What does satanism mean?
Satanism is the name given to beliefs, practices, and religious traditions associated with Satan, or the Devil. It is sometimes described loosely as “devil worship,” although that expression can obscure the considerable variety of modern Satanic traditions. Some forms of Satanism are theistic, treating Satan as a deity, while others are atheistic or symbolic and use Satanic imagery as part of a broader philosophy or artistic identity. The word also appears in discussions of popular culture, alleged occult practices, and the “Satanic panic” of the late twentieth century. Because Satanism encompasses distinct and sometimes conflicting traditions, careful writers usually specify which form or historical context they mean. The term remains controversial and is frequently associated in public discussion with religious prejudice, sensationalism, and accusations of ritual abuse.
nounSatanism is a broad term for religious beliefs and practices centered on Satan or the Devil. In modern usage, it most often refers to a diverse range of religious traditions, including LaVeyan Satanism and theistic Satanism, rather than to one single organized religion.
- A religious movement or set of beliefs centered on Satan or the Devil.
- Beliefs, practices, or cultural imagery regarded as associated with Satan.
"The scholar examined the history of Satanism and its portrayal in popular culture."
"The book traces the development of Satanism in nineteenth-century Europe and North America."
"The alleged ritual led to a moral panic that was later linked to Satanic abuse claims."
Satanism is not one unified religion: modern Satanic traditions can range from symbolic philosophical systems to forms of theistic worship.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does satanism come from?
The word is formed from Satan plus the suffix -ism, a pattern used to form names of doctrines or belief systems. Satan entered English through Greek and Latin forms ultimately derived from a Hebrew term used in the Hebrew Bible to refer to an adversary or opponent. The compound Satanism developed in the modern period as a label for beliefs and practices connected with Satan, becoming especially prominent in nineteenth- and twentieth-century religious and cultural debates.
Related word forms
How satanism is actually used
The term can be used as a general historical or cultural label, but it should not be treated as the name of a single unified religion. “Satanic panic” is an established historical term for the widespread social hysteria involving allegations of Satanic ritual abuse, especially in the late twentieth century.
Easily confused with satanism
Satan is the figure associated with evil or opposition to God, while Satanism denotes beliefs, traditions, or practices associated with Satan.