The Satanic Bible was first published by Anton LaVey in 1969. It is a collection of essays, observations, and rituals that outlines LaVey's Satanic ideology. The book contains the core principles of the Church of Satan and is considered the foundation of the philosophy and dogma that constitute LaVeyan Satanism.

Far from a manual for conquering the realms of earth, air, fire, and water, The Satanic Bible is LaVey's manifesto of a new religion, separate from the traditional Judeo-Christian definitions of Satanism. While LaVey rails against the deceit of the Christian church and white magicians, he weaves his own philosophy centered around self-indulgence.

The book claims the heritage of various ancient deities categorized by Christianity as "evil," and attempts to shatter the classical depiction of Satanism as a cult of black mass and child sacrifice. Instead, it presents a surprisingly logical argument in favor of a life focused on self-indulgence.

Ultimately, The Satanic Bible is less of a "bible" and more of a philosophy, with rituals included for entertainment, forming the backbone of a religion that LaVey brought into the public eye as a legitimate belief system.