The words theistic and non-theistic describe a basic theological difference: whether Satan is understood as a real spiritual being or primarily as a symbol, archetype, or literary figure. They do not by themselves tell you everything about a person’s ethics, politics, ritual style, or community.
Theistic Satanism
Theistic Satanists understand Satan as real in a religious or spiritual sense. Depending on the tradition, practice may include devotion, ritual, meditation, study, or attempts at spiritual communion. The High Satanic Church belongs to this broad category.
Non-theistic Satanism
Well-known organisations such as the Church of Satan and The Satanic Temple are non-theistic. Their philosophies, histories, and public activities differ from each other, so grouping them together should not erase those differences.
Why careful language matters
Calling one side “real” and the other “fake” may be rhetorically satisfying, but it does not help a visitor understand the actual distinction. On this site we therefore state the relevant fact directly: this congregation worships Satan as a deity; those organisations do not.
Choosing a community
Compare an organisation’s own public materials, governance, costs, expectations, privacy practices, and conduct rules. A label is less informative than what a group actually asks members to believe and do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can theistic and non-theistic Satanism use similar symbols?
Yes. Shared symbols or names do not imply shared theology, governance, or organisational affiliation.
Is The Satanic Temple theistic?
No. The Satanic Temple describes itself in non-theistic terms.
What is the High Satanic Church’s position?
The High Satanic Church is theistic: it worships Satan as a real spiritual being and is organisationally independent of the Church of Satan and The Satanic Temple.
Related Pages
- About The High Satanic Church
- Our Beliefs and Tenets
- Devotional Practices
- Join Our Community
- Frequently Asked Questions