TheoFons

The City of God

CIV · Augustine · 426 · EN · 652 paragraphs · newadvent.org ↗

However, the very origin of the name suggests something worthy of consideration, if we compare it with the divine books. They are called demons from a Greek word meaning knowledge . Now the apostle, speaking with the Holy Spirit , says, Knowledge puffs up, but charity builds up. 21 Corinthians 8:1 And this can only be understood as meaning that without charity knowledge does no good, but inflates a man or magnifies him with an empty windiness. The demons , then, have knowledge without charity, and are thereby so inflated or proud , that they crave those divine honors and religious services which they know to be due to the true God , and still, as far as they can, exact these from all over whom they have influence. Against this pride of the demons , under which the human race was held subject as its merited punishment, there was exerted the mighty influence of the humility of God , who appeared in the form of a servant; but men, resembling the demons in pride , but not in knowledge , and being puffed up with uncleanness, failed to recognize Him.

Notes

  1. 2. 1 Corinthians 8:1