The History of the Devil (ABC God Forbid)

Associate Professor Robyn Whitaker was on a recent episode of ABC’s God Forbid with Sami Shah talking about the devil along with Emeritus Professor Philip C. Almond and American Satanist, Lilith Starr.

The devil has an interesting history. In the biblical tradition Satan (the satan) is originally part of God’s heavenly entourage, an accuser figure who tests people like Job. Later this figure is associated with a fallen or rebellious angel. In the New Testament, the devil has become something separate from God and has many names – dragon, diabolos, Satan, Lucifer, and Belial.

During the Medieval period, the devil was a dominant image in Christianity. These days he is even the subject of sexy Netflix dramas like Lucifer. The devil has had quite the makeover!

More seriously, the existence of a devil figure raises important theological questions about how we imagine sin, the force of evil, and the nature of suffering.

You can listen to the episode here or look for God Forbid wherever you find your podcasts.