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The first thing stated before performing a ritual as per The Satanic Bible is thorough understanding. Go back and reread again, taking the time to do whatever it takes to understand, whether underlining, highlighting, copying down, whatever. If then, you still do not comprehend, come back.

No, no Pirate. In essence, you're correct. But, I think he has projected this ritualistic practice as something requiring steps and certain requisites; when, in fact, it isn't like that. Rituals are, like you said, engaged in order to relieve any form of trouble or dismay that you might have which may be interfering with your daily activities, or because of shear desire.

Rituals, by no means necessary, require you to follow any sort of procedure or set of guidelines. Though, TSB does state certain aspects of the ritual that should be recognized from a satanic perspective. Now, if this is what you're having troubles with, then that's a different story. You'd need to check out TSB in order to see the satanically inspired provisions that have been established. If you do not own a copy of TSB, it might be necessary to post an excerpt taken directly from TSB in order for you to see.

Indeed, it all depends on how you want to devise or construct your aesthetic sanction in order for it to properly fit your personal liking. Let your instincts and desires be your guide.

This isn't Wicca, after all... blaugh

I've found the best way of getting into a trance is by not trying to get into a trance. Simply put, staring at a candle's flame in a dark room can usually do it for me. Breathing exercises help as well as just concentrating on one thing or nothing at all. It would help if you use something such as music or etc. to enter your trance. Some people need silence, I use music - ranging from heavy metal to acoustic guitar.