SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — In Downtown Santiago, Chile, a group of 15 individuals from the Temple of Satan gather for a ritual, challenging traditional religious norms. The organization, seeking legal recognition as a religious association, has gained momentum in a country where Catholicism has long held sway.
Chile, with half of its 18 million population identifying as Catholic, is experiencing a crisis of faith due to revelations of sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic church. This has created an environment where alternative beliefs are finding a voice.
The Temple of Satan in Chile, despite its name, does not engage in devil worship or sacrifices. Its 100 members, including professionals from various fields, embrace rationality, individualism, and pleasure, rather than traditional religious doctrines.
Members of the Temple of Satan view Satan as a symbolic figure and focus on rituals that evoke emotions and challenge conventional thinking. They are against animal abuse, criminal affiliations, and violence in the name of Satan.
Applicants to the Temple of Satan undergo a rigorous screening process, including background checks and psychological evaluations. Once accepted, members can adopt new names associated with demons or fallen angels.
Founded in 2021, the Temple of Satan has seen a surge in interest, with over 400 applications following its request for legal recognition as a religious association. This move has sparked debate among Chile's religious denominations.
Modern Satanists, inspired by the Church of Satan founded in 1966, prioritize skepticism and logic over supernatural beliefs. They are free to develop their own spiritual practices, with some identifying as atheists, witches, or believers in magic.
Individuals like Azazel, who founded the Temple of Satan in Chile, have turned to the organization disillusioned with traditional religions. The group attracts a diverse range of individuals seeking a less dogmatic approach to spirituality.
While the Chilean government's stance on recognizing the Temple of Satan remains uncertain, the organization's presence has initiated a dialogue challenging societal norms and traditions. By demanding recognition, the Temple of Satan embodies the spirit of rebellion and non-conformity.
As the Temple of Satan continues to navigate its quest for legitimacy, it represents a growing trend of individuals exploring alternative belief systems in a society undergoing a shift in religious dynamics.
