For starters, I am not a Satanist, but I've been lurking in the forums for a little while to see various conversations. I was raised Catholic, now I'm not. My upbringing with respect with Satanism was rather dismissive, "it's bad, let's change the subject. Say some Hail Marys" but I recently met someone who identified as a deeply religious Christian. When I told him that I had been brought up Catholic, he then refused to talk to me further because, as he said, Catholics ARE Satanists. Upon further research, I found that this sentiment is actually shared by some sects of Christianity. OBVIOUSLY, that isn't true. But, it got me very curious about what Satanism actually is and the occult, etc.
Now, I don't intend to ever practice Satanism, but I would like to learn more about it. I am having some trouble though, I've read some basic material about the nine beliefs, focus on the physical self as opposed to the spiritual (for one sect, I think), and that some sect of Satanism doesn't believe in a devil in a literal sense but more of as an idea of separating from an oppressive force (God or Heaven supposedly) and becoming an individual. That was all very interesting, but there is quite a lot that I don't understand being a complete outsider.
Please, those who identify themselves as practicing Satanists (whatever that means), if you could answer ANY of the questions, I would be very grateful. I know it's a lot and I don't expect anyone to answer them all. I'm just trying to learn amidst all of the rumors and myths about this way of thinking.
1. I've read that Satanists are opposed to the idea of a "church" because they want to promote individualism and all of that and an organization would promote subjugation. However, I've heard of some Satanic churchs and priests and all of that. So what's the story? Are there meetings at all? Is the church founded by the LaVey family the only one?
2. Animal sacrifices. According to the main rules of Satanism that I have read, Satanists do not believe in harming a person or animal for reasons other than self defense or food (in the case of animals). But, animal sacrifices are done by SOMEONE. There are makeshift or informal gathering places that I've seen where animals are sacrificed for whatever reason. Is there some sect of Satanism or Paganism that does this or are these people who do the sacrifices just groups of loonies? I don't understand the purpose of it.
3. Summoning demons. The sources I've seen are all over the place about this. Some have rituals or spells for doing so, but what for? What is the purpose of this? Is this actually practiced or is this a myth?
4. People actually talking about Satanism and their actual beliefs. I've seen lots of videos from people who claim to be Satanists. I tend to be very skeptical of anyone who mentions an orgy after murdering a screaming child on an upside down cross because what's the purpose of it? Are there any videos other than the interviews with the LaVeys done by actual Satanists who discuss their actual beliefs and not as an ex-Satanic priest that used to kill babies and have orgies?
5. Do Satanists prefer to date other Satanists? Catholics strongly prefer to keep to their own kind as do Orthodox Jews and Muslims, etc. If you date someone from some other faith that doesn't fall under the umbrella of the Occult, how do you cope with it? Is it hard to explain to a dating partner, do you wait to reveal it, or what?
6. What attracted you to Satanism? Was it simply the urge to separate from the status quo or societal norms or something more?
7. Do you have daily rituals or prayers? Many Christians will pray before bed, for example, and may wear a crucifix or decorate their houses with them. Jews will hang Mezzuzat on doorways as another example. What sort of art or things do Satanists adorn their houses or bodies with? I would like to see pictures if anyone is willing to share.
8. What does the afterlife mean to you? Do Satanists believe in an afterlife? Do they believe that we are reborn, go to hell to roast marshmallows, have some version of "heaven", become ghosts that scare the crap out of teenagers, or just fertilize the daisies?
9. Catholics believe in demonic possessions and perform exorcisms to expel demons from an unwilling human victim who may become the target of attacks and all of that. A lot of excorcisms are a load of poo, but there are some that do appear quite genuine. What is a Satanist's opinion on this? Are possessions a supposedly good thing, done by "bad" demons as opposed to "good" demons, or some kind of spiritual sickness? How do Satanists handle such an occurrence as strange activity and a possible demonic possession?
Whew! That is all for right now. I thank anyone who has taken the time to read all of this mess and sincerely thank anyone who will take the time to respond. I apologize if my questions seem silly. There is a LOT of conflicting stuff to soft through and a whole heck of a lot of rumors and of course my Catholic upbringing that just makes me naturally curious about all of this kind of stuff. [smile]
Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
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ResearchyMcCuriouspants
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- Joined: Tue Dec 18, 2012 6:28 am
- Location: Maryland, USA
Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
I am on a mission to learn more about the Occult!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
I'm not a satanist, but I wanted to chime in on a few things anyway.
Modern paganism absolutely does not subscribe to any kind of ritual animal sacrifice. Almost all pagan traditions hold life and nature to be extremely sacred, and I can't think of any way of pissing off a pagan faster than implying that they'd perform animal sacrifice in their rituals or magic.
I can't go into the specifics beyond that, not being a satanist, except to say that it's a very broad label which applies to groups with wildly different beliefs. Usually they're divided into two loose catagories.
1) The Modern/Levayan Satanist. These guys are closer to atheists than anything, they use Satan as a symbol of rejection of the dominant Christian paradigm in western society and the adoption of a rather self serving, 'might makes right' type life philosophy. Any rituals or magic they practice are almost solely aimed at working through manipulation of the subconscious, they by and large, as I understand it, don't actually work with metaphysical entities or forces. These guys do have a 'Church,' with the Satanic Bible you see in bookshops being theirs and are, iirc, a recognized religion.
2) Theistic/Spiritual Satanists. These guys are closer to the public view of a satanist, although still a long way off. Most groups believe that 'Satan' is a christian title applied to a pre-Christian deity, often Sumerian/Egyptian/Babylonian, so they're a kinda mashup of ancient pagan revivalism, modern occult tradition and inverted Christian worldviews and practices, sometimes where their adopted God (with his pantheon as the usual 'demons' of christian mythos) is undertaking some kind of spiritual warfare for the souls of mankind, fighting for freedom and independence and spiritual growth, where Christianity is seen as holding people back, restricting them from knowledge, abusing humanity, and so forth. They tend to practice a lot of ritual magic and associate in small groups which form and remain in contact primarily online (Joy of Satan, Temple of Set, Order of Nine Angles, etc).
My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
In over a decade of occult research, I've never encountered a modern tradition practiced in the first world which involves or advocates animal sacrifice, even the more extreme, right-wing affiliated satanic groups. If any animal sacrifices are taking place, I'd say it's just sick kids trying to dabble with what they perceive to be 'black magic' based on the ideas that have been buried in their head by the media and shitty horror movies and the more extreme Christian propaganda. There's just not much point, while theoretically it could add some extra 'oomph' to the right kind of spell or ritual, I'm not sure the payoff would be worth both the risk/attention and the act itself, which is viewed as fairly repulsive in a day and age in which we're almost entirely separated from the slaughter of the animals which we consume. You'd have to be the kind of twisted individual who gets off on causing pain to animals to ever contemplate it.
2. Animal sacrifices. According to the main rules of Satanism that I have read, Satanists do not believe in harming a person or animal for reasons other than self defense or food (in the case of animals). But, animal sacrifices are done by SOMEONE. There are makeshift or informal gathering places that I've seen where animals are sacrificed for whatever reason. Is there some sect of Satanism or Paganism that does this or are these people who do the sacrifices just groups of loonies? I don't understand the purpose of it.
Modern paganism absolutely does not subscribe to any kind of ritual animal sacrifice. Almost all pagan traditions hold life and nature to be extremely sacred, and I can't think of any way of pissing off a pagan faster than implying that they'd perform animal sacrifice in their rituals or magic.
Your problem here is that you're projecting your biased and indoctrinated (no offense) perspective on what a 'demon' is. The 'demons' which people summon aren't beings of infinite malice with horns and hooves who'll pressure you into signing in blood on the dotted line in return for wealth and power so they can steal away your eternal soul into an eternity of torment. They're usually viewed as either pre-Christian spiritual entities which have been subjected to propaganda and vilification, or aspects of the subconscious which are evoked from within.3. Summoning demons. The sources I've seen are all over the place about this. Some have rituals or spells for doing so, but what for? What is the purpose of this? Is this actually practiced or is this a myth?
I've seen these videos and accounts you're talking about, they're almost entirely the product of delusion and attention seeking, imo. If you want more information on the subject, look into the epidemic of fake satanic ritual abuse in the 80's. Those ideas and practices don't exist within the genuine occult world, they're just sick inversions of Christian practices made up to slander individuals or provide a nebulous, enemy 'other' to keep the faithful in line, unfortunately some mentally ill people who are psychotic or have been abused and have a messed up need to construct vivid fantasies to explain and justify what's happened to them, have these ideas put in their head by the more extreme kinds of Christian organizations, and run with them. It just doesn't happen, no more than early Christians were cannibals as the Romans accused them of being, or Jews sacrified babies as they were accused of doing in medieval/renaissance (and sadly, even later) Europe.
4. People actually talking about Satanism and their actual beliefs. I've seen lots of videos from people who claim to be Satanists. I tend to be very skeptical of anyone who mentions an orgy after murdering a screaming child on an upside down cross because what's the purpose of it? Are there any videos other than the interviews with the LaVeys done by actual Satanists who discuss their actual beliefs and not as an ex-Satanic priest that used to kill babies and have orgies?
I can't go into the specifics beyond that, not being a satanist, except to say that it's a very broad label which applies to groups with wildly different beliefs. Usually they're divided into two loose catagories.
1) The Modern/Levayan Satanist. These guys are closer to atheists than anything, they use Satan as a symbol of rejection of the dominant Christian paradigm in western society and the adoption of a rather self serving, 'might makes right' type life philosophy. Any rituals or magic they practice are almost solely aimed at working through manipulation of the subconscious, they by and large, as I understand it, don't actually work with metaphysical entities or forces. These guys do have a 'Church,' with the Satanic Bible you see in bookshops being theirs and are, iirc, a recognized religion.
2) Theistic/Spiritual Satanists. These guys are closer to the public view of a satanist, although still a long way off. Most groups believe that 'Satan' is a christian title applied to a pre-Christian deity, often Sumerian/Egyptian/Babylonian, so they're a kinda mashup of ancient pagan revivalism, modern occult tradition and inverted Christian worldviews and practices, sometimes where their adopted God (with his pantheon as the usual 'demons' of christian mythos) is undertaking some kind of spiritual warfare for the souls of mankind, fighting for freedom and independence and spiritual growth, where Christianity is seen as holding people back, restricting them from knowledge, abusing humanity, and so forth. They tend to practice a lot of ritual magic and associate in small groups which form and remain in contact primarily online (Joy of Satan, Temple of Set, Order of Nine Angles, etc).
My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
"The path of the Sage is called
'The Path of Illumination'
he who gives himself to this path
is like a block of wood
that gives itself to the chisel-
cut by cut it is honed to perfection"
- DDJ, Verse 27
"It's still magic even if you know how it's done." - Terry Pratchett
'The Path of Illumination'
he who gives himself to this path
is like a block of wood
that gives itself to the chisel-
cut by cut it is honed to perfection"
- DDJ, Verse 27
"It's still magic even if you know how it's done." - Terry Pratchett
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ResearchyMcCuriouspants
- Initiated
- Posts: 10
- Joined: Tue Dec 18, 2012 6:28 am
- Location: Maryland, USA
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
I shortened all of the previous message to make this less cumbersome, I hope you don't mind. [smile]Rin wrote:I'm not a satanist, but I wanted to chime in on a few things anyway.
In over a decade of occult research, I've never encountered a modern tradition practiced in the first world which involves or advocates animal sacrifice...
2. Animal sacrifices.
Your problem here is that you're projecting your biased and indoctrinated (no offense) perspective...3. Summoning demons.
I've seen these videos and accounts you're talking about, they're almost entirely the product of delusion ...
4. People actually talking about Satanism and their actual beliefs.
I really appreciate you taking the time to type all of this up, sort of a Satanism 101 from someone who has done more research than I have.
While I do admit that I do have some indoctrinated beliefs about demons and all of that thanks to my wonderful upbringing in the Catholic Church, I am trying to see demons as Satanists see them. I really meant the question #3 as a sort of window into understanding what demons mean to Satanists, because as you can see, I don't understand that. I will also openly admit that despite being pretty much an Atheist now, I still get jumpy when I see the number 666, if my total at a store rings up at 6.66, I immediately buy something else. I know it's silly, but it's a remnant of being raised I an environment that saw that number as extremely dangerous (not joking).
I suppose I'm still very much interested in this sort of idea of what a Satanist might do in the case of some kind of possession of a person or a spiritual sickness known to the Catholics as demonic possession. As I understand it, Pagans have some kind of ritual for spiritual cleansing involving sage and protective candles. So, I'm just curious if Satanists do something similar.
I am on a mission to learn more about the Occult!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
-
entropic
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Rin wrote:My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
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Serenitydawn
- Adept
- Posts: 435
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- Contact:
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Well said, and if you're curious about LHP or Satanism there are a lot of places you can get information:xaarea wrote:Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
websites:
http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/Theory.html
http://www.spiritualsatanist.com/articl ... thand.html
http://www.balanone.info/lhp.html
http://satanismcentral.com/009.html
https://phoenixgrp.com/nightshade/
There are a ton of different kinds of LHP, I've posted in the free books section some good free books on the subject you might want to check out:
http://www.occultforum.org/forum/viewto ... =4&t=32833 [wink]
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was not meant that we should voyage far. The sciences, each straining in its own direction, have hitherto harmed us little; but some day the piecing together of disociated knowledge will open up such terrifying vistas of reality, and of our frightful position therein, that we shall either go mad from the revelation or flee from the deadly light into the peace and safety of a new dark age. ~ H.P. Lovecraft
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
That's a fair point, and in fact I'd imagine they make a point of keeping their beliefs on the DL even more so than most occult/alternative spiritual traditions.xaarea wrote:Rin wrote:My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
"The path of the Sage is called
'The Path of Illumination'
he who gives himself to this path
is like a block of wood
that gives itself to the chisel-
cut by cut it is honed to perfection"
- DDJ, Verse 27
"It's still magic even if you know how it's done." - Terry Pratchett
'The Path of Illumination'
he who gives himself to this path
is like a block of wood
that gives itself to the chisel-
cut by cut it is honed to perfection"
- DDJ, Verse 27
"It's still magic even if you know how it's done." - Terry Pratchett
-
ResearchyMcCuriouspants
- Initiated
- Posts: 10
- Joined: Tue Dec 18, 2012 6:28 am
- Location: Maryland, USA
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
My aim here is to learn more about Satanism and Satanists from actual people. You know, daily things that individuals go through and opinions of people on the topics I listed above. I've read several websites already, but the information is often conflicting or downright stupid, which is why I'm posting here.Serenitydawn wrote:Well said, and if you're curious about LHP or Satanism there are a lot of places you can get information:xaarea wrote:Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
websites:
http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/Theory.html
http://www.spiritualsatanist.com/articl ... thand.html
http://www.balanone.info/lhp.html
http://satanismcentral.com/009.html
https://phoenixgrp.com/nightshade/
There are a ton of different kinds of LHP, I've posted in the free books section some good free books on the subject you might want to check out:
http://www.occultforum.org/forum/viewto ... =4&t=32833 [wink]
I am on a mission to learn more about the Occult!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
-
entropic
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Yea, and the questions asked in the start of this thread sort of tells why in some cases ... people have weird ideas. A lot wouldn't even bother to ask, since they 'saw it on youtube' or 'read it on some website' and then its true.Rin wrote:That's a fair point, and in fact I'd imagine they make a point of keeping their beliefs on the DL even more so than most occult/alternative spiritual traditions.xaarea wrote:Rin wrote:My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
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Serenitydawn
- Adept
- Posts: 435
- Joined: Fri Oct 19, 2012 10:10 pm
- Contact:
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
It may well seem conflicted for a reason, if you ask 100 Satanist their views and practices on Satanism you'd probably get 100 different answers. It's actually very diverse. You have Setians, Satanists (as in Church of Satan sub-grouped into theistic and non-theistic), Satanic Reds, Luciferians, Aquaferians...it's not like Christianity. They are all different and in some ways each Satanist/LHP practitioner has their own set of ideas and ways of doing things. Many Satanists are atheists, they don't believe in a any deity and feel that they are the god of their own universe. You take complete responsibility for your own life, if you want to change something, it's up to you to change it. You don't ask some deity to do it for you.ResearchyMcCuriouspants wrote:My aim here is to learn more about Satanism and Satanists from actual people. You know, daily things that individuals go through and opinions of people on the topics I listed above. I've read several websites already, but the information is often conflicting or downright stupid, which is why I'm posting here.Serenitydawn wrote:Well said, and if you're curious about LHP or Satanism there are a lot of places you can get information:xaarea wrote:Naah, not going to flame but yes, you might just not see them. From what I've seen ppl grow up and tend to look more "normal" when they loose the need to wear stuff that labels them as part of some group. Also their beliefs stops being something new and interesting you need to 'prove' to everybody you meet and some times you even need to blend in a bit since the attention to this part of your life would be annoying more than anything else. From outside it will probably look like you grew out of things, yes. ,)
websites:
http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/Theory.html
http://www.spiritualsatanist.com/articl ... thand.html
http://www.balanone.info/lhp.html
http://satanismcentral.com/009.html
https://phoenixgrp.com/nightshade/
There are a ton of different kinds of LHP, I've posted in the free books section some good free books on the subject you might want to check out:
http://www.occultforum.org/forum/viewto ... =4&t=32833 [wink]
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was not meant that we should voyage far. The sciences, each straining in its own direction, have hitherto harmed us little; but some day the piecing together of disociated knowledge will open up such terrifying vistas of reality, and of our frightful position therein, that we shall either go mad from the revelation or flee from the deadly light into the peace and safety of a new dark age. ~ H.P. Lovecraft
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ResearchyMcCuriouspants
- Initiated
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- Joined: Tue Dec 18, 2012 6:28 am
- Location: Maryland, USA
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
I might point out that Christianity is quite diverse too. "Catholics" are considered Satanic by other groups, Pentacostles do those head-slapping exorcisms during services, there are some that dance with venomous snakes, the "Jews for Jesus", all of that good stuff. Believe me, it can be very interesting to talk to some of these folks about their various rituals.Serenitydawn wrote:It may well seem conflicted for a reason, if you ask 100 Satanist their views and practices on Satanism you'd probably get 100 different answers. It's actually very diverse. You have Setians, Satanists (as in Church of Satan sub-grouped into theistic and non-theistic), Satanic Reds, Luciferians, Aquaferians...it's not like Christianity. They are all different and in some ways each Satanist/LHP practitioner has their own set of ideas and ways of doing things. Many Satanists are atheists, they don't believe in a any deity and feel that they are the god of their own universe. You take complete responsibility for your own life, if you want to change something, it's up to you to change it. You don't ask some deity to do it for you.ResearchyMcCuriouspants wrote:My aim here is to learn more about Satanism and Satanists from actual people. You know, daily things that individuals go through and opinions of people on the topics I listed above. I've read several websites already, but the information is often conflicting or downright stupid, which is why I'm posting here.Serenitydawn wrote:
Well said, and if you're curious about LHP ... [wink]
I would like stories though. I want to learn about actual people. It's something I've been doing for years, just poking around various different kinds of religious forums to "interrogate" members about their beliefs (I'm just joking, I try to not come across too strongly) What drew you to Satanism? What are your opinions about the faith and other faiths. Do you yourself have daily rituals? Do you pray or have some equivalent to that? Do you believe in spiritual energy or are you focused more on breaking away from societal norms?
I am on a mission to learn more about the Occult!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
If any of my posts come across as silly or ignorant, I sincerely apologize. I am learning!
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cactusjack543
- Magus
- Posts: 1492
- Joined: Sun Sep 12, 2010 9:49 am
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
satanizm is general witchcraft tome as i bielieve robots and clones can mingle in every city we are evolved that much and we need to save witchcraft whole and its history in the name of mankind double up and everything because clones and robots is like thatmars movie natural witches after taking out dna ect ....
the illuminati nights templar quite possibly had vatican style satanics mabby still know.
right left paths can live as such but then church of satan follows left path that of religion lol i got to go expecten a visit on the post soon
the illuminati nights templar quite possibly had vatican style satanics mabby still know.
right left paths can live as such but then church of satan follows left path that of religion lol i got to go expecten a visit on the post soon
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Serenitydawn
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- Joined: Fri Oct 19, 2012 10:10 pm
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Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Christians, and really most of the four main religions share pretty much the same dogma. Satanists don't have dogma. Catholics are completely different. If people understood Satanism in the least, they wouldn't make that comparison. Many Satanists are atheists. Very few would worship any deity. If we deal with a deity, we speak to them as friends not in an "I'm not worthy" kind of way. Though I've recently learned there are Right Hand Path Satanists, which just seems like an oxymoron to me, but each person's path is their own. You seem to assume that none of us know anything about Christianity. My father is Catholic and my mother is Lutheran. I have looked into all kinds of religions, and you would find that most people involved in the occult have also researched many religions, including Christianity. Often you find that occultists know more about Christianity than Christians do.ResearchyMcCuriouspants wrote:Serenitydawn wrote:ResearchyMcCuriouspants wrote:
I might point out that Christianity is quite diverse too. "Catholics" are considered Satanic by other groups, Pentacostles do those head-slapping exorcisms during services, there are some that dance with venomous snakes, the "Jews for Jesus", all of that good stuff. Believe me, it can be very interesting to talk to some of these folks about their various rituals.
I would like stories though. I want to learn about actual people. It's something I've been doing for years, just poking around various different kinds of religious forums to "interrogate" members about their beliefs (I'm just joking, I try to not come across too strongly) What drew you to Satanism? What are your opinions about the faith and other faiths. Do you yourself have daily rituals? Do you pray or have some equivalent to that? Do you believe in spiritual energy or are you focused more on breaking away from societal norms?
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was not meant that we should voyage far. The sciences, each straining in its own direction, have hitherto harmed us little; but some day the piecing together of disociated knowledge will open up such terrifying vistas of reality, and of our frightful position therein, that we shall either go mad from the revelation or flee from the deadly light into the peace and safety of a new dark age. ~ H.P. Lovecraft
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doodlingowl
- Initiated
- Posts: 46
- Joined: Thu Jan 03, 2013 5:35 am
- Location: Minnesota
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
From a spiritual satanist/traditional satanist point of view (as opposed to Laveyan or other left handed paths) this site has all the major points listed on the right hand side of the page.
"Battle not with monsters
lest ye become a monster;
and if you gaze into the abyss
the abyss gazes into you." -Friedrich Nietzsche
lest ye become a monster;
and if you gaze into the abyss
the abyss gazes into you." -Friedrich Nietzsche
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
what is an aquaferian? never heard about that and google doesnt seem to give me an answer too. ive read a good deal about lhp and satanism.
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Serenitydawn
- Adept
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- Contact:
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Oh didn't see this. An Aquaferian follows the teachings of the Sumerian god Enki. They used to have a forum, but that was years ago. They seem to have disappeared from the internet.TSUKUYOMI wrote:what is an aquaferian? never heard about that and google doesnt seem to give me an answer too. ive read a good deal about lhp and satanism.
We live on a placid island of ignorance in the midst of black seas of infinity, and it was not meant that we should voyage far. The sciences, each straining in its own direction, have hitherto harmed us little; but some day the piecing together of disociated knowledge will open up such terrifying vistas of reality, and of our frightful position therein, that we shall either go mad from the revelation or flee from the deadly light into the peace and safety of a new dark age. ~ H.P. Lovecraft
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sinistor666@gmail.com
- Neophyte
- Posts: 7
- Joined: Thu May 09, 2013 2:57 am
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Was also raised Roman Catholic [rofl]
Q. I've read that Satanists are opposed to the idea of a "church" because they want to promote individualism and all of that and an organization would promote subjugation. However, I've heard of some Satanic churchs and priests and all of that. So what's the story? Are there meetings at all? Is the church founded by the LaVey family the only one?
A: Coming together to celebrate something, such as is the case within a Satanic "Church," doesn't offend the goal of individualization. Individualization can only go so far, anyway. If we were all 100% individuals, there'd only be one Satanist and the rest would be something else (because they're individuals). The Satanic Individualization is more about practicing knowledge and experimentation rather than believing something because its popular or out of a fear of some spiritual retribution (such as Hell in the case of Christians). Personally, when I think of "Church" I think of Christianity. Not sure why Satanists would want to gather in a "Church" unless they're clinging onto their Christian roots.
Q: Animal sacrifices. According to the main rules of Satanism that I have read, Satanists do not believe in harming a person or animal for reasons other than self defense or food (in the case of animals). But, animal sacrifices are done by SOMEONE. There are makeshift or informal gathering places that I've seen where animals are sacrificed for whatever reason. Is there some sect of Satanism or Paganism that does this or are these people who do the sacrifices just groups of loonies? I don't understand the purpose of it.
A: There are no rules in Satanism. Satan is the ultimate rule-breaker, right? What a huge hypocrite Satan would be if he handed out rules to follow! I see no reason to sacrifice an animal - it doesn't further the Satanic Kingdom, it doesn't grant wishes, or etc. I suppose if animal sacrifice is especially taboo for someone, then they should preform animal sacrifice, in order to break out of the prison of social stigma and existing in order to maintain the accepted status quo.
Q: Summoning demons. The sources I've seen are all over the place about this. Some have rituals or spells for doing so, but what for? What is the purpose of this? Is this actually practiced or is this a myth?
A: Summoning demons allows human beings to receive insight from non-human intelligence in a way comfortable for humans. Aleister Crowley wrote in the Goetia, "The demons [of the Goetia] are parts of the human Mind." If demons are considered in that aspect, they're both the most dangerous and the most rewarding entities that a magician could hope to work with.
Q: People actually talking about Satanism and their actual beliefs. I've seen lots of videos from people who claim to be Satanists. I tend to be very skeptical of anyone who mentions an orgy after murdering a screaming child on an upside down cross because what's the purpose of it? Are there any videos other than the interviews with the LaVeys done by actual Satanists who discuss their actual beliefs and not as an ex-Satanic priest that used to kill babies and have orgies?
A: Michael Ford has made a couple videos on YouTube. However, don't discredit the people pissing on the Eucharist and etc. They do this (hopefully) not to be edgy or "dark," but in order to rid the subconscious mind of any and all Christian influence. As Westerners, it is highly likely that each of us was either raised Christian or in some other way influenced by it. We can't be Satanists if we are clinging to Christianity subconsciously, because it means we are practicing a Christian inspired form of Satanism.
Q: Do Satanists prefer to date other Satanists? Catholics strongly prefer to keep to their own kind as do Orthodox Jews and Muslims, etc. If you date someone from some other faith that doesn't fall under the umbrella of the Occult, how do you cope with it? Is it hard to explain to a dating partner, do you wait to reveal it, or what?
A: I'd date anyone if they didn't stand in my way.
Q: What attracted you to Satanism? Was it simply the urge to separate from the status quo or societal norms or something more?
A: Had an experience when I was a kid and started studying.
Q: Do you have daily rituals or prayers? Many Christians will pray before bed, for example, and may wear a crucifix or decorate their houses with them. Jews will hang Mezzuzat on doorways as another example. What sort of art or things do Satanists adorn their houses or bodies with? I would like to see pictures if anyone is willing to share.
A: I have an altar in one corner of my house, but that's mainly for tradition's sake. Hell is within, and every day must be a ritual. Instead of thinking about stupid things that don't benefit you, spend that time in study. Every hour must be a ceremony.
Q: What does the afterlife mean to you? Do Satanists believe in an afterlife? Do they believe that we are reborn, go to hell to roast marshmallows, have some version of "heaven", become ghosts that scare the crap out of teenagers, or just fertilize the daisies?
A: I don't know because I haven't died. That's one of the pros of Satanism - instead of making up nonsense to fill in the gaps, we tend to seek knowledge and until we have it, we are free to say "I dont know." Of course we can all make up our own beliefs about such non-provable things as the afterlife, and I indeed have mine, but its always best to have doubt in the forefront of your mind until given evidence for some claim.
Q. I've read that Satanists are opposed to the idea of a "church" because they want to promote individualism and all of that and an organization would promote subjugation. However, I've heard of some Satanic churchs and priests and all of that. So what's the story? Are there meetings at all? Is the church founded by the LaVey family the only one?
A: Coming together to celebrate something, such as is the case within a Satanic "Church," doesn't offend the goal of individualization. Individualization can only go so far, anyway. If we were all 100% individuals, there'd only be one Satanist and the rest would be something else (because they're individuals). The Satanic Individualization is more about practicing knowledge and experimentation rather than believing something because its popular or out of a fear of some spiritual retribution (such as Hell in the case of Christians). Personally, when I think of "Church" I think of Christianity. Not sure why Satanists would want to gather in a "Church" unless they're clinging onto their Christian roots.
Q: Animal sacrifices. According to the main rules of Satanism that I have read, Satanists do not believe in harming a person or animal for reasons other than self defense or food (in the case of animals). But, animal sacrifices are done by SOMEONE. There are makeshift or informal gathering places that I've seen where animals are sacrificed for whatever reason. Is there some sect of Satanism or Paganism that does this or are these people who do the sacrifices just groups of loonies? I don't understand the purpose of it.
A: There are no rules in Satanism. Satan is the ultimate rule-breaker, right? What a huge hypocrite Satan would be if he handed out rules to follow! I see no reason to sacrifice an animal - it doesn't further the Satanic Kingdom, it doesn't grant wishes, or etc. I suppose if animal sacrifice is especially taboo for someone, then they should preform animal sacrifice, in order to break out of the prison of social stigma and existing in order to maintain the accepted status quo.
Q: Summoning demons. The sources I've seen are all over the place about this. Some have rituals or spells for doing so, but what for? What is the purpose of this? Is this actually practiced or is this a myth?
A: Summoning demons allows human beings to receive insight from non-human intelligence in a way comfortable for humans. Aleister Crowley wrote in the Goetia, "The demons [of the Goetia] are parts of the human Mind." If demons are considered in that aspect, they're both the most dangerous and the most rewarding entities that a magician could hope to work with.
Q: People actually talking about Satanism and their actual beliefs. I've seen lots of videos from people who claim to be Satanists. I tend to be very skeptical of anyone who mentions an orgy after murdering a screaming child on an upside down cross because what's the purpose of it? Are there any videos other than the interviews with the LaVeys done by actual Satanists who discuss their actual beliefs and not as an ex-Satanic priest that used to kill babies and have orgies?
A: Michael Ford has made a couple videos on YouTube. However, don't discredit the people pissing on the Eucharist and etc. They do this (hopefully) not to be edgy or "dark," but in order to rid the subconscious mind of any and all Christian influence. As Westerners, it is highly likely that each of us was either raised Christian or in some other way influenced by it. We can't be Satanists if we are clinging to Christianity subconsciously, because it means we are practicing a Christian inspired form of Satanism.
Q: Do Satanists prefer to date other Satanists? Catholics strongly prefer to keep to their own kind as do Orthodox Jews and Muslims, etc. If you date someone from some other faith that doesn't fall under the umbrella of the Occult, how do you cope with it? Is it hard to explain to a dating partner, do you wait to reveal it, or what?
A: I'd date anyone if they didn't stand in my way.
Q: What attracted you to Satanism? Was it simply the urge to separate from the status quo or societal norms or something more?
A: Had an experience when I was a kid and started studying.
Q: Do you have daily rituals or prayers? Many Christians will pray before bed, for example, and may wear a crucifix or decorate their houses with them. Jews will hang Mezzuzat on doorways as another example. What sort of art or things do Satanists adorn their houses or bodies with? I would like to see pictures if anyone is willing to share.
A: I have an altar in one corner of my house, but that's mainly for tradition's sake. Hell is within, and every day must be a ritual. Instead of thinking about stupid things that don't benefit you, spend that time in study. Every hour must be a ceremony.
Q: What does the afterlife mean to you? Do Satanists believe in an afterlife? Do they believe that we are reborn, go to hell to roast marshmallows, have some version of "heaven", become ghosts that scare the crap out of teenagers, or just fertilize the daisies?
A: I don't know because I haven't died. That's one of the pros of Satanism - instead of making up nonsense to fill in the gaps, we tend to seek knowledge and until we have it, we are free to say "I dont know." Of course we can all make up our own beliefs about such non-provable things as the afterlife, and I indeed have mine, but its always best to have doubt in the forefront of your mind until given evidence for some claim.
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
Animal sacrificing is still practiced by some groups of Satanist. This is isn't done by misguided teenagers nor for the purpose of a twisted individual getting off. I've spoken to a few Satanist via Skype or email who occasionally will sacrifice an animal either for the purpose of invoking certain Demons that they have had trouble with invoking, or as part of a worship ritual to Satan.Rin wrote:
In over a decade of occult research, I've never encountered a modern tradition practiced in the first world which involves or advocates animal sacrifice, even the more extreme, right-wing affiliated satanic groups. If any animal sacrifices are taking place, I'd say it's just sick kids trying to dabble with what they perceive to be 'black magic' based on the ideas that have been buried in their head by the media and shitty horror movies and the more extreme Christian propaganda. There's just not much point, while theoretically it could add some extra 'oomph' to the right kind of spell or ritual, I'm not sure the payoff would be worth both the risk/attention and the act itself, which is viewed as fairly repulsive in a day and age in which we're almost entirely separated from the slaughter of the animals which we consume. You'd have to be the kind of twisted individual who gets off on causing pain to animals to ever contemplate it.
Modern paganism absolutely does not subscribe to any kind of ritual animal sacrifice. Almost all pagan traditions hold life and nature to be extremely sacred, and I can't think of any way of pissing off a pagan faster than implying that they'd perform animal sacrifice in their rituals or magic.
Animal sacrificing has been around for thousands of years, Christian Propaganda or not, if it works for certain individuals there should be no outlash among the Occult community towards them.
LeVayen Satanist are no Satanist. This isn't bias coming from a Theistic Satanist with a grudge towards the Church of Satan, merely by the definition of the word and the beliefs of the COS they're not Satanist.Rin wrote: I can't go into the specifics beyond that, not being a satanist, except to say that it's a very broad label which applies to groups with wildly different beliefs. Usually they're divided into two loose catagories.
1) The Modern/Levayan Satanist. These guys are closer to atheists than anything, they use Satan as a symbol of rejection of the dominant Christian paradigm in western society and the adoption of a rather self serving, 'might makes right' type life philosophy. Any rituals or magic they practice are almost solely aimed at working through manipulation of the subconscious, they by and large, as I understand it, don't actually work with metaphysical entities or forces. These guys do have a 'Church,' with the Satanic Bible you see in bookshops being theirs and are, iirc, a recognized religion.
Satanist - Worship of Satan (Deity)
Though the Church of Satan has never publicly refereed to themselves as Atheist, they have made it clear they believe in no Deities and that Satan is merely a symbol. Since Satan is interpreted as merely a symbol, and not an actual entity, they're not Satanist.
I realize they continue to refer to themselves as such, but I like to compare them to racial/ethnic Nationalist groups that don't refute the term racism. They're racist who go by a different name. COS members are Atheist.
Temple of Set are not Satanist and haven't refereed to themselves as such in years. They're worshipers of Set.Rin wrote: 2) Theistic/Spiritual Satanists. These guys are closer to the public view of a satanist, although still a long way off. Most groups believe that 'Satan' is a christian title applied to a pre-Christian deity, often Sumerian/Egyptian/Babylonian, so they're a kinda mashup of ancient pagan revivalism, modern occult tradition and inverted Christian worldviews and practices, sometimes where their adopted God (with his pantheon as the usual 'demons' of christian mythos) is undertaking some kind of spiritual warfare for the souls of mankind, fighting for freedom and independence and spiritual growth, where Christianity is seen as holding people back, restricting them from knowledge, abusing humanity, and so forth. They tend to practice a lot of ritual magic and associate in small groups which form and remain in contact primarily online (Joy of Satan, Temple of Set, Order of Nine Angles, etc).
I guess it's a great thing that experience is personal, subjective, bias, and can be right just as it can be wrong. I'm not going to comment on those of the Atheistic variety as I've already stated they're not Satanist, but most Theistic Satanist are Satanist because experience has lead them to Satan. I become a Satanist as an adult, and I didn't adopt the practice because of a rejection of Christianity or the aesthetics, I adopted the practice because Satan showed himself to me through various means. No one in my personal life (family, friends, or co-workers) know that I'm a Satanist as I keep it private. I don't seek to draw any unneeded attention to myself. I look like like an average person. I don't dress any different (generally just Jeans and a solid color t-shirt or collars shirt).Rin wrote:My experience, and I might get flamed for it but here I go, is that the majority of Satanists of either school of thought adopt the practice primarily as a rejection of mainstream/Christian values, tend to be drawn to it for reasons of image and aesthetics, and eventually grow out of it and return to their previous belief system or shift to another occult tradition (paganism, ceremonial magic, various eastern paths). The number of people I've seen who've adopted Satanism as a serious belief system and lifestyle then practice wholeheartedly and undergo genuine spiritual progression or growth while within the paradigm, are very few. But perhaps I just don't see them as an outsider.
Re: Questions about actual Satanic practices and life
ResearchyMcCuriouspants wrote:Rin wrote:
While I do admit that I do have some indoctrinated beliefs about demons and all of that thanks to my wonderful upbringing in the Catholic Church, I am trying to see demons as Satanists see them. I really meant the question #3 as a sort of window into understanding what demons mean to Satanists, because as you can see, I don't understand that. I will also openly admit that despite being pretty much an Atheist now, I still get jumpy when I see the number 666, if my total at a store rings up at 6.66, I immediately buy something else. I know it's silly, but it's a remnant of being raised I an environment that saw that number as extremely dangerous (not joking).
I suppose I'm still very much interested in this sort of idea of what a Satanist might do in the case of some kind of possession of a person or a spiritual sickness known to the Catholics as demonic possession. As I understand it, Pagans have some kind of ritual for spiritual cleansing involving sage and protective candles. So, I'm just curious if Satanists do something similar.
I was raised in a family where my father came from a Southern family which were Baptist (not Southern Baptist), and my mother was a Roman Catholic. My parents didn't push faith on me so though I grew up in a religious family, I grew up in a secular home. But I understand where you may be coming since my mother once made a comment about a Priest that taught her about Demons when she went to school.
How a Satanist sees Demons may be different, mainly from experience and invocations, but it's quite simple. Demons guide, teach, and help. Some Satanist work with only one Demon, some work with Dozens. They don't possess people, and they can't be FORCED to do anything.
Now, that's not to say all Demons like us. I've talked to Satanist who have been attacked by Demons (though I have suspicions that they were probably rude to the Demon).