Demonological

Demonological refers to the study or description of demons and demon-like beings within various religious, magical, and folkloric systems. It encompasses beliefs about the origins, nature, powers, and social roles of demons, as well as practices to interact with or control them. The term is derived from Greek daimon (spirit or deity) and logos (study), with Latin forms such as demonologia used in historical texts.

Historically, demonology emerges in ancient Near Eastern traditions and Jewish apocalyptic literature, with later Christian and Islamic interpretations shaping medieval and early modern demonology. Western demonological lore was popularized by grimoires and compilations that cataloged named demons, their hierarchies, abilities, and methods of invocation or appeasement. Demonology also appears in folklore worldwide, often intertwined with exorcism, apotropaic magic, and rituals to ward off perceived malevolent influences.

Scholarly study treats demonology as a cultural and religious phenomenon rather than a scientific discipline. Methods include comparative religion, anthropology, philology, and the analysis of manuscripts. Key themes include the classification of demonic hierarchies, theories of possession and exorcism, and the social functions of demon beliefs in enforcing moral norms, explaining disease or misfortune, and shaping communal identity. Cross-cultural variation is common in demon descriptions, habitats, powers, and interactions with humans.

In modern contexts, demonology appears in religious studies, anthropology, folklore, and popular culture. Contemporary researchers distinguish between belief-based demonology and academic analysis, often examining how demon ideas reflect human concerns such as trauma, social anxiety, and intergroup conflict. The term is also used in literature, film, and games to discuss depictions of demons and related magical traditions.