The most powerful demons. Eight passions

Question number 1783

How to deal with the sin of discouragement?

Dmitriy , St. Petersburg, Russia
27/01/2005

Hello. Oleg!
Please tell me how to deal with the sin of despondency (self-pity)?
Thank you in advance.

Father Oleg Molenko's answer:

Despondency is a heavy and extremely painful passion. Behind her is a giant demon, one of the three giant demons: despondency, oblivion and ignorance, which, first of all, prevent a person from truly coming to God. That is why one must fight these demons and defeat them.

First, the demon of oblivion is overcome. It is overcome by the unceasing memory of God, which is produced by the unceasing Jesus Prayer and the thought of God. As oblivion is overcome, the ascetic of repentance overcomes ignorance: about God, about the path of salvation, but above all about himself and his true state. From true to and Denying himself in the light of grace, a person throws off the charm of self-conceit, goodness, godliness, salvation, which has enveloped him until then, and begins to zealously care for his salvation and eternal fate. By the action of grace, a terrible picture was revealed to him about himself, about his attitude to God - that he is His enemy, an abomination to Him, perished and very far from Him. Through such self-knowledge, the general decline of human nature is revealed to man, which he begins to see in all people. From this in and Denia, he ceases to condemn people, and begins to love them piously and unhypocritically with pity, sympathy, compassion, feasible prayer and help, incl. and by wise conviction for the salvation of them or others.

From such a salutary in and Denials and feelings, a person comes to grief and weeping for himself and other people, first of all for those who are close and known to him. From this contrition, true humility and humble philosophizing about oneself are born in the soul, which pours out into the first blissful state of spiritual poverty. This state also brings a person out of despondency, otherwise called evil corruption. From the side of the demon and its impact on the soul, this passion is called despondency... From the side of a person who succumbed to this passion, it is called wicked corruption... A person who has succumbed to the action of despondency becomes cold to all saving deeds and spiritual actions. He falls into spiritual apathy, indifference and becomes immobile and lazy for any good deed. Self-pity, self-justification, resentment against everyone and everything for their torment, blaming others, painful pride, pain from temporarily defeated vanity and self-conceit, demanding compensation - all this overwhelms a person who has succumbed to despondency. Thoughts about the uselessness of faith, the feat of repentance, the struggle with passions, or the impossibility of living so selflessly and intensely in Christ and succeeding - overwhelm the despondent and he approaches despair.

From despondency, one step to despair, and from despair, one step to irreparable eternal destruction. He leaves prayer as helpless, leaves the reading of Scripture as useless, leaves the reading of the holy fathers and their lives as denouncing him and supposedly unrealizable on him or unattainable, and therefore futile. Everything spiritual and salutary becomes for him not a joy, but a burden. He begins to be burdened and annoyed by the presence of others, the closest and beloved people before, as well as other necessary everyday things, environment and circumstances. A person tries to drown out despondency with entertainment, sinful acts, amusements, but comes only in a worse state. That is why the passion of despondency, as killing the soul and threatening life, is generally rightly called a mortal sin. Already at the first signs of its manifestation, one must immediately resist it and resist in every possible way, calling on God and His saints for help.

Despite the common manifestation of the passion of despondency, it has different reasons for attacking the human soul. There is despondency from an arbitrarily sinful life when everything is boring. In Russia, this state was called blues or Russian blues. There is despondency from a demonic swoop, due to their envy or other motives. There is despondency from lofty asceticism in solitude, but sometimes it is as an allowance for arrogance, ascetic pride, or an unreasonable undertaking of deeds beyond strength. For those who live in obedience, there is despondency for self-discipline or humiliation (even in thought) of their elder. There is despondency among the ascetics of repentance from the teaching and cleansing abandonment of God.

Such a painful hellish state must survive. It is tolerated by God according to his strength and measured for the sake of great spiritual benefit. In other cases, when we ourselves are to blame for the attack on us by the demon of despondency, we must oppose him with the available means. Such means are: encouraging oneself by singing strengthening and encouraging church prayers and chants; let's set ourselves up even for death for the sake of God and even for one of His commandments; repentance for sins that led to despondency; repetition of suitable sayings from the Psalter, Scripture or the holy fathers that strengthen the soul.

For example, it is good, sitting with your eyes closed, quietly aloud, with attention to the words of a prayer or a saying of Scripture, to repeat this prayer or saying several dozen times until the soul enters the field of truth through this repetition. Truth will free the soul from the oppression of active passion or sorrow.

For example, you can repeat the words of the Lord from the Gospel of John:
John 14.1 : "Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, and believe in Me" .

You can also repeat the words from the Psalter:
Ps. 41 :" 6 Why are you discouraged, my soul, and why are you embarrassed? Trust in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God.
7 from the land of Jordan, from Hermon, from Mount Zoar.
8 The abyss calls the abyss with the voice of your waterfalls; all Your waters and Your waves have passed over me.
9 During the day the Lord will show His mercy, and at night I have a song to Him, a prayer to the God of my life..
10 I will say to God, my intercessor: why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the insults of the enemy?
11 As if striking my bones, my enemies swear at me, when they say to me every day: "Where is your God?"
12 Why are you discouraged, my soul, and why are you embarrassed? Trust in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God " .

You can repeat any of the phrases I have underlined. You can search for yourself and find yourself something similar to these sayings, which most affects this particular state.

One should also oppose despondency with self-denial, self-reproach (according to the models of the holy fathers or composed by ourselves), the memory of death, the memory of the rewards of the righteous and other thoughts and words that comfort the soul.
Sometimes you can drink a little dry wine, for wine makes the soul of a person happy.
Sometimes walk in nature, contemplating God's creation. Sometimes you can listen to good music, for St. David also drove away the demon of despondency from King Saul by playing musical instrument... You can make room for appropriate humor and a harmless joke. So the Monk Seraphim sometimes joked in the kliros, thus making the brethren happy and averting the spirit of despondency from them. Sometimes you just have to sleep.

In principle, the memory of God conquers despondency most of all:
Psalm 41, 7: " My soul is discouraged in me; therefore I remember you ". That is why most of all we must take care of implanting in ourselves the memory of God by doing the Jesus Prayer!

The final victory over the spirit of despondency is a great success in the spiritual life in our time. It takes a person to a new level of spiritual life - living in the spiritual world, when the grace of God is scooped up with spoons. At this level, there can only be a slight sadness about the previous mourned and forgiven sins, grief about the still manifested weaknesses, grief about the death and delusion of other people, grief about the state of the modern world, about the universal mass retreat. There is also a place for the denunciation of apostates who rise up against God, against His Church, for prayer in His name, against the vessels of the Holy Spirit and on the path of salvation - the path of patristic repentance. But all this does not violate the inner peace, does not blind, does not darken the soul, but keeps it in humility and striving for God and pleasing God. The cheerful soul thrives in the knowledge of God and in the acquisition of wisdom and grace.

Exists different kinds demons - the classification was compiled at different times by different authors from among monks, occultists and philosophers. Find out what demons exist, how they differ from each other, and how they relate to angelic ranks.

In the article:

Types of demons - ranks in demonology

In modern demonology, the types of demons are not fully disclosed topic. But it is known that every representative of evil spirits has a strictly regulated range of duties, beyond which he rarely acts. At different times, medieval, modern, classical demonology and the leading authors studying this science have created various ways of classifying the forces of hell.

All demons were once angels. Some authors, for example, I. Vier and R. Burton believe that if there is an angelic hierarchy, then the demonic one was created in its image and likeness. The fallen angels used the usual way of building a hierarchy without creating anything new. There are, and the same number of demonic ranks.

Nine Demon Ranks

The first rank is pseudo-gods, demons posing as gods. These are the pagan deities, as well as all others, with the exception of the one Lord. He commands them.

The second rank is demons of lies. Their task is to deceive people with the help of prophecies and predictions. They patronize fortunetellers, psychics, soothsayers. Among these representatives of the demonic hierarchy, Python is the ruler.

The third rank - fighters against God's laws and commandments. They have invented all evil deeds, vicious occupations and arts. The prince of the demons of lawlessness is.

The fourth rank is avengers and punishers. They inspire thoughts of revenge and atrocities in relation to other people who supposedly deserve it. ...

The fifth rank is deceiving demons who seduce people with pseudo-miracles. They are able to introduce themselves as anyone - both an ordinary person who has a gift, and a messenger of God. Lord of deceivers -.

The sixth rank rules over the air element, with the help of which its representatives bring diseases and epidemics to people, as well as natural disasters. The leader of the sixth rank is Merezin.

The seventh rank is the furies who incite wars and strife. Their influence can be seen on a large scale when it comes to military conflicts or large urban clashes. Furies also affect people individually, forcing them to conflict. ...

The eighth rank is accusers and spies. They watch people, noticing their slightest sins and sinful thoughts. At the same time, these representatives of evil spirits never miss a chance to do dirty tricks. Usually, their influence is manifested in false accusations, slander, quarrels with colleagues and loved ones due to misunderstandings. The accusers give all the "compromising evidence" to their master.

The ninth order - tempters who push a person into sin. His greatest delight is the transformation of the righteous into an inveterate sinner. Most often, it is these demons that appear to people, it is easier to call them, but keep in mind that not you, but evil spirits, will benefit from your communication. Mammon leads her.

There is another classification of demons tied to. Before the fall, all the demons took their places in it. According to medieval records that were obtained during expelling the demon Balberith from a girl named Madeleine, the demons, after being cast down into hell, took their places in the new, dark hierarchy in accordance with the places that they occupied in heaven. In other words, the fallen cherubim among the demons are in the same position as the cherubim in heaven.

Beelzebub

Demon Hierarchy

First level

The first level of the demonic hierarchy corresponds to the angelic, consisting of seraphim, cherubim and thrones. Above them - only:

• Seraphim Beelzebub comes second after Lucifer as. He inclines people to pride. Seraphim Leviathan pushes people away from the Christian faith, teaches heresies and inclines them to sins that are contrary to Christian morality. Seraphim Asmodeus seduces with luxury and material goods.
• Cherubim Balberit, who communicated with the exorcist, according to legend, pushes people to commit suicide. He also promotes quarrels and squabbles, incites scandals and teaches backbiting.
• The throne of Astaroth is in charge of laziness, despondency and idleness. The Throne of Verenus makes people intolerant of each other, teaches them selfishness. The throne of Gressin is responsible for the tendency to sloppiness, in charge of filth in its physical sense. The throne of Sonnelon is always ready to inflame hatred of the enemy and force him to take revenge.

Second level

The second level of the hierarchy of demons corresponds to the rank of domination, power and authority in the angelic hierarchy:

• Elle's dominance incites the breaking of the vow of poverty. The domination of Rosier is a demon of lust and fornication.
• The Prince of Sil Verrier is able to force one to break the vow of obedience.
• Carro's power instills cruelty in the hearts of people and fights compassion and mercy. The power of Carnivan manages shamelessness and lack of guilt for committed sins, inability to repent and receive God's forgiveness.

Third level

The third level is the former beginnings, archangels and angels:

• The beginning of Belial inclines towards arrogance. It was he who created fashion and the concept of beauty, because differences in appearance are closely related to a high opinion of oneself. Belial teaches chatting and distraction during worship. Most of all, it affects women and children.
• Archangel Olivius is responsible for the hatred of poverty. People who are under his influence hate those who earn less than they do. Olivius teaches not to give alms and treats the poor and the needy with all cruelty.

Classification of demons by their habitat

The types of demons according to their habitat are highlighted monk Michael Psell who lived about a thousand years ago. He argued that not all demons live in hell. According to this author of historical, religious and philosophical works, demons have specific habitats and are rarely chosen from them. The original source has not survived to this day, but it has been repeatedly quoted by other authors, for example, Henry Haliwell.

Fire demons

According to this theory, fire demons live in the higher layers of the air, the lunar ether, or even above the moon. They descend neither into the human world, nor into hell. According to Psellus, they will appear only on the Day of Judgment.

Air demons

Air demons live in the air of the human world. It is they who are the very unclean force that every person should beware of. These demons are able to cause natural disasters, become visible and influence the lives of people. From time to time they go down to hell on their own business. Air evil spirits are mentioned in the Goetia.

Earth demons

Earthly demons, like air demons, live among people. They can hide in rocks, forests and mountains. This type of evil spirits loves to harm people, but not all of them are evil. Some of the demons of the earth secretly live among mortals, posing as ordinary people.

Water demons

Water demons live in water sources. They harm seafarers and underwater animals. The water scum is aggressive, never speaks the truth and is rather restless. Most often, she appears in the guise of women.

Underground demons

Underground demons live in caves and mountain crevices. They harm miners and other professions who work underground. The destruction of the foundations of houses and earthquakes are also attributed to the underground evil spirits.

Light-hating demons, heliophobes or lucifugi live in hell and never go beyond it. According to Psellus, they are incomprehensible and unattainable for a mortal. When meeting a person, the lucifuge will surely kill him, strangling or poisoning him with his breath. Light-haters are afraid only of light, it is impossible to hold, summon or defend against them by any witchcraft or magical seal. They shy away from people and never answer various challenges.

According to Psellus, only air, earth, water and underground demon can be summoned. This can be done in a place corresponding to its essence. For example, it is better to communicate with water evil spirits on the shore of a reservoir, with an earthly one - in a forest, with an underground one - in a cave. To call an air demon, this condition is not needed, the air is already around you.

Types of demons in demonology - separation by occupation

The duties of a demonic entity reveal its power. The stronger the demon, the more influence it has on a person in particular and the world in general. The classification of demons by the nature of their occupation and the level of power was first introduced Alphonse de Spina in the 15th century. She is often criticized, since this source does not mention many of the duties of evil spirits, and most of the known demons do not fit into the framework of this classification.

The parks are Roman goddesses of fate, almost coinciding with the Greek Moiraes. (Painting "Three Moiraes", Marco Bijo, 1525)

The goddesses weaving human destinies in Roman mythology were called parks. Such characters are found in most of the pagan pantheons of the world. De Spina ranked them among the demons, in the power of which are human destinies.

Pure demons are powerful creatures from hell who only attack saints. Deceiving demons appear only to humans, usually in human form. Their goal is to deceive, to lead a righteous person into sin, to get his soul. There are also sleep demons, or nightmare demons, who send terrible dreams and feed on the energy of the sleeper.

Two types of representatives of the hellish army are assigned to witches and sorcerers. According to de Spina, each witch has an assistant, who is almost always in the guise of a small animal. A separate type of demons inspires them with false memories of the Sabbath - the source calls the Sabbath taking place in the real world fiction.

Almost everyone knows who the incubi and succubi are. These are demonic entities that seduce a person and feed on his energy. De Spina added to these two types one more - demons who are interested in the male seed. According to Christian beliefs, demons and demons are born from it.

Demonolotary Stephanie Connolly

Already in our time, there was another attempt to distinguish the types of demons by the nature of their occupation and area of ​​responsibility. Classification modern demonologist and priestess of demonolatria Stephanie Connolly closer to the traditional ideas about the occupation of evil spirits of different ranks and levels of influence. It is also more convenient for practitioners who are engaged in the challenge of representatives of the hellish forces and work with them.

Each demon has its own area of ​​responsibility, and each of the demons has in its subordination lower demons, demons, devils and other representatives of the hellish army. Of course, it is unlikely that it will be possible to summon a powerful demon, but he can send someone of lower rank to help the magician.

Love, passion and sex are the responsibility of Asmodeus and Astaroth. You can turn to them to create a love spell or sexual attachment, as well as gain attraction and find a lover.

Hatred, vengeance, anger and war are ruled by Andras, Abaddon, and Agaliarept. They turn to these demons and their servants in order to bring damage, take revenge with the help of magic on the enemy, and also find help in confronting a strong rival.

Demons can both take life and bestow it. Verrin, Verrier and Belial are responsible for health and healing. You can ask them for help in the fight against a serious illness if you are doing black magic for healing.

Demons of Death - Eurenomus, Waalberith and Babael. They are turned to in order to avoid death or kill the enemy with the help of magic. These same demons patronize necromancy.

Natural forces and elements are ruled by Lucifer, Leviathan and Dagon. They can be asked for help to facilitate contact with natural sources of energy, as well as to strengthen the power of the rite, in which the elements play an important role.

Wealth, luck and all the material components of a person's life are influenced by Belphegor, Beelzebub and Mammon. You can ask them for good luck in any business, enrichment - and without any restrictions on ways of earning, as well as ruining the enemy.

The demons Python, Ronwe and Delepitor give secret knowledge to sorcerers and magicians. Sorcerers who work exclusively with the forces of darkness turn to them for advice. This path is closed for white magicians.

Classification of demons in the demonology of Cornellius Agrippa - planetary correspondences

In demonology, the classification of demons can be tied to the planets. Many ancient sources say about some spirits of the planets. For example, these are described in some detail in "Key of Solomon"... It is difficult to say exactly who is described in this source - spirits or demons, because Christian demonology attributed all mythological characters in general to representatives of evil spirits, except for those who are directly related to God.

Occult Philosophy. Book 4

The planetary classification of the demons of hell was compiled Cornelius Agrippa... It is described in detail in the fourth volume of "Occult Philosophy" by this author. Each of these creatures corresponds to a certain appearance, demeanor, as well as a number of questions with which they can be addressed. The latter correspond to the meaning of the planets in the generally accepted sense, for example, the demons of Venus can help with a love spell or gaining attraction.

So, there are demons or spirits of Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Sun, Venus, Mercury and the Moon. They all come in different guises, and their appearance is accompanied by physical phenomena around the magic circle - for example, the moon demons cause rain, and the Mercurians plunge everyone present into horror. To communicate with them, all correspondences must be strictly observed. Each planet corresponds to a certain time of day, metal, color, stone and other important components of summoning demons.

Christian demonology - classification according to sins

Christian demonology starts from the connection between a person's ability to sin and demons, which are directly related to the transformation of the righteous into sinners. First tied demons and human vices demonologist P. Binsfeld in the 16th century in this way:

Lucifer is pride;
Mammon is greed;
Asmodeus - lust;
Satan is anger;
Beelzebub - gluttony;
Leviathan - envy;
Belphegor is lazy.

In the 19th century occultist from London F. Barrett changed the classification in one of his books. Mammon became the patron saint of seduction and temptation, not greed and greed. However, material wealth is one of the temptations for a person. Asmodeus, according to Barrett, commands not lust, but revenge and anger. Satan is a famous deceiver who has nothing to do with anger and vindictiveness. Beelzebub, in this source, is called the lord of false gods, who are in fact demons. Gluttony Barrett "passed" on to Mammon, as the lord of temptation.

Python is the prince of the spirits of lies;
Belial is a repository of vice;
Merihim is the leader of the spirits that cause infectious diseases;
Abaddon is a demon of wars;
Astaroth is a demon of accusers and inquisitors;
Azazel is the scapegoat.

Russian demonology and its features

Russian demonology was born even before the arrival Orthodox faith to the lands of the ancient Slavs. Our ancestors have always believed in evil spirits. changed somewhat under the influence of the Christian. But information about the evil spirits of the Slavs was preserved well, since Christianity only added new characters, without affecting in any way the existing ones.

And also other types of "walking dead" - some of the most striking characters in Russian demonology. During the time of the Cossacks in Russia and Ukraine, they believed in people who have demonic abilities - sisters and double-minded people. During sleep, according to ancient legends, they gain almost complete control over the situation.

Badzula is a demon that is capable of making any person a drunkard and a vagabond. In the guise of a woman in rags, he appears near settlements closer to winter. If you let Badzulu stay for the night, the family will soon become impoverished and disintegrate. Therefore, travelers in winter were treated rather wary - in the cold our ancestors rarely moved far from their homes.

Forest, marsh, field and river vermin are invariable characters of Russian folklore. A lot of information about them has been preserved in omens and folk tales. Devils, contrary to popular belief, from time immemorial lived near people, according to the beliefs of the Slavs. There are many evil spirits - Sinister, Potvora, Pesigolovets and many others.

The Slavs tried to appease the evil spirits so that they would not harm. Some of them are completely kind to people, for example, these are brownies, with whom it is customary to be friends to this day.

Autumn undeniably comes into its own. Drizzling light rain outside the window, icy lifeless batteries and early darkness thoroughly test the nerves for strength. The trees on the city alley pay off their debts to the land without a murmur, throwing the gold and purple that gravitate them into the mud at the first breath of the breeze. The birds, following the powerful instinct inherent in them, obediently gather in flocks, preparing to fly to warm lands. And what about the crown of nature? Yes, here he is - sitting, frowning, looking longingly at the boiling kettle. A spoonful of honey and a drop of Cahors added to a cup refresh his earthy complexion somewhat, but this is not for long. After getting drunk, the exiled Adam avert his devastated gaze to the corner, demonstrating to those around him complete apathy. The number of cigarettes in a pack sticking out of his pocket is rapidly decreasing, and the heap of cigarette butts in an impromptu ashtray-beer can is growing noticeably. "Do not touch Ilyuha," warn the experienced employees of his department, "he is depressed again." And the most experienced say: "Seasonal".

Depression, aptly dubbed "mental rhinitis" by American experts, is spreading around the world no less actively than a physical cold in the cold season. Currently, according to the American Psychiatric Association, about 15 million people are affected by this disease in the United States alone every year. Other studies estimate the prevalence of depressive disorders is much higher - more than 26% among women and 12% among men. According to the results scientific research, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, the annual costs associated with the incidence of depression in Americans in 1990. amounted to 43.7 billion dollars. This amount includes the cost of 290 million lost work days, psychotherapy and disability. These data show that clinical depression is the most incapacitating of all chronic diseases. Despite the prevalence and destructiveness of this disease, the exact mechanism or mechanisms of the onset of depression have not yet been discovered. For many years, scientists have believed that depression is associated with a lack of neurotransmitters - either norepinephrine or serotonin - at key central synapses. nervous system... However, the key biochemical cause of depression remains unknown.

In contrast to the biochemical version of the onset of depression, the founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud believed that depression is unexpressed and unconscious rage, a reaction to a state of helplessness or dependence on others, or to the loss of a beloved (oops). The earliest anger in a child may have been caused by the mother's feeling of "abandonment" when she has another child. Since the child could not afford to be angry with his mother and go to opposition, Freud believed, he turned his anger against himself. Thus, unexpressed anger was contained or directed inward. Freudian depression is an inward-looking anger. Every time an individual feels lonely, he is overcome by depression.

In some cases, many drugs cause depression. These include, in particular, hormonal contraceptives and anabolic steroids. One researcher described two similar cases: women who have never suffered from mental illness, one to two months after the introduction of norplant (a long-acting contraceptive that is implanted under the skin) developed deep depression.

Stopping stimulant drugs such as cocaine and amphetamine can also cause symptoms of depression, such as sadness, insomnia, and lethargy.

Despite the fact that depression is called a disease of the 20th and now the 21st century, this ailment is by no means new. Even Hippocrates described a similar mental state called "melancholy", seeing its cause in the filling of the brain with "black bile". In the Scriptures, bouts of depression are repeatedly described on the pages of the Old Testament: for example, King Saul suffered from them, and David's playing on the harp brought relief to him. Many passages from the Book of Psalms indicate that the prophet and psalmist David also experienced the attacks of severe oppressive despondency. Sad is the verse of King Solomon-Ecclesiastes, which tells about the vanity of vanities. Is the modern information society, with its style and pace of life, to be blamed for the spread of depression, if a resident of ancient Judea or antique greece was familiar with depressive symptoms no worse than our contemporary? Perhaps the cause of the disease lies in the human soul that has undergone the fall, which has changed so little over the past several thousand years?

None of the currently available scientific papers in psychiatry or psychology, depression has not received such a precise and exhaustive description as in the works of the holy fathers, where, long before the formation and development of the secular sciences of mental disorders, these states were defined as sinful passions of despondency and sadness. The gravest of the spirits of malice is called the spirit of despondency by St. John Climacus.

Perhaps, a character resembling Ilyukha from our saying will be found in the circle of friends of each of us, and someone, perhaps, recognizes in this hero and himself at certain moments of life. How to help a long-suffering melancholic? His gloomy mood is instantly picked up by popular culture. The ethics of decadence, which has become a good form in some circles, convinces people that it is indecent and wrong to be happy and joyful in our dying world. Better to fade beautifully, indulging in spectacular self-destruction.

Let's talk about the difference between male and female depression options. In women, depressive states are more often associated with dissatisfaction with their appearance (dysmorphophobia), a desire to lose weight, correct some facial flaws, figure. The impetus for the development of depression can be a long traumatic situation in family life (the husband drinks, beats his wife) or the inability to start a family, failures at work, material problems, that is, very real everyday reasons. Depression in women can be associated with hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy, after childbirth, with the onset of menopause. With men, everything is much more complicated. With greater ease attacking Eve, who sometimes does not recognize the enemy attack, seeing the reason for the sudden attack of a bad mood in " critical days"or an unsuccessful diet, for Adam the enemy of the human race prepared heavier artillery.

Depression in men often occurs for no apparent reason. For example, our Ilya is a highly paid employee of a successful company. He is young, handsome, not deprived of the attention of the fair sex. He has loving parents who are sincerely proud of their son and do not care for him. There are also friends who will always help in difficult times, listen, and encourage. But, nevertheless, from time to time he "finds" Ilya. During such periods, the dark hours of solitude give way to desperate, valiant antics, often drunk. Then our hero gets involved in a criminal showdown, clearly underestimating his own strength. After that, finding himself in a hospital bed, he immediately, in stationary conditions, falls in love and strikes up a romance. After being discharged from the hospital, he completely forgets the subject of his former passion and goes to the company with a friend, an extreme, to jump with a parachute. Having broken a couple more unbroken ribs, he does not calm down, but buys a used car (apparently, it’s a pity to break a new one, knowing its characteristics), sits behind the wheel in a not very sober state, grabs a drunk girlfriend squealing with delight and drives him along the night highway to unknown. "Still alive?" - it is not surprising that Ilya's acquaintances have long begun to take an interest in his fate from this very question.

Yes, as can be seen from a vivid example, depression in men is often associated with alcoholism and can hide behind its mask, presenting the cause for the effect. Representatives of the stronger sex are less likely than women to admit to themselves that they need the help of a specialist. If women in a period of depression are characterized by tearfulness, a tendency to complain, a desire to find support in the person of a priest, doctor, relatives, friends, then men prefer to suffer in silence, out of fear of demonstrating their weakness to someone. For example, Ilya's extreme antics are twofold - on the one hand, the desire to escape from his illness with the help of thrill, on the other hand, to prove to everyone around that he is not a tearful melancholic, but "Cool Walker". But both of these paths lead to a dead end. We know from church tradition that any illness is sent to us as a vital cross, as a spiritual exercise. Depression cannot be avoided. It is necessary to fight with it, like with any other passion, trusting in the help of God.

It happens that depression is mistakenly called a state of acute grief, for example, with the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, or a catastrophe. The main difference between depression and healthy sadness is the lack of hope. A healthy person says to himself: "Now I feel bad, but this is only now. Over time, everything will change." After a certain period of time, he no longer remembers the traumatic event down to the smallest detail - the salutary property of human memory to forget what hurts is triggered. This is not the case with true depression. "I feel bad and it will always be like this. There is no hope. There is no way out" - this is the demonic whispering that patients with depression take for their thoughts. It is not hard to guess that the purpose of these suggestions is to lead a person to the terrible and irreversible sin of suicide. Moreover, this terrible act does not have to be carried out through the notorious rope and soap, or a jump from the windowsill of the thirteenth floor. Constant torture of oneself with gloomy thoughts, if not looking for a way out, can lead to a gradual weakening and extinction of the body. Many of the most unexpected diseases will not keep themselves waiting long, manifesting themselves on the body, exhausted by the suffering soul. The victim of depression and addictions up to the most terrible variants of drug addiction do not escape. "She died of melancholy" - isn't it a familiar phrase for us, familiar from romance novels. Consider its true meaning.

Fortunately, depression is curable. This is evidenced by the data of the psychiatric literature. But even these optimistic data do not speak of the mercy that is revealed to the suffering soul by the Physician of souls and bodies, if the patient shows firm faith and immutable courage in the fight against the disease. Doctors and medicines are only helpers through whom healing can be given. Given when you are ready to accept it.

Nevertheless, if you notice characteristic symptoms of depression in yourself or someone close to you, you should not neglect a medical examination. It is worth paying attention to the following signs:

1. Depressed state of mind most of the day, almost daily, sometimes irritable towards children or adolescents.

2. Noticeably decreased interest in everything - apathy, or general dissatisfaction, almost daily decreased activity for most of the day.

3. Significant loss or, conversely, weight gain without changing the diet.

4. Almost chronic insomnia or pathological drowsiness.

5. Psychomotor agitation or psychomotor inhibition is an abnormal acceleration or deceleration of psychomotor movements or mental processes observed by other people almost daily.

6. Almost chronic fatigue or loss of energy.

7. An often felt state of worthlessness, excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt.

8. Almost constant decreased ability to think, inability to concentrate and indecision.

9. Obsessive thoughts about death, or thoughts of suicide without a special plan, or an attempt to commit suicide, or a special plan for its implementation.

If you have five or more of the listed signs for a period of at least two weeks, including the first and second symptoms, this should be a reason to see a doctor. It is unlikely that those patients who completely neglect medical care and medicines are right. Perhaps they think that they have completely become like the desert fathers, hoping for healing by their own prayers?

What if the demon of despondency has chosen you as its target? First, it is unnecessary to remind Orthodox Christian that you should pay attention to your spiritual life, put it in order under the guidance of your spiritual father. Secondly, do not believe your depression, do not become obedient to it. Remember that behind this state there is a vile demon hoping to destroy you and bring you down to the bottom of hell. Respond to his attacks with the appropriate prayers found in any prayer book. Rationalize, evaluate soberly all the thoughts that come to your mind. Am I stupid, bad, good for nothing? No, I am a wonderful creation of God. All the evil in me comes from my sins, but I will go to confession, repent and will correct myself. Have you been kicked out of work? It means that it was not useful for me to work there. I will be patient, I will pray, and a new job will be found. The groom left, found another? Look at him - he drinks, fights, he quit the institute, it is not clear what he is doing. And at the same time, look at yourself - don't you need to change something in yourself, even if such a handsome man neglected you. There is dust in every corner of the house. You will correct yourself - God will give another groom, good, hard-working. Remember - there is a way out. By prayer, it will surely open.

During depression, do not neglect communication with people. Even if you sincerely want to run into the desert, stop and force yourself to return to society by force. After all, in public, all our sins and passions become very clearly visible, and it is much easier to fight them. Although the demon of despondency will suggest the opposite. I am very familiar with this state from my own periods of despondency and from the experience of communicating with the above-described Ilya. During such periods, it is very easy to get along with random fellow travelers, for example, on the train, especially if they offer to drink together. Fleeting communication, ease, no commitment! But for old friends who can bring you real benefit, knowing your mental disposition thoroughly, it is very difficult to appear. I want to run away from them, burning with false shame. For example, in such a state, Ilya always runs away from friends with whom he previously confessed to a common confessor, he is afraid that they will forcefully draw him, gloomy and drunk, who has not slept through, to a strict archpriest for confession. I, overworked in the field of Russian defectology, shy away in the narrow space of the clinical corridor from an experienced colleague who can remarkably return shaken brains to their place. During a depression, the most unexpected, fantastic ideas come to mind, which must be carefully monitored and destroyed as absurd. For example, it seems to Ilya that a completely harmless, quiet girl from his work is building intrigues in order to marry him. For this reason, he no longer greets her, and if he sees in the distance, then he immediately takes off. Once you accept such a thought, and it will acquire hundreds of facts and proofs allegedly confirming its truth: they want to survive from work, and deceive, and pay the least, and friends are not friends, but so ... Remember the words of the apostle: " Don't believe every spirit. " The demons of despondency are aces of disguise. Their main task is to make you think that the reason for your heavy mood lies in life circumstances, relationships with others, autumn, darkness, cold, full moon, only in their sly whispering.

And if it becomes completely unbearable, invite other people suffering from depression to visit, prepare delicious antidepressant dishes (salty cheeses, red wine, meat with spices and figs are recommended on the table) and sing together a sad Russian folk song about unhappy love. Let her give an outlet to negative emotions - it was for such cases that the people composed these songs. You have hope. Resist depression, and it will run away from you, along with its crafty master.

Dark forces are represented by different demons, and each entity has its own functions, so one is responsible for fear, and the other for drunkenness. To protect themselves from them, people from time immemorial have used different amulets. There is a list of the main "villains" who have distinguished themselves in history.

What is demonology?

The paranormal science that studies demons is called demonology. With its help, you can not only find out the history of the existence of one or another representative of the dark forces, but also understand how you can get in touch with them using a ritual and control. Christian demonology is not a fairy tale and its study must be approached as responsibly as possible. It is not recommended to contact with dark forces for people who have mental problems.

Who are demons?

There are different definitions of demons, for example, they are considered to be spirits-intermediaries between the earth and the other world. The Slavs also call them demons, and Christian demonology - the fallen angels, who are the barrier between people and God. Many will be surprised by the fact that they can be either good (zudemon) or bad (cacodemon). The word "demon" is "full of wisdom." In Jewish demonology, dark forces are divided into specific classes. The adherents summon demons to support them and help them fulfill their wish.

Demonology is all about demons

Even in ancient times, people were not too lazy and created a kind of classification. Christian specialists in distribution were guided by the existing hierarchy in hell, which made it possible to further emphasize their responsibilities. The most important fallen demon is Satan, who is the head of the demonic army. It is worth saying that a demonologist - an occultist who knows everything about demons and evil spirits is engaged in the study of dark forces.

Demon of Gluttony

Excessiveness and greed in food, which destroys a person, is usually called gluttony. The demon Behemoth is responsible for this vice.

1. There are references to him in the Bible, where God, together with Leviathan, demonstrates him to the righteous Job in order to prove his power.
2. The translation of the name of this demon means "animals", which directly indicates the size of this demon.
3. In Jewish legends, Behemoth is called the king of beasts.
4. Demonology believes that this demon can take the form of any large animal.
5. The hippopotamus considers it his duty to evoke animal tendencies in a person, prompting the desire to blaspheme and swear.
6. They depict him with an elephant's head and a huge belly. He is also presented with an additional face on his chest. This is explained by the legend that the Behemoth descended from Indian creatures.

Demon Behemoth

Demon of drunkenness

The demonic essence of the lower plan, which joins a person when his own desires (vices) begin to destroy the energy, is a larva. After some time, it gets stronger, and the person weakens, and then she can easily control him.

1. Many believe that larva is a demon of drunkenness, but she can control other addictions of people, exacerbating the situation.
2. Having attached itself to a person, the essence begins to push the person towards vicious addiction. At the same time, he will feel euphoria from alcohol and other vices.
3. Over time, larva penetrates the physical body of its victim, which causes many diseases.
4. There are special rituals that allow you to expel the essence, but without a person's great desire to cope with it.

Demon Larva

Demon of fear

One of the most powerful demons, who personifies the power of destruction and horror, is Abaddon. Some modern Jewish sources consider him an angel, and his demonic characteristics are attributed only because of his rigid essence.

1. The name of this demon is translated from the Hebrew language as perdition.
2. Most scientists claim that Abaddon is a demon who originally performed the functions of a destroyer while in Divine service. The love of murder was the reason for his expulsion from heaven to Hell, where he is the main military leader.
3. The Revelation of John describes how Abaddon leads a horde of locusts against humanity, by which they mean special demons.

Demon Abbadon

Demon of envy

One of the deadly vices of humanity is ruled by the monster Leviathan. Mentions about him can be found in Old Testament and other religious sources. The description of demons by different demonologists is different, and the patron of envy is considered a demon, a hellish prince and even the supreme deity.

1. Leviathan is a sea beast that has tremendous strength and size.
2. The book of Job details God's plan to create this creature.
3. They represent him as a huge beast, which has two jaws, is covered with scales and breathes fire, thanks to which it evaporates the seas.
4. Scientists believe that in the Middle Ages it was often associated with large sea animals, for example, a whale or a sperm whale.

Demon Leviathan

Demon of Lies

The most important among demons is Satan, who controls all vices of a person, forcing him to deceive, commit sinful acts and anger the Lord. It is believed that he was originally the main helper of God, and then, for his sinful deeds, God threw him into Hell.

1. The demon Satan is traditionally represented by a black man of enormous stature. Some sources describe his ability to shape-shift and his favorite form is the serpent, which made Eve sin.
2. Christians believe that Satan is the head of Hell, who accepts sinners by inventing punishments for them.
3. In Christian books, many negative events are attributed to him, for example, because of him the first people sinned, he persuaded Cain to kill his brother, and he also made attempts to spoil the ark by launching a mouse into it, which gnawed the bottom of the ship. He also created all diseases.
4. In demonology, suicide is also considered a devilish obsession.

Demon Satan

Demon of greed

V modern world more and more often, wealth and luxury compel a person to commit sinful acts. It is believed that the demon of Mamon patronizes this. In fact, ideas about him are not always correct.

1. If a person considers financial well-being to be the main thing in his life, then they say that he is possessed by the spirit of Mamon. At the same time, some ministers assure that the essence can help to cope with poverty.
2. According to legend, the Devil was the one who slipped the demon to people as a god of material happiness, so you can find references that the ancestors sacrificed their children to him so that he would give them wealth.

Demon Mamon

Demon of fornication

In the hellish hierarchy, one of the first positions is occupied by the demon Asmodeus. It is believed that he is one of the four demons closest to Lucifer.

1. The demon Asmodeus has three faces: bull, human and donkey. He has goose-membranes on his feet, and he moves on a dragon.
2. Its main purpose is to destroy families, for which it pushes men and women to commit adultery.
3. He is considered the patron saint of warriors, since he controls the elements of destruction.
4. Asmodeus is credited with the power over gambling, so he is the manager of the gambling establishments of Hell.
5. The demon world is filled with various conflicting statements, for example, there is a version that Asmodeus was never a fallen angel and he is a descendant of the relationship between Adam and Lilith.

Demon Asmodeus

Despair Demon

One of the most frequently mentioned lords of the Underworld is the demon Astaroth. Kabbalah pays special attention to him, where he is included in the list of ten archdevils.

1. The demon Astaroth has tremendous powers, so the secret secrets of all people on earth are revealed to him. His knowledge is immeasurable, for example, he knows the true reasons why each of the fallen angels betrayed God. This is directly reflected in his images, where the demon is presented with a book in his hands.
2. He is considered one of the most loyal demons. They represent him as the patron saint of people who are looking for truth.
3. In some sources Astaroth is described as a member of the Knightly Order of the Fly.
4. The expulsion of Astaroth was a forced measure and a protest to social injustice.
5. The main enemy on the part of the demon's good forces is Saint Bartholomew.
6. There are several versions regarding the description of it appearance... There is an option that he moves on a dragon and his appearance is ugly. The demon's breath has an incredible stench. Another demonologist believes that Astaroth was a beautiful young man who had angel wings on his back.
7. To protect yourself from the demon, you must use a special magic ring, which should be kept near your face.

Demon Astaroth

Demon of despondency

Many people are familiar with the state of depression and apathy, which can lead to serious problems. The powerful demon Belphegor controls despondency. They also call him Baal Fegor, Velfegor and Waalfegor.

Each mythology has its own list of the most powerful creations, both representing the forces of light and the forces of darkness.

In some religions they are more structured, in others less. In Christianity, which has had a considerable influence on occult views on, there are several conflicting views on demons, their essence, image, power and hierarchy.

But, nevertheless, it is possible to isolate the most powerful demons who undoubtedly occupy key places in the hierarchy of hell.

Demon names and power

According to various sources, the number the most powerful demons there is a different number of them. Here, those of them will be highlighted that are considered the strongest according to the version of most religious teachings of Christianity and religions close to it.

And also, according to the majority of mystics and occultists. The most powerful are:

Devil, Satan, Lucifer- the most powerful demon of the fiery hyena, the lord of hell, the concentration of universal evil. He has a huge number of names and forms. Moreover, in different Abrahamic religions and in different eras, there are differences in its description. fallen angel , who rebelled against the Lord. At the same time, in the Middle Ages, the devil was also correlated with Beelzivul, although this demon is also an independent creature.

It is possible that Satan is a broader concept than just a name or title and includes a collective image of the highest demons. But this claim is controversial.

Right Hand of the Lord of Hell

The last giant sea monster, which, according to some versions, is considered the highest demons, according to others, one of the incarnations of Satan. The position of Lilith is very ambiguous.

But she definitely occupies a high position and has tremendous strength.

In a number of divisions, the four supreme, and therefore the most powerful demons are Lucifer, Leviathan, Satan and Belial.

Other positions

A separate division is offered by Satanists with a clearer structure. But it lends itself to criticism, both the church and the occultists.

The mystics and occultists themselves also do not have a consensus on the power of demons.

There are times when representatives of different directions argue about the meaning and power of individual demons.

A completely separate look at power of demons is a statement that rarely leaves the circle of some mystics that all demons of hell are divided by species.

And representatives of the same species, being inextricably linked, have equal power. Thus, a completely different hierarchy is emerging.

The details, however, are unknown. Since the supporters of this classification of demons practically do not share this information.