons - Isaiah 14:12-14<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.apologeticspress.org/articles/2215 Apologetics Press - Is Satan “Lucifer"?<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> (although on the surface the Bible explicitly refers to the King of Babylon), those that believe it refers to Satan infer that by implication it also applies to the fall of Satan.<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04764a.htm Catholic Encyclopedia: Devil<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The Church of the Black Goat believe Satan and Lucifer are the same being in his light and dark aspects. Some writers equate the veneration of Set by the [[Temple of Set]] to theistic Satanism;<ref name=autogenerated6 /> however, the Temple of Set do not identify as Theistic Satanists. They believe the Egyptian deity Set is the real Dark Lord behind the name Satan, of whom Satan is just a caricature. Their practices primarily center on self-development. Within the temple of Set, the Black Flame is the individual's god-like core which is a kindred spirit to Set, and they seek to develop. In Theistic Satanism, the Black Flame is knowledge which was given to humanity by Satan, who is a being independent of the Satanist himself<ref>{{cite book | last=Ford | first=Michael | year=2005 | title=Luciferian Witchcraft |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Jv_gilqk-pwC&pg=PA373&dq=%22black+flame%22+satan&lr=&sig=xX8XJPGG_-8fjt2pD4zVmCPEJao#PPA373,M1 | accessdate=2008-06-05 |page=373}}</ref> and which he can dispense to the Satanist who seeks knowledge.<ref name=autogenerated10>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Re-enchantment+of+the+West&lr=&sig=BmuWhU0n3TzA3fd4NfIBDPuCFjo#PPP1,M1 | accessdate=2008-06-05 |page=82}}</ref> |
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The diversity of views amongst Satanists, and the theistic nature of some Satanists, was seen in a survey in 1995. Some spoke of seeing Satan not as someone dangerous to those who seek or worship him, but as someone that could be approached as a friend. Some refer to him as ''Father'', though some other Theistic Satanists consider that to be confused or excessively subservient.<ref>{{cite book | last=Pike | first=Randall | year=2007 | title=The Man with Confused Eyes | url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Gc_5ulVoKe0C&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+Man+with+Confused+Eyes&lr=&sig=QQEyatC_41l-s_eSGcga8y7JSiE | accessdate=2008-05-12}}</ref> However, referring to Satan as his follower's father occurs in the Bible (John 8:44). Satan is also portrayed as a father to his daughter, Sin, by [[John Milton|Milton]] in ''[[Paradise Lost]]''. |
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Many groups such as the 600 Club,<ref name=autogenerated11 /> are accepting of all types of Satanist, as are the Sinagogue of Satan, which aims for the ultimate destruction of religions, paradoxically including itself, and encourages not self-indulgence, but self-expression balanced by social responsibility.<ref>{{cite book | last=Brown | first=Seth | year=2004 | title=Think You're the Only One? Oddball Groups Where Outsiders Fit In | pages=99–100 | publisher=Barnes and Noble | isbn=0760757089}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | last=John | first=Mitchell | year=2009 | title=Local writer compiles directory of unusual organizations | publisher=http://www.lastvisibledog.org/berkshirearts/Seth_Brown.html}}</ref><ref>{{ cite book | last=Mathews | first=Chris | year=2009 | title=Modern Satanism: anatomy of a radical subculture | page=92 |publisher=Praeger Publishers | isbn=978-0-313-36639-0}}</ref> |
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Theistic Satanism often involves a religious commitment{{says who?|date=November 2011}} rather than being simply an [[occult]] practice based on dabbling or transient enjoyment of the rituals and magic involved.<ref name=autogenerated12 /><ref>{{cite book | last=Partridge | first=Christopher Hugh | year=2004 | title=The Re-enchantment of the West |url=http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=g05THJPH5xUC&pg=PA82&dq=%22traditional+satanism%22+date:1500-2008&lr=&num=50&as_brr=0&sig=YlACk-aeMwxBaflwts3p75efm5E | accessdate=2008-05-12 |page=83}}</ref> Practitioners may choose to perform a self-dedication rite, although there are arguments over whether it is best to do this at the beginning of their time as a Theistic Satanist, or once they have been practicing for some time.<ref>[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/rituals/pact/pact-init.html#oath Pacts and self-initiation<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> |
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== See also == |
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* [[Satanism]] |
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* [[Azazel]] |
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* [[Devil]] |
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* [[Left Hand Path]] |
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* [[Luciferianism]] |
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* [[Palladists]] |
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* [[Stregheria]] |
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* [[magic (paranormal)|Magic]] |
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* [[Folk religion]] |
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* [[God as the Devil]] |
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* [[Moral panic]] |
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==References== |
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{{reflist|2}} |
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==Further reading== |
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* Ellis, Bill, ''Raising the Devil: Satanism, New Religions and the Media'' (Lexington: [[University Press of Kentucky]], 2000). |
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* Hertenstein, Mike; Jon Trott, ''Selling Satan: The Evangelical Media and the Mike Warnke Scandal'' (Chicago: Cornerstone, 1993). |
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* Brown, Seth; ''Think you're the only one?'' (Barnes & Noble Books 2004) |
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* Medway, Gareth J.; ''The Lure of the Sinister: The Unnatural History of Satanism'' (New York and London: New York University Press, 2001). |
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* [[Jules Michelet|Michelet, Jules]], ''[[Satanism and Witchcraft]]: A Study in Medieval Superstition'' (English translation of 1862 French work). |
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* Palermo, George B.; Michele C. Del Re: ''Satanism: Psychiatric and Legal Views'' (American Series in Behavioral Science and Law) . Charles C Thomas Pub Ltd (November 1999) |
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* [[Albert Pike|Pike, Albert]], ''[[Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry|Morals and Dogma]]'' (1871) |
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* Richardson, James T.; Joel Best; [[David G. Bromley]], ''The Satanism Scare'' (New York: Aldine de Gruyter, 1991). |
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* Vera, Diane, ''[http://www.theisticsatanism.com/ Theistic Satanism]: The new Satanisms of the era of the Internet'' |
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* {{cite book | author=Karlsson, Thomas| title=Qabalah, Qliphoth and Goetic Magic | month=February | year=2008 | isbn=0972182012}} |
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* {{cite book | author=Ford, Michael| title=Luciferian Witchcraft | month=March | year=2005 | isbn=1411626389}} |
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* Baddeley, Gavin; ''[[Lucifer Rising]], A Book of Sin, Devil Worship and Rock 'n' Roll'' (Plexus Publishing, November 1999) |
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* {{cite book | author=Webb, Don| title=Uncle Setnakt's Essential Guide to the Left Hand Path | month=March | year=1999 | isbn= 1885972105 }} |
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* {{cite book | author=Zacharias, Gerhard| title=The Satanic Cult | year=1980 | isbn= 0041330080 }} Translated from the German ''Satanskult und Schwarze Messe'' by Christine Trollope. |
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== External links == |
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* [http://altreligion.about.com/library/bl_theisticsatanism.htm Articles and essays about Theistic Satanism] from [[about.com]] |
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* [http://www.theisticsatanism.com/other.html Theistic Satanism and Left Hand Path oriented links] |
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* {{dmoz|Society/Religion_and_Spirituality/Esoteric_and_Occult/Satanism/Organizations|Satanism Organizations}} |
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[[Category:Satanism]] |
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[[Category:Left-Hand Path]] |
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[[Category:Religious faiths, traditions, and movements]] |
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[[Category:Luciferianism]] |
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[[es:Satanismo tradicional]] |
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[[he:כת השטן]] |
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[[nl:Theïstisch satanisme]] |
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[[pt:Satanismo Teísta]] |
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[[fi:Saatananpalvonta]] |
Revision as of 17:00, 16 February 2012
![]() | This article may have misleading content.(November 2011) |
![]() | This article contains weasel words: vague phrasing that often accompanies biased or unverifiable information. (October 2009) |
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4c/Lucifersigilen.jpg)
Theistic Satanism, sometimes referred to as Traditional Satanism, Spiritual Satanism or Devil Worship, is a form of Satanism with the primary belief that Satan is an actual deity or force to revere or worship.[1][2] Other characteristics of Theistic Satanism may include a belief in magic, which is manipulated through ritual.[3] Unlike LaVeyan Satanism founded by Anton LaVey in the 1960s, Theistic Satanism is theistic[3] as opposed to atheistic, believing that Satan (Hebrew: הַשָׂטָן ha-Satan, ‘the accuser’) is a real being[3] rather than a symbol of individualism.
The history of Theistic Satanism, and assessments of its existence and prevalence in history, is obscured by it having been grounds for execution at some times in the past, and due to people having been accused of it who did not consider themselves to worship Satan, such as in the witch trials in Early Modern Europe. Most of Theistic Satanism exists in relatively new models and ideologies, and many claiming to not be involved with Christianity at all.[4][5][6]
Possible history of Theistic Satanism
The worship of Satan was a frequent charge against those charged in the witch trials in Early Modern Europe and other witch-hunts such as the Salem witch trials. Worship of Satan was claimed to take place at the witches' sabbat.[7] The charge of Satan worship has also been made against groups or individuals regarded with suspicion, such as the Knights Templar, or minority religions.[8] It is not known to what extent accusations of groups worshiping Satan in the time of the witch trials identified people who did consider themselves Satanists, rather than being the result of religious superstition or mass hysteria, or charges made against individuals suffering from mental illness. Confessions are unreliable, particularly as they were usually obtained under torture.[9] However, noted scholar Jeffrey Burton Russell, Professor Emeritus of the University of California at Santa Barbara, has made extensive arguments in his book Witchcraft in the Middle Ages[10] that not all witch trial records can be dismissed and that there is in fact evidence linking witchcraft to gnostic heresies. Russell comes to this conclusion after having studied the source documents themselves. Individuals involved in the poison affair were accused of Satanism and witchcraft.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a4/Baphomet.png/150px-Baphomet.png)
Some members of Ordo Flammeus Serpens (OFS), a group that venerates demons, say that they were trained by a traditional family sect, or are generational demonolaters whose religion has been passed down through the family.[11] Claims such as these are unproven.[12] Tani Jantsang of Satanic Reds refers to herself as a generational Satanist,[13] but what she means by that is that her family would have been labelled Satanic by Christianity, although they are in fact “non-Islamic Turko-Tatar”.[14] Theistic Satanists are inspired by incidences they see as evidence of previous followers of their faith. The concept of Satan may incorporate elements from older religions than Judaism. Ha-satan is the role of one of Yahweh's court, whose duties include testing the faith of humanity; the concept may be derived from a judicial function in Israeli court, similar to a prosecuting attorney.[15] The Jewish Encyclopedia says that parts of the Old Testament where Satan is seen to act independently of God may have been influenced by Zoroastrianism;[16] however, the same article states that “The Angelology of the Talmud, moreover, proves that, according to the older view (until about 200 C.E.), punishment was inflicted by angels and not by Satan. In the course of time, however, official Judaism, beginning perhaps with Johanan (d. 279), absorbed the popular concepts of Satan, which doubtless forced their way gradually from the lower classes to the most cultured.”[17] and that according to later Talmudic tradition about Satan “He is the incarnation of all evil, and his thoughts and activities are devoted to the destruction of man; so that Satan, the impulse to evil (‘yeẓer ha-ra’), and the angel of death are one and the same personality. He descends from heaven and leads astray, then ascends and brings accusations against mankind.”[17] Historically, Satanist was a pejorative term for those with opinions that differed from predominant religious or moral beliefs.[18] Paul Tuitean believes the idea of acts of “reverse Christianity” was created by the Inquisition,[19] but George Battaille believes that inversions of Christian rituals such as the Mass may have existed prior to the descriptions of them which were obtained through the witchcraft trials.[20]
Although John Milton was not a Theistic Satanist, his epic poem Paradise Lost is an inspiration for Satanism, to the extent that William Blake said of Milton “[he is] a true Poet, and of the Devil's party without knowing it”.[21] As well as being the inspiration for the Satanic School of literature Milton, Dante, Marlowe, and Goethe, are said by Nikolas Schreck to be the foundation of the modern concept of Satan. He argues that these authors had “access to the Luciferian vision” and a “diabolical consciousness” that flourished due to their separation from the common man, “a radical disruption from the norm that allowed the effulgence of the black light to illuminate their work”.[22]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1a/Martin_van_Maele_-_La_Sorci%C3%A8re_06.jpg/200px-Martin_van_Maele_-_La_Sorci%C3%A8re_06.jpg)
In the 18th century various kinds of popular “Satanic” literature began to be produced in France, including some well-known grimoires with instructions for making a pact with the Devil. The Marquis de Sade describes defiling crucifixes and other holy objects, and in Justine gives a fictional account of the Black Mass,[23] although Ronald Hayman has said Sade's need for blasphemy was an emotional reaction and rebellion from which Sade moved on, seeking to develop a more reasoned atheistic philosophy.[24] In the 19th century, Eliphas Levi published his French books of the occult, and in 1855 produced his well-known drawing of the Baphomet which continues to be used by some Satanists today (for example the sigil of Baphomet). Finally, in 1891, Joris-Karl Huysmans published his Satanic novel, Là-Bas, which included a detailed description of a Black Mass which he may have known first-hand was being performed in Paris at the time,[25] or the account may have been based on the masses carried out by Étienne Guibourg, rather than by Huysmans attending himself.[26] Quotations from Huysmans' Black Mass are also used in some Satanic rituals to this day since it is one of the few sources that purports to describe the words used in a Black Mass. The type of Satanism described in Là-Bas suggests that prayers are said to the Devil, hosts are stolen from the Catholic Church, and sexual acts are combined with Roman Catholic altar objects and rituals, to produce a variety of Satanism which exalts the Devil and degrades the God of Christianity by inverting Roman Catholic rites. George Bataille claims that Huysman's description of the Black Mass is “indisputably authentic”.[20] Not all Theistic Satanists today routinely perform the Black Mass, possibly because the mass is not a part of modern evangelical Christianity in Protestant countries[27] and so not such an unintentional influence on Satanist practices in those countries.
Michael Aquino published a rare 1970 text of a Church of Satan black mass, the Missa Solemnis, in his book The Church of Satan,[28] and Anton LaVey included a different Church of Satan black mass, the Messe Noire, in his 1972 book The Satanic Rituals. LaVey's books on Satanism, which began in the 1960s, were for a long time the few available which advertised themselves as being Satanic, although others detailed the history of witchcraft and Satanism, such as The Black Arts by Richard Cavendish published in 1967 and the classic French work Satanism and Witchcraft, by Jules Michelet. Anton LaVey specifically denounced “devil worshippers” and the idea of praying to Satan.
Preconceptions
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Some Christians fear that references to Satan in popular culture and music inspire some people to Theistic Satanism. Although no evidence has been published that music can convert a person to Satanism, Christopher Partridge has said that regardless of whether the heavy metal musicians concerned are genuinely Theistic Satanists, through hearing the lyrics for instance of Mercyful Fate and Coven[29] people may hear for the first time that there are people who are Theistic Satanists, and may be inspired to go on to learn more about and practice Theistic Satanism.[30] While they may first come upon the more obtainable works of Anton LaVey, who denied belief in the Devil, those who discover his writings may then go on to reach a traditional viewpoint.[31] Christians may fear that Satanists spend their time blaspheming Christianity,[32] but Satanists may not necessarily make that a regular practice.[33] Christians may fear that traditional Satanists may attempt to curse Christian meetings[32] using objects believed to be cursed or prayer, and indeed some Theistic Satanists do believe that they are practising “spiritual warfare” to accomplish Satan's will.[34]
Satanism and crime
The Satanic ritual abuse moral panic of the 1980s and '90s was centered on fears or beliefs about traditional Satanism sacrificing children and committing crimes as part of rituals involving devil worship.[35] Allegations included the existence of large networks of organized Satanists involved in illegal activities such as murder, child pornography and prostitution; iconic cases such as the McMartin preschool trial were launched after children were repeatedly and coercively interrogated by social workers, resulting in false allegation of child sexual abuse. No evidence was ever found to support any of the allegations of Satanism or ritual abuse, but the panic resulted in numerous wrongful prosecutions.
John Allee, founder of the First Church of Satan,[36] equates some of the “violent fringe” of Satanism as “Devil worshipers” and “reverse Christians”. He believes they possibly suffer from a form of psychosis.[37]
Some studies of crimes have also looked at the theological perspective of those who commit religious or ritualised crime.[38] Criminals who explain their crimes by claiming to be Satanists have been said by sociologists to be “pseudo-Satanists”,[39] and attempts to link Satanism to crime have been seen by Theistic Satanists as scaremongering.[40] In the 1980s and the 1990s there were multiple allegations of sexual abuse of children or non-consenting adults in the context of Satanic rituals in what has come to be known as The Satanic Panic. In the United States, the Kern County child abuse cases, McMartin preschool trial and the West Memphis 3 cases were widely reported. One case took place in Jordan, Minnesota, in which children made allegations of manufacturing child pornography, ritualistic animal sacrifice, coprophagia, urophagia and infanticide, at which point the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was alerted. Twenty-four adults were arrested and charged with acts of sexual abuse, child pornography and other crimes claimed to be related to Satanic ritual abuse; three went to trial, two were acquitted and one convicted. Supreme Court Justice Scalia noted in a discussion of the case, “[t]here is no doubt that some sexual abuse took place in Jordan; but there is no reason to believe it was as widespread as charged”, and cited the repeated, coercive techniques used by the investigators as damaging to the investigation.
Values in Theistic Satanism
Seeking knowledge is seen by some Theistic Satanists as important to Satan, due to his being equated with the Serpent in Genesis encouraging mankind to partake of the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.[41] Some perceive Satan as Baphomet, a hermaphroditic bestower of knowledge (gnosis). Satanic groups, such as Luciferians, also seek to gain greater gnosis;[3] these Satanists view Yahweh as the demiurge and Satan as the transcendent being beyond.[3]
Self-development is important to Theistic Satanists. This is due to the Satanists' view of Satan, who is seen to encourage individuality and freedom of thought, and the quest to raise one's self up despite resistance, through means such as magic and initiative. They believe Satan wants a more equal relationship with his followers than the Christian God does with his. From a Theistic Satanist perspective, Christianity does not define “good” or “evil” in terms of benefit or harm to humanity, but rather on the submission to or rebellion against God.[42] Some Satanists seek to remove any means by which they are controlled or repressed by others and follow the herd, and reject non-governmental authoritarianism.[43]
As Satan in the Old Testament tests people, theistic Satanists may believe that Satan sends them tests in life in order to develop them as an individual. They value taking responsibility for oneself. Despite the emphasis on self-development, Theistic Satanists often feel that there is a will of Satan for the world and for their own lives. They may promise to help bring about the will of Satan,[44] and seek to gain insight about it through prayer, study or magic. In the temptation of Christ in the desert, Satan shows Jesus “all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me” (Matthew 4:8f). Satan is known in the Bible as the prince of this world,[45] and Satanists may feel that he can help them meet their needs and desires if they pray or work magic. They would also have to do what they could in everyday life to achieve their goals, however.
Theistic Satanists may try not to project an image that reflects negatively on their religion as a whole and reinforces stereotypes, such as promoting Nazism found in a few groups, abuse or crime.[43] However, some groups, such as the Order of Nine Angles, criticise the emphasis on promoting a good image for Satanism; the ONA described LaVeyan Satanism as “weak, deluded and American form of ‘sham-Satanic groups, the poseurs’”[46], and ONA member Stephen Brown claimed that “the Temple of Set seems intent only on creating a ‘good public impression’, with promoting an ‘image’”.[47] The order emphasises that its way “is and is meant to be dangerous”[48] and “[g]enuine Satanists are dangerous people to know; associating with them is a risk”[49]. In particular, there is argument over animal sacrifice, with most groups seeing it as both unnecessary and putting Satanism in a bad light, and distancing themselves from the few groups that practice it.[50]
Some groups like the Misanthropic Luciferian Order have criticized both the Church of Satan and the Temple of Set as “trying to make Setianism and the ruler of darkness, Set, into something accepted and harmless, this way attempting to become a ‘big’ religion, accepted and acknowledged by the rest of the Judaeo-Christian society”.[3] The order rejects Christianity, Judaism and Islam as “the opposite of everything that strengthens the spirit and is only good for killing what little that is beautiful, noble and honourable in this filthy world”.[3]
Diversity of viewpoints within Theistic Satanism
The internet has increased awareness of different views among Satanists, and led to more diverse groups. But Satanism has always been a pluralistic and decentralised religion.[51] Scholars outside Satanism have sought to study it by categorizing forms of it according to whether they are theistic or atheistic[52] and referred to the worship of the Devil as traditional Satanism or theistic Satanism.[1] It is generally a prerequisite to being considered a theistic Satanist that the Satanist accept a theological and metaphysical canon involving one or more God(s) who are either Satan in the strictest, Abrahamic sense, or a concept of Satan that incorporates gods from other religions (usually pre-Christian), such as Ahriman. Some Theistic Satanists believe in Satan as the All, a force filling the universe.[53] Many Theistic Satanists believe their own individualized concept based on pieces of all these diverse views of Satan, according to their inclination and spiritual guidance, rather than only believe in one suggested interpretation. Some may choose to live out the myths and stereotypes, but Christianity is not always the primary frame of reference for Theistic Satanists.[54] Their religion may be based on dark pagan, left hand path and occult traditions. Theistic Satanists who base their faith on Christian ideas about Satan may be referred to as “Reverse Christians” by other Satanists, often in a pejorative fashion.[55] However, those labeled by some as “reverse Christians” may see their concept of Satan as not diluted or sanitized. They worship a stricter interpretation of Satan: that of the Satan featured in the Christian Bible.[56] This is not, however, shared by a majority of Theistic Satanists. Wiccans may consider most Satanism to be reverse Christianity,[57] and the head of the Church of Satan, Peter H. Gilmore, considers “devil worship” to be a Christian heresy, that is, a divergent form of Christianity.[58] The diversity of individual viewpoints within Theistic Satanism, while being a cause for intense debates within the religion, is also often seen as a reflection of Satan, who encourages individualism.[59]
A notable group that outwardly considers themselves to be Traditional Satanists is the Order of Nine Angles.[60] Controversy meant this group were mentioned in the press and books, as they claimed to practice animal sacrifice[61] and agreed with human sacrifice.[62] Not surprisingly, they had an authoritarian, even fascist philosophy, one that attracted notoriety. Similar political views are held by the Joy of Satan, who led to some resignations from the National Socialist Movement when prominent members were discovered to be involved with the Joy of Satan,[63] to the extent of donations from both organizations when those individuals were involved in the NSM, being asked to be sent to the same post office box address and number.[64] The JoS have some idiosyncratic beliefs about spiritual entities being extra terrestrials, valuing the work of Zecharia Sitchin. A group with very different political views to the ONA is Satanic Reds, whose Satanism has a Communist element.[65] However, they are not Theistic Satanist in the manner of believing in Satan as a god with a personality, but believe in dark deism,[66] the belief that Satan is a presence in nature. The First Church of Satan believe the philosophy propounded by Anton LaVey himself was deism or panentheism but is propounded as atheism by the leaders of the Church of Satan in order to distance themselves from what they see as pseudo-Satanists.[67]
One other group is the Temple of the Black Light, formerly known as the Misanthropic Luciferian Order. The Temple espouses a philosophy known as “Chaosophy”. Chaosophy asserts that the world that we live in, and the Universe that it lives in, all exists within the realm known as Cosmos. Cosmos is made of three spatial dimensions and one linear time dimension. Cosmos rarely ever changes and is a materialistic realm. Another realm that exists is known as Chaos. Chaos exists outside of the Cosmos and is made of infinite dimensions and unlike the Cosmos, it is always changing. Followers in the Temple believe that the realm of Chaos is ruled over by 11 dark Gods, the highest of them being Satan, all considered manifestations of a higher being. This higher being is known as Azerate, the Dragon Mother, and is all the 11 gods united as one. The Temple believes that Azerate will resurrect one day and destroy the Cosmos and let Chaos consume everything. The group has been connected to the Swedish black/death metal band Dissection, particularly its front man Jon Nödtveidt.[3] Nödtveidt was introduced to the group “at an early stage”.[68] The lyrics on the band's third album, Reinkaos, are all about beliefs of the Temple of the Black Light.[69] Nödtveidt committed suicide in 2006.[70][71]
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ee/Talis02.png/150px-Talis02.png)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8d/Mih%C3%A1ly_Zichy_Lucifer_1887.jpeg/200px-Mih%C3%A1ly_Zichy_Lucifer_1887.jpeg)
Luciferian groups such as the Church of Lucifer and the Children of the Black Rose are particularly inspired by Lucifer (from the Latin for ‘bearer of light’), who they may or may not equate with Satan. While some theologians believe the son of the dawn, Lucifer and other names were actually used to refer to contemporary political figures, such as a Babylonian King, rather than a single spiritual entity[72][73][74] (although on the surface the Bible explicitly refers to the King of Babylon), those that believe it refers to Satan infer that by implication it also applies to the fall of Satan.[75] The Church of the Black Goat believe Satan and Lucifer are the same being in his light and dark aspects. Some writers equate the veneration of Set by the Temple of Set to theistic Satanism;[1] however, the Temple of Set do not identify as Theistic Satanists. They believe the Egyptian deity Set is the real Dark Lord behind the name Satan, of whom Satan is just a caricature. Their practices primarily center on self-development. Within the temple of Set, the Black Flame is the individual's god-like core which is a kindred spirit to Set, and they seek to develop. In Theistic Satanism, the Black Flame is knowledge which was given to humanity by Satan, who is a being independent of the Satanist himself[76] and which he can dispense to the Satanist who seeks knowledge.[77]
The diversity of views amongst Satanists, and the theistic nature of some Satanists, was seen in a survey in 1995. Some spoke of seeing Satan not as someone dangerous to those who seek or worship him, but as someone that could be approached as a friend. Some refer to him as Father, though some other Theistic Satanists consider that to be confused or excessively subservient.[78] However, referring to Satan as his follower's father occurs in the Bible (John 8:44). Satan is also portrayed as a father to his daughter, Sin, by Milton in Paradise Lost.
Many groups such as the 600 Club,[51] are accepting of all types of Satanist, as are the Sinagogue of Satan, which aims for the ultimate destruction of religions, paradoxically including itself, and encourages not self-indulgence, but self-expression balanced by social responsibility.[79][80][81]
Theistic Satanism often involves a religious commitment[according to whom?] rather than being simply an occult practice based on dabbling or transient enjoyment of the rituals and magic involved.[39][82] Practitioners may choose to perform a self-dedication rite, although there are arguments over whether it is best to do this at the beginning of their time as a Theistic Satanist, or once they have been practicing for some time.[83]
See also
- Satanism
- Azazel
- Devil
- Left Hand Path
- Luciferianism
- Palladists
- Stregheria
- Magic
- Folk religion
- God as the Devil
- Moral panic
References
- ^ a b c Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 82. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Prayers to Satan
- ^ a b c d e f g h "Interview_MLO". Angelfire.com. Retrieved 2011-11-30.
- ^ http://www.templeoftheisticsatanism.com/archives/112/origins-satanism The Origins of Satanism
- ^ http://www.angelfire.com/empire/serpentis666/Satan.html Joy of Satan 'About Satan' Page
- ^ http://voiceofsatanism.com/2010/09/21/origins-of-satanism-why-sumeria/ The Origins of Satan, Why Sumeria?
- ^ http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan#PPA2,M1 Servants of Satan, page 2
- ^ http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan Servants of Satan, page 22
- ^ http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=D6-w4mlWup4C&printsec=frontcover&dq=servants+of+satan#PPA11,M1 Servants of Satan, page 12
- ^ http://books.google.com/books?id=LsjagvvkveEC&printsec=frontcover&dq=witchcraft+in+the+jeffrey+burton+russell&source=bl&ots=aucjBY8pRY&sig=6M0qG_s1_M3eZRnPA4jwCEhvEak&hl=en&ei=NBqNTMq-EY2csQPxxLydBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCUQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q&f=false
- ^ OFS Demonolatry
- ^ Black Goat Cabal: traditional Satanism
- ^ Lewis, James R. (2004). Controversial New Religions. Oxford University Press. p. 437. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Satanic Reds
- ^ Grenz, Stanley J. (2000). Theology for the Community of God. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing. p. 226. Retrieved 2008-06-06.
- ^ "Jewish Encyclopaedia".
- ^ a b http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/view.jsp?artid=270&letter=S&search=Satan#915
- ^ Behrendt, Stephen C. (1983). The Moment of Explosion: Blake and the Illustration of Milton. U of Nebraska Press. p. 437. Retrieved 2008-06-06.
- ^ Tuitean, Paul (1998). Pocket Guide to Wicca. The Crossing Press. p. 22. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ a b Battaille, George (1986). Erotism: Death and Sensuality. Translated by Dalwood, Mary. City Lights. p. 126. Retrieved 2008-05-21.
- ^ John Milton
- ^ [1] book review by Thomas M. Sipos of Flowers From Hell: A Satanic Reader.
- ^ Sade, Donatien (2006). The Complete Marquis De Sade. Holloway House. pp. 157–158. Retrieved 2008-05-22.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|translators=
ignored (help) - ^ Hayman, Ronald (2003). Marquis de Sade: The Genius of Passion. Tauris Parke. pp. 30–31. Retrieved 2008-05-21.
- ^ Huysmans, Joris-Karl (1972). La Bas. Translated by Keene Wallace. Courier Dover. back cover. Retrieved 2008-05-21.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|nopp=
ignored (|no-pp=
suggested) (help) - ^ Laver, James (1954). The First Decadent: Being the Strange Life of J.K. Huysmans. Faber and Faber. p. 121.
- ^ Christiano, Kevin (2001). Sociology of Religion: Contemporary Developments. Rowman Altamira. p. 319. Retrieved 2008-06-07.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Aquino, Michael (2002). The Church of Satan., Appendix 7.
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 150. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 121. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 122. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ a b Smith, Sandra L. (2004). Deceptions And End Time Prophecy. p. 121. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Blasphemy, catharsis, and self-initiation
- ^ Concerning Spiritual Warfare
- ^ Frankfurter, D (2006). Evil Incarnate: Rumors of Demonic Conspiracy and Ritual Abuse in History. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. ISBN 0691113505.
- ^ http://www.answers.com/topic/first-church-of-satan Encyclopedia of Occultism and Parapsychology, by the Gale Group, Inc.
- ^ http://alleeshadowtradition.com/psychosis.html Is Devil Worship A Symptom of Psychosis?
- ^ Yonke, David (2006). Sin, Shame, and Secrets: The Murder of a Nun, the Conviction of a Priest. p. 150. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ a b Gallagher, Eugene V. (2004). The New Religious Movements Experience in America. p. 190. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Dawn Perlmutter and her Institute for the Research of Organized and Ritual Violence
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 228. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Elliot Rose on "Evil"
- ^ a b Lewis, James R. (2004). Controversial New Religions. Oxford University Press. pp. 446–447. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Mickaharic, Draja (1995). Practice of Magic: An Introductory Guide to the Art. Weiser. p. 62. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
- ^ Ladd, George Eldon (1993). A Theology of the New Testament. p. 333. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Commentary on Dreamers of the Dark.
- ^ Stephen Brown: The Satanic Letters of Stephen Brown: St. Brown to Dr. Aquino (online version).
- ^ The True Way of the ONA.
- ^ Satanism: The Epitome of Evil.
- ^ Animal Sacrifice and the Law
- ^ a b Lewis, James R. (2004). Controversial New Religions. Oxford University Press. p. 429. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Gallagher, Eugene V. (2004). The New Religious Movements Experience in America. Greenwood Publishing. p. 190. ISBN 0313328072.
- ^ Lewis, James R. (2004). Controversial New Religions. Oxford University Press. p. 438. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Lewis, James R. (2004). Controversial New Religions. Oxford University Press. p. 442. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Marburg Journal of Religion (June 2001) Lewis, James R
- ^ http://web.archive.org/web/20060622092759/http://www.angelfire.com/rebellion2/traditionalsatanism/view.html Archived Cathedral of the Black Goat 'Views' Page
- ^ Metzger, Richard (2003). Book of Lies: The Disinformation Guide to Magick and the Occult. The Disinformation Company. p. 266. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthor=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Satanism: The Feared Religion
- ^ Susej, Tsirk (2007). The Demonic Bible. p. 11. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Satanism: An Introduction, II. Modern Satanism, hosted on the The Religious Movements Homepage Project
- ^ Ryan, Nick (2004). Into a World of Hate: A Journey Among the Extreme Right. Routledge. p. 437. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
- ^ Lewis, James R. (2001). Satanism Today: An Encyclopedia of Religion. ABC-CLIO. p. 234. ISBN 1576077594.
- ^ Roanoke landlord resigns from National Socialist Movement - Roanoke.com
- ^ National Socialist Movement: Tensions Lead to Expulsions and Splinter Groups
- ^ Lewis, James R. (2001). Satanism Today: An Encyclopedia of Religion. ABC-CLIO. p. 240. ISBN 1576077594.
- ^ Devil Worship
- ^ Church of Satan Rap Sheet: The Official Site
- ^ "Dissection. Interview with Jon Nödtveidt. June 2003". Metal Centre. Retrieved 2011-11-30.
- ^ "Official Dissection Website :: Reinkaos". Dissection.nu. Archived from the original on 2011-11-30.
{{cite web}}
:|archive-date=
/|archive-url=
timestamp mismatch; 2008-04-22 suggested (help) - ^ "Dissection Frontman Jon Nödtveidt Commits Suicide". Metal Storm. 2006-08-18. Retrieved 2011-11-30.
- ^ "Dissection Guitarist: Jon Nödtveidt Didn't Have Copy of 'The Satanic Bible' at Suicide Scene". Blabbermouth. 2006-08-23. Retrieved 2011-11-30.
- ^ Lucifer King Of Babylon
- ^ Satan, Devil and Demons - Isaiah 14:12-14
- ^ Apologetics Press - Is Satan “Lucifer"?
- ^ Catholic Encyclopedia: Devil
- ^ Ford, Michael (2005). Luciferian Witchcraft. p. 373. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 82. Retrieved 2008-06-05.
- ^ Pike, Randall (2007). The Man with Confused Eyes. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Brown, Seth (2004). Think You're the Only One? Oddball Groups Where Outsiders Fit In. Barnes and Noble. pp. 99–100. ISBN 0760757089.
- ^ John, Mitchell (2009). "Local writer compiles directory of unusual organizations". http://www.lastvisibledog.org/berkshirearts/Seth_Brown.html.
{{cite news}}
: External link in
(help)|publisher=
- ^ Mathews, Chris (2009). Modern Satanism: anatomy of a radical subculture. Praeger Publishers. p. 92. ISBN 978-0-313-36639-0.
- ^ Partridge, Christopher Hugh (2004). The Re-enchantment of the West. p. 83. Retrieved 2008-05-12.
- ^ Pacts and self-initiation
Further reading
- Ellis, Bill, Raising the Devil: Satanism, New Religions and the Media (Lexington: University Press of Kentucky, 2000).
- Hertenstein, Mike; Jon Trott, Selling Satan: The Evangelical Media and the Mike Warnke Scandal (Chicago: Cornerstone, 1993).
- Brown, Seth; Think you're the only one? (Barnes & Noble Books 2004)
- Medway, Gareth J.; The Lure of the Sinister: The Unnatural History of Satanism (New York and London: New York University Press, 2001).
- Michelet, Jules, Satanism and Witchcraft: A Study in Medieval Superstition (English translation of 1862 French work).
- Palermo, George B.; Michele C. Del Re: Satanism: Psychiatric and Legal Views (American Series in Behavioral Science and Law) . Charles C Thomas Pub Ltd (November 1999)
- Pike, Albert, Morals and Dogma (1871)
- Richardson, James T.; Joel Best; David G. Bromley, The Satanism Scare (New York: Aldine de Gruyter, 1991).
- Vera, Diane, Theistic Satanism: The new Satanisms of the era of the Internet
- Karlsson, Thomas (2008). Qabalah, Qliphoth and Goetic Magic. ISBN 0972182012.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - Ford, Michael (2005). Luciferian Witchcraft. ISBN 1411626389.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - Baddeley, Gavin; Lucifer Rising, A Book of Sin, Devil Worship and Rock 'n' Roll (Plexus Publishing, November 1999)
- Webb, Don (1999). Uncle Setnakt's Essential Guide to the Left Hand Path. ISBN 1885972105.
{{cite book}}
: Unknown parameter|month=
ignored (help) - Zacharias, Gerhard (1980). The Satanic Cult. ISBN 0041330080. Translated from the German Satanskult und Schwarze Messe by Christine Trollope.