As a magician, I found this viewpoint both fascinating and frightening. On the one hand, it was intriguing to consider the possibility that evil could serve a higher purpose, causing people to grow and evolve morally. But on the other hand, the idea that demons like Lucifer were actively trying to use this power for their own malevolent purposes was deeply disturbing.
Throughout our interview, Lucifer made no secret of his predilection for evil. He saw it as a source of strength and energy, and he enjoyed tempting and corrupting those who were weak or vulnerable. It was a stark reminder that while some beings may view evil as a necessary balance of good, others may actively seek to exploit it for their own selfish ends.
The concept of evil was not simple, and the consequences of its existence were far-reaching and complex. But perhaps this is why it is so important to continue to explore this subject, to ask the hard questions, and to seek a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our world. I continued our communication.
Chapter 2. The role of choice
The concept of evil
Fose: You, Lucifer, are one of the most famous and discussed demons in history, and Im very happy to be able to talk to you. Could you share your understanding of the concept of evil?
Lucifer: Of course. Evil is a term that has been used throughout human history to describe a force that is destructive and harmful. Many people see it as a kind of moral decay that can harm individuals and society as a whole.
Fose: This is a very interesting point of view. How do you think different cultures and belief systems interpret the concept of evil?
Lucifer: Well, thats a complicated question. Different cultures and belief systems have their own interpretations of evil based on their unique history, traditions and values. For example, some religions see evil as the work of demons or other supernatural beings. Others view it as a natural part of the human experience or as a result of human choices or actions.
Fose: Thats very interesting. Can you give some concrete examples of how different cultures interpret evil?
Lucifer: Of course. Christianity often associates evil with Satan and the fall of man. In Hinduism it is seen as the result of ignorance and attachment to material things. In Buddhism, evil is seen as the result of ones own negative thoughts and actions, not the action of external forces.
Fose: These are very different interpretations. How do you think these different views of evil affect peoples lives?
Lucifer: I think the way people perceive evil can have a profound effect on their lives. If they perceive it as something outside of themselves, they are more likely to blame others for their problems. But if they see it as part of themselves, they may be more willing to take responsibility for their actions and work to overcome their negative tendencies.
Fose: Interesting. Could you talk about your own role in the concept of evil?
Lucifer: As a demon, I often associate with evil. But I think the concept of evil is more complex than simply defining certain beings as good or bad. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide what kind of person they want to be and what actions they want to take in this world. I believe that each person is capable of both good and evil, and it is up to him or her to decide which path he or she will take.
The Origin of Evil
Fose: Can you tell us about the origin of evil?
Lucifer: Of course. Evil arose as a natural consequence of free will. When sentient beings were allowed to make choices, it was inevitable that some of them would choose to do the wrong thing. Such is the price of free will.
Fose: So what youre saying is that evil is just a byproduct of free will?
Lucifer: Yes, thats right. It is important to remember that evil is not a tangible thing. It is simply the absence of goodness, the absence of God. When beings choose to turn away from God, they are left with that absence.
Fose: Could you elaborate on how rebellion against God and falling away from grace contributed to evil?
Lucifer: When I rebelled against God, I was not the first to do so. There were other angels who had already fallen from grace. Our rebellion was fueled by pride and a desire for power. We wanted to be equal to God or even superior to Him. But our rebellion was doomed from the beginning because we could never truly compete with Gods power and goodness.
Fose: And how did this rebellion lead to the emergence of evil?
Lucifer: Our rebellion has caused a great division between those who have remained faithful to God and those who have not. This division created a vacuum that evil gladly filled. Evil thrives in the absence of good, and rebellion against God created that absence. It allowed darkness, sin, and all forms of evil to emerge.
Fose: I see. And do you believe that evil will always be part of the universe?
Lucifer: As long as sentient beings have free will, there will always be the potential for evil. After all, everyone has a choice
The power of choice
Fose: First, I would like to ask you about your role in influencing human behavior. How great is your responsibility for human evil and suffering?
Lucifer: It is a common misconception that I am entirely responsible for human suffering. People have the right to choose. I can tempt them, but ultimately it is up to them to decide their actions.
Fose: So youre saying that people have the power to resist your temptations?
Lucifer: Absolutely. I have no power to control peoples behavior. I can only offer them a choice. Its up to them to decide whether to accept or reject evil.
Fose: Thats an interesting point of view. Could you explain why you think human choice is so important?
Lucifer: Human choices are important because they enable a person to determine his or her own destiny. Every decision a person makes has consequences, and those consequences can be positive or negative. Using their free will, people can determine the course of their lives.
Fose: But isnt there a risk that some people will make the wrong choice and suffer as a result?
Lucifer: Of course. That is the nature of free will. People are capable of making both good and bad choices. But even bad choices can lead to growth and self-discovery. Its all part of the human experience.
Fose: So you think that people should accept their ability to make choices, even if those choices lead to suffering?
Lucifer: Absolutely. Accepting free will is essential to the human experience. It is what makes humans unique and powerful beings. Without free will, humans would be nothing more than automatons.
The Temptation of Evil
Fose: As you know, many people are attracted to evil as something forbidden. Can you tell me why this is so?
Lucifer: Of course, Fose. Actually, its very simple. Evil can be incredibly seductive to people because it offers immediate gratification and pleasure. It promises power, wealth and glory without the need for hard work and sacrifice. It is the path of least resistance, and it is very attractive to many people.
Fose: That makes sense. But why is it so hard for people to resist the seductive nature of evil?
Lucifer: Well, Fose, youre a mage, and human experience has been foreign to you for a long time. And humans are inherently imperfect creatures. They are prone to selfishness, greed, and pride. It is these qualities that make evil so attractive. Evil takes advantage of these weaknesses and amplifies them, making it even harder for people to resist.
Fose: So what can people do to overcome the temptation to evil?