Lesser Magic in Satanism

1. Introduction to Ritual and Magic in Satanism
2. Lesser Magic
   1. The 2nd Satanic Sin - Empty Posturing
   2. Curses and Hexes

1. Introduction to Ritual and Magic in Satanism

“Magic and ritual in Satanism is mostly self-centered, and most of the time is only explicitly concerned with psychological techniques, psychodrama and advanced social skills. Rare communal rituals are more traditional, concerning altered states of mind as a result of the environmental and inspirational aspects of the ritual. Some Satanists do believe, and practice, actual supernatural magic. Such magic is a matter of cause-and-effect and individual willpower, rather than involving any invented external aspects such as demons or spirits. In Satanism, the self is the sole source of power in all magic and ritual.”

"Satanic Ritual and Satanic Magic" by Vexen Crabtree (2002)

2. Lesser Magic

“Non-ritual or manipulative magic, sometimes called "LESSER MAGIC", consists of the wile and guile obtained through various devices and contrived situations, which when utilized, can create 'change, in accordance with one's will'.”

"The Satanic Bible"
Anton LaVey (1969)
Book of Belial: 1

Subtle body language & subconscious communication (i.e., reading 'in between the lines' when a person speaks) are forms of Lesser Magic. Day to day behaviour or specific roles you slip into are forms of lesser magic... the art of controlling people in the most subtle ways. In that much, it isn't a form of supernatural magic, but everyday psychology, even if some develop an uncommon capability in it.

2.1. The 2nd Satanic Sin - Empty Posturing

The 2nd Satanic Sin is "2. Pretentiousness. - - Empty posturing can be most irritating and isn't applying the cardinal rules of Lesser Magic". An example of failure to use lesser magic is empty posturing, where you make yourself out to be something you are not, or cannot provide or do what you claim you can do. This irritating trait seems to be a sign of insecurity, and in most cases in very transparent and will have a negative effect on people's opinion of you. This trait in particular, a Psychic Vampire warning sign, will ensure you never fascinate anyone!

2.2. Curses and Hexes

Curses and hexes are forms of Lesser Magic. They are the only profound part of Lesser Magic. Recently a neophyte asked me how to rid herself of a curse, and I told her the best way was not to believe in it. Because when you believe you are 'cursed' you are instantly assuming the worst and actively looking for things to blame on the curse! It's all wrong... and in that mindset you are not at your best. Just thinking you are cursed (and believing it) is a curse in itself. If you concentrate on the bad things that happen during a day, that day will seem worse than others. Curses work on human psychology - so the best way is to ignore them. I am immune to curses. Shad, a member of the London Satanists list, said in 2002 that "the easiest way to 'break' a curse as you put it, is just to not give it any power. By worrying constantly about it and blaming everything that goes wrong in your life on this little thing will only give it more power.".

To curse someone who believes in curses all that is required is to present a curse to them, especially if you do it in the way that they fear most, whatever that is! And voila it might actually work, but not through any supernatural means, just working on them with plain paranoia!

Despite the psychology it was LaVey's belief that you can effect a more supernatural curse, although he anticipated that some would not share this belief.