### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **daimoniṓdēs**, represented by `{{G1141}}`, means **devilish** and is described as dæmon-like. It is derived from δαιμόνιον and δαίμων. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting its focused application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G1141}}` is used to describe a type of wisdom that is not from God. The verse states, "This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, **devilish**" [[James 3:15]]. Here, `{{G1141}}` is the final characteristic in a list that defines a worldly and unspiritual form of wisdom, placing it in direct opposition to wisdom that originates from above.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in the immediate context of [[James 3:15]] help to define the nature of this false wisdom by contrasting it with true wisdom:
* `{{G1919}}` **epígeios** (worldly (physically or morally):--earthly, in earth, terrestrial.): This word establishes the origin of the false wisdom as belonging to the world. It is used to describe those who mind **earthly things** [[Philippians 3:19]].
* `{{G5591}}` **psychikós** (sensitive, i.e. animate...:--natural, sensual.): This describes a wisdom that is merely natural or soulish, as opposed to spiritual. It is used to characterize the "**natural** man" who does not receive the things of the Spirit of God [[1 Corinthians 2:14]].
* `{{G509}}` **ánōthen** (from above; by analogy, from the first; by implication, anew:--from above, again, from the beginning (very first), the top.): This term indicates the source of true wisdom. In contrast to devilish wisdom, every good and perfect gift is "**from above**," coming from the Father [[James 1:17]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1141}}` carries significant theological weight by establishing a clear distinction between divine and ungodly wisdom.
* **A Demonic Counterfeit:** The term **devilish** explicitly marks this false wisdom not merely as human error, but as having a dæmon-like character. It is presented as a counterfeit to the true "wisdom that is **from above**" [[James 3:17]].
* **Origin Defines Nature:** The passage [[James 3:15]] teaches that the origin of a wisdom determines its quality. Wisdom that is **earthly** `{{G1919}}` and **sensual** `{{G5591}}` is ultimately categorized as **devilish** `{{G1141}}` because it does not descend **from above** `{{G509}}`.
* **Exclusion of Worldly Wisdom:** By describing this wisdom as something that "descendeth **not** from above" [[James 3:15]], the text creates a stark and exclusive division. There is no middle ground between the wisdom of God and the wisdom that is worldly, natural, and demonic in nature.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1141}}` **daimoniṓdēs** is a powerful and specific term used only once in scripture to label a kind of wisdom as **devilish**. Its appearance in [[James 3:15]] serves as the ultimate condemnation of wisdom that is **earthly** `{{G1919}}` and **sensual** `{{G5591}}`. Though rare, this word provides a critical theological category, forcing a distinction between wisdom that comes **from above** `{{G509}}` and a counterfeit wisdom that is fundamentally opposed to God in its origin and nature.
TRV