How to Become a Satanist: A Guide to Finding Your Path

So, you’ve been exploring alternative spirituality or are simply curious, and you’re wondering “How do I become a Satanist?” The very question can sound daunting, thanks to all the misconceptions around Satanism. But becoming a Satanist isn’t about selling your soul or getting a 666 tattoo (unless you want that!). It’s largely a personal, philosophical decision to embrace Satanism’s principles of individualism, skepticism, and self-empowerment. In the U.S. and many parts of the world, modern Satanism is a recognized religious/philosophical path with organizations like the Church of Satan and The Satanic Temple, as well as many independent practitioners. This guide will walk you through steps on becoming a Satanist – from understanding what Satanism actually is, to deciding which form resonates with you, to practical actions like setting up an altar or (optionally) joining a group. We’ll dispel myths (no, you don’t need to partake in any criminal or harmful acts) and emphasize that becoming a Satanist is ultimately about embracing your true self and questioning religious norms. Whether you’re a curious seeker or someone ready to step onto the Left-Hand Path, read on for a roadmap to starting a Satanic journey.

Understand What Satanism Is (and Isn’t)

Before taking any steps, it’s critical to know what Satanism actually entails. Pop culture and scare stories have painted an inaccurate picture. Modern Satanism, especially LaVeyan Satanism (the philosophy founded by Anton LaVey), is atheistic and does not worship the Devil of Christian belief. Instead, “Satan” is seen as a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and the carnal nature of humanity. As the Church of Satan often states: “We don’t worship Satan; we worship ourselves using Satan as a symbol of pride, liberty, and individualism”. There are also theistic Satanists who do venerate a being called Satan or Lucifer, but their perspective on Satan is not “the embodiment of evil” – they see Satan as a valid deity who champions free will or as a dark father figure.

Key things to know:

• No belief in the Christian Satan: If you’re coming from a Christian background, it’s important to flip the script. Satanists do not believe in or fear the Christian God or Devil. If anything, they see that whole narrative as flawed or oppressive. LaVeyan Satanists are basically atheists. Theistic Satanists believe in a spiritual being but view that being in a positive or complex light (for example, Lucifer as the bringer of knowledge, not as a tempter into sin for sin’s sake).

• Morality: Satanists have morals, but they are self-determined. There’s no rule to be cruel or anything. In fact, many Satanic groups strongly advocate against harming animals or children. The common ethic is “responsibility to the responsible” and kindness to those who deserve it, but not turning the other cheek to aggressors. So, being a Satanist doesn’t mean you throw all ethics out; it means you reject imposed morals and instead follow your own code that typically centers on individual liberty, justice (in your eyes), and pragmatic kindness.

• No required rituals or “initiation by crime”: Unlike the lurid myths, you do not have to kill, steal, or vandalize churches to become a Satanist – in fact, if you do those things, you’re likely just a criminal, not a true Satanist, and will be disavowed by Satanic organizations. The journey is more intellectual and spiritual: reading, self-reflection, perhaps a symbolic ritual of self-dedication.

• Satanism is about self-empowerment and questioning dogma: If one phrase sums it up, a popular one is “self-deification” – seeing yourself as your own master or god. It’s about shedding guilt and fear instilled by other religions and embracing your natural desires and instincts in a responsible way. If you resonate with ideas like individualism, anti-hypocrisy, indulgence in life (instead of abstaining for an afterlife), and personal accountability, then Satanism’s philosophy will probably click for you.

Action: Start by reading fundamental texts. Anton LaVey’s The Satanic Bible is a primary one. Even if you end up theistic, LaVey’s work outlines the basics of modern Satanic thought: the Nine Satanic Statements, Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth, etc., which give a sense of the mindset (e.g., Statement One: “Satan represents indulgence instead of abstinence!”). Another great source is the website of the Church of Satan – their FAQ and essays (like “Fundamental Beliefs” on their site) address common questions and denounce harmful misconceptions. If you lean more Luciferian (spiritual but with similar ethos), look up Michael W. Ford’s works or the Luciferian Apotheca. And for Theistic Satanism, Joy of Satan’s materials or Theistic Satanism by Diane Vera might be places to explore (with caution and critical thinking, as not all sources are equal). The key here is educate yourself so you know what you’re getting into – and you can explain it to yourself and maybe to others when inevitably asked “Why Satanist? Are you evil?”

By fully understanding Satanism’s true principles, you’ll be prepared to walk the path intelligently and confidently, rather than based on edgy myths or peer pressure. Once you get it, you might internally already feel: “Yes, this aligns with how I think/feel.” That feeling is the first real step to becoming a Satanist – the mental shift.

Decide What Type of Satanist You Want to Be

Satanism isn’t one-size-fits-all. Broadly, there are two (or three) main branches:

• Atheistic Satanism (Symbolic Satanism): Exemplified by LaVeyan Satanism and the Church of Satan, as well as The Satanic Temple (though TST has its own twist with activism). Here, Satan is a symbol, not a literal being. Rituals, if performed, are psychodramas for self-help or celebration, not worship. The focus is on philosophy and lifestyle. If you’re very rationalist or anti-religion but love the archetype of Satan as rebel, this path is likely for you. For instance, The Satanic Temple’s seven tenets emphasize compassion, reason, and bodily autonomy in a nontheistic framework, which might appeal if you want a more socially conscious form.

• Theistic Satanism (Spiritual Satanism): This covers those who actually believe in and revere Satan/Lucifer as a deity or force. There are subsets here: some are more Luciferian (emphasizing Lucifer as the light-bringer and possibly a more intellectual, enlightenment vibe) and some are outright devil-worshipers (reclaiming that term, seeing Satan as their god or father figure). If you have an occult or pagan inclination and want that devotional aspect, this might be your route. Groups like the Temple of Set (though Set is not “Satan” per se, they align with that archetype) or various independent covens might fall here. Theistic Satanists often do prayers, rituals to Satan, etc., akin to how a Christian might pray to God, but with their own twist. They might refer to their path as “spiritual Satanism” or “Devil worship” (positively).

• Eclectic or Outsider Satanist: It’s entirely valid to be a Satanist on your own terms without joining any group. Many do this. You can choose which aspects of the above resonate and ignore the rest. For example, you might privately honor “Satan” as a symbol when you need strength, but you don’t formally affiliate with CoS or any temple. Or you might be an atheistic Satanist most days, but occasionally pray to an idea of Satan when facing hardship, in a quasi-symbolic way. Since Satanism values individualism, customizing your path is practically encouraged.

Take time to reflect: Are you drawn to rituals and a sense of spiritual presence? Then maybe theistic forms suit you. Do you instead prefer a philosophical stance and maybe some theatrical but non-literal ritual? Then atheistic Satanism (LaVeyan style) is for you. Are you motivated by political or social aspects (like using Satan as a symbol to fight for secularism and social justice)? Then The Satanic Temple’s approach might resonate – they are non-theistic but focus on campaigns for religious freedom, science, and compassion.

You don’t have to lock into one forever. Some people move from one to another as their beliefs evolve. But having a starting point will direct your next steps – e.g., the books you read, whether you seek out a community, what kind of altar you set up.

Action: If possible, connect with current Satanists (online forums, local meetups if any) and politely ask about their experience in these paths. Places like the r/Satanism subreddit can have a mix of CoS and TST folks discussing differences. Read up on Theistic Satanist blogs and see if their experiences speak to you (keeping an eye out for any culty red flags; stick to those who encourage critical thought). Essentially, do a bit of “soul-searching” – ironically, yes – to sense which form of Satanism aligns with your values and view of the world.

Remember, there is no central authority saying you must declare “I am now a Satanist of X type.” This is a personal journey, so you can self-identify as you see fit once you’re comfortable with the philosophy. As one writer put it, “In Satanism, you are your own priest. You make the decision when you consider yourself a Satanist.” That leads to…

Make a Personal Commitment (Internal Dedication)

Becoming a Satanist doesn’t involve a formal conversion ceremony like baptism – unless you want it to. Many find it meaningful to mark the decision with a personal ritual or declaration. This can be very simple or as elaborate as you like:

• Private Declaration: At its simplest, becoming a Satanist can be as straightforward as one day realizing, “I hold Satanic principles. I am a Satanist.” Some actually recommend standing in front of a mirror, looking yourself in the eye, and saying out loud: “I am a Satanist. I embrace Satan, the adversary, as a symbol (or deity) of my personal freedom. I am my own master.” Or something along those lines that feels empowering. This may sound trivial, but speaking it can solidify the commitment in your mind.

• Self-Dedication Ritual: If you enjoy ritual, you could create a ceremony to formalize your entry onto the path. This doesn’t send off a notification to any devil – it’s primarily psychological and symbolic. One example for an atheistic Satanist: Light a black candle on a makeshift altar. Have a piece of paper where you write a statement of what you’re shedding (e.g., “I renounce any oppressive ideology that kept me in fear. I renounce serving any god or master. I stand forth as my own god.”) and what you’re embracing (“I embrace the title of Satanist – the adversary, the one who questions – and the joy and responsibility it carries”). You could read LaVey’s Nine Satanic Statements aloud or any passages that inspire you. Some choose to prick their finger and sign their name in blood on a certificate of dedication – totally optional and purely symbolic. Burning the paper after reading it can be a way of “sending” your commitment into the ether. Then you might say “Hail Satan!” as a closing. This kind of ritual has no supernatural effect in atheistic Satanism, but it’s a strong cathartic moment of “This is it. I’ve chosen my path.”

• For a theistic-leaning person, the ritual might include a prayer to Satan or Lucifer directly: inviting them into your life, asking for guidance. You could light two candles (one representing you, one representing Satan), then symbolically bring their flames together or light your candle from his to show connection. You could recite something like a Lord’s Prayer in reverse or an original prayer to Satan acknowledging him as a source of wisdom and rebellion you cherish.

• No Ritual Option: If you’re not into ritual, that’s fine. As Catherine Beyer (a writer on alternative religions) notes, “There are no requirements for calling oneself a Satanist… membership is not needed”. You might just quietly adopt the label and start living by Satanic tenets day by day. Many people slide into Satanism gradually without a specific “on this day I became a Satanist” – it might be a realization after months of study that “Hey, I agree with all this; I guess I am a Satanist.”

The important part is mental commitment. If you previously belonged to another faith, you may also need to internally break from that. Some perform a “reverse baptism” or “blasphemy ritual” to cast off their old religious indoctrination – e.g., reading renunciations of their former faith, or doing something symbolic like burning a page of scripture from that faith (just be safe and respectful of legality – don’t steal a Quran or something; we’re talking personal symbolic action with your own property). The Church of Satan has a ritual called the “Ceremony of the Stifling Air” which is basically a formal goodbye to Christianity for a new Satanist (in LaVey’s The Satanic Rituals). While optional, such acts can help you psychologically sever ties and guilt that linger from previous beliefs.

One more thing: There’s no age or timing requirement. Some people “convert” in their teens, others at 50 after leaving a church. Legally, if you’re a minor, you might not want to broadcast it in a hostile environment (more on that later), but you can still privately decide it. If you’re older, no one’s going to say you’re too late to join the devil’s team – there are Satanists of all ages.

Live by Satanic Principles

Declaring yourself a Satanist is one part; living as a Satanist is the real journey. The core of this is embodying the philosophy in your daily life:

• Embrace Individualism and Self-Responsibility: Start asserting your autonomy in life. This means taking responsibility for your successes and failures (no blaming “fate” or expecting divine rescue). If something goes wrong, a Satanist finds a solution rather than prays for one. If you want something, a Satanist works toward it unapologetically (provided it’s within reason and doesn’t violate someone’s informed rights). It also means pursuing your passions and interests without guilt (so long as you’re not harming innocents). For example, if you love heavy metal or belly dancing or starting a business – go for it fully, without thinking “is this sinful or too prideful?” In Satanism, pride is a virtue, not a sin (as long as it’s earned pride). Indulge in life’s pleasures – good food, sexuality, art, rest – in a balanced way. Denying yourself just to seem pious is not Satanic.

• Question and Learn: Adopt a stance of skepticism and curiosity. Don’t accept claims at face value – whether from religious authorities, conspiracy theories, or even other occultists. The Church of Satan encourages examining everything critically. For instance, if someone says “Satanists sacrifice animals,” you now know that’s false and can explain why, rather than taking it on the chin. Continue reading and expanding your knowledge: philosophy, science, comparative religion. A well-informed mind is a powerful tool for a Satanist because it frees you from ignorance (which LaVey considered one of the worst sins in his “Nine Satanic Sins” essay).

• Uphold the “Rules of the Earth”: Anton LaVey laid out Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth. They’re not like commandments from God, but they’re pragmatic guidelines. For example: “Do not give advice or opinion unless asked” (i.e., no one likes a busybody; respect others’ space); “If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat them cruelly and without mercy” (i.e., set boundaries in your own home – you don’t have to be a doormat); “Do not harm little children” (self-explanatory, an ethical line in the sand); “When walking in open territory, bother no one – if someone bothers you, ask them to stop; if they continue, destroy them” (metaphorically, it means stand up for yourself decisively when harassed). Try to integrate these kind of principles. You’ll find they promote mutual respect and assertiveness. For example, as a new Satanist, you might start speaking up more if someone tries to take advantage of you, whereas before you might have quietly resented it. Or you cut off a friend who constantly drains you (a “psychic vampire” in Satanic lingo), which is following the idea of not wasting your time on ingrates.

• Use Magic/Ritual as Useful (Optional): If you are inclined to perform Satanic rituals or magic, incorporate them as needed into your life. For atheistic Satanists, rituals are often used as a form of emotional release or focus (like doing a destruction ritual to vent anger instead of lashing out inappropriately). For theistic ones, rituals might be more devotional or for asking Satan’s aid in something. Don’t feel pressure to do any if it’s not your thing – you can be a Satanist without ever lighting a candle. But if you enjoy that side, create a routine. You could mark Walpurgisnacht (April 30, the founding date of CoS) or Halloween with a personal ritual every year, as many do, since those are like unofficial Satanic “holidays”. Or practice simple meditations where you visualize empowering Satanic imagery (like imagining yourself with Satan standing behind you lending strength when you face a fear).

• Cultivate Self-Empowerment and Improvement: Satanism is a path of self-empowerment. This might mean actively working to improve your skills, education, career, or physical health – because as a Satanist, you cherish this life and want to live it fully. Set goals that matter to you and pursue them with the motivation that you answer only to yourself. Many Satanists find that once they shed external guilt and realize they are their own master, they become more driven to succeed on their own terms. Whether that success is material, creative, or personal, it fits the Satanic ethos to be the best version of you. As LaVey put it, “Life is the great indulgence – death, the great abstinence. Therefore, make the most of life – here and now!”.

• Handle Social Aspects Wisely: Now, living as a Satanist doesn’t mean advertising it everywhere (depending on your environment). We’ll discuss in a later point about who to tell or not tell. But in practice, it might mean you subtly incorporate Satanic aesthetics or references in ways that feel right. Maybe you wear a Baphomet pendant under your shirt as a personal totem. Or maybe you don’t display anything but quietly smile to yourself knowing you no longer feel shackled by, say, church teachings that once made you anxious. Living Satanically might simply mean you approach situations differently: for example, if someone tries to guilt-trip you via religious reasoning, you internally roll your eyes and stick to your stance because you no longer subscribe to their premise.

In short, becoming a Satanist is more about mindset and lifestyle than any ceremony or membership card. As one source from LearnReligions notes: “You don't have to apply to an organized group or pay money to be a Satanist — simply practice its principles”. That’s exactly it. By aligning your actions and attitudes with Satanic ideals (self-worth, critical thinking, enjoyment of life, personal accountability, and respect for those who respect you), you are a Satanist in essence.

(Optional) Set Up a Satanic Altar or Sacred Space

While not required, many new Satanists find it meaningful to create a small altar or ritual space. This serves as a physical focal point for your Satanic practice or just a personal reminder of your values. It can be as discreet or elaborate as your situation allows. Here’s how you might do it:

• Choose a Location: Ideally, somewhere private where others won’t disturb it or react negatively. It could be a top of a dresser, a bookshelf, a corner of your room. If you live with family or people who wouldn’t understand, you might use something that can be hidden (like a shoe box you slide under the bed with your altar items, then set it up when you have alone time).

• Altar Cloth: Many use a black cloth to cover the altar surface (black representing the Satanic aesthetic, the void, etc.). But you can choose any color or none. Some like red (for lust/passion) or purple (for power).

• Symbol of Satan: Most Satanists have the Sigil of Baphomet (inverted pentagram with goat head) as the altar centerpiece. You can buy a plaque, print a picture, or draw it yourself. The Church of Satan considers this the prime symbol of Satanism. If you are Luciferian, maybe an image of Lucifer (like a statue or famous art like Lucifer by Gustave Doré) might speak to you more. If you’re uncomfortable displaying that openly, keep it in a drawer and only put it out during personal rituals.

• Candles and Lighting: Candles are staple for ambiance. Black candles are common; you might also use others for specific workings (white for a meditative calm ritual, red for a lust ritual, etc.). Have safe candle holders. Alternatively or additionally, you can have a small lamp or colored lightbulb for that dim, ritual effect if open flames aren’t practical.

• Chalice: A chalice or fancy-looking cup can represent the element of water or be used to hold a drink for toasting Satan. It could be any goblet – some buy a cheap wine goblet. You might fill it with wine, juice, or water during rituals as an “elixir” symbolic of life’s pleasures (LaVey used it sometimes in rituals).

• Athame (Ritual Dagger): Not strictly necessary, but many like having a decorative dagger or knife to represent the element of Air and for pointing/marking in ritual. It’s more ceremonial; it’s not used to cut anything physical usually. If you can’t have a dagger (minors likely can’t wave that around at home), you can use a knife-shaped letter opener or even just your finger to direct energy symbolically.

• Bells or Gongs: LaVeyan ritual sometimes involves ringing a bell to mark the beginning and end of ritual (the sound “clears the air”). Any small bell can do. Not mandatory, but if you like ritual structure, it’s an easy tool.

• Personal Items and Decorations: This is your space, so personalize it. Perhaps you place a figure of a goat or a snake (animals often associated with Satanic imagery). Maybe you have a cool piece of antler or a crystal that has meaning to you. Some Satanists include photos or names of people they care about (or want to do magic on) on the altar during relevant rituals. If you practice witchcraft, you might put herbs, a pentacle tile, etc.

• Keep it Symbolic and Empowering: The goal is when you see this altar, it should inspire you and make you feel strong and connected to your path. If any item doesn’t do that, it doesn’t belong there. For some, a small mirror on the altar – symbolizing that you are your own god (you literally face yourself) – is powerful. The Church of Satan often emphasizes looking at one’s reflection during certain rituals as a reminder of self-deification.

Remember, an altar is optional. It doesn’t make you a Satanist or not. It’s a tool. If you can’t have one now, you can always set one up later when circumstances allow. Some use a “portable altar” idea: a box with altar items they only set up and unpack when they’re alone – one of the resources referenced suggests exactly that for those who need discretion.

If you do make one, treat it with respect, as it represents your values. You might want to keep it tidy and not let random people touch it (to avoid their potentially judgmental or anxious energy interfering, if you believe in that). It’s your little slice of Satanic sanctuary.

(Optional) Connect with the Satanic Community

This step is not mandatory – many Satanists are solitary, by preference or necessity. But you may find it enriching to communicate with others who share your views:

• Join Online Forums/Groups: There are various online communities: subreddits (r/Satanism for broad discussion, r/ChurchofSatan or r/SatanicTemple for specific orgs, etc.), Facebook groups (some city-based or theme-based Satanic groups), Discord servers for Satanists, etc. When joining, observe for a while and see the vibe. Some forums lean more snarky CoS style, others are more support-chatty. Engaging in discussions can teach you a lot – plus you can ask newbie questions anonymously that you might hesitate to ask publicly. Remember to be respectful; Satanists appreciate you doing some homework first, rather than asking something like “How do I summon a demon to get revenge on my ex?” right off the bat (that might be taken unseriously).

• Attend Meetings or Events (if available): In some areas, local Satanists or TST chapters hold meet-and-greets, public rituals, or activism events. If you align with The Satanic Temple, they have official chapters in many major cities that gather for community projects or occasional ceremonies (which are often politically oriented or protest art, like the famous Baphomet statue unveiling event). The Church of Satan doesn’t have local “churches”, but they sometimes have members host meetups or events at conventions. Look out for events around Walpurgisnacht or Halloween – those are common times for public events. Use caution and common sense about safety (meet in public places, etc).

• Consider Membership in an Organization: This is entirely optional and many Satanists never formally join anything. However, if you feel strongly about one organization’s mission, you might apply. For instance:

  • Church of Satan (CoS): You fill out an application and pay a one-time fee (currently $225) to register as a member. CoS membership is fairly private – they don’t have meetings; it’s more about being counted among the members and possibly later applying for active membership if you want to represent them. Some join CoS for a sense of personal validation or access to member forums, but it’s not necessary to be a Satanist at all. Note CoS is not interested in under-18 applicants, typically.

  • The Satanic Temple (TST): They don’t have a membership fee; you can become a registered member by signing up online (optionally you can get a membership card by donation). TST is more like an activist group; joining might allow you to participate in local chapter activities if a chapter is active near you.

  • Temple of Set: If you lean that way, they have an application and initiation process (but that’s a whole other path, arguably not “Satanism” in name but related).

  • Other Groups: Many theistic Satanist groups are small or online-based. Be careful with groups demanding heavy obedience or money. Main rule: A legitimate Satanic group will not ask you to do anything violating your autonomy or harming others illegally – if they do, get out. There are unfortunately some abusive cults that misuse satanic imagery; avoid any that require “extreme” proofs of loyalty. Legit orgs like CoS or TST basically just want you to understand their tenets and either pay dues or not, and then you’re largely left to live your life as you will.

Benefits of connecting with others include camaraderie (finally, people who don’t clutch their pearls when you say you’re a Satanist!), opportunities to learn from veterans, and collaboration on projects or rituals. It can help you stay engaged and deepen your understanding. On the flip side, Satanism attracts some strong personalities – sometimes egos clash. If you find community interactions draining or not your style, it’s okay to step back. Independence is a core aspect of Satanism, so you never “have to” be part of a club.

Navigate Social Challenges (Be Discreet If Needed)

One of the practical aspects of “becoming a Satanist” is dealing with how (or if) you tell others. Because Satanism is widely misunderstood, you should be strategic:

• Who to Tell: You are not obligated to announce your religious beliefs to anyone (much like one’s politics or sex life, it can be a private matter). If you suspect family or friends will react with extreme fear, anger, or try to “save” you in unpleasant ways, you might choose not to tell them at all, or not until you’re more independent. For example, if you’re a teenager in a very religious household, announcing “I’m a Satanist” could result in punishment or forced interventions. In such cases, it might be wiser to practice quietly, at least until you’re of age or out of that environment.

• Talking to Friends: Gauge your friends individually. Many younger people today are more open-minded. You could explain it not in a shocking “I worship Satan!” way but rather, “I’ve been reading about modern Satanism – it’s not what people think. I find I agree with a lot of it, like its emphasis on individual freedom and not hurting the innocent. I think I align with it.” If you present it calmly and informatively, some friends might even be intrigued. Focus on the philosophy, not just the word “Satan” which triggers knee-jerk reactions. You know your friends best – some may have strong religious convictions that make this a deal-breaker; others may not care or might already suspect you’re on a unique path.

• Family Considerations: With family, especially parents, it’s tricky. If they are staunchly against anything “occult,” telling them might strain relationships. Some Satanists never explicitly tell their family, they just live their life and maybe their family notices they don’t go to church anymore or have different viewpoints. If confronted, you can choose to sidestep (“I’m not a Christian, I have my own beliefs”) or gently correct their misbeliefs if you think they’ll listen. For instance: “Mom, Dad – I know the word ‘Satanist’ sounds scary, but for me it’s not about evil or crime. It’s a philosophy that encourages self-determination and personal responsibility. I don’t sacrifice animals or any nonsense like that. I still love you and I’m still the same person, I’ve just chosen a different spiritual path that makes sense to me.” That might or might not fly, but it’s an approach.

• Workplace/School: Generally, it’s advisable to keep religious identities personal in professional or formal settings, unless you’re very secure and it’s relevant. Unfortunately, bias exists; someone hears “Satanist” and could cause drama or prejudice. You’re within your rights to practice any religion, but others’ ignorance can make it problematic. Many Satanists do not advertise it at work or school beyond maybe subtle jewelry or such that only those “in the know” would recognize (like wearing a ring with a goat head design – most won’t think twice, but someone who is aware might guess).

• Legal Rights: In the U.S., Satanism is protected by religious freedom laws. The U.S. military, for instance, recognizes Satanism as a religion that servicemembers can list and there are Satanic chaplains (not chaplains, but you know – recognition in the chaplain's handbook). If you ever face discrimination (like being fired solely for being a Satanist which you didn’t even bring into work), know that legally you’d have a case similarly as if you were fired for being Jewish or Muslim. But practically, going to court is a big ordeal – so it’s often easier to avoid conflict by not making it an issue publicly.

• Personal Relationships: If you have a partner or plan to, being with someone who at least respects your beliefs is important. Some Satanists date only fellow Satanists or like-minded occultists because it’s easier. Others date anyone but just maintain an understanding. Communication is key: if you have a significant other, it’s fair to eventually let them know this is part of you, and educate them so they don’t harbor some secret fear (“is my partner sacrificing cats at night?”). If they care about you, they’ll listen and try to understand even if they don’t share the belief. If they react horribly and try to force you to change, that’s something to consider in the viability of the relationship.

Discretion vs. Pride: Many Satanists take pride in the title and aren’t ashamed, but they also follow the principle of “lesser magic” (LaVey’s term for manipulating appearances to your advantage). Sometimes, not revealing something is just wise. You can be a proud Satanist in your heart without wearing a giant inverted cross on your shirt to your grandma’s house. Pick your battles. The Church of Satan actually often suggests members not unnecessarily out themselves in hostile environments because Satanism is about stratification and understanding context – you don’t treat everyone the same if they haven’t earned that familiarity.

Over time, as you get more confident and possibly as society keeps shifting, you might be more open. The Satanic Temple has brought a lot of media attention that somewhat normalized talking about Satanists as non-supernatural, ethical people – that might help in explaining to folks if needed.

Continue Learning and Evolving

Becoming a Satanist isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s an ongoing path of self-improvement, exploration, and affirmation. Keep the momentum:

• Read Widely: Beyond the basics, delve into related literature. Read the essays on the Church of Satan website like “Satanism: The Feared Religion” (by Peter Gilmore) for deeper insight. Check out The Satanic Scriptures (a compilation of essays by Gilmore) if you lean CoS, or Revolt of the Angels by Anatole France (a classic novel with Satanic themes) for inspiration. If theistic, explore grimoires or mythologies of Lucifer (like reading Paradise Lost by Milton to see a literary sympathetic view of Lucifer). Knowledge is power.

• Refine Your Practice: If you do rituals, over time you’ll figure out what works best for you. Maybe you find you prefer solitary meditation over ceremonial ritual – that’s fine. Or you might create your own rituals, like a personal one for each birthday to celebrate yourself (some Satanists do self-“Unholy” baptism or a ritual each birthday to reaffirm their dedication to enjoying another year). There’s great freedom to innovate.

• Set Personal Goals: Perhaps you want to harness your Satanic mindset to accomplish real-world goals. Many find that since adopting Satanism, they feel more in charge of their destiny and thus able to chase ambitions without self-doubt or divine dependency. Identify areas you want to strengthen (career, artistic skill, education, relationships) and approach them with that can-do, self-reliant attitude. Some Satanists perform a ritual called a “Statement of Intent” where they clearly voice what they intend to achieve – this is basically like psychological programming or magic to galvanize them.

• Stay Critical and Individual: Even within Satanism, avoid dogma. The irony would be if someone left one religion just to blindly follow everything LaVey or any leader said. True Satanic practice encourages you to think for yourself always. You might agree with 90% of the literature but disagree with 10% – that’s okay. For instance, LaVey had some Social Darwinist streaks in his writing; maybe you feel that’s less applicable in your worldview. You don’t have to parrot it to be a Satanist. The core measure is: Are you embracing Satan (symbolic or literal) as representing your approach to life (one of personal sovereignty and questioning norms)? If yes, then you are walking the path.

• Enjoy the Journey: Satanism is often called a “celebration of life.” So enjoy it. Enjoy the little rebellious thrill of being an “adversary” in a world that often expects conformity. Not everyone gets to choose their belief system freely – you did. That’s a win. Enjoy the community’s often wicked sense of humor, the music and art (maybe you’ll delve into Satanic Panic-era heavy metal or dark art – it’s fun and part of the cultural side of Satanism). Use the confidence you gain to try new experiences. One anecdote: some people became more outgoing or tried things they were shy about before, after embracing Satanism, because they stopped judging themselves through others’ eyes and started living authentically.

Becoming a Satanist is ultimately about empowering yourself and living on your own terms, with Satan as the emblem of that philosophy. There’s no singular rite or test – it’s a personal declaration followed by daily living in accordance with those ideals. As you walk this path, you may face misunderstanding from others, but you’ll also likely feel a great sense of liberation and strength. You have cast off fear and subservience in favor of self-love and personal freedom.

In the words of a Church of Satan FAQ: “The first step is the realization that you already are one.” If everything you’ve read about Satanism resonates deeply, you might find that you’ve been a Satanist in spirit for a while and only now discovered the label. In that case – welcome to the beginning of a journey where you are the master of your destiny, the captain of your soul (to paraphrase Invictus). Hail yourself – and Hail Satan, the symbol of your own liberated self!