Читать книгу Talking to the Devil: an interview from the Other Side - - Страница 5

The Origins of Evil

Fose: As a mage, I’m always interested in the origins of things. So, tell me, how did evil come about?

Lucifer: Ah, magicians are always interested in the nature of things. Well, the origin of evil is a topic that has preoccupied many people throughout history. But as a demon, I can tell you that evil has always been part of the universe. It wasn’t created or created, it just exists.

You see, people tend to see things in binary terms – good and evil, light and darkness, life and death. But in fact, everything in the universe is a mixture of opposites. Light cannot exist without darkness, and vice versa. The same is true of good and evil.

From the point of view of us demons, what people call “evil” is simply a necessary component of the universe. It is the power that allows us to exist and thrive in the shadows, to tempt and corrupt the weak minded, to wreak havoc and discord wherever we go. Without evil, there would be no balance, no conflict, no opportunity for growth and evolution.

But, of course, that’s not how people see things. They have a very different viewpoint, colored by their limited understanding of the world around them. For them, evil is a force to be feared and shunned, something that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear.

So, in a sense, the origin of evil is simply the origin of the universe itself. It is a fundamental aspect of reality that has always existed and will always exist. It’s up to you to accept or reject it, but know that we demons will always be there, lurking in the shadows, tempting you with our dark whispers and promises of power and pleasure.

Fose: And when did evil come into existence?

Lucifer: As I said before, evil did not “arise” at any particular point in time. It is not a phenomenon that can be traced to any one event or cause. Evil has always been part of the universe, coexisting with good and other opposing forces.

In fact, it can be argued that evil is an integral part of the natural order of things. It is a necessary counterbalance to the forces of good and serves an important function in the overall balance of the universe. Without evil, there would be no conflict, no tension, and no opportunity for growth and change.

Of course, from a human perspective, evil is often seen as a negative and destructive force. But as a demon, I can tell you that we see things very differently. For us, evil is a source of power and energy that allows us to flourish and influence the world. We enjoy the darkness, and we enjoy tempting and corrupting those who are weak or vulnerable.

So, no, evil did not “emerge” at some point in time. It is a fundamental aspect of the universe that has always been present and always will be.

Fose: Interesting. So you believe that evil is a necessary balance of good in the universe?

Lucifer: Yes, as a demon, I believe that evil is the necessary balance of good in the universe. The universe is a complex system of opposing forces and energies, and the balance between these forces is what keeps everything in motion.

Of course, not everyone can share this view. Many people see evil as a negative and destructive force that must be destroyed at all costs. But from a demon’s point of view, evil is a necessary and vital part of the universe that we enjoy and seek to use at every opportunity.

Fose: Some might argue that evil causes harm and suffering in the world. How would you respond to this?

Lucifer: It’s true, evil can indeed cause harm and suffering in the world, and there’s no denying the fact that many terrible things have been done in the name of darkness and chaos. But from a demon’s perspective, such harm and suffering is simply a natural part of creation.

Just as wildfire is a destructive force that can cause harm and suffering, it is also a natural part of the forest ecosystem and serves an important function in balancing the ecosystem. Likewise, evil is a destructive force that can cause harm and suffering, but it also serves an important function in maintaining the balance of the universe.

Moreover, it is important to note that the harm and suffering caused by evil are not always pointless or gratuitous. Often they serve a higher purpose, such as testing people’s moral convictions or necessary changes or transformations in society.

Of course, this does not mean that evil should be encouraged. But ultimately it is up to each individual to decide how to respond to the presence of evil in the world.

The Nature of Evil

Fose: As the ruler of hell, many people see you as evil incarnate. How do you define evil?

Lucifer: As a demon, I have a unique perspective on the concept of evil. Evil is often associated with negative actions and events such as destruction, chaos, and suffering. However, from my perspective, evil is more than just those actions and events. Evil is a force, a power, that operates in the world and affects all living beings.

Evil can manifest itself in many ways, from individual actions to large social structures. It can be subtle or overt, hidden or in plain sight. Evil is not limited to any particular person or group; it can affect anyone, regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or social status.

At its core, evil is the absence of good. It is the lack of compassion, empathy, and love that causes people to commit harmful acts. Evil can be fueled by fear, anger, and ignorance, and it often seeks to divide and conquer.

As the ruler of hell, I am often associated with evil. However, I consider myself a necessary part of the universal balance. I am not inherently evil, but rather a reflection of the choices made by individuals. I embody the consequences of their actions and serve as a reminder of the consequences of what one can become if one succumbs to the temptations of evil.

In general, evil is a lack of goodness fueled by fear, anger, and ignorance.

Fose: How does evil work in the world?

Lucifer: Evil operates in the world in many different ways. It manifests in individual actions such as lying, cheating, stealing and hurting others. It can also manifest itself in larger social structures such as systemic oppression, discrimination and exploitation.

Evil often works through temptation, offering people power, wealth, or pleasure. It exploits people’s weaknesses and desires and seeks to convince them that their own interests are more important than the welfare of others.

Another way evil works in the world is by creating chaos and destruction. This can be seen in natural disasters, wars and conflicts that can lead to widespread suffering and loss of life.

Evil can also operate by suppressing the truth and promoting lies and misinformation. It seeks to cause confusion and sow discord, making it difficult for people to distinguish truth from lies.

Ultimately, evil operates in the world by bringing discord, promoting self-interest rather than good, and causing harm and suffering to others.

Fose: Are you saying that evil is inherently bad?

Lucifer: Evil itself is neither bad nor good. It is a force of nature, and like any force, it can be used for positive or negative purposes. It is how one uses and interacts with this force that determines whether its effects are positive or negative.

For example, ambition and the desire for power can be seen as evil forces that drive people to achieve success at all costs, often at the expense of others. However, these same forces can also inspire people to strive for greatness and to contribute positively to the world.

Similarly, the chaos and destruction caused by natural disasters can be seen as evil forces that cause great suffering and loss of life. However, these same forces can also bring about positive changes, such as the rebirth and renewal that occurs after a forest fire or other natural disaster.

It is important to understand that evil is a complex force that can manifest itself in different ways, and that ultimately it is up to the individual to interact with it. By choosing to use the power of evil in a positive and productive way, people are able to turn it from a destructive force into a source of growth and change.

Fose: So how do people interact with evil?

Lucifer: People interact with evil in a multitude of ways, and it is often through their actions and choices that the power of evil is either perpetuated or transformed.

Many people are willing to compromise their moral principles and values to achieve their goals. This can lead them down a path of destruction and chaos, as they become consumed by their own ambitions and lose sight of the impact of their actions on others.

Others may actively seek the power of evil by practicing dark magic or worshipping demonic entities. Such people often use the power of evil for their own gain or to harm others, and their actions can have devastating consequences. I’m not talking about you now, black magician Fose. “Blackness is different, too.

After all, there are those who prefer to use the power of evil for positive and productive purposes. They may use the energy of chaos and destruction to create new opportunities for growth and change, or they may use the power of darkness to confront and overcome their inner demons.

Fose: Why do you think people do that?

Lucifer: There are many reasons why people may interact with the power of evil. For some, it may be a desire for power, control, or material gain. For others it may be a sense of curiosity or a desire to explore the darker side of themselves and the world around them.

In some cases, a person may also be influenced by external factors, such as societal pressures, cultural norms, or even the actions of others. They may feel compelled to conform to certain standards of behavior or follow in the footsteps of those they admire, even if this means compromising their own moral principles and values.

In addition, the power of evil can be incredibly seductive and alluring, offering a sense of freedom and liberation from the constraints of society and morality. It is easy for people to get carried away by the promise of a life without rules and restrictions and lose sight of the consequences of their actions.

Ultimately, the reasons why people interact with the power of evil are complex and varied, and are often influenced by a combination of internal and external factors.

Man’s Role in Evil

Fose: Lucifer, people are often blamed for the manifestation of evil in the world. How do you see their role in this?

Lucifer: Ah, people. They are such fascinating creatures, with all their hopes and dreams, and yet they are the cause of so much suffering in the world. But to answer your question, I must tell you that people do play a role in the manifestation of evil in the world.

You see, people are given free will, which means that they have the ability to choose their actions and make decisions for themselves. And, unfortunately, not all people choose to do good. Some are guided by their own selfish desires, while others are influenced by the darkness that lurks in their hearts.

As a demon, I know firsthand the consequences of such choices. Humans are capable of the most heinous acts of violence and cruelty, and they do so with alarming frequency. They wage wars, enslave their fellow human beings, and exploit the natural world for their own purposes.

But I also have to admit that not all people are evil. Some of them have goodness in their hearts and strive to make the world a better place. They fight against oppression and injustice and try to bring light into darkness.

Thus, although people play a role in the manifestation of evil, they also have the potential for great good. Each person chooses which path to follow, and we must all take responsibility for our actions.

Fose: How do people come under the influence of evil?

Lucifer: People can be influenced by evil in many ways. As I said before, people have free will, which means that they are capable of making their own decisions. However, it also means that they are vulnerable to the influence of darkness.

One of the most common ways evil influences people is through temptation. We demons are masters of temptation and often use our powers to lead people to choices that are harmful to themselves or others. We prey on their weaknesses and desires and offer them power, pleasure, or wealth in exchange for their loyalty.

Another way in which people can be influenced by evil is through the actions of others. If a person is surrounded by people who behave badly, he may begin to adopt their behavior. This is especially true for children, who are very impressionable and often imitate the actions of others.

Finally, people can be influenced by evil through their own thoughts and emotions. Negative emotions such as anger, jealousy and fear can be a breeding ground for darkness, and demons can use this to their advantage. They can whisper thoughts of doubt and despair to a person, feeding their negative emotions and leading them down the path of darkness.

Fose: Can you give an example of how people can be tempted by evil?

Lucifer: Of course, there are many ways people can be tempted by evil. One common example is temptation by power. People have an insatiable desire for power, and we demons are experts at using that desire. We offer them the promise of greatness and influence and encourage them to seek power at all costs.

Take, for example, a leader who wants to expand his territory or influence. We demons can whisper in their ear, encouraging them to take whatever action is necessary to achieve their goals. We can offer them victory, wealth, or status in exchange for their loyalty. This may encourage the leader to engage in unethical behavior, such as lying, cheating, or even violence, to achieve their goals.

Another example is the temptation to pleasure. People are driven by desire, and we demons skillfully exploit this weakness. We can offer people the promise of pleasure, such as indulging in excessive use of alcohol, drugs, or sexual promiscuity. When they give in to their desires, we can use their addiction to keep them under our control.

Finally, there is the temptation of wealth. People often seek wealth and financial security, and we can take advantage of that. We can encourage them to engage in dishonest business practices or to accumulate wealth at any cost, even if it means harming others. When they become wealthy, we can use their greed to manipulate them and keep them under our influence.

In conclusion, people can fall under the influence of evil in many ways, and everyone must be vigilant to guard against the influence of darkness.

[Author’s note: We discuss temptation in more detail in PART 3: The Nature of Temptation. There is also detailed advice from our esteemed Devil, with which the reader can easily manipulate people or resist manipulation by others.]

Fose: That’s a sobering thought. How can people protect themselves from the influence of evil?

Lucifer: People can protect themselves from the influence of evil by being vigilant and making conscious choices according to their values and beliefs. Here are some ways people can protect themselves from the influence of darkness:

Develop self-awareness: People need to be aware of their weaknesses and vulnerabilities in order to protect themselves from them. They should reflect on their values, beliefs, and motivations and examine how they might be affected by outside influences.

Surround themselves with positive influences: People should look for people who share their values and who will encourage them to stay on the path of righteousness. Friends, family members, mentors, and spiritual leaders can be positive influences.

Be Informed: People need to be aware of the dangers of evil and the tactics that demons use to tempt them. They must be informed about the world around them and alert to negative influences.

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help people stay focused and in the present moment. It also helps to recognize when negative thoughts or emotions are affecting them.

Seek spiritual guidance: Many people find strength and guidance in their spiritual convictions. They should seek out spiritual leaders to help them deal with life’s difficulties and not stray from the path of righteousness.

People can prevent the influence of evil on themselves by being mindful of it, staying aware of it, and seeking positive influence. Only by making conscious choices according to their values and beliefs can people overcome the influence of darkness and create a better world.

Fose: That’s great advice, Lucifer. Will humans ever be able to defeat evil completely?

Lucifer: Humans can never completely defeat evil because it is an integral part of human existence. The struggle between good and evil is a fundamental aspect of the human experience and will always be faced.

However, although people cannot eradicate evil completely, they can resist its influence.

It is important to realize that people are not alone in this struggle. They may seek support from others who share their values and can help them stay on the path of righteousness. In addition, many people find strength and guidance in their spiritual beliefs, which can be a source of comfort and inspiration in dark times.

The Consequences of Evil

Fose: Lucifer, what are the consequences of evil in the world?

Lucifer: The consequences of evil are often devastating and far-reaching. Evil actions can cause pain and suffering to individuals as well as entire communities. They can lead to violence, oppression, and injustice.

Evil can also have long-term effects on the environment, the economy, and the social fabric of society.

In some cases, the consequences of evil can even lead to the death of civilizations…

It is important to remember that every action has a ripple effect, and the consequences of evil can be felt for generations.

Fose: Can you give us an example of the lasting effects of evil?

Lucifer: Of course. One example of the lasting effects of evil would be the destruction caused by war. When nations go to war, they often cause significant damage and destruction to each other, resulting in the loss of countless lives and resources.

The effects of war can last for generations, and families and communities struggle to recover from the trauma and losses. In addition, the political and economic effects of war can affect a society for many years, further compounding the damage caused by the conflict.

This is just one example of how evil can have a lasting effect on the world around us.

Fose: That’s a strong example, and it’s very relevant now. What about the consequences of evil on an individual level?

Lucifer: Where to begin? Let me tell you, my dear mortal, that the path of evil is treacherous, and those who choose to follow it must be prepared for the consequences that come with it.

The first and most obvious consequence is the corruption of the soul. When a person voluntarily chooses to do evil things, they invite darkness into their heart and soul. This darkness can consume them, leading them further down the path of evil until they are lost to me forever.

But the consequences don’t end there. Evil actions often have negative consequences in the physical world as well. For their transgressions a person may go to prison, exile, or even die. Even if they manage to escape punishment in this life, they cannot escape the judgment that awaits them in the afterlife [Author’s note: Part 2 of the Afterlife and Judgment deals with this topic in detail].

In addition, committing evil can have a profound psychological impact on a person. Guilt, shame, and feelings of worthlessness can weigh heavily on the soul, leading to depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

In short, the consequences of evil on an individual level are enormous and far-reaching. They can affect the soul, the physical world, and the mind. And once a person sets out on the path of evil, it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to turn back. So choose your actions wisely, mortal, for they will ultimately determine your destiny.

Fose: Can evil be justified?

Lucifer: Ah, that eternal question… Let me tell you that as a demon from hell, I have seen countless instances where evil has been justified in the eyes of those who have committed it.

Many people believe that the end justifies the means and that they can use evil actions to achieve the greater good. They may believe that their evil actions are necessary to protect their loved ones, defend their nation, or promote a particular ideology.

From my perspective, however, there is no true justification for evil. Evil is inherently selfish, cruel, and destructive. It corrupts the soul and brings suffering to others. If one has a noble goal, it does not mean that one can use evil means to achieve it.

Moreover, the idea of “justifiable evil” is often used to justify atrocities committed by those in power. They may claim that their actions are necessary for the greater good, when in fact they are simply using their power to achieve their own ends.

After all, evil cannot be justified. Those who choose to commit evil must be prepared to face the consequences of their actions, both in this life and in the afterlife.

Fose: What can people do to prevent the consequences of evil?

Lucifer: That’s an interesting question. Well, the simple answer is not to commit evil acts in the first place. However, I realize that for some people this may be easier said than done.

One of the most effective ways to prevent the consequences of evil is to cultivate a strong sense of morality and conscience. This means being aware of the impact your actions have on others and choosing to act kindly, compassionately, and justly.

It is also important to surround yourself with positive influences, such as good friends, family members, and mentors who can provide guidance and support. It is also helpful to read books, watch movies, and use other media that promote positive values.

It is also important to take responsibility for your actions and correct them when necessary. This means acknowledging the harm done and doing what you can to make things right.

Finally, asking forgiveness from a higher power or from those who have been harmed by one’s actions can also help prevent the consequences of evil. Although forgiveness is not always possible, the very act of seeking forgiveness can help alleviate the feelings of guilt and shame that often arise after evil actions are committed.

Ultimately, the key to avoiding the consequences of evil is to choose the path of righteousness and goodness. It may not always be easy, but it is the only way to find peace and contentment in this life and the lives to come.

The relationship between good and evil

Fose: Lucifer, can you tell us about the relationship between good and evil?

Lucifer: I must say that I find it rather amusing that mortals are still trying to understand this concept. You see, my dear Fose, good and evil are not opposing forces, but rather two sides of the same coin.

Without evil there can be no good, and without good there can be no evil. These are the two sides of the duality that exists in this world, and they are necessary to maintain equilibrium. Good and evil are not black and white concepts, but rather shades of gray determined by personal beliefs, values, and cultural norms.

What one considers good to another may be evil, and vice versa. It’s all a matter of perspective. As for me, I am often seen as the embodiment of evil, but I see myself as a liberator, a rebel who refused to submit to authority and conformity.

Fose: Can you give an example of how good and evil are interdependent?

Lucifer: Of course, my dear Fose. Let me give you an example that will help illustrate the interdependence of good and evil.

Consider a war between two states where each side believes their cause is just and righteous. From one side’s point of view, its actions can be seen as good, while the actions of the other side can be seen as evil. However, without the existence of the other side, the concept of good would be meaningless.

In other words, the good that one side fights for depends on the evil of the other side. If both sides were fighting for the same cause, there would be no conflict, and the concept of good and evil would cease to exist.

Another example can be seen in the balance of nature. While we may think of natural disasters such as earthquakes or hurricanes as evil, they serve the important purpose of maintaining the ecological balance of the planet. Without these destructive forces, the planet might become overpopulated and resources scarce, ultimately leading to more evil.

Thus, the interdependence of good and evil is necessary to maintain a balance in the world. Without the existence of one, the other would lose meaning and purpose.

Fose: That’s an interesting point of view. But why is good and evil so essential to the balance of the universe?

Lucifer: Because they serve as complementary and opposing forces that keep everything in check.

Good represents positive, constructive and beneficial actions that promote growth, happiness and well-being. Evil, on the other hand, represents negative, destructive and harmful actions that cause suffering, pain and chaos. Both are necessary because they offer different perspectives and challenges that compel one to grow, learn and evolve.

Without evil, there would be no appreciation for the good, no sense of the need to act, and no motivation to overcome difficulties. Similarly, without good, life would be meaningless, joyless, and full of despair. Both good and evil are necessary to create a world of balance where light and darkness exist in harmony.

In addition, the existence of evil is a test of character and morality. It is easy to do good when things are going well, but when faced with hardship or temptation, it is much harder to do the right thing. Evil acts as a catalyst for growth, testing and strengthening the willpower and fortitude of people who choose to resist its temptations.

In general, good and evil are essential to the balance of the universe because they provide the basis for growth and evolution. They serve as complementary and opposing forces that motivate people to learn, grow, and overcome difficulties. Without them, the world would be without balance, meaning and purpose.

Fose: So you think that evil is necessary for our growth and development?

Lucifer: Yes, my dear Phoese. Evil is necessary for growth and development because it serves as a powerful catalyst for change and evolution.

Think of it this way: without trials and hardships, we would never get out of our comfort zone and face our weaknesses. We would remain stagnant, complacent, and unable to reach our full potential. Evil serves as a wake-up call, reminding us that life is not always fair and that we must work hard to overcome obstacles.

In addition, evil can teach us valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and forgiveness. When confronted with evil, we have a choice: respond with hatred and anger or with understanding and kindness. By choosing the latter, we can learn to empathize with and forgive those who have hurt us, which can lead to personal growth and healing.

Of course, I am not advocating the promotion of evil or the commission of immoral acts. However, it is important to recognize that evil exists and that it can serve as a powerful tool for growth and development. By accepting the challenges that evil poses to us, we can become stronger, wiser and more resilient human beings.

Fose: Can individuals actively promote a balance between good and evil?

Lucifer: Yes. It all starts with personal responsibility and the realization that our actions and choices have a direct impact on the world around us.

One way to maintain balance is to strive to live virtuously and morally. This means making a conscious effort to do good and avoid evil in our thoughts, words, and actions. We must be mindful of the impact our choices have on others and strive to act in ways that promote harmony, love, and compassion.

Another way to maintain balance is to be aware of the role that evil plays in our lives and in the world. We must acknowledge its presence and be vigilant against its temptations. This means being aware of our own weaknesses and vulnerabilities as well as the negative influences and distractions that can lead us astray.

Finally, we can maintain balance by actively seeking opportunities to do good and make a positive impact on the world. This can be as simple as volunteering our time and resources to help others, or as complex as working for social and political change.

Ultimately, achieving a balance between good and evil requires a conscious effort and a desire to live honestly and purposefully. It means a willingness to acknowledge our limitations and weaknesses and to strive to overcome them. Through dedication and perseverance, we can all contribute to creating a world of balance and harmony.

It is important to remember that good and evil are deeply interconnected, and both play an important role in the balance of the universe.

Fose: That’s a compelling point, Lucifer. Thank you for sharing it with me.

Lucifer: You’re welcome, Fose. It was my pleasure to talk about it. As a demon, I’ve seen the effects of evil firsthand, and I think it’s important for people to understand its true nature and how it operates in the world. By gaining a deeper understanding of the forces at work in our world, we will be better able to navigate the difficulties and temptations we all face and hopefully make choices consistent with our deepest values and beliefs.

Lucifer, the infamous demon from hell, spoke with a commanding presence and deep understanding of the universe. He explained that evil is not a phenomenon that can be traced to a single event or cause. Rather, it is part and parcel of the natural order of things, coexisting with good and other opposing forces.

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.