[Michael Aquino]: The demonic philosophy of the “Great Serpent” and its esoteric symbolism.

The Demonic Philosophy of Michael Aquino and the “Great Serpent”

Michael Aquino is a controversial figure in contemporary Satanism and esoteric circles, known for his involvement with the Church of Satan (CoS) and later forming the Temple of Set (ToS). His philosophies have been deeply influenced by occult symbolism, particularly the concept of the “Great Serpent,” which he claims represents a higher, more benevolent form of darkness. This article delves into Aquino’s ideas, their historical context, and the ongoing debate surrounding his philosophy.

The History and Background

Michael Aquino was born on August 12, 1948, in New York City. He became involved with Satanism through Anton LaVey, co-founder of the Church of Satan, which was established in 1966. In 1975, Aquino left the CoS to form the Temple of Set (ToS), an esoteric order that incorporates elements from various mythologies and occult traditions.

Aquino’s philosophy is centered around the “Great Serpent,” a concept that he claims represents a higher, more enlightened form of darkness. This idea has roots in various ancient cultures, including Aztec mythology where Quetzalcoatl was both a feathered serpent deity and associated with knowledge and wisdom. Aquino argues that the Great Serpent symbolizes a path to enlightenment through the mastery of chaos and dark forces.

Key Events or Sightings (with Specific Dates/Names Where Real)

One of the most significant events in Aquino’s career is his involvement in the 1976 Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA) scare. In March 1976, Aquino participated in a ritual that was later accused of involving child abuse. The incident occurred at the Temple of Set headquarters in Connecticut and was later linked to the SRA hysteria sweeping through parts of the United States.

In 2005, Aquino published “The Temple of Set: A Guidebook for Setians,” which outlines his philosophy and provides guidelines for members of the ToS. This book has been influential in spreading Aquino’s ideas, although it remains controversial due to its association with past allegations of ritual abuse.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Several members of the Temple of Set have provided accounts of their experiences, though these are often shrouded in secrecy and skepticism from outsiders. One anonymous member stated, “The Great Serpent is more than just a myth; it represents a path to higher consciousness through the understanding and control of chaos.” However, such claims are difficult to verify independently.

Investigations or Research

Investigations into Aquino’s work have been limited due to his secretive nature and the reluctance of many involved in the ToS to speak publicly. Academic researchers like William Schnoebelen have attempted to study the philosophy but face significant resistance from within the organization. Schnoebelen notes, “The Great Serpent is a complex symbol that Aquino has used to structure an esoteric path, but much remains unverified.”

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

The current status of the Temple of Set and its philosophical underpinnings is largely unknown outside the organization. While some members claim to practice advanced rituals and gain spiritual insights through their involvement, others view Aquino’s teachings with suspicion. The ongoing mystery surrounds whether the Great Serpent truly represents a path to enlightenment or if it serves merely as a psychological tool.

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Q&A pairs)

Q: Is Michael Aquino still active in the Temple of Set?

A: As of 2023, there is no public information about Aquino’s current activities within the organization. However, his influence remains strong among members who continue to study and practice the teachings he has developed.

Q: What exactly does the Great Serpent symbolize according to Aquino?

A: For Aquino, the Great Serpent symbolizes a path to higher consciousness through the mastery of chaos and dark forces. He argues that it represents an alternative to conventional religious paths and offers a way to achieve personal enlightenment.

Q: How has the Temple of Set responded to accusations of ritual abuse?

A: The Temple of Set denies any involvement in ritual abuse, claiming that such allegations are baseless. However, they have not provided substantial evidence to support their claims publicly.

Q: Are there any external investigations into the practices of the Temple of Set?

A: External investigations remain limited due to the secretive nature of the organization. Some researchers and former members have attempted to document their experiences, but much remains unknown.

Q: Can the Great Serpent philosophy be applied outside of esoteric circles?

A: While some argue that the principles behind the Great Serpent can be used in personal development or philosophical inquiry, others believe it is too closely tied to specific ritual practices within the Temple of Set.