Sins

"'My brand of Satanism is the ultimate conscious alternative to herd mentality and institutionalized thought. It is a studied, contrived set of principles and exercises, designed to prevent, and liberate from, the contagion of mindlessness which destroys innovation. Here are some reasons why it is called 'Satanism:' It is most stimulating under that name, and self-discipline and motivation are easier under stimulating conditions. It means 'the opposition' and epitomizes all symbols of non-conformity. It represents the strongest ability to turn a liability into an advantage -- to turn alienation into exclusivity. In other words, the reason it's called 'Satanism' is because it's fun, it's accurate and its productive.'

"...The religion has remained vital, evolving to match technological advances, social flux and ever-increasing worldwide membership. From time to time, LaVey has presented his devoted followers with statements clarifying the Satanic platform. One such policy announcement, concerning the "Nine Satanic Sins," was presented in 1987, in the Church of Satan's house organ, The Cloven Hoof:

"'...where other religions develop sins that people can't avoid, we consider a number of things 'sinful' that people could avoid if they worked a little. This is the first doctrinal proclamation in over a decade and outlines some important rules for Satanic practices. It should be understood that this in no way supercedes the Nine Satanic Statements or the Eleven Rules of Earth, but is intended to augment these principles even further:

"'1. Stupidity -- The top of the list for Satanic Sins. The Cardinal Sin of Satanism.... The media promotes a *cultivated* stupidity as a posture that is not only acceptable but laudable. Satanists must learn to see through the tricks and cannot afford to be stupid.

"'2. Pretentiousness -- Empty posturing can be most irritating and isn't applying the cardinal rules of Lesser Magic ....'

{NOTE: excerpted from elsewhere in the publication, the principles of successful magic include:}

"Lesser Magic is the everyday magic of applied psychology, enchantments, courtesy and manipulation -- common tricks to get people to do what you want them to do. Greater Magic is LaVey's term for ritual or ceremonial magic.

"As a Satanist we can't afford to neglect either aspect -- the rational or bestial -- but rather integrate the two, augmenting each as much as possible."

"Magic requires action as a catalyst."

"Satanists keep constant reminders of our own mortality around, momentos mori, to spur us to enjoy each moment as if it were our last."

"The essence of Satanism, and Satanic practices, is the integration of apparent opposites. We blend magic and rationality together, without compromising either, in the same way we integrate different aspects of one person into the same body.

"Satanists are superior people. To gain immortal perspective and power, you must actively practice isolation from the herd."

"'3. Solipsism -- ...Projecting your reactions, responses and sensibilities onto someone who is probably far less attuned than you are. It is the mistake of expecting people to give you the same consideration, courtesy and respect that you naturally give them. They won't. Instead, Satanists must strive to apply the dictum of "Do unto others as they do unto you."....

"'4. Self-deceit -- ...Another cardinal sin. We must not pay homage to any of the sacred cows presented to us, including the roles we are excpected to play ourselves. The only time self-deceit should be entered into is when it's fun, and with awareness. But that's not self-deceit!

"'5. Herd-Conformity -- ...It's all right to conform to a person's wishes, if it ultimately benefits you.... The key is to choose a master wisely instead of being enslaved by the whims of the many.

"'6. Lack of Perspective -- You must never lose sight of who and what you are, and what a threat you can be, by your very existence.... Always keep the wider historical and social picture in mind. That is an important key to both Lesser and Greater Magic. See the patterns and fit things together as you want the pieces to fall into place. Do not be swayed by herd constraints -- know that you are working on another level entirely from the rest of the world.

"'7. Forgetfulness of Past Orthodoxies -- ... this is of the keys to brainwashing people into accepting something "new" and "different" when in reality it's something that was once widely accepted but is now presented in a new package. We are expected to rave about the genius of the "creator" and forget the original. This makes for a disposable society.

"'8. Counterproductive Pride -- ... Pride is great up to the point you begin to throw out the baby with the bathwater. The rule of Satanism is: if it works for you, great. When it stops working for you, when you've painted yourself into a corner and the only way out is to say, "I'm sorry. I made a mistake, I wish we could compromise somehow," then *do it*.

"'9. Lack of Aesthetics -- ...an "eye" for ... beauty, for balance, is an essential Satanic tool and must be applied for greatest magical effectiveness. It's not what's supposed to be pleasing -- it's what is. Aesthetics is a personal thing, reflective of one's own nature, but there are universally pleasing and harmonious configurations that should not be denied.'"

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The Church of Satan, by Blanche Barton, Hell's Kitchen Productions, 1990; pp. 65-7, 93-9.

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