Bunco Sheet
This was released by the Church of Satan. It tells newbies what to look out for, and how to spot pseudo-satanic groups or people.
1. When someone claims to have a direct line of communication to Satan, watch out. Selling that kind of mysticism is exactly how Christianity has kept people enslaved in ignorance for centuries. It's one of the things we're fighting against.
2. Look out for jargon and secrets to which only the "initiated" can be privy. Once you're processed through the lengthy and strictly-enforced "degree system", you'll discover there are really no answers, just more gobbledygook. If they have something worthwile to say, they'll say it. If they don't, they'll pretend they do anyway.
3. Check the copyright date. Much of esoterica you may receive from supposed Masters as "wisdom" or "revelation" comes directly from Anton LaVey [note: it's been claimed LaVey plagiarized virtually everything in The Satanic Bible anyway. All he did was codify the religion, not invent it (and he didn't claim to)--Eric], the Church of Satan or our affiliates. Don't accept the inducements you may recieve as emanating from some great brain, when they most likely were cribbed from material released by us weeks, months, or years ago. If mainstream writers crib material daily, it can be expected that occultnik hacks would be the first to do likewise. The difference between legit writers doing it and "Daimon Oleaginous" doing it is that the "Daimon" sprinkles his articles with sour-grapes attacks on the CoS while stealing from us. That's Christianity- tearing down the "other guys", who don't have the "true message". It boils down to more parasitism; without us these ersatz Satanists would shrivel up and blow away.
4. The most parasitic "Satanic" newsletters invariably contain a liberal dose of LaVey-baiting. Their editors' masochistic requirements are exercised as "lively exchange". Their mainstay is often the reprinting of any letter, pro or con, from anyone capable of grasping a writing implement or poking at a computer or typewriter key. When responding to such transparent tactics, it's our policy to preface rebuttals with two acknowledgements: A)"I know you're a masochist and delight in hostile banter," and B)"Anything I write or say to will keep you going for another six months." The Satanic Bible advises to "question all things" [note: an example of a referance to older philosophy: Spinoza said the same thing--Eric]-but it helps to be able to think first.
5. Most pseudo-Satanic groups are short-lived, running out of money, enthusiasm, or suckers before too long. An easier game comes along and they're off in a new direction.
6. How do they deal with Anton LaVey and the CoS? This is tricky- some current groups play the Christian game of handing out laurels with one hand while stabbing thier progenitor in the back with the other. Others aren't so subtle, boldly claiming to be the "true" or "evolved" CoS [note: The FCOS?-Eric]. To make their rationale work, they must somehow convince you that the author of The Satanic Bible isn't practicing pure Satanism and thier brand is the straight stuff. Still others just ignore Anton LaVey altogether and hope you won't notice.
7. Be wary of the approach of "You probably aren't smart enough to join us." The only way you can prove them wrong is by joining![note: I think that's a mistype. More to the point would be: 'The only way you can prove them right is by joining!'--Eric] From the first material you get, you feel you have to prove and defend yourself. Don't be fooled by big words, nice typing, and/or fancy paper...and plenty of it. True Satanism builds the ego, it doesn't tear it down.
8. Beware of cults offering sex orgies and drugs, or killing animals in the name of Satan. As you well know, these are not part of Satanic practices. The leaders are copying the lame-brain spook stories from Geraldo or Oprah and obviously know less than you do. Use common sense. Don't let someone take advantage of you for his or her own perversity; examine motives carefully.
9. Some other groups to watch out for: A)Feminist, Wiccan-oriented, conciuosness-raising groups who practice more male bashing than magic; B) New Age groups that promote LaVeyan concepts, but shun the dreaded "S" word; C) Jargon-laden Christians masquerading as Satanists; D) Pen-pal or lonely hearts social groups pretending to be elitists performing powerful Satanic Rituals.
These are designed to help new initiates and kids. It attempts to outline, along with the Laws, Sins, and Statements, what could be qualified as "Satanic" or not. Remember, whenever researching this topic, beware of all the "lame-brain spook stories". Perhaps the most important aspect of this BUNCO is in the last section (8): "Use common sense".