...a crutch? In what way is Satanism my crutch?

I believe in the power of love. I just also happen to believe in the power of hatred.

I also believe in a universal power beyond our explanation. I don’t call it “god” or worship it, but I acknowledge that it’s there.

Sure, I look out for me and my own first. But I also do charity work. Satanism is also about fulfilling Satan’s work upon humanity by advancing us as a whole to the godhead. You are your first responsibility, with the exception of loved ones, perhaps. But help out your brother and you help out yourself.

EDIT: Since you edited your post, it is clearer what you mean. I would propose that if you are obligated to follow it, it isn’t a moral code. If you’re obligated, it’s law or duty, not morality. Under whose authority does a Christian abide by the codes of the Bible? If you believe in God, I suppose you could say him. But even Christians believe in the power of free will. A Christian is free to come and go from the faith as he pleases.

And couldn’t “doing as you please” be a moral code, anyway?

Satanism is not a religion. It is a philosophy. Anton Lavey was reluctant to create a list of ten commandments for Satanism because a) it is too resembling of Xianity, and b) it implies just what you said: that we, Satanists or non, are obligated to follow them. Perhaps that is where your misconception lies.

I’d also like to point out:

Celerysteve Posted:

...you also believe in the Judeo-Christian God who created him (or else they’re be no Satan)

Would there be a God if there was no Satan?