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Archive-name: religions/satanism/cos
Posting-Frequency: monthly and whenever I see the need Last-modified: 2004/03/23 Version: 2.3 URL: http://www.churchofsatan.com/ Copyright: (c)2001 Church of Satan, P.O. Box 499, Radio City Station, New York, NY 10101-0499 USA See reader questions & answers on this topic! - Help others by sharing your knowledge
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Authors who contributed to this document:
(in alphabetic order)
Blanche Barton
Peter H. Gilmore
Peggy Nadramia
Matt G. Paradise
Herbert Paulis
Special thanks for correction and improvement suggestions:
Phil Marfuta
André Schlesinger
Lestat Ventrue
CONTENTS:
1. Introduction and Terminology
1.1. What is the purpose of this document?
1.2. What is a FAQ?
1.3. Common Abbreviations and Terms
2. What is the Church of Satan?
3. Anton Szandor LaVey
3.1. The man and his life
3.2. LaVey's death
3.3. The Church of Satan after LaVey
3.4. Myths and truths
3.5. Isn't Anton LaVey merely ripping off Nietzsche?
4. Satanism as seen by the Church of Satan
4.1. The philosophies
4.2. The Nine Satanic Statements
4.3. The Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth
4.4. The Nine Satanic Sins
4.5. What is the Satanic Bunco Sheet?
4.6. To apply the name of Satan to this church implies a connection
to the Bible. What is the stance of the CoS on these popular
tales and predictions? Who is Christ to the CoS?
4.7. As a representative for Satanism, you do interviews and lectures.
Isn't this preaching? And, doesn't this violate your rule of not
giving your opinions unless asked?
5. Membership in the Church of Satan
5.1. How can I become a member of the Church of Satan?
What if I do not live in the US?
5.2. What happens if I change my mind and want to get out of all this
again?
5.3. I am not 18 years old yet. Can I still become a member?
5.4. The Church of Satan charges application fees for membership and
further involvement and accepts money from people. Sounds like
your garden-variety tent-show evangelist scam.
5.5. I really want to join the Church of Satan... I mean, A LOT! I
want to be a Priest and be one of you. I want magical powers and
a direct phone-line to Satan.
5.6. Do you find most of the membership of the CoS to be 'Xtian
refugees' or do they come from all sorts of backgrounds?
6. Satanic Literature
6.1. Books by and about Anton Szandor LaVey and the Church of Satan
6.1.1. Where can I get a copy of _The Satanic Bible_?
6.1.2. Where can I get an electronic copy of _The Satanic Bible_?
6.1.3. How to obtain these books from the US?
6.1.4. How to obtain these books from outside the US?
6.2. Satanic Magazines and Publications
6.2.1. The Cloven Hoof
6.2.2. The Black Flame
6.2.3. Not Like Most
6.2.4. The Raven
6.2.5. Others
6.3. A little Satanically-inspired book suggestion
6.3.1 Non-Fiction
6.3.2 Fiction
7. Satanic Music and Videos
7.1. Music by Anton Szandor LaVey
7.2. Other Music of Satanic value
7.3. Videos
8. The Church of Satan on the Internet
9. Artifacts and where to look for them
9.1. Artifacts
9.2. Societies
9.3. Shops
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1. Introduction and Terminology
1.1. What is the purpose of this document?
Many misunderstandings, false rumors and plain lies about the
Church of Satan have been spread online, especially in the
alt.satanism forum on Usenet and on several web pages, as well as
on many hours of television shows and in numerous newspaper articles.
This document is intended to correct these pieces of misinformation
and to give accurate information, authenticated by the Church of Satan
and signed electronically. It is not meant as a form of proselytizing,
a practice which is frowned upon by the Church of Satan.
See also topic 4.7.
1.2. What is a FAQ?
"FAQ" is an acronym for "Frequently Answered Questions" or
"Frequently Asked Questions", for what it's worth. These are
documents on various topics, forming a veritable library of free
information, usually put together by voluntary enthusiasts in order
to answer certain questions that constantly come up in some
newsgroups (hence the name). They are periodically posted to their
home newsgroups and (usually) to news.answers, and archived at
various places. This FAQ isn't really a proper list of frequently
asked questions and their answers; it's more of a fact-file or an
introductory brochure than a traditional Usenet FAQ, although some
Q&As are included and hopefully more will be added in future. In
some cases an author is noted for a portion of this FAQ. In other
cases the text is compiled from several authors' contributions.
Intermediate forms occur.
The language in these articles is without doubt colored by the fact
that some contributors have other mother tongues than English - and
so it will remain. Nevertheless proposals for more idiomatic
wordings are always cordially welcomed.
1.3. Common Abbreviations and Terms
To save typing during discussions and in electronic mail, several
abbreviations have been generally adopted and are listed here for
the convenience of the reader.
CoS, C/S Church of Satan
TSB _The Satanic Bible_
TSR _The Satanic Rituals_
TSW _The Satanic Witch_
DN _The Devil's Notebook_
ASL Anton Szandor LaVey
Statements The Nine Satanic Statements
Sins The Nine Satanic Sins
RotE The Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth
LHP Left Hand Path
Some Satanists find themselves discussing Christianity frequently.
In order to cut down on keystrokes many type "Xtian" and "Xtianity"
rather than the longer versions. A few 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, as the first letter of Christ in
Greek is Chi which looks like the Roman character "X".
2. What is the Church of Satan?
We were established in 1966 C.E. by Anton Szandor LaVey who declared
the Year One, thus opening the floodgates to a revolution designed
to smash the hypocrisy and unreason which has reigned for the past
2000 years. We have, since 1966, stood as the most formidable threat
to those who would halt progress in the name of spirituality. We are
explorers on the untrodden paths of science, human motivation and
mystery -- all that is most _truly_ occult.
Those who proudly carry our cards identifying themselves as members
have the strength and dedication to implement the tools of Satan,
the imagination to confound and confuse, the wisdom to recognize
the Unseen in our society, and the passions of a classical Romantic
soul.
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 even by geographical proximity.
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 may 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 often 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.
3. Anton Szandor LaVey
3.1. The man and his life
(This is an excerpt from Blanche Barton's book, _The Church of
Satan_. For an even more detailed and fascinating LaVey biography,
read _The Secret Life of a Satanist_, also by Blanche Barton. See
the books section of this FAQ for details.)
Anton Szandor LaVey was born in gangland-era Chicago on April 11,
1930; but his parents moved to California soon after his birth.
After a restless youth, where he had his first supernatural
experiences, he dropped out of high school at the age of 16,
deciding to become second oboist for the San Francisco Ballet
Orchestra. Later, he decided the circus was a good place for an
energetic young man with his talents, and so he signed on with the
Clyde Beatty Circus.
At 17, LaVey was taming eight Nubian Lions and four Bengal tigers
alone in the big cage and developed a close relation with and an
affection for the big cats. But his musical talents were not
wasted, either, and he played the calliope regularly, accompanying
circus greats from the Flying Wallendas to Hugo Zachinni.
LaVey extended his knowledge of the outdoor entertainment industry
by joining the carnival and amusement park circuit, working some of
the biggest traveling shows on the Pacific Coast. Playing calliope,
Wurlitzer band organ, or Hammond along every midway, LaVey also
worked with famed freaks in the "Ten-in-One." He was in his element
among the loners, drifters and marginal types who have always been
attracted to the cynical carnival atmosphere. It was here LaVey
learned how much people will pay to be fooled -- how desperately
they want to escape their own dull lives.
After a short career as a photographer for the SFPD and an
investigator in occult affairs, LaVey completely devoted himself to
exploring the occult and magic. He founded the "Magic Circle" and
held lectures on various magical and outré subjects. Finally, on
Walpurgisnacht 1966, his life work came to a significiant culmination
when he founded the Church of Satan, proclaiming the Satanic Year I.
3.2. LaVey's death
As many (false) rumors and even more lies have been spread over
the net (and they still are), here is a short factual account of
Dr. LaVey's death.
Having a long-standing valvular problem associated with rheumatic
heart disease, Anton LaVey had some kind of massive cardiac
arrhythmia after several internal bleedings in late summer of 1997
C.E. had been treated in hospital. He died on October the 29th, in
St. Mary's Hospital, a Catholic hospital associated with the
University of San Francisco. He was brought to St. Mary's because
it was the closest facility to him; he had never been treated
there before. He made no "death bed" recantations of his philosophy.
Although there has been some confusion with his funeral records,
some listed Halloween as his death date, rumors that his death has
been caused deliberately by a Xtian nurse are grossly false. He was
being given a Satanic funeral, attended only by his closest
relatives and was cremated afterwards, as per his wishes.
3.3. The Church of Satan after LaVey
Blanche Barton, Anton LaVey's long-time companion and mother of his
son Satan Xerxes Carnacki LaVey, acted after his death at first alone
as High Priestess of the Church of Satan. In May 2001 she ordained
Magister Peter H. Gilmore as new High Priest and his wife Magistra
Peggy Nadramia as Magistra Templi Rex to assist her in the leadership
of the organization. Read a short excerpt from the High Priestess'
Walpurgisnacht XXXVI communiqué for this announcement:
"... I hereby appoint Magister Peter H. Gilmore to the position of
High Priest of the Church of Satan, and Magistra Peggy Nadramia to
the position of Grand Mistress of the Temple - Magistra Templi Rex,
as outlined in our articles of incorporation. I will retain the
position of High Priestess, but the Central Administrative Offices
will move from the West Coast to the East Coast, and most membership
issues will be handled through the Church of Satan's New York Contact
address (P.O. Box 499, Radio City Station, New York, NY 10101-0499),
as will approval and coordination of present and future Grotto
Masters. ...
This fine-tuning is in keeping with Dr. LaVey's goals for fortifying
and expanding the Church of Satan at the proper time, and I know these
changes will strengthen the organization as a whole. Since Dr. LaVey's
passing, we have grown significantly in size and scope. It is time for
us to broaden our administrative base in order to better coordinate
our worldwide efforts. It will ensure that the right people get the
proper feedback and attention, and that orders and correspondence are
handled more quickly. ..."
(You can find the full text in the news section of the Church of Satan
web site.)
Finally, on Walpurgisnacht 2002, the transition was completed when
Blanche Barton appointed Peggy Nadramia as the new High Priestess of
the Church of Satan, taking herself the title of Magistra Templi Rex.
In her own words: "Together, High Priest Gilmore and High Priestess
Nadramia have generated potent magical energy between them as husband
and wife, and will now be able to apply that same balance, cooperation
and vitality to the Church of Satan."
Note that the new mailing address for membership registration and
correspondences, as of 30 April, Walpurgisnacht, XXXVI A.S., is our
New York City office:
Church of Satan,
New York Contact,
P.O. Box 499, Radio City Station,
New York, NY 10101-0499, USA
Memberships registrations and correspondences sent to other prior
Church of Satan addresses (san Francisco, San Diego) will be processed
however there may be a delay.
3.4. Myths and truths
Zeena LaVey, his younger daughter, chose to disown her father in
1989 and had no more contact with him nor the Church of Satan since.
After his death, she has gone on TV shows, claiming that she has proven
herself to be the more competent Satanic magician as her father died
due to a curse she placed upon him. Of course, no such curse was
mentioned prior to his death. She has contacted reporters to claim
among other things, that her father was a wife-beater (no evidence
has been provided to back up this assertion), and that he never had a
relationship with Jayne Mansfield (despite the fact that several photos
prove the contrary, see _The Secret Life of a Satanist_) or any
involvement with the film _Rosemary's Baby_ (LaVey was known to have
helped promote the San Francisco premiere and the publicity concerning
the Church of Satan clearly influenced Ira Levin, author of the novel).
She has cursed herself to a miserable fate.
Karla LaVey, his older daughter, chose not to be affiliated with the
Church of Satan.
People often wondered about the "Doctor" title seen once in awhile
in connection with LaVey's name. Formally speaking, Anton
LaVey did not hold a Ph.D. or anything similar. But he never said
that he did earn such a degree. It was and still is the practice that
his friends and people who hold him up in great respect called and
continue to call him "Doc" or "Dr. LaVey" as a kind of honorary title
(_The Secret Life of a Satanist_, p.223). It is only natural that
there were and will always be people who run him down because of
this. So what? If they are not good enough to get an academic
degree for themselves at some university and not famous enough to
get an honorary title, chalk it up to envy and jealousy.
3.5. Isn't Anton LaVey merely ripping off Nietzsche?
Extremely limited (and limiting) thinking, indeed. When LaVey
refers to an idea, concept, or quote derived or taken from someone
else, he often cites the author, either in the paragraph or in the
indices of his books. If anything LaVey writes seems or is similar
to past concepts, oftentimes, this material is augmented with modern
circumstances, his own thoughts, and may be synthesized from past
thinkers. Seeing that Satanism is a work in progress, a working blend
of science and philosophy, we are fully justified in choosing the
valid concepts of old, working with them in our new context and
taking them into the future. (If we didn't, who else would?) It is
the same process used by scientists, doctors, psychologists, and many
other professionals. Nothing would get done if individuals merely went
along with established thought and never added to it. It's evolution,
pure and simple.
4. Satanism as seen by the Church of Satan
4.1. Our philosophies
If you have not already done so, we strongly suggest you purchase
_The Satanic Bible_, and study it. It is a diabolical book, the
basis for our philosophy. Satanism is not for everyone, but if it
is for you, we welcome you. We are not a fan club, a pen-pal
society, or a lonely hearts group. We are a group of dynamic
individuals who stand forth as the ultimate underground alternative
-- the Alien Elite. We realize what we have, what we are, and what
we shall become. Our scope is unlimited, and the extent of your
involvement is based upon your own potential.
In recent years, we've wasted far too much time explaining that
Satanism has nothing to do with kidnapping, drug abuse, child
molestation, animal or child sacrifice, or any number of other acts
which idiots, hysterics or opportunists would like to blame on us.
Satanism is a life-loving, rational philosophy that millions
of people adhere to. Now we're ready for something that goes quite
a few steps beyond just explaining our principles. Every
revisionist movement needs a set of goals/guidelines that are
clear, concrete, and that will effect significant changes.
The following Five-Point Program reflects attitudes which allow
others to decide whether they wish to align themselves with
Satanism or not. Each is necessary for Satanic change to take
place. When asked what we're "doing", here's the answer:
1) STRATIFICATION -- The point on which all the others ultimately
rest. There can be no more myth of "equality" for all--it only
translates to "mediocrity" and supports the weak at the expense of
the strong. Water must be allowed to seek its own level without
interference from apologists for incompetence. No one should be
protected from the effects of his own stupidity.
2) STRICT TAXATION OF ALL CHURCHES -- If churches were taxed for
all their income and property, they'd crumble overnight of their
own obsolescence, and the National Debt would be wiped out as
quickly. The productive, the creative, the resourceful should be
subsidized. So long as the useless and incompetent are getting
paid, they should be heavily taxed.
3) NO TOLERANCE FOR RELIGIOUS BELIEFS SECULARIZED AND INCORPORATED
INTO LAW AND ORDER ISSUES -- to re-establish "Lex Talionis" would
require a complete overturning of the present in-justice system
based on Judeo-Christian ideals, where the victim/defender has been
made the criminal. Amnesty should be considered for anyone in
prison because of his alleged "influence" upon the actual
perpetrator of the crime. Everyone is influenced in what he or she
does. Scapegoating has become a way of life, a means of survival
for the unfit. As an extension of the Judeo-Christian cop-out of
blaming the Devil for everything, criminals can gain leniency, even
praise, by placing the blame on a convenient villain. Following the
Satanic creed of "Responsibility to the responsible," in a Satanic
society, everyone must experience the consequences of his own
actions -- for good or ill.
4) DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF ARTIFICIAL HUMAN COMPANIONS -- The
forbidden industry. An economic "godsend" which will allow everyone
"power" over someone else. Polite, sophisticated, technologically
feasible slavery. And the most profitable industry since TV and the
computer.
5) THE OPPORTUNITY FOR ANYONE TO LIVE WITHIN A TOTAL ENVIRONMENT OF
HIS OR HER CHOICE, WITH MANDATORY ADHERENCE TO THE AESTHETIC AND
BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS OF SAME -- Privately owned, operated and
controlled environments as an alternative to homogenized and
polyglot ones. The freedom to insularize oneself within a social
milieu of personal well-being. An opportunity to feel, see, and
hear that which is most aesthetically pleasing, without
interference from those who would pollute or detract from that
option.
4.2. The Nine Satanic Statements
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,
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.
4.3. The Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth
1. Do not give opinions or advice unless you are asked.
2. Do not tell your troubles to others unless you are sure they
want to hear them.
3. When in another's lair, show him respect or else do not go
there.
4. If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat him cruelly and
without mercy.
5. Do not make sexual advances unless you are given the mating
signal.
6. Do not take that which does not belong to you unless it is a
burden to the other person and he cries out to be relieved.
7. Acknowledge the power of magic if you have employed it
successfully to obtain your desires. If you deny the power of
magic after having called upon it with success, you will lose
all you have obtained.
8. Do not complain about anything to which you need not subject
yourself.
9. Do not harm little children.
10. Do not kill non-human animals unless you are attacked or for
your food.
11. When walking in open territory, bother no one. If someone
bothers you, ask him to stop. If he does not stop, destroy him.
4.4. The Nine Satanic Sins
1. Stupidity -- The top of the list for Satanic Sins. The Cardinal
Sin of Satanism. It's too bad that stupidity isn't painful.
Ignorance is one thing, but our society thrives increasingly on
stupidity. It depends on people going along with whatever they
are told. The media promotes a cultivated stupidity as a posture
that is not only acceptable but laudable. Satanists must learn
to see through the tricks and cannot afford to be stupid.
2. Pretentiousness -- Empty posturing can be most irritating and
isn't applying the cardinal rules of Lesser Magic. On equal
footing with stupidity for what keeps the money in circulation
these days. Everyone's made to feel like a big shot, whether
they can come up with the goods or not.
3. Solipsism -- Can be very dangerous for Satanists. Projecting
your reactions, responses and sensibilities onto someone who is
probably far less attuned than you are. It is the mistake of
expecting people to give you the same consideration, courtesy
and respect that you naturally give them. They won't. Instead,
Satanists must strive to apply the dictum of "Do unto others as
they do unto you." It's work for most of us and requires
constant vigilance lest you slip into a comfortable illusion of
everyone being like you. As has been said, certain utopias would
be ideal in a nation of philosophers, but unfortunately (or
perhaps fortunately, from a Machiavellian standpoint) we are far
from that point.
4. Self-deceit -- It's in the Nine Satanic Statements but deserves
to be repeated here. Another cardinal sin. We must not pay
homage to any of the sacred cows presented to us, including the
roles we are expected to play ourselves. The only time
self-deceit should be entered into is when it's fun, and with
awareness. But then, it's not self-deceit!
5. Herd Conformity -- That's obvious from a Satanic stance. It's
all right to conform to a person's wishes, if it ultimately
benefits you. But only fools follow along with the herd, letting
an impersonal entity dictate to you. The key is to choose a
master wisely instead of being enslaved by the whims of the
many.
6. Lack of Perspective -- Again, this one can lead to a lot of pain
for a Satanist. You must never lose sight of who and what you
are, and what a threat you can be, by your very existence. We
are making history right now, every day. Always keep the wider
historical and social picture in mind. That is an important key
to both Lesser and Greater Magic. See the patterns and fit
things together as you want the pieces to fall into place. Do
not be swayed by herd constraints -- know that you are working
on another level entirely from the rest of the world.
7. Forgetfulness of Past Orthodoxies -- Be aware that this is one
of the keys to brainwashing people into accepting something
"new" and "different," when in reality it's something that was
once widely accepted but is now presented in a new package. We
are expected to rave about the genius of the "creator" and
forget the original. This makes for a disposable society.
8. Counterproductive Pride -- That first word is important. Pride
is great up to the point you begin to throw out the baby with
the bath-water. The rule of Satanism is: if it works for you,
great. When it stops working for you, when you've painted
yourself into a corner and the only way out is to say, "I'm
sorry, I made a mistake, I wish we could compromise somehow,"
then do it.
9. Lack of Aesthetics -- This is the physical application of the
Balance Factor. Aesthetics is important in Lesser Magic and
should be cultivated. It is obvious that no one can collect any
money off classical standards of beauty and form most of the
time so they are discouraged in a consumer society, but "an eye"
for beauty, for balance, is an essential Satanic tool and must
be applied for greatest magical effectiveness. It's not what's
supposed to be pleasing -- it's what is. Aesthetics is a
personal thing, reflective of one's own nature, but there are
universally pleasing and harmonious configurations that should
not be denied.
4.5. What is the Satanic Bunco Sheet?
Because Anton LaVey has made Satanism so popular, it appears that
everyone wants to jump on the bandwagon. If you're new to the Realm
of Darkness suddenly feeling the fires of Satan burning within you,
be warned: there are unethical individuals out there who will attempt
to prey upon you, claiming they can teach you how to become a Great
Black Magician overnight, offering "instant priesthoods" in bogus
"Satanic Churches," who will promise instructional fellowship and
activities with "True Masters", who may claim unverifiable links
with the Church of Satan or other such lineage. Save your money.
The Satanic Bunco Sheet is a tip sheet to recognize pseudo- and
anti-Satanic groups that have sprouted up since LaVey started the
original Church of Satan.
Some places where you can find and read the complete Satanic Bunco
Sheet:
http://www.churchofsatan.com/
http://www.purgingtalon.com/nlm/bunco.htm
http://www.HerbertsDarkCorner.com/
4.6. To apply the name of Satan to this church implies a connection
to the Bible. What is the stance of the CoS on these popular
tales and predictions? Who is Christ to the CoS?
We take the name Satan in concept only. Any other connection is
thrust upon us by anxious, ignorant, and/or misinformed people. The
archetype itself, by whatever name is appropriate, is far older
than Xtianity or Judaism, and it was these religions that, in order
to gain a foothold in the world, decided to destroy and bastardize
the "pagan gods." Satan has generally been the character who has
challenged sterile thought, encouraged indulgence, rebelled against
slavery, and truly represented human nature and all that the
mundane world offers. By extension, instead of worshipping Satan,
we emulate him. The Xtian bible was probably one of the greatest
pieces of propaganda (with Mein Kampf running a close second) in
world history but, quite frankly, we think that the intelligent
members of a scientifically, philosophically, and technologically
advanced civilization should logically cease to have a need for
such outmoded parables and slave ethics. But, seeing as insecurity
never goes out of style, those in need seek their baby-sitters in
whatever avenue is acceptable; in LaVey's words, a "privileged lie."
Many Satanists also view the Xtian bible as an example of mankind's
hypocrisy, incompetence, and spinelessness. Jesus Christ is the
paradigm for these qualities, and is thus reviled by Satanists.
How can anyone with human insight and reasonable logic skills
accept the phrase "the meek shall inherit the Earth" without
laughing? History certainly doesn't support this assertion. From my
experience, many people who call themselves Xtians are so merely by
convenience and not so much by a rational decision, if rationality is
possible. It's a truly insecure philosophy that demands its tenets
to be installed in humans from early childhood, because if it was
introduced for the first time to adults, many would raise their
eyebrows in suspicion and disgust. Many Xtians I've met haven't even
read their bible (at least, not critically), but keep the book on
their coffee table to appear "righteous." And, some just skip the
sanguine parts. Many of them really seem to "get off" on their
religion; the self-righteousness feeds their impoverished egos.
4.7. As a representative for Satanism, you do interviews and lectures.
Isn't this preaching? And, doesn't this violate your rule of not
giving your opinions unless asked?
This isn't preaching and it doesn't go against the First
Satanic Rule of the Earth. If you open a magazine, turn on your
radio, or click on your television and see an interview with a
Satanist, you've reached a point where you will either not read or
look at it, or you will. If you choose the latter, you have
consigned yourself to the information and, by your own actions,
have given your non-verbal consent to receive such information
about our religion. If you attend a lecture, you have even more so
welcomed yourself to our "opinions." No one coerced you to attend
or read or watch or listen. Assuming that Satanism can be preached
is to assume that anyone can be a Satanist, which is grossly false.
We say that Satanists are born, so proselytizing to us, unlike other
Religions, would have no point. It would waste our time and we'd
have to care about amassing numbers, which we don't. Quality, not
quantity, is our standard.
5. Membership in the Church of Satan
5.1. How can I become a member of the Church of Satan?
What if I do not live in the US?
We don't solicit memberships; however, if you wish to join us, to
show your support or appreciation, you can become a Registered
Member. Write a letter to P. O. Box 499, Radio City Station,
New York, NY 10101-0499, USA, with a self-addressed stamped
envelope (or include two International Reply Coupons, if you live
outside the US) and ask for our membership information. You can
also download and print the form from many web sites on the WWW.
The Church of Satan accepts members from all over the world.
For a one-time registration fee of one hundred dollars, you will
receive a crimson card declaring you a member of the Church of
Satan. No further dues will be expected. All names and addresses
are held in strict confidence and you are under no obligation as a
Registered Member, unless you choose to present yourself for
further consideration.
You'll also receive a questionnaire. Filling out the questionnaire
indicates your more serious interest in our organization. By
completing and returning it, you will be included in our E-Bulletin
List so you can receive announcements pertinent to your
affiliation.
5.2. What happens if I change my mind and want to get out of all this
again?
There are those who propagate such rumors as "there is no possible
way to get out of a Satanic organization other than death." This
is intended to scare the gullible into thinking they will be held as
members against their will. It is nonsense. All one has to do to end
their association with the Church of Satan is to _write us a letter_
telling us that they want to resign.
No one is expelled unless they do something that is blatantly
against our tenets (which can include criminal behavior). Unless
people let us know in writing that they want to resign, or their
membership is terminated by the administration, we consider
them members.
5.3. I am not 18 years old yet. Can I still become a member?
You may become a member of the Church of Satan at any age, though
further participation in the organization is limited to those who
are eighteen years of age or older. This is not meant as a judgment
of your maturity; we've received letters from 14-year-olds who had
a distinct, mature grasp of Satanism. But we must be realistic
about the world around us. One reason is that we don't want to
become a haven for the kind of sanctimonious perverts that
Christian churches and other "Goodguy Badge" forums (such as Big
Brother/Big Sister, Boy Scouts, etc.) often are. There are a lot of
sick people out there, and we don't want our vital young Satanists
to become victims of twisted adults who are more interested in
contacting young kids than they are in practicing Satanism.
Another reason we restrict activities of minors is because your
parents or other adults in your life may not understand us or
might be hostile toward your exploration of this religion. They
may try to cause trouble for us, perhaps by falsely accusing us
of any number of things, just because they feel threatened. So,
we simply cannot allow anyone under the legal age of consent to
participate in any activities directly sponsored by the Church of
Satan. The _only_ exception to this rule would be with the
_written permission and attendance_ of your parent or legal
guardian. Some of you may be lucky enough to have a very good
relationship with your parents and they may be supportive, even
enthusiastic, about your exploration of the "Dark Side." They may be
willing to go with you to meet a local Grotto Master and decide on
your level of participation at this point in your magical
development. If this is the case, let us know.
5.4. The Church of Satan charges application fees for membership and
further involvement and accepts money from people. Sounds like
your garden-variety tent-show evangelist scam.
First off, you are probably confusing two different terms. The
Church of Satan is an organization. Satanism is a religion. Since
we are one of the few (if not the ONLY) religions whose
organized body REJECTS the tax-exempt status other religions cling
to, the CoS accepts money to keep it moving, and we pay BACK into
the economic system. ("Responsibility to the responsible.") Also,
there seem to be a couple of presuppositions hiding under this
statement. The first is that we should feel "bad" or "humble" about
money. Why? We are Satanists. Most of us appreciate success in one
form or another and, in business, we know that money often enough
helps this along. We lay our cards on the table and have no problem
with it. If a credible Satanist pays into the CoS, he or she does
this in support, and does it knowingly because he or she is wise,
like all good Satanists are. If your average ignoramus throws money
at the CoS, the organization is happy to take that, too. But, it is
the idiot, not the CoS, who should be held responsible because,
quite frankly, we didn't rush up to his house with Uzis, drag him
to the ATM, and make him empty out his account for us. You don't
even have to be a member of the CoS to be a Satanist, so no money
is required, unlike that required by others for tithes, collection
plates, and holy corn meal. (The monetary fee, by extension, also
keeps out most of the trend chasers, the occultniks, and the
terrorists. We don't want them and we won't put up with them.) The
second presupposition lies in the penchant for equating us with
the model of religion which Xtianity ostensibly portrays. It has
been adequately stated and PROVEN that Satanism is not inverse
Xtianity. It's an old point. Tell the spiritual churches to pay
THEIR taxes and see what they say. The differences are enormous.
5.5. I really want to join the Church of Satan... I mean, A LOT! I
want to be a Priest and be one of you. I want magical powers and
a direct phone-line to Satan.
Go away. Reading _TSB_ should make it clear why we do not welcome
persons with this attitude.
5.6. Do you find most of the membership of the CoS to be 'Xtian
refugees' or do they come from all sorts of backgrounds?
Surely, I couldn't speak for all Satanists, but I would assume that
many, particularly older Satanists who grew up in an era when
Xtianity was taken a bit more seriously, had some sort of Xtian
indoctrination in their childhoods. Oftentimes, teens will approach
Satanism as a reaction to their growing disdain for Xtianity, and I
think that's an honest and healthy step, speaking from experience.
However, once a Satanist (a true Satanist, and not some drugged-out
devil-worshipping metalhead with a penchant for feline slaughter)
grows up a bit and experiences some of the outside world, Satanism
becomes a lot more than a game of shock-the-sheep and the Satanist
applies himself/herself to attain goals and engage in meaningful
pursuits. I wouldn't use the phrase "Xtian refugees" to describe
the situation mentioned above, simply because there is an implied
idea of victimization riding shotgun with it, and victim is a label
no Satanist cares to wear - mainly because it's unproductive as
well as being antithetical to pure Satanic philosophy.
6. Satanic Literature
6.1. Books by and about Anton Szandor LaVey and the Church of Satan
THE SATANIC BIBLE and THE SATANIC RITUALS
-- by Anton Szandor LaVey.
Published in paperback by AVON BOOKS; available in all major
bookstores, in the Occult or New Age sections.
THE SATANIC WITCH and THE DEVIL'S NOTEBOOK
-- by Anton Szandor LaVey.
Published by Feral House, available in all major bookstores. If
needed, bookseller can order, or copies are available from the
publisher:
FERAL HOUSE, 2554 Lincoln Blvd. #1059, Venice, CA 90291, USA.
Send SASE for info.
SATAN SPEAKS
-- by Anton Szandor LaVey
Dr. LaVey's last (and final) book, released
1998 by FERAL HOUSE (address above).
THE SECRET LIFE OF A SATANIST
-- by Blanche Barton.
The authorized biography of Anton LaVey, published by FERAL HOUSE.
In the "Biography" section of bookstores (paperback or hardcover),
or send SASE to FERAL HOUSE (address above) for info.
THE CHURCH OF SATAN
-- by Blanche Barton.
Detailed history of the Church, with photos, instructions on
forming Grottos or groups, lists of Satanic films, music, and
books. Available in stores, or order from:
HELL'S KITCHEN PRODUCTIONS,
P. O. Box 499, Radio City Station, New York, NY 10101-0499.
Send SASE or 2 IRC for information.
SATAN WANTS YOU
-- by Arthur Lyons.
Published in 1988 by MYSTERIOUS PRESS (paperback and hardcover
editions). Buy or order in stores.
6.1.1. Where can I get a copy of _The Satanic Bible_?
_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 trying
one of the following methods:
If your local book store does not carry _The Satanic Bible_ or any
other books mentioned here (or, what would be the correct truth in
most cases, does not _want_ to hold them in stock), you can mail
order them from most of the addresses mentioned here without
problems. (See also the list at the end of this FAQ file.)
They also will be glad to serve inquiries from other countries,
although you may find the air mail charges rather steep. In Europe,
you might also try PENTAGRAM, P. O. Box 66, Dewsbury WF12 0XY, UK.
They carry most of the books mentioned here.
If you have access to the Internet, you could also place an on-line
order with one of those companies:
http://plaza.satannet.net/
http://www.psinet.co.uk/pentagram/index.html
http://www.feralhouse.com/
http://www.amazon.com/
A great place for book searches is also
http://www.abebooks.com/
and finally you might find a bargain or a rare artifact at
http://www.eBay.com/
6.1.2. Where can I get an electronic copy of _The Satanic Bible_?
We do not support any electronic transmission of this text as
such is a violation of copyright laws.
6.2. Satanic Magazines and Publications
6.2.1. The Cloven Hoof
The official _Bulletin_ of the Church of Satan. Current news,
articles, poetry, reviews, and analyses pertaining to all subjects
Satanic. Includes the latest LaVeyan releases and rip-offs. An
interactive communiqué, disseminating information received from our
vigilant Satanic Forces around the world! Address submissions and
subscription requests to:
Blanche Barton, The Cloven Hoof, PMB #365, P.O.Box 390009
San Diego CA 92149-0009, USA. $35 per year, Sample copy $5
(U.S. funds). Make U.S. checks or money order to "Blanche
Barton". Foreign orders add $8.00 for subscription or $2.00
for single issue.
6.2.2. The Black Flame
This _magazine_ is the international forum of the Church of Satan.
Published once per year, this comprehensive magazine will inform
you about trends in Satanic happenings and thought. Filled with
articles, reviews, poetry, and artwork of vital interest to all
Satanists. Single copy is $7.00 ($9.00 outside U.S.), two-issue
subscription is $14.00 ($18.00 outside U.S.). Send U.S. funds or
money order to: HELL'S KITCHEN PRODUCTIONS. (See address above).
6.2.3. Not Like Most
A Satanic publication adhering to the philosophies set forth by
Anton Szandor LaVey, The Church of Satan and directly affiliated
publications. Its primary audience is comprised of Satanists,
although it is also written for non-Xtian and anti-Xtian readers.
_Not Like Most_ is published once per year and is available by
mail order for $4.00 ($5.00 outside the continental United States.)
Payment is to be made either by cash or a United States postal
money order filled out in the publisher's name, not the publishing
company. NO CHECKS.
Publisher: Rev. Matt G. Paradise, Priest - Church of Satan
Not Like Most, P. O. Box 88131, Burlington, Vermont 05402, USA
6.2.4. The Raven
"The lighter side of the dark." Empower a vitally important Satanic
attribute: your sense of humor! Enjoy our insightful and humorous
take on life, food and wine, religion, culture, current events,
etc. Issued quarterly (Equinoxes and Solstices). $10.00 per
year($15.00 outside US), payable to:
N.B. Smith, Box 163, Stratford CT 06497-0163 USA
6.2.5. Others
The Black Pun-kin
Canada's Satanic Forum
$7.00 US American residents, $7.00 CDN Canadian residents,
$10.00 US Overseas
All checks and money orders payable to Robert A. Lang
The Black Pun-kin, P. O. Box 32017, 1386 Richmond R.d.,
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2B 1A1
6.3. A little Satanically-inspired book suggestion
Food for discussion groups or diabolical rumination. Most of these
have nothing to do with Satanism per se, but the keen reader will
be able to glean much from them, nevertheless. These works are just
a small selection from Anton LaVey's bookshelves, but it should
give you the idea and whet the appetite.
Please note that this is just an arbitrarily shortened and biased
(by the FAQ maintainer) version of the much longer, albeit still
only hinting, list on books, music, and films which is given in
the appendix of Blanche Barton's book, _The Church of Satan_.
6.3.1 Non-Fiction
Carl Jung: _Man and His Symbols_
Friedrich Nietzsche: esp. _Beyond Good and Evil_, _The Anti-Christ_
and _Twilight of the Gods_
_The Johnson, Smith and Company Catalogue: Surprising Novelties,
Puzzles, Tricks, Jokegoods. Useful Articles, etc._
Ambrose Bierce: _The Devil's Dictionary_
H.L. Mencken: esp. _The American Language_
Jerry Mander: _Four Arguments for the Elimination of Television_
6.3.2 Fiction
Charles Finney: _Circus of Dr. Lao_
Fyodor Dostoevsky: _Notes from Underground_
H.G. Wells: esp. _The Island of Dr. Moreau_
Jules Verne: _20,000 Leagues Under the Sea_
Oscar Wilde: _The Picture of Dorian Gray_
Jack London: esp. _The Sea-Wolf_, and books of lycanthropic
transformation
Fred Saberhagen: _The Dracula Tape_
Macabre stories and poetry of _Weird tales_ and Arkham House
writers Lovecraft, Robert E. Howard, Frank Belknap, August Derleth,
et al.
7. Satanic Music and Videos
7.1. Music by Anton Szandor LaVey
See the Sources page at www.churchofsatan.com:
STRANGE MUSIC (10"),
SATAN TAKES A HOLIDAY (CD), and
THE SATANIC MASS (CD)--which also includes THE HYMN OF THE SATANIC
EMPIRE, also known as "Battle Hymn of the Apocalypse", written and
performed by Anton LaVey).
7.2. Other Music of Satanic value
Look out for Franz List (Mephisto Waltz, Faust Symphony), Modest
Mussorgsky (Night on Bald Mountain), Richard Wagner, Richard
Strauss (Thus Spoke Zarathustra), Frederic Chopin, Igor
Stravinsky, and many more.
7.3. Videos
SPEAK OF THE DEVIL: THE CANNON OF ANTON LAVEY
-- Video interview by Nick Bougas.
LaVey intersperses musical performances with his unique and
penetrating commentary, ranging from American pop music to World
Wars to Whoopie Cushions!
DEATHSCENES
-- with on-camera introduction and narration by Anton LaVey.
Extremely graphic morgue shots and crime scene photos. Not for the
faint of heart!
DEATHSCENES 2 and DEATHSCENES 3
-- Similar material, but with soundtracks by Peter Gilmore.
For information about all video selections above, write to:
FERAL HOUSE, 2554 Lincoln Blvd. #1059, Venice, CA 90291, USA.
Please include a SASE or IRC.
SATANIS, THE DEVIL'S MASS
-- a 1968 documentary film about the Church of Satan.
A fascinating documentation about the early days of the Church of
Satan, giving many philosophical insights and witness to magical
rituals. This jewel has long been lost, but recently it turned up
again.
Send SASE or IRC to:
Strength Through Joy Prod.,
P. O. Box 82435, Portland, OR 97282, USA
8. The Church of Satan on the Internet
Our online representative is High Priestess Peggy Nadramia:
HPNadramia@churchofsatan.com
http://www.churchofsatan.com/
The official web site of the Church of Satan
Some selected web sites where you may also find information from
and about the Church of Satan and Anton LaVey provided by our
affiliates. Use them as starting points for your own research.
Caveat Emptor!
http://www.purgingtalon.com/
Purging Talon Publishing Headquarters
http://www.personalsatan.com/
The current incarnation of the Satanic Network
http://www.HerbertsDarkCorner.com/
Herbert's Dark Corner of the Web
9. Artifacts and where to look for them
9.1. Artifacts
THE SATANIC BIBLE and THE SATANIC RITUALS were published briefly in
hardback editions in the early 1970's by UNIVERSITY BOOKS. They
turn up very rarely in stacks of used books. Anyone looking for
these should probably use a book search service.
THE DEVIL'S AVENGER, a 1974 paperback biography of Anton LaVey, is
long out of print. Rare copies sometimes turn up through book
search services, however.
THE SATANIC MASS (an LP) was the first recording of authentic
Satanic rituals, made in 1968. It has been re-released on CD by
Amarillo Records (address above). A rendition by Anton LaVey of his
HYMN OF THE SATANIC EMPIRE has been added, making this album a real
treasure!
THE COMPLEAT WITCH (which originally had U.S. hardcover and
paperback editions as well as an Italian hardcover edition) has
been re-released as THE SATANIC WITCH.
9.2. Societies
THE LADY O SOCIETY,
BCM 3406, London, WC1N 3XX England
(The society for submissive ladies.)
TEMPLE OF THE VAMPIRE,
P. O. Box 3582, Lacy, WA 98509
http://temple.home.netcom.com/
(The only organization for those who share a vampire aesthetic.)
9.3. Shops
(Please send SASE or IRC for ordering info.)
AzureGreen/Abyss,
PO Box 48-WEB, Middlefield, MA 01243-0048, USA
http://www.azuregreen.com/
DESIGN TOSCANO, INC.,
17 East Campbell Street, Arlington Heights, IL 60005, USA
(Gargoyles, etc.)
EDMUND SCIENTIFIC,
60 Pearce Ave., Tonawanda, NY 14150, USA
http://www.scientificsonline.com/
HELL'S KITCHEN PRODUCTIONS,
P. O. Box 499, Radio City Station, New York, NY 10101-0499, USA
INDIO PRODUCTS,
236 West Manchester, Los Angeles, CA 90003, USA
http://www.indioproducts.com/
JOHNSON SMITH COMPANY,
4514 19th Street Court East,
P. O. Box 25500, Bradenton, FL 34206-5500, USA
http://www.johnsonsmith.com/
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A SATANIST ON WHY EVERYTHING YOU THINK YOU KNOW ABOUT HIS RELIGION IS WRONG
Church of Satan reverend Ashley S Palmer explains why he has no interest in worshipping the devil...
Kashmira Gander
Friday 06 November 2020 13:04
1
Comments
[This article was first published in 2017]
Picture a Satanist, and you might imagine someone dressed in a black cloak and mask engaging in bizarre violent rituals. At some point in this vision, Satan might even burst through the floor in a flurry of fire and bring an end to the world.
All in all, a Satanist is not the sort of person you'll be calling up to have dinner with your mum anytime soon. But those are the sorts of stereotypes that Ashley S. Palmer, a reverend of the Church of Satan, wants to debunk.
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How the Satanic Temple is turning religion upside down
Satanists may not sound like the friendliest types, but the 33-year-old who lives on the south-east coast of England with his wife and baby daughter is happy to explain why his religion is misunderstood. It has nothing to do with devil worship, he stresses.
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Inspired by
The religion, founded just over 50 years ago by US author and musician Anton Szandor LaVey has much more to do with atheism and libertarian ideals of the freedom to indulge, muddled together with a dash of Machiavellian pragmatism.
Palmer spoke to The Independent about how Satanism affects his daily life, and why a Satanist's favourite holiday is their birthday.
How old are you, where are you based, and what is your role in the Church of Satan?
I am a 33-year-old entrepreneur living on the south-east coast of England with my wife and baby daughter.
My role in the Church of Satan grew organically out of my passion for the philosophy, and pursuits pertinent to the propagation of Satanism as codified by its founder Anton Szandor LaVey. These activities were recognised by High Priest Peter H. Gilmore as authentic and effective additions to our world view, and I was ordained a Priest out-of-the-blue due to these meritorious ef (...)
First off I want to say great blog! I had a quick question that I'd like to ask if you don't mind. I was curious to know how you center yourself and clear your mind prior to writing. I've had a difficult time clearing my thoughts in getting my ideas out there. I do enjoy writing however it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are wasted just trying to figure out how to begin. Any ideas or hints? Cheers!
https://cutt.ly/80xxj9B
Best Regards