In this episode, Stephen Long shares his journey from Satanism to a broader understanding of spirituality, exploring the history of Satanism, its cultural perceptions, and personal practices that foster transcendence and community. Discover how religious identities evolve and the importance of pluralism in modern spiritual life.

Links:

• Stephen Bradford Long's Website: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/
• Stephen's Sacred Tension Substack: https://sacredtension.substack.com/
• Sacred Tension Podcast: https://sacredtension.substack.com/podcast
• Sacred Tension Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3KR4hS0sBuYSrkzWgO5Cq8

Topic Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Stephen Long's Journey and Background

02:01 The Crumbling of Christian Faith and Search for Non-Theistic Religion

03:52 The Appeal of Satanism and Its Cultural Expressions

07:14 Literary and Cultural Influences on Satanic Identity

10:07 The Different Traditions of Satanism and Their Inspirations

14:54 The Evolution of Satanic Symbols and Rituals

20:01 The Relationship Between Satanism and Social Justice

24:59 The Impact of the Satanic Panic and Cultural Myths

29:55 Personal Transition Away from Satanism and Search for Transcendence

39:52 The Power of Rituals in Healing Religious Trauma

50:01 The Role of Pluralism and Religious Freedom Today

59:59 Practices and Beliefs in Modern Spirituality and Personal Rituals

01:09:49 The Practice of the Headless Way and Non-Duality