Left-hand path

The left-hand path is a term to connote religions or philosophies that operate oppositely to right-hand path religions. While not all left-hand paths share the same beliefs or metaphors, most of them operate in similar ways in favor of the individual rather than the focus on a group collective.

Historically, the term "left hand path" has roots in Tantra (practices called "Vama Marga"), which is emphasized on the Yin principle and women.

Traits of many left-hand path religions and philosophies include:


 * Focus on the Self:
 * Analysis
 * Improvement
 * Development
 * Empowerment.


 * A looser viewpoint on ethics
 * An emphasis on independent, objective thought
 * Rejection of "absolutes"
 * Rules as only guidelines
 * Rejection of hypocrisy


 * A psychological approach to beliefs
 * Beliefs are personal, not universal
 * Beliefs are regarded as psychological triggers for valuable use in magick and ritual, regardless of metaphysical existence. (see also Random Belief in chaos theory)
 * Religion is a practice that the individual takes the most pleasure in. (See: "The World's Most Powerful Religion" by Anton Lavey, published in the Cloven Hoof magazine)

Source: Vexen Crabtree's "Left Hand Path"