Strong’s Greek 1141 (δαιμονιώδης) appears once in the New Testament, in James 3:15, to qualify a counterfeit “wisdom” that stands in sharp contrast to the “wisdom from above.” The term characterizes something originating in, animated by, or sharing the moral likeness of demons. While the word itself is rare, its single occurrence serves as a window into the wider biblical teaching on demonic influence over thought, behavior, and social relations.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

Though the exact term is absent from the Hebrew Scriptures, the idea it conveys is anticipated wherever Israel is warned against pagan spirituality. Moses cautioned that idolatry involved “demons, not God” (Deuteronomy 32:17). The prophets exposed occult practices (e.g., Isaiah 8:19) and syncretistic worship as spiritually destructive. Such passages frame demonic activity as a polluting source of deception that lures people away from the fear of the LORD—preparing the reader to understand why a seemingly “wise” approach that disregards divine revelation must be labeled demonic.

New Testament Usage

James 3:15: “Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.”

Here the apostle James places δαιμονιώδης at the end of a three–part description, showing an escalating opposition to God: (1) “earthly” ties it to a fallen world system, (2) “unspiritual” points to the soulish realm detached from the Holy Spirit, and (3) “demonic” reveals its ultimate origin in the realm of evil spirits. The word therefore functions climactically, unmasking the real power behind jealousy, selfish ambition, disorder, and “every evil practice” (James 3:16).

Related Terms and Themes

1. Daimonion (Strong’s 1140) – the more common noun for “demon,” used of the beings themselves (e.g., Mark 1:34).
2. Pneumata planēs – “deceitful spirits,” 1 Timothy 4:1, marking a similar category of false teachings energized by supernatural evil.
3. “The spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience” (Ephesians 2:2) – Paul’s description of coordinated demonic influence within human society.

Together these passages form a canonical theology: evil spirits not only afflict physically but also corrupt the intellect, ethics, and social order.

Theological Significance

1. Epistemological Battle: Scripture locates the ultimate battle for truth in the spiritual realm. Ideas, worldviews, and moral visions are never neutral; they are either “from above” or “demonic.”
2. Moral Outworking: James links δαιμονιώδης “wisdom” with relational strife (James 3:14–16), illustrating how ungodly counsel produces fragmentation, rivalry, and chaos—hallmarks of Satan’s kingdom.
3. Necessity of Regeneration: Only the indwelling Holy Spirit can provide the “pure, peace-loving, gentle” wisdom listed in James 3:17. Natural humanity remains vulnerable to demonic deception (1 Corinthians 2:14).

Historical and Ministry Implications

Early Church: Patristic writers (e.g., Justin Martyr, Origen) interpreted philosophical systems that denied the Gospel as ultimately demonic in origin, echoing James.

Reformation Era: Reformers applied James 3:15 to condemn superstitions and ecclesiastical abuses that hid behind pseudo-spiritual “wisdom.”

Contemporary Discipleship:
• Discernment—Pastors must test cultural narratives, self-help philosophies, and even “Christian” teachings against the whole counsel of God.
• Spiritual Warfare—Intercessory prayer and proclamation of Scripture are central weapons against ideas energized by evil spirits (2 Corinthians 10:3–5).
• Character Focus—Cultivating the fruit listed in James 3:17 guards congregations from the relational fallout of demonic wisdom.

Practical Tests for Discernment (James 3:13–18)

1. Origin: Does it align with revealed Scripture or appeal merely to human reason?
2. Motive: Does it fuel pride and rivalry or humility and service?
3. Fruit: Does it breed disorder and evil practice, or righteousness and peace?

See Also

Deuteronomy 32:17; Isaiah 8:19; Matthew 4:24; Mark 9:25; Luke 11:24–26; Acts 16:16–18; 1 Corinthians 2:12–16; 2 Corinthians 10:3–5; 1 Timothy 4:1–2; 1 John 4:1–6; Revelation 16:13–14.

Summary

δαιμονιώδης exposes the true nature of any “wisdom” that defies God’s revelation: it is energized by demonic forces and leads to chaos and moral ruin. James’s single usage stands as a perpetual call to discernment, urging believers to seek and display the wisdom that “comes from above,” grounded in the person and work of Jesus Christ.