Significance of Devil
The keyphrase "Devil" in Indian history refers to various interpretations, including a negative entity and a source of conflict in human nature. It highlights how some view devils as teachers and spiritual guides, challenging the notion that religion can exist without them. The text also emphasizes the Devil's embodiment of evil and contrasts its characteristics with divine qualities, illustrating a complex relationship between spirituality and human flaws. Ultimately, it reflects on the broader implications of evil in religious contexts.
Synonyms: Demon, Fiend, Devilish spirit, Evil spirit, Satan, Imp, Tempter, Fallen angel, Lucifer, Beelzebub
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Devil'
In Hinduism, the "Devil" can be interpreted through the figure of Putana. The text describes Putana as a devil upon whose hip the Supreme Lord sat. This suggests a complex relationship between the divine and a figure associated with evil or opposition.
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The text refers to a devil, identified as Putana, on whose hip the Supreme Lord sat.[1]
The concept of Devil in local and regional sources
The Devil embodies negative human traits, challenges religious ideals, and is often viewed as a source of learning. It symbolizes evil's presence, with varied interpretations influencing beliefs about morality and spirituality, as highlighted in the text.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is recognized as the Lord of Anger in the Vedas, as mentioned in the text.[2] (2) This and the flesh are but degrees of difference from God Himself, and is a reference to the degrees of difference described in the text.[3] (3) The old German doctor is now persuaded that some of these are misarranging his affairs of late, according to the text provided.[4] (4) This is characterized by a lack of holiness, knowing as much as God and being as powerful as God, which distinguishes it.[5] (5) This represents the embodiment of evil, and has a place in the world, as mentioned in the text.[6]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) It is an entity residing in human imagination, often associated with uncongenial circumstances, hardships, and evil spirits, representing an antithesis.[7] (2) A symbolic figure hovering over the leaders, influencing them to choose the first path, which is short, sweet and enticing.[8] (3) This is the evil that Iqbal's Superman attacks violently, struggling bitterly to reach his goal and feel oneness with God.[9]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Devils are malevolent entities whose favor is brought upon oneself by abandoning the worship of Vishnu, according to the text.[10]
The concept of Devil in scientific sources
Some regional beliefs attribute the creation of alligators to the Devil, citing the reptile's insatiable hunger and perceived ugliness as evidence of its infernal origins.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The Devil is believed by some Haitian Protestants to have made a pact with Haiti during the Bwa Kayiman ceremony, leading to a history of misery and underdevelopment.[11] (2) Examining key polysemic figures such as the Virgin and this figure reveals the complex blend of race and religion.[12] (3) This being is part of the supernatural world and transcendental beings, representing one cluster of associations with the term ‘evil’.[13] (4) The word used for the devil is chort. This word denotes a minor devil or demon and is never applied to Satan.[14] (5) Some people believe that this entity created alligators because of their all-consuming appetite and ugliness.[15]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) A force that tempts individuals and communities to misuse their freedom, defy Jewish law, and pursue iconoclastic beliefs, often leading to isolation and negative consequences.[16] (2) Are supernatural entities that, according to the Quran, are lapidated with meteors to prevent them from listening to heavenly news, with interpretations varying over time.[17]
Classical concept of 'Devil'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) The devil, referred to as Sut, was dominant in the city of the blind before the second advent of Horus, indicating a battle between light and darkness.[18] (2) A figure also known as the old serpent, the great dragon, and Satan, and is bound for a thousand years.[19] (3) According to the magical prescriptions, in fighting this, or the evil Apap, a figure of the monster was to be moulded in wax with the name inscribed upon it in green.[20]
From: Egyptian Magic
(1) Devils, like gods, were believed to be compelled to obey someone who knew their name and addressed them accordingly.[21]