Satanism
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Satanism can refer to a number of belief systems depending on the user and contexts. Common, but not precise, use of the word generally refers to "the worship of Satan or the powers of evil."[1]. However, in practice, Satanism is a general name for several distinct spiritual practices and beliefs: the three most significant seem to be LaVeyan Satanism, Theistic Satanism and Philosophical Satanism. But varieties of Satanism range from Philosophical Satanism (primarily atheistic) to the worship of an actual spiritual being (Theistic Satanism), which is rarely recognizable as the Christian devil (though some sects do worship the Biblical Satan, and may therefore be considered unusual variants of Christianity); from the practice of an ancient but misunderstood religion (e.g. Setianism associated with the Egyptian god Set who is conflated by some with the Biblical Satan), to the atheist[2] exaltation of hedonistic recreation and the celebration of self-interest and pleasure as rational practices.
Among LaVeyan Satanists (followers of Anton Szandor LaVey), one of the more organized and visible Satanic groups in modern times, the term Satanism indicates "the first carnal religion in human history"[3]. Careful use of the word, according to one respected website, refers to a "small religious group that is unrelated to any other faith, and whose members feel free to satisfy their urges responsibly, exhibit kindness to their friends, and attack their enemies"[4].
Notes
See also
Religious Organizations
- The Church of Satan
- Temple of Set
- First Church of Satan {"Astra" or "Allee Shadow Tradition"}
- First Satanic Church
Books on the history of Satanism
- Michelet, Jules (1862). Satanism and Witchcraft: The Classic Study of Medieval Superstition. ISBN 978-0806500591. Considered the first modern work to discuss Satanism.
- Cavendish, Richard (1967). The Black Arts: An Absorbing Account of Witchcraft, Demonology, Astrology, and Other Mystical Practices Throughout the Ages. ISBN 978-0399500350. Summary of the history of Witchcraft, Satanism, and Devil Worship in the last part of the book.
- Zacharias, Gerhard (1980). The Satanic Cult. Translated from the German by Christine Trollope
- Medway, Gareth (2001). Lure of the Sinister: The Unnatural History of Satanism. ISBN 978-0814756454.
References
External links
