How Do I Convert to Satanism?

In spite of its name, Satanism has next to nothing in common with Satan from the Bible. Actually, Satanists do not even believe in the paranormal. Created by Anton LaVey in 1966, Satanism is a “religion” without a god and it focuses on strength, pride, and originality. Its core focus is on free thinking and individualism and free-thinking, and you only need to live your life according to a few simple tenets to be considered a Satanist.

There are no requirements for calling oneself a Satanist. There are a variety of Satanic organizations you can join, but membership is not needed. Indeed, some groups actively try to weed out those who wish to join primarily because they think membership is important, but Satanism only has a few basic principles about controlling your own life and finding and expressing inner strength and power, and you don't need a group to practice the principles. However, there are a few ways to be recognized officially.

Church of Satan Membership

Joining the Church of Satan requires a one-time $225 fee and an application form. In addition to the fee, you also need to compose a statement that you sign and date, requesting to join the Church of Satan. Check out the "Affiliation" link on the Church of Satan website for more information. Some questions in the application refer to The Satanic Bible. so read up before applying.

If you are an active member in the Church of Satan, you might be involved in church activities and be asked to represent Satanism at some events.

Rising through the hierarchy: If you live a good life as a Satanist, you can rise through the church ranks.

• The six ranks include: “Registered,” “Active Member,” “Witch/Warlock,” “Priestess/Priest,” “Magistra/Magister” and “Maga/Magus.”
• If you hold a third, fourth, or fifth degree, you are considered part of the Priesthood of Mendes, and given the title of “Reverend."

Temple of Set Membership

Membership in the Temple of Set requires an $80 annual fee. For more information and an application, check out the Temple's Affiliation page.

Practice Satanism

You don't have to apply to an organized group or pay money to be a Satanist — simply practice its principles, many of which can be found in The Satanic Bible which was written by the founder of the religion, Anton LaVey in 1966. Live according to The Nine Satanic Statements that guide the Satanic way of life.

Satan represents indulgence instead of abstinence!
Satan represents vital existence instead of spiritual pipe dreams!
Satan represents undefiled wisdom instead of hypocritical self-deceit!
Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it instead of love wasted on ingrates!
Satan represents vengeance instead of turning the other cheek!
Satan represents responsibility to the responsible instead of concern for psychic vampires!
Satan represents man as just another animal, sometimes better, more often worse than those that walk on all-fours, who, because of his “divine spiritual and intellectual development,” has become the most vicious animal of all!
Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental, or emotional gratification!
Satan has been the best friend the Church has ever had, as He has kept it in business all these years!

Similarly, follow the 11 Satanic Rules of the Earth. These rules are similar to the Ten Commandments — they dictate how you should live your life, and following them will bring goodness and prosperity.

Do not give opinions or advice unless you are asked.
Do not tell your troubles to others unless you are sure they want to hear them.
When in another’s lair, show him respect or else do not go there.
If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat him cruelly and without mercy.
Do not make sexual advances unless you are given the mating signal.
Do not take that which does not belong to you unless it is a burden to the other person and he cries out to be relieved.
Acknowledge the power of magic if you have employed it successfully to obtain your desires. If you deny the power of magic after having called upon it with success, you will lose all you have obtained.
Do not complain about anything to which you need not subject yourself.
Do not harm little children.
Do not kill non-human animals unless you are attacked or for your food.
When walking in open territory, bother no one. If someone bothers you, ask him to stop. If he does not stop, destroy him.