Setianism

Setianism is the religious and philosophical tradition associated with the Temple of Set. It gives a central role to the name Set and to Xeper, understood in the Temple's public explanation as coming into being. The emphasis is on the development of individual consciousness.^[1]

Xeper and self-development#

The Temple's introductory statement describes a path in which the individual takes responsibility for their own becoming. Study, experience, and deliberate change are presented as parts of this process. Initiation concerns what happens in a person's life and understanding, as well as recognition within an organization.^[1]

The modern use of Set draws on Egyptian symbolism but is not a direct continuation of an ancient temple cult. Ancient Egyptian religion supplies names and images that modern Setians interpret within their own philosophy. A description of Setianism therefore needs both the modern institution's texts and a separate account of the historical deity.

Satanic origins and a distinct identity#

The Temple of Set emerged from the Satanic milieu, and scholarship has discussed its development in terms of the Left-hand path and post-Satanism. That history connects it with the study of Modern theistic Satanism, without requiring Setians to identify their present religion as Satanism.^[2]

The Church of Satan offers an atheistic interpretation of Satan, whereas the High Satanic Church affirms Satan as an acausal deity. Setian teaching uses a different center of religious meaning. Comparing these traditions is most useful when it follows their own definitions of deity, selfhood, and initiation.

See also#

• Temple of Set
• Set
• Initiation

This encyclopedia covers traditions beyond the High Satanic Church. Church doctrine is identified as such when it appears.