Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Satanism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👹
Add to dictionary

satanism

[ˈseɪtənɪzm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious practice

Satanism is a belief system that venerates Satan as a deity or symbol of individualism, rebellion, and freedom. It can encompass various philosophies, including atheistic and theistic interpretations. Some forms of Satanism emphasize personal empowerment and self-discovery, while others may involve rituals and beliefs centered on Satan as a supernatural being.

Synonyms

Luciferianism, demonology, devil worship.

Examples of usage

  • The Church of Satan promotes atheistic Satanism.
  • Many people misunderstand Satanism as purely evil.
  • Rituals in certain branches of Satanism may include symbolic acts.
  • Satanism can be a form of philosophical exploration.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'satanism'

The term 'Satanism' first came into use in the 19th century, stemming from earlier references to the worship of Satan throughout history. The concept of Satan as an oppositional force to the divine can be traced back to various religious texts, including the Bible. The development of modern Satanism was significantly influenced by the writings of figures like Anton LaVey, who founded the Church of Satan in 1966. LaVey's work emphasized atheistic Satanism, viewing Satan not as a literal being but as a symbol of ultimate freedom and individualism. As a result, various interpretations of Satanism emerged, ranging from theistic worship of Satan to interpretations focused on personal empowerment and secular philosophies.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,296, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.