### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective daimoniṓdēs (G1141) is derived from daimōn (G1142) and daimonion (G1140), both of which refer to a "demon" or "evil spirit." The suffix -ώδης (-ōdēs) denotes "like," "resembling," or "having the nature of." Therefore, the core meaning of daimoniṓdēs is "demon-like," "demonic in nature," or "devilish." It describes something that possesses the qualities, characteristics, or influence associated with evil spiritual beings. This word does not refer to a demon itself, but rather to the manifestation, character, or effect of demonic activity. Its semantic range thus encompasses anything that is inherently hostile to God, destructive, or reflective of the rebellious nature of fallen spirits.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term daimoniṓdēs (G1141) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the Epistle of James:
* [[James 3:15]]: "This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic (daimoniṓdēs)."
In this pivotal verse, James contrasts two distinct types of wisdom. The "wisdom from above" is described as "pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere" [[James 3:17]]. Conversely, the "wisdom" that is *not* from above is characterized as "earthly, natural, demonic." James immediately follows this by explaining its fruits: "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice" [[James 3:16]].
The inclusion of daimoniṓdēs is highly significant. It elevates the discussion beyond mere human error or moral failing, implying that such "wisdom" is not simply misguided but bears the very nature and influence of demonic powers. It suggests that bitter jealousy and selfish ambition are not just human vices, but are manifestations of a spiritual rebellion that aligns with the destructive purposes of demons. This "demonic" wisdom leads to "disorder" (ἀκαταστασία, akatastasia) and "every evil practice" (πᾶν φαῦλον πρᾶγμα, pan phaulon pragma), highlighting its inherently chaotic and destructive nature, mirroring the character of evil spirits.
### Related Words & Concepts
* daimonion (G1140) and daimōn (G1142): These are the direct roots of daimoniṓdēs, referring to "demons" or "evil spirits." Daimoniṓdēs describes something *like* them.
* diabolos (G1228): "Devil," "slanderer." This term specifically refers to Satan, the chief adversary. While daimoniṓdēs describes the *nature* of something influenced by evil spirits, diabolos names the ultimate source of that evil.
* satanas (G4567): "Satan," "adversary." Another primary name for the devil.
* ponēros (G4190): "Evil," "wicked," "malicious." This adjective often describes the inherent nature of evil, including the "evil one" (Satan). The "evil practice" in [[James 3:16]] uses a derivative of this word.
* sarx (G4561): "Flesh," often used in a theological sense to denote the fallen, sinful nature of humanity. The "natural" (ψυχικός, psychikos) aspect of the earthly wisdom in [[James 3:15]] is closely related to the fleshly, unspiritual human condition.
* Concepts: Spiritual warfare, the two kingdoms (God's vs. Satan's), the origin of evil, divine wisdom vs. worldly wisdom, human depravity, and the influence of unseen spiritual forces on human behavior.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of daimoniṓdēs (G1141) in [[James 3:15]] carries profound theological weight. It reveals that certain forms of "wisdom" or human thought patterns are not merely secular or humanistic in their origin but are actively influenced by and partake in the nature of demonic forces. This "earthly, natural, demonic" wisdom stands in stark opposition to the wisdom that descends from God.
This passage underscores the reality of spiritual warfare, not just as overt demonic possession, but as a subtle infiltration of human attitudes and motivations. It teaches that behaviors such as bitter jealousy and selfish ambition are not simply character flaws or social dysfunctions; they are manifestations of a spiritual rebellion that mirrors the destructive and chaotic nature of demons. The word implies that when humans operate from this "wisdom," they are, in essence, acting in alignment with the purposes and character of evil spirits.
For the believer, this serves as a critical warning and a call to spiritual discernment. It highlights the necessity of distinguishing between true, God-given wisdom and its demonic counterfeit. Cultivating the wisdom from above—characterized by purity, peace, and righteousness—becomes essential for resisting these insidious influences and living a life that reflects God's kingdom rather than the kingdom of darkness. It emphasizes that the battle against sin has a deeply spiritual dimension, requiring reliance on God's Spirit to counter the demonic nature of worldly wisdom.
### Summary
The Greek adjective daimoniṓdēs (G1141), meaning "demon-like" or "devilish," appears uniquely in [[James 3:15]]. It describes a form of "wisdom" that is "earthly, natural," and fundamentally aligned with the nature and influence of evil spirits. This wisdom, characterized by bitter jealousy and selfish ambition, leads to disorder and every evil practice. The term underscores the profound spiritual dimension of human sin, revealing that certain destructive behaviors are not merely human failings but bear the very imprint of demonic influence. It highlights the stark contrast between this "demonic" wisdom and the pure, peaceable, and righteous wisdom that originates from God, urging believers to cultivate the latter as a safeguard against spiritual deception and corruption. The word serves as a potent reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the importance of discerning the true source of one's thoughts and actions.
TRV