Coming Out as a Satanist: A Guide for the Curious

Coming out as a Satanist can be a big step. Just like how some people feel comfortable talking about their favorite sports teams or bands, others might feel comfortable sharing their religious or spiritual beliefs. Satanism, however, often carries a lot of stigma and misunderstanding.¹ So, it’s totally okay to take your time and figure out what feels right for you.

For me, coming out in my small Virginian town went over about as well as wishing Happy Holiday to a born again Christian in the south. That is to say, not very well. Depending on what aspect of my life, we may be addressing, you will find degrees of me being open. But for others, it could be entirely different. Today, I want to share with y’all about coming out as a Satanist and if/when you should consider it. Let’s jump right in with Coming Out as a Satanist:A Guide for the Curious.

1. Why coming out can be challenging
2. Do you need to come out?
3. Where to keep your beliefs private
4. The importance of solitude
5. The infernal contract

Why coming out can be challenging

“Coming out” is a term that is often used with the LGBTQ+ community, however it often works in many other places, as well. As a Satanist, it is guaranteed that at some point you, too, may have to “Come out.”

Coming out as a Satanist can be challenging due to the pervasive negative stereotypes surrounding the religion. Decades of media portrayals have often depicted Satanists as evil, dangerous, and even involved in harmful activities. ¹ This creates a climate of fear and misunderstanding, leading many people to associate Satanism with negativity and to view Satanists with suspicion or even outright hostility. ¹ 

^{1.Satan is getting hot as hell– https://www.newsweek.com/satan-getting-hot-hell-american-pop-culture-1790669}

Furthermore, the association of Satanism with rebellion and defiance against traditional religious and societal norms can make it difficult for some individuals to openly embrace their beliefs. Fear of rejection, ostracization, and even discrimination from family, friends, and colleagues can be significant obstacles for those considering coming out.

• Misconceptions: Many people have scary ideas about Satanists, thanks to movies and TV shows. They might think you’re evil, worship the devil, or even sacrifice animals! This can make it hard to feel comfortable sharing your beliefs.
• Fear of Judgment: People might judge you, make fun of you, or even treat you differently if they know you’re a Satanist. This fear of rejection can be really scary.
• Family and Friends: Talking to your family and friends about your beliefs can be tricky. They might have strong religious beliefs or may not understand what Satanism really means.

defiance against traditional religious and societal norms can make it difficult for some individuals to openly embrace their beliefs. Fear of rejection, ostracization, and even discrimination from family, friends, and colleagues can be significant obstacles for those considering coming out.

Do you need to come out?

Coming out as a Satanist is a very personal decision. There’s no right or wrong answer, and it’s entirely up to the individual. Some people may feel a strong need to be open about their beliefs, while others may prefer to keep them private.

You don’t have to feel pressured to come out to anyone. If you’re comfortable keeping your beliefs to yourself, that’s perfectly okay. It’s your personal journey, and you have the right to decide who you share it with.

Consider these factors:

• Your personal comfort level: How comfortable do you feel discussing your beliefs with others?
• Your relationship with the person: How close is your relationship with the person you’re considering telling?
• The potential consequences: How might they react? Would it impact your relationship?
• Your own well-being: Will coming out make you feel more comfortable and authentic?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to come out is entirely yours. There’s no right or wrong answer, and you should prioritize your own well-being and comfort.

Where to keep your beliefs private

Keeping your Satanic beliefs private in certain situations is a matter of self-preservation and navigating social environments. In the workplace, for example, openly discussing religious or philosophical beliefs can sometimes create tension or even lead to discrimination. Sharing your beliefs in a professional setting could potentially impact your career prospects, create uncomfortable situations with colleagues, or even lead to unintended consequences if your employer or clients hold differing views. Similarly, in some family or social settings, discussing unconventional beliefs like Satanism might lead to unexpected and potentially negative reactions, such as judgment, disapproval, or even ostracization. Prioritizing your own well-being and maintaining healthy relationships often requires careful consideration of when and with whom you choose to share your personal beliefs.

• Work: If you’re not comfortable sharing your beliefs with your coworkers, that’s okay. You don’t have to discuss your religion at work.
• School: If you’re still in school, you might not want to share your beliefs with teachers or classmates.
• Family Gatherings: Family gatherings can be tricky. If you think your family might react negatively, it’s okay to keep your beliefs private for now.

The importance of solitude

Solitude, in the context of Satanism, isn’t about isolation or loneliness. It’s about creating space for introspection and personal growth. It’s about connecting with your inner self, exploring your own beliefs, and developing your own unique path within the Satanic framework.

Think of it like this: just like a gardener needs to spend time alone with their plants, tending to their individual needs, so too does a Satanist need time for introspection and personal growth. This solitude allows for:

• Deepening your understanding of Satanism: Exploring different interpretations, questioning your own beliefs, and developing a personal philosophy that resonates with you.
• Connecting with your inner self: Engaging in meditation, contemplation, or other practices that allow you to connect with your inner wisdom and intuition.
• Developing personal rituals: Creating your own unique rituals and practices that align with your beliefs and values.
• Recharging your energy: In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. Solitude provides an opportunity to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.   

Solitude is not about isolation or withdrawal from the world. It’s about creating space for inner exploration and personal growth, allowing you to connect with your inner self and develop a deeper understanding of your own beliefs and values.  

The importance of solitude:

• Personal growth and introspection: Connecting with your inner self, exploring your beliefs, and developing your own unique path.
• Developing personal rituals: Creating meaningful practices that align with your individual beliefs.
• Recharging and finding inner peace: Escaping the distractions of the world and reconnecting with yourself.

The infernal contract

Remember, coming out is a personal journey. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Take your time, listen to your gut, and prioritize your own well-being. Make sure you are in a place of safety, before you start the coming out process. Realize that you may lose friends over your choice, you are putting yourself out there for scrutiny and judgment, and you will be seen as an outcast, sinner, or worse, depending on who is judging you. I hope this helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. 

Have you ever had to come out to anyone about anything you had long kept secret? What was it like? Were they understanding or did they end your relationship? What are you thoughts on people coming out as Satanists? Let us know in the comments below. Thank you for being a part of GayintheCLE and for GayintheCLE allowing me to be a part of this community.