Getting Started With Satanism by The Devil’s Library

Some books to get you started with Satanism (that aren’t LaVey’s bible)

Please note that none of these are simple “Satanism 101” titles. I don’t believe there is such a thing, at least not for me. However, there is a good reason for each one being on the list, which I will explain. There also won’t be any magic or witchcraft recommendations on this list, because while magic is compatible with Satanism, Satanism is a religion and witchcraft is a practice. I may update this list periodically, so if you re-blog or save this post, check back in on it once in a while.

Paradise Lost by John Milton — I’d argue this text is one of the closest things Satanism has to “scripture,” if there is a Satanic canon then Milton is a part of it. It can be a bit of a tricky read but it’s a beautiful poem loaded with imagery and metaphor to feed the soul. If the style is a struggle for you to read, I’d recommend listening to an audio version, it’s very beautiful when read aloud.

Revelations from the Christian Bible — Yes, I’m serious. If you, as a Satanist, are going to read any part of the Bible, make it Revelations. It’s poetic and esoteric and full of references to Satan and the demonic.

Inferno by Dante Alighieri — The one might surprise some people, as Satan absolutely isn’t depicted in a flattering light in it. However, Inferno has had a surprising amount of influence on the Christian understanding of Hell and the demonic, which is part of why I feel it is valuable, as Satanism is derived from Christianity. Many stereotypes about what one may expect when one gets to hell come from this book. Furthermore, it’s just a fun read.

Origins of Satan by Elaine Pagels — This one is a historical study of Satan as a religious figure, and I think it ought to be required reading for anyone getting into Satanism. Satan isn’t just a vague or meaningless deity, he has been weaponized by Christianity throughout the centuries to target very specific groups of people for specific reasons. If you are to take on the mantle of Satanist, I recommend understanding what sort of legacy you’re associating yourself with. You are becoming an adversary to God — but what, to the Christian eye, makes one an enemy?

RESPONSE BY XP (VIA LS666 BLOG)

There is an academic and philosophical side, to Satanism, that I have always found interesting. But there is also a strongly attractive metaphysical angle — not just a counter-reaction to the rigidity of the Abrahamic religion — but one that seems to draw my soul to wanting to know more, feel more, and experience more. Don’t get me wrong, I think reading is very important in terms of understanding and evaluating whether it is right for you — nevertheless, let your emotions flow with it — as the offering is one of freedom. Freedom from self-censoring of your thoughts; freedom from self-restraint of your actions; and being open to new possibilities of what this freedom brings to you.