Excerpt: Dive into the realm of good and evil as we explore the intriguing question: Is Satan, the devil, the epitome of narcissism? Discover the correlation between narcissistic characteristics and satanic character, drawing insights from both biblical history and world events. Join us on this thought-provoking journey to unravel the complexities of evil and its origins, while also delving into how narcissism blinds Satan to his own certain failure.
• Consider the traits that define narcissism
• Understand the relationship between narcissism and evil
• Explore how Satan personifies narcissistic traits
• Gain a deeper understanding of the roots of evil and its impact on society
Introduction:
Evil has always been a subject of fascination and curiosity for mankind. As we delve into the question of whether Satan, the devil, is the ultimate narcissist, we enter a realm where psychological analysis meets biblical history. This exploration aims to shed light on the correlation between narcissistic characteristics and the character of the devil. By drawing insights from both the Bible and world events, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of the roots of evil and its implications for humanity.
Defining Narcissism:
First, let’s outline the fundamental characteristics of a narcissist. Here are some of their defining traits:
• An excessive sense of self-importance
• A constant need for admiration
• Lack of empathy
• Manipulators, exploiters
• Belief that they are entitled to special treatment
• Arrogance
In relationships, a narcissist may devastate others; yet they are incredibly resistant to self-awareness and change. A family member may beg them to get help, love them beyond all reason, and threaten to leave them, but it will be about as effective as talking to a brick wall.
With this brief description, let’s examine whether these traits align with satanic character.
Satan in Biblical History:
Throughout the Bible, Satan is depicted as a deceptive and prideful being. In the book of Isaiah, we find his infamous declaration: “I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High.” (Isaiah 14:14) This insatiable desire for power and self-glorification reflects the core of narcissism.
Satan’s rebellion against God can be seen as an extreme manifestation of narcissistic traits, as he places his own desires above everything else. Even though he has seen the Lord’s very throne room and probably witnessed the creation of the universe, he seems to believe he is God’s equal. Apparently, his narcissism blinds him to the Lord’s infinite glory and vast dominance over him.
The Temptation in the Garden:
In Genesis 3, we find the story of Adam and Eve’s fall from grace. Satan, in the guise of a serpent, entices Eve with the promise of godlike knowledge, appealing to her sense of self-importance. Why not? It is the same temptation that ruined him.
By tempting Adam and Eve to pursue a more exalted position, Satan manipulates their vulnerability for his own gain. God had put Adam and Eve in charge of the Garden of Eden and, in fact, of the whole Earth (Genesis 1:28). But by pulling them down from their hallowed position, Satan becomes the “prince of the power of the air.” (Ephesians 2:2)
This manipulation aligns with the narcissist’s inclination to exploit others for personal benefit. However, in his arrogance, Satan fails to realize that his attempt to overthrow God will ultimately lead to his own downfall.
Satan’s Blindness to His Own Failure:
Narcissists often possess an inflated sense of superiority that blinds them to their own faults and shortcomings. Similarly, Satan’s narcissism prevents him from recognizing his comparative weakness and the inevitable failure that awaits him. Despite being aware of God’s power, Satan’s pride and self-importance cloud his judgment and prevent him from acknowledging his certain defeat. In his delusion, he underestimates the true magnitude of God’s authority and overestimates his own capabilities.
Satan in World History:
I believe it is clear that much of the evil in the world can be traced to the devil’s influence. Thus, if we look at some of the narcissistic monsters who have wreaked havoc on everyone around them, can we doubt that they were acting under Satan’s influence and inspiration? Consider these:
• Wannabe world dictators – Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, Saddam Hussein, etc. – who thought they were so important they should be in charge of telling everyone else what to do.
• Persecutors of the Jews – the Egyptian Pharaoh, Adolf Hitler, Hamas, etc. – who are in an eternal war to destroy God’s chosen nation – How do we explain their venom except that Satan is determined to get revenge on God for not recognizing his importance?
• Serial murderers and pedophiles – I won’t list names, but can you imagine any act more devoid of empathy and brimming with arrogance than murdering helpless victims and abusing children?
It is not unreasonable to say that these villains are the face of Satan. I don’t know exactly how it happens, but the Bible makes is clear that the denizens of the underworld are able to influence humans. Some people purposely invite demonic contact and are open to their dark and cruel schemes. But it seems that all of us, at least in some small way, are subjected to the devil’s wooings and cooings.
Terminology:
Some of the terminology that has sprung up around narcissists support my thesis. For example, narcissists have “flying monkeys.” These characters are friends, relatives, and acquaintances manipulated by the narcissist to do his/her bidding. Satan has hordes of demons in his ruthless gang. Maybe they count as flying monkeys, but probably not. In human terms, flying monkeys tend to be deceived, believing whatever story the narcissist has fed them. Demons don’t quite fit this mold.
No, I would count a number of human types as Satan’s flying monkeys. Among them would be new age gurus, channelers, palm readers, makers of Ouija boards, psychics – anyone who entices their followers to open themselves up to the dark powers of hell. Probably these metaphorical monkeys believe they are helping their clients. Unfortunately, they are doing the opposite and serving the purposes of Satan.
“Hoovering” refers to narcissists’ efforts to suck someone back into their destructive web after the person has made a bid for freedom. If you stop and consider all the addictive substances and activities available to moderns – drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, sweet treats, entertainment, shopping, social media, gambling, pornography, video games, etc. etc. etc. – do you have any doubt that Satan uses any and all of these means to attract people away from healthy foods and meaningful activities into his destructive domain? That’s not to say everyone with addictions is submitted to Satan. I’m just saying that narcissists love to manipulate their “targets.” And my guess is that addictions are one of the many methods the devil uses to keep human victims on a leash.
Last, there’s “gaslighting,” the act of manipulating someone into doubting their own reality or sanity. In other words, gaslighting involves lying, and Jesus said the devil is a liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44) Starting with Adam and Eve, Satan has probably tried to gaslight every person who has ever lived. Perhaps, his highest aim is to draw us all away from the reality and truth revealed in God’s Word.
My Mental Ramblings:
Think about a narcissist you have known or heard of. Did they ever change? Could they even be convinced they had a problem? Based on my admittedly superficial understanding, narcissists are extremely resistant to recognizing their true nature and seeking intervention. They may pretend to change, but most can’t even be convinced they need to change.
Here’s my point. I have wondered for years how the devil could be so foolish as to “take on” God. Isn’t it obvious he’s a pipsqueak compared to the Lord’s omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence? Yet Satan struts around, preparing his troops for the great showdown described in the book of Revelation.
A few days ago, it occurred to me – maybe the devil is a narcissist. Maybe whatever it is that makes narcissists blind to their own true nature and frozen in their self-defeating behaviors is what makes Satan cling to his fruitless vendetta against the Lord of Glory. Maybe Satan is even the ultimate narcissist!
The Ultimate Narcissist: Unveiled or Unanswered?
In the realms of both biblical history and world events, we find compelling evidence supporting the notion that Satan, the devil, embodies narcissistic traits. The devil’s unwavering self-importance, manipulation of others, and pursuit of power align closely with the characteristics of narcissism. Moreover, his blindness to his own faults and impending failure showcases another facet of narcissism.
While the correlation between narcissistic traits and the character of Satan is evident, it is important to note that evil is a complex phenomenon that transcends mere psychological analysis. The question of whether Satan is the ultimate narcissist may never be definitively answered. However, exploring this connection can deepen our understanding of the forces at play in the battle between good and evil. Furthermore, it highlights the inherent blindness narcissism brings, blinding these individuals to their own faults and their inevitable failure.
Invitation:
If you know or have known a narcissist, you may have an opinion on this topic. If so, please tell us what you think by leaving a comment below. Thank you!
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Photo credits: RosZie on pixabay
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