Heresy | her· e· sy | ˈher-ə-sē
belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious (especially Christian) doctrine.
Heresy sounds like a scary word—especially if you're like me, having grown up in a conservative, religious, monotheistic household. Words like blasphemy, sin, heresy, and witchcraft were major no-nos. And here we are at our first heresy of this article...asking the question why? WHY are blasphemy, sin, heresy, and witchcraft such taboo topics? Where did their evil rep come from?
The Satanic Panic
The Satanic Panic, a cultural phenomenon that gripped the United States during the 1980s and early 1990s, serves as a profound reminder of how fear and misunderstanding can spiral into widespread hysteria. Originating from a blend of societal anxieties, media influence, government-driven mind control operatives, and religious fervor, this panic was fueled by allegations of widespread satanic ritual abuse, many of which were later discredited or proven false. The roots of this phenomenon can be traced back to the deep-seated fear of evil ingrained in monotheistic traditions.
Monotheism, with its belief in a singular omnipotent deity, often emphasizes a dualistic view of the world: good versus evil. This dichotomy is deeply embedded in the narratives of major monotheistic religions, where evil is frequently personified by figures like Satan. This conceptualization of evil has historically been used to explain suffering and misfortune, creating a framework that can sometimes lead to scapegoating and moral panic.
During the Satanic Panic, this binary perception of good and evil was manipulated and amplified by sensationalist media reports and pseudo-scientific claims. The fear that satanic cults were operating under the radar, corrupting the innocence of children and undermining societal values, resonated deeply with those who viewed the world through this lens. As stories of ritual abuse captured headlines, they tapped into a primal fear of malevolent forces lurking within society.
However, it is essential to recognize that this fear-driven response was not rooted in reality but rather in misunderstandings and exaggerations. The concept of "evil" as an external force can often obscure more nuanced perspectives on human behavior and societal issues. By attributing negative actions solely to an abstract embodiment of evil, we risk oversimplifying complex problems that require thoughtful analysis and compassionate solutions.
The Fear of Heretics
Throughout history, monotheistic religions have been powerful forces shaping societies and cultures. From their inception, these religions have wielded significant influence over followers. One of the most potent tools they have used to maintain this influence is the deliberate use of fear tactics, particularly through branding individuals as "heretics."
The concept of heresy is rooted in the idea that deviation from established doctrine is not only wrong but dangerous. This label has been used to instill fear among believers, discouraging dissent and encouraging conformity. In many cases, being branded a heretic has led to severe punishments or ostracism. This fear of social or even physical repercussions keeps many adherents in line, perpetuating the control that religious authorities hold over individuals.
However, it's essential to recognize that questioning and critical thinking are not inherently negative. They are vital components of personal growth and societal progress. Labeling dissenters as heretics stifles innovation and understanding, keeping communities stuck in dogma rather than evolving.
So, with that being said, I present to you my latest book, The Book of Heresy. One that opposes monotheistic religion—which is not evil to oppose. At all.
The book highlights the realms of the spiritual, emotional, and physical, and features prose from the perspective of the rulers of each plane of existence.
Excerpt From the Book
This poetry book brings to life heretical thoughts that defy monotheistic doctrine in alignment with ancient esoteric wisdom.
For millennia, the warnings of heretics and their heresies have echoed in the halls of church buildings and dogmatic writings. Beware the heretic! Birthed out of philosophy, heretics ask, “Where is the wisdom?” and, “Where is the love?”
The silence is an answer.
The rage-filled accusation of evildoing is an answer.
The curiosity with no follow-through is an answer.
But so is listening to truly hear the questions at hand and respond with, “Wait. Where is the wisdom? Where is the love? And if it’s not here, then why am I?”
People can cling to whatever they choose—but without wisdom, what’s the point of divine connection? And without love, what’s the point of life? Such thought is deemed heretical to those who have built their empires on heartless campaigns to suppress Lady Wisdom and all her glory.
Join me on a journey of heresy—and other things that aren’t actually evil.