Demons are generally understood as evil spirits that are antagonistic to God's purposes and seek to corrupt, harm, or mislead humanity through deception, temptation, and sometimes possession, aiming to destroy human well-being and corrupt souls. They are often considered fallen angels who, along with Satan, were cast out of heaven for their rebellion. In comparison, demons in fantasy and popular culture are frequently depicted as ugly, monstrous beings or powerful spirits originating from other planes of existence, such as the abyss. While in Islamic tradition, demons are a class of malevolent jinn—spiritual beings made of fire—distinct from angels, and they have free will and are under God's judgment and are destined for the final judgment. In Christianity, they are often viewed as fallen angels who followed Satan in a rebellion against God, and their primary goal is to interfere with the relationship between people and Christ. Despite their varied portrayals, they remain largely agreed upon as absolutely evil, with their primary aim being the corruption of souls and destruction. In other traditions, the term can refer to a broader range of supernatural spirits. While commonly associated with evil, the concept of a demon in various cultures and religions can encompass both malevolent and, in some contexts, benevolent spirits. The term "demon" originates from the Greek word daimōn, which initially referred to any supernatural being, not necessarily just an evil one.
However, their specific origins and nature vary across different cultures and religions. In contemporary times, "demons" can also be used metaphorically to refer to inner psychological struggles or negative internal processes.
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