Glossary - exWitch Australia (formerly 'Born Again Pagan')

LUCIFERIANISM

Luciferianism, like Satanism itself, has a multitude of forms; primarily being of a Traditionalist slant, and Modernist slant.

Traditional Luciferianism believes in an actual entity or force which is called Lucifer... the mythos varies considerably, as with Traditional Satanism. Some consider Lucifer to be the Christian fallen angel; others, to be an elder God who pre-dates Christianity, etc. Generally the difference between Traditional Satanism and Traditional Luciferianism is one of semantics and character-emphasis: that is, Traditional Satanism tends to focus on the nature of Satan, including characteristics which are "pre-packaged" with the name, such as the connotations of darkness, of "evil," and of anti-Christianity; whilst Traditional Luciferianism focuses on Lucifer, and the characteristics of knowledge, light, and "betterment" which come semantically bound with the name. This is not, of course, the only interpretation of "Lucifer." Noteably, the Children of the Black Rose seem to believe that Lucifer is the All of the universe, neither male nor female, neither good nor evil, everything and nothing all together.

Traditional Luciferian groups seem to be few and far between. The Church Lucifer (or Children of the Black Rose) seem to be a well-established and organized group, who claim a generational form of Satanism leading back several thousand years - though few outside the group give credance to that particular claim. They are allied with the First Church of Satan, which is also a Traditional Satanism organization. You can find more information on both in the Traditional Satanism section.

Modern Luciferianism, like the Symbolist stance of Modern Satanism takes a stance that Lucifer is depicted as a mythic figure or symbol which represents admirable qualities or characteristics. Primary among these characteristics are knowledge, independance, pride, and mastery of self. Lucifer is seen as the Lightbearer; the bringer of knowledge and truth. As a being of both fire (light) and air (wisdom), he is characterized by sunlight, wind, and fire. However, in acknowledgement of the dual nature of widom/knowledge, and the fact that it can be used for both "good" and "ill," he is also represented, to a lesser degree, by the traditional "darkness" associated with Satanism. These qualities are viewed not only as admirable, but as highly desireable to achieve in one's life. In effect, one wishes to "become Lucifer."

This does not, however, entail worshipping the figure or doing obscure demonologic rituals to empower oneself. It is more accurately described as a conscious effort of constant self-improvement through learning and effort. Small steps of self-betterment, as visible through an increase in material or emotional well-being: a promotion, a car, a new lover, a steady relationship, etc. Magick may or may not be used towards these ends; usually it is lesser magick (wish-magick) which is employed.

It should be noted that, although it is true that most see Luciferianism as a "denomination" of Satanism, there are some who see the two as distinct religious pathways and even many Traditional Luciferians are adamently opposed to Satanism, and strongly dislike the implication that Luciferianism and Satanism are one and the same.

It should also be noted by all, that neither Luciferianism nor Satanism is, in any way, a part of or allied to, Wicca and/or other forms of Neo-Pagan Witchcraft and should, properly, be seen as seperate 'entities' entirely.

see also: LUCIFER; LEFT HAND PATH; SATAN; SATANISM

PLEASE NOTE:
One of the major problems with 'defining' Paganism and/or its beliefs and practices is that it is an 'organic' movement, in that it is undergoing constant change and re-evaluation from within, and as such any 'one-size-fits-all' approach to understanding Paganism will be found wanting.

Due to the very 'organic' nature of Paganism, and the many differing Paths and Traditions within it, in many cases no one definition may be universally accepted by all Pagans. Therefore, where such cases of possible conflicting and/or contradictory meanings of certain terms occur I have endevoured to give not only the generally accepted meaning, but also any major 'variations' in belief and/or practice.

Christians who believe this difference in meaning of certain key terms, beliefs and practices to be unique to Paganism need to remember that such conflicts also arise within the Body of Christ - the Church. Take for instance the differing practices amongst Christians concerning Baptism and the different attitudes towards women in the clergy.

- Jean-Luc