"In his ground-breaking book, With Lucifer On My Side , Henry Panic reveals the truth about life as a 21 st -century Luciferian... Never preachy and unconcerned with the missionary zeal - there is no intention of converting the reader - and told in direct, everyday language, this book will shine light on what is to the author an ancient truth." -Lynn Picknett Author of The Secret History of Lucifer Lucifer. That's why you're here. That was the word in the title - the one that caught your attention. "With" and "On ...
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"In his ground-breaking book, With Lucifer On My Side , Henry Panic reveals the truth about life as a 21 st -century Luciferian... Never preachy and unconcerned with the missionary zeal - there is no intention of converting the reader - and told in direct, everyday language, this book will shine light on what is to the author an ancient truth." -Lynn Picknett Author of The Secret History of Lucifer Lucifer. That's why you're here. That was the word in the title - the one that caught your attention. "With" and "On My Side" are important, too, but it was Lucifer that brought you here. Interesting character and one we will explore from a couple of different angles. As a practicing Luciferian, I will share with you the secret of how certain ancient thought-systems and philosophies have driven me throughout my life, including not just Luciferianism and Satanism, but also Hermeticism - the driving force behind many of history's greatest minds - besides Stoicism and Paganism. In exploring my own story, you, too, will be made aware of these great and transformational truths. I lay out the foundational beliefs for various philosophies before moving into how those ideas have played a role in my life. As the book progresses, we dive deep into my past - exploring some of the ugliest sides of humanity together. I want you to see me as both the hero and villain as the story progresses. Understanding where I upheld these occult ideals and then turned around and threw them away. Regardless of what Left Hand Path, pagan mythology, or occult philosophy you follow, you will find something to resonate with in these pages. And if you're just here out of curiosity... That's where it all starts. - Henry Panic
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With Lucifer On My Side is a philosophical, biographical work that examines the religious practice of Luciferianism through the context of Henry Panic's life. Luciferianism is a religion that is molded to fit each individual, and as such, Henry Panic outlines his personal version of Luciferian beliefs. Readers follow Panic through key moments that shaped his life, both good and bad, and are introduced to the ways in which Luciferianism guides his actions, decisions, and mindset.
This book is a raw look at a man who has gone through a lot in life, but through his beliefs has continued on, trying to be a light bringer.
I adore how raw and blunt Henry Panic's voice is in this book. Even though I don't personally know him, Panic's personality shines through. Despite being gritty and dark at times in his writing, Panic clearly expresses his beliefs and principles to the point where readers will recognize his good heart matched with his open mind.
The format of this book was really interesting as well. Split into chapters, this book is sometimes informational, plenty anecdotal, and is occasionally formatted as a dialogue between Panic and the Gods he believes in. By using these different formats, Panic successfully creates depth. Readers will understand the philosophy of Luciferianism, they will empathize with the author, and will witness how philosophy meets practice.
I found myself really enjoying this as a philosophical text in which Panic's religious beliefs can easily be adapted to suit an atheist perspective. In addition, there were rarely any dull moments. Panic has lived a very full and thrilling life (in both good and bad ways) and we get to see some of the more emotional parts of it. Relationships, deaths, changing career trajectories, radical beliefs, fatal accidents, coping mechanisms. Panic's life seems to have it all.
While this book could benefit from another copyedit, my only other critique would be with the organization of the story and chapters. I liked how Panic began by introducing the fundamentals of Luciferianism. This really helped my later understanding. However, Panic would sometimes make references to parts of his life that he wouldn't fully explain until later. Some people may like this slightly disorienting feeling of having a puzzle piece that doesn't quite fit anywhere yet, but it's not something I personally enjoy.
Overall I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in philosophical questions of morality, ethics, and life's purpose. This is not just for people who are "religious", and I strongly believe that anyone can benefit from considering other moral and ethical perspectives through this book.