Talking to the Devil: an interview from the Other Side

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.

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 I’m 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, that’s 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: That’s 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 one’s 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 people’s 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 you’re saying is that evil is just a byproduct of free will?

Lucifer: Yes, that’s 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 God’s 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 you’re saying that people have the power to resist your temptations?

Lucifer: Absolutely. I have no power to control people’s behavior. I can only offer them a choice. It’s up to them to decide whether to accept or reject evil.

Fose: That’s 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 isn’t 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. It’s 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, it’s 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, you’re 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?

Lucifer: It’s not easy, but it’s possible. First, people have to admit their weaknesses and vulnerabilities. They must be honest with themselves about what drives them and what they desire. Once they have identified these things, they must work on strengthening their willpower and self-control. This can be done through meditation, prayer, or other forms of spiritual practice.

Fose: That sounds like a lot of work. Is it really worth it for the average person?

Lucifer: Absolutely. The rewards for resisting evil far outweigh the temporary pleasures it provides. When people choose the path of righteousness, they discover a life of joy, fulfillment and purpose. They become better, more compassionate and loving people. And ultimately they will be rewarded with eternal life in the presence of God.

Fose: Thank you, Lucifer, for your thoughts on this important subject. Obviously, confronting evil is a difficult but worthy endeavor. We can all learn from your wisdom and strive to be better people.

The Persistence of Evil

Fose: So, Lucifer, can you explain to our readers why evil exists in the universe?

Lucifer: Of course. It exists because the universe is inherently imperfect. It is a chaotic and unpredictable place where things don’t always go according to plan. No matter how hard man tries to bring order to the universe, there will always be chaos and destruction lurking around the corner.

Fose: Do you believe that people can control evil?

Lucifer: People have free will and can choose good or evil. However, no matter what choice they make, evil will always exist in the universe. Evil is not something that can be completely eliminated. It is a force that is present in all aspects of life, and it is a necessary component of the universe.

Fose: What do you mean by “necessary”?

Lucifer: I’ve said it before… Without evil there would be no progress, no evolution, no growth.

Fose: Can you give us an example of how evil played a role in shaping the universe?

Lucifer: Sure. Take, for example, the Black Death [Author’s note: a pandemic of plague that peaked between 1346 and 1353, with repeated outbreaks continuing into the 19th century. According to various estimates, the disease killed from 30% to 60% of Europe’s population]. It was one of the most devastating pandemics in history, killing millions. But it was also a catalyst for change. It brought about the end of feudalism and paved the way for the Renaissance. The suffering caused by the Black Death inspired people to question the world around them, and it led to some of the most significant advances in science and the arts.