The Origins of Demon Lovers

Demons have fascinated humankind for centuries, and among the most seductive and sinister are the succubi and incubi. These sex demons, steeped in history and folklore, are known for nocturnal visits and forbidden desires.

What is a Sex Demon?

In folklore, succubi and incubi are demons that engage in sexual relations with humans while they sleep. A succubus (plural: succubi) is typically depicted as a female demon that seduces men, draining their life force through sexual encounters. The incubus (plural: incubi), is the male counterpart, preying on women in their sleep.

These demons are often portrayed as seductively beautiful but inherently evil, with the power to control dreams and desires.

Historical Origins

The origin of the succubus and incubus legends can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where spirits or deities associated with sexuality and the night were common. Here's a look at some of the key historical roots:

Mesopotamian Mythology

One of the earliest references to succubi comes from Lilith, a figure in ancient Mesopotamian and Jewish traditions. In some interpretations, Lilith is believed to be the first succubus—a rebellious woman and who refused to submit to Adam (of "Adam and Eve" fame) and later became a demon, luring men to their doom.

Ancient Greece and Rome

Creatures such as lamia and empusa were often linked to succubi. Lamia, for instance, was a figure who preyed on young men, and her legend evolved into one of a demonic seductress.

Medieval Europe

In Christian theology, succubi and incubi were regarded as agents of Satan. Sent to corrupt and tempt people into committing sinful acts. Many believed that prolonged encounters with these demons could result in physical ailments or spiritual damnation. (fun fact: Merlin, the magician from the legend of King Arthur, was said to have been fathered by an incubus.)

Renaissance Witch Hunts

During the European witch hunts, tales of succubi and incubi were often used as "evidence" against alleged witches. It was believed that witches consorted with these demons to gain power or influence, leading to their persecution.

Sleep Paralysis

Modern science attributes many succubus and incubus encounters to sleep paralysis, a phenomenon in which a person is temporarily unable to move or speak while falling asleep or waking up, often accompanied by vivid hallucinations. In earlier centuries, however, this condition was often attributed to the work of demonic entities.

Today

While traditionally seen as evil, succubi and incubi have been romanticized in modern pop culture, appearing in books, movies, and TV shows. These depictions focus on a seductive nature rather than their malevolence, turning them into complex, even sympathetic, characters blurring the line between predator and lover. Whether you fear or fantasize about, succubi and incubi remain some of the most compelling figures in the paranormal world.