What defines the beliefs and practices of Satanism?

Definition and Main Concepts

Satanism encompasses various ideological and ritualistic expressions focused on the figure of Satan or the broader concept of self-deification. It diverges widely in its specific beliefs and forms of practice. Some individuals identify with a literal worship of Satan (theistic Satanism), while others view Satan as a symbol of rejection of established religious systems or as an embodiment of self-will (often referred to as atheistic or symbolic Satanism). Despite these differences, most Satanist groups share an adversarial stance against traditional religious structures and emphasize autonomy or rebellion as central themes.

Historical Emergence and Key Movements

Satanic worship and themes of diabolical allegiance can be traced back to various points in history, often associated with accusations of heresy or occult practices in medieval and early modern Europe. In modern times, more structured Satanist organizations appeared, such as the Church of Satan, founded by Anton LaVey in 1966. LaVeyan Satanism, often called “atheistic Satanism,” focuses on the individual as a godlike figure and views Satan as a metaphorical champion of rational self-interest.

Later movements, including the Temple of Set and other forms of theistic Satanism, view Satan (or similar entities) as literal supernatural beings. These variations share a common thread of challenging, in one way or another, the worship and reverence of a Creator God, prioritizing personal or esoteric visions of power and enlightenment.

Core Beliefs

1. Rejection of Traditional Faiths

Many forms of Satanism arose as a conscious rejection of mainstream religious beliefs. The biblical witness states, “No wonder, then, that Satan masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). In many Satanic philosophies, the conventional concepts of good and evil are inverted or reinterpreted, leading adherents to regard defiance as a spiritual virtue.

2. Individual Autonomy and Power

Satanism often promotes the pursuit of personal freedom from moral constraints. Followers might see themselves as the ultimate authority in ethical decision-making. This belief corresponds with the serpent’s temptation in Genesis: “You will not surely die… your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:4–5). That narrative highlights a desire for independence from God, echoed by many Satanic viewpoints.

3. Self-Deification or Satan as Symbol

In modern symbolic or atheistic Satanism, Satan represents the archetype of self-empowerment and rebellion rather than a literal deity. It is an embrace of pride and willpower that the Scriptures warn against: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). The emphasis is on self-rule without submission to any transcendent authority.

4. Occult Rituals and Ceremonies

Some groups practice ritual magic, often aiming to harness spiritual forces deemed favorable or to align with Satan as an entity or metaphor. While atheistic variants may treat rituals more as psychodrama, theistic branches see them as genuine appeals to demonic or satanic entities. Biblically, such practices are frequently condemned: “They sacrificed to demons, not to God” (Deuteronomy 32:17).

Scriptural Perspectives on Satanic Influence

Throughout Scripture, Satan is depicted as the adversary who opposes God and seeks to lead humanity astray. The New Testament describes him as “the ruler of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:2) and warns believers to remain watchful. First Peter 5:8–9 explains: “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in your faith…”

Satan’s origin in biblical texts revolves around rebellion against God (cf. Isaiah 14:12–15 as a poetic illustration of prideful downfall) and his ongoing efforts to counterfeit divine truth. He is seen tempting humanity to idolatry or direct occult worship, thus underlining the biblical teaching that turning from God’s worship toward Satan (or any demons) is a grave offense.

Key Varieties of Satanism

1. Theistic (Traditional) Satanism

• Adherents believe in Satan as an actual spiritual being

• Rituals seek communion or pact with demonic forces

• Emphasize direct interaction with the supernatural realm

2. LaVeyan or Atheistic Satanism

• Views Satan as a symbol of rebellion, not a real deity

• Places emphasis on self-empowerment, individualism, and hedonism

• Rituals often function as symbolic acts, with no literal demonic involvement

3. Eclectic and Other Variants

• Groups or individuals blend elements of different occult traditions

• May incorporate pagan deities, dark spiritual principles, or esoteric philosophies

• Retain overarching themes of defiance or focus on personal ascension

Cultural and Philosophical Influences

Modern rationalist perspectives, humanist sentiments, and fascination with occult literature have shaped Satanic thought. Philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche influenced some Satanic movements, particularly in the emphasis on individual “will to power.” During the Enlightenment, some occult groups adopted rebellious themes, ultimately laying groundwork for contemporary Satanism.

Biblical Condemnation and Warnings

Throughout Scripture, believers are cautioned to avoid acknowledging or venerating powers opposed to God (2 Corinthians 6:14–16). In the New Testament, occult practices are consistently rejected, such as the account of new believers in Ephesus who burned their magic scrolls (Acts 19:19). The biblical admonition is clear that any homage to Satan contravenes the allegiance owed solely to the God who created heaven and earth.

Additionally, the Bible underscores that Satan’s ways lead to spiritual bondage. The theme of deception is central: “He was a murderer from the beginning… for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). In the biblical worldview, involvement in Satanic practices blinds and enslaves rather than offering authentic freedom or enlightenment.

Contemporary Observations and Research

Sociologically, the varied expressions of Satanism often attract those disillusioned by traditional religion or seeking identity within countercultural frameworks. Many public Satanic organizations downplay literal evil or harm, instead promoting social activism. Despite such rebranding efforts, the central narrative remains one of opposition to the worship of the eternal Creator.

From a historical and behavioral standpoint, anecdotal testimonies have surfaced of individuals who once participated in occult or explicitly Satanic rituals describing spiritual turmoil, addiction, or destructive behaviors—and later attributing deliverance to personal repentance and divine intervention. These narratives align with what Scripture portrays about the nature of demonic deception and eventual spiritual enslavement.

Archaeological and Cultural Context

While direct archaeological evidence of organized Satanism in ancient times is minimal, occult or demonic worship references appear within texts from Mesopotamian and Egyptian cultures, suggesting that veneration of malevolent deities or spirits predates modern Satanism. These sources illustrate that ancient civilizations had some framework for demonic or rebellious spiritual entities—a concept that aligns with scriptural depictions of spiritual warfare and fallen beings.

Conclusion

Satanism, in all its forms, is defined by its emphasis on rebellion, personal autonomy at the expense of submission to the Creator, and frequently by occult symbolism or practices. The Bible repeatedly warns about Satan’s deception, underscoring that God alone is worthy of worship and that any homage paid to demonic forces leads to spiritual harm.

Those who examine Satanism from a biblical lens see it as the outworking of humanity’s fallen desire for independence from divine authority. The biblical message remains that true freedom and purpose are not found in rebellion but in worship of the Maker, for “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).