the satanic bible by anton szandor lavey

rating:

94%

synopsis:

this prose is broken into four segments, each containing a fundamental aspect of satanism. the first segment outlines the laws of satanism, many of which pertain to self-preservation and self-gratification. the second segment consists of a series of short essays that deal with a variety of topics: the foundation of satanism, the examination and resulting deconstruction of religion, the definition of ‘psychic vampirism’, the importance of ceremony and ritual, etc. the third segment explores the correlations between magic and science; more specifically, it links dogma with mental health. The final segment provides an outline of satanic practices for those who are interested in its form of spirituality.

positive:

the author provides a step-by-step guide to following a religious practice for the reader who feels the need to find spiritual guidance outside the realm of popular belief. even if the reader does not feel inclined to follow all or any of the author’s advice, there are beneficial philosophical tidbits to be found. true to the prose’s namesake, everything about the book is misleading; through the use of dark humor and vivid, violent imagery, the author presents the reader with a strangely uplifting train of thought.

negative:

though it was the author’s intended purpose, the ominous nature of the prose (and underlying religious beliefs) tends to keep it hidden from those who may find it the most beneficial. there are times when the author’s extensive attempts at desecrating the christian religion seem obsessive, even desperate. (however, it is addressed within the prose that these two negative aspects are absolutely necessary for the religion of satanism.) lastly, half of the final segment of the book is written in a dead language; this is only problematic in that its purpose is to be read out loud, but there is no pronunciation key provided.

all in all:

this is one of my favorite books. in fact, this is not the first time I have read it, nor will it be the last. i have found many great things to take away from anton lavey’s philosophy, and i believe i will find more. those who have read it, or are willing to, have my respect. i believe it is so important that I may look into founding a separate gideon sect that will distribute free versions of it to everyone until everyone is sick of hearing about it. i believe it is so important that it is something i will share with my children at a young age. if that frightens you... well, perhaps it should.

vocabulary:

unctuous, adj
unpleasantly and excessively suave or ingratiating in manner or speech; synonym: oily

quotation:

"be led into temptation and take that which tempts, whenever you can!"

see also: the satanic mass by anton szandor lavey

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