What Does Satanism Believe?

The question of what Satanists believe often conjures images of fiery pits, horned figures, and ritualistic sacrifice. This perception, largely fueled by decades of sensationalized media and a historical association with fear and the unknown, is a significant departure from the reality of modern Satanism. Far from being a monolithic entity worshipping a literal devil, Satanism, in its various contemporary forms, is a complex and multifaceted movement that often emphasizes individual liberty, rationalism, self-empowerment, and a critical examination of religious dogma.

While the term “Satanism” can encompass a spectrum of beliefs and practices, it is crucial to distinguish between LaVeyan Satanism, Theistic Satanism, and other less defined or more esoteric interpretations. Each of these branches offers a unique perspective on the figure of Satan, the role of religion in society, and the fundamental tenets of their adherents’ lives. Understanding these distinctions is key to demystifying a belief system that is frequently misunderstood and misrepresented. This exploration will delve into the core tenets of prominent Satanic philosophies, moving beyond sensationalism to uncover the intellectual and personal frameworks that guide Satanists.

The Philosophical Foundations of LaVeyan Satanism

LaVeyan Satanism, founded by Anton Szandor LaVey in 1966 with the establishment of the Church of Satan, is arguably the most widely recognized and influential form of modern Satanism. It is fundamentally an atheistic and materialistic philosophy, viewing Satan not as a divine being but as a symbol of rebellion against Abrahamic religious traditions, indulgence, and earthly pleasures. LaVeyan Satanism is not about worshipping a devil but about embracing the carnal, the self-serving, and the rational.

The Nine Satanic Statements

At the heart of LaVeyan Satanism lies the “Nine Satanic Statements,” a set of principles that encapsulate its core worldview. These statements are not commandments to be blindly followed but rather guidelines for living a life that prioritizes the individual’s desires and well-being. They serve as a rejection of altruism, a spiritual afterlife, and the perceived limitations imposed by conventional morality.

• “Satan represents indulgence, not compulsion!” This statement highlights the emphasis on personal freedom and choice. LaVeyan Satanists believe in fulfilling one’s desires without being coerced by external forces, whether religious, social, or personal. It’s about enjoying the present life and its pleasures rather than deferring happiness to a hypothetical future or adhering to rigid moral codes that suppress natural instincts.
• “Satan represents vital existence, not spiritual pipe dreams!” This directly opposes the concept of an afterlife or a spiritual realm. LaVeyan Satanism is firmly rooted in the here and now. The focus is on making the most of one’s physical and mental existence in this life, valuing tangible experiences and achievements over abstract spiritual aspirations.
• “Satan represents undefiled wisdom, not self-deceit!” This principle champions intellectual honesty and critical thinking. LaVeyan Satanists strive to understand the world through reason and observation, rejecting dogma and blind faith. Self-deception, in the form of rationalizing away one’s true desires or motivations, is seen as detrimental.
• “Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it, not love wasted on ungrateful wretches!” This statement articulates a pragmatic approach to interpersonal relationships. Loyalty and compassion are reserved for those who reciprocate and earn them. It is a rejection of unconditional love often preached in traditional religions, advocating instead for a system of earned respect and affection.
• “Satan represents vengeance, not turning the other cheek!” This principle acknowledges the natural human inclination for retribution when wronged. Rather than promoting forgiveness or passive acceptance of abuse, LaVeyan Satanism suggests that seeking justice or retribution for harm inflicted is a valid response. It is about holding individuals accountable for their actions.
• “Satan represents responsibility to the responsible, not concern for psychic vampires!” This emphasizes self-reliance and accountability. LaVeyan Satanists believe in taking ownership of their actions and their lives. They are wary of individuals who drain others emotionally or energetically without contributing anything in return, often referred to as “psychic vampires.”
• “Satan has been the best friend the Church has ever had, as he has all along kept her in business!” This statement reflects a historical and cynical view of Christianity. Satan, in this context, is seen as the catalyst that has kept organized religion relevant by providing a tangible enemy and a source of fear, which in turn drives adherence and donations.
• “Satan represents all of the so-called sins, for they all alllow for physical, mental, or emotional gratification!” This is a direct refutation of the concept of sin as defined by Abrahamic religions. LaVeyan Satanists embrace what are traditionally considered sins as avenues for fulfilling natural desires and experiencing life fully. These are seen not as moral failings but as expressions of human nature.
• “Satan is the best friend the persecuted ever had—he keeps them from being turned into wall-crawlers!” This statement positions Satan as a liberator from oppression. It suggests that by embracing the “darker” aspects of human nature and rebelling against restrictive social norms, individuals can avoid becoming subservient or repressed.

The Nine Satanic Sins

Complementing the statements are the “Nine Satanic Sins,” which serve as a guide to undesirable behaviors within the Satanic community and in personal conduct. These are not sins in a religious sense but rather anti-social or self-destructive tendencies that hinder personal progress and fulfillment.

1. Stupidity: The refusal or inability to think, learn, and question.
2. Pretentiousness: Acting as though one is better than they are, or holding oneself to unrealistic standards.
3. Opinionatedness: Holding rigid beliefs without supporting evidence or openness to change.
4. Self-deceit: Lying to oneself about one’s desires, motivations, or capabilities.
5. Herd conformity: Following the crowd without critical thought or individual conviction.
6. Petty concerns: Focusing on trivial matters to the detriment of more important pursuits.
7. Unimaginative conformism: Accepting things as they are without seeking creative solutions or improvements.
8. Messiness: Disorganization in one’s personal environment or affairs.
9. Malicious gossip: Spreading rumors or speaking ill of others behind their backs.

These Sins emphasize the LaVeyan focus on self-improvement, critical thinking, and pragmatic social interaction.

The Role of Satan in Theistic Satanism

Unlike LaVeyan Satanism, which views Satan as a symbol, Theistic Satanism posits the existence of Satan as a literal deity or a pantheon of deities. This branch of Satanism is far more diverse and less organized than its atheistic counterpart, with practitioners often forming solitary paths or small, informal groups. While the exact beliefs can vary significantly, a common thread is the veneration of Satan as a benevolent figure, often representing liberation, knowledge, and the primal forces of nature, in contrast to the perceived tyranny and subjugation promoted by Abrahamic faiths.

Reinterpreting Satan as a Liberator

For Theistic Satanists, Satan is not the embodiment of evil but rather a liberator who offered humanity knowledge and freedom from divine control. This interpretation often draws upon Gnostic traditions, where the serpent in the Garden of Eden is seen not as a tempter but as an enlightened being who bestowed awareness upon Adam and Eve. In this view, Satan is a champion of individual will and a force against oppressive doctrines.

Esoteric and Occult Practices

Theistic Satanism frequently incorporates esoteric and occult practices. These can include rituals, spellwork, meditation, and the study of various mystical traditions. The goal of these practices is often personal empowerment, spiritual growth, and the forging of a direct connection with Satan or the forces that Satan represents. Unlike the rationalistic approach of LaVeyan Satanism, Theistic Satanism embraces the supernatural and the metaphysical.

Diverse Pantheons and Beliefs

It is important to note that “Theistic Satanism” is an umbrella term. Adherents may worship Satan exclusively, or they may incorporate other figures from various mythologies and occult traditions into their practices. Some may identify with Lucifer, Beelzebub, or other entities that are perceived as representing similar values of independence, wisdom, and rebellion. The emphasis remains on a personal relationship with these divine or semi-divine figures, guided by individual intuition and spiritual exploration.

Common Misconceptions and Distinctions

The persistent misconceptions surrounding Satanism are a significant barrier to understanding its actual tenets. The sensationalism propagated by media and historical anti-Satanic crusades have created a distorted image that rarely aligns with the beliefs and practices of modern Satanists. Clarifying these distinctions is crucial for accurate perception.

Satanism vs. Devil Worship

The most prevalent misconception is the conflation of Satanism with literal devil worship. As discussed, LaVeyan Satanism is atheistic and uses Satan as a symbol. Even within Theistic Satanism, the veneration of Satan is often framed as a pursuit of forbidden knowledge, empowerment, and independence, rather than a blind adoration of evil. The “evil” attributed to Satan by monotheistic religions is often reinterpreted by Satanists as a symbol of liberation from oppressive moral frameworks.

The Church of Satan and The Satanic Temple

Further clarification is needed regarding the distinction between the Church of Satan, founded by Anton LaVey, and The Satanic Temple (TST), which emerged much later. While both identify as Satanic and oppose religious dogmatism, they have distinct philosophical and operational differences.

The Church of Satan, as outlined, is a philosophical and atheistic organization focused on individualism, rational self-interest, and carnality. They do not engage in religious worship in the traditional sense and see their “religion” as a way of life and a framework for personal liberation.

The Satanic Temple, on the other hand, is a non-theistic religious organization that uses Satan as a literary and symbolic figure to advocate for secularism, social justice, and individual freedoms. TST actively engages in political activism, using Satanic symbolism to challenge religious privilege and promote the separation of church and state. Their tenets, such as “One should never commit unjust acts that harm others, and one should make sure to treat others as one wishes to be treated” (the “Justicifarian” principle), reflect a strong emphasis on social responsibility and ethical conduct, which might surprise those who associate Satanism with amorality.

The Rejection of Dogma and the Embrace of Individualism

A unifying theme across most forms of modern Satanism is a profound rejection of religious dogma and an unwavering commitment to individualism. Whether atheistic or theistic, Satanists generally believe in the primacy of individual reason, the right to self-determination, and the rejection of externally imposed moral authorities. This focus on personal autonomy is central to their identity and differentiates them significantly from many traditional religious structures. They encourage questioning, critical thinking, and the formation of personal beliefs based on experience and rational inquiry, rather than blind adherence to scripture or tradition. This commitment to individual liberty and critical thought forms the bedrock of what it means to be a Satanist in the modern era.

aViewFromTheCave is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate we earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.