from (to distribute fortunes); a dæmon or supernatural spirit (of a bad nature):--devil.
Transliteration:daímōn
Pronunciation:dah'-ee-mown
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term δαίμων (daímōn, `{{G1142}}`) carries a distinct semantic trajectory from its classical Greek origins to its usage within the biblical corpus. In classical Greek literature, *daímōn* could refer to a divine power, a lesser deity, or a guiding spirit, often neutral or even benevolent, responsible for distributing fortunes or influencing destiny. Philosophers like Socrates spoke of an inner *daimonion* as a divine voice or sign.
However, the biblical usage, particularly in the Septuagint and the New Testament, represents a significant semantic narrowing and negative redefinition. Here, δαίμων consistently denotes a malevolent, supernatural spirit, an agent of evil. It is never used in a positive or neutral sense to describe a divine or benevolent being. This shift aligns with the monotheistic worldview of Judaism and Christianity, where there is only one true God, and all other spiritual entities not aligned with Him are considered adversarial. The Strong's definition accurately captures this biblical meaning as "a dæmon or supernatural spirit (of a bad nature)." It is crucial to distinguish *daímōn* from διάβολος (diábolos, `{{G1228}}`), which specifically refers to Satan, the chief adversary. *Daímones* are understood as subordinate evil spirits under Satan's dominion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δαίμων (daímōn, `{{G1142}}`), along with its more frequently used diminutive form δαιμόνιον (daimónion, `{{G1140}}`), appears primarily in the New Testament, especially within the Synoptic Gospels and the book of Acts. Their occurrences are predominantly in contexts describing demonic possession and the exercise of spiritual authority.
In the Gospels, *daímones* are depicted as the cause of various physical and mental afflictions, such as muteness [[Matthew 9:32]], blindness [[Matthew 12:22]], convulsions [[Mark 1:26]], and severe mental distress [[Mark 5:1-20]]. Jesus' ministry is characterized by His unparalleled power over these spirits. His exorcisms are not merely acts of healing but profound demonstrations of His divine authority and the inbreaking of God's kingdom, triumphing over the kingdom of darkness. For instance, in Capernaum, Jesus casts out a *daímōn* with a word, astonishing the crowd and establishing His unique authority [[Mark 1:21-28]]. The episode of the Gerasene demoniac vividly portrays the collective power of many *daímones* and Jesus' complete dominion over them, even allowing them to enter a herd of pigs [[Mark 5:1-20]]. Jesus also commissions His disciples with authority to cast out *daímones*, extending His ministry of spiritual liberation [[Matthew 10:1]], [[Luke 10:17]].
Beyond individual affliction, the New Testament also associates *daímones* with idolatry and false teachings. Paul asserts that sacrifices offered to idols are offered to *daímones* and not to God, warning believers against participation in such practices [[1 Corinthians 10:20-21]]. This indicates that behind pagan worship lies a spiritual reality of demonic influence. Furthermore, in prophetic warnings, the apostle Paul speaks of a future apostasy characterized by people giving heed to "deceitful spirits and doctrines of *daímones*" [[1 Timothy 4:1]], highlighting their role in promoting spiritual deception. The book of Revelation also mentions *daímones* as unclean spirits that gather the kings of the earth for battle [[Revelation 16:14]] and are part of the judgment on those who do not repent of their idolatry [[Revelation 9:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of δαίμων (daímōn, `{{G1142}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship with several other key biblical terms and theological concepts:
* **δαιμόνιον (daimónion, `{{G1140}}`):** This is the diminutive form of *daímōn* and is significantly more prevalent in the New Testament. In practice, *daimónion* is used interchangeably with *daímōn* to refer to an evil spirit or demon. There is no substantive difference in meaning in the biblical context.
* **πνεῦμα ἀκάθαρτον (pneuma akatharton) / πνεῦμα πονηρόν (pneuma ponēron):** "Unclean spirit" and "evil spirit" are common synonymous phrases used in the Gospels, particularly by the Synoptic writers, to describe the same malevolent entities referred to as *daímones*. This interchangeability reinforces their nature as spirits opposed to God's holiness and goodness.
* **διάβολος (diábolos, `{{G1228}}`):** Meaning "devil" or "slanderer," this term refers specifically to Satan, the arch-enemy of God and humanity. While *daímones* are evil spirits, they are understood to be subordinates or agents of Satan. Satan is the chief of the *daímones*, ruling over a kingdom of darkness.
* **Σατανᾶς (Satanas, `{{G4567}}`):** This is the Hebrew transliteration for "Satan," meaning "adversary." It is another primary designation for the ultimate evil entity who commands the *daímones*.
* **Fallen Angels:** The biblical understanding of *daímones* is often connected to the concept of fallen angels—spiritual beings created good by God but who rebelled against Him and were cast out of heaven. Passages like [[Jude 1:6]] and [[2 Peter 2:4]] speak of angels who sinned and are reserved for judgment, providing a theological framework for the origin of these malevolent spirits.
* **Spiritual Warfare:** The existence and activity of *daímones* necessitate the biblical concept of spiritual warfare. Believers are called to recognize that their struggle is not 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]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of δαίμων (daímōn, `{{G1142}}`) is profound and multifaceted, illuminating key aspects of biblical theology:
* **Reality of Evil:** The consistent portrayal of *daímones* affirms the biblical truth of the objective reality of malevolent spiritual beings. These are not mere psychological constructs or personifications of evil but distinct, intelligent, and powerful entities actively opposing God's will and seeking to harm humanity. Their existence underscores the cosmic scope of sin and rebellion.
* **Christ's Supremacy and Authority:** Jesus' unparalleled power over *daímones* is a central demonstration of His divine authority and messianic identity. His exorcisms were not merely acts of compassion but declarations of His sovereignty over the forces of darkness. They signified the decisive inbreaking of God's kingdom and the beginning of the end for Satan's dominion. Through Christ, humanity is offered liberation from demonic oppression.
* **The Kingdom of God vs. The Kingdom of Darkness:** The encounters with *daímones* highlight the fundamental conflict between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness, ruled by Satan. Jesus' ministry is depicted as an invasion of Satan's territory, liberating captives and establishing God's reign. This cosmic struggle continues, with believers called to participate in Christ's victory through faith and obedience.
* **Warning Against Idolatry and Deception:** The association of *daímones* with idolatry and false doctrines underscores the spiritual danger of turning away from the one true God. Worship of idols is presented not merely as a misguided practice but as a form of communion with evil spirits, leading to spiritual defilement and bondage. Similarly, *daímones* are agents of spiritual deception, propagating lies that lead people astray from divine truth.
* **Call to Spiritual Vigilance and Discernment:** The reality of *daímones* necessitates spiritual vigilance, discernment, and reliance on divine power for believers. The New Testament calls for believers to be sober-minded and watchful [[1 Peter 5:8]], to test the spirits [[1 John 4:1]], and to stand firm in the armor of God against the schemes of the devil and his agents [[Ephesians 6:11-18]].
### Summary
The Greek word δαίμων (daímōn, `{{G1142}}`), while carrying a broader meaning in classical Greek, is consistently used in the biblical context to refer exclusively to malevolent supernatural spirits. These *daímones* are depicted as agents of Satan, actively engaged in spiritual warfare against God and humanity. Their primary activities include afflicting individuals through possession, promoting idolatry, and propagating false doctrines. The New Testament profoundly emphasizes Jesus' absolute authority over *daímones*, showcasing His divine power and the decisive victory of God's kingdom over the forces of darkness. The reality of *daímones* underscores the ongoing cosmic conflict between good and evil, calling believers to spiritual vigilance, discernment, and unwavering reliance on the triumphant power of Christ.
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