Selects: How Satanism Works

The Hebrew Bible, also known as the Tanakh, is a canonical collection of Hebrew scriptures divided into three main sections: the Torah (or Pentateuch), the Nevi'im (Prophets), and the Ketuvim (Writings). It contains 24 books and was written primarily in Hebrew, with some passages in Aramaic. The texts narrate the history and traditions of the Jewish people, including the creation of the world, the genealogy and history of the Israelites, and their relationship with God. The Hebrew Bible is central to both Judaism and Christianity, providing the foundational texts for these religions.

The Satanic Bible, written by Anton Szandor LaVey, is the central text of LaVeyan Satanism. Published in 1969, the book does not advocate the worship of Satan as a supernatural entity but rather uses 'Satan' as a symbol of humanistic values such as self-assertion, rebellion against unjust authority, and the celebration of human nature and carnal desires. The book is divided into two main sections: the first half expounds upon LaVey's philosophical views, while the second half describes rituals and recitations. It critiques traditional Christianity and other religions for promoting guilt and hypocrisy, instead promoting a lifestyle based on common sense and the acceptance of natural human desires.

Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights.

The Divine Comedy is an Italian narrative poem begun around 1308 and completed around 1321. It is divided into three parts: Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The poem discusses the state of the soul after death and presents an image of divine justice, describing Dante's travels through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. It is an allegory representing the soul's journey towards God, drawing on medieval Catholic theology and philosophy, especially Thomistic philosophy. The work is considered one of the greatest in Italian literature and Western literature, and it helped establish the Tuscan language as the standardized Italian language.

The Christian Old Testament is a collection of sacred texts that form the first part of the Christian Bible. It includes the Pentateuch, historical books, poetic and wisdom literature, and prophetic books. These texts cover themes such as creation, the history of the Israelites, divine justice, and the promise of redemption. The Old Testament is based on the Hebrew Bible, with variations in the number of books included across different Christian denominations.

Might Is Right, first published in 1896, is a provocative book that argues for the supremacy of individual strength and power as the basis of moral right. It rejects traditional moral codes and advocates for an amoral, egoistic worldview inspired by figures like Nietzsche and Stirner. The book has been influential across various philosophical and political spectrums.