Part I: Background
Who do you consider to be the founder of this Satanism? What is the history of the Church of Satan?
What do you consider to be key Satanic texts? How and why are these texts relevant? Are these texts still used and in what ways, either
personally or as a community?
Satanism was defined and codified by Anton Szandor LaVey in 1966. Before he founded the CoS there were no people who labeled
themselves as Satanists short of fiction. At least not in any organized way that I'm aware of. It was used more as an epithet against one's
enemies and others who were seen as different. The Jews are a good example of this, having been accused of all sorts of things over the
centuries.
It would be hard to get into the whole history of the CoS in this short interview. That would and has required a whole book. I recommend
getting a hold of "Secret Life of a Satanist" and "The Church of Satan" (out of print, though) by Blanche Barton. Also the official CoS
website (http://www.churchofsatan.com) has a good overview of the history of the organization.
The Key Satanic texts are:
"The Satanic Bible"
"The Satanic Rituals"
"The Satanic Witch"
"The Devil's Notebook"
"Satan Speaks"
all by Anton LaVey.
"The Church of Satan" and "The Secret Life of a Satanist", by Blanche Barton.
"The Satanic Scriptures", by Peter H. Gilmore.
The philosophies and dogma of Satanism are mostly spelled out in The Satanic Bible with other canonical Satanic principles spread
throughout Anton LaVey's other works. Further clarification of the church's stance on a variety of issues are expounded upon in Peter
Gilmore's, "The Satanic Scriptures."
All these texts (except for a few essays in "The Devil's Notebook" and "Satan Speaks" which are the Doktor's personal opinion) are
canonical and are still used since they are the foundation upon which Satanism is based.
What, if any, holidays do you celebrate and why? Why are these holidays significant?
Being a religion that places the self as god, the highest holiday in Satanism is one's own birthday. Other special days celebrated by some
Satanists are Walpurgisnacht (April 30th), Halloween, and the solstices and equinoxes heralding the seasonal changes. Celebration is not
mandatory and Satanists celebrate as they see fit.
Walpurgis is a pagan festival heralding the arrival of spring. There are of course the legends of witches flying to secret gatherings where
they would seek the Devil's favour. The Church of Satan was founded on this night.
Halloween, with its ghoulish imagery, costumes, "treat" indulgence and fun-fear is seen as a time of year when everyone wants to be like
us. But all holidays are ours, even Christmas (Yule). Everyone knows Santa is an anagram of Satan. And he wears red to boot!
Do you attend and services or rituals?
Do you encourage or discourage participation in this religion? I am aware that this is a non-proselytizing religion, however, how do you
treat those who show interest?
I have participated in group ritual. You can see me and a group of other Satanists performing one such ritual in the film, "Inside the Church
of Satan". See www.insidethechurchofsatan.com for more details.
I really don't care what others do so I neither encourage nor discourage participation in this religion. If a person reads the literature and
discovers that he or she is indeed a Satanist, then that person can choose their level of involvement. Everyone is different and many
Satanists choose not to interact with other Satanists. People who show genuine interest are directed to read our literature and the official
website so they can make an informed decision about affiliation. Note that minors cannot become members until they become of age in
their country of residence.
Do you personally identify Satanism as a religion?
Yes. Satanism qualifies as a religion because it includes both philosophy and dogma. It has sometimes been referred to as an "un-religion"
because of how different it is from mainstream religions. I don't have a problem calling myself religious though I don't consider myself
spiritual. Many people see themselves as spiritual but not religious. I see Satanism as the opposite since it is a religion of the flesh rather
than of the spirit. Satanists doubt the existence of the spirit and the afterlife so they concentrate on the here and now.
How do you feel the Church of Satan is perceived by non-members?
I suppose the Church of Satan is somewhat misunderstood. There are still those who believe some of the non-sense that was leveled
against it during a period that has been called the "Satanic Panic". These stories of baby breeding and ritual slaughter were totally debunked
by an FBI report in the early 1990's. Many people still don't realize that Satanism has an atheistic view point and that we don't worship any
deities. There are many CoS representatives engaged in clarifying these misconceptions when they come up.
If, however, you meant Satanist non-members, I think there are some who think that joining the CoS would somehow put a limitation on
their freedom. I see this as a little strange as, being a member myself, it has done nothing of the sort. If anything, being a member and
having since been elevated to the Second Degree has given me a great sense of pride. I joined because I wanted to support the original and
only organization that stands for true Satanism. I saw a group of individuals doing great things for themselves and in so doing, reflected
positively on the church.
But I'm sure most Satanists who aren't members have great respect for the CoS though for reasons of their own choose not to affiliate.
That is just fine.
What roles do women and gender play in the Church of Satan?
Women have a prominent role in the Church of Satan. After the death of our founder in 1997, Blanche Barton took over the reins of the
organization. The current High Priest, Peter H. Gilmore, shares the office with his wife Peggy Nadramia, the High Priestess.
Satanists know that men and women are different and don't see a problem with that. A Satanic witch knows that her femininity is her
greatest asset and can use it to her advantage without feeling shame or guilt. Some feminist groups have criticized our use of a nude female
altar as degrading to women. What they don't realize is that the women who do this do it because they want to. It is a place of honor and
elevation symbolic of mother earth. Most other religions denigrate women and make them subservient to men. I find the misogyny inherent
in patriarchal religions repugnant, personally.
Does music play a role in Satanic practices? If so what types of music and what kind of role does it play?
Music can stir the emotions and that is its purpose in ritual. That and to set the desired mood. Anton LaVey was a musician and he
understood the effect music has on the emotions. He had a suggested list but here is the bottom line: using music that is stimulating to the
participant(s) is what's important. If you get nothing out of the music that Anton LaVey suggests, then don't use it.
Part II: Personal Point of view of the History of The Church of Satan
How long have you been practicing?
Since Satanism is a non-proselytizing religion, how did you become involved in Satanism?
What drew you to this belief system?
How do you personally characterize a Satanist?
Are you the member of a Satanic community? If so, how would you describe the community?
I discovered that I was a Satanist in the late eighties or early nineties. I joined the Church of Satan in 2005. I read somewhere that there
existed a book called "The Satanic Bible". Being into dark music and imagery at the time, I was intrigued by what this book might contain. I
found a rational, no non-sense philosophy coupled with a ritual magic practice that was stimulating but didn't require faith of any kind.
I characterize a Satanist as someone who is strong willed, confident, determined, self-reliant, and passionate. Also someone who has a
strong sense of justice.
If by "Satanic community" you mean a social group then yes, I have a group of friends who are Satanists. The term "Satanic community"
is a bit of an oxymoron in that communities are often groups who identify as victims of some sort of injustice, real or imagined, and whose
sole raison d'être is to rail against said injustice. Satanists are not whiners and Satanism is not a cause. See Peter Gilmore's essay, "The
Myth of the 'Satanic Community' and Other Virtual Delusions" for a better explanation at
http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/MythCommunity.html
That being said, I would describe us as a group of friends who share a common life philosophy and from that, enjoy each other's company.
If possible, can you tell me if there is a strong community in Canada? If yes, how large do you estimate the community is? How long has
the community been active? Is there a specific social class who participate in the community? What is the average level of education within
the community?
The CoS does not make its membership numbers public. The church takes its members privacy very seriously. I would guess that there
have been members in Canada since the founding of the church or shortly thereafter. Satanists come from all walks of life, social classes
and levels of education. We are everywhere.
Do people often leave the Satanic lifestyle? If yes, for what reasons do you believe they choose to do so?
I honestly don't know if people often leave the Satanic lifestyle. I do not concern myself with such things. I would imagine that someone
who feels that they no longer fit the definition of "Satanist" was probably never one to begin with. We feel that "Satanist" is a personality
type rather than something you become or convert to. Some leave because they feel that they haven't been given the recognition they feel
they deserve. Those who join to climb the totem pole are joining for the wrong reasons. They grow disillusioned and leave in a huff. I'm
sure they're not missed.
Does the community offer any sort of social activities? If yes, what types?
Very rarely. On the 6th of June, 2006 (666), the CoS put on a High Mass to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its founding which was
attended by over one hundred members from all over the world. But mostly, social gatherings are organised by members who wish to
socialize with each other. This is completely voluntary. Members are under no obligation to make contact with other members.
Do you feel a connection to the members of the Church of Satan?
Not so much a connection but I give a CoS member more of the benefit of the doubt than your average citizen because chances are we will
see eye to eye on a lot of crucial things. They automatically start off at a higher level in my book. That doesn't mean I'll get along with
every member. If and when that is the case, I simply will not associate with that person. We need not get along but we are expected to be
civil. That's the house rule.
What is your personal interpretation of the Nine Satanic Statements?
The Nine Satanic Statements don't require personal interpretation as they are quite clear. They outline the Satanic philosophy. They are also
the first clue that we don't anthropomorphise Satan as most of them state clearly that "Satan represents...".
Part III: The Personal Function and Meaning of Satanism
What does the imagery of Satan mean to you?
Why Satan? How do you personally use and or view the symbol of Satan?
To me, Satan represents pride and rebellion against conformity. "Satan" in Hebrew means "adversary" or one who opposes. So Satan
represents opposition to all religions that would stifle man's natural instincts and make them sinful. He is the adversary of those who would
impose their false morality on others. We use the name "Satan" because he is the archetype of all these things. Also, Satan is a good filter to
keep away the kind of people we don't want do deal with. It can also attract kooks, but the CoS has a good screening process to keep them
out.
I think of the Miltonian Satan, not the cruel unjust demon of films like "The Exorcist". That's just silly Christian propaganda meant to
frighten their flock into obedience. Satan is a hero who wants to give man wisdom, unlike God who wants man to be ignorant and
worshipful. Such a god has my contempt.
Where do you feel the symbolism of Satan is the most prevalent in your practices?
Do you practice Greater and Lesser magic?
Do you participate in rituals? If yes, what kind of rituals? If no, why not?
The symbolism of Satan is prevalent in all my practices. In my mundane life I am the Satan in society and in the ritual chamber that inner
flame is externalized for the purpose of psychodrama and magic.
Greater Magic is Ritual Magic. Magic is a very personal and subjective thing and not many Satanists talk openly about it but I can say that it
is a form of self-therapy that is meant to rid the practitioner of obsessive emotions. If I get the desired results I feel that I may be tapping
into what is a hidden force of nature. Not something supernatural (everything that exists is natural) but something as yet unexplained by
science. What Anton LaVey called "super-normal".
Lesser Magic is just the every day methods of getting people to do as you wish. I don't give away my secrets but if I got you to do
something I wanted, you will have been happy to do it! It's not about coercion but influence.
How or does Satanism play a role in the creation of your personal ethics?
Satanism is at its core a non-theistic religion, so do you then consider yourself an atheist? To go a little further, do you personally identify
yourself as an atheist or a Satanist first? Is this a consensus in the community?
I don't think Satanism has much role in the creation of my personal ethics as much as my ethics happen to run congruent with what
Satanism defines as acceptable and unacceptable behaviour.
I think "atheist" is accurate but "Satanist" is more accurate. So I would say I'm a Satanist first. Atheism is just a label defining one's stance
on the existence of God. As a Satanist, I take this further by putting myself in God's place, so his existence becomes irrelevant. I am the
center of my own subjective universe. I can't speak for everyone but I think many Satanists view it that way.
How do you integrate Satanic theory into your life?
I live my life to the fullest.
I champion justice and abhor injustice, hypocrisy and irresponsible behaviour.
I am conscious of and try to avoid the 9 Satanic Sins.
I am selfish but not narcissistic.
I am materialistic but have perspective.
I know the difference between indulgence and compulsion and avoid the latter.
I feel protective towards children and animals.
I love those dear to me with a whole heart but will not turn the other cheek to those who would harm me and those I cherish.
I do not waste my life here in hopes of heavenly rewards.
I honor my animal instincts.
All these things make me a Satanist. It isn't so much a matter of integrating them as they are characteristics that make up who I am.
How does Satanism influence your art? Are there particular artists and works that have influenced you?
My art is mostly music. Making music gives me pleasure and that is what makes it Satanic. As far as how Satanism influences my music,
some Satanic principles may come through in my lyrics. I also try to set a mood with my lyrics and music that conveys a Gothic horror
atmosphere, which is a very Satanic aesthetic.
I was influenced by a wide variety of musicians including jazz and heavy metal artists but one that is more obviously Satanic that had a big
influence on me was King Diamond.
Do you totally dismiss the idea of any sort of God? Do the majority of Satanists you have encountered share your feelings?
I see the concept of a personal god to be very unlikely. But as I said previously, the existence of God is irrelevant to me since I have placed
myself in that role. Peter Gilmore refers to this as "I-theism". Some people have a need to feel that they're loved by some higher power. I
don't.
I would say that most Satanists that I have encountered consider themselves strongly atheist. A theist is not likely to read the Satanic Bible
and then convert to Satanism because it would be incompatible to how he views the world. Most people who discover they are Satanists
were probably already in the atheist camp or were in a serious state of doubt about God. Theism and Satanism are incompatible and that
goes for the Devil as well as God. So if anyone tells you he is a Satanist and he believes in and worships the Devil, he is not a Satanist by
our definition. And our definition is the only one that matters. Sorry pseudo-Satanists!
What books do you consider to be significant in shaping your world-view?
I think my world view has been shaped by life experience more than books. But I must say that the Satanic texts played no small part in
helping me learn how the world really works and confirming my feelings about Christian hypocrisy. I also enjoy Nietzsche and modern
atheist literature such as Richard Dawkins' and Christopher Hitchens' work.
Thank you for your interest in the Church of Satan. I hope your contact with the church has been a pleasant experience.
Hail Satan!
Warlock Eric.
Who do you consider to be the founder of this Satanism? What is the history of the Church of Satan?
What do you consider to be key Satanic texts? How and why are these texts relevant? Are these texts still used and in what ways, either
personally or as a community?
Satanism was defined and codified by Anton Szandor LaVey in 1966. Before he founded the CoS there were no people who labeled
themselves as Satanists short of fiction. At least not in any organized way that I'm aware of. It was used more as an epithet against one's
enemies and others who were seen as different. The Jews are a good example of this, having been accused of all sorts of things over the
centuries.
It would be hard to get into the whole history of the CoS in this short interview. That would and has required a whole book. I recommend
getting a hold of "Secret Life of a Satanist" and "The Church of Satan" (out of print, though) by Blanche Barton. Also the official CoS
website (http://www.churchofsatan.com) has a good overview of the history of the organization.
The Key Satanic texts are:
"The Satanic Bible"
"The Satanic Rituals"
"The Satanic Witch"
"The Devil's Notebook"
"Satan Speaks"
all by Anton LaVey.
"The Church of Satan" and "The Secret Life of a Satanist", by Blanche Barton.
"The Satanic Scriptures", by Peter H. Gilmore.
The philosophies and dogma of Satanism are mostly spelled out in The Satanic Bible with other canonical Satanic principles spread
throughout Anton LaVey's other works. Further clarification of the church's stance on a variety of issues are expounded upon in Peter
Gilmore's, "The Satanic Scriptures."
All these texts (except for a few essays in "The Devil's Notebook" and "Satan Speaks" which are the Doktor's personal opinion) are
canonical and are still used since they are the foundation upon which Satanism is based.
What, if any, holidays do you celebrate and why? Why are these holidays significant?
Being a religion that places the self as god, the highest holiday in Satanism is one's own birthday. Other special days celebrated by some
Satanists are Walpurgisnacht (April 30th), Halloween, and the solstices and equinoxes heralding the seasonal changes. Celebration is not
mandatory and Satanists celebrate as they see fit.
Walpurgis is a pagan festival heralding the arrival of spring. There are of course the legends of witches flying to secret gatherings where
they would seek the Devil's favour. The Church of Satan was founded on this night.
Halloween, with its ghoulish imagery, costumes, "treat" indulgence and fun-fear is seen as a time of year when everyone wants to be like
us. But all holidays are ours, even Christmas (Yule). Everyone knows Santa is an anagram of Satan. And he wears red to boot!
Do you attend and services or rituals?
Do you encourage or discourage participation in this religion? I am aware that this is a non-proselytizing religion, however, how do you
treat those who show interest?
I have participated in group ritual. You can see me and a group of other Satanists performing one such ritual in the film, "Inside the Church
of Satan". See www.insidethechurchofsatan.com for more details.
I really don't care what others do so I neither encourage nor discourage participation in this religion. If a person reads the literature and
discovers that he or she is indeed a Satanist, then that person can choose their level of involvement. Everyone is different and many
Satanists choose not to interact with other Satanists. People who show genuine interest are directed to read our literature and the official
website so they can make an informed decision about affiliation. Note that minors cannot become members until they become of age in
their country of residence.
Do you personally identify Satanism as a religion?
Yes. Satanism qualifies as a religion because it includes both philosophy and dogma. It has sometimes been referred to as an "un-religion"
because of how different it is from mainstream religions. I don't have a problem calling myself religious though I don't consider myself
spiritual. Many people see themselves as spiritual but not religious. I see Satanism as the opposite since it is a religion of the flesh rather
than of the spirit. Satanists doubt the existence of the spirit and the afterlife so they concentrate on the here and now.
How do you feel the Church of Satan is perceived by non-members?
I suppose the Church of Satan is somewhat misunderstood. There are still those who believe some of the non-sense that was leveled
against it during a period that has been called the "Satanic Panic". These stories of baby breeding and ritual slaughter were totally debunked
by an FBI report in the early 1990's. Many people still don't realize that Satanism has an atheistic view point and that we don't worship any
deities. There are many CoS representatives engaged in clarifying these misconceptions when they come up.
If, however, you meant Satanist non-members, I think there are some who think that joining the CoS would somehow put a limitation on
their freedom. I see this as a little strange as, being a member myself, it has done nothing of the sort. If anything, being a member and
having since been elevated to the Second Degree has given me a great sense of pride. I joined because I wanted to support the original and
only organization that stands for true Satanism. I saw a group of individuals doing great things for themselves and in so doing, reflected
positively on the church.
But I'm sure most Satanists who aren't members have great respect for the CoS though for reasons of their own choose not to affiliate.
That is just fine.
What roles do women and gender play in the Church of Satan?
Women have a prominent role in the Church of Satan. After the death of our founder in 1997, Blanche Barton took over the reins of the
organization. The current High Priest, Peter H. Gilmore, shares the office with his wife Peggy Nadramia, the High Priestess.
Satanists know that men and women are different and don't see a problem with that. A Satanic witch knows that her femininity is her
greatest asset and can use it to her advantage without feeling shame or guilt. Some feminist groups have criticized our use of a nude female
altar as degrading to women. What they don't realize is that the women who do this do it because they want to. It is a place of honor and
elevation symbolic of mother earth. Most other religions denigrate women and make them subservient to men. I find the misogyny inherent
in patriarchal religions repugnant, personally.
Does music play a role in Satanic practices? If so what types of music and what kind of role does it play?
Music can stir the emotions and that is its purpose in ritual. That and to set the desired mood. Anton LaVey was a musician and he
understood the effect music has on the emotions. He had a suggested list but here is the bottom line: using music that is stimulating to the
participant(s) is what's important. If you get nothing out of the music that Anton LaVey suggests, then don't use it.
Part II: Personal Point of view of the History of The Church of Satan
How long have you been practicing?
Since Satanism is a non-proselytizing religion, how did you become involved in Satanism?
What drew you to this belief system?
How do you personally characterize a Satanist?
Are you the member of a Satanic community? If so, how would you describe the community?
I discovered that I was a Satanist in the late eighties or early nineties. I joined the Church of Satan in 2005. I read somewhere that there
existed a book called "The Satanic Bible". Being into dark music and imagery at the time, I was intrigued by what this book might contain. I
found a rational, no non-sense philosophy coupled with a ritual magic practice that was stimulating but didn't require faith of any kind.
I characterize a Satanist as someone who is strong willed, confident, determined, self-reliant, and passionate. Also someone who has a
strong sense of justice.
If by "Satanic community" you mean a social group then yes, I have a group of friends who are Satanists. The term "Satanic community"
is a bit of an oxymoron in that communities are often groups who identify as victims of some sort of injustice, real or imagined, and whose
sole raison d'être is to rail against said injustice. Satanists are not whiners and Satanism is not a cause. See Peter Gilmore's essay, "The
Myth of the 'Satanic Community' and Other Virtual Delusions" for a better explanation at
http://www.churchofsatan.com/Pages/MythCommunity.html
That being said, I would describe us as a group of friends who share a common life philosophy and from that, enjoy each other's company.
If possible, can you tell me if there is a strong community in Canada? If yes, how large do you estimate the community is? How long has
the community been active? Is there a specific social class who participate in the community? What is the average level of education within
the community?
The CoS does not make its membership numbers public. The church takes its members privacy very seriously. I would guess that there
have been members in Canada since the founding of the church or shortly thereafter. Satanists come from all walks of life, social classes
and levels of education. We are everywhere.
Do people often leave the Satanic lifestyle? If yes, for what reasons do you believe they choose to do so?
I honestly don't know if people often leave the Satanic lifestyle. I do not concern myself with such things. I would imagine that someone
who feels that they no longer fit the definition of "Satanist" was probably never one to begin with. We feel that "Satanist" is a personality
type rather than something you become or convert to. Some leave because they feel that they haven't been given the recognition they feel
they deserve. Those who join to climb the totem pole are joining for the wrong reasons. They grow disillusioned and leave in a huff. I'm
sure they're not missed.
Does the community offer any sort of social activities? If yes, what types?
Very rarely. On the 6th of June, 2006 (666), the CoS put on a High Mass to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its founding which was
attended by over one hundred members from all over the world. But mostly, social gatherings are organised by members who wish to
socialize with each other. This is completely voluntary. Members are under no obligation to make contact with other members.
Do you feel a connection to the members of the Church of Satan?
Not so much a connection but I give a CoS member more of the benefit of the doubt than your average citizen because chances are we will
see eye to eye on a lot of crucial things. They automatically start off at a higher level in my book. That doesn't mean I'll get along with
every member. If and when that is the case, I simply will not associate with that person. We need not get along but we are expected to be
civil. That's the house rule.
What is your personal interpretation of the Nine Satanic Statements?
The Nine Satanic Statements don't require personal interpretation as they are quite clear. They outline the Satanic philosophy. They are also
the first clue that we don't anthropomorphise Satan as most of them state clearly that "Satan represents...".
Part III: The Personal Function and Meaning of Satanism
What does the imagery of Satan mean to you?
Why Satan? How do you personally use and or view the symbol of Satan?
To me, Satan represents pride and rebellion against conformity. "Satan" in Hebrew means "adversary" or one who opposes. So Satan
represents opposition to all religions that would stifle man's natural instincts and make them sinful. He is the adversary of those who would
impose their false morality on others. We use the name "Satan" because he is the archetype of all these things. Also, Satan is a good filter to
keep away the kind of people we don't want do deal with. It can also attract kooks, but the CoS has a good screening process to keep them
out.
I think of the Miltonian Satan, not the cruel unjust demon of films like "The Exorcist". That's just silly Christian propaganda meant to
frighten their flock into obedience. Satan is a hero who wants to give man wisdom, unlike God who wants man to be ignorant and
worshipful. Such a god has my contempt.
Where do you feel the symbolism of Satan is the most prevalent in your practices?
Do you practice Greater and Lesser magic?
Do you participate in rituals? If yes, what kind of rituals? If no, why not?
The symbolism of Satan is prevalent in all my practices. In my mundane life I am the Satan in society and in the ritual chamber that inner
flame is externalized for the purpose of psychodrama and magic.
Greater Magic is Ritual Magic. Magic is a very personal and subjective thing and not many Satanists talk openly about it but I can say that it
is a form of self-therapy that is meant to rid the practitioner of obsessive emotions. If I get the desired results I feel that I may be tapping
into what is a hidden force of nature. Not something supernatural (everything that exists is natural) but something as yet unexplained by
science. What Anton LaVey called "super-normal".
Lesser Magic is just the every day methods of getting people to do as you wish. I don't give away my secrets but if I got you to do
something I wanted, you will have been happy to do it! It's not about coercion but influence.
How or does Satanism play a role in the creation of your personal ethics?
Satanism is at its core a non-theistic religion, so do you then consider yourself an atheist? To go a little further, do you personally identify
yourself as an atheist or a Satanist first? Is this a consensus in the community?
I don't think Satanism has much role in the creation of my personal ethics as much as my ethics happen to run congruent with what
Satanism defines as acceptable and unacceptable behaviour.
I think "atheist" is accurate but "Satanist" is more accurate. So I would say I'm a Satanist first. Atheism is just a label defining one's stance
on the existence of God. As a Satanist, I take this further by putting myself in God's place, so his existence becomes irrelevant. I am the
center of my own subjective universe. I can't speak for everyone but I think many Satanists view it that way.
How do you integrate Satanic theory into your life?
I live my life to the fullest.
I champion justice and abhor injustice, hypocrisy and irresponsible behaviour.
I am conscious of and try to avoid the 9 Satanic Sins.
I am selfish but not narcissistic.
I am materialistic but have perspective.
I know the difference between indulgence and compulsion and avoid the latter.
I feel protective towards children and animals.
I love those dear to me with a whole heart but will not turn the other cheek to those who would harm me and those I cherish.
I do not waste my life here in hopes of heavenly rewards.
I honor my animal instincts.
All these things make me a Satanist. It isn't so much a matter of integrating them as they are characteristics that make up who I am.
How does Satanism influence your art? Are there particular artists and works that have influenced you?
My art is mostly music. Making music gives me pleasure and that is what makes it Satanic. As far as how Satanism influences my music,
some Satanic principles may come through in my lyrics. I also try to set a mood with my lyrics and music that conveys a Gothic horror
atmosphere, which is a very Satanic aesthetic.
I was influenced by a wide variety of musicians including jazz and heavy metal artists but one that is more obviously Satanic that had a big
influence on me was King Diamond.
Do you totally dismiss the idea of any sort of God? Do the majority of Satanists you have encountered share your feelings?
I see the concept of a personal god to be very unlikely. But as I said previously, the existence of God is irrelevant to me since I have placed
myself in that role. Peter Gilmore refers to this as "I-theism". Some people have a need to feel that they're loved by some higher power. I
don't.
I would say that most Satanists that I have encountered consider themselves strongly atheist. A theist is not likely to read the Satanic Bible
and then convert to Satanism because it would be incompatible to how he views the world. Most people who discover they are Satanists
were probably already in the atheist camp or were in a serious state of doubt about God. Theism and Satanism are incompatible and that
goes for the Devil as well as God. So if anyone tells you he is a Satanist and he believes in and worships the Devil, he is not a Satanist by
our definition. And our definition is the only one that matters. Sorry pseudo-Satanists!
What books do you consider to be significant in shaping your world-view?
I think my world view has been shaped by life experience more than books. But I must say that the Satanic texts played no small part in
helping me learn how the world really works and confirming my feelings about Christian hypocrisy. I also enjoy Nietzsche and modern
atheist literature such as Richard Dawkins' and Christopher Hitchens' work.
Thank you for your interest in the Church of Satan. I hope your contact with the church has been a pleasant experience.
Hail Satan!
Warlock Eric.
| Interview with Warlock HellofallHells conducted by Concordia University student |
