A note on Lesser and Greater Magic
In contemporary Satanism, "magic" is not supernatural but psychological theater. It is a way of channeling will, emotion, and intent. Anton LaVey defined it simply as “The change in situations or events in accordance with one’s will, which would, using normally accepted methods, be unchangeable.” Within his system, ritual magic is called “Greater Magic,” and manipulative, everyday applications are called “Lesser Magic.” In contrast, Aleister Crowley spelled his occult practice as "magick" to distinguish it from stage illusions, emphasizing spiritual transformation and communion with higher forces. LaVey dismissed this metaphysical framing, instead grounding Satanic magic in carnal, emotional, and psychological experience. For Satanists, ritual and manipulation work not because of unseen spirits but because of the power of symbolism, psychology, and the ability to influence perception.
What is Greater Magic?
Greater Magic is defined in the Satanic Bible as Ritual magic. It consists of formalized rites and highly symbolic ceremonies designed to channel and release deep emotions. Within the Church of Satan (CoS), these are usually private, controlled rituals performed for catharsis or focused intent. The Satanic Temple (TST), however, often uses ritual as a public act, performed for political or cultural impact as much as for individual expression. Their ceremonies function as activist theater, intended to provoke thought and challenge religious privilege. While CoS emphasizes ritual as an internalized psychodrama, TST highlights its external, performative dimension, yet both rely on the power of ritual to influence minds, whether inwardly or outwardly.
What is Lesser Magic?
Lesser Magic, as defined in The Satanic Bible, is non-ritual or manipulative magic, which 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.’ For CoS, this is exalted as a practical skill. It is the art of seduction, persuasion, and applied psychology in everyday life. It draws upon appearance, demeanor, and insight into human behavior to bend circumstances to one’s advantage. In TST, while less emphasized, a form of Lesser Magic emerges in their campaigns as the provocative ads, memes, and media stunts that use imagery and satire to shift public discourse. Thus, while CoS cultivates Lesser Magic as personal craft and TST wields it as political provocation, both could be argued to express LaVey’s principle that magic is a carnal tool of influence rooted in human psychology.
P.S., I recognize that some members of TST would not utilize these terms in the attempt to distinguish themselves from CoS. However, it is quite hard to avoid the historical linage of Satanic Magic, particularly if it is replicated under a different context.
Well, that's all for now. Just a little brief description on both and how the main organizations utilize them.
Hail Satan.
