Demon; Demoniac; Demonology
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Demon; Demoniac; Demonology in the Bible?
The Greek term daimon originally denoted a neutral or benevolent divine power, but later Jewish and Christian texts reinterpreted these entities as malevolent forces opposing God, establishing the foundation for biblical demonology.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this linguistic and theological shift clarifies why New Testament narratives depict Jesus casting out spirits, revealing the cultural context of spiritual warfare and the transition from polytheistic worldviews to strict monotheism.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Demon; Demoniac; Demonology. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Demon; Demoniac; Demonology in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Demon; Demoniac; Demonology clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Demon; Demoniac; Demonology." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/demon-demoniac-demonology/