1. What is Satanism?
At first glance this may look like a simple question to answer: "Go
look it up in the dictionary." would seem to be straightforward
enough. In fact, I'll do it for you:
Satanism, n. 1. the worship of Satan or the powers of
evil. 2. a travesty of Christian rites in which Satan
is worshipped. 3. diabolical or satanic disposition,
behavior, or action.
[from _Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English
Language_, (c) 1989] 1. The Dabblers: adopt Satanic trappings for a brief
period of time, usually for entertainment rather than
serious purposes. Many modern youths fall into this category.
2. Churches of Satan: are patterned after the teachings of
Anton LaVey. These groups believe in individualism, gratification
of the ego, self-reliance and the ideal of the Nietzchean Superman.
These groups use Magick as a tool for earthly power. They see
Satan as the driving force behind achievment in mankind.
3. Gnostics: can be divided into two major categories
3a. Promethian Gnostics: Believe in a literal "Satan", but believe
that the creator of the world (Jehovah) is the evil deity. Satan is
seen as the "bringer of light"; a beneficient god. This is an old
"heresy" seen in groups such as the Yezidis.
3b. Dark Gnostics: Worship the dark force in nature. These groups
follow the whims of a capricious god, which most westerners would
see as being "evil." There are a few historical christian heresies
which would fall into this category. Kali worshippers could also
be categorized here.
4. Secondary Satanists: follow a faith outside the Christian
mainstream. Most would not consider themselves as being "Satanic"
and strictly speaking should not be defined as satanists (as per se
with some of the Gnostic groups), but the ignorant often categorize
them as Satanists. Voodoun and Santiera could be grouped here, as
could medeaval witchcraft (if it actually existed). Certain forms of
Tantric Buddism could also be placed in this category.
5. Hellfire Clubs: Were a phenomenon of the 18th century. The
first of these was founded by the Duke of Wharton in the early
1700's. Most infamous was sir Francis Dashwood's Medmenham club
(Often incorrectly called the hellfire club). Dashwood was a
close freind of Benjamin Franklin, who may have been a member of
this group. Franklin's description of the Medmeham club's
secret chambers is one of the few we have, so his membership seems
likely. In any case, Dashwood and Franklin co-authored the "Franklin
Prayer Book" (often called the Book of Common Prayer) which is
commonly used in America. Another famous member of the Medmanham club
was the Earl of Sandwich, inventor of (guess what) the Sandwich.
Hellfire clubs were exclusive groups dedicated to much political
intrigue, partying, and some occasional occult activities.
6. Romantic/Promethean Satanists
Literary/historical "Satanists" -William Blake, Charles Baudelaire,
Maupertin, Lautremont and Gabriele D'Annunzio.
7. Left-Hand Path Pagans
There are several European groups, most of them consisting of small
"covens" of several people, that are or could be considered
Satanists. Two of the larger of these groups are The Fraternity of
Baelder and the Order of Nine Angles (ONA). These groups allegedly
have longer traditions, and "more authentic" origins (whatever that
might mean). ONA is especially fond of calling itself the
"traditional Satanists."
These groups tend to have more "extreme" views than the others
mentioned, and have little, if any authoritarian structure. Some
allege these groups do not exist, but they answer my mail. 1. Satan represents indulgence, instead of abstinence!
2. Satan represents vital existence, instead of
spiritual pipe dreams!
3. Satan represents undefiled wisdom, instead of
hypocritical self-deceit!
4. Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it,
instead of love wasted on ingrates!
5. Satan represents vengeance, instead of turning the
other cheek!
6. Satan represents responsibility to the responsible,
instead of concern for psychic vampires!
7. Satan represents man as just another animal,
sometimes better than, more often worse than those that
walk on all fours, who, because of his "divine
spiritual and intellectual development," has become the
most vicious animal of all!
8. Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they
all lead to physical, mental, or emotional
gratification!
9. Satan has been the best friend the church has ever
had, as he has kept it in business all these years!
(getting it)
_The Satanic Bible_ can be found (in America) in most chain bookstores
in the New Age, Philosophy, or Religion sections.
Many non-U.S. readers have written that _The Satanic Bible_ is not
available in their country for various reasons. I suggest dealing with
The Abyss bookstore (Address & phone# listed at the end of the FAQ) or
writing/phoning the publisher directly. (Special thanx to the Italian
fellow who came up with these addresses & phonenumbers)
Avon Books
1350 Ave. of the Americas, 2nd Fl.
New York, NY10019
TEL.: 212-261-6800
TOLL FREE: 800-238-0658
Ordering info:
Dist by: Hearst Corp., International Circulation Div
New York, NY 10019
TEL.: 212-649-4474
TOLL FREE: 800-223-0288
Orders to:
P.O. Box 767
Dresden, TN 38225
TOLL FREE: 800-223-0690
(about it)
Members of a certain group have noticed that much of the Satanic Bible is
plagiarized from various sources; the above-quoted "Nine Satanic Statements"
are condensed from a passage in Ayn Rands _Atlas Shrugged_ and the "Book of
Satan" is plagiarized from Ragnar Redbeards _Might is Right_. In this, the
SB seems similar to the texts of most other religions; also plagiarized
from earlier sources; the Tao Te Ching, the Xian Bible and the Koran being
obvious examples.
3. Satanic Organizations?
Some may be interested in joining some kind of organization of like minded
individuals. Most Satanists will agree that organizations are best when
least intrusive on the individual, and would recommend caution in joining
or associating with any group, including (and perhaps especially) those
mentioned in the FAQ. Some useful "common sense" cautions for the potential
neophyte Satanist; Don't let anyone tell you what to believe, or what to do.
Advice or recommendations are one thing; orders or commands quite another.
Remember that you are a free being, not a pawn in someones power fantasy.
Trust your feelings; if you feel you may be the victim of a working of Lesser
Black Magick, you probably are (in some sense).
It is important to realize that all organizations, Satanic and otherwise,
are _dangerous_; by their very nature they have more available physical,
economic and psychological resources than the individual who would interact
with them, hence one should exercise caution in ones dealings with
any organization or one could find oneself with less freedom, a destroyed
reputation, legal troubles, or worse.
With this in mind; several of the more important Satanic organizations:
3.1 The Church of Satan
The Church of Satan can be contacted at:
Church of Satan
P.O. Box 210082
San Francisco, CA 94121
$100 will get you a lifetime membership.
Some people question whether the term "Satanism" is appropriate for
the Church's beliefs, due to its atheistic stance. Since the Church
has been in existence for over 20 years its definition is probably
here to stay, although it isn't the only definition.
The ideas and philosophy of the Church of Satan may be best discerned
by reading _The Satanic Bible_ by Anton Szandor LaVey (Avon Books, New
York, NY).
(From Peggy Nadramia:)
In modern parlance, the Church of Satan may be called a user-driven
organization. Members are involved and advanced exactly as their own
desires, abilities and accomplishments dictate. There are no set
activities, meetings or contacts. The new member comes to the
organization, ideally, with his own goals and plans for achieving
them; he presents them to us and is directed in the way that would be
most mutually beneficial. The CoS is not looking for people who join and
want us to "put on a show," taking them by the hand, introducing them
to their new friends, telling them what time to show up for the
weekly get-together and what to wear. Satanists are not put in
contact automatically, or by geographical proximity; this has been
tried and found a failure. True elitists are by their nature very
individualistic and neighboring members won't necessarily have
anything in common; "just being Satanists together" isn't enough.
When we observe members making advances on their own in their chosen
fields of endeavor, we will put them in contact with other members
running on the same track; we've watched this happen many times and
we're pleased and proud to say the results are magical. There are also
members who are satisfied simply to join and be counted among the
adherents to a philosophy that best embodies their own true nature.
*****
An excellent introduction to the philosophies of the Church of Satan
is available at ftp.lysator.liu.se in pub/satanism/General/what_is
nadramia@panix.com is the CoS online representative.
3.2 The Order of the Left Hand Path
The Ordo Sinistra Vivendi (OSV), formerly the Order of the Left
Hand Path (OLHP) is a non-sectarian, non-dogmatic forum of philosophers
and occultists. It was started in New Zealand a number of years ago by
Faustus Scorpius. The purpose of the OSV, as per the Order's constitution,
is as follows:
1. The OSV is an elitist Satanic Order existing to:
(a) Develop and actualize the full potential and inner qualities
of each indiviual initiate;
(b) Herald the dawn of human Self-godhood, within the context of
a Faustian Civilization.
OSV publish a quarterly magazine called _The Heretic_ (a
combination of two former magazines, _The Watcher_ and _The Realist_).
They also publish a wide variety of literature, including the _Liber
Diabolus_ (which contains the Order's main rituals, _The Covenant of
Samyaza_ - a reworking of _The Book of Enoch_, and various philosophical
essays by Faustus Scorpius).
The OSV operate 3 degrees (via correspondence), Neophyte, Adept,
and Priest/ess. The Neophyte and Adept courses are fairly simple and are
mainly to assist in determining what sort of person is seeking affiliation.
Entry into the priesthood by an Adept is at the invitation of the Magister
only, in order to keep membership standards high.
A great deal of emphasis is placed on the Nietzschean concept of
'Self-Overcoming' as the basis of individual self-realization.
Contact points are being set up in all the main centres in New
Zealand: Wellington (The Capital of NZ), Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin.
The OSV welcomes all sincere seekers after wisdom undefiled and
students of those hidden depths of the human psyche and cosmos which may
properly be called 'occult'.
For all enquiries write to:
O.S.V.
P.O. Box 38-262
Petone
Wellington
New Zealand
Or send netmail to: gwilson@earthlight.co.nz
Fidonet: Graeme Wilson @ 3:770/510
[Note: The OSV has archived material at ftp.lysator.liu.se
pub/religion/satanism/OLHP]
3.3 The Order of Nine Angles
The Order of Nine Angles (ONA), based in England, are probably the
most controversial Satanic group that is around at present. Their aims and
intents, and indeed their teachings, seem to me misunderstood and perhaps
feared by many people, including some other Satanic groups.
The ONA claim the title of 'traditional Satanists' and claim to
have been around for well over one hundred years. The system they follow is
known as the Septenary tradition, 'the seven-fold Way'.
'Physis' is divided into seven stages, which represent the varying
degrees of insight attained; the stages representing Initiation, Second
Degree Initiation, External Adept, Internal Adept, Master/Mistress (or High
Priest/Priestess), Magus, and Immortal. Much of the work is very practical.
A great and refreshing aspect to ONA is 'The Star Game' which has
three main functions:
(1) Development of higher levels of consciousness.
(2) A new form of magickal working for the 21st Century and beyond.
(3) Development of certain 'magickal' skills, aiding mindfullness,
concentration and visualization.
Some ONA literature:
The Black Book of Satan (Volumes 1 - 3)
Naos - A Practical Guide to Modern Magick
Hostia (Volumes 1 -3)
Hysteron Proteron - Inner teachings of the ONA
The Sinister Tarot - 21 full color representations of the
major Arcana
The Satanic Letters of Stephen Brown (Volumes 1 - 2)
The Deofel Quartet:
Volume i. Falcifer, Lord of Darkness
Volume ii. Temple of Satan
Volume iii. The Giving
Volume iv. The Greyling Owl
The Self-Immolation Rite (Audio Cassette) - Pathworking
Fenrir - Journal of Satanism & The Sinister
Whatever rumours are told about the ONA one should check them out for
themselves. Whether you agree with them or not, they certainly live up to
the name 'Satanists'.
Anyone interested in the above should contact:
Rigel Press
PO Box 228, York
Y01 2GZ
England
(Note: the ftp site ftp.lysator.liu.se has two files written by the ONA;
pub/religion/satanism/General/introduction and ~/t21sp)
3.4 The Fraternity of Baelder
The Fraternity of Baelder section is under construction pending new
information. Address given in section 13 of the FAQ.
4. Satan is a Christian God!
You aren't Satanists, just nasty atheists!
Most (probably all) religions have gods or demons that represent the
principle of adversity: that which is forbidden by society. Satan is
one among these, originally conceived by the Hebrews long before the
birth of Jesus. The name first appears (in _The Bible_, at any rate)
in the book of Job. Satan was a fallen angel, not a god, in the
monotheistic religions of Christianity and Islam.
"Satan" is understood by most Satanists in a context different than
that of Christian theology. Satan is a powerful archetype, to the
Euro-American Usenet majority at least, bringing to mind such things
as sexuality, power, individualism and control over one's destiny.
The Satanist can choose what s/he likes from the varied portrayals of
Satan, and may add principles of adversity from other cultures as
well.
5. Aren't Satanists ritualistic baby murderers?
Some misleading reports exist about Satanists: they are organized
into nationwide cults; they commit ritual murders on a grand scale;
they raise their children with psychological disorders; they kidnap
people for blood sacrifice; they organize day-care centers and abuse
the children placed in their care. A whole class of books exists
detailing the exploits of these Satanic groups.
The problem with all these works is that they are fictional rather
than truthful accounts. Much is claimed based on scanty evidence that
would be better explained by another scenario. Claims of involvement
with Satanism are made by patients under hypnosis (hypnotized subjects
are notorious for their suggestibility and tendency to produce
fictions). Other "former Satanists" distort the truth in search of
attention and money. These sensationalists never go to the police
regarding the criminal activities they allegedly took part in, which
calls the veracity of their claims and the sincerity of their remorse
into question.
Evidence does not exist to support what is said to occur. If the
number of murders said to be committed by Satanists was accurate, some
bodies should have been found by now. While means have been suggested
by which bodies could be concealed, it stretches the imagination to
believe that every body has been successfully hidden thus. Evidence
in other areas is similarly lacking.
Individuals investigating suspected Satanic crimes misinterpret what
they find to fit their expectations. The _Necronomicon_, published by
Avon Books, is used as an authoritative guide to Satanic practices.
Yet few Satanists take the book seriously in any way, and none follow
it to the letter. This and other things lead some non-Satanists to
see what simply is not there.
The observant reader may note that there have been a few crimes linked
to Satanism. In all cases the criminal(s) worked alone with no
connections to other groups. Some cases have been publicized by the
media as being related to Satanism when in fact they involve another
religion, as in the Matamoros case, which involved some elements of
Palo Mayombe (an African religion), and some rituals taken from popular
motion pictures.
The lesson to be learned is that although a book may appear in the
"Non-fiction" section of a bookstore, that doesn't make it so.
There is a copy of an FBI report on "occult crime" archived
at ftp.lysator.liu.se pub/religion/satanism/Crime/satanic_crime
which shows what the FBI thinks of the claims of fundamentalists.
There is also a good file on the subject at the same site
pub/religion/satanism/General/general
The most definative book to date on the topic of rumors of Satanic
cults involved in ritual murder/abuse is
_Satanic Panic; the Creation of a Contemporary Legend_ by Jeffry
S. Victor. Open Court Press, 1992
6. Do Satanists have orgies? If so, where do I sign up?
Hmmm...I trust that some do, but I have been unable to locate any as
of yet.
7. What is Xian? COS? TOS? TSB?
Do you say "Xian" rather than "Christian" in order to insult
Christianity?
Some users in this and other newsgroups find themselves discussing
Christianity frequently. In order to cut down on keystrokes they type
"Xian" and "Xianity" rather than the longer versions. A few users may
intend it partly as a slur, but most do it only for convenience. The
abbreviation itself is far from insulting; it is accepted and used by
many Christians including (We are told) the Pope.
A few other abbreviations occur frequently in this newsgroup. They
are normally defined in a conversation, but here they are for your
convenience:
CoS = Church of Satan
CS = Church of Satan
ToS = Temple of Set
TS = Temple of Set
TSB = _The Satanic Bible_
OT = Old Testament
NT = New Testament
OLHP = Order of the Left Hand Path
OSV = Ordo Sinistra Vivendi
ONA = Order of the Nine Angles
8. Have you considered the message of _The Bible_?
Yes. Most Satanists, along with most other members of Western
cultures, are familiar with the teachings of Christianity and many
have read _The Bible_ or part of it. They simply consider _The Bible_
to be false and disregard it much like Christians would disregard
books which represent the foundation of another religion. Attempting
to discuss Christianity will, in most cases, only get you flamed and
not inform the Satanist of "something they didn't know". If you are
still tempted to post about _The Bible_ because you feel that we may
have missed an important point, I suggest you seek out and read the
alt.atheism FAQ (found in news.answers) before proceeding. Many of
its points are applicable to alt.satanism.
9. For the Christians among us: should you feel inclined to preach.
You are all going to hell.
Jesus saves!
Quite often, members of fundamentalist Christian groups see fit to
post various evangelical messages in alt.satanism. The reason for
this is not clear. It has been suggested by various members of this
net, who I shall lump under the convenient category of "Satanist,"
that the reason for this posturing is that many (perhaps most)
Born-Again Christian types are closet masochists. It has also been
suggested that Christians need to save a certain number of souls to
get a good seat in paradise, similar in spirit to selling candy-bars
or magazines to fund various extra-curricular activities in school.
Presumably Satanist souls, being sold to the devil already, are worth
more points.
While these theories have some merit, considering the teachings
of their (allegedly) chosen religion, an attempt should be made to be
open-minded enough to see their side of things.
Many Christians, when asked why they do this, respond something
to the effect that it is charity, something they do out of the
goodness of their hearts, out of concern for people etc. etc. Well,
if the Christian is really concerned with people, why not preach to
those who have not heard the message? Most "Satanists" are well
acquainted with the messages of Christianity. They have been preached
to ad infinitum, and are fed up with it. That is part of the reason
they are Satanists instead of plain old agnostics. Many Satanists are
angered by such posts, and justifiably so.
Now consider this:
You will never convert a Satanist over USENET. You either
1) are too infuriating;
2) look like a fool.
There is NO logical reason to convert to Christianity. The only
appeals are to the emotions, and as stated before they either look
foolish or infuriating. Things like, "But Jesus LOVES you; he died
for your sins!" or "Your soul is in danger!" are appeals to guilt and
fear respectively; not reason. As most Satanists have chosen this
path out of reason, these appeals will never work. As for those
Satanists who are so for emotional reasons, their minds are as closed
as that of the Born-again Christian. Perhaps, if indeed preaching is
done for humanitarian, and not egotistical or masochistic reasons,
your energies are better spent educating those who know little of your
faith: those born atheistic, communists, buddhists etc. If, as
suspected, your purposes are more egotistical (look reverend; I
converted a Satanist!) forget it. There are no "lost souls," waiting
to be found in this community.
For the masochistically inclined, we suggest self-flagellation.
It costs less disk space, is probably more satisfying, and is
certainly less offensive to the general public.
Otherwise; GROWL! BOOGA BOOGA! HASTUR, ASTAROTH, LEVIATHAN
ISHTAR!!!!!!!!! XILKA XILKA! BESA BESA! go away already...
10. Satanic Music
This section under construction
11. What is a Black Mass?
Ba> Permit me to provide some education concerning the Satanic use of the
Ba> Black Mass.
Ba>
Ba> 1) Anyone can perform any ritual at any time. The Catholic Church
Ba> requires the celebrant of any mass to be a Priest of that Church.
Ba> Satanism doesn't recognize any of the rules or expectations of the
Ba> Catholics (or any group of Christians), and so they don't care who
Ba> might happen to be the celebrant.
Ba>
Ba> 2) When looked at as black theatre in today's strongly Christianized
Ba> society, the black mass is a fun ritual. I participated in one years
Ba> ago, as a Halloween presentation, before an audience. The three of us
Ba> doing most of the "work" in the ritual had read up on it a little, but
Ba> only one of us had any Catholic background (I have no Christian
Ba> background at all, having been raised Jewish, and the third one had
Ba> been raised Mormon; none of us had reached any level of clergy or even
Ba> near-clergy in any traditional religion). The living altar was not a
Ba> Satanist, and sought her part only for the experience and showmanship
Ba> (she was the hostess of the party at which the play was offered). None
Ba> of the rest of the audience was Satanic, and a goodly number were
Ba> Christians of one sort or another. The presentation bothered three of
Ba> the audience strongly enough that they walked out. The others may have
Ba> been bothered a little (good theatre does try to reach into people),
Ba> but they generally enjoyed the presentation, and had no problem talking
Ba> with us about it afterwards.
Ba>
Ba> 3) The personal black mass happens to be a very strong ritual used by
Ba> many to leave their Catholic backgrounds behind. The individual
Ba> involved must be the primary celebrant, doing whatever is necessary
Ba> to break free of the chains and shackles of the religion being left
Ba> behind.
Ba>
Ba> 4) There is no devil worship in any Satanic black mass. Except for
Ba> some examples of the theatre I mention in item 2 above, every modern
Ba> Satanic black mass that I've read about (including the detailed texts
Ba> of several) or heard about centers on freeing the individual from the
Ba> shackles of Christianity, and on denying any value to the so-called
Ba> Jesus Christ, to the point of ridicule and derision. None of them have
Ba> any significant reference to Satan, devil, or demon at all, under any
Ba> name.
12. How can I get more information about Satanism?
[Lupo's note; in addition to the sites mentioned above
ftp.netcom.com /pub/caw/Info/mage-guide2 has the mages guide to the Internet,
which is an excellent resource
The nic.funet.fi files are in the path pub/doc/religion/occult/magick/thelema
(this is the original slopoke tree moved to funet)
Recommended Reading:
(technical stuff/true satanism)
_The Satanic Bible_, by Anton Szander LaVey, Avon Books, 1969.
Presents the Satanic views and doctrines of the Church of Satan,
along with an introduction to its rituals.
_The Compleat Witch_ (the new edition is called _The Satanic Witch_),
by Anton LaVey, Lancer Books, 1971.
_The Satanic Rituals_, by Anton LaVey, University Books, 1972.
More books discussing LaVey's brand of Satanism.
_The Black Arts_, by Richard Cavendish, Perigee Books (Putnam), 1967.
An objective introduction to magic, demonology, and classical
views of Satanism.
_The Necronomicon_ [by the Mad Arab], Avon Books, 1977.
Purported ritual book of great efficacy. Generally regarded as
fiction interspersed with translations of Mesopotamian texts.
Mileage may vary, depending on how seriously you take babble.
This is included mainly because of its availablity and
popularity; I actually strongly recommend that you do _not_
buy this. Much information on books of this name is available
in the Necronomicon FAQ written by Kendrick Chua, allegedly
archived at io.com & alt.horror.cthulhu.
_The Necronomicon_ edited by George Hay 1978.
This is a more "Lovecraftian" Necronomicon which closely follows
what Lovecraft said was contained in the famous book of the Mad
Arab. It is, of course, fiction, but much more fun than the Avon
book in that it does not take itself so seriously. Scoob publishing
is supposed to have a R'lyeh text in the works as a sequel to this.
(Satanic history)
_The Secret Life of a Satanist_ by Blanche Barton, Mondo Press.
The authorized biography of Anton LaVey, and a basic guide to
Satanic philosophy. This book has been largely discredited as a
serious biography by an article in the 9/5/91 issue of _Rolling
Stone_
_The Church of Satan_ by Blanche Barton
The CoS authorized book on the topic.
_The Second Coming_, by Arthur Lyons, 1970 [out of print]
A history of Satanism through the Middle Ages and the modern era.
_Do What You Will_ by Geoffry Ashe
A history of philosophers & groups who use this thelemic motto.
Especially nice history of the "Hellfire Clubs"
_The Prince of Darkness_ by Jeffrey Burton Russell, Cornell University
Press, 1988.
Historians work on the history of Satan from earliest history
through the twentieth century. A summary of a four-book series
(The Devil, Satan, Lucifer, and Mephistopheles, by the same
author) which may be too much reading for casual interest.
_The Old Enemy_ by Neil Forsyth, Princeton University Press, 1987.
Another history of Satan focusing on the Middle East and early
Christianity.
_Satan Wants You_, by Arthur Lyons, Mysterious Press (Warner), 1988.
Presents an overview of Satanism and the history of Satan, plus
an in-depth look at popular misconceptions.
_The Occult_ by Colin Wilson
An excellent objective introduction to the history of the subject.
_The History of the Church of Satan_ by Michael Aquino
Probably the definative work on the topic; it is unavailable to
the general public due to various copyright laws. It may be available
to historians and scholars through the Temple of Set.
_The Devil in Legend and Literature_ by Maximillian Rudwin. Open Court
Press, Chicago 1931.
(on and pertaining to Xtian fictions of Satanism)
_Satanic Panic; the Creation of a Contemporary Legend_ by Jeffry
S. Victor. Open Court Press, 1992
This book is an excellent debunking of the many "evil satanist"
rumors and legends that abound in rural and mainstream america.
It shows the similarities between these rumors, and those of
the inquisition, European anti-semetism, and the McCarthy red-scares.
_The Satan Seller_, Mike Warnke's imagination, Logos International,
1972.
A Christian presents his alleged experiences in a Satanic cult
before his conversion to Christianity. Has been exposed by
fundamentalist journalists as a fraud.
_Cornerstone_, Volume 21, number 98, "Selling Satan," Jon Trott & Mike
Hertenstein, 1992.
This gets *highest* recommendation. From a Christian magazine
which does a great job of discrediting Mike Warnke's accounts
mentioned in _The Satan Seller_ and elsewhere
_Satanism: The Seduction of America's Youth_, Bob Larson, Thomas
Nelson Publishers, 1989.
The facts on the *conspiracy* now coming to a lonely town near
you!!! (You're reading the FAQ, so it's already here!)
[Lupo note: Apparently Bob Larson is going down the tubes faster
than Warnke. See relevant files from Scott Mikusko, available
via FTP-mail by sending the message
get \religion\garg\misc\larson\larson.zip
to: server@garg.campbell.ca.us]
Following are a number of works recommended dealing with Satanism's
links with crime, multiple personality disorder, etc.
_The Satanism Scare_, ed. James T. Richardson, Joel Best, and David G.
Bromley (NY: Aldine, 1991): 145-172.
[Lupo note; though I have not yet read this book, the authors of the
essays herin are enough to recommend this book]
_Battle for the Mind_, by William Sargent, Harper & Row, 1957.
_In Pursuit Of Satan_, by Robert D. Hicks (Prometheus Books),
_Satanism In America_, issued by the Committee for the Scientific
Examination of Religion.
"Occult Crime: A Law Enforcement Primer"
[To obtain a copy of this report, write to
California Office of Criminal Justice Planning
1130 K Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
(Phone: (916) 324-9100). Request the "Research Update, Special
Edition, Winter 1989-1990, Volume 1, Number 6" issue. No mention
is made of a donation, but it may be useful to inquire
beforehand.]
_Snapping; America's Epidemic of Sudden Personality Change_ by Flo
Conway & Jim Siegelman.
An interesting work utilizing information theory in the study of
sudden personality change as occurs in religious cults, and the
"Born-Again" phenomenon.
(Satan in art and Philosophy)
_Paradise Lost_ by John Milton.
An epic poem telling the tale of Lucifer from when he is thrown
out of heaven, to the Fall of Adam and Eve. It makes Lucifer
into a heroic figure, whilst God is made out to be a little vague
and weak.
_The Divine Comedy_ by Dante.
Another epic poem in three parts (Inferno, Purgatorio and
Paradisio) covering the author's pilgrimage through them.
_La-Bas (Down There)_ by J. K. Huysmans (1891?) translated by
Keene Wallace.
Semi-fictional novel of the occult and the black mass in late
nineteenth century Paris.
H. P. Lovecraft, collected works.
Classic horror fiction that has served as inspiration for many
Satanists.
Frederick Nietzsche, various works
Nietzschean philosophies form the core of Satanism. Much of the
_Satanic Bible_ owes its philosophical and literary roots to works
such as _Thus Spoke Zarastrutha_ and _The Anti-Christ_ by
Nietzsche.
_Man and Technics_ by Oswald Spengler
An extension of Nietzsches philosophy to the modern age; Spenglers
philosophy is condensed into this small book; a must read. (Study
of the voluminous _The Decline of Western Civilization_ may prove
useful to those interested in theories of history and politics)
Gabriele D'Annunzio, various works
One of the greatest Italian writers of all time, D'Annunzio was
a living archetype of the Nietzschean "Ubermensch."
(weird stuff of interest to the Satanist)
_Cosmic Trigger_ by Robert A. Wilson
This book describes various initiations and occult phenomena
experienced by Mr. Wilson. Good for promoting open-mindedness.
Wilson writes some great fiction as well in his "Illuminatus"
books.
_Apocalypse Culture_ collected by Adam Parfey.
A shocking work, depicting the worldviews of various "fringe"
sects and individuals, ranging from necrophiliacs to ultra-right
wing Christians. Has an article by LaVey.
_TAZ (Temporary Autonomous Zone)_ by Hakim Bey, Autonomedia 1991
Generally considered the manifesto of the emerging anarchic
cyber-culture. A manual for freedom in the coming (or present,
depending on who you talk to) dark age of Airstrip one. Described
by RA Wilson as "A Blake Angel on Bad Acid."
_Might is Right_ by Ragnar Redbeard (Loompanics, Port Townsend Wash)
Part of the _Satanic Bible_ taken from this, the full work is
occasionally uproarious fun, occasionally offensive to "modern"
sensibilities.
(Biblical debunking)
_Who Wrote the Bible?_, by Richard Elliott Friedman, Harper & Row,
1987.
A biblical scholar attempts to answer the question of the title,
and in the process comes up with some interesting reasons for
events in _The Bible_ (why does Moses have horns? Why the scene
with the golden calf?). An interesting read, and possibly
amusing for the cynic.
_The Dead Sea Scrolls_
There are many good books on this subject for those who need to
debunk Christianity historically as well as philosophically.
Among them:
_Dead Sea Scrolls & the Bible_ by Roland E. Murphy (a Roman
Catholic at that) 1968
_A Crack in the Jar; What ancient Jewish Documents tell
us about the New Testament_ by Niel Fujita (also a
Christian scholar) 1986
_The Dead Sea Scrolls and the Christian Myth_ by John
Allegro (one of the original Dead Sea Scholars) 1984
Note than all of the above scholars are of the old school of
scroll study. While all do a good job of debunking Christianity,
the latest generation of scholarly works is even more damning.
_Testament_ by John Romer (Henry Holt, NY 1988)
Considered an excellent and well balanced work on Biblical history
-also a PBS mini-series available on video cassette.
13. Where can I get supplies?
There are several "occult bookstores" who do mail order. Some
are listed below;
The Abyss
RR1 Box 213
Chester MA 01011-9735
413-623-2155 (FAX 413-623-2156)
[comment by Lupo; This is where _I_ obtained most of my books. They have
much that is of interest to the occultist. The catalogue is outstanding
and much of the merchandise is underpriced. Excellent section of Crowley
material, a decent LHP section, good selection of various occult
merchendise & books of all kinds. Highly recommended]
Loompanics Unlimited
PO Box 1197
Port Townsend, WA 98368
[Carries many books on forbidden topics, unobtainable elsewhere. ]
Occultic Haven
PO Box 257
Johnson City, TENN 37605
[Exclusively LHP distributers, They have a small selection of LHP
literature, swords/knives, candles, jewelry & several items that may
be unobtainable elsewhere. No experience with orders so YMMV]
Ancient Ways, Modern Means
An online Occult Supplier; contact tyagi@HouseOfKaos.Abyss.com
for more details.
'Zines: (note; the Watcher is archived at funet and lysator ftp sites)
Also, I have not included prices of these 'zines for various reasons (mostly
greed on my part)- they usually run around $5 per issue. A later edition of
the FAQ will include price listings & self-descriptions of these groups
will be archived.
The Black Flame (Journal of the Church of Satan)
P.O. Box 499
Radio City Station
N.Y., N.Y. 10101
[Extremely useful review section, eclectic articles. Hells Kitchen
Productions is also at this address -they have certain items that
may be unobtainable elsewhere.]
_ABRASAX #4_ A magazine published by the American Gnostic Church.
Issue #4 is dedicated to Satan & satanic matters generally. They
can be reached at:
American Gnostic Church
PO BOX 1219
Corpus Christi, TX, 78403-1219
Fraternity of Baelder [Name of group, not 'zine]
c/o Stephen Cox
60 Elmhurst Road
Reading, Berks
RG15HY
England, UK
[LHP "pagans" -interests include Sports Magick, Shamanism, Rune Magick
Western mythology & etc.]
Black Jackal (Embassat of Lucifer)
P.O. Box 998
Stewart, British Columbia
VOT 1WO Canada
[Lupo Comments; I know little of this 'zine; the _Black Flame_ gives
it good reviews. YMMV]
Dark Cycle; Australian Journal of Occultism
P.O. Box 1639
Chatswood NSW 2057 Australia
The Heretic (Formerly the Watcher and the Realist)
P.O. Box 38-262
Petone, Wellington, New Zealand
[Lupo comments; An eclectic Zine (though an organ of the OSV), older
issues of which are archived in the various aformentioned FTP sites]
Onslaught
Luciferian Light Group
P.O. Box 7207
Tampa, FL 33673
[Lupo comments; Though they have advertised in various Satanic journals
for some years now, I know nothing about this group, so YMMV. They have
not answered any of my inquiries.]
Order of Nine Angles
PO Box 235
Shrewsbury,
Shropshire
England UK
[Lupo note:Several pricey books, a "sinister" tarot deck, and a journal.
The ONA was gracious enough to send me a microfilm containing many of
their major works; I found them very impressive. This address may not
be as current as the one mentioned previously.]
_Dark Lily_ "The Reality of the Left Hand Path"
BCM Box 3404
London WC1N 3XX UK
[Well respected journal of British LHP]