reply to post by Slothrop
Very interesting.
One of my very first theological conversations that helped for me to understand the virtues of asking questions, and understanding myself in a
productive way was with a girl who agreed with many ideologies of the church of satan.
I, myself am a Discordian. Satanists and Discordians do share many concepts, rather they are just different ways of looking at the universe. Really, I
can still see eye to eye with many concepts utilized by the larger church of satan, but rather I choose to take a non-christianity approach to it.
I believe Lucifer was but another being, who inspite of his flaws, did see another way to go about things. However, his anger and rage colored
everything that he did, and prevented further progress towards the enlightenment and productive use of physical beings. Eventually he chose
reincarnation as a means to prove that development and excellence are far more than mere concepts, but are actually real goals that can be achieved by
everyone.
Satan is just a title. Many beings take up the role of satan. Just as there have been many antichrists, there are many who fulfill that role as
well.
Baphomet is one example of a satan. It was not the only one. There was only one Lucifer, and he screwed up. Letting his anger and feelings of betrayal
to cloud his judgment, which only made it impossible for him to properly explain his ideas and get the job done.
Really, from my perspective this Lucifer that I refer to is no different than anyone else. Well, there is always the chance for certain behavioral
differences, but nothing what a Christian would consider of the soul that once represented one of the most powerful Hosts.
People change. Evolution and reincarnation are powerful changing forces that can take even the most callous of hearts and souls, remove their
memories, then beat the heck out of the person in their new lives and bodies until they get the right idea.
I feel that a vast energy 'godlike' satan being no longer exists, not from the original Lucifer. However, if you seek Satan, you will find it. After
all, it is all in how we look at things.
Hmph, how funny.
[edit on 4-8-2008 by GideonHM]