Embracing the Darkness: The Basics of Satanism on Mosher Mag

Zev Clarke
Dec 29, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Apr 14

Rebellion, Empowerment, and the Unchained Path

Let’s get one thing straight—Satanism is not your typical religious setup. Forget everything you’ve been told about horned devils and sacrificial rituals. The truth? It’s an empowering philosophy that celebrates the individual, the free thinker, and the defiant soul. It’s about breaking free from societal chains and embracing a life of self-discovery, empowerment, and rebellion against the norms that confine you. Ready to dive into the darkness? Let’s talk Satanism—on our terms.

Satanism isn’t a single ideology—it's a rejection of imposed beliefs and an affirmation of personal freedom. The heart of Satanism beats in defiance of conventional religious dogma, offering a sanctuary for those who question, who challenge, and who refuse to live by the rules of a repressive society. Self-empowerment and critical thinking are at its core, calling to those tired of being shackled by traditional moral constraints.

Historically, Satanism has been tied to the image of the Christian devil—a villain created to demonise those who went against the status quo. But that old myth is just that: a myth.

Modern Satanism, as we know it, was reborn in the mid-20th century when Anton LaVey founded the Church of Satan in 1966. LaVey wasn’t about invoking some demonic force—he was about embracing the carnal, the human, and the individual. His Satanic Bible (1969) gave rise to a new philosophy—a philosophy that rejected self-denial, guilt, and the repressive nature of traditional religions, and instead, glorified human nature, individualism, and self-empowerment.

Satanism isn’t just a monolithic belief system—it's a broad umbrella, with two key branches: LaVeyan Satanism and Theistic Satanism. Both offer unique paths for those who embrace the philosophy but approach it with their own personal twist.

LaVeyan Satanism, founded by Anton LaVey, is atheistic at its core. It sees Satan not as a literal being but as a symbol of human nature, self-interest, and the rejection of traditional morality. For LaVeyans, Satan represents individualism, pride, and the embrace of the carnal and earthly pleasures that religion often condemns. Satan isn’t a deity to worship—it’s a symbol of rebellion against oppressive forces.

Key tenets include:

The Nine Satanic Statements: These are about indulgence, vital existence, and personal autonomy. No more self-denial, no more guilt. Embrace your desires—they’re as natural as breathing.
The Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth: These aren’t just guidelines—they’re a roadmap for living life on your terms. Mutual respect, boundaries, and personal responsibility are the order of the day.
Rituals and Symbolism: These rituals are not about summoning demons—they’re about psychodrama and personal empowerment. The Sigil of Baphomet is the emblem of LaVeyan Satanism, symbolizing the freedom to defy authority and celebrate life without shame.

On the flip side, there’s Theistic Satanism (aka Spiritual Satanism). For Theistic Satanists, Satan is real—an actual deity or supernatural being who provides guidance, knowledge, and empowerment. These practitioners engage in rituals to honor Satan, seek his influence, and attain personal enlightenment. Rooted in ancient mythologies and pagan traditions, this branch weaves together the spiritual and the occult.

For these Satanists, Satan represents more than rebellion—it’s freedom, wisdom, and the pursuit of personal sovereignty. They don’t bow to external authority; they invoke Satan to open their minds and expand their spiritual horizons.

Pop culture loves to demonise Satanism. From blood sacrifices to evil cults, the myths surrounding Satanism are as exaggerated as they are baseless. Let’s clear the air:

Satanists are violent or evil: False. Most Satanists are peaceful and law-abiding individuals who believe in personal autonomy. They don’t harm others. Violence and coercion are antithetical to their values. They follow ethical principles rooted in reason and empathy.
Satanism involves sacrifices: This myth is a load of nonsense. Modern Satanism, particularly LaVeyan Satanism, rejects such practices. In fact, Anton LaVey specifically condemned sacrifices as primitive and irrelevant to his philosophy. Satanic rituals are symbolic, focusing on personal growth and catharsis, not bloodshed.
Satanists worship the devil: In LaVeyan Satanism, there’s no literal devil. Satan is not a deity but a symbol—a rebel against oppressive forces, a representation of pride and freedom. Theistic Satanists, however, reframe Satan as a deity, but not in the Christian sense. Satan is a force for personal empowerment, not evil.

These misconceptions? They’re the result of moral panic, media sensationalism, and the misunderstanding of what Satanism truly stands for.

In the 21st century, the Satanic Temple (TST) has emerged as a progressive and activist voice within Satanism. Founded in 2013, TST uses Satanic imagery to advocate for secularism, social justice, and the separation of church and state. They challenge religious displays in public spaces, defend reproductive rights, and fight for freedom of expression.

For TST, Satan is a symbol of rebellion against unjust authority, and they use this iconography to challenge religious privilege in public life. Their activism isn’t about demonic rituals—it’s about empowering individuals to stand up for their rights in a world that often feels dominated by religious zealots and dogmatic institutions.

Through campaigns and legal battles, TST is pushing back against Christian hegemony in public spaces and ensuring that every belief system, including Satanism, is treated equally.

Satanism isn’t for everyone. But for those who feel constrained by mainstream religion and society, it offers a rebellious, empowered, and individualistic path. It’s about questioning, challenging, and ultimately embracing your own humanity. Whether you choose the symbolic rebellion of LaVeyan Satanism or the spiritual enlightenment of Theistic Satanism, Satanism invites you to find your true self—free from guilt, free from shame, and free to explore your own desires.