devil worship etymology

Etymology and Meaning

"Devil worship" is a term used to describe religious beliefs and practices that are believed to involve the adoration or worship of a deity or supernatural being commonly known as the devil. It is often associated with concepts of evil, darkness, and the underworld.

The word "devil" originates from the Middle English word "devel," which in turn comes from the Old English word "deofol," derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*deubilaz." This word is cognate with the Sanskrit word "deva," which means "shining one" or "god."

Origins

The concept of devil worship has been present in various cultures and religions throughout history.

  • Ancient Mesopotamia: In ancient Mesopotamia, the demon Pazuzu was widely feared and believed to bring nightmares and disease.
  • Ancient Greece: The Greek god Hades was the ruler of the underworld and was often associated with death and darkness.
  • Christianity: In Christianity, the devil, also known as Satan, is portrayed as a fallen angel who leads humans astray and tempts them to sin.
  • Islam: In Islam, Iblis is the original devil who was thrown out of heaven for refusing to bow down to Adam.
  • Modern Paganism: Some modern pagan and occult groups incorporate the concept of a devil, often representing the dark and chaotic aspects of nature.

Terminology and Usage

The term "devil worship" is often used in a pejorative sense to describe practices that are perceived as evil or harmful. However, it is important to note that not all beliefs and practices that involve the devil are necessarily associated with evil. Some groups may view the devil as a symbol of rebellion or a source of knowledge and power.

The use of the term "devil worship" can also vary depending on the cultural and religious context in which it is used. In some cases, it may simply refer to the study or exploration of beliefs related to the devil, while in other cases, it may carry negative connotations of actual worship or involvement in harmful practices.

devil worship relate terms

  • devil

    Etymology The word devil originates from the Greek word diabolos which means sland

  • demon

    Etymology The word demon is derived from the Greek word daimon δαίμων which

  • worship

    Etymology The word worship comes from the Old English word weorthscipe which means

  • worth

    Etymology Worth originates from the Old English word weorþ or weorþe which mean

  • daredevil

    Etymology The word daredevil is a compound of two words Dare Middle English daren

  • cult

    Etymology The word cult comes from the Latin word cultus which means worship re

  • warlock

    Etymology The word warlock derives from Old English wærloga which means oath break

  • adore

    Etymology French adorer to adore worship 12th century from Latin adorare to ador

  • Puck

    Etymology Puck The name Puck is thought to have derived from several possible sources

  • jejune

    Etymology Latin ieiunus empty fasting Proto Indo European h₁eyǵʰ empty h

  • mosque

    Etymology The word mosque originates from the Arabic word masjid which means a pla

  • explode

    Etymology Explode is derived from the Latin term explodere which means to drive out

  • trespass

    Etymology of Trespass The word trespass originated from the Old French term trespas

  • squander

    Etymology Middle English scaterin scateren Old English scaterian Proto Germanic sk