Random Thought #73: The Circle N The Square

The misconception around the word “demon” spawns from the popularization of Christianity’s definition of “demon” as a “fallen angel.” All squares are rectangles, but not every rectangle is a square. What I mean is that though fallen angels are indeed demons, not every demon falls under that classification.

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I could go on with the idea above, but instead of providing examples of different demons, I’ll give my definition, or rather distinction, of “angels” & “demons.” What I consider the distinction between the two is their obligation to the world from our perspective.

Both angels & demons exist as entities in separate realms. That’s why they’re described as “holy” & “unholy,” with the only real distinction between the two being, once again, their obligation to our world.

There’s an implication that angels are beings who serve the creator of this realm, whereas demons are beings who serve a god-like being who created another realm. Their obligation is to their own domain, just as angels’ obligation is to our domain.

My favorite example is from “The Elder Scrolls” series. There, their angelic & demonic beings are called “aedra” & “daedra” – roughly meaning “our ancestors” & “not our ancestors” which I think sums up the point well. Our ancestors are looking over us, whereas the ancestors of strangers are unconcerned with our wellbeing…normally.