Infernal Dialogues

Infernal Dialogues

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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 demonolatry demons goetia neo-paganism

Goetic Holy Days

Traditional Decanal Holy Days

There are a number of methods for deriving the Decanal Holy Days for the Goetia; however, there is little consensus on the question of whether or not the Goetic Demons may be accurately assigned to the Zodiacal Decans at all. In the following list, you will find the Decanal Holy Days as recorded in several manuscripts, especially the Book of the Black Serpent. In thac consists of 30 degrees. These are divided into three ten-degree units known as Decanates or Decans. These Decans are further broken down into five-degree units known as Quinances. Thus there are six Demons per sign beginning with 0° Aries.

March 21 – 25 – Ipos (Aries 0 – 4)
March 26 – 29 – Glasya-Labolas (Aries 5 – 9)
March 30 – April 3 – Furfur (Aries 10 – 14)
April 4 – 8 – Marax (Aries 15 – 19)
April 9 – 14 – Ronove (Aries 20 – 24)
April 15 – 19 – Botis (Aries 25 – 29)
April 20 – 24 – Salleos (Taurus 0 – 4)
April 25 – 29 – Bathim (Taurus 5 – 9)
April 30 – May 4 – Valefor (Taurus 10 – 14)
May 5 – 9 – Aim (Taurus 15 – 19)
May 10 – 14 – Bime (Taurus 20 – 24)
May 15 – 20 – Astaroth (Taurus 25 – 29)
May 21 – 25 – Buer (Gemini 0 – 4)
May 26 – 31 – Foras (Gemini 5 – 9)
June 1 – 5 – Gaap (Gemini 10 – 14)
June 6 – 10 – Marax (Gemini 15 – 19)
June 11 – 15 – Marbas (Gemini 20 – 24)
June 16 – 21 – Botis (Gemini 25 – 29)
June 22 – 26 – Gamigin (Cancer 0 – 4)
June 27 – July 1 – Amon (Cancer 5 – 9)
July 2 – 7 – Ronove (Cancer 10 – 14)
July 8 – 12 – Forneus (Cancer 15 – 19)
July 13 – 17 – Leraje (Cancer 20 – 24)
July 18 – 22 – Marchosias (Cancer 25 – 29)
July 23 – 27 – Baal (Leo 0 – 4)
July 28 – August 1 – Beleth (Leo 5 – 9)
August 2 – 7 – Paimon (Leo 10 – 14)
August 8 – 12 – Belial (Leo 15 – 19)
August 13 – 17 – Asmodeus (Leo 20 – 24)
August 18 – 22 – Purson (Leo 25 – 29)
August 23 – 27 – Buer (Virgo 0 – 4)
August 28 – September 1 – Foras (Virgo 5 – 9)
September 2 – 7 – Marax (Virgo 10 – 14)
September 8 – 12 – Gaap (Virgo 15 – 19)
September 13 – 17 – Marbas (Virgo 20 – 24)
September 18 – 22 – Botis (Virgo 25 – 29)
September 23 – 27 – Zepar (Libra 0 – 4)
September 28 – October 2 – Salleos (Libra 5 – 9)
October 3 – 7 – Berith (Libra 10 – 14)
October 8 – 12 – Eligos (Libra 15 – 19)
October 13 – 17 – Bathim (Libra 20 – 24)
October 18 – 22 – Agares (Libra 25 – 29)
October 23 – 27 – Ipos (Scorpio 0 – 4)
October 28 – November 1 – Glasya-Labolas (Scorpio 5 – 9)
November 2 – 6 – Marax (Scorpio 10 – 14)
November 7 – 12 – Ronove (Scorpio 15 – 19)
November 13 – 17 – Botis (Scorpio 20 – 24)
November 18 – 22 – Bifrons (Scorpio 25 – 29)
November 23 – 27 – Barbatos (Sagittarius 0 – 4)
November 28 – December 2 – Buer (Sagittarius 5 – 9)
December 3 – 7 – Vassago (Sagittarius 10 – 14)
December 8 – 11 – Stolas (Sagittarius 15 – 19)
December 12 – 16 – Sitri (Sagittarius 20 – 24)
December 17 – 21 – Seere (Sagittarius 25 – 29)
December 22 – 26 – Sabnock (Capricorn 0 – 4)
December 27 – 31 – Vine (Capricorn 5 – 9)
January 1 – 5 – Haagenti (Capricorn 10 – 14)
January 6 – 10 – Balaam (Capricorn 15 – 19)
January 11 – 15 – Orobas (Capricorn 20 – 24)
January 16 – 19 – Andras (Capricorn 25 – 29)
January 20 – 24 – Phenex (Aquarius 0 – 4)
January 25 – 29 – Vepar (Aquarius 5 – 9)
January 30 – February 3 – Crocell (Aquarius 10 – 14)
February 4 – 8 – Dantalion (Aquarius 15 – 19)
February 9 – 13 – Focalor (Aquarius 20 – 24)
February 14 – 18 – Zepar (Aquarius 25 – 29)
February 19 – 23 – Barbatos (Pisces 0 – 4)
February 24 – 29 – Buer (Pisces 5 – 9)
March 1 – 5 – Vassago (Pisces 10 – 14)
March 6 – 10 – Stolas (Pisces 15 – 19)
March 11 – 15 – Sitri (Pisces 20 – 24)
March 16 – 20 – Seere (Pisces 25 – 29)

Zodiacal Decans & The Golden Dawn System

Although the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn were not Demonolators, they had a marked interest, or determination, in finding a way to adequately assign all of the Goetic Demons to the 36 Zodiacal Decans. These Decans are “ruled” by specific planets. Many people find astrological nuances to be rather tedious and difficult to understand, but it may be simplified. As we have already explored, in astrology, Zodiacal Decans are determined by degrees within the sign. Each sign consists of 30 degrees and these are divided up into ten degree increments, the Decanal units. The first Decan of any sign is called the Ascendant Decan and encompasses 0° to 10° of that sign. The second Decan is called the Succedent Decan and encompasses 11° to 20° of that sign. The third and last Decan of a sign encompasses 21° to 30° of that sign and is called the Cadent Decan.

In the traditional assignment of planetary rulers to Zodiacal Decans, the system has consisted of beginning with 0° Aries and assigning the Ascendant Decan of that sign to Mars, the Succedent Decan to the Sun and the Cadent Decan to Venus. Moving onto the next sign, Taurus, the system assigns the Ascendant Decan of that sign to Mercury, the Succedent Decan to the Moon and Cadent Decan to Saturn. This cycle concludes with the seventh planet, Jupiter, being assigned to the Ascendant Decan of the next sign, Gemini. Thus, beginning at the Ascendant Decan of Aries and revolving through all of the Decans of the remaining signs, we have a cycle of planetary rulership which consists of Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury, the Moon, Saturn and Jupiter. The very last Decan of Pisces concludes with Mars, which is repeated again as the first Decan of Aries and so on.

In the Golden Dawn’s system, however, the sequence of planetary rulership changes. Here the first Decan of any sign is ruled by the planet which presides over that sign—for example, since Mars is the ruling planet of Aries, Mars is the ruling planet of the first Decan of Aries. For the Succedent and Cadent Decans of a sign, the Golden Dawn’s system assigns the ruling planets of the remaining two Zodiac signs within the Elemental category. For instance, since Mars is a Fire sign and the other two Fire signs within the Zodiac are Leo and Sagittarius, the Golden Dawn’s method will assign the Sun (Leo’s planetary ruler) to the Succedent Decan of Aries and Jupiter (Sagittarius’ planetary ruler) to the Cadent Decan of Aries. The Golden Dawn’s Decanal system begins with 0° Leo as opposed to the traditional starting point of 0° Aries.

However, it should be said that the Golden Dawn’s reasoning for its allocation of specific Goetic Demons to these Decans is sketchy at best. Because each Demon carries a rank, sometimes multiple ranks, and because each rank is associated with a particular planet, we end up with the planetary associations of specific Decans completely contradicting the planetary associations of the Demons assigned to them by the Golden Dawn. Additionally, the Golden Dawn assigns two Demons to each Decan—one ruling the hours of the day and one ruling the hours of the night.

Such Zodiacal intricacies can be confounding at times and it is not especially important to rely on any method of Decanal planetary assignments when determining the Holy Days for Demons. There is much controversy surrounding the validity of such Decanal assignments and is therefore indicative of the scepticism some retain when discussions of Goetic Decanal categorisations are in order. Although I prefer the Golden Dawn’s Decanal allocations, I would suggest simply using your own discretion when considering the Goetic Holy Days. You may find something altogether different which works for you. However, for the purposes of this section, I have included the Golden Dawn’s Decanal assignment of the Goetia and the corresponding dates.

March 21 – 29 (Aries 0 – 9)
Bael (Day);
Phenex (Night)

March 30 – April 8 (Aries 10 – 19)
Agares (Day);
Halphas (Night)

April 9 – 19 (Aries 20 – 29)
Vassago (Day);
Malphas (Night)

April 20 – 29 (Taurus 0 – 9)
Gamigin (Day);
Raum (Night)

April 30 – May 9 (Taurus 10 – 19)
Marbas (Day);
Focalor (Night)

May 10 – 20 (Taurus 20 – 29)
Valefor (Day);
Vepar (Night)

May 21 – 31 (Gemini 0 – 9)
Amon (Day);
Sabnock (Night)

June 1 – 10 (Gemini 10 – 19)
Barbatos (Day);
Shax (Night)

June 11 – 21 (Gemini 20 – 29)
Paimon (Day);
Vine (Night)

June 22 – July 1 (Cancer 0 – 9)
Buer (Day);
Bifrons (Night)

July 2 – 12 (Cancer 10 – 19)
Gusion (Day);
Vuall (Night)

July 13 – 22 (Cancer 20 – 29)
Sitri (Day);
Haagenti (Night)

July 23 – August 1 (Leo 0 – 9)
Beleth (Day);
Crocell (Night)

August 2 – 12 (Leo 10 – 19)
Leraje (Day);
Furcas (Night)

August 13 – 22 (Leo 20 – 29)
Eligos (Day);
Balaam (Night)

August 23 – September 1 (Virgo 0 – 9)
Zepar (Day);
Alloces (Night)

September 2 – 12 (Virgo 10 – 19)
Botis (Day);
Caim (Night)

September 13 – 22 (Virgo 20 – 29)
Bathim (Day);
Murmur (Night)

September 23 – October 2 (Libra 0 – 9)
Salleos (Day):
Orobas (Night)

October 3 – 12 (Libra 10 – 19)
Purson (Day);
Gremory (Night)

October 13 – 22 (Libra 20 – 29)
Marax (Day);
Ose (Night)

October 23 – November 1 (Scorpio 0 – 9)
Ipos (Day);
Auns (Night)

November 2 – 12 (Scorpio 10 – 19)
Aim (Day);
Orias (Night)

November 13 – 22 (Scorpio 20 – 29)
Naberius (Day);
Vapula (Night)

November 23 – December 2 (Sagittarius 0 – 9)
Glasya-Labolas (Day);
Zagan (Night)

December 3 – 11 (Sagittarius 10 – 19)
Bime (Day);
Valac (Night)

December 12 – 21 (Sagittarius 20 – 29)
Ronove (Day);
Andras (Night)

December 22 – 31 (Capricorn 0 – 9)
Berith (Day);
Haures (Night)

January 1 – 10 (Capricorn 10 – 19)
Astaroth (Day);
Andrealphus (Night)

January 11 – 19 (Capricorn 20 – 29)
Forneus (Day);
Cimejes (Night)

January 20 – 29 (Aquarius 0 – 9)
Foras (Day);
Amdusias (Night)

January 30 – February 8 (Aquarius 10 – 19)
Asmodeus (Day);
Belial (Night)

February 9 – 18 (Aquarius 20 – 29)
Gaap (Day);
Decarabia (Night)

February 19 – 29 (Pisces 0 – 9)
Furfur (Day);
Seere (Night)

March 1 – 10 (Pisces 10 – 19)
Marchosias (Day);
Dantalion (Night)

March 11 – 20 (Pisces 20 – 29)
Stolas (Day);
Andromalius (Night)

On the Four Great Kings & Elemental Holy Days

According to the Grimoires, the 72 Goetic Demons are presided over by an additional four Arch-Demons who are often referred to as the Four Great Kings. These Demons are known by several different names, depending upon the source, but are generally accepted to be Elemental rulers or guardians. Their origins are quite ancient and figure into Hebraic mythology as well as Christian. They are named in the Solomonic Grimoires most often as:

Amaymon or Oriens – King of the East

Corson or Egyn – King of the West

Zimimay or Amaimon – King of the North

Göap or Paymon – King of the South

You may notice the similarity between the names Göap and Gaap. This is often a confusing issue for Demonologists and there is no true certainty as to whether or not this is the same Demon or simply a coincidence. It is rather unlikely that Göap is the same Demon as Gaap—for instance, the Grimoires often make use of different spelling for each, even though the two names are quite similar. Even more confusing is the tendency for other sources to name Paimon as an alternate name for Göap and, similarly, Amaimon as an alternate name of Zimimay. For myself, I avoid the confusion and adhere to the names given in The Lesser Key of Solomon and which are listed above in bold.

These Four Great Kings are also present in Hebraic lore, instead assuming the names of Samael (Göap), Azazel (Amaymon), Azael (Corson) and Mahazael (Zimimay). Of course, there is always controversy as to whether or not this equation with the Hebrew Demon Princes is accurate, but I personally believe that the names are interchangeable.

These Four Great Kings, along with other high-ranking Demons found within The Lesser Key of Solomon such as Asmodeus and Astaroth, are also mentioned in the famous Grimoire, The Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage. In this resource, we discover numerous other spirits presided over by these Demons. Abramelin also includes the four Demon Princes of Lucifer, Satan, Leviathan and Belial and assigns one of the Four Great Kings as a sub-prince of each. There is little doubt that these Kings hold a position of great importance within Demonic hierarchies, as is also indicated by Their presence in other texts.

We are not told, however, over which of the 72 Goetic Demons these Four Great Kings preside—instead, we are given the directions which They rule and are essentially left to speculate. It makes some sense, then, to attempt to assign the Elemental King to all of the Demons with whom He shares an Elemental Nature. For example, because Göap rules the South, traditionally attributed to the Element of Fire (in the Northern Hemisphere), we can assume that He presides over all Demons of a Fiery Nature.

The problem then evolves into the issue of assigning each of the 72 Demons to a particular Element. Because there is so much confusion as to the actual significance of the ranks of the Demons, it is extremely difficult to come to a verifiable conclusion as to the validity of using the classical planetary rulerships of the individual ranks as guides when determining a particular Demon’s Elemental Nature. As I mentioned previously, many of the Demons, by Their descriptions, have Natures which seemingly contradict Their assigned planetary rulers.

A good example is the Demon Focalor. Focalor’s classical description, paraphrased, is that He “kills men by drowning them…sinks war ships…has power over storms of the sea”. One’s initial impression of Focalor’s Nature is, therefore, that it is quite clearly Watery, stormy and unpredictable. Because of this, it would make sense to connect Him with the Element of Water, but possibly also with the Element of Air (storms and wind) and, additionally, the Zodiac sign of Aquarius (an air sign, ruled by the planet Saturn). It makes little sense, then, that Focalor’s historical planetary assignment is Venus. How could this be? Because Focalor’s rank is that of Duke and because all Dukes are assigned to the planet Venus, He is thus considered to be a Venusian Demon.

As I have already mentioned, this confounding tendency for the classical planetary assignments to the Goetic Demons to completely contradict Their Natures renders constructing workable systems of Elemental classification nearly impossible. For this reason, I recommend looking at each Demon and Its description individually and determining Its Elemental Nature through this means. When I am inclined to classify a Demon by its planetary rulership, I prefer to use the Golden Dawn’s Decanal allotment system to determine a specific Demon’s planetary association. Others will find alternate methods. It is completely up to the practitioner and what makes sense to him or her.

Once you have undertaken the task of categorising the Demons by Elemental Nature, you may be interested in determining corresponding Holy Days based on Element. Some Demonolators use the traditional “Wheel of the Year” model to construct a usable calendar of Holy Days which is compatible with the four Elements. An example would be the traditional Yule, which is often associated with the Element of Earth. During the observance of traditional Yule in the Northern Hemisphere, a Demonolator may choose to honour Zimimay, King of the North and all of the Earth Demons. For the Southern Hemisphere, a Demonolator may choose to honour Göap, King of the South and all of the Earth Demons. Because of the flexibility of Elemental and planetary correspondences, it is incredibly simple to construct your own calendar of Demonic Holy Days.

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
altruism demonolatry left hand path magick neo-paganism paganism right hand path ritual satanism wicca

Left Hand Paths Vs. Right Hand Paths

Originally published 17 October 2008. © Torey B. Scott


Some of you are already familiar with the terms and with the meanings behind them. For those of you who are not, this article was designed to provide a brief introduction to the concept of “Left Hand” and “Right Hand” paths.

Who Needs A Hand?

The concept of “Left Hand” and “Right Hand” paths originated in the Hindu Tantra, which is composed of two separate ‘paths’ – dakshinachara (Right Hand Path) and vamachara (Left Hand Path). Essentially, the difference is that in dakshinachara (Right Hand Path), the more “mainstream” Hindu religious practices such as meditation can be found; alternately, in vamachara (Left Hand Path), one encounters more “taboo” practices such as sexual rites and animal sacrifice, which diverge from traditional and accepted Hindu religious practices.

Besides the Hindus, the concepts of ‘the left hand’ and ‘left-handedness’ have been regarded as ‘evil’ and/or being symbolic of a rejection of traditional religion throughout many cultures.

Examples of Right Hand Paths and Left Hand Paths:

Right Hand Paths:

  • Wicca
  • Christianity
  • Buddhism

Left Hand Paths:

  • Satanism – Symbolic & Theistic
  • Demonolatry
  • Luciferianism

An Illustration of Common Differences

In this segment, I will present several concepts followed by the common approaches to these concepts by both the Left and Right Hand Paths.

CONCEPT: The Self, The Person As An Individual.

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Typically regards the Self as spiritual in nature. However, a tendency exists to heavily separate concerns of the Ego from concerns of the True Will or Higher Self. Magick and acts for the purpose of self-attainment, self-gain and self-provision are generally viewed as indulgent, wasteful, selfish and in accordance with the desires of the Ego.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Typically regards the Self as worthy of worship and elevation. Concerns of the Ego and of the True Will are typically not separated, as they are regarded as one in the same. Magick and acts for the purpose of self-attainment, self-gain and self-provision are almost universally viewed as natural and are condoned and encouraged. The desires of the Ego are readily indulged in the belief that the Self is worthy of indulgence.

CONCEPT: The Divine, “God”, Spirit

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Typically regards the Divine/God/Spirit as omniscient, transcendent and sentient. Relationships with a personal Deity are nurtured through worship, prayer and ritual. Divine guidance is sought for the understanding of the True Will. Divine aid is called upon in most common practices. The Ego is inferior to the Spirit or Higher Self and must be overcome for the soul to perfect itself through life experiences.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Sometimes regards the Divine/God/Spirit as omniscient, transcendent and sentient. May be Atheistic in approach to Deity with a pronounced emphasis on the idea of the Self, the Ego, as Deity incarnate. May often view the Self, the Ego, as part of a greater Source of Spirit, co-existing with sentient godforms and entities (Deities) – however, typically regarding the Self, the Ego, the Human Spirit to be equal to or greater than other sentient godforms and entities (Deities).

CONCEPT: Ethics, Dogma, Codes of Behavior

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Typically observes some form of dogmatic ‘moral code’ or system of ethics wherein the individual is expected, to some degree, to abstain from those activities, acts, behaviors and magickal workings which indulge the Ego or the individual in favor of more altruistic approaches. Often regards acts of indulgence as abetting the wasteful desires of the imperfect Ego. Typically holds to rigid ideals and societal expectations.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Typically denounces most forms of dogmatic ‘moral codes’ or systems of ethics which suppress the individual and/or the Ego. Commonly favors those activities, acts, behaviors and magickal workings which promote and condone the indulgence of the Self, the Ego. Generally believes that there is ‘no such thing as a selfless act’. Does not regard the desires of the Ego as wasteful and/or deviating from any ‘True Will’ as the Ego is typically believed to be the same as the True Will, Higher Self. May or may not disregard rigid ideals and societal expectations.

CONCEPT: Obedience to a Higher Power or Will

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Generally adheres to some sense of inferiority to Spirit, The Divine, God, Higher Will. May or may not observe an obedience to the ‘Will of the Universe’ or to a pre-destined ‘fate’. May or may not regard Deity, Spirit as being more aware of what is ‘best’ for the individual and for mankind.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Generally rejects adherence to any sense of inferiority to Spirit, The Divine, God, Higher Will. Typically regards the Self as ‘Godlike’ or ‘equal to God’, thus being the supreme authority in regards to the needs of the individual and of mankind. Commonly rejects obedience to any Deity.

CONCEPT: Retribution and Karma

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Typically accepts some idea of Cosmic Justice, Karma, Karmic Retribution, Threefold Law as a Universal and supernatural means of Divine law and order. Additionally, may or may not believe in the concept of polar opposites of ‘positive’ and ‘negative’, ‘good’ and ‘evil’.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: May or may not adhere to the idea of Cosmic Justic, Karma, Karmic Retribution, Threefold Law as a Universal and supernatural means of Divine law and order, although, if adhering to the concept, regards it as exoteric. Typically does not adhere to any concept of polar opposites of ‘positive’ and ‘negative’, ‘good’ and ‘evil’.

CONCEPT: Happiness and Spiritual Fulfillment

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Generally believes that happiness and spiritual perfection, fulfillment come from ‘good’ and/or altruistic deeds. May or may not believe that true salvation/happiness/spiritual fulfillment is only attainable through transcendence of the material plane.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Generally believes that happiness and spiritual perfection, fulfillment are solely the responsibility of the individual in each lifetime. Typically discards the belief in salvation by means of ‘good’ and/or altruistic deeds which result in spiritual reward.

CONCEPT: Material Wealth and Indulgence

  • RIGHT HAND PATH: Typically believes that material wealth and indulgences are solely ‘fodder’ for the wasteful desires of the Ego. Generally conforms to the idea of the material plane as being a place of tests and hardships, a place to learn from and to eventually rise above.

  • LEFT HAND PATH: Typically believes that material wealth and indulgences are necessary for the happiness and contentment of the individual, the Ego as the individual is responsible for his or her own happiness and spiritual reward. Generally rejects beliefs that the material plane is a place of tests and hardships, a place to learn from and eventually rise above, instead adhering to the idea that life is what the individual makes it – that mankind is the master of his own destiny

The Use of Symbolism in Left Hand Paths

One of the first things that one may or may not notice about some followers and/or traditions of Left Hand Paths is the usage of ‘inverted’ symbolism.

Some quickly attribute the reasoning for the usage of this symbolism to nothing more than ‘shock value’. A common (and erroneous) stereotype, for example, of a ‘Satanist’ will depict a young teenage boy, dressed in all black and chains and wearing an inverted pentagram pendant around his neck. It is true that many teens attempt to shock their parents and their peers by dressing outrageously and claiming to be ‘Satanists’. Sadly, however, in the United States, there have been instances of such teens being involved in school shootings and other criminal activity, further tarnishing the reputation of Satanism and other Left Hand Paths.

Though the stereotype is inaccurate, the inverted pentagram is a real symbol used by Satanists and other followers of the Left Hand Path. This inversion is not an act of ‘perverting’ a ‘good’ symbol for shock value, but it is a meaningful symbol in and of itself.

The five points of the upright pentagram represent the power of Spirit (the topmost point) reigning supreme above the four Elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water (the material world), which are represented by the remaining points of the pentagram. In this symbolism, we have the representation of the belief of many Right Hand Paths in Spirit transcending the flesh – transcending wasteful material desires and distractions.

In the inverted pentagram, we have just the opposite of this. The five points of the inverted pentagram represent the power of the four Elements (the material world) in domination over the power of Spirit (now the bottommost point). In this configuration, we are now representing the belief of those who follow the Left Hand Paths in the material world being a place of importance, indulgence, lessons and, ultimately, what the individual makes it. There is no need to strive for the obscure goal of spiritual completion by means of transcending the flesh when spiritual completion and true happiness can be had in this plane.

Alternately, many Satanists and other followers of Left Hand Paths use the symbolism of inverted crosses and other ‘reversed’ versions of traditional religious symbols as a means to represent non-conformity and non-adherence to Dogma, rigidity and the yoke of religious institutions.

Conclusion

In short, labels are just that. Labels. In the end, everyone is in charge of his or her own happiness and fulfillment. Spirituality is just one piece in that very large puzzle. What we choose to call ourselves matters not in the grander scheme of things. With titles come identity and with identity comes acceptance. We humans are social creatures by nature and by nurture. What we seek is belonging and kinship and safety. Groups, families, societies, cultures – all of these are answers to our ever-longing questioning of ‘where do I belong?‘.

What you believe should not matter to anyone but yourself. We do not exist to fulfill someone else’s spiritual void. What you call yourself is completely up to you. “Am I a witch?”, “Am I a Satanist?”, “Am I a Presbyterian?”. Only you can answer that. Though we will always seek to belong to something…somewhere, never label yourself for your friends. Don’t label yourself for your family. Be true to yourself – and ‘me’ is the only label you can ever truly be proud of.