DEMONS, EVIL SPIRITS, SATAN, DEVIL
DEMONOLOGY
Demonology is the study of demons and their associated beliefs. It’s a field of theology and religious research that examines the classification, attributes, and actions of demons, often within different religious beliefs and myths. Demonology is linked to disciplines such as theology, anthropology, psychology, and history. The study of this phenomenon is present in various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and indigenous and folk religions.
CHRISTIAN DEMONOLOGY
The Bible discusses demons and the roles they play.
The ancient world, including the Jews, believed in the influence of demons that are malevolent beings, exist in the transcendent domain. They are fallen angels with a mission to promote sin, induce temptations, and keep people away from God. Another belief was that they were the souls of the wicked people who have died continuing their malicious deeds entering others’ bodies. The demon possessed person spoke as demons. The person convinced of such a possession identified with the evil spirit and behaved like that demon. Such a person possessed by the “unclean spirit” was “unclean” and ritually impure.
The demons caused physical and mental disorders in the possessed person. Demons manipulate humans by testing their faith in God, often through possession or provoking visions that lead to sin. Unlike God, demons lack direct power over us, yet they manipulate us through torment, temptation, and the induction of sin.
The theological understanding of demonology draws upon references found in both the Old and New Testaments. The belief in spirit beings and related phenomena, like inspiration, possession, and exorcism, was widespread.
Demons come in various levels, and they serve Satan’s goal to oppose God. As believers, we need to put on the Armor of God to stand against them (Eph 6:10-12). While the Bible uses terms like “flesh,” “devil,” “world,” and “enemy” to refer to demons, it also provides specific names for some demons.
Remember that as Christians, our focus should be on God’s protection and spiritual warfare rather than dwelling excessively on demonic forces.
DEMONS AND SIMILAR BEINGS
The terms “demons,” “evil spirits,” “Satan,” “devil,” and similar beings often appear in religious and mythological contexts, and they are frequently used interchangeably. However, they can refer to distinct entities depending on the tradition or context. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each term and how they differ:
1. Demons are generally understood as malevolent supernatural beings. In Jewish tradition, demons can be harmful spirits that may cause illness or misfortune, and their origins are sometimes linked to figures like Lilith or the fallen angels described in the Book of Enoch. In Christian theology, demons are often considered fallen angels who rebelled against God along with Satan. They are believed to possess individuals, leading them to sin or causing physical or mental harm (Mk 1:34; Lk 4:41). They are seen as powerful, malevolent spirits who tempt humans towards sin and inflict misfortune. Some traditions portray them as having specific areas of influence, like greed or violence. Demons can be depicted in terrifying forms, but they can also appear beautiful or seductive to deceive their targets.
2. Evil Spirits is a broad term that encompasses any malevolent supernatural entity, including but not limited to demons. They are generally associated with causing harm or influencing people negatively. In many indigenous and traditional religions, evil spirits can be ancestral spirits or other supernatural beings that have become vengeful or malevolent. In Christianity evil spirits are often synonymous with demons and are seen as spirits that seek to lead people away from God and cause various forms of harm (Lk 8:2; Acts 19:12-13).
3. Satan is a singular entity, often identified as the leader of demons and the ultimate source of evil. Satan in Jewish thought is often seen as an accuser or adversary who challenges human righteousness (Job 1-2; Zec 3:1-2). In Christianity, he is often equated with Lucifer, the “light bringer,” a powerful angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven. Satan is seen as the ultimate deceiver and tempter, who strives to lead humanity away from God. Satan is seen as the chief of the fallen angels and the primary opponent of God. He is often depicted as the tempter who seeks to lead humanity into sin and rebellion against God (Job 1:6-12; Mt 4:1-11).
4. Devil is another term commonly used to refer to Satan, but it can also refer to other demonic figures. The devil is often used interchangeably with Satan, referring to the same being who tempts humans and opposes God (Rev 12:9; 1 Pet 5:8). The term can encompass Satan, as well as other demonic or evil beings, like lesser demons or mischievous imps.
5. Other Similar terms like “Lucifer” or “Beelzebub” also appear in religious texts and folklore. Lucifer is often associated with Satan. Lucifer (“light-bringer”) refers to the fallen angel who became Satan after rebelling against God (Isa 14:12-15; Lk 10:18). Beelzebub is another name for Satan or a high-ranking demon (Mt 12:24; Mk 3:22).
EXORCISM BY JESUS AND HIS DISCIPLES
The Bible records several instances where Jesus and his disciples expelled demons, a process commonly referred to as exorcism. These accounts highlight Jesus’ authority over evil spirits and the continuation of this power through his disciples. Here are some key examples:
Exorcisms by Jesus
1. The Demoniac in the Synagogue (Mk 1:21-28, Lk 4:31-37): A man with an unclean spirit was present when Jesus visited the Capernaum synagogue. Jesus commanded the spirit to be silent and leave the man. The unclean spirit caused the man to convulse, let out a loud cry, and then left him. The onlookers were astonished by this event, as they witnessed Jesus’ power over unclean spirits.
2. The Gerasene Demoniac (Mk 5:1-20, Mt 8:28-34, Lk 8:26-39): Jesus met a man possessed by many demons in the region of the Gerasenes. The demons identified themselves as “Legion” because they were many. Jesus cast them out, allowing them to enter a herd of pigs, which then rush into the sea and drown. This dramatic exorcism demonstrates Jesus’ supreme power over a large number of demons.
3. The Canaanite Woman’s Daughter (Mt 15:21-28, Mk 7:24-30): A Canaanite woman asked Jesus to heal her daughter, who is tormented by a demon. After testing the woman’s faith, Jesus told her that her daughter would be healed. At that moment, the demon departed from the girl. It demonstrates how faith in Jesus can free Gentiles from demonic oppression.
4. The Boy with an Unclean Spirit (Mk 9:14-29, Mt 17:14-21, Lk 9:37-43): A boy possessed by a spirit that causes seizures was brought to Jesus after his disciples fail to cast it out. Jesus reprimanded the unclean spirit, resulting in the boy convulsing one more time before it departed. This event underscores how crucial faith and prayer are in conducting exorcisms.
The gospels present demon-possession as a common phenomenon. They use “Unclean spirit” and “Demon” interchangeably to refer to supernatural beings who could enter the life of humans and take control of them (Mt 12:43-45, Mk 5:2-5). Before the development of scientific clarity on the reasons for diseases, people attributed the cause of mental disabilities to evil spirits. The belief was that the demons were present at tombs and desert places. They caused epilepsy (Mk 9:17-27), mental disorder (Mk 5:1-5) and physical disabilities like dumbness (Mt 9:32-33) and blindness (Mt 12:22). When the sick persons were convinced that the demons had possessed them, they would produce symptoms of the demon possessed. For such people, the cure could happen only when they were convinced that the demon had left them.
Exorcisms by the Disciples
Jesus, who freed the demon possessed, shared that power with his disciples. In the name of Jesus, they healed the abnormal, amply manifesting Jesus’ power over evil spirits.
1. The Mission of the Twelve Apostles (Mt 10:1, Mk 6:7-13, Lk 9:1-6): Jesus gave his twelve disciples authority over unclean spirits and sent them out to preach and heal. The disciples expelled numerous demons and cured many sick individuals. Jesus’ power over demons is also given to his followers on this mission.
2. The Seventy Disciples (Lk 10:1-20): Jesus appointed seventy disciples and sent them out in pairs to every town and place he is about to visit. When the seventy-two disciples returned after their assignment, they shared with Jesus, “‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name.’ Jesus said, ‘I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky’” (Lk 10:17-18). This account highlights how Jesus’ authority over demons can extend to his larger circle of followers.
The disciples continued casting out demons after Pentecost. When Philip preached in Samaria, they paid attention to him, “For unclean spirits, crying out in a loud voice, came out of many possessed people, and many paralyzed and crippled people were cured. There was great joy in that city” (Acts 8:7-8). While Paul, who was at Philippi, cast out a demon from “a slave girl with an oracular spirit, who used to bring a large profit to her owners through her fortune-telling” (Acts 16:16-18).
The exorcisms performed by Jesus and his followers represent Jesus’ dominion over the spiritual realm and the establishment of God’s Kingdom (Mt 12:28). Overcoming demonic forces requires having faith in Jesus and following his teachings. This is illustrated in instances where faith played a central role in the exorcisms (Mt 17:19-20). The disciples’ capability to cast out demons signifies the ongoing mission and authority of Jesus, which is now manifested through them (Jn 14:12).
CATHOLIC TEACHING ON DEMONS
Catholic teaching avers that Satan (devil) and demons were angels when God created them. But they became evil by their wrongdoing (CCC 391). These created spirits had rejected God and his reign out of their free choice (CCC 392). The sins of angels were unforgivable, and they had no chance for repentance just as there is no such chance for humans after death (CCC 393). However, the influence of Satan and demons will have an end with the second coming of Jesus Christ.
DEMONS’ APPOINTED TIME
God has allowed the evil spirits to torment the humans only until the last judgement (Enoch 16:1, Jubilees 10:7–10). The demons knew that the appointed time had not arrived. So, they considered they continue tormenting the humans. However, Jesus, who had power over the evil spirits, expelled the demons from the demoniacs and liberated them from their bondage.
The demons fell down before Jesus (Mk 3:11) not to express homage to him as the Son of God. They were powerlessness in front of Jesus, and they were afraid that he might cast them out from the afflicted people. Even if the demons were the real ones, they were afraid that the Messiah might cast them out to the abyss before the appointed time (Mt 8:29) which would take place only at his Second Coming (Rev 20:1-10).
REFLECTION
Jesus’ power to expel demons highlights his divine control over spiritual realms. This authority has jurisdiction not only over physical ailments but also over the forces of evil. For Christians, this is a reminder that Jesus is the ultimate power and protector against any spiritual adversaries. Believers can find comfort and assurance in the power and authority of Jesus. In moments of spiritual struggle or fear, remembering Jesus’ dominion over evil can provide strength and confidence. Praying in Jesus’ name is invoking the highest authority over all spiritual forces.
Faith is a crucial element in overcoming evil. When the disciples failed to cast out a demon, Jesus pointed out their lack of faith. He emphasized that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains (Mt 17:20). Christians are called to cultivate a deep and unwavering faith. This requires believing in God’s power and promises, even when confronted with seemingly unbeatable difficulties. Strengthening faith requires regular prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship with believers.
Jesus emphasized that prayer and fasting are necessary to expel specific demons. Spiritual disciplines are crucial for believers to maintain strength and discernment. Christians ought to incorporate prayer and fasting into their spiritual routines. These practices aid in developing a stronger connection with God, attaining spiritual wisdom, and fostering the strength to overcome spiritual challenges. Allocating specific times for prayer and fasting can have a transformative effect.
Jesus empowered his disciples to cast out demons, heal the sick, and proclaim the Kingdom of God. This mission was not limited to the first century but continues through all who follow Christ. Every Christian has a role in continuing the mission of Jesus. This entails both proclaiming the Gospel and actively addressing spiritual and physical needs. Believers are called to be agents of God’s kingdom, demonstrating love, compassion, and spiritual authority in their communities.
The New Testament consistently teaches that Christians are engaged in spiritual warfare. The expulsions of demons by Jesus and his disciples serve as a vivid reminder of the ongoing battle between good and evil. Christians must be on guard and ready to face spiritual battles. This involves putting on the full armor of God as described in Ephesians 6:10-18 – truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. By being spiritually equipped, believers can stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
The expulsions of demons by Jesus and his disciples serve as strong evidence of God’s supreme authority and love. These narratives motivate Christians to deepen their faith, practice spiritual disciplines, and actively engage in Jesus’ mission. In doing this, individuals have the opportunity to encounter and exhibit the prevailing strength of Christ in their lives and communities.
Demons represent more than supernatural entities; they symbolize the inner struggles we all face. Fear, doubt, addiction, and despair are the constant adversaries we face every day. Jesus wants to liberate us from internal bondage, just as He expelled external demons. Seek His healing touch and trust in His power.