Satanism

Satanism refers to a variety of religious, ideological, or philosophical belief systems. These systems are centered on the figure of Satan.

Some people focus on the worship or veneration of this figure. Others use the concept to explore specific ideas or human traits. Because these beliefs often align against traditional Abrahamic religions, they are considered countercultural. This means they exist in opposition to mainstream religious norms. The subject is complex because it includes both modern organized groups and historical accusations.

To understand Satanism, one must look at how different groups define it. Some scholars suggest a definition based on three specific characteristics. First, there is the worship of the biblical character named Satan or Lucifer. Second, these followers are organized into a group with a hierarchy. Third, the group engages in specific rituals or liturgical practices. This definition focuses on the structure of the group rather than the nature of the deity. It does not matter if the members see Satan as a real being or a symbol.

Modern Satanism is generally divided into two distinct types. The first type is known as theistic Satanism. These followers venerate Satan as a supernatural deity. However, they often do not view him as omnipotent, or all-powerful. Instead, they may relate to him as a patriarch. The second type is nontheistic Satanism. These practitioners do not believe in a literal, supernatural Satan. They view Satan as a symbol or a useful metaphor. For them, he might represent a vital force that exists within the universe.

The history of the term "Satan" reveals a deep linguistic evolution. The word originally comes from a Hebrew term meaning "adversary" or "to oppose." In the Old Testament, it was often used as an ordinary noun. For example, the Book of Samuel describes David as a "satan" or adversary to the Philistines. Over time, Jewish communities developed the idea of a fallen angel. This angel was said to have rebelled against Jehovah and been cast out of Heaven. This narrative was later included in texts like the Book of Enoch.

In the New Testament, the figure became more defined as a tempter. The Gospels of Matthew and Luke describe Satan attempting to tempt Jesus in the wilderness. As Christianity grew, the character expanded through folklore, art, and theological writings. By the early Middle Ages, the concept of the devil as the representative of evil became common. The term "Satanism" itself appeared in English and French during the 16th century. During the Reformation and Counter-Reformation (1517–1700), Catholics and Protestants used the term to attack one another. They accused their rivals of being in league with Satan to delegitimize them.

Historical accusations of "devil worship" have had massive social consequences. During the Middle Ages, the Inquisition alleged that certain groups performed secret rituals. Between 1560 and 1630, a belief in a Satanic conspiracy led to witch trials. These trials resulted in the executions of tens of thousands of people across Europe and North America. Some scholars argue that Satanism was an invention used to "other" or demonize opponents. Others suggest that people began to imitate these stories through a process called ostension. This is when people act out legends or tales that they have heard.

Self-identified Satanism is a relatively modern organized phenomenon. A major milestone occurred in 1966 with the founding of the Church of Satan. Anton LaVey established this group in the United States. The Church of Satan is an atheistic organization. This means its members do not believe in a supernatural Satan. Since the 1960s, many other groups have emerged, such as the Temple of Set and the Satanic Temple.

While these groups differ, they are all part of a broader landscape of modern thought. Globalization and the internet have helped these diverse ideas spread across the entire world.