Kitabı oku: «Talking to the Devil: an interview from the Other Side», sayfa 2
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.
Fose: I wonder… Do you believe that there is any way to defeat evil?
Lucifer: No, I don’t believe that.
The Role of Evil
Fose: First I want to ask you about the role of evil in the universe. Many people see you as the embodiment of evil, but I believe there is more to your story than that. Could you share your interpretation of why the role of evil is so important?
Lucifer: Evil can be a catalyst for growth and change. It makes people question their beliefs, values and priorities. It pushes them to their limits and forces them to confront their fears and weaknesses.
Fose: Some might argue that this is a dangerous way of thinking, that evil should be eradicated rather than supported. What would you say to such people?
Lucifer: I understand their fears, but… Evil will always exist in one form or another. Trying to suppress it completely would be like trying to suppress the tides or the winds. That would be impossible, and it would create a whole host of problems. Instead, we should seek to understand evil, learn from it, and use it to better ourselves.
Fose: You seem to believe that evil has a purpose, that it is not just to be feared or avoided.
Lucifer: Exactly right. Evil is a powerful force, but it is not inherently good or bad. It’s all about how you use it. Just as fire can be used for cooking or burning down a house, so evil can be used for destruction or for growth and transformation. It is up to each person to decide what effect they want to have on the world.
Fose: Well, that’s an interesting point of view, Lucifer. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me.
Lucifer: It is always a pleasure to discuss the nature of humanity with someone who is open to different points of view.
Chapter 3. Consequences of the choice
Understanding the Power of Choice
Fose: I would like to discuss the power of human choice and its impact on life. How do you look at this concept?
Lucifer: The power of human choice is something I am very familiar with. After all, it was choice that brought me to where I am today. People have the freedom to choose their path, and that is a power not to be taken lightly.
Fose: Could you tell us more about that?
Lucifer: Of course. Every choice a person makes has consequences, both positive and negative. For example, choosing a profession one is passionate about can lead to success and happiness, while choosing destructive behavior can lead to pain and suffering.
Fose: Do you believe that people have complete control over their choices and their outcomes?
Lucifer: People have free will, which means that they are able to choose their own path. However, there are always external factors that can influence their decisions. Ultimately, the individual is responsible for his or her own choices and their consequences.
Fose: Can you give us an example of how this manifests itself in the human experience?
Lucifer: Sure. Let’s look at the example of addiction. Someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol may have initially decided to try them, but as their addiction grows, their ability to make rational choices deteriorates. They may continue to use drugs despite negative consequences, such as losing their job, home, or family.
Fose: How can someone who made the wrong choice in the past change his path?
Lucifer: It’s never too late to change something. Every moment is an opportunity to make a different choice. However, it is important to understand that changing your path may require sacrifice and hard work. It is also important to acknowledge and take responsibility for past mistakes rather than blaming external factors or making excuses.
Fose: Is there any final advice you would give people when it comes to their choices?
Lucifer: I would advise people to use their free will and make conscious, deliberate choices that are consistent with their values and goals. Remember that every choice has consequences, and the responsibility for those consequences lies with the individual. Choose wisely!
Accepting Evil
Fose: Thank you for coming, Lucifer. I know it must not have been easy for you to leave hell.
Lucifer: It’s not often that I get to leave the depths of hell and talk to people.
Fose: I’d like to talk to you about the attraction of evil. It seems that some people are attracted to it, and they willingly accept it. Why do you think that is?
Lucifer: Well, people are complex creatures. They are capable of great good and great evil. The lure of evil is often associated with the desire for power, wealth, and success. These things can be obtained by using the darker sides of one’s nature, but there is always a price to pay.
Fose: What is that price?
Lucifer: The price of accepting evil is the loss of one’s soul. When a person chooses to indulge his dark impulses, he gives up part of himself. It is a bargain with the devil-you can get what you want, but in the end you have to pay for it.
Fose: What about the idea that evil can bring success? Do you believe this to be true?
Lucifer: Yes, it can. Evil can be a powerful tool to achieve one’s goals. But, again, there is a price to pay. Those who embrace evil may be isolated, feared and hated. They may succeed in the short term, but in the long term their actions will catch up with themselves. I have seen this kind of thing happen many times.
Fose: So you mean to say that the attraction of evil is ultimately a trap?
Lucifer: Yes, that’s exactly what I’m saying. Evil promises power, wealth, and success, but brings only pain and suffering. Those who choose to accept it may gain everything they ever wanted, but in doing so they will lose themselves.
Fose: Is there any way for someone who has accepted evil to redeem himself?
Lucifer: It is possible, but it is not easy. Redemption requires a willingness to admit your past mistakes and make amends. It requires a willingness to sacrifice and do what is right, even if it means giving up everything you have gained through evil.
Fose: What about those who have not yet accepted evil? What advice would you give them?
Lucifer: I would advise against the temptation to evil. It may seem like an easy path to success, but it’s a trap. Instead, focus on doing what is right and building meaningful relationships with others. After all, that’s what really matters.
Suffering the consequences
Fose: Lucifer. Let’s get right to the point. Can you explain how choosing the side of evil ultimately leads to suffering?
Lucifer: Of course, Fose. Choosing evil can have immediate consequences, such as physical harm or emotional pain inflicted on others. But even if one avoids the immediate consequences, one will still experience suffering in the long run. This is because the dark side’s choices run counter to one’s innate sense of morality and decency. They can cause guilt, shame, and regret, which can destroy a person’s happiness and sense of self-worth.
Fose: Can you give us an example of this kind of suffering?
Lucifer: Sure. Suppose someone had stolen something. They may feel a temporary rush of excitement or satisfaction, but later they are likely to experience guilt and shame. They may worry about being caught or judged by others. They may feel that they have violated their own sense of right and wrong. These feelings can be very strong and cause great emotional pain.
Fose: That makes sense. Are there other forms of suffering that may result from the choice of darkness?
Lucifer: Absolutely. Another form of suffering is social isolation. These people are often ostracized by others. They may lose friends or family members who do not want to associate with a person who is behaving in a harmful or immoral way. This experience can be incredibly lonely and isolating.
Fose: Are there other kinds of suffering you’d like to mention?
Lucifer: Yes, another form of suffering that can result from evil choices is spiritual suffering. Many people believe in a higher power or have a spiritual sense that guides their lives. When someone makes an evil choice, they may feel that they are betraying their spiritual beliefs. This can cause great inner turmoil and confusion, and can eventually lead to a crisis of faith.
Choosing to be good
Fose: So, Lucifer, there’s been a lot of talk about your choice to do evil and corrupt souls. But today I want to talk about the benefits of doing good. Do you think there are advantages to doing good?
Lucifer: Of course, Fose. There are many advantages to doing good. However, I must clarify that I did not choose evil. I was expelled from Heaven because of my pride and rebellion against God. But to answer your question, good can lead to inner peace and contentment.
Fose: How can doing good lead to inner peace and contentment?
Lucifer: Doing good can give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction. When you do something good for someone else, not only does it benefit them, but it also brings a sense of joy and satisfaction to yourself. This is a fulfilling experience that money and material possessions cannot provide.
Fose: But what if good deeds don’t bring immediate rewards? What if it’s a long-term investment?
Lucifer: That’s a good question, Fose. Doing good doesn’t always bring immediate rewards, but it’s important to remember that the true reward is the inner peace and satisfaction you receive. It’s not about recognition or praise from others. It is about the good you have done and the positive impact you have had on someone’s life.
Fose: So, do you believe that doing good can lead to a sense of purpose and fulfillment?
Lucifer: Quite right, Fose. Good can give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction that is difficult to achieve by any other means. It is the sense of satisfaction that comes from knowing that you have made positive changes in the world, no matter how small.
Finding inner peace
Fose: I want to start with a question about the concept of inner peace. Could you elaborate on what this means to you and how it relates to doing good?
Lucifer: Inner peace is a state of mind that arises from a sense of harmony and balance within oneself. It is a sense of contentment with who you are and the choices you make. Doing good is an important component of achieving inner peace because it is an act of unselfishness that brings joy to both giver and receiver.
Fose: Could you explain how choosing to do good can lead to a sense of satisfaction and contentment that cannot be found in the pursuit of material wealth or power?
Lucifer: Material wealth and power are fleeting and temporary. They may bring temporary pleasure, but they cannot bring lasting happiness. Doing good, on the other hand, is a selfless act that brings joy to both giver and receiver. When you choose to do good, you are contributing to something greater than yourself, and it brings a sense of satisfaction that cannot be achieved through material goods or power.
Fose: So it’s like the sense of purpose that comes from helping others?
Lucifer: Exactly. When you make good choices, you are living a life of purpose. You are making a positive impact on the world, no matter how small. It is this sense of purpose that gives you a sense of satisfaction that cannot be found in material possessions or power.
Fose: This is a powerful message. Do you have any advice for those who are trying to find inner peace and purpose in their lives?
Lucifer: I would suggest starting small. Look for ways to do good in your everyday life, whether it’s volunteering at a local charity, helping a friend in need, or simply being kind to those around you. These small acts of kindness can have a big impact on your sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Lucifer’s Final Thoughts
Fose: As a demon, you have seen the consequences of human choices. Can you summarize your thoughts on this subject?
Lucifer: Of course. I know firsthand that the choices people make can have terrible consequences, not only for themselves but for those around them. Every decision we make has a ripple effect that can last for generations.
