An introduction to demon work and demonolatry

Start your demonolatry journey with The Devil’s Apple guide. Learn safe demon work and how to build spiritual connections with the infernal divine, while deconstructing some of your misconceptions

Glossary

  • Demon or infernal?

There isn’t much room for debate when it comes to what we call them. Whether you refer to them as demons, infernal beings, or any other term, it’s ultimately up to the practitioner’s preference. These terms all describe the same category of divine entities. Personally, I lean toward using « demon, » but you might find « demonic divine » or another term resonates more with you. The important thing is that you choose what feels right in your practice, as they all point to the same beings.

  • Demonolatry

The veneration and/or worship of the demonic divine. Demonolators seek a personal relationship with the demonic through revering them and working with them.

  • Demonology

The academic study of demons.

You are interested in this path, what now?

  • Understanding the nature of the demonic

In this lived practice that is demonolatry, demons are not perceived as evil little creatures on your shoulder, tempting you to eat this last slice of cake or of cheating on your partner. They are complex beings, associated with concepts, ideas, emotions, and matter. The first thing to do is to dig into the etymology and cultural significance of the word « demon ».

  • Aren’t they evil?

The concept of evil varies across cultures and time. If you believe seeking the occult knowledge and gnosis is evil, I wonder what you are doing here, but mostly think this path isn’t for you. The demonic divine isn’t « evil », they aren’t your scapegoat. Darkness and light, order and chaos, those polarities are necessary for the balance of the universe. The demonic divine reflects just that. They aren’t submitted to our moral codes, yet they understand them. Second thing is to deconstruct your Abrahamic understanding of the infernal divine.

  • I am a total beginner in everything, what do I do first?

To start your journey in magic, first grasp how magic operates and the fundamentals of energy manipulation. Learn to perceive and direct energy, grounding yourself by connecting to the Earth for stability. Centre your energies to enhance focus, and create protective barriers through shielding. Develop your psychic and mental faculties via meditation and concentration. Master the basics of rituals, including casting circles, understanding tools and stages, and working with elements. Strengthen your skills in psychic and magical self-defence, including both defence and attack, and practice ritual combat for banishing unwanted forces. Finally, delve into evocation and invocation to effectively summon and interact with spiritual entities.

  • How do I build a relationship with them?

The core of demon work lies in building and maintaining a respectful relationship with these entities. This process often begins with a simple offering or invocation, asking the demon to engage with you. May it be through your clairsenses, dreams, external signs or astral experiences, you will know when the infernal you sought answers you. Do not expect anything, keep a sincere intention and an open mind. Slowly, you will get to know them, like they will get to know you. All of this is about an energy exchange.

  • How do I communicate with them?

Communication with demons can take many forms, including direct conversation (through your clairsenses like vision, hearing, feelings etc), divination methods like tarot or pendulum work, and through meditation or astral projection.

  • Do I have to sell my soul?

What will they do with it? No, there’s no selling souls in this practice

  • I’ve heard there are demons to not approach?

Not all demons are suitable for beginners or casual approaches. While I don’t believe there’s such a thing as a « beginner demon », it would be foolish to deny some of them are more understanding of your mistakes than others. Infernals such as Marquis Andras or President Glasya-Labolas, have in demonolatry spaces, the sort of rule of « let them approach you first ». This caution is not because these demons are inherently evil, but rather because their energies, roles, or the nature of their work can be extremely intense, challenging, or difficult to manage without proper preparation. However; if those demonic beings are said to require a more cautious approach, it doesn’t mean they will never show leniency and will, for lack of better words, fuck your entire life over. As a rule of thumb, it is said to have some experiences in demon work before approaching those intense currents of energy. Please note that them appoaching you doesn’t make you a chosen one, or more worthy than others. Literally every infernal can be challenging depending on your own personal situation. It goes without saying the infernal divine isn’t your personal attack dog by the way.

Misconceptions Concerning Demonolatry

  • Demonolatry Equals Devil Worship

One of the most common misconceptions about demonolatry is that it involves worshiping the Devil. If some diabolists can be demonolators, not all demonolators are diabolists.

  • Demonolatry Is Dangerous or Cursed

I’ve heard in the past some people believe that, engaging in demonolatry will bring danger, curses, or misfortune upon them. While working with demons requires respect and caution, it is not inherently dangerous. The idea that demonolatry is cursed comes from misunderstandings and fear-based narratives. With proper knowledge, preparation, and respect, demonolators safely work with demons, seeking their guidance and help in personal and spiritual matters​. It is as a knife; what do you choose to do with it?

  • Demonolatry Involves Sacrifices or Selling Souls

I mentioned that a little above, but what will they do with your soul? The idea of « selling your soul » is a concept popularized by folklore and media, and is not a practice in demonolatry​. Actual offerings for the infernal divine are symbolic and can include things like candles, incense, or personal dedication acts.

  • Demonolatry Is Only for the « Dark » and « Edgy »

Many people think that those who practice demonolatry are just trying to be dark, edgy, or rebellious. Demonolators could actually be your very kind neighbours, the one that takes care of your dog when you are out or even the polite and discreet vendor at your favourite store. Practitioners engage in this path for a variety of reasons, including spiritual growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge, rather than as a form of rebellion or shock value.

  • You need to renounce other religions if you want to be on this path

There’s a misconception that practicing demonolatry means you must completely renounce any other religious or spiritual beliefs. In reality, demonolatry can coexist with other belief systems. Some practitioners incorporate elements from different religions, such as Paganism, into their demonolatry practices for instance. You’d be surprise on how diverse the demonolatry community can be!

  • Demonolatry Requires Formal Initiation or a Coven

Some believe that to practice demonolatry, one must undergo a formal initiation or be part of a coven. However, demonolatry can be practiced individually, and many practitioners are solitary. While some may choose to join a group or undergo an initiation, it is not a requirement for all.