Left Vs Right – Exploring The Paths by Knot Magick

The topic of Satanism was brought up as a topic at moot so of course we had to discuss it. I am not a Satanist. I am also not a member of any associated organization. However, I’ve always respected them on their own terms. On one hand, the way The Church of Satan explores the concepts of personal power is inspiring. Their approach to development through the satanic lens also motivates. It also has some interesting counterculture and true crime links. On the other, the Satanic Temple is a strong contrarian force in the good old US of A. It doesn’t resonate as well on this side of the pond, but good trouble is always good.

When starting the discussion, we first had to understand why Satanism is challenging to the wider Pagan community. We also needed to find the differences between the right and left-handed paths.

The Right Handed Path

We may want to consider the Right Handed Path (RHP) as the dominant position of the Pagan community. Most of the material on the market focuses on the same spiritual practices. It also covers philosophies that feature within the RHP. These include

• Harmony with the cosmic or divine order
• Union with a higher power, or the delusion of ego
• Selflessness and service
• Adherence to moral and social norms

The RHP is a spiritual approach which promotes the benefit of the whole over the individual. Altruism and alignment with the greater good, as well as with the cosmic/divine order, is also prioritized. Where hierarchy and tradition exist, like shared written texts and work, adherence and respect are the priority. We see these qualities easily within most new age practices. This is especially true when they draw on influences such as Kabbalah. Eastern precepts and practices like Buddhism and Yoga also influence them.

The Left Handed Path

Where the RHP priorities the whole, the Left Handed Path (LHP) focuses on the individual. The spiritual practices and philosophies featured within the LHP include

• Individualism and spiritual independence
• Embracing one’s worldly existence and desires
• Personal empowerment and self-deification
• Rejection of moral and social norms

The LHP is a spiritual approach that sees the individual practitioner as the highest magical, social and moral authority. There is an explicit rejection of the concept of cosmic order and blind adherence to the concept of Fate. Instead of denying desires, fears, or impulses, the LHP seeks to understand them. It integrates with them and uses them as a tool for transformation. These are also seen as a source of personal and magical power. Practitioners of the LHP reject tradition and dogma. They explore symbols, deities, and entities. These are seen not as something to be worshiped but as tools or aspects of the self to be harnessed. This is a path of becoming, not obeying. A process of mastery, nor surrender.

The Middle Path

When viewed as a spectrum, these two paths can easily be aligned as right and wrong. They can also be seen as good and bad. This can lead us towards and all or nothing approach to our spiritual development.

Rather, lets consider the Ying Yang symbol. Within the white/light half, there is a seed of darkness. There is also a spark of light within the black side.

Blind adherence to tradition and authority figures leads to stagnation and inertia. This adherence may cause more harm than benefit when the whole is being considered. In these circumstances challenging these norms begins to benefit and change. As another example, whilst altruism and self-sacrifice are positive characteristics, they carry a risk. There is a danger of burnout, which is harmful to our health in the long run.

Speaking personally, I try to walk a middle path. There are positive aspects to both paths, just as there are pitfalls. I recognize the value of understanding my shadow side. Integrating it is important. I also recognize the importance of developing my person-hood and personal spiritual power. I also recognize that there are powers and structures greater than myself. I can work within them, but I will not bow down in blind adherence. This is especially true where I can see that they are doing harm. I don’t see moderation as some kind of compromise. It is about being aware of the dynamic balance needed to walk my own path in the world. For me, this middle path is the path of the Witch.

Know thyself

I thought it was important to explore these three paths. They are not just spiritual practices. These paths are part of the way we define our values, identity, and world-view. Knowing which path you are on influences how you define truth and morality. It affects what you believe the self is for. It also impacts how you interpret symbols, taboos, and acts.

There is a danger of someone who may be RHP aligned researching Satanism. They may not be capable of moving past the negative aspects of rebellion. They could fail to see past the symbol toward the ethical, compassionate, and philosophical intent that lies behind it. Similarly, they may not be able to recognize the developmental benefit of practices that don’t align with their values.

I will move on to explore Satanism. I will do so through the lenses of the two biggest expressions. I will also examine some very British examples of Satanism as well as the theistic perspective. If you chose to follow me on this journey, consider any biases that you may have. I would encourage you to be open to being challenged. This is in terms of your beliefs and understanding. Also, consider what you think Satanism actually is.