Theistic Satanism & Infernalism: Embracing the Divine in Darkness

 Theistic Satanism & Infernalism: Embracing the Divine in Darkness

Theistic Satanists—often identifying as Infernalists—see Satan and other infernal beings as real, conscious entities. Their path is one of spiritual communion, personal empowerment, and the pursuit of forbidden or hidden knowledge. Unlike Atheistic Satanism, which views Satan symbolically, Infernalists revere the Infernal Divine as sacred and sentient.

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1. Understanding Satanism: Truth vs. Misconception

Satanism has long been stigmatized and misunderstood. While it encompasses various beliefs, most forms fall into two categories:

1.1 Public Perception of Satanism

• Society often equates Satanism with evil, crime, and chaos—a view born of religious fear, historical misinformation, and media sensationalism.

• The Satanic Panic of the 1980s–1990s intensified this fear, falsely linking Satanic practice to abuse, violence, and cult activity.

• Popular culture continues to paint Satanists as malevolent devil-worshippers, fostering misunderstanding and fear.

1.2 The Reality of Satanism

• Atheistic Satanism (e.g., LaVeyan): Uses Satan as a metaphor for rebellion, individualism, and rationalism. Followers do not believe in literal deities and instead focus on self-worship, indulgence, and reason.

• Theistic Satanism / Infernalism: Recognizes Satan, Lucifer, and demons as real beings. Practitioners engage in rituals, spiritual practices, and devotional work to commune with and learn from these entities.

1.3 Evil or Cautionary Tale?

• Historically, Satan has served as a cautionary symbol against disobedience to divine law. But many Satanists reinterpret this narrative.

• Rather than a villain, Satan is seen as a liberator—a being who chose knowledge, autonomy, and rebellion over blind obedience.

• The label "evil" is often the product of religious institutions attempting to control dissent and suppress alternative spiritual paths.

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2. What Is Infernalism?

Infernalism is a branch of Theistic Satanism where Satan (or Lucifer) and demonic entities are honored as divine beings. This path focuses on:

• Spiritual transformation through communion with infernal forces

• The pursuit of hidden knowledge and personal sovereignty

• Rejecting imposed religious dogma in favor of free will

Infernalists do not worship darkness for its own sake but embrace it as a source of power, mystery, and wisdom.

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3. Beliefs and Philosophies of Infernalists

While beliefs vary, Infernalists often share these tenets:

3.1 Satan/Lucifer as Liberator and Guide

• Seen as the true benefactor of humanity, offering forbidden knowledge and personal freedom.

• Lucifer may be regarded as the "Light-Bringer," illuminating the mind and spirit.

• In some systems, Satan is viewed as the world’s true creator—opposed by a jealous, authoritarian god figure.

3.2 Working with Demons as Allies

• Infernalists call upon demons not as evil tormentors, but as ancient intelligences with profound wisdom.

• Entities such as those found in the Ars Goetia are invoked for spiritual guidance, transformation, and empowerment.

3.3 The Path of Self-Deification

• Infernalism often includes the goal of apotheosis—the process of becoming one’s own god.

• It celebrates mastery over the self and the world through spiritual evolution and willpower.

3.4 Rejection of Mainstream Religious Morality

• Infernalists reject Abrahamic concepts of sin, guilt, and divine punishment.

• Instead, they form their own ethical systems rooted in honor, strength, self-responsibility, and sovereignty.

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4. Infernalist Traditions and Practices

Infernalism is diverse in its expressions, with several recognized traditions:

4.1 Demonolatry

• Devotional practice centered on honoring demons through ritual, prayer, offerings, and sigil work.

• Practitioners maintain relationships with specific demons as patrons or mentors.

4.2 Luciferianism

• A form of Infernalism that emphasizes enlightenment, individual sovereignty, and inner alchemy.

• Lucifer is seen as the archetype of the liberator and light-bringer, connected to Gnostic and esoteric traditions.

4.3 Chaos-Gnostic and Left-Hand Path Infernalism

• A blend of Gnosticism, chaos magic, and left-hand path philosophy.

• Emphasizes gnosis (spiritual knowledge), magical evolution, and personal ascension beyond human limitation.

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5. Misconceptions About Infernalism

Infernalism is often judged unfairly by outsiders. Common misconceptions include:

• "It’s evil and destructive" – In truth, it is focused on spiritual growth and personal power.

• "Infernalists harm others" – Most follow individual codes of ethics and do not promote violence.

• "They sell their souls" – Demonic beings are seen as allies, not masters; relationships are mutual and respectful.

Infernalism reclaims the concept of darkness, not as malevolence, but as a sacred, fertile space of transformation and power.

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6. Infernalism: Darkness or Liberation?

To the uninitiated, Infernalism may appear foreboding. But for practitioners, it is a path of:

• Empowerment through divine rebellion

• Freedom from oppressive dogma

• Union with the forces of the Infernal Realm

Infernalists do not walk blindly—they seek truth, power, and divinity on their own terms. This is not a descent into wickedness, but an ascent through shadow into sovereign enlightenment.