Satanism! The very word brings strong reactions, usually negative. Many will also write in defense of Satanism. But what is it really? Should you believe the hype - on either side?
Here's a brief look at both sides of the issue, from the perspective of a Wiccan who tries to be objective and to respect the paths of others, so that you might judge for yourself.
There are many different varieties of Satanism. For the most part, Satanists do not really believe in Satan as an entity; rather, they are agnostics who believe in complete personal freedom and who view the shaming doctrine of most Christian (especially the Catholic) churches as evil.
Some Satanists do believe in Satan as an entity. Others believe that Satan was a name given to the Horned God by the medieval Christian church. Others follow Set, the Eqyptian god of darkness.
There are many similarities between Satanism and modern Pagan faiths (sorry guys, I know no one wants to believe this, but t'is true.) For instance, most Satanists practice magick to further their own lives. Female Satanic magic-users refer to themselves often as "witches," and both Satanists (sometimes known, depending on branch, as "Luciferians") and Pagans draw from "Aradia, Gospel of the Witches," ceremonial magick techniques, and the work of Aleister Crowley for inspiration, among others. Both groups ascribe to a philosophy of individual freedom and personal accountability for one's own actions.
The main ideological difference comes in interpretation of certain things. Most Satanists subscribe to a very self-serving philosophy that echoes "do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the law" (ignoring that this is quote is followed by "love is the law, love under will.") They believe that guilt is a tool used to control others, and by freeing oneself of guilt, one is releasing oneself to one's true will. One should indulge one's true desires. Most modern Pagans, on the other hand, subscribe to "an it harm none, do as thou wilt," which still values personal freedom, but not at the expense of the personal freedom of others (Satanic philosophy is colder, and believes that if you do not have the power to defend your own personal freedom, you do not deserve it. Furthermore, most Satanists believe that it is hypocritical to not wish harm to others. They believe it is natural to do so.)
It is worth noting, as well, that the ritual sexual abuse often ascribed to Satanic cults in the 80's and early 90's was proven to be a hoax.
* Disclaimer - please understand that I do not condone or agree with Satanic philosophy in any way. I do, however, believe in making educated decisions rather than following hype. If everyone believed all the press about Wicca . . . well, we know what happens, don't we? I respect religious tolerance, whether or not I agree with the religion. As long as the law is being obeyed, I believe that we all have the right to choose our own path.) *
Blessed be all,
