Beelzebub

Beelzebub illustration by Collin de Plancy

Beelzebub is a figure from Christian demonology and is often depicted as a powerful and malevolent demon. The name "Beelzebub" is derived from the Canaanite deity Baal, who was worshipped as a god of fertility, agriculture, and weather. In Christian tradition and demonology, Beelzebub became associated with a powerful demonic figure and one of the seven princes of Hell.Beelzebub is often depicted as a tempter and corrupter, using his powers to lead mortals away from the path of righteousness and into darkness. He is associated with temptation, corruption, and other forms of evil, and is often portrayed as a cunning and intelligent figure capable of manipulating others to achieve his goals. In some traditions, he is also associated with disease and pestilence, and is said to have the power to spread illness and plagues throughout the world.

## History

Beelzebub is a figure from Christian demonology and is not associated with a real historical person or event. Rather, Beelzebub is a mythological and spiritual figure, often depicted as a powerful and malevolent demon.

The origins of the name Beelzebub can be traced back to the Canaanite god Baal, who was worshipped as a deity of fertility, agriculture, and weather. Over time, the name became associated with a powerful demonic figure in Christian demonology, one of the seven princes of Hell and a tempter of mortals.

The characterization of Beelzebub as a demonic figure reflects the Christian belief in the existence of evil spirits and the dangers of temptation and corruption. While the figure of Beelzebub has continued to be popular in literature, art, and popular culture, the story of Beelzebub is primarily a mythological and spiritual one, rather than a real historical account.

The god of Ekron in ancient Canaanite mythology was named Baalzebub or Baal-Zebub, which means "Lord of the Flies". Baalzebub was worshipped as a god of fertility, agriculture, and weather, and was believed to have the power to protect crops from pests and disease.In the Hebrew Bible, Baalzebub is mentioned as a deity worshipped by the Philistines in the city of Ekron. In the New Testament, the name Baalzebub is used as a derogatory term for Satan, suggesting a connection between the Canaanite deity and the Christian devil. Overall, the god of Ekron in ancient Canaanite mythology was a significant figure in the region's religious beliefs, and his name has continued to be used in various contexts throughout history and in popular culture.

### Paradise lost

In John Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost, Beelzebub is depicted as a fallen angel and one of the leaders of the rebellion against God. He is one of the most prominent and influential characters in the poem, second only to Satan himself.

In Paradise Lost, Beelzebub is described as having been one of the highest-ranking angels in heaven before his fall. Together with Satan, he leads a rebellion against God, seeking to overthrow His divine rule and establish their own dominion. After their defeat and expulsion from heaven, Beelzebub and the other fallen angels are cast into Hell, where they plot their revenge against God and continue to spread evil and corruption throughout the world.

Throughout the poem, Beelzebub serves as a loyal and trusted advisor to Satan, offering counsel and assistance in their efforts to undermine God's authority. He is depicted as a cunning and intelligent figure, capable of manipulating others to achieve his goals. Despite his demonic nature, however, Beelzebub also exhibits a sense of regret and sadness for his fall from grace, reflecting on the loss of his former glory and the futile nature of his rebellion against God.

## powers and abilities

* **Archdemon Physiology** - Beelzebub is often described as a high-ranking demon, holding a prominent position among the demonic hierarchy. In some traditions, he is said to be one of the seven princes of Hell, alongside figures such as Lucifer and Belial.
* **Demon Lordship**: Beelzebub is said to have the power to control other demons and malevolent entities, using them to do his bidding and spread evil throughout the world.
* **Temptation Embodiment:** Beelzebub is associated with temptation and corruption, using his powers to lead mortals away from the path of righteousness and into darkness. He is often depicted as a tempter, offering mortals wealth, power, and pleasure in exchange for their souls.
* **Occultism**: Beelzebub is said to be a master of dark magic, capable of casting powerful spells and performing rituals that amplify his powers and spread evil throughout the world.
* **Disease Manipulation**: In some depictions, Beelzebub is associated with disease and pestilence, and is said to have the power to spread illness and plagues throughout the world.

## Gallery

"Beelzebub and them that are with him shoot arrows" from John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress (1678)Lucifer and beelzebub