The Devil You Know with Sarah Marshall A second helping from Satan: SATANISM 101
Nov 27, 2025
Dr. Justin Sledge, a professor of philosophy and religion and host of the YouTube channel Esoterica, shares his unique journey from a teenager tangled in a supposed satanic plot to an academic expert on esotericism. He dives into definitions of the occult and various forms of Satanism, and explores how the concept of Satan evolved from an accuser in Hebrew scripture to a cosmic villain. Justin highlights the historical context of anti-Semitism and modern conspiracy theories like QAnon, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in combating moral panics.
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Academic Vs. Practical Esotericism
- Justin Sledge defines academic study of esotericism as using evidence, history, and logic rather than practice or revelation.
- He contrasts scholarly inquiry with practitioners who claim spirit contact or divine revelations.
Occult, Wicca And Modern Satanism
- Justin Sledge explains the occult as 'the hidden' and part of a Western hidden tradition aimed at manipulating unseen dimensions.
- He distinguishes Wicca as a modern pagan religion and LaVeyan Satanism as largely atheistic and self-focused.
Satan's Origins As 'The Accuser'
- The Satan in the Hebrew Bible is a title meaning 'the accuser' and functions as a servant of God, not an opponent.
- The figure transforms into a rebellious fallen angel in later apocalyptic Jewish and Christian writings.
