Satanism - Blog Posts
30 Days of Deity Devotion
(Originally created by Arrin Deuognatos, who is no longer on Tumblr.)
A basic introduction of the deity
How did you become first aware of this deity?
Symbols and icons of this deity
A favorite myth or myths of this deity
Members of the family – genealogical connections
Other related deities and entities associated with this deity
Names and epithets
Variations on this deity (aspects, regional forms, etc.)
Common mistakes about this deity
Offerings – historical and UPG
Festivals, days, and times sacred to this deity
Places associated with this deity and their worship
What modern cultural issues are closest to this deity’s heart?
Has worship of this deity changed in modern times?
Any mundane practices that are associated with this deity?
How do you think this deity represents the values of their pantheon and cultural origins?
How does this deity relate to other gods and other pantheons?
How does this deity stand in terms of gender and sexuality? (historical and/or UPG)
What quality or qualities of this god do you most admire? What quality or qualities of them do you find the most troubling?
Art that reminds you of this deity
Music that makes you think of this deity
A quote, a poem, or piece of writing that you think this deity resonates strongly with
Your own composition – a piece of writing about or for this deity
A time when this deity has helped you
A time when this deity has refused to help
How has your relationship with this deity changed over time?
Worst misconception about this deity that you have encountered
Something you wish you knew about this deity but don’t currently
Any interesting or unusual UPG to share?
Any suggestions for others just starting to learn about this deity?
The Ultimate Deity Journal Guide
Similar to my grimoire guide, this is a guide on deity journals.
What Is A Deity Journal?
A deity journal is a journal dedicated to a deity. It’s filled with information, offerings, devotional pieces, etc. If you like journaling or can’t give other physical offerings (like food, libations, etc.), it’s one of the best offerings out there.
What Do I Use For It?
Usually deity journals are physical journals and notebooks. Binders and folders work as well. I have seen deity journals online, using things like Notion or Google Docs. Those are a little harder to format, but are great if you don’t have a notebook or aren’t a fan of physical journals.
So, What Do I Put In It?
Devotional Artwork
Devotional Playlists
Pressed/Dried Flowers or Herbs
Prayers
Devotional Poems or Stories
Myths
Recipes
Stickers
Experiences or Dreams
Photos
The Basics (Name, Epithets, Domains, Family, Associations, Holidays, Symbols, Sacred Days, Sacred Animals, Etc.)
Spells/Rituals That You Want To Or Have Done With Them
Offerings And Devotional Act Ideas
Journal Prompts
Magazine/Book Cutouts
Hymns
Shopping List (Things You Want To Buy For Them)
Fabric Scraps
Letters To Them
Divination Readings With Them
Coins Or Other Currencies
How You Celebrate (Or Plan To) Holidays Or Sacred Days With Them
UPGs
Altar Plans (Drawings Or Descriptions Of Altar Ideas)
Incense, Herb, And Oil Blends
Drops Of Wax, Wine, Etc.
Seed Packets
Blessings
Charms
Charm/Spell Bags
Travel Plans (Places You Want To Go For Your Deity)
Maps That Remind You of Them
Sigils Dedicates To Them
Superstitions Related To Them
Research On Their Birth Place
Devotional Jewelry Charging Station
Affirmations Dedicated/Influenced By Them
Small Sticks Or Branches
Book Annotations
Divination Techniques Related To Them
Relationship Goals (Better Communication, More Signs, Etc.)
Their Associated Rune/Tarot Card/Etc.
Teas And Tea Blends
Folklore/Mythology Entities Related To Them
Vision Board
Goals
Diary Entries And Rants
Taglocks
Paper/Straw/Etc. Dolls
Doodles
References/Further Reading
What kind of bird is Azazel associated with?
Description
In the extra-canonical text the Apocalypse of Abraham (c.1st CE), Azazel appears as an unclean bird who came down upon the sacrifice which Abraham prepared. (This is in reference to Genesis 15:11: "Birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away" [NIV]).
The Apocalypse of Abraham describes him as a carrion bird.
Possible Species
Birds of prey or predatory birds, colloquially known as raptors, are hypercarnivorous bird species that actively hunt and feed on other vertebrates (mainly mammals, reptiles and other smaller birds). Although predatory birds primarily hunt live prey, many species (such as fish eagles, vultures and condors) also scavenge and eat carrion.
Birds of prey such as hawks, falcons, eagles, osprey, vultures, and owls are familiar carnivorous birds.
Birds that are regularly known as carrion-eaters include: vultures, buzzards, condors, caracaras, eagles, hawks, crows, ravens, and other large corvids, gulls, skuas, and terns
Specific
{Criteria: bird of prey that also eats carrion and is found in Israel}
Crows, jays, and magpies Order: Passeriformes Family: Corvidae
Brown-necked raven, Corvus ruficollis
Common raven, Corvus corax
Eurasian jackdaw, Corvus monedula
Fan-tailed raven, Corvus rhipidurus
Hooded crow, Corvus cornix
Rook, Corvus frugilegus
Hawks, eagles, and kites Order: Accipitriformes Family: Accipitridae
Black kite, Milvus migrans
Common buzzard, Buteo buteo
Eurasian sparrowhawk, Accipiter nisus
Greater spotted eagle, Clanga clanga
Imperial eagle, Aquila heliaca
Lesser spotted eagle, Clanga pomarina
Long-legged buzzard, Buteo rufinus
Steppe eagle, Aquila nipalensis
White-tailed eagle, Haliaeetus albicilla
Sources
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azazel https://mythology.net/demons/azazel/
https://www.thespruce.com/meaning-of-carrion-386879
https://www.thespruce.com/carnivorous-diet-definition-386866
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bird_of_prey
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carrion
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_birds_of_Israel
Okay so what's so bad about scarletarosa? I've had interactions with her before and seen none of what anon is describing
Have you even seen her blog? She's definitely up to some bullshit over there.
Acts of Devotion for Azazel
Dyeing your hair
Wear dragon, serpent, or goat jewelry
Tie-dye or other ways of dyeing fabric
Do some makeup
Learn how to sword fight; kendo, fencing, etc
Make your own jewelry
Dedicate jewelry to wear for him
Collect weapons; check your local/national laws for regulations on legality
Practice fire scrying and incorporate fire in your witchcraft
Metallic nail polish
Learn about metallurgy
Arts and crafts involving metals and/or gems
Explore the wilderness around you
Get a nose piercing
Cultivate grapes
Drink grape juice or wine if of age
Spend some time in darkness
Learn to identify plants of your area
Wear black, red, and/or yellow
Mirror scrying
Be proud of yourself
Celebrate your own beauty
Explore pleasure and your sexuality
Help protect snakes
Finally, the promised list!
Pagan Prayer Journaling Prompts
Have you ever wanted to try Pagan journaling? If you don’t know where to start, here are a few prompts that you can read for inspiration.
Daily Check-Ins:
These are journaling practices that you can do on any given day, or daily if you choose.
Write down five things you’re grateful for, and thank the Gods for them.
Meditate for two, five, or ten minutes. Write about it afterward.
If you remember last night’s dream, record it and what you think it might mean.
Tell the Gods about your goals for the day.
Read one chapter of a book each morning and write notes.
Record the weather. How does it make you feel? Would you thank your deities for the weather or season?
Cleanse with smoke or crystals and then write down how you feel afterward.
Perform divination--draw a tarot card, pull a rune, or scy for a bit. What was your question? What was your answer?
Talk to the Gods about what is bothering you.
Find an inspirational quote. What do you like/not like about it? How does it relate to your practice?
Choose one symbol, crystal, herb, or divination tool. Research its correspondences and note how you can use it in your practice.
Contact a spirit you’re familiar with. What method did you use? Divination, meditation, or something else? How did it go?
For a Pantheon/Religion:
These prompts can help you learn about a religion/pantheon or explore your own beliefs.
Are there any major holidays coming up? If so, how can you prepare for them?
Study how the ancients practiced this religion, and take notes. What can you include in your practice? What will you exclude?
Look up the tenets of your religion, if applicable. Do you agree or disagree with these rules? How can you include them in your practice?
Give an offering to the Gods, such as a candle, incense, coffee/tea, or even water. How do you feel afterward? Is any particular deity grabbing your attention?
Talk about your favorite or least favorite myths from this religion.
Jot down a general prayer for all the deities, such as “Gods, I thank You all for ___.”
If you are interested in any other pantheon, study it and take notes.
Research a deity in your pantheon Whom you don’t know as well. What did you learn about Them?
How do you feel about this religion’s view of the afterlife?
Does your religion have a holiday calendar? If so, write about it.
Are there any local legends or folklore where you live? Study and write about them.
Why did you choose this religion or pantheon?
If you are eclectic or still choosing a Pagan religion, write down what you are looking for in a belief system.
Write down anything you love about your religion/pantheon.
Record your worship goals. In the next month, season, or year, look back at your list. What have you accomplished?
Are you thankful to this religion for any positives in your life? If so, write those down.
For 65 Pagan journaling prompts, read the full blog post.
I honestly believe the gods want you to be independent. They do not want you calling on Them five times a day. They are not constantly hanging over our shoulder, telling us "make the bed, eat healthy, don't skip breakfast, work out, try harder on that math question, take the water instead of soda, do your homework right after school, shower, brush your teeth, go to sleep on time, etc"
We should be able to manage ourselves. They are there to support us, and They might help in certain areas, like if you have an ED then yes maybe They do push a little harder for you to eat healthily, but for the most part no. They are gods, not our parents.
If you rely on Them too much throughout the day, if you keep calling on Them out of loneliness and needing someone to tell you to make the right decision, you've got
✨ A co-dependent relationship ✨
Which means if that deity leaves, takes a break, or if your connection is severed for some reason, you will completely break down. That is not sustainable. That is not healthy.
And no god wants that for Their worshiper.
It is no secret that angels go beyond the gender binary. Lucifer, a fallen one, is no exception, and as a notorious shapeshifter they can appear however they wish at the moment. (...) But there is more to it, something that goes beyond LGBT characteristics. As beautifully exemplified in their mythos, Lucifer is the epitome of Queer.
More in my new Wordpress post:
I don't know if I just haven't encountered it yet, but I haven't really seen anyone talking about or acknowledging something that's neither Unverified Personal Gnosis or Shared Personal Gnosis, but rather a third thing: Personal Group Gnosis.
PGG emerges from a small group of people having similar experiences to each other, which may or may not resemble anything that people outside of the group are experiencing.
This isn't inherently a bad thing. But among those who lack critical thinking skills, it can lead to some real trouble if they conclude that their similar experiences means that they're uncovering an actual objective truth, regardless of whether it's congruent with anything anyone outside of the group is experiencing.
One thing that many people fail to account for is the fact that they and their group generally share many of the same preconceptions and biases. For example, a group of younger Wiccans are very likely to believe in now-debunked ideas such as the great goddess hypothesis and the witch cult hypothesis. They'll believe in the existence of pagan gods, but they'll probably have a Christian-influenced understanding of divinity and morality, with little to no comprehension of the role that animism played in the development of pre-Christian traditions, nor with any real appreciation for how different values influenced the stories that people told about gods and other spirits.
They might even be exposed to similar media, which gives them all similar ideas about gods, spirits, and history. Even if they don't directly engage with the most popular media, it can still reach them through second or third hand exposure.
They're also likely reading the same spiritual, occult, and esoteric writers; or at least, reading people who have very similar ideas to one another.
And finally, since they're most likely friends and therefore trust each other, they are naturally biased toward accepting each other's experiences as valid, and working them into their own mental maps of the spiritual or metaphysical world.
In short, they're all primed to have very similar experiences to each other.
Without awareness that exposure to similar ideas can influence similar mystical experiences, it's very easy for a small group like this to generate a sort of shared map of reality that they feel justified in regarding as absolutely, objectively true.
It's at this point that people begin to feel confident telling you that if you just talked to your gods about what they're claiming, your gods would absolutely confirm them to be true. And if they don't, you were never really talking to those gods.
Having one's entire internal map of reality dictated by Personal Group Gnosis can be incredibly dangerous. It alienates you from the rest of the world by making you feel as if the only people you can trust are those who agree with your PGG. It can make you see outsiders as spiritually inferior, especially if they disagree with you outright. It can even encourage conspiracy thinking, because attributing what outsiders believe (or apparently believe) to the actions of a malicious conspiracy is a very common rationalization.
In other words, this is how you get a cult.
Now, a lot of people won't recognize it as a cult (and some will vehemently deny it's a cult) because it might not have a clear leader (though there's almost certainly a small number of people who have the most influence), and it probably doesn't have a financial goal. However, the destructive capacities of small groups of people living in their own reality cannot be denied. Members who don't go along with the group's accepted model of reality are often treated harshly, and are frequently targets for harassment. They may say that if you don't like it you can just leave, but let's be real, that's no simple matter if you believe that these are the only people with a real grip on reality, or if these people are basically your only friends, or even just your only friends who share your spiritual beliefs.
(If you're in this kind of situation? My advice is to start making more friends outside of this group. You don't have to cut yourself off from this group cold turkey; you can just start hanging out with other people more.)
Now, I'd like to emphasize that none of this is to say that PGG is inherently bad; I am only pointing out that it can be incredibly dangerous for people who lack knowledge, perspective, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, a group where there's a lot of this going on can be very dangerous for those who desperately just want to belong and get along, and push themselves to adopt their groups popular beliefs for fear of consequences.
Just like a single person's UPG doesn't dictate reality for everyone, neither does a single group's gnosis. PGG isn't inherently any better or more "correct" than UPG.
Learning the history behind your Gods is one of the easiest ways to dismantle the allure of “danger” that being raised monotheistic sometimes places on the very concept of syncretic worship.
Like, for example, when you realize how many gods of the Greco-Roman Pantheon(s) are borrowed or heavily influenced by other cultures you’ll realize that there’s no concept of “true” Hellenic or Roman worship. You’re worshipping a bunch of Gods only some of whom are rooted in only-Greek or only-Italic concepts and cultural ideas. A lot of Them are Syrian, Celtic, Iranian, Egyptian, Sumerian, Anatolian, etc. - or are influenced enough to lose this “purity” of self.
Worshipping this religious cluster is by definition being syncretic, I would say. Because Greek and Roman Pantheons are by definition syncretic. You’re fine. You’re not “disrespecting” anyone by doing this.
hello!! I'm starting to look into information on Lucifer, and I'm running into some road blocks. I was wondering if u knew if thr author Asenath Mason was a good source or not? i am incredibly hesitant about accidentally stepping on a landmine, so to speak
So I have not managed to get through any of her books in full but she did multiple collabs with E. A. Koetting who is a murder-encouraging nazi charlatan and some with Michael Ford who is also very sketchy when it comes to fascism (explained in the linked post by @alephskoteinos) and she also wrote multiple books on Qliphoth (appropriating and bastardizing Kabbalah, which many Jewish people stated is harmful) so I wouldn't call her a good source.
From books written by practitioners, from what I remember The Luminous Stone edited by Michael Howard was nice. I can't say agree with everything, but I recommend it because it shows many perspectives on Lucifer from those who work with her, without, you know, nazi shit. Unfortunately I don't know any books specifically on Luciferian practice worth recommending, but learning more generally about working with and veneration of entities in general can be a great help because while many things may differ, many principles are pretty common. Also if witchcraft is your thing, more folklore-based practices can incorporate Devil figures much more often than ones shaped by Wicca, so there are many options of including Lucifer, especially in his more folkloric aspect.
From academic works, Children of Lucifer by Ruben Van Luijk and The Devil's Party edited by Per Faxneld and Jesper Petersen are good for general history (they speak about Satanism but also about Luciferianism bc it is very intertwined). They will not give you a guide on how to practice, but will give you a general understanding of many ideas common in Luciferianism and where they come from which is very important. Another personal favorite is Satanic Feminism by Faxneld, which is an exploration of how Satan/Lucifer started to be connected with liberation (feminism in particular) in 19th century.
Origins of Satan (written by a professor but more accessible than academic works are from what I remember) is an important read on the politics of how Satan was used to "demonize" various groups of people.
Also Paradise Lost but imo when you get more context on its role in Satanism, Children of Lucifer should suffice.
Some books to get you started with Satanism (that aren't LaVey's bible)
Please note that none of these are simple "Satanism 101" titles. I don't really believe there is such a thing, at least not for me. However there is a good reason for each one being on the list, which I will explain. There also won't be any magic or witchcraft recommendations on this list, because while magic is absolutely compatible with Satanism, Satanism is a religion and witchcraft is a practice. I may update this list periodically, so if you reblog or save this post, check back in on it once in a while.
Paradise Lost by John Milton. I'd argue this text is one of the closest things Satanism has to "scripture," if there is a Satanic canon then Milton is absolutely a part of it. It can be a bit of a tricky read but it's a beautiful poem loaded with imagery and metaphor to feed the soul. If the style is a struggle for you to read, I'd recommend listening to an audio version, it's very beautiful when read aloud.
Revelations from the Christian Bible. Yes, I'm serious. If you, as a Satanist, are going to read any part of the Bible, make it Revelations. It's poetic and esoteric and full of references to Satan and the demonic.
Inferno by Dante Alighieri. The one might surprise some people, as Satan absolutely isn't depicted in a flattering light in it. However, Inferno has had a surprising amount of influence on the Christian understanding of Hell and the demonic, which is part of why I feel it is valuable, as Satanism is derived from Christianity. Many stereotypes about what one may expect when one gets to hell comes from this book. Furthermore, it's just a fun read.
Origins of Satan by Elaine Pagels. This one is a historical study of Satan as a religious figure, and I think it ought to be required reading for anyone getting into Satanism. Satan isn't just a vague or meaningless deity, he has been weaponized by Christianity throughout the centuries to target very specific groups of people for specific reasons. If you are to take on the mantle of Satanist, I recommend understanding what sort of legacy you're associating yourself with. You are becoming an adversary to God - but what, to the Christian eye, makes one an enemy?
Do you know anything about trickster Spirits pretending their deity's?
I don't have much experience with that, sorry.
I started a blog on Wordpress for longer posts! This is my first one and it's about how the myths of the Fall and of Hell can give one strength to live - even when there is not much hope that things will eventually be okay.
good resources on theistic satanism for beginners?
Books:
- The Infernal Gospel, Rev. Cain
- The Satanic Scriptures, Peter H. Gilmore
- The Unholy Bible - Rev. Cain
- At Satan’s Altar, Marie Ravensoul
Websites:
In Satan’s Honour
Spiritual Satanist
Theistic Satanism
Black Goat Cabal
Your Friendly Neighbourhood Devil Worshipper
Satan’s Den
Aleister Nacht
In Praise of Satan
Please also educate yourself on how to identify and avoid cults, and be aware of extreme right wing groups including (but not limited to) Joy of Satan and Order of Nine Angles.
Speaking generally, but when it comes to witchcraft,
if you don't have the ability to analyze what gods and/or spirits tell you,
and then make your own decisions,
you should probably not be working with gods and/or spirits.
If you don't feel comfortable saying "no," you should probably not be working with gods and/or spirits.
Azazel
The name Azazel only occurs one time in all of the canonical Bible, in Leviticus 16:8-10. As the Catholic Encyclopedia records, this passage explains the ceremony that the Jewish people should perform as part of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
As a personification of evil, the Jewish Encyclopedia refers to Azazel as "in some degree a preparation" for the idea of Satan. The figure of Azazel is likely pre-Israelite in origin and is probably closely tied to a communal fear for the mountainous desert region that he came to personify.
According to the Nahmanides the scapegoat rite is a symbolic expression of the idea that the people's sins and their evil consequences were to be sent back to the spirit of desolation and ruin, the source of all impurity.
1 Enoch portrays Azazel as responsible for teaching people to make weapons and cosmetics, for which he was cast out of heaven.
In the extra-canonical text the Apocalypse of Abraham (c.1st CE), Azazel appears as an unclean bird who came down upon the sacrifice which Abraham prepared. (This is in reference to Genesis 15:11: "Birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away" [NIV]).
In the Apocalypse of Abraham, Azazel is described with his own Kavod (Magnificence), a term usually used for the Divine in apocalyptic literature, already indicating the devil as anti-thesis of God, with the devil's kingdom on earth and God's kingdom in heaven. Azazel is also identified with the serpent which tempted Eve.
In De occulta philosophia (1509-1510), Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa: Scale of quaternary: Four Princes of devils in the elements: Azazel: Air
In later lore, he is fallen and is punished by having his nose pierced.
The word "scapegoat" has developed to indicate a person who is blamed and punished for the actions of others.
The illustration depicts him with horns, a pitchfork, a banner, and, of course, a goat. There's a frog on the banner. From Dictionnaire Infernal by Jacques Auguste Simon Collin de Plancy
Alternative Spellings
Hebrew: עֲזָאזֵל ʿAzāʾzēl
Arabic: عزازيل, romanized: ʿAzāzīl
Asael
Azael
Azazyel
Azzael
Epithets
The Adversary
Advisor
The Angel of Darkness
Blender of Eyeshadows
Counselor
The Crafty Adversary
The Crafty Worm
The Cunning Worm
The Fallen Archangel
Forger of Swords
Guardian of Goats
The Lawless One
The Rebel Angel
Seducer of Mankind
Identified With
The Devil
[Apocalypse of Abraham] Here there is the idea that God's heritage (the created world) is largely under the dominion of evil – i.e., it is "shared with Azazel" (Abr. 20:5), again identifying him with the devil, who was called "the prince of this world" by Jesus. (John 12:31 niv)
Gadriel and Rameel
Some of the fallen angels that are given in 1 Enoch have other names, such as Rameel ('morning of God'), who becomes Azazel, and is also called Gadriel ('wall of God') in Chapter 68. (A source is not cited for this)
Gadreel (Hebrew: גדר האל, romanized: Gader ha-el, lit. 'Wall of God') is listed as one of the chiefs of the fallen Watchers. He is said to have been responsible for deceiving Eve. Schmidt lists the name as meaning 'the helper of God.'
Iblis
In Islamic lore, Azazel or Azazeel was the name of Iblis before he disobeyed God by not bowing to humans and was sent from the Earth.
Satan
Origen ("Contra Celsum," vi. 43) identifies Azazel with Satan.
Azaz, as in Azazel, means strength, so the name Azazel can refer to 'strength of God'. But the sense in which it is used most probably means 'impudent' (showing strength towards), which results in 'arrogant to God'. This is also a key point in modern thought that Azazel is Satan. Also important in this identification is the fact that the original name Rameel, is very similar in meaning to the word Lucifer ('Morning Star') which is a common Latin name of Satan in Christianity.
Associated With
Alchemy
Antimony (use of)
Beauty
Coloring tinctures
Cosmetics
Cunning
The earthly realm
Fatherhood
Forbidden knowledge
Freedom of choice
Goats
Dye making
Herbalism
Knowledge
Magic
Marriage
Metallurgy
Metalworking
Mirror making
Occult arts
Ornamenting the body
Pleasure
Pride
Rebellion
Scapegoats
Seduction
Self preservation
Sensual experiences
Sexuality
Temptation
Warfare
Weapon making
Wisdom
Witchcraft
Attributes
Abyss, hole, pit
Air
Antimony
Banner with a frog on it
Black
Bracelets
Breastplates
Chain
Coats of mail
Cosmetics
Darkness
Desert
Dragon
Dudael, Dûdâêl (God's Kettle/Crucible/Cauldron)
Dye
Fallen/falling star
Fire
Goat, goat skulls, goat bones
Grapes, grapevine
Herbs
Jewelry
Knives
Metals
Metalsmithing tools
Mirror
Mount Azazel (Jabel Munttar) in the Judaen Desert
Nose piercing
Precious stones
Red
Rough and jagged rocks
Serpent
Shields
Swords
Unclean bird, bird of prey, carrion bird
Uninhabited places
Weapons
Wilderness
Depictions
His form is described as a dragon with "hands and feet like a man's, on his back six wings on the right and six on the left." (23:7)
Originally, Azazel was one of heaven’s angels, a gloriously beautiful man with wings on his back.
Today, like many demons, Azazel is drawn with red skin, glowing yellow eyes, and a barbed tail. He may also be found wearing goat skulls or dressed in goat bones.
He is a shape-shifter and may appear in any form, including a winged angel.
An unclean bird, bird of prey, carrion bird
Do you have any recommended books on Lucifer and demonolatry besides the one by S Connolly?
Hi! Sorry for taking so long, I was quite overwhelmed with college. So first some recommendations:
Children of Lucifer by Ruben Van Luijk - an academic book on satanic history.
Satanic Feminism by Per Faxneld - on the intersection of feminism, liberation in general, and the satanic. A book formative for my practice even though it doesn't much deal with religious Satanism.
The Devil's Party: Satanism in Modernity edited by Per Faxneld and Jesper Petersen - I'm still not finished with that one, as college makes me have much less energy for reading even more academic texts, but I've liked the previous book by Faxneld and the essays I've read so far were interesting.
The Luminous Stone: Lucifer in Western Esotericism edited by Michael Howard and Daniel A. Schulke - I admit I don't remember much of the contents as I read it when I was beginning to work with Lucifer, and it's worth knowing that this one is not academic like the three listed before, but you can see some perspectives of the practicioners in it as it's an essay collection with many contributors.
As for Connoly - I don't like her books. They're poorly researched and perpetuating misinformation, they are very appropriative too, and in the Complete Book of Demonolatry she openly references a Joy of Satan website, waving the fact that they're a nazi cult away with "theological differences", which makes her seem to be way too comfortable with nazis. Koetting, a nazi who inspired actual murder, lists her on his Become a Living God website as someone he collaborated with, though she herself denies so I don't know what to think since Koetting is hardly a credible source and he lists 20 people there. Still - the Joy of Satan link is right there in her book.
on the essence of offerings
The question "does god xy will accept and like xy as offering" is a question originating from a theology where the offering will "appear" 1 to 1 before the god to eat and digest.
This question is one of the more prominent ones and can cause religious anxiety.
But this has not to be the case, if we take a different aproach on what exactly is offered and why. Do we "feed" the gods? Perhaps not. They were there before us and were well nutritioned. Just look at Thor :D
Do the Gods "need" our offerings? Perhaps not. Like I said, they exist without us and will exist without us.
So why do we offer food, drinks and votives?
@oceankeltoi made a wonderful example with his Cat where he would land on the lap of him and simply purr. This purr is what our offerings are. They have no "real" purpose but to sway and compliment the gods. We give symbolic thanks to them for what they did, do and will do in the future.
Like a toast, it helps to have some thoughts behind an offering and a pious aproach towards the ritual and the offered things.
Besides that, just because the Edda's state, that Odin only drinks Mead and Wine in his Hall, that doesn't mean he doesn't accept a nice offering of cookies and a libation of milk or anything else or he doesn't drink/ eat anything else outside the hall. Literalism is not the way.
Luciferian Challenge: Day 17
What symbols do you refer to in Luciferianism? Why?
There’s some overall symbols I’m really drawn to when it comes to my Luciferianism. Torches and serpents are the big ones, perhaps for obvious reasons: the Lightbringer or enlightenment aspects of Luciferianism are wonderfully represented by a torch (though I’ll sometimes use a lantern as a substitute, especially when it comes to an actual physical prop or tool) and serpents or snakes have a connection both to the Original Sin and to imagery of rebirth and growth given their constant shedding.
Stars and fire are also imagery I enjoy, as they’re often a light in the dark and the theme of the Morningstar is ever present during modern discussions of Lucifer, and they have some overlap with my Dionysian side of things, as do the aforementioned serpents.
For more obscure ones that are a bit esoteric and personal to me, I like the dagger (for its history as a very broadly used magical and practical tool) and those archways/portals with a set of stairs and stars beyond it (because it reminds me of imagery similar to the Flammerion Engraving, and the act of trying to look beyond the firmament).
And finally, I’ll sometimes use the seal of Lucifer from the Grimoire Verum or a pentagram, but they’re sort of a supporting symbol or last resort rather than what I like most or find the best fitting for my beliefs and practice.
I will admit that most of my general symbols are also ones I’d also use for Lucifer specifically, as despite having a trio of figures that are important to my practice and beliefs, he’s central and the tie that binds it all together. It is, after all, called Luciferianism. I’ve used the Emperor tarot card as a temporary idol for him during divination, but it’s a poor fit and I’d want to find a new one… perhaps the Magician instead, but it’s something I mean to put more work into.
For Eve, I like the apple best as it’s most recognizable, but also figs, pomegranates, and mushrooms. Due to some tarot divination I’ve done, I also associate her with the Empress card, and the Queens of Swords and Pentacles. I’m still working on other flowers and plants beyond the fruiting ones that suit her, as well as planetary associations. It’s an ongoing process.
And for Azazel, I so far default to a goat or goat’s skull. I don’t like leaning too far into the Scapegoat side of things, as that feels pretty uniquely Jewish, but even in Christianity he has some association with goats. He also has a role to me that feels very similar to the paintings you’ll see with the goat headed figure at the witches’ sabbaths, so it’s double appropriate.
I am very, very conflicted on Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s symbol for Saturn being used as his sigil. While he is absolutely a figure you could describe as Saturnian, magically speaking, my research suggests that the earliest popularization of using that seal for him might have come from the founder of the JoS, which would be deeply unfortunate. Obviously it’s not like I’d be the one to spread the idea (as looking up “sigil of Azazel” will almost universally give you the Saturn symbol), but I’m just so deeply allergic to everything they stand for that the idea of using it is a bit, for lack of a better word, icky.
Frater VIM, who ran a now defunct blog that brought this un-fun bit of trivia to my attention, proposed that the related symbol of the planetary daemon/demon Zazel was actually referencing Azazel, and therefore an appropriate alternative. However, I’m not fully sure if the idea of Azazel and Zazel being the same figure purely on name similarity is one I vibe with, and would have to do further research. While this happens a lot with some angelic names/occult figures, there’s other times when a similar name is not in any way indicative of two deities or spirits being related. Finally, as far as Tarot symbolism goes, I used the Devil card in a pinch but did not like it for him. As with Lucifer I need to investigate more appropriate alternatives. Currently I’m leaning towards the Hermit.
I tend to represent myself in my practice, when the need arises, with the Fool (for its association with new beginnings), or with the card that’s become my signifier during Tarot divination, which I don’t want to post publicly at this time. I think having personal symbols and associations can be incredibly handy, and I wish I’d started employing it in my practice sooner.
Hey! My preliminary research has suggested Azazel being closed to Judaism due to his roots within it, can I ask where you have gotten your information on him from? Not to sound accusatory, just wanting to know more.
Hello, thanks for asking!
So obviously I'm coming at this from a Christian perspective. My knowledge of Jewish religion and folklore is far more limited than someone raised within the religion.
The aspect of Azazel I understand to be very intertwined with Judaism is the scapegoat ritual. I've grabbed a definition of it from the Sydney Jewish Museum.
A key part of Yom Kippur, as described in the Torah, is the ritual slaughter of two goats; one for the Lord, and the other is designated “for Azazel”. Jewish tradition takes “Azazel” as the name of a rocky headland off which one goat, having the sins of the community symbolically placed upon it, would be thrown. The other goat, the one for the Lord, would be slaughtered as part of the general Yom Kippur rituals. This slaughter would bring atonement to the community.
This isn't part of Azazel's mythology that I really engage with. My view of him as a Watcher or fallen angel comes from the Book of Enoch, which is an Apocryphal text that seems to date back to the Dead Sea Scrolls. I've read that both Ethiopian Jewish communities and some Orthodox Christian churches consider it canon, but for the most part it is treated by wider Judaism and Christianity as not an official part of scripture. I have also heard that a story very similar to it appears in Islam, though I've not done enough research into it to speak at length about that.
In another Apocryphal text called the Apocalypse of Abraham, the name Azazel is attributed to an unclean bird of prey that tried to consume part of Abraham's sacrifices to God. In the same text, the name is also used to refer instead to the Serpent in Hell. Neither version is something I draw much of my understanding of him from (at least currently), but I'm mentioning it as an example of how often the same name or concept can pop up in different texts.
So to summarize, the name Azazel and a very specific rite associated with it do appear in Judaism, and that version/interpretation not something I feel comfortable approaching as a Luciferian who was raised Christian. Meanwhile, the view of him as a fallen angel exists only in Apocrypha, and isn't closely intertwined with or unique to Jewish culture and folklore in the same way a figure like Lilith is. That's the specific entity called Azazel I engage with.
One of the earliest definite mentions of Azazel was in the Book of Enoch, particularly in what is known as The Book of the Watchers. This text, written between the 3rd and 1st century BCE, is a part of the Dead Sea Scrolls and is not considered canon by most modern day denominations but the characters and stories in this text remain a popular source of intrigue even to this day. In Enoch, we are told of the Grigori (Watchers) who were a group of 200 angels in charge of, you guessed it, watching mankind. In the process of watching humanity, they began to notice the “beautiful and comely daughters” of mankind and were overcome with lust for these women. Collectively, they agreed to take wives and father children but their leader Semjaza expressed concern that some of his men would back out. In an effort to guarantee that he would not be the only one commit this great sin, they all took an oath on Mt. Hermon, binding themselves ‘by mutual imprecations.’ Of the 200 Grigori, there were 20 leaders, with Semjaza holding the highest rank. The second highest rank went to Azazel who taught mankind how to make weapons and use cosmetics (get yourself an angel who can do both!)
Each of the Watchers taught humanity different ‘secrets of heaven’, which ended up being subjects like astrology, meteorology, and various practices considered ‘witchcraft’ in those times. However, some of them taught subjects still considered taboo in certain cultures. Tamiel, also called Kasdeja, for instance, was said to have taught women about abortion. Each of the Watchers also slept with mortal women and fathered monstrous giants called Nephilim. The Nephilim were said to be 3000 ells high, which is a little more than 2 miles tall. They were ravenous, even cannibalistic. When the labors of humanity could no longer keep up with the Nephilim’s appetites, the Nephilim turned on humanity, devouring man, animal, and each other. Those who were killed by the deeds of the Watchers arrived in heaven and brought God’s attention to destruction on Earth. To combat the devastation brought on by the Watchers, God sent he archangels. Uriel was told to warn Noah of the upcoming flood. Gabriel was in charge of killing the “bastards and the reprobates” as well as the Nephilim. He was instructed to pit them against each other while Michael bound Semjaza and the rest of the Watchers so that they could see their son’s rip each other apart. But God specifically set out an individual punishment for Azazel. “The Lord said to Raphael: ‘Bind Azazel hand and foot, and cast him into the darkness: and make an opening in the desert, which is in Dudael, and cast him therein. And place upon him rough and jagged rocks, and cover him with darkness, and let him abide there forever, and cover his face that he may not see light. And on the day of the great judgement he shall be cast into the fire.” He further adds “the whole earth has been corrupted through the works that were taught by Azazel: to him ascribe all sin.’
Art: Azazel by Peter Mohrbacher ( @bugmeyer ) for his work, Book of the Watchers.
REMINDER, DO NOT FOLLOW ME IF YOU "WORK WITH LILITH"
I have too much respect for witchblr's Jewish community to waste time with people who appropriate aspects of their culture, and refuse to respect their requests that you all stop.
If you're TRULY clueless as to WHY working with Lilith is not okay I can link you to a few resources on it, but I truly suggest you seek out someone who IS jewish and learn from them instead.
Small ways to connect with and honor Lucifer
Contemplate the stars.
Learn something new.
Share some fruit with him.
Take care of yourself.
Boost voices of marginalized people.
Explore his depictions in art.
Study philosophy.
Learn and correct misinformation about snakes and other villanized animals.
Light him a candle and contemplate the fire.
Write them little thank you notes.
Play music that reminds you of them, and invite them to listen with you.
Do something that brings you pleasure.
Donate to organisations doing work connected to what he stands for, like fighting oppression and helping oppressed people.
Write a list of things you appreciate about him, then try to do the same for yourself.
Learn about their history.
Simply talk to him.
Sing them a song.
Lucifer
Lucifer is a Latin word coming from the words lux, meaning light, and fero, meaning to bear or to carry. Literally translating to light-bearer.
Lucifer as a Roman Deity
Lucifer has had many faces throughout history. One of these being the ROman deity of the morning star, or Venus, considered the male equivalent of the goddess Venus. He is attributed to being the god of enlightenment and illumination. Lucifer is often depicted carrying a torch, and said to be equal in beauty to the goddess Venus. Due to being the morning star, I can also see Lucifer being associated with war as well. Especially considering his association with learning and knowledge, as well as that Venus also historically had war epithets.
In the Greek pantheon, they separate the morning star and the evening star into two seperate deities, being Phosphorus/Eosphorus and Hesperos. Eosphorus meaning “dawn-bringer”, and Phosphorus meaning “The bearer of light”. Phosphorus and Hesperos are the sons of Eos, Goddess of dawn, and Astraios, God of dusk. Phosphorus is the father of the Hesperides, nymphs of the evening time and light of the sunset.
Lucifer in Abrahamic Religions
Historically, Lucifer was never mentioned in the Bible at all. His name being associated to Christianity nowadays is due to a mistranslation of a poem about a fallen king. However, he is a big part of Christian culture now, and there are myths associated with him.
Lucifer was said to be the most beautiful and intelligent of God’s angels. He was God’s right hand. Until he defied God. There are many different versions of the fall of Lucifer.
One version of this story says that Lucifer became overly prideful of himself, his beauty, intelligence, power, that he thought himself worthy of being worshipped equal to God. Because of this, God cast him out of heaven.
Another version is that Lucifer was jealous of Jesus Christ. He gathered the angels and brought forward the idea of worshipping him instead of Jesus. Some of the angels sided with Lucifer, while others did not. There was a meeting between God, Lucifer, and all of the angels in which God said that their rebellion was unforgivable. There was a war between the two sides, but ultimately God and his angels won. Lucifer and the angels who followed him were banished from heaven.
Lucifer in Modern Witchcraft
In more modern witchcraft, there is a tradition which states that Diana, queen of witches, created Lucifer when she split herself into two pieces, darkness and light. She kept the darkness for herself, and Lucifer kept the light. Lucifer and Diana also have a child, Aradia. In this tradition, Lucifer is seen as the god of light, and masculine energy. One of the most influential sources for this tradition is The Gospel of the Witches by Charles Godfrey Leland.
Lucifer in Demonolatry
In demonolatry, Lucifer has many titles. Prince, King, Emperor, Lord. Lucifer is a demon of transformation, enlightenment, awakening, self-discovery, self-empowerment, and more. He is usually attributed to the element of air, and also pride.
Lucifer’s Associations
Anything with the * symbol next to it means that it is my own UPG.
Animals:
Snakes
Rams
Peacocks
Corvids (crows, ravens)
Cats
Spiders
Moths
Colors:
Black
Grey
Gold
Red
Teal
Blue, especially pale blue*
Purple*
Crystals:
Obsidian
Onyx
Hematite
Celestite
Seraphinite
Garnet
Sunstone
Clear quartz
Carnelian
Ruby
Copper
I am aware that copper isn’t a crystal.
Plants:
Apples
Pomegranates
Roses
Cinnamon
Cloves
Lavender
Blackberries
Sage
Black pepper
Garlic
Lilac
Hot peppers*
Other:
Stars
The number 7*
Spring equinox
Autumn equinox*
Offerings
Anything with the * symbol next to it is my own UPG.
Food and drink:
Strawberries
Blackberries
Chocolate
Apples
Pomegranates
Honey
Spicy foods*
Sweet things, especially baked goods
Juices, especially apple or grape
Coffee
Plants:
Roses
Other:
Feathers
Devotional Acts
Shadow work
Learn about the sciences or the arts
Create art of any kind
Face your fears
Learn about any of his associated animals
Magical workings, especially those that fall under his sphere of influence
Learning in general
Developing your psychic abilities and spiritual senses (the clairs)
Spiritual progression
My Experience With Lucifer
I started working with Lucifer about a month ago. I work with the demonic aspect of Lucifer. I work with him on matters of self improvement, self discovery, and self acceptance. In the short time I've worked with him, I've noticed a huge improvement in these areas of my life, and my overall mindset and mood. I have a schedule that I work with him on: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. My shadow work is also dedicated to him.
Lucifer's energy, to me, feels very strong/powerful but also comforting. Also like a close friend, and someone who will you tell you what you need to hear whether you want to hear it or not. He is very patient and understanding with me as well.
My main forms of communication with Lucifer are pendulum, clairaudience, and feelings. I connect with him most through meditation.