Demon

A Demon is a form of dark spirit. The term means “replete with wisdom” and comes from the Greek word Daimon. Some cultures had demonic figures that were not necessarily evil, such as Egypt. Demons at large are well documented in ancient Middle Eastern cultures and it is thought that Hebrews absorbed some knowledge of Demons from Mesopotamia. Sometimes Demons are believed to have been spawned by Lillith, who was to be the first wife of Adam in Jewish beliefs. Christianisation often describes all pagan gods and spirits as demons despite their attributes. The idea is that they are disguises meant to trick humans into worshiping someone other than God. King Solomon was thought to have controlled an army of demons and djinn according to the Testament of Solomon. Jesus was thought to heal some by casting out demons from their bodies. These creatures may be Fallen Angels and can interfere with human affairs. In Christianity they all serve Satan and their purpose is to tempt people and lead their souls to damnation. Hebrew belief saw demons as having a hierarchical system much like the angels. Some believe they seek to drain people physically, mentally, and spiritually. They can cause haunting or possession and are sometimes seen as the cause of all human problems. Most modern interpretations of demons require curses or human action to affect reality. Lower level Demons are thought to interact with Ouija boards and often pretend to be helpful spirits. In the early stages of possession, prayers of deliverance are often used. In cases of total possession, full exorcism rites became necessary. In possession, they can physically manifest much like a poltergeist and even physically interact with people. Sometimes they give off a horrific smell, and they may change shape to become charming and attractive to aid in their deceptions. Full possession allows demons to fully control the body and speak either in their voice or in an altered version of it, often swearing. This may also cause vomiting, levitation, the twisting of limbs, unnatural strength, and foaming from the mouth. Some demons are known to have sexual relations with humans, and this can result in half-human babies. Incubus were thought to be capable of impregnating women and causing them to birth Cambion. They are thought to be capable of being summoned and controlled through magic. Sometimes Demons are thought to serve as Familiars to witches, and these beliefs were common in the era of the Inquisition. Sometimes they can be stopped or repelled with prayer, blessing, or some spiritual change. Sometimes they can be perceived by Psychics or Mediums who often describe them with grotesque forms. Exorcisms often require finding the name of the Demon in question, they may also need people to tell the demon to leave or to use magical or religious rituals.

Citation: Guiley, Rosemary. The Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Spirits. United States, Checkmark Books, 2007.