Why use a label that alienates?

This was probably the most common question that I experienced working the Syndicate booth at the Panpipes Pagan Day Fest.  The most significant reasons are as follows:

• The label acts as a filter.  It serves to filter out those who are afraid of labels, or those who are afraid to look behind the curtain for what really lies behind the symbols.  Satanists naturally have an open-minded curiosity and posses the intelligence to be unaffected by labels and their misconceptions.

• We realize that if we were to switch to a more "safe" or "tame" label, the floodgates would open for those who would only step in when the waters are "safe".  These are not the individuals we want to attract.  In doing so, Satanism would likely end up another trendy passive New Age path, or another casual book on the metaphysical shelf.

• Satanism is not a religion that focuses on increasing its member base.  The Syndicate does, however, seek to attract those who already posses Satanic qualities.  Since we're not out to convert, we have no concern for the propaganda quality (or the lack thereof) of the label we choose.

• Very few labels provoke as much reaction and as much thought as "Satan".   It is, no doubt, quite a vibrant, energy-charged word.  It is seldom seen as a neutral or blasé term, so it  is a fitting term for a religion such as this.  Satanism is not a passive religion.  Rather, it is a religion based on the individual assuming the role of the god/goddess and taking responsibility for the change in his/her own life.

• The original meanings (pre-Bible) of "Satan" are accurate descriptions of what we feel Satanism is about.  In Latin, its origination was "Bearer of Light", or "Bringer of Light".  In Hebrew, "Adversary" or "Opponent to the Status Quo" which can be interpreted as "Opponent to the Herd".  Individualism and creativity can only come about through possesing these characteristics.

• Although Satanists recognize no divine importance in the Christian Bible, it is interesting to note that Jesus referred to Satan as the "Prince of the World," and St. Paul referred to him as "God of This World."  As self-worshippers in this world, these are fitting descriptions.

• The label is fun, and the symbols and imageries are prideful and bold--befitting of a religion such as this.