### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term δαιμόνιον (G1140), transliterated as *daimónion*, is the neuter form of a derivative of δαίμων (*daimōn*). In classical Greek, δαίμων could refer to a divine power, a god, or a spirit, which might be benevolent or malevolent. However, in the Septuagint (LXX) and the New Testament, the semantic range of δαιμόνιον is significantly narrowed and almost exclusively refers to a malevolent spiritual being, an evil spirit, or a demon. It never denotes a good spirit, an angel, or God Himself within the biblical corpus. The Strong's definition's "by extension a deity" applies more to classical pagan contexts than to the consistent usage within the biblical text. Thus, in biblical theology, δαιμόνιον signifies a member of the host of evil, fallen spirits, subservient to Satan, capable of influencing, afflicting, and possessing human beings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δαιμόνιον occurs frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels, where it is central to understanding Jesus' ministry and authority.
* **Jesus' Authority over Demons:** A significant portion of Jesus' public ministry involved casting out δαιμόνια. These acts were not merely miracles of healing but profound demonstrations of His divine power and the inauguration of God's kingdom, directly confronting the kingdom of darkness. Examples include the Gerasene demoniacs ([[Matthew 8:28-34]], [[Mark 5:1-20]], [[Luke 8:26-39]]), the man with an unclean spirit in the synagogue at Capernaum ([[Mark 1:21-28]], [[Luke 4:31-37]]), and the mute demoniac ([[Matthew 9:32-34]]). Jesus' ability to cast out δαιμόνια by His word alone underscored His unique authority.
* **Disciples' Commission:** Jesus granted His disciples authority over δαιμόνια ([[Matthew 10:1]], [[Luke 9:1]]), and they reported success in this ministry ([[Luke 10:17]]). This indicates that the power to overcome these evil spirits was not exclusive to Jesus but extended to those He authorized.
* **Accusations against Jesus:** Jesus was often accused by His opponents of casting out δαιμόνια by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons ([[Matthew 12:24]], [[Mark 3:22]], [[Luke 11:15]]). Jesus refuted this, arguing that if Satan cast out Satan, his kingdom would be divided, thereby affirming His power came from God's Spirit.
* **Connection to Idolatry:** In the Pauline epistles and Revelation, δαιμόνια are explicitly linked to idolatry. Paul warns against participating in pagan sacrifices, stating that "what pagans sacrifice they offer to δαιμόνια and not to God" ([[1 Corinthians 10:20-21]]). This clarifies that the worship of false gods is, in essence, an unwitting homage to these malevolent spirits. [[Revelation 9:20]] similarly condemns those who do not repent of worshipping δαιμόνια and idols.
* **Distinct from Satan:** It is crucial to distinguish δαιμόνιον from διάβολος (diabolos, `{{G1228}}`), the Devil or Satan. While δαιμόνια are subordinate to Satan, they are distinct entities. διάβολος refers to the singular chief adversary, whereas δαιμόνια are his numerous agents.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **διάβολος (diabolos, `{{G1228}}`):** The Devil, Satan, the primary adversary who leads the δαιμόνια.
* **πνεῦμα ἀκάθαρτον (pneuma akatharton, `{{G4151}}` `{{G169}}`):** Unclean spirit. This phrase is often used synonymously with δαιμόνιον in the Gospels, emphasizing the defiling and corrupting nature of these entities.
* **Σατανᾶς (Satanas, `{{G4567}}`):** Satan, the Hebrew equivalent of διάβολος, referring to the arch-enemy.
* **Βεελζεβούλ (Beelzeboul, `{{G954}}`):** Beelzebul, a specific title for a prince of demons, often identified with Satan himself.
* **Possession:** The state where a δαιμόνιον indwells and controls a person, often resulting in physical, mental, or spiritual affliction.
* **Exorcism:** The act of casting out δαιμόνια, a key aspect of Jesus' and His disciples' ministry.
### Theological Significance
The biblical understanding of δαιμόνιον carries profound theological significance:
* **Reality of Spiritual Evil:** The consistent portrayal of δαιμόνια affirms the reality of personal, spiritual evil in the world, distinct from mere human sinfulness or psychological disorder. It underscores that the conflict humanity faces is not only against "flesh and blood but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" ([[Ephesians 6:12]]).
* **Jesus' Victory over Darkness:** Jesus' power over δαιμόνια is a primary demonstration of His divine authority and the decisive victory of God's kingdom over Satan's dominion. His ministry is presented as a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness, disarming its powers and bringing liberation to those enslaved.
* **Warning Against Idolatry:** The explicit connection between δαιμόνια and idolatry highlights that worship of anything other than the one true God is not merely misdirected but is, in essence, an allegiance to evil spiritual forces, leading to spiritual bondage and defilement.
* **Comprehensive Nature of Salvation:** Jesus' work of casting out δαιμόνια is an integral part of His holistic mission of salvation, which includes not only forgiveness of sins but also healing, liberation, and restoration for the entire person—spirit, soul, and body.
* **Spiritual Warfare for Believers:** The existence and activity of δαιμόνια underscore the ongoing reality of spiritual warfare for believers, necessitating vigilance, reliance on God's power, and the authority given through Christ to resist and overcome demonic influence.
### Summary
The Greek word δαιμόνιον (G1140) in the New Testament refers exclusively to a malevolent spiritual being, an evil or unclean spirit, operating under the authority of Satan. It is never used to describe a benevolent deity or a good spirit. Jesus' ministry is characterized by His supreme authority over these δαιμόνια, casting them out to liberate the afflicted and demonstrate the inbreaking of God's kingdom. The term also serves as a critical warning, linking idolatry directly to the worship of these evil entities. Understanding δαιμόνιον is essential for comprehending the biblical worldview regarding spiritual warfare, the nature of evil, and the comprehensive, redemptive power of Christ's victory over the forces of darkness.
TRV