Satanism

A Satanist is an individual who practices Satanism, a broad term that encompasses various philosophical, religious, and political systems that share a common symbol or figure of the character of Satan. The term "Satanist" can refer to someone who worships Satan as a deity, or it can describe individuals who follow a secular, humanistic, or atheistic interpretation of Satanism, such as The Satanic Temple or the Church of Satan. The Hebrew translation for "Satanist" is שטני (shatani). In French, it is sataniste, in Spanish satanista, and in German Satanist. Key contextual information includes the distinction between religious Satanism, which may involve the worship of Satan as a supernatural being, and philosophical or symbolic Satanism, which often uses Satan as a symbol of rebellion, individualism, or enlightenment. The Church of Satan, founded by Anton LaVey in 1966, is one of the most well-known organizations associated with Satanism, emphasizing individualism, self-indulgence, and ritual as a means of psychological reinforcement.