In Judaism, concern for demons and ghosts varies among different Jewish communities but it is certain that there are specific notions of spirits on earth and evil beings. Even in the most authentic use of scriptural analysis, Jewish theology primarily focuses on the worship of one God and adherence to the commandments outlined in the Torah, and denounces involvement in these negative, unproductive matters.
The Torah contains specific commandments and prohibitions related to contacting the deceased or engaging in necromancy, implying that there is such a reality. For instance, in Deuteronomy 18:10-12, which states:
“There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a one who consults ghosts and spirits or seeks oracles from the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.”
This verse clearly forbids consulting or contacting the deceased, engaging in divination, or seeking supernatural knowledge from mediums or necromancers. It also makes it clear that this would be an active choice for the person, and does not suppose a sort of haunting deceased spirit. Judaism views such necromancy as incompatible with worshipping God.
In the Oral Torah and mystical traditions, there are references to various supernatural entities, such as demons and malevolent spirits. A non-exhaustive list of these entities include:
- Shedim: Shedim are demonic spirits or malevolent beings often associated with wilderness areas, abandoned buildings. They are mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in Psalms 106:37, where they are connected to idol worship.
- Nazikin: Nazikin (literally ‘damagers’) are malevolent spirits or destructive forces believed to cause harm or misfortune. They are referenced in the Talmud literature such as the Gemara in Brachot.
- Azazel: Azazel, according to Ramban a sort of demon known for his involvement in the events of the scapegoat offering at Yom Kippur.
- Dybbuks: The concept of a dybbuk comes from Jewish folklore and refers to a wandering, malicious soul that can possess a living person. This idea gained popularity in Eastern European Jewish traditions.
While these supernatural beliefs exist in Jewish folklore, they are not part of mainstream Jewish theology or doctrine. Rabbinic authorities often discourage delving into mystical practices and encourage a focus on studying and adhering to the commandments of the Torah. The nature of these demons is to cause harm, so one should not persue them.
In summary, while some Jewish communities and individuals may believe in demons and ghosts, such beliefs are not central to mainstream Judaism. Such demons are not punishers per se who exact judgement for bad deeds but are chaotic forces that do harm to anyone. The Torah explicitly prohibits contacting the deceased or engaging in occult practices, emphasizing the worship of one God and the observance of God’s commandments as the core of Jewish faith. As with many religions, beliefs can vary widely among different adherents and cultural traditions within Judaism.
