"Categorizing Satanism: Moojan Momen's 8 Pathways to Religious Experience" by Vexen Crabtree (2007). The categories are not designed so that each religion fits one category; most religions cater for multiple types of religious experience. The more successful religions accept more types of religious experience. How does Satanism fit with each mindset?

1. Ritualism
2. Legalism
3. Evangelism
4. Social Reformation
5. Asceticism
6. Monasticism
7. Gnosticism
8. Mysticism

The conclusion reads:

Satanism provides some acceptable elements for those looking for: ritualism (2/5), social reformation reactions (2/5), some philosophical forms of asceticism (2/5) but most of all for those who enjoy the intellectual and counter-cultural side of gnostic forms of religion (4/5). It will be acceptable to only the few mystics (1/5) who can ignore the heavily skeptical and rational theology of Satanism. It provides nothing for those who would seek out, or attempt to justify, legalistic, evangelical or monastic religious experiences as Satanism is highly individual, socially decentralised and world-embracing.

Tags: anton lavey, asceticism, comparative religion, evangelism, gnosticism, legalism, momen, monasticism, moojan momen, mysticism, religion, religions, ritualism, satanism
Current Location: Monchengladbach, Germany
Current Mood: annoyed
Listening To: "Nothing At All" by Lights of Euphoria

"When [the body] is worn down and exhausted by hunger and thirst, the mind in its turn must feel the strain, that mental organ which must reap the fruit. No, inward calm is needed for success! Inward calm cannot be maintained unless physical strength is constantly and intelligently replenished. Only if the body is reasonably nourished can undue strain on the mind be avoided"

"Buddhist Sciptures" by Edward Conze p46
Quotes text from "Buddhacarita" by Ashvaghosha, vi 14-8,21-2,43-52

Tags: asceticism, buddhism, david blaine, exhaustion, health
Current Mood: blank
Listening To: "Cyberchrist" by Chaingun Operate