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"

See also

• Right-hand path
• Right-hand path versus Left-hand path