Peter H. Gilmore

Peter H. Gilmore is the current High Priest of the Church of Satan, a position he has held since 2001. He is known for his books on Satanic philosophy and practice, including The Satanic Scriptures (2007) and What, The Devil? (2017). As a writer and spokesperson, Gilmore has worked to clarify modern Satanism's atheistic and individualistic nature, building upon Anton LaVey's foundational works. His essays and interviews have appeared in numerous publications, and he frequently provides commentary on Satanism in mainstream media outlets. Gilmore's background in music and the arts has influenced his approach to Satanic aesthetics and ritual. He studied music at New York University and has composed several Satanic ritual pieces, demonstrating the intersection of artistic expression and religious practice in modern Satanism. Beyond his religious leadership, Gilmore has contributed to academic discussions on alternative religions and new religious movements. His work focuses on promoting rational self-interest and rejecting supernatural beliefs while embracing symbolic imagery and ceremonial practices.

Most reviews focus on Gilmore's main work "The Satanic Scriptures" and related essays. Readers appreciate: - Clear explanations of modern Satanic philosophy - Straightforward writing style free of supernatural claims - Intellectual depth in analyzing social issues - Fresh perspectives on LaVey's original concepts One reader noted: "Gilmore presents complex ideas without pretension or mysticism" Common criticisms: - Writing can be dry and academic - Some essays feel repetitive - Too much focus on defending/explaining Satanism versus developing new ideas - Lacks the charismatic flair of LaVey's works A reviewer wrote: "Important information but not exactly engaging reading" Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (150+ ratings) Library Thing: 3.8/5 (50+ ratings) The reviews suggest readers value Gilmore's content and scholarship but find the presentation sometimes academic and dense compared to LaVey's more dramatic style.

The Satanic Scriptures (2007) A collection of essays and commentaries exploring modern Satanic philosophy, ritual practices, and the Church of Satan's development since Anton LaVey's death, written from Gilmore's perspective as High Priest.

What, The Devil? (2017) A compilation of selected interviews, articles, and essays addressing common misconceptions about Satanism and explaining the Church of Satan's positions on various social and philosophical issues.

Anton LaVey As the founder of the Church of Satan and author of The Satanic Bible, LaVey established the philosophical foundation that Gilmore builds upon. His writings combine theatricality with individualistic philosophy and criticism of religious conformity.

Christopher Hitchens His direct critiques of religion and emphasis on rational thinking align with Gilmore's atheistic approach to Satanism. Hitchens' works focus on individualism and questioning established religious structures.

Friedrich Nietzsche His philosophical writings on self-determination and criticism of traditional morality parallel themes in Gilmore's work. Nietzsche's concepts of the will to power and rejection of conventional religious thinking influenced modern Satanic philosophy.

Michael Aquino As founder of the Temple of Set and former Church of Satan member, Aquino's writings provide perspective on the development of modern Satanic thought. His works explore occult philosophy and the evolution of dark spirituality in the modern era.

Aleister Crowley His writings on ceremonial practices and individualistic philosophy share common ground with Gilmore's approach to ritual and self-determination. Crowley's work combines theatrical elements with philosophical exploration of the self.