An Introduction to Demons in Jewish Tradition

In this article, we explore the Jewish tradition of the demonic. Through the Bible, Rabbinic, and mystical lenses, we'll reveal how Jewish thought interprets these supernatural beings, various classes, and their impact on the human experience.

An Introduction to Demons in Jewish Tradition

In a previous article, we explored the concept of a Dybuk¹, noting some key differences between these 'clinging souls' and demons. In this work, we will shift our focus to the world of the demonic, and hopefully add some insight into the depth of this tradition.

Since ancient times, virtually every culture has had some component of demonic lore. Though modern Western culture has somewhat dismissed these ideas, recent years have seen a resurgence in the collective interest.

Biblical Foundations

The belief in a demonic realm has occupied an important place in Jewish mysticism. Not only in the schools of the esoteric—these ideas have been impactful throughout all aspects of Jewish literature, influencing Jewish law and customs.

Though the Hebrew Bible makes references to demons, the writings from the late and post-Second Temple era begin to give us deeper clues into the traditions. An early reference to the demonic can be found in the Hebrew of Deuteronomy 32:24:

Wasting famine, ravaging plague, Deadly pestilence (Ketev Meriri), and fanged beasts Will I let loose against them, with venomous creepers in dust.

On this verse, the Talmud² states:

... the ketev meriri, a demon mentioned in the Torah (Deuteronomy 32:24). There are two types of ketev demons, one that comes before noon in the morning and the other one comes in the afternoon. The one that comes before noon is called ketev meriri, ...

Some also point to Isaiah 34:14 as a reference to Lilith (לילית). Derived from the same Hebrew root as the word Layla (night), Lilith is often associated with nighttime.

The Midrash says Lilith was originally Adam's first wife before rebelling against her role as second to Adam. Thus, Lilith became a symbol of seduction and female independence, which inspired the Lilith Fair of the late 1990s in the United States.

Arguably one of the most popular demons in literature, Lilith can also be understood to represent a particular class of demons.

Common Characteristics

Many discussions can be found in the tradition, seeking to understand when and where demons originated. Though there are many classes, according to some opinions, demons were created in the last hours of the week of creation.

They also seem to operate in between the physical and spiritual world—.Assuyah and Yetzirah. They can influence our dreams, psychology, and emotions—which is a warning to those who play with the supernatural without the proper protection. One should not be surprised if one's life seems to take a negative course afterward.

Generally, it is taught that demons outnumber humans. One opinion states that each person could be surrounded by thousands at a time³. When we are under their influence, they can influence our behavior, leech our energy, and interfere with our lives.

It seems demons have a general preference to remain hidden from human view. There is a story in Talmud Bava Batra 73 where one particular demon broke this rule and was punished for it.

It seems we should be thankful for our limited spiritual perception as the Sages warn that it would be terrible if we were permitted to see the entities around us:

If the eye was permitted to see, no creature would be able to withstand the abundance and ubiquity of the demons and continue to live unaffected by them.
- Berakhot 6

Though some classes are described as such, we should not think of all demons as entirely animalistic and monstrous. Tradition indicates that they possess intelligence and wisdom that can exceed people. The Talmud records some surprising encounters involving demons, some of whom the Sages had rational conversations with.

Various aspects of the tradition indicate that Solomon built the first Holy temple with the help of Angels and even Demons! For those interested, it is worth reading the tale of Asmodai, the demon king whom King Solomon co-opted to help in his construction project⁵.