Infernal Dialogues

Infernal Dialogues

Demons | Ritual | Spirituality | FAQs 

Categories
astral nasties attachment black magick constructs demonic medicine demons magick occult servitors spirits

Predatory Servitors: A Primer

 
 Servitors, or constructs, are essentially non-corporeal artificial entities which have been created for a specific purpose by a person or an entity.  Servitors may be created and used for a number of purposes—depending upon its function, a servitor may be referred to in a general sense as persuasive, talismanic, protective or predatory.

For the purposes of this article, we will explore the topic of how one may utilise predatory servitors. When most individuals think of the word “predatory”, they may perceive a thing as animalistic, violent or otherwise negative. Not all predatory servitors are designed with sinister intentions, however—as we will explore, predatory servitors may be used for many purposes.

It is generally believed that vampiric or predatory constructs of any description should be classified within the parameters of “Black Magick”. While I would not wholly disagree with this perception, I do not necessarily endorse it. My personal definition of Black Magick is magick which has been designed to harm or to hinder. Depending upon how an individual defines the term, predatory constructs may or may not belong to the practice of Black Magick. However this topic is somewhat irrelevant.

Amongst many things, predatory servitors are primarily used to siphon or to break down energy. On one side of the ethical spectrum, such entities may be used to prey upon an enemy, for example—breaking down the outermost energetic layers of his or her aura and infecting or feeding upon their personal energy reserves. Additionally such a technique may be used to simply weaken the defences of the individual, leaving them open to attack by the magician. Predatory servitors may also be programmed to “haunt” a specific location—latching onto those who stimulate the pre-defined trigger and creating havoc until the offender either satisfies its programmed criteria for release or until it otherwise dissipates or is removed.

An example of using predatory entities to “haunt” or to guard a location would be employing them as guardians within a household. The entities may be programmed to attack intruders until they have been brought to justice. The dangers in using such constructs vary, but it is paramount to ensure that the servitor’s programming prevents it from mistaking visitors for intruders amongst other things. Some magicians use such entities as their personal “Karmic hit men”—dispatching them to afflict anyone who wrongs them until the offender “gets what they deserve”.

While it is not fundamentally considered to be “predatory” for a servitor to function as a carrier for maleficium, predatory servitors may be programmed to simply latch onto a person and remain inactive until that individual triggers it to react—such triggers may be that the individual was observed by the servitor plotting against the magician. Another example would be to program a servitor to observe another person and to attack them whenever the person speaks ill of the magician. There are many examples of the usefulness of servitors as carriers of triggered maleficium. Traditionally the witch’s familiar could also be expected to perform such a task.

Vampiric constructs may be seen as a specialised form of predatory servitor in that their sole purpose is to siphon energy. They may be used to weaken auras as aforementioned or they may be used to harvest and store energy for later consumption by the magician. Vampiric servitors are often employed by energetic vampires themselves as something akin to an “energy drink”. When the practitioner finds themselves in need of an energetic boost, they may draw the stored energy from the servitor in place of finding an external source.

Predatory constructs can be useful for healing purposes, as well. For example, a carefully-programmed servitor may be used to rid one’s own aura of “astral nasties”, serving as a parasite of sorts. The servitor may acquire its energy directly from the bodies which it consumes or it may be “fed” by the magician from his or her own store of personal energy. Additionally vampiric entities may be used to weaken the life-forces of viruses and bacteria and other detrimental microbiological entities thus aiding the healing process.

Generally speaking, predatory constructs may be created in the same manner as any other construct or servitor—some magicians believe that one must somehow “bind” the servitor to his or her physical body by using one’s own blood in the creation process. However I have never done this and have created many successful predatory servitors and parasitic constructs without incidence. I have reservations when it comes to using one’s own blood to bind a servitor to oneself—others may disagree, but servitors must be created with the understanding that they may be destroyed if the need arises. This is why magicians bind the entities to a physical vessel such as a clay pot. If the entity is bound to one’s blood, it is my belief that he or she is risking the possibility that their construct may become too powerful or rebellious to control and cannot be destroyed—at least not completely—without the death of the creator. Additionally when an entity is directly bound to one’s own flesh and blood, the creator also runs the risk of experiencing sympathetic malady—a condition in which either the magician’s physical body or astral body suffers when the blood-bound entity experiences weakness or is harmed.

The danger in creating such entities is of course the very real possibility that they will indeed rebel or otherwise operate in an undesirable manner. In the case of parasitic or vampiric servitors, many inexperienced magicians find that their programming was careless and that their constructs have essentially found “loopholes” which allow them to operate as they wish. Many practitioners believe that artificial entities are entirely incapable of free will. With the potential for the evolution of such entities, I am reminded of Ian Malcolm’s foreboding statement in Jurassic Park—“…life finds a way”.

While a servitor which has been correctly programmed and adequately compensated for its efforts is unlikely to suddenly revolt, all entities are capable of evolving. Like all living things, the ultimate primal need of a construct is survival—if it is not receiving what it requires in order to survive, it will begin to “think” for itself and will find a way to satisfy its needs. This sometimes means that the vampiric servitor will turn upon its creator and feed directly upon them. Situations such as this may be prevented with careful attention being paid to the programming of the entity before its creation and with regular dedicated feedings which ensure that its needs are being met.

Some practitioners often confuse servitors with summoned spirits which can perform similar tasks. Again the difference between the two entities is that the former is willed into being by the magician himself and the latter is called forth by the magician. A fantastic book for those interested in working with summoned spirits is Donald Tyson’s Familiar Spirits which is available through Llewellyn Publishing and online stores such as Amazon.com.

Categories
altruism black magick demonolatry demons goetia holy days left hand path magick meditation necromancy neo-paganism paganism psychodrama right hand path ritual rules satan satanism

Basic Satanic Ritual & Magick For Neo-Pagans


When most people think of “Satanic rituals”, they conjure up wild and frightening imagery of animal sacrifice, perverse sexual orgies and, of course, chanting masked figures clad in dark robes.  This is, of course, to be expected when one considers the popular depictions of Satanism and its rituals.  The entertainment industry is to blame for much of these negative and unfairly stereotyped portrayals; Satanism, along with witchcraft, has always been an enticing target for storytellers looking to craft an enthralling plot.  The reality of Satanism and its practices, however, could not be more different.
Although there are always those with different perspectives, it is safe to say that most Satanists, regardless of path, do not condone criminal acts and any acts in which an innocent life is destroyed or harmed in any way.  This philosophy also carries over into the realm of ritual practice—although most Satanists either practice or support the use of destructive magick, it is not to be assumed that this means that we support the careless application of curses and other maleficium.  As I will discuss a later, black magick is not always deserving of its reputation.  I should also point out that not all Satanists and Demonolators practice magick—many are simply spiritual individuals who, for them, derive their fulfilment from the simple acts of prayer, meditation or by making offerings to their gods.  For the purposes of this article, however, I would like to introduce you to some of the rituals and magickal workings practiced by real Satanists and Demonolators.
I have had quite a few Wiccans and Neo-Pagans surprised to learn that some paths within Satanism embrace many of the same practices and ritual observances which they do themselves—most common is the concept of the “Wheel of the Year”.  Since some Satanic paths are also Neo-Pagan in that they recognise the divinity within the Natural World, practitioners of such paths honour the Earth through the celebration of seasonal rites.  These celebrations may or may not retain the traditional names such as Lughnasadh or Samhain as they occur within the Satanic paths which observe them, but for some they do.  For most Theistic Satanists who choose to observe the Wheel of the Year, the meanings behind each Sabbat are not typically the same as those found within Wicca.  
For example, while Wiccans generally adhere to the mythology of the God and the Goddess and their roles according to the seasons, Theistic Satanists may choose to simply honour the Earth in general, the Elements, an aspect of Satan or a particular Demon.  The latter is typical of most Demonolators—there are Demons, just as there are gods and goddesses, which correspond to each of the festivals.  It should be noted that Demonolatry is not inherently Satanic in nature.  There are Demonolators who do not recognise Satan as an entity of any kind.
For Atheistic and LaVeyan Satanists specifically, magick may or may not play a role in one’s day-to-day existence.  Although most LaVeyan Satanists consider any belief in the supernatural to be nonsensical, LaVey’s own writings are ambiguous where the belief in natural magick is concerned.  For these Satanists, magick and ritual are regarded as psychological vehicles for self-transformation and catharsis—however, LaVey clearly endorsed the use of ritual for a variety of purposes such as for the cursing of enemies as well as for the blessing of loved ones.
One ritual with its origins solidly rooted within LaVeyan tradition is the celebration of one’s own birthday.  This idea was a result of LaVey’s belief that every human being is inherently divine and godlike—thus the day of one’s birth is seen as a holy day in the same manner as the holy day of any other god or goddess.  Many Theistic Satanists and non-LaVeyan Atheistic Satanists have also adopted the recognition of one’s own birthday as a holy day within the context of their own systems of belief.  As I have said before, much of the content within modern Satanism has been, in some way or another, inspired by Anton Szandor LaVey.
Where we find historical “accounts” of alleged Satanism, we almost certainly are confronted with the notorious imagery of the devotee making a gruesome pact with Satan—in essence, “selling one’s soul” to the Devil.  As nonsensical as the selling of one’s soul to Satan is, many real-life Satanists do actually choose to devote themselves to Him by means of a pact.  Most often the agreement outlines the individual’s own willingness to dedicate themselves to maintaining a lifelong relationship and allegiance with Satan.  If this idea makes you uncomfortable, then perhaps your perception is still influenced by popular culture and Christian propaganda.  Nevertheless, Satanic pacts can and do play an important role in an individual’s spiritual journey. 
    
Pacts and Self-Initiation
Before you dismiss the practice of Satanic pacts, entertain for a moment the process of self-initiation and dedication within a Wiccan or Neo-Pagan context.  Generally, when a Seeker finds a deity with whom they wish to work or align themselves, it is typical that they perform what is known as a self-dedication ritual—making a vow to serve that entity.  Likewise, when a Seeker has come to accept Wicca or Neo-Wicca as their religion of choice, it is customary for him or her to be initiated or to perform a self-initiation rite for the purpose of devoting themselves to their path.  There is absolutely no difference between a Wiccan dedication ritual and a Satanic pact other than the fact that most Wiccans do not dedicate themselves to Satan! 
The pact itself may be created with or without the accompaniment of a proper ritual.  Some Satanists choose a specific day, time and place for the signing of their pacts—others decide on a whim and let Chaos dictate what is to follow.  Still others enjoy the theatrics of psychodrama, the use of ritual and symbolism in the stimulation of psychological processes, and may choose to create their pact to be reminiscent of a medieval parchment, complete with their signature rendered in their own blood. 
Although this may sound pointless and grotesque, it is generally accepted within Neo-Paganism that the use of symbolism and ambience can greatly affect one’s mood and magickal undertakings for better or for worse.  The use of blood in ritual is also not unique to Satanism as there are a number of Neo-Pagan paths which utilise its magickal and energetic properties.  Signing a pact in one’s own blood also implies a sense of seriousness in that one is pledging one’s word, through his or her very life’s essence ensuring that the oath is unbreakable.  The most common reason why devotees may decide to use such imagery is because many Satanists, like some Neo-Pagans and witches, appreciate darker themes and feel more comfortable expressing themselves in this way.  Others may find such things distasteful and opt for a more basic approach, using instead a simple piece of paper and an altar adorned with seasonal flora.

The following is an example of a very basic pact (©2011 Torey B. Scott): 

I, __(name)__, do hereby pledge, from this day forward, my allegiance, loyalty and services to my Lord, Satan.  I promise to honour Him, exalt Him and to open myself to receive His lessons that I may grow in the Light of Knowledge.  I will strive to question all established truths and to challenge those who maintain that ignorance is bliss.  I acknowledge that I am a human being, worthy of contentment, and I will aspire to satisfy my desires and needs to the capacity which both law and love allow.  Above all, I shall remain forever true to myself and to those whom I love.  By all that I hold dear to me, I dedicate myself to you, Lord Satan.  

Satanic self-initiation rituals are slightly different from pacts in much the same way that Wiccan and Neo-Pagan self-initiation rituals differ from dedication rituals.  A Satanic self-initiation ritual should always be written solely by the initiate.  In addition to the fact that writing one’s own ritual ensures that it is original and deeply personal, as there are no sacred texts within independent Satanism which dictate a “proper” ritual outline.  Initiates are free to tailor their rituals to their unique practices and relationship with Satan and for many this enables them to better express themselves and their intent.  If a pact was not previously made, the self-initiation ritual is an ideal time to pledge oneself to Satan.  Alternately, the Seeker may choose to pledge themselves by means of a self-dedication instead of a pact.  A self-dedication ritual may be done within a self-initiation rite or it may be done separately.
Like other Neo-Pagan self-initiation rituals, it is encouraged that the initiate purchase or make something for themselves ahead of time which will serve as a gift and a reminder of his or her emergence into a new life as a Satanist.  Many individuals choose jewellery adorned with traditional Satanic icons such as the inverted pentagram, Baphomet or inverted cross.  There is no compulsory requirement that one must adhere to any form of symbolism within Satanism whatsoever—such images carry importance and validity, but the initiate should choose something which he or she is both comfortable wearing and which is harmonious with his or her personal beliefs.  
Self-initiations, like other Satanic rituals, may or may not be performed whilst skyclad or nude.  Nudity within Satanism does not retain the same importance found within most Neo-Pagan traditions, so it is entirely up to the individual.  It is usually encouraged for one to look one’s best however—this means having a cleansing shower or bath beforehand, brushing one’s teeth and hair and (if wearing clothing) dressing in one’s “Sunday best”.  The reasons behind this are essentially to ensure pride in oneself, to show respect to the Divine and to remind oneself that true success in any walk of life takes effort.
Although when the ritual takes place is of little real importance, it is my personal belief that sunrise or noon are the best times to perform self-initiations even though some Satanic sects insist that initiations be carried out after sunset.  I believe that rituals during the daylight hours are ideal because Satan is traditionally recognised as a Solar deity, therefore the Sun should theoretically be present for the ceremony.  This is certainly not a requirement, but in my opinion it is another way to honour Satan and to invite Him into your sacred space.
The rest of the ritual and its design is dictated by the imagination of the initiate.  Many take inspiration from existing Satanic rituals such as those found within Anton LaVey’s book The Satanic Rituals or rites published in works by other Satanic sects.  Again, there is no required equipment nor is there any structure which must be adhered to when constructing a self-initiation ritual.  The following is a very basic outline for a Satanic self-initiation rite which I have written for the purposes of this article:
Satanic Self-Initiation Ritual (©2011 Torey B. Scott)


Materials:
·         Baphomet pendant
·         Four black candles
·         One red candle
·         Inverted pentagram paten or Baphomet altar statue
·         Red pen
·         Black pen
·         Small piece of paper (only a few inches wide)
·         Fireproof bowl filled with sand
·         Matches
·         Silver chalice with red wine
·         Small bowl
·         Incense of your choice (preferably a Solar of fiery scent)
[Before the ritual, take the piece of paper and black pen and write out your pact or dedication to Satan (refer to pages 3 and 4 of this chapter).  Do not sign the pact at this point.]

[With a sharp object, carve an inverted pentagram into the red candle.]
[Prepare your altar by placing the four black candles at the edges to mark the Elemental quarters.  In the centre of the altar, place your paten.  On the paten, place the red candle (alternately, if you have a Baphomet statue, simply place the red candle in front of it).] 
[Place your Baphomet pendant either somewhere on your statue (if you are using one), at its base or next to the red candle on the altar paten.]
[Directly in front of you should be the bowl filled with sand and next to it the matches.  In the South (or North for the Southern Hemisphere), place the small bowl.  In the Southeast (or Northeast for the Southern Hemisphere) place the chalice containing the wine.]
[Prepare your body by taking a long cleansing bath.  If desired, meditate on your life as you have known it up until now and what you wish to do with it in the future.  Think about the impending ritual and what it will mean for you as a person and as a spiritual being.  Afterwards, dress in your best clothing, brush your teeth and hair (paint your fingernails and put on your best makeup if you are a woman and inclined to do so; shave if you are a man—otherwise simply make an effort to appear as neat and pleasing as possible regardless of your gender identity).]
[When you are ready, enter the ritual room and kneel or stand before the altar.  There should be minimal light in the room.  Light the black candles and incense.  Close your eyes and focus on the image of Satan which most appeals to you.  Open your heart to Him and invite Him to join you and to witness your initiation.]
Say:
“Lord Satan!  I invite you to join me here this morning/today/tonight that you may bear witness to this, my initiation into the path of the Enlightened.”
[Open your eyes and focus on the Baphomet statue (if you are using one) or the altar paten.  Imagine the eyes of Satan opening before you as you focus on the image of the statue/paten.  Let your gaze slowly drift down to the red candle.  Feel Satan’s presence all around you, pervading the atmosphere as a warm charged energy which embraces and comforts you.]
[Take the Southerly (Northerly for the Southern Hemisphere) Elemental candle and light the red candle from its flame.  Feel Satan’s presence solidify as the wick begins to burn brightly.]
Say: 
“I welcome you, Lord!”
[Take a moment to fully realise His presence.  Bask in it.  Feel yourself relaxing, body and mind, trusting in His power and wisdom.  When you are ready focus on the red candle again.]
Say:

“This morning/today/tonight I have come here, of my own free will and conviction, for the purpose that I may make manifest my desire to know you, Lord Satan.”

 “I accept your hand in trust and understanding.  Guide me through the darkness that I may realise the falsehoods imposed upon me by those who would wish to suppress my strengths and potential.  Light within me the Black Flame—immortal, inextinguishable.  Let its brilliance warm my heart in my sorrow.  Let its emanation pain me in my stupor and render me ever-mindful of the vows which I make this day.”

[Take the chalice in your hand and hold it up to the red candle.]
Say: 
“May this wine linger as blood on my lips that it should remind me of the sacredness of my flesh and the gift that is my humanity.”
[Take a sip of the wine.]
Say: 
“This I offer to you, Wise Serpent.  Drink with me of this cup and share with me in trust an eternal kinship.”
[Pour the remainder of the wine into the small bowl.  Next, recite the words you have written from your pact/dedication.  Take your time and truly feel the words as your recite them.  When you are done, take the red pen and sign your full name (if you are so inclined and are not squeamish, you may choose to draw a small amount of blood in which you may sign your name).]
Say: 
“It is finished.  I commit my words to the Ether that they may forever remain imprinted upon the fabric of the Universe.”
[Light the paper with the flame from the red candle and place it in the bowl upon the sand.  Allow it to burn completely, reducing it to ashes.  You may need to burn it several times to accomplish this.]
Say: 
“From this day/night I commit myself to the Satanic path—I swear to uphold the spirit of Satan as an agent and champion of Knowledge and the enemy of all which oppresses, stifles and binds freedom of thought.  I am reborn as the Phoenix emerging from the embers—I shall nurture the Black Flame now awakened within me.”
“I thank you, Lord Satan, for sharing with me this glorious day/night.  I promise to you that never shall I neglect nor revoke the vows I have made—hail, Satan.”
[Thank Satan in your heart and, equally as important as this, give yourself credit for having the courage and conviction to embrace a new life path.  Take the Baphomet pendant (or take up whatever gift you have acquired for yourself, wearing or holding it as appropriate) and place it around your neck.  This is your initiation gift.  Keep it near to you that it may serve as a reminder of your commitment to Satan and to yourself.  Extinguish the candles and incense and take the ashes mixed with the sand outside (wherever or whenever is appropriate).  Spread them to the wind and acknowledge that your oath is solidified and final.]    


Within sect-based Satanic traditions such as LaVeyan Satanism, there are suggested ritual outlines upon which most base their own—for Atheistic Satanists, these rituals tend to be fairly simple and symbolic with no spiritual inclinations.  Unlike within other specific Neo-Pagan religions such as Wicca, self-initiation rituals, like pacts, are not required of the practitioner in order for one to call themselves a Satanist.  The vast majority of Satanists, both theistic and atheistic, are solitary practitioners—the need to be viewed by others as “initiated” or “legitimate”, unlike within most Neo-Pagan paths, are of little concern within most forms of Satanism.  This is primarily due to the fact that Satanism is a religion which revolves around the Self and the attaining of individual desires as opposed to the sense of belonging and altruistic concerns of a group.
Within the context of organised Satanic sects, however, there can be specific rituals and practices which all individuals belonging to a particular group must partake in.  Some of these rituals include marriage rites, death rites, divorce rites, baptisms, coming-of-age ceremonies, meal blessings, initiations, devotions, consecrations and many more.  It would be a near impossible task to detail every single ritual within every single Satanic sect, but I have chosen a few specific rituals to expand upon for the purpose of understanding the nature of Satanic ritual.

The Self-Dedication Ritual
For most solitary Theistic Satanists, self-dedication rites are very similar to their Neo-Wiccan counterparts.  As I have already mentioned, the primary difference between a self-dedication ritual and a self-initiation ritual is that the former is concerned with pledging one’s allegiance to a particular deity and the latter is concerned with aligning oneself with a particular path.  In Theistic Satanism, the self-dedication ritual can be as simple as reciting a few lines or as complex as designing and carrying out a full-fledged ceremony.
Depending upon whether or not one is dedicating themselves to a particular Demon or to Satan Himself, one thing is for certain—he or she must be absolutely sure of the decision to dedicate.  Demons, unlike many other deities, are not as forgiving of Their devotees when it comes to being abandoned later on down the road.  Many Neo-Wiccans, for example, may experience dedications to many different gods and goddesses throughout their formative years—they may find that they have “outgrown” a particular deity or that another deity wishes to claim them for itself.  Whatever the case, Demons are not to be entered into an agreement with casually.  
Make no mistake–it is not that They are inclined towards malice, but They simply dislike being used and discarded as I believe all deities most likely do.  Demonolators who have severed their ties with particular Demons have reported that thereafter they had experienced numerous instances of “bad luck” or misfortune.   It could be that guilt and self-undoing on the part of the Demonolator is behind such events, but the reason why Demons are so renowned for Their intolerance of flighty devotees and betrayal may lie in the annals of Ceremonial Magic.  
If there are any beings which are prime candidates for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder it would be the Demons.  One of the major focuses of High Magick is often ceremonial evocation—a technique in which a Demon or other Otherworldly entity is ritually summoned, bound and compelled to perform favours for the magician.  It is my belief that Demons have grown distrustful of human beings in many regards because of the grievous ways in which They have been disrespected.  Not only has Mankind turned its back on the Demons, once known as the gods of olde, but the passing centuries gave rise to arrogant individuals and societies which believed that they could control and use these entities for magickal slave labour.  
I have worked with Demons, especially the Goetic Spirits, who refused to work alongside the Christian pantheon.  It was not because these Demons fundamentally opposed Christ and Yahweh, but because it was by these names that They have been repeatedly assailed and degraded by magicians who believed that Demons were inferior to God and to themselves.  Therefore it is so very important to uphold your oath should you devote yourself to a Demon—it is difficult enough to gain Its trust, much less have It openly invite you to partake of Its wisdom.
Although Satan is generally much more lenient, it goes without saying that He (and any deity) should never be offered a service only to have it withdrawn.  Keep in mind that Otherworldly beings do not have the same concepts of time and space as do we—it is important to be clear with such beings exactly what it is that they can expect from you.  If you can spare only an hour per week in your devotionals, make certain that you are upfront with your Patron or Matron about this from the beginning.  I am not insinuating that we are not allowed to slip up from time to time or that we are expected to give our entire lives over to the Divine, but it must be remembered that deities are not tools at our disposal—they are intelligent, sentient beings who expect you to contribute to the relationship in the same way that an employer expects you to show up to work on time each day.
I believe that it makes sense to allow oneself time to think when it comes to dedicating oneself to a deity.  Some suggest that one should wait for three months before doing so—I believe that this is not out of the question as it gives the individual time to decide exactly what he or she is and is not capable of giving and doing to maintain a lifelong commitment to another entity.  This “waiting period” is also beneficial in that it serves a means to weed out those who are simply experiencing a phase or fascination with a particular deity and those who are sincere in their devotion.  
For some Demonolatry sects, specifically the OFS, dedication to a Patron or Matron Demon can include what some may describe as acts of self-mutilation—however, these acts usually consist of simply tattooing, cutting or branding the sigil or seal of a particular Demon into the flesh of the consenting adult devotee.  The devotee always has a choice—there should never be an assumption that Satanic or Demonolatry sects force members to participate in acts which violate their own personal moral codes or sense of safety.  
Many individuals choose to dedicate themselves to Satan during a specific Holy Day or another day which holds special significance such as the individual’s birthday.  Because I adhere to the importance of Satan’s alignment with Solar imagery, I would suggest that a self-dedication ritual (like self-initiation) be performed during daylight hours—preferably at noon.  Of course it is entirely personal as to when and where the ritual will take place, but it is a good idea to use the appropriate symbolism when planning the rite.  I have provided, for the purpose of this discussion, a simple self-dedication ritual to Satan.  Again, there are no rules which are set into stone—Satanism is a very forgiving and eclectic religion after all.
Satanic Self-Dedication Ritual (©2011 Torey B. Scott)
Materials:
  • Anointing oil (any oil blend will do, but preferably Solar or Fiery in nature)
  • Incense (again it is suggested that one use a Solar or Fiery scent)     
  • Small libation dish (for the offering)
  • Needle or diabetic lancet (for drawing a small amount of blood)
  • Offering (bread, wine or even a nice cigar)
[I recommend performing this ritual outdoors if possible.  Self-dedications need to stimulate the consciousness and remind the individual of his or her innate connection with the Natural World and the world of the Unseen.  Ideally the devotee should have a cleansing bath or shower beforehand.]
[Lay the ritual items on the ground or floor before you.  Light the incense and hold the vial of oil in one hand, allowing the other to remain free.  Mentally or orally invite Satan to join you.]
Say:
“I, (name), request your mighty company, my blessed Lord Satan.  Join me in this celebration and rejoice with me!  Salve!”
[Visualise Satan, as you imagine He would appear, joining you and standing beside you to take your hand.  Close your eyes and breathe in and out slowly, feeling the warmth of His presence grow as you focus on Him.  When you are satisfied that Satan has fully joined you, proceed with the ritual.]
Say:
“Where yesterday I walked alone, today I stand in your presence.  I offer to you these gifts in love and trust that you should know and see the sincerity in my devotion.”
[Pour the wine/place the food/light the cigar in the bowl.  Light the incense and stand back.  Turn to “Satan”, your mental image of Him as He stands next to you, and feel yourself completely encapsulated in His aura and His energy.  Imagine your own aura melding into His—becoming one with Him.  Feel the energy pulsating throughout your body.]
Say:
“I wish to know you, Great One.  I despise those who would speak ill against you, I exalt those who would join me in praise.  I offer to you my service and my allegiance this day that you may, in turn, guide me and help me to understand my destiny.  I swear to open myself to your wisdom and ask that you shape me in your image.  My word is my bond—by my blood I cement my pledge.”
[Prick your finger, just enough to attain a drop or two of blood.  Depending upon what you have place upon the libation dish, smear or drop the blood onto the item.]
“It is finished.  Hail, Satan.”
[Dab a few drops of the oil onto your right index finger and draw the inverted pentagram or the symbol of the Sun upon your brow, over the Third Eye chakra.]
[Leave the dish outdoors for the offering to be taken.  It would be a good idea to create a devotional altar especially for the purpose of prayer and meditation at this point.]
Hellfire and Brimstone
Within Satanism, especially the theistic varieties, the Element of Fire plays a significant role.  It is tempting to draw conclusions as to why this is thanks to the association of Fire with the concept of Hell and damnation.  However there are other reasons behind the attribution, specifically where Satan is concerned.  
The reason for this is primarily due to the fact that Satan is a Solar deity and is thus fundamentally associated with Fire.  Additionally, Fire is representative of many human and spiritual qualities upon which the philosophies of Satanism were built—transformation, willpower, sexuality, power, desire are all things which Satanists consider to be of profound importance.  Because the Element of Fire is such a vital component of Satanic philosophy, it is often included in most aspects of ritual as well.  The sigils or seals of Demons are often burned, especially within Demonolatry, as a means of honouring the Demon while simultaneously allowing the request of the Demonolator to be transformed into pure energy—thus rendering it more absorbable for the Demon receiving it.  Similarly, many Theistic Satanists who are not Demonolators also perform a similar ritual when calling upon Satan—they simply replace the Demonic sigil or seal with the inverted Pentagram or some other representation of Satan.
Most Satanic marriage rituals are essentially the same as those found within any other Neo-Pagan path.  For the vast majority of Theistic Satanists, the marriage rite includes such symbolism as the lighting of a unity candle or the binding of hands by means of a handfasting.  Within the OFS, locks of hair belonging to both the bride and the groom are sealed within a vial and are required components should the pair ever choose to divorce.  
Funeral rites within Satanism can vary tremendously depending upon the sect.  For most theistic varieties, cremation is preferred to burial due to the Satanic reverence for the Element of Fire and its transformative qualities.  For the rituals themselves, most spiritual Satanists choose to bless the journey of the soul of the deceased through prayer to Satan or the Demons.  Depending upon the tradition, there may or may not be a circle cast.
Within most forms of Demonolatry, all of the Elements, not only the Element of Fire, play an important role.  Many Demonolators believe that an individual’s energetic makeup can be altered, or balanced, by assimilating within oneself an equal saturation of all four Elements.  An Elemental imbalance may be corrected by working with Demons specifically possessing a particular Elemental nature.  For example, if one lacks motivation, it may be said that the individual is suffering from an Elemental imbalance in which there is a deficiency of Fire.  To remedy this deficiency, the practitioner may either use visualisation or ritual to interact with Fire Demons—the belief is that the Demon lends the energy from its Elemental essence to the practitioner, thus “curing” the imbalance.
The fact that many Satanists use their magick for good in the majority of practices may seem surprising to those of you who may have previously perceived Satanism as a religion concerned only with selfishness and negativity.  There are just as many Satanists as there are Neo-Pagans who are concerned with the betterment of humanity and who seek to help others simply because they feel that it is the right thing to do.  Rituals for blessings, healings and good fortune exist within nearly every form of Satanism to date—most often these rituals are carried out in much the same way as their Neo-Pagan counterparts are with the blessing, healing or well wishes being requested in the name of Satan.
As Satanism is a set of religions concerned primarily with the enjoyment of the human experience, it is only natural that sex and sex magick play a substantial role within its practices.  Needless to say, not all sects perform sex magick, but many do.  Satanic sex magick hardly differs at all from any other form of sex magick except that it usually includes or invokes Satan or particular Demons.  It is most commonly used for raising energy for spellwork or for focusing energy and channelling it for a particular purpose.  Unlike Wicca, Satanism does not utilise such rituals as the Great Rite as there is little if any acknowledgement of an innate divine Masculine and Feminine.  
One of the most popular practices within Satanism, especially Theistic Satanism, is the practice of blood magick or blood sacrifice.  Although the practice is most certainly not exclusive to Satanism, it is one of the most widely used forms of ritual offering.  It must be made clear that what is meant by the terms blood magick and blood sacrifice is the offering of one’s own blood, not the blood of animals or other human beings.  As I have already illustrated, most Satanists are staunchly opposed to cruelty and the needless taking of another life—therefore the use of one’s own blood is essential.  
For rites in which blood magick plays a role, it is common for a request to be made of the gods—this may mean either Satan or a particular Demon.  The request is usually written on paper and meditated upon—afterwards, the practitioner may choose to draw blood from themselves and anoint the paper with it before burning it.  By using blood in such a manner, one is essentially seen as offering to the gods a substantial amount of their own energy in exchange for the aid of the entity or entities.  Relationships between individuals and gods exist because of this exchange—through prayer and offerings, the practitioner provides their deity or deities with energy.  Using blood as an offering is one of many ways in which Satanists commune with the divine.   

I must make one final disclaimer.  None of the rituals presented within this article are inherent to Theistic Satanism.  Again, Theistic Satanism refers to a collection of religions and practices which are unique in and of themselves.  Traditions vary from person to person and from group to group.  It must also be said that, although the majority of Theistic Satanists are altruistic and level-headed individuals generally concerned with the greater good, there are also Theistic Satanists whose practices are wholly centered upon destruction, chaos and the infliction of harm.  It would be an utter untruth to state that all Satanists are “good people” or that all Satanists practice “fluffy magick”.  The purpose of this article is to enlighten those already familiar with aspects of Neo-Paganism to the similarities between some practices within certain traditions of Theistic Satanism.  

Categories
astrology black magick demonolatry demons neo-paganism

Goetic Demons Ruling The Mansions of the Moon

ALNATH (Aries) – Horns of Aries – 0’0” Aries to 12’51” Aries:
Ruling Goetic Demons: 
  
Bael, Phoenix (Aries 0 – 9);
Agares, Halphas (Aries 10 – 19)
ALBOTAYN (Aries) – Belly of Aries – 12’51” Aries to 25’42” Aries:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Agares, Halphas (Aries 10 – 19);

Vassago, Malphas (Aries 20 – 29)

ATHORAY (Taurus) – Showering of Pleiades – 25’42” Aries to 8’34” Taurus:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Vassago, Malphas (Aries 20 – 29);
Gamigin, Raum (Taurus 0 – 9)
ALDEBARAN (Taurus) – Eye of Taurus – 8’34” Taurus to 21’25” Taurus:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Gamigin, Raum (Taurus 0 – 9);
Marbas, Focalor (Taurus 10 – 19);
Valefor, Vepar (Taurus 20 – 29)
ALBACHAY (Taurus to Gemini) – Head of Orion – 21’25” Taurus to 4’17” Gemini:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Valefor, Vepar (Taurus 20 – 29)
Amon, Sabnock (Gemini 0 – 9)
ALCHAYA (Gemini) – Little Star of Great Light – 4’17” Gemini to 17’8” Gemini:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Amon, Sabnock (Gemini 0 – 9);
Barbatos, Shax (Gemini 10 – 19)
ALARZACH (Gemini to Cancer) – Arm of Gemini – 17’8” Gemini to 0’0” Cancer:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Barbatos, Shax (Gemini 10 – 19);
Paimon, Vine (Gemini 20 – 29);
Buer, Bifrons (Cancer 0 – 9)
ALNAZA (Cancer) – Misty Clouds – 0’0” Cancer to 12’51” Cancer:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Buer, Bifrons (Cancer 0 – 9);
Gusion, Vuall (Cancer 10 – 19)
ARCAPH (Cancer) – Eye of the Lion – 12’51” Cancer to 25’42” Cancer:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Gusion, Vuall (Cancer 10 – 19);
Sitri, Haagenti (Cancer 20 – 29)
ALGEBH (Leo) – Forehead of the Lion – 25’42” Cancer to 8’34” Leo:
Ruling Goetic Demons: 
Sitri, Haagenti (Cancer 20 – 29);
Beleth, Crocell (Leo 0 – 9)
AZOBRA (Leo) – Mane of the Lion – 8’34” Leo to 21’25” Leo:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Beleth, Crocell (Leo 0 – 9);
Leraje, Furcas (Leo 10 – 19);
Eligos, Balaam (Leo 20 – 29)
ALZARPHA (Leo) – Tail of the Lion – 21’25” Leo to 4’17” Virgo:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Eligos, Balaam (Leo 20 – 29);
Zepar, Alloces (Virgo 0 – 9)
ALHAIRE (Virgo) – Wings of Virgo – 4’17” Virgo to 17’8” Virgo:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Zepar, Alloces (Virgo 0 – 9);
Botis, Caim (Virgo 10 – 19)
AZIMETH (Virgo) – Flying Spike – 17’8” Virgo to 0’0” Libra:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Botis, Caim (Virgo 10 – 19);
Bathim, Murmur (Virgo 20 – 29);
Salleos, Orobas (Libra 0 – 9)
AGRAPHA (Libra) – Covered (Covered Flying) – 0’0” Libra to 12’51” Libra:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Salleos, Orobas (Libra 0 – 9);
Purson, Gremory (Libra 10 – 19)
AZUBENE (Libra) – Horns of Scorpio – 12’51” Libra to 25’42” Libra:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Purson, Gremory (Libra 10 – 19);
Marax, Ose (Libra 20 – 29)
ALCHIL (Scorpio) – Crown of Scorpio – 25’42” Libra to 8’34” Scorpio:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Marax, Ose (Libra 20 – 29);
Ipos, Auns (Scorpio 0 – 9)
ALCAB (Scorpio) – Heart of Scorpio – 8’34” Scorpio to 21’25” Scorpio:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Ipos, Auns (Scorpio 0 – 9);
Aim, Orias (Scorpio 10 – 19);
Naberius, Vapula (Scorpio 20 – 29)
AXAULAH (Sagittarius) – Tail of Scorpio – 21’25” Scorpio to 4’17” Sagittarius:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Naberius, Vapula (Scorpio 20 – 29);
Glasya-Labolas, Zagan (Sagittarius 0 – 9)
ABNAHAYA (Sagittarius) – Beam – 4’17” Sagittarius to 17’8” Sagittarius:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Glasya-Labolas, Zagan (Sagittarius 0 – 9);
Bime, Valac (Sagittarius 10 – 19)
ALBELDA (Capricorn) – Defeat – 17’8” Sagittarius to 0’0” Capricorn:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Bime, Valac (Sagittarius 10 – 19);
Ronove, Andras (Sagittarius 20 – 29);
Berith, Haures (Capricorn 0 – 9)
ZODEBOLUCH (Capricorn) – A Pastor – 0’0” Capricorn to 12’51” Capricorn:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Berith, Haures (Capricorn 0 – 9);
Astaroth, Andrealphus (Capricorn 10 – 19)
ZABADOLA (Capricorn) – Swallowing – 12’51” Capricorn to 25’42” Capricorn:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Astaroth, Andrealphus (Capricorn 10 – 19);
Forneus, Cimejes (Capricorn 20 – 29)
SADABATH (Aquarius) – Star of Fortune – 25’42” Capricorn to 8’34” Aquarius:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Forneus, Cimejes (Capricorn 20 – 29);
Foras, Amdusias (Aquarius 0 – 9)
SADALAHBIA (Aquarius) – A Butterfly – 8’34” Aquarius to 21’25” Aquarius:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Foras, Amdusias (Aquarius 0 – 9);
Asmodeus, Belial (Aquarius 10 – 19);
Gaap, Decarabia (Aquarius 20 – 29)
ALPHARG (Pisces) – Spout of the Urn – 21’25 Aquarius to 4’17” Pisces:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Gaap, Decarabia (Aquarius 20 – 29);
Furfur, Seere (Pisces 0 – 9)
ALCHARYA (Pisces) – Lip of the Urn – 4’17” Pisces to 17’8” Pisces:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Furfur, Seere (Pisces 0 – 9);
Marchosias, Dantalion (Pisces 10 – 19)
ALBOTHAM (Aries) – Belly of the Fish – 17’8” Pisces to 0’0” Aries:
Ruling Goetic Demons:  
Marchosias, Dantalion (Pisces 10 – 19);
Stolas, Andromalius (Pisces 20 – 29);
Baal, Phoenix (Aries 0 – 9)
Categories
agares black magick clavicula salomonis demonolatry demons evocation fallen angels goetia lemegeton lesser key of solomon sorcery

What Are The Goetia?

Introduction To The Goetia
 

For those of you unfamiliar with the famous 17-Century Grimoire, The Lesser Key of Solomon or Clavicula Salomonis Regis, the word “Goetia” may seem very alien and unfamiliar. The word itself is derived from the Greek word for sorcery. In The Lesser Key of Solomon, the reader is introduced to seventy-two Spirits, more commonly referred to as Demons, which were supposedly summoned via evocation magick and confined to a brass vessel by the legendary figure of King Solomon himself. According to the legend, the brass vessel was cast into a river, but was broken open erroneously by treasure-seekers, releasing the Demons trapped within. Quite simply, “Goetia” has become an all-encompassing term for the seventy-two Demons cataloged within the Grimoire of The Lesser Key of Solomon.

The Goetia are classified according to Their ranks in “Hell”. There are as follows:

  • 9 Kings
  • 23 Dukes
  • 7 Princes and Prelates
  • 15 Marquises
  • 14 Presidents
  • 10 Earls
  • 1 Knight

*Some of the Goetia possess two ranks, such as Earl and President.

Along with Their ranks, each Demon’s corresponding seal or sigil is provided.

Goetic Magick & Ceremonial Evocation

Now that I have introduced you to what the Goetia are, I will introduce you to who They are.

Each Demon is described in the Grimoire as it supposedly manifests Itself to the conjurer. However, it should be noted that some of Them never manifest in such a way or, alternately, manifest as something completely different. By “manifest”, I do not mean that They appear in a cloud of smoke before the conjurer, but that this is the form which They may or may not choose to present Themselves as by means of visualization, dream or Otherwordly journey.

Each Demon is also described as possessing the power to aid the Magician in certain tasks such as finding treasure or in matters of love. Of course, as The Lesser Key of Solomon was a 17th-Century Grimoire (and drawing much of its information from even more antiquated sources), many of the powers of the Demons are obviously rather dated. During the time that much of the information was compiled, Man was only just learning the intricacies of Science such as Astrology and Astronomy. A common learned man would have studied these Sciences along with other forms of Art and Writing and Arithmetic. “Buried treasure” was quite a real concept during the days of old, and you may notice a propensity for many of the Demons to possess the abilities to aid the Magician in tasks related to such.

In modern-day Demonolatry (the worship of Demons), the Goetia are worked with in much the same manner as many Gods and Goddesses of various cultural pantheons are worked with by Neo-Pagans. For instance, if the Magician wished to counterbalance a tendency within himself to be too passive, he would be wise to select a Demon associated with battle, aggression and action such as Marchosias to work with. Likewise, if one wished to enhance his understanding of science, he would be wise to select any of the Demons who specialize in teaching the sciences.

However, Demons are not to be approached with naivety. Like any being of Spirit, They are unpredictable and Their true nature is far beyond our mere mortal comprehension. They should be treated with respect and dignity at all times. Demonolators universally agree that the methods outlined in The Lesser Key of Solomon for “conjuring” the Goetia (also known as “Ceremonial Evocation”) is a sure-fire way to earn a Demon’s contempt and quickly. Some Ceremonialists work successfully with the Goetia by means of Ceremonial Evocation, but given half a chance, the Demons would likely leap at the opportunity to dish them out a little “payback”.

The point of the above paragraph is to strongly caution anyone who is inexperienced in either Ceremonial Magic or Demonolatry against working directly with Demons in absence of a mentor.

The Goetia:

The following is a listing of the seventy-two Demons of the Goetia. I have summarized their descriptions as correspondence listings to simplify the presentation and to provide ease-of-reading.

1. Bael:

Image

  • Manifests as: cat, toad, man (or all at once) with a hoarse voice
  • Rules: 66 Legions
  • Powers: Invisibility

2. Agares:

Image

  • Manifests as: Old fair man riding a crocodile holding a goshawk
  • Rules: 31 Legions
  • Powers: Spurring others into action, returning runaways to the home, languages, destruction of dignities, earthquakes

3. Vassago:

Image

  • Manifests as: NA
  • Rules: 26 Legions
  • Powers: Divination, revelations

4. Samigina (Gamigin):

Image

  • Manifests as: Small horse or ass/human with a hoarse voice
  • Rules: 30 Legions
  • Powers: Liberal sciences, Necromancy

5. Marbas:

Image

  • Manifests as: Lion/human
  • Rules: 36 Legions
  • Powers: Truth, divination, revelation, can cause and cure disease, mechanics, shape-shifting

6. Valefor:

Image

  • Manifests as: Lion with the head of a braying ass
  • Rules: 10 Legions
  • Powers: May be called upon to serve the Magician as a familiar, theft

 7. Amon:

Image

  • Manifests as: Flame-breathing wolf with a serpent’s tail; fanged raven-headed man
  • Rules: 40 Legions
  • Powers: Divination, prophecy, feuds, reconciliations

8. Barbatos:

Image

  • Manifests as: Human, accompanied by four Kings and a host of troops
  • Rules: 30 Legions
  • Powers: Understanding the languages of animals, accessing hidden and enchanted treasures, divination, reconciliations, friendships, favor with those in positions of power

*My wife is a veterinary nurse and we have often worked with Barbatos in matters regarding the health and safety of pets and animal life.  He seems to be particularly fond of all creatures of the Earth and is willing to lend His aid when possible to help a suffering animal.

9. Paimon:

Image

  • Manifests as: Man riding upon a dromedary and accompanied by a glorious host; has a great voice which roars at first meeting
  • Rules: 200 Legions
  • Powers: Arts and sciences, hidden things, He is omniscient and knows the nature of all things, dignity, power over others, familiars

10. Buer:

Image

  • Manifests as: An archer
  • Rules: 50 Legions
  • Powers: Philosophy, logic, herbalism, healing, familiars

11. Gusion:

Image

  • Manifests as: Xenopilus (strange-headed creature)
  • Rules: 40 Legions
  • Powers: Divination, problem-solving, friendships, reconciliations, honor, dignity

12. Sitri (Sitry):

Image

  • Manifests as: Leopard-headed with the wings of a Griffin; beautiful human
  • Rules: 60 Legions
  • Powers: Love, desire, lust

*Sitri came to me during Shamanic journey.  His manifestation, for me, was that of a young, thin and androgynous person with white-blonde hair and a soft voice.

13. Beleth:

Image

  • Manifests as: A frightening King surrounded by a great army with trumpets blazing
  • Rules: 85 Legions
  • Powers: Versatile

14. Leraje:

Image

  • Manifests as: Green-clad archer
  • Rules: 30 Legions
  • Powers: Battles, contests, competition, sports, arrows/archery, punctures

*Leraje approached me of His own accord with a desire to accompany a dear friend of mine and to aid her in a situation which she was struggling with at the time.  His motives were, and still are, seemingly benevolent and He has since struck up something of a friendship between Himself and my friend.  It is rare for a true Goetic Demon to act as a familiar to a human being, but it seems that Leraje is doing just this.

15. Eligos:

Image

  • Manifests as: Knight carrying a lance, ensign and a serpent
  • Rules: 60 Legions
  • Powers: Hidden things, prophecy, war, soldiers, influence and favor with those in positions of power

16. Zepar:

Image

  • Manifests as: Human, soldier wearing red
  • Rules: 26 Legions
  • Powers: Love, relationships, marriage, infertility

17. Botis:

Image

  • Manifests as: Viper; fanged and horned man carrying a sword
  • Rules: 60 Legions
  • Powers: Divination, prophecy, communication, reconciliations

*Botis worked with me a great deal in 2008 and 2009.  He is inclined towards technological devices and is fond of electronics in general.  He is also willing to work with the magician in rectifying matters regarding communication methods, especially those revolving around mobile phone or computer errors.

18. Bathin (Bathim):

Image

  • Manifests as: Strong man with a serpent’s tail sitting upon a pale horse
  • Rules: 30 Legions
  • Powers: Herbalism, stone lore, international travel

    19. Sallos (Saleos):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Gallant crowned solider riding upon a crocodile
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Love, marriage, relationships

    20. Purson:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Lion-faced man, holding a viper and riding upon a bear
    • Rules: 22 Legions
    • Powers: Hidden things, divination, prophecy, buried treasures, mediumship, possession, shape-shifting, omniscient, familiars

    21. Marax:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Bull with a man’s face
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Astronomy, liberal sciences, familiars learned in herbalism, stone lore

    22. Ipos:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Angel with a lion’s head, goose’s feet and the tail of a hare
    • Rules: 36 Legions
    • Powers: Divination, prophecy, instills qualities of humor and boldness

     23. Aim:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Man with the heads of a serpent, a man with two stars upon his brow and a calf; He rides upon a viper and carries a firebrand
    • Rules: 26 Legions
    • Powers: Arson, instills qualities of humor, revelations

    24. Naberius:

    Image

    • Manifests as: A black crane speaking with a hoarse voice
    • Rules: 19 Legions
    • Powers: Arts, sciences, rhetoric, restores dignity and honor

    25. Glasya-Labolas (Caarcrinolas):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Dog with the wings of a Griffin
    • Rules: 36 Legions
    • Powers: Arts, sciences, cursing, bloodshed, manslaughter, divination, prophecy, reonciliations, love, friendship, invisibility

    *Glasya-Labolas is my personal Guardian.  He has been with me since I first began my journey and was the third Demon to appear to me.  He manifests in my work with Him as a large, black Doberman-like canine.  His wings are not evident from my experience, but they may be simply obscured.  My offerings to Him are physical and emotional suffering (my own); this was pre-arranged and was a specific request from Him.  He benefits from the unique energetic signature of the emotion behind physical and emotional pain.  There is not necessarily malevolent motivations in His desire for this exchange of energy, but rather it is simply a need of His which I have agreed to meet so long as He fulfills His purposes for my needs and as long as His requests for energy are within reason.

    26. Bune (Bime):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Dragon with the heads of a dog, a Griffin and a man
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Necromancy, riches, wisdom, eloquence, truth, answers

    27. Ronove (Ronwe):

    Image

    • Manifests as: A monster
    • Rules: 19 Legions
    • Powers: Rhetoric, knowledge, book-learning, familiars, languages, favors from friends and those in positions of power

    *Ronove, amongst most Demonolators, is regarded as the Demon of Knowledge and Intellect.  He is often seen as a muse-like figure and delights in the intricacies of the written word.  

    28. Berith:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Solider dressed in all-red clothing and adorned with a golden crown, sitting upon a red horse
    • Rules: 26 Legions
    • Powers: Truth, divination, prophecy, dignities, lies

    29. Astaroth:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Angel riding upon an infernal beast and carrying a viper in His left hand
    • Rules: 40 Legions
    • Powers: Secrets, divination, prophecy, revelation, truth, knowledge of other Demons, liberal sciences

    *Astaroth is commonly viewed as being identical to the goddess, Astarte, even though He is depicted within most Demonological texts as being male in gender.  This is potentially due to the fact that Demons are innately genderless and instead possess a mixture of “male” and “female” energies.  This explains why They often manifest as somewhat androgynous human beings.

    30. Forneus:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Sea monster
    • Rules: 29 Legions
    • Powers: Rhetoric, good reputations, languages, amicability, friendships, popularity

    31. Foras:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Strong man
    • Rules: 29 Legions
    • Powers: Logic, ethics, invisibility, longevity, wealth, treasures, the recovery of lost items

    32. Asmoday (Asmodeus):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Fire-breathing man with the heads of a bull, ram and man with the tail of a serpent and webbed feet; rides upon a dragon and holds a lance and a banner
    • Rules: 72 Legions
    • Powers: Arithmetic, Astronomy, lust, Geometry, handicrafts, truth, invincibility, treasures, wealth

    *Asmodeus is the Demon of sexuality.  In the many conversations I have had with other Demonolators who have worked with Him, He is almost always deeply concerned with all aspects of human sexuality and requires libation of sexual energy.  

    33. Gaap:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Man in the role of a guide, leading four Kings
    • Rules: 66 Legions
    • Powers: Insensibility, ignorance, philosophy, liberal sciences, love, hatred, consecrations in the name of Amaymon, theft of familiars form other Magicians, truth, divination, prophecy, travel

    34. Furfur:

    Image

    • Manifests as: A hart with a fiery tail; angel with a hoarse voice
    • Rules: 26 Legions
    • Powers: Deception, love, desire, attraction, lightning and thunder, storms, truth

    35. Marchosias:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Fire-breathing wolf with the wings of a Griffin and the tail of a serpent; human
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Strength, will, courage, battle

    36. Stolas:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Raven; human
    • Rules: 26 Legions
    • Powers: Astronomy, herbalism, stone lore

    37. Phenex (Phoenix):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Phoenix with the voice of a child
    • Rules: 20 Legions
    • Powers: Sciences, poetry, favors

    38. Halphas:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Stock dove with a hoarse voice
    • Rules: 26 Legions
    • Powers: War, weaponry, armory, fortresses

    *Halphas and Malphas are sometimes considered to be brothers or otherwise kin.  

    39. Malphas:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Crow; human
    • Rules: 40 Legions
    • Powers: Houses, towers, glimpses into the enemy’s plan, familiars

    40. Raum:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Crow; human
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Theft (especially of treasures), destruction, divination, prophecy, love, friendship, reconciliations

    41. Focalor:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Man with the wings of a Griffin
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Bloodshed, murder, drowning, shipwrecks, winds, seas, tempests

    42. Vepar:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Mermaid
    • Rules: 29 Legions
    • Powers: Water, oceans, seas, guiding of ships, tempests

    43. Sabnock (Sabnach):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Solider with the head of a Lion and riding upon a pale horse
    • Rules: 50 Legions
    • Powers: Building of fortresses and cities, familiars

    44. Shax:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Stock dove with a hoarse and subtle voice
    • Rules: 30 Legions
    • Powers: Loss of vision, hearing and understanding, theft, errands, favors, hidden things, revelations, familiars

    45. Vine:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Lion riding upon a black horse and carrying a viper in His hand
    • Rules: 36 Legions
    • Powers: Hidden things, revelations, prophecy, structures, tempests

    46. Bifrons:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Monster; man
    • Rules: 6 Legions
    • Powers: Arts, sciences, Astrology, Geometry, stone lore, wood lore, herbalism, corpse-lights, grave-robbing

    *Bifrons is a Demon of Necromancy and acts as something akin to a Psychopomp.  He is a protector and guardian of the physical remains of the deceased and can assist the magician in work associated with ancestor reverence.

    47. Uvall (Vual):

    Image

    • Manifests as: Dromedary; human (speaks some Egyptian)
    • Rules: 37 Legions
    • Powers: Female attraction and love, divination, prophecy, friendship, reconciliations

    48. Haagenti:

    Image

    • Manifests as: Bull with the wings of a Griffin; human
    • Rules: 33 Legions
    • Powers: Wisdom, alchemy, shape-shifting

    *Those familiar with the Mesopotamian depiction of the Lamassu will recognise a familiar theophany in Haagenti.  The Lamassu were supposedly powerful guardian Spirits with the bodies of bulls, wings of eagles and a human or human-like head.  

      49. Crocell:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Angel
      • Rules: 48 Legions
      • Powers: Hidden things, Geometry, liberal sciences, auditory hallucinations, warm waters, natural baths and springs

      50. Furcas:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Old long-bearded white-haired man riding upon a pale horse and wielding a sharp weapon
      • Rules: 20 Legions
      • Powers: Philosophy, Astrology, rhetoric, logic, Cheiromancy, Pyromancy, divination, prophecy

      51. Balam (Balaam):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Man with the heads of a man, a ram and a bull with the tail of a serpent; rides upon a bear and carries a goshawk
      • Rules: 40 Legions
      • Powers: Invisibility, divination, prophecy, instills qualities of humor

      *It is rather obvious that there is a similarity between the Demon, Balam, and the Biblical figure of Balaam the diviner.   According to archaeologists, the historical figure of Balaam was a devotee of the goddess, Ashtar – associated with the other Goetic Demon, Astaroth.  It is unclear if the Demon, Balam, is the ascended Spirit of the historical Balaam or a true Demonic entity with no relationship to the former at all.

      52. Alloces (Allocer):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Red, lion-faced soldier with flaming eyes riding upon a great horse
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers: Astronomy, liberal sciences, familiars

      53. Camio (Caim):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Thrush; man carrying a sword
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers:Dispute, debate, understanding of the languages of animals and the waters, truth, prophecy

      54. Murmur:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Crowned (human) warrior riding upon a Griffin, preceded by ministers and trumpets
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers: Philosophy, Necromancy

      55. Orobas:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Horse; man
      • Rules: 20 Legions
      • Powers: Divination, prophecy, dignities, favor from friends and enemies, spiritual truths, omniscient, faithfulness, loyalty, protection

      56. Gremory (Gemory):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Beautiful woman riding upon a camel
      • Rules: 26 Legions
      • Powers: Divination, prophecy, hidden treasures, female attraction and love

      57. Ose:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Leopard; man
      • Rules: 3 Legions
      • Powers: Liberal sciences, spiritual and mundane truths, shape-shifting

      58. Amy (Auns):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Blazing fire; human
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers: Astrology, Liberal Sciences, treasures, wealth, familiars

      59. Oriax (Orias):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Lion riding upon a serpent-tailed horse, holding two hissing serpents in His right hand
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers: Astrology, transformation, change, shape-shifting, dignities and honors, promotions, favor from those in positions of power

      60. Vapula:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Lion with the wings of a Griffin
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers: Handicrafts, employment, professions, Philosophy, sciences

      61. Zagan:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Bull with the wings of a Griffin; human
      • Rules: 33 Legions
      • Powers: Instills qualities of humor, transformation, shape-shifting, Alchemy, wisdom

      *Zagan, like Haagenti, is depicted as manifesting in a theophany very similar to that of the Mesopotamian “Demon” referred to as a Lamassu.  

      62. Volac:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Child with the wings of an angel, riding upon a two-headed dragon
      • Rules: 38 Legions
      • Powers: Serpents, snakes, truth, treasures, wealth

      63. Andras:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Raven-headed angel, riding upon a black wolf and bearing a sword
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers: Discord, quarrels, arguments, resentment, feuds

      64. Haures (Flauros):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Leopard; human with fiery eyes
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers:Truth, omniscient, divination, prophecy, spiritual truths, lies, deceit, destruction, revenge, retribution, loyalty, protection

      65. Andrealphus:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Peacock; human
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers:Geometry, Astronomy, shape-shifting, birds

      66. Cimejes (Cimeies):

      Image

      • Manifests as: Valiant (human) warrior, riding upon a black horse
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers: All things relating to Africa, grammar, logic, rhetoric, discovery of lost items, treasures

      67. Amdusias:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Unicorn; human
      • Rules: 29 Legions
      • Powers: Environmental (especially concerning trees) manipulation, auditory hallucinations, revenge, destruction, familiars

      68. Belial:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Two angels, seated within a chariot of fire
      • Rules: 80 Legions
      • Powers: Promotions, titles and honors, government, favor from those in positions of power, reconciliations, friendships, good reputations, familiars

      *I received my one and only familiar, Maguith, from Belial.  

      69. Decarabia:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Pentacle; human
      • Rules: 30 Legions
      • Powers: Birds, precious stones, visual hallucinations, flocks of birds

      70. Seere:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Beautiful man, riding upon a winged horse
      • Rules: 0 Legions
      • Powers: Abundance, travel, divination, theft, hidden treasure, compliance, relocation

      71. Dantalion:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Man with shifting faces, holding a book in His right hand
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers:Secrets, glimpses into an enemy’s plan, deceit, lies, arts, sciences, mind-reading, persuasion, love, doppelgangers, illusions, shape-shifting, teleportation

      72. Andromalius:

      Image

      • Manifests as: Man holding a serpent in His hand
      • Rules: 36 Legions
      • Powers:Theft and the holding of a thief accountable for his crime, return of stolen property, uncovering of shady-dealings and wickedness in people, punishing of criminals and wrong-doers, revenge, justice, vigilantism, treasures, wealth

      You may notice that many of the Demons ‘manifest’ in almost identical forms in some cases. Why this is the case is speculative at best. It may be because the Demons manifested Themselves to the observers in forms which meshed well with the popular ideas of the time-period (such as Griffins and other mythological beasts) or it may be that the Demons never manifested in these forms at all and that these ‘descriptions’ were nothing more than inventions of the writer(s) of the various Grimoires.

      However, it should be noted that many people have experienced the Goetic Demons in some of these forms, so, again, much of this is truly a mystery.

      Categories
      black magick demonolatry demons kabbalah kelipot klippoth magick qliphoth ritual satanism sorcery

      An Introduction to Qliphothic Sorcery

      Originally published 23 May 2012. © Torey B. Scott

      Understanding The Qliphoth

      Most practitioners familiar with Left-Hand Paths will most assuredly have been exposed to the concept of the Qliphoth. Like Kabbalah itself, the Qliphoth have often played a central role in many of the practices of Occultists and Ceremonial Magicians. The Qliphoth Itself, if it can even be justly referred to as one ‘thing’, can be a confounding topic and for this reason many new to Ceremonial practices are rather keen to avoid It altogether. However it must be understood that the Qliphoth can mean many different things depending upon context and the inclinations of the Magician.

      It would be impossible to discuss the Qliphoth without also including Kabbalah as a whole. If you are not familiar with the basic concepts behind Kabbalah, I suggest that you consider undertaking Magicka School’s exceptional course, “Introduction to the Magician’s Kabbalah” by Marcus Katz. Additionally, there are specialised forums within the boards which deal exclusively with discussions pertaining to the Kabbalah. Further information can be sought online or through books such as my personal favourite, David Ariel’s Kabbalah: The Mystic Quest in Judaism.

      To understand the Qliphoth is to first understand the Kabbalah. The problem with this arises due to the numerous interpretations of what the Kabbalah and the Tree of Life actually are. There are many variations of Kabbalistic study—one of the most popular within the magickal community is commonly referred to as the Esoteric Kabbalah. Within some magickal circles, the Esoteric Kabbalah is less favoured in comparison with the other traditional interpretations of the Kabbalah and aspects of Jewish mysticism such as Merkabah. Because of these differences in interpretations, there is rarely little consensus within Occultism as to exactly what the Qliphoth is, how It originated and what It means to the magician.

      There are several accounts of how the Qliphoth originated. Some portray the Qliphoth as the ‘shells’ or ‘husks’ of God’s first aborted attempt at creation. In this account, the Qliphoth is the realm of dark energies which some consider to be evil or demonic in nature. In other accounts, the Qliphoth are the ‘reflection’ of the Sephiroth upon the waters of the Abyss. Still others consider the Qliphoth to be the nightime or reverse side of the Tree of Life, opposite but still connected to the realm of Light by Da’ath. In most of these accounts however a common theme is present—the Qliphoth is essentially the ‘dark half’ of the Tree of Life, sometimes referred to as the Tree of Death.

      While such a generalisation is by far an inaccurate and unjust summation of the Qliphoth, it is a viable introduction to the concept of the polarity which exists between the Qliphoth and the Sephiroth. The Tree of Life consists of ten ‘emanations’ or ‘numerations’ which are known as Sephiroth (Sephirah in the singular). Each of these numerations essentially represents a different aspect of God’s creative process. Many magicians view the Sephiroth as literal realms while others consider Them to be allegorical, comparable to states of mind. Whatever the case may be, most practitioners who choose to work with the Qliphoth regard It as a collection of the flawed or severe expressions of creation.

      The word Qliphoth, like the word Sephiroth, is plural. In the Hebrew language, Sephiroth roughly translates as ‘numerations’ whereas Qliphoth (Qliphah in the singular) translates as ‘peels’ or ‘husks’. Generally the Qliphoth is referred to as a single entity, an area of study—however the Qliphoth in the truest sense consists of ten essential ‘husks’ which mirror the ten numerations of the Tree of Life.

      Within some practices, magicians imply that the Sephiroth are present in all things and yet are removed from the earthly realm of Man. Because of the seemingly contradictory nature of Kabbalistic theory, many students are intimidated and resistant to undertaking the study of the Tree of Life. While it is visible from the aforementioned example that Kabbalistic theory can be quite complex, it is again dependent upon the individual interpretations and convictions of the individual as to what the Sephiroth, and Qliphoth, mean to that individual.

      In revisiting the concept of the Sephiroth’s presence within the world, while aspects of the Sephiroth exist within all things, all but one of the numerations are said to wholly exist beyond the realm of Man. The tenth Sephirah, Malkuth, is also known as the Shekinah—the fundamental feminine aspect of God which is alone accessible to and knowable by humanity. Malkuth is sometimes equated with the tangible world and Universe – many adherents of modern Goddess-dominated religions have equated the Shekinah with the great Goddess archetypes such as Diana, Gaia or Isis. But deeper still than the Shekinah reside the Qliphoth.

      As with the diversity found within the accounts of the creation of the Qliphoth, there is much debate pertaining to other fundamental questions surrounding Their very nature, limitations and location. Second only to the question of what the Qliphoth are is the question of where They reside. In some depictions, the Qliphoth are said to reside ‘behind’ the Tree of Life, directly ‘below’ it or ‘below and behind’ it. Regardless, many accounts of the Qliphoth depict Them as residing amongst us, within the world of Assiyah, the earthly realm itself and, in some ways, within the Shekinah.

      Within a polarised perspective, the Qliphoth may then be assumed to encompass all of the negativity and evildoing of this world. While this may be a very appealing and simple explanation of the Qliphoth for some, it is not entirely accurate. The Sephirah of Geburah would in fact better fit such a description as It, not the Qliphoth, is the unrestrained element of God’s severity.

      What then, one may ask, is the Qliphoth and how would understanding such forces contribute to magickal practice? Depending upon what one’s personal interpretation of the Qliphoth is, there is great potential in working with Qliphothic forces within the context of magick. Generally, many practitioners of Left-Hand Paths consider the Qliphoth to be something comparable to the ‘Satanists’ Tree of Life’. This is a very inaccurate description of the Qliphoth as it is not simply a Tree of Life for Satanists, but a container of forces which encapsulate the potential for destruction on many levels. However, Qliphothic sorcery – like aspects of any powerful magickal system, path or practice – is not intended for the casual dabbler.

      Why would anyone endeavour to work with such destructive forces? Like anything within the Universe, the Qliphoth not only has the potential to destroy but also to create. While the emanative process of the Sephiroth does not function in the same manner, the Qliphoth have been employed by practitioners of many different magickal systems with favourable results. For some practitioners who are inclined towards psychological allegory within magick, the Qliphoth represent the negative states of existence. Some view the Qliphoth in a similar manner as one would view an astronomical Black Hole – perpetually drawing into Itself the Universe surrounding It.

      If we were to indeed view the Qliphoth as the “anti-Sephiroth”, it would be marginally feasible that this “drawing into” aspect of Its Nature could be utilised for constructive ends. An example would be to examine each Qliphah and Its unique signature in order to harness the particular “artery” in concordance with the task at hand – for example, if one wished to counter his or her feelings of inner conflict over a decision, the artery of Thaumiel could be focused upon the aspect of his or her life in need of reparation. In this context, the individual arteries of the Qliphoth could be analogised as vacuums, drawing out accumulated energies which are no longer beneficial to the individual. This use of Qliphothic magick, however, is less akin to sorcery than it is to self-examination and self-cleansing. The Qliphoth can also be utilised for projective magick.

      Some practitioners of Qliphothic Sorcery ascertain that the Qliphoth Themselves are inherently receptive – that is, as aforementioned, it is believed that the Tree of Death only draws Into Itself and therefore does not project Itself into the Universe. However, within the context of Judaic Kabbalism, this is not the case as it is believed that the Qliphoth are ever-influencing the world of Man – that it is Man, not the Qliphoth, which draws the Peels unto Himself. If this is the case, then utilising Qliphothic energies for projective magick can be rather straightforward – the invocation of a particular Qliphah may be sufficient. However, many magicians who believe that the Qliphoth are wholly receptive also believe that the key to utilising Qliphothic energy within the context of projective magick is not the Qliphoth Themselves, but the entities who govern Them. In the next article, we will explore some of the entities aligned with the Qliphoth and Their functions within.

      Categories
      black magick black mass demonolatry holy days left hand path magick ritual satanism

      Satanic Rites & Rites of Demonolatry: Introduction

      Originally published 20 October 2008.  © Torey B. Scott

      In this article, I would like to take a moment to introduce you to a few of the rites observed by Satanists and Demonolators.

      Holiday Rites

      Just as in Wicca (and many other Neo-Pagan paths), Theistic Satanists and Demonolators often observe and honour the changing seasons and the changing aspects and months of dominion of Satan and the Demonic Divine throughout the course of the year.

      Though there are many sects within Theistic Satanism, I will approach the subject of Holiday Rites from common Demonolatry and Satanic Sabbats perspectives.

      Holiday Rites of Demonolatry

      Within Demonolatry, holidays are observed, just as in Wicca, during the seasonal equinoxes, as well as other significant days of the year. During these times, we honour the Demons who preside over each aspect of life, death, destruction, healing, fertility and rebirth.

      First Rite To Lucifer:

      • Date: March 21st
      • Purpose(s): The first of two Rites To Lucifer, this is the Elemental Rite to the Element of Air (Lucifer is one of the Elemental Demons and the ruler of Air). Celebration of new beginnings, enlightenment and wisdom, as well as the arrival of Spring
      • A Time For: Marriages and Handfastings

      First Rite To Belphegore:

      • Date: March 31st
      • Purpose(s): New beginnings, shedding of old burdens and worries, the arrival of Spring, earthly and mundane requests
      • A Time For: Feasts, looking for a new job or career, starting anew

      Second Rite To Belphegore:

      • Date: April 9th
      • Purpose(s): (See above) The second of three Rites To Belphegore, honouring the Earth’s renewal and the arrival of Spring

      First Rite To Leviathan:

      • Date: April 30th OR May 2nd
      • Purpose(s): A celebration of the cycle of life and the ebb and flow of the emotions. The first of two Rites To Leviathan
      • A Time For: Initiations, marriages, conceiving children

      Third Rite To Belphegore:

      • Date: May 13th
      • Purpose(s): (See First Rite To Belphegore) The third of three Rites To Belphegore, honouring the Earth’s renewal and the arrival of Spring

      Rite To Flereous:

      • Date: June 21st OR June 22nd
      • Purpose(s): The celebration of the arrival of Summer and the reign of the Sun. Flereous is represented by the image of the Phoenix. This is also an Elemental Rite to the Element of Fire (as Flereous is one of the Elemental Demons)
      • A Time For: Baphometic Fire Baptisms

      Second Rite To Leviathan:

      • Date: September 21st
      • Purpose(s): The second of two Rites To Leviathan. This rite celebrates the Element of Water (as Leviathan is one of the Elemental Demons) and the Autumnal Equinox, symbolized by the gathering of the harvest.
      • A Time For: Renewals of wedding vows, divinations

      Rite To Eurynomous, Baalberith & Babael:

      • Date: October 31st
      • Purpose(s): This is a celebration and honouring of the Demons of Death.
      • A Time For: Remembrance and honouring those whom have passed away, cursing and hexing rites, renewals and cleansings, remembering one’s own mortality

      Second Rite To Lucifer:

      • Date: Mid-November
      • Purposes: (See First Rite To Lucifer) This is a continuation of the Rite To Lucifer in which magick involving enlightenment, wisdom, learning and the acknowledgment of the Element of Air take place.
      • A Time For: All magick and requests involving knowledge, enlightenment and the Element of Air.

      Rite To Belial:

      • Date: December 21st or December 22nd
      • Purpose(s): A celebration of the re-emergence of the Sun from its Wintery veil. This is also an Elemental Rite to the Element of Earth (as Belial is one of the Elemental Demons). This is a time to enjoy one’s material existence and to be thankful for friends and family and for the good things in one’s life.
      • A Time For: Initiations, thanksgiving, business/material ventures

      In addition to these holiday rites, there are Principal Rites and the Rites of the Patron (or Matron) Demon which are dependent upon the individual practice and observances of the Demonolator. The Demons of the Goetia, for instance, have Their own days of the year assigned to Them, and, thus, would be acknowledged and honoured during these dates. A few examples of Goetic Holidays are:

      • March 21st or March 22nd: Rites To Seere and Ipos
      • May 2nd: Rite To Valefor
      • June 21st or June 22nd:  Rites To Botis and Gamigin
      • September 21st: Rites To Botis and Zepar
      • October 31st: Rite To Glasya-Labolas
      • December 21st or December 22nd: Rites To Seere and Sabnock

      Satanic Sabbats

      Some practitioners of Theistic Satanism (such as those followers of the JoS Ministry) observe “Satanic Sabbats”, which are, just as the term refers to, observances of the various cycles of the seasons throughout the duration of the year.
      Amongst some Theistic Satanists who observe them, the Sabbats essentially celebrate the same aspects of natural earthly cycles as is done in Wicca – the only real difference is that Satan, not the God and Goddess, is honoured in His many aspects

      Hallowmas or Samhain:

      • Date: October 31st
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Earth
      • Descriptive Title: Dominant Darkness

      Yule:

      • Date: December 21st or December 22nd
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Earth
      • Descriptive Title: Birth of The Sun

      Candlemas:

      • Date: February 2nd
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Air
      • Descriptive Title: Awakening of The Light

      Spring Equinox:

      • Date: Around March 21st
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Air
      • Descriptive Title: Light Increasing

      Beltane:

      • Date: Around May 2nd
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Air
      • Descriptive Title: Dominant Light

      Summer Solstice:

      • Date: June 21st or June 22nd
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Satan (Lord of Fire)
      • Descriptive Title: Peak of Light

      Lammas:

      • Date: Around August 1st
      • Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Satan (Lord of Fire)
      • Descriptive Title: Awakening of Darkness

      Fall Equinox:

      Date: September 21st
      Aspect(s) of Satan: Spiritus; Lord of Water
      Descriptive Title: Dark Increasing

      Concerning The Black Mass & Rites of Blasphemy

      Almost universally, nothing evokes more fear than the term, “Black Mass”. During the so-called “Burning Times”, many a “witch” was accused of partaking in these “Black Masses” in which she or he would engage in mockeries of the crucifixion, immoral sexual acts and even intercourse with The Devil. In modern times, “Black Masses” have been connected to the rashes of hysteria behind countless incidences of “Satanic crimes” and supposed cases of “ritual abuse”.

      But this leads to the question, “are Black Masses real?”. The answer is simply, “yes, they are”.

      To some, this knowledge may come as a disappointment. So many people have dismissed Black Masses as the inventions of witch-hunters and frightened parents. The truth is that the Black Mass is not what most people imagine it to be.

      Anton Szandor LaVey, the founder of The Church of Satan, devised his so-called “Black Mass” from earlier sources*. Additionally, many modern Theistic and Symbolic (LaVeyan) Satanists have created their own versions of Black Masses.

      *LaVey’s Black Mass contains many erroneous Latin phrases

      What Happens During A Black Mass?

      Essentially, nothing happens. An authentic Black Mass is merely a parody of the Catholic Mass. According to LaVey, the purpose of The Black Mass is “psychodrama”. The Mass itself is, at least to the Theistic Satanist, one of many “Rites of Blasphemy” which are designed to facilitate a psychological change instead of a literal physical or magickal change. Rites of Blasphemy use the psychological effects of partaking in “the taboo” as a means of solidifying one’s own personal power.

      The Purpose of Rites of Blasphemy

      Most of us were raised by Christian parents or otherwise exposed to the concepts of Christianity from a very early age. One of the hallmarks of Christian conditioning is to instill a distinct sense of fear into the person with the promise of “Hell” and eternal damnation. By overcoming the fear associated with directly blaspheming the Christian God, one overcomes the oppression of his past and sheds the yoke of negative conditioning imposed upon him by a lifetime of exposure to Christian “threats” and fears of eternal damnation.

      The only danger of performing a Rite of Blasphemy is psychological distress and, possibly, nervous breakdown. The reasons are that some people are so heavily and subconsciously conditioned by the fears of Hell and damnation (even if they don’t actively believe in “God” at all) that they actually cannot withstand the mental effects of blaspheming the Christian God in ritual form. The rite is designed to instill a sense of personal power and to overcome such fears, but the individual must be as near to one hundred percent divorced emotionally, psychologically and spiritually from the Christian God as is at all possible before attempting a Rite of Blasphemy.

      Besides the Black Mass, there are also other specific Rites of Blasphemy such as the Renunciation of the Trinity and the rite in which one recites The Lord’s Prayer in reverse. These rites also have the same purpose and function as the Black Mass in that they are designed to deliberately counteract psychological conditioning by years of fear and oppression instilled into the individual by Christian upbringing and/or exposure.

      It should also be noted that not ALL Satanists perform Black Masses or Rites of Blasphemy for personal reasons. This is absolutely acceptable and is entirely the choice of the individual. Black Masses are not for every Satanist, just as some aspects of Wicca are not for every Wiccan.

      The Morally-Sound Satanist

      By performing the aforesaid Rites of Blasphemy, one may or may not choose to do so in an attempt to solidify his or her devotion to Satan. This is acceptable and encouraged, however, the being receiving the greatest benefit is the individual themselves, not Satan. There is no requirement to perform any such rite in order to pledge one’s allegiance to Satan – as I have mentioned earlier, the choice is entirely personal.

      However, some people, especially young people, feel that they should take acts of Blasphemy one step further and, thus, partake in criminal activity such as vandalizing churches and places of worship or insulting and pranking Christian ministers and clery men and women. This is NOT a responsible Satanist. Though Satanists believe in the power and recognition of the power of the Self, the Individual, Satanists are also ethically and socially responsible individuals. By contributing to society and playing one’s part in the structure of human community, we are, likewise, contributing to the prosperity of Mankind on a much larger level.

      The money that we put into Social Security, for example, will be the money that we may rely upon to sustain ourselves and our families in the future. The harmonious relationship we maintain with our neighbor, the church Deacon, may one day reward us with his lovely daughter marrying our son – and it’s probably a darn good thing that we all get on so well! Aside from solely benefiting ourselves, there is a certain responsibility that we have to our fellow man to lead by example and to repay kindness with kindness. By conducting ourselves in a criminal manner, we not only continue to perpetuate the false idea of Satanists being detestable delinquents, but we also jeopardize our own families and futures by destroying other families and property and by landing ourselves in a prison that our own tax-paying families are paying for.

      Other Rites & Conclusion

      Aside from Holiday Rites and Rites of Blasphemy, Demonolators and Satanists also have formal rites for weddings, baptisms, initiations, dedications, funerals and even divorces.

      The Baphometic Fire Baptism

      One such rite in Demonolatry is called “The Baphometic Fire Baptism”. In this rite, the individual is baptised to begin his or her life anew as a Demonolator in the names of Satan, the Elemental Demons and of his or her (or the Sect’s) Patron or Matron Demon. A branding iron, fashioned in the form of the Patron or Matron Demon’s sigil, is then pressed to the flesh and the sigil is then permanently branded into the skin of the Demonolator. More modernly, this practice has been abandoned for the use of a tattoo, which is just as permanent and sometimes less painful.

      Children may also be baptised, but they are not branded or harmed in any way.

      Pacts With The Devil

      Everyone is probably familiar with the notion of “selling one’s soul to The Devil”. It should be pointed out that this practice, while mostly fanciful, is modernly practiced to some degree. Satanists do not believe that Satan sits on a fiery throne amidst a pit of burning lava idly collecting human souls for His intense pleasure and amusement. Satan is not, as is no other god is, our superior. We are all equal as we are all Spirit and come from one Source. Therefore Satan has no need of our souls and we certainly can’t “sell” our souls to Him.

      However, Pacts and Rites of Allegiance act, in some ways, like Rites of Blasphemy. The effects are almost purely psychological and provide the devotee with a sense of power, purpose and self-confidence.

      Some Satanists use Rites of Allegiance as a means to dedicate themselves in a formal ritual setting to Satan or to particular Demons. Generally, if a Pact is to be made, it will be made as a literal long-term pledge of devotion to Satan and the devotee will often inscribe his pledge onto parchment and sign his or her name in blood (his own blood). Afterwards, the pledge is burned and the “pact” is sealed.

      *Information pertaining to the rites and practices of the Ordo Flammeus Serpens is taken primarily from material published within the book, “The Complete Book of Demonolatry” by S. Connolly.