Are Demons Real?

In communities all over the U.S., there are individuals engaging in fraudulent activities by masquerading as 'healers', 'psychics', 'lightworkers', and other titles to gain people's trust. Even in my small town, these frauds exist, showing that no community is free from their influence.

To protect ourselves from these impostors, it is crucial to be informed about the typical strategies these dishonest individuals employ to deceive, pressure, manipulate, and take advantage of those seeking their assistance.
 
 Because of this article (and so many others like it) I wanted to address this topic, and start specifically with the age-old scam of 'You have a demon!'
 
 If you are being told you are possessed by a demon by a 'spiritual worker' who sees demons everywhere and in everyone- including young children or teenagers- RUN. Run and don't look back. These are FRAUDS of the highest order.
 
 
 Let's Set the Record Straight
 

 Telling a parent their child has a demon is reprehensible, unethical and dangerous (it's also likely criminal and if it's not it FUCKING SHOULD BE). Children are abused, tortured and killed because families were told their child had a demon.
 
 Telling people they are possessed or have a demon is a CLASSIC SCAM and fraud tactic that makes people afraid. For only $40 (or $400!) they can take that demon out of you or your loved one with anything from a Pendulum (the fuck??) to an elaborate 'spell' and ritual that makes you believe something 'real' has happened. It's ALL. A. LIE. designed to part you with your common sense and money. Don't be an easy victim.
 
 But ArE dEmOnS rEaL?
 
 Demons are part of the Christian pantheon. Satan, demons, Jesus... these are not deities or spiritual entities that play a role in non-Abrahamic belief systems such as Paganism. Only when you have adopted some Christian elements into your practice would you potentially consider demons to be real, in which case you would not be Pagan, you would be something else with its own label or traditions.
 
 As a Pagan or non-Christian Witch, there is zero reason to invest in fears surrounding demons. You are not subject to nor susceptible to possession or coercion by demons from the Christian mythos. If you have fears or concerns about demons, consider what other explanations there may be to account for what you believe is happening. If you find the task overwhelming or feel stuck and making no progress, you don't have to do it alone! Seek the help of a professional or a licensed therapist you can talk to who can offer you unbiased and objective advice.
 
 'The devil made me do it' or a 'demon possessed me' have been used by assholes for centuries to weasel out of taking responsibility for their actions. Everything from sexual assault, child molestation, violence against women and murder.
 
 In Paganism and Witchcraft, we don't blame the big baddie for our behavior. We take ownership for ourselves and we fix the mistakes we make when we are able, then face the consequences.
 
 If you came from a Christian religion before converting to Paganism or Witchcraft, you may be holding on to old beliefs and conditioning without realizing it. Sometimes this just takes time to work out of your system- and for some people, it can take years. Be kind to yourself, be patient and stay invested in reason and logic while you discover how to live a life free of the man-made threat of fire and brimstone and eternal damnation.
 
 In Witchcraft we sometimes work with what are known as Goetic Demons. These are not to be confused with demons from the bible, related to the devil/Satan, or demons who possess humans based on the Christian belief system.
 
 You can find all 72 of the Goetia in the Lesser Key of Solomon. These are not actual beings by most beliefs. Instead, they are thought of as a psychological exercise for uncovering or fostering related abilities in oneself. Working with Goetia is an aspect of Shadow Work that some practitioners find helpful.
 
 Aleister Crowley wrote,

" If, then, I say...

“The Spirit Cimieries teaches logic,”
 
 what I mean is:
 
 “Those portions of my brain which subserve the logical faculty may be stimulated and developed by following out the processes called ‘The Invocation of Cimieries.”
 
 I believe there are real healers, psychics and spiritual workers who do not deceive or exploit their clients. It's critical to remember at all times that not all people who claim to be 'Spiritual' are there to help you, look out for your best interests or are motivated by a higher calling. We all must take ownership for ourselves and be our own best ally.
 
 
 Stay wise, lovelies.
 
 ~Solaris

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