I've been curious as to the reality of this LaVey Satanism ever since I was first enlightened to the fact that it actually exists, and that Satanism is not only burning black cats and babies. I met a practioner on a forum long ago, and have come to respect his idealogy.

I'm a Christian, and studying theology major, but not your usual one. So don't assume my doctrines, and I won't assume yours.

But I come here out of curiousity. I've been meaning to do a thourough study on Satanism, as I've already been studying this "Satan" figure and his history, true history. So before I do that, I thought I'd go to the practioners. Yes, I've read the "Before you.." site, and it was very helpful.

If any of you had anything to say to a Christian, what would it be? I'm sure many of you have been stereotyped before, just as anyone else. I'd like to hear people's stories, and what they'd have us know.

That you have wandered into the wrong place.

I've never been stereotyped. Maybe it's just me, but since I don't introduce myself by my religion (or any other prepackaged identity) I tend to not have these kinds of discussions.

Interestingly enough, I'm on a Satanic forum and I don't even discuss Satanism much here, except in an official capacity. I'm clear on where I stand and have no need of rehashing the issue ad infinitum.

I find this sort of thing tedious. I suggest if you think you understand and respect our philosophy yet consider yourself a Christian, you probably don't understand us as well as you think. There is something far more subtle yet fundamentally opposed to theistic god adoration and love-thy-neighbor to Satanism than something as histrionic as harming animals.

Well I'm trying to understand just because I don't want to be ignorent. Perhaps I can't fully understand while being a Christian, I'm sure no one can understand anyone else unless they are in their shoes. But can't hurt to try to learn. Knowledge is power they say.

Nice tone. Next time, try a less snide approach.



You mean like this...



Strike two.



Like right in this post? Hmmm.

Instead of baiting our board members and talking down to them in the process, you might find it more educational to actually read The Satanic Bible by Anton Szandor LaVey, since you claim to want to know more about "this LaVey Satanism." That is, if learning is actually your real intention.

Mm was I wrong in assuming that Satanism isn't only about the above? =P

I don't see the "talking down" in my post, but i can admit there might be some. I was trying to be as neutral in the request as I could think of doing. Although yes, I am trying to learn. I'm curious, and above all don't want to be ignorent on the subject. I will read the book however, as soon as possible. I'm not sure it would be more educational, seeing as my interpretation of it may not be what a Satanist actually practices. Just like one may read the Koran or Christian Bible, interpret it one way, while the practioner sees it differently.

EDIT: I realize that first statement is an assumption, so my appologies. I come in with my own preconcieved notions that I recieved from someone else. Correct assumption or not, assumption nonetheless.

Game over.

No.

That is what we say.

Christianity is based on faith not knowledge, surrender not power.

But if you actually are a Christian you should already know that.

I wouldn't agree, not entirely at least. But true or not, beliefs and perspectives can change. I believe in the importance of knowledge and wisdom, but moving onward..

I have questions.

The Church of Satan, or whatever this particular forum or members thereof is or claims to be affiliated with... is it or are you exclusive to the Anton LaVey Satanism? I'm trying to find how to phrase it correctly. But... is what's found in the Satanic Bible, penned by LaVey, considered the true Satanism? And what of the others who claim to be a 'Satanist.'

Also, I'm curious as to why the religion/practice would be called "SATAN-ism" if the practioners do not necessarily believe such a creature exists? Or rather I should ask first, do they believe he does?

Only moderators and priesthood can reply? Hm.. I kind of wanted to hear from everyone, but I can understand the reasons.

Can you?


Begin here: http://www.churchofsatan.com

It is the only Satanism that there is.



They are not Satanists.



This is answered in The Satanic Bible, as well as in other publications by Dr. LaVey. Read... and learn.

Reason alone should tell you, especially you as a christian who should have studied their apologia, that just because someone "claims" to be a part of a given religion, does not mean they are a true adherent or accurate representation of that religion.



Consider the perspective that not everyone else in the world defines everything the same as you do.

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