Venus Satanas
Anton LaVey, the anti-cultural icon of the 1960’s, wrote the Satanic Bible as a manual and manifesto for his Satanic church. Whether or not you agree with what’s written in this book, it remains a seminal piece of Satanic history, and is worth a read and a place in your Satanic library.
Many Satanists find that the first time they read this book it either resonates with them, or it doesn’t. And this book is how many Satanists discovered Satanism to begin with. So by reading this book, you can have some insight into how the social movement of Satanism began.
The Satanic Bible, far from a devil-worshipping cookbook, is more like a wake-up call for the soul. It’s a mirror held up to societal norms, reflecting back a distorted image that invites us to question everything we thought we knew. It’s a philosophy whispered in a smoky jazz club, urging us to embrace our shadows and dance to the beat of our own drum.
So, is it for everyone? Probably not. Satanism wasn’t made to appeal to everyone. It’s a spicy dish, best savored with an open mind and a strong stomach. But for those who crave a taste of something different, who dare to ask the forbidden questions, The Satanic Bible offers a buffet of ideas that might just leave you feeling…empowered, rebellious, and maybe even a little bit curious about society in general.
Published in 1969, The Satanic Bible stands apart from typical religious texts. It’s a unique blend of essays, personal observations, and symbolic rituals that form the foundation of Anton LaVey’s philosophy, LaVeyan Satanism.
It’s important to note that LaVeyan Satanism is distinct from traditional or spiritual Satanism, which often involves the belief in a literal Satan. Instead, LaVeyan Satanism takes a hard line atheistic approach, using the figure of Satan as a powerful symbol of self-reliance, free will, and embracing our natural instincts. By separating Satan from religious ideas we are able to see him in a new light.
The Satanic Bible is a short read but full of interesting ideas and philosophy. It is divided into four main parts, each named after a demon, and meant to take you on a journey:
• The Book of Satan: This section challenges traditional Judeo-Christian morality, particularly the Ten Commandments, and advocates for an “eye for an eye” approach. By doing this, LaVey is casting aside the norms of christian society. LaVey argues that humans are naturally egocentric and that repressing our instincts only leads to frustration, and that we are essentially animals.
• The Book of Lucifer: This part delves deeper into Satanic philosophy, exploring themes of pride, independence, and self-indulgence. LaVey emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one’s life and pursuing pleasure without harming others. Whoever said Satanists don’t have ethics?
• The Book of Belial: This section focuses on practical applications of Satanic principles, including rituals and magic. However, LaVey emphasizes that these are symbolic tools for self-understanding and empowerment, not supernatural practices. Magic for LaVeyan Satanists is largely symbolic.
• The Book of Leviathan: This final part deals with social Darwinism and the pursuit of power. LaVey encourages Satanists to be assertive and dominant, advocating for a “might is right” mentality. It is a wolf vs sheep mentality and lifestyle that LaVeyans have adopted.
