The nine satanic sins

he Church of Satan, begun in 1966 in San Francisco, is a religion that follows the principles outlined in the Satanic Bible, published by the first high priest and founder of the church, Anton LaVey, in 1969. While the Church of Satan encourages individuality and gratification of desires does not suggest that all actions are acceptable. The Nine Satanic Sins, published by Anton LaVey in 1987, target nine characteristics that Satanists should avoid. Here are the nine sins, along with brief explanations.


Stupidity

Satanists believe that stupid people do not advance in this world and that stupidity is a quality totally contrary to the objectives set by the Church of Satan. Satanists strive to keep themselves well informed and not to be fooled by others who try to manipulate and use them.


pretentiousness

Being proud of one's achievements is encouraged by Satanism. Satanists should thrive on their merits. However, one should only take credit for one's achievements, not those of others. Making empty claims about you is not only hateful, but also potentially dangerous, leading to sin number 4, deception.


Solipsism

Satanists use this term to refer to the presumption that many people make other people think, act and have the same desires for themselves. It is important to remember that everyone is an individual with their own individual goals and plans.

Contrary to the Christian "golden rule" which suggests that we treat others as we want them to treat us, the Church of Satan teaches that you should treat people as they treat you. Satanists believe that you should always face the reality of the situation rather than expectations.


self-deception

Satanists face the world as it is. Convincing yourself of lies because I am more comfortable is no less problematic than being deceived by someone else.

Self-deception is allowed, however, in the context of entertainment and play, when it is entered with awareness.


Herd compliance

Satanism exalts the power of the individual. Western culture encourages people to follow the flow and believe and do things simply because the wider community is doing it. Satanists try to avoid such behavior, following the wishes of the larger group only if it makes logical sense and adapts to their needs.


Lack of perspective

Stay aware of the big and small images, without ever sacrificing one for the other. Remember your important place in things and don't get overwhelmed by the herd's point of view. On the other hand, we live in a world bigger than ourselves. Always keep an eye on the big picture and how you can fit in.

Satanists believe that they work at a different level than the rest of the world and that this must never be forgotten.


Forgetfulness of the Orthodox past

Society constantly takes old ideas and repackages them as new and original ideas. Don't be fooled by such offers. Satanists are on guard to credit the original ideas themselves while serving those who try to change those ideas as their own.


Counterproductive pride

If a strategy works, use it, but when it stops working, abandon it willingly and without shame. Never hold onto an idea and strategy out of pure pride if it is no longer practical. If pride hinders the achievement of things, put the strategy aside until it becomes constructive again.


Lack of aesthetics

Beauty and balance are two things that Satanists struggle for. This is especially true in magical practices, but can also be extended to the rest of life. Avoid following what society imposes is beautiful and learn to identify true beauty, even if others recognize it or not. Don't deny classic universal standards for what's nice and beautiful.