What is Luciferianism?

Answer

One form of Luciferianism involves the worship or veneration of Lucifer as a deity. This belief system is connected to Satanism, although it aims to highlight the more positive aspects of Lucifer. Another form of Luciferianism is nontheistic and sees Lucifer simply as a symbol of humanity’s pursuit of wisdom and enlightenment.

The name “Lucifer” originates from a translation of Isaiah 14:12, meaning “bright star, shining star, or morning star.” Most scholars interpret this as a reference to Satan before his rebellion against God. Passages like Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 indicate that Satan was initially the highest and most beautiful of angels, but his pride and desire for God’s throne led to his expulsion from heaven and the name “Satan” (meaning “adversary”).

The first form of Luciferianism essentially amounts to the worship of Satan as the god of this world, as stated in 2 Corinthians 4:4: “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” Satan is revered as a being of knowledge and light (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). The emphasis is on the “good” that Lucifer embodied before his rebellion, rather than the evil and darkness associated with the name “Satan.” While Lucifer and Satan are considered synonymous, Luciferianism portrays him as a deity of light, knowledge, and magic. Luciferians aspire to achieve godhood by leading a virtuous life, pursuing knowledge, practicing magic, and expanding their minds to the cosmic consciousness of Lucifer. In many respects, Luciferianism shares similarities with Gnosticism.

The other form of Luciferianism, which is nontheistic, regards Lucifer as simply a symbol of humanity’s quest for wisdom and enlightenment.H rejects the idea that Lucifer is a personal being and is still seeking enlightenment apart from the truth of God. These Luciferians may see themselves as lovers of light and goodness, but they are embracing falsehood. Satan does not care if people believe in him or not; he can still lead them astray.

Groups that adhere to Luciferian teachings are few and far between, although elements of Luciferianism are found in Masonic teachings, Wicca, and New Age philosophy. Due to the lack of agreed-upon dogma, Luciferian beliefs vary greatly from group to group. The wide range of beliefs among Luciferian adherents has led to the commonly held view that Luciferianism is merely a subset of Satanism, a mini-denomination of sorts. While some adherents may quickly reject such a claim, categorizing Luciferianism is otherwise challenging.

One thing is certain: Lucifer/Satan is not a being to be worshipped, nor is he someone to be taken lightly. He is a very powerful being and the enemy of our souls. The Bible describes him as “the devil [who] prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” «Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: », (1 Peter 5:8). Those who become involved with him will eventually regret it, as he will devour their souls as a reward for their worship. “Resist him,” Peter exhorts in verse 9, “standing firm in the faith.” The faith he refers to is faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, as He alone can save us from hell, the ultimate destination of all who dabble in Luciferianism.