Is there such a thing as a succubus or an incubus? What is a succubus? What is an incubus?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Succubi and incubi are mythological demons, believed to engage in sexual activities with humans while they sleep, with succubi being female and incubi male. These entities are often associated with folklore and medieval superstition, symbolizing the fears and anxieties surrounding sexuality and temptation. The Bible doesn't directly mention succubi or incubi. Scripture does speak plenty about spiritual warfare and demonic influences. Believers are called to be vigilant against spiritual attacks (1 Peter 5:8) and to rely on God's strength for protection (Ephesians 6:10–18). The Bible also teaches that God has authority over all spiritual forces (Colossians 2:15) and that believers are protected by Christ's redemptive work (Colossians 1:13–14). While acknowledging the reality of spiritual battles, Scripture emphasizes the supremacy of God's power and the importance of focusing on Him, rather than on demonic entities.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Genesis 6:1–4: "The sons of God came in to the daughters of man and they bore children to them" (v. 4). This passage has been interpreted by some as referring to demons interacting with humans, though interpretations vary.
• Deuteronomy 32:17: "They sacrificed to demons that were no gods, to gods they had never known." This verse acknowledges the existence of demons while emphasizing their powerlessness compared to God.
• Zechariah 13:2: "And on that day, declares the LORD of hosts, I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, so that they shall be remembered no more." This prophecy speaks of God's ultimate victory over false gods and demonic influences.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Ephesians 6:12: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Paul acknowledges the reality of spiritual warfare.
• First Peter 5:8: "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This verse warns believers to be vigilant against spiritual attacks.
• Colossians 1:13–14: "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Paul emphasizes Christ's victory over dark spiritual forces.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

While the specific entities, succubus and incubus, aren't mentioned in Scripture, the Bible's teachings on spiritual warfare should provide guidance for believers. We must be aware of the reality of spiritual battles without being overly focused on or fearful of demonic entities. Instead, our trust is to be in God's protection and Christ's victory over all spiritual forces. Many historical accounts of succubi or incubi may have been misinterpretations of natural phenomena, like sleep paralysis, or attempts to explain traumatic experiences. Christians should approach such claims with critical thinking, grounded in biblical wisdom. While the spiritual realm is quite real, Christians can find comfort in knowing that God's power far exceeds any demonic influence.

UNDERSTAND

• Succubi and incubi are demons from folklore, associated with sexual activity during sleep.
• The Bible does not mention these entities but warns against demonic influences and emphasizes God's protection.
• Believers are called to recognize spiritual battles while trusting in God's authority and power over all spiritual forces.

REFLECT

• How can you be more vigilant in your spiritual life to recognize and resist any negative influences or temptations?
• How can you deepen your trust in God's protection when facing fears or anxieties related to spiritual battles?
• How do you respond to feelings of fear or uncertainty about the spiritual realm, and what biblical truths can you lean on for comfort?

ENGAGE

• How do cultural perceptions of succubi and incubi reflect our understanding of human sexuality and temptation throughout history?
• What parallels can we draw between the concept of succubi/incubi and other spiritual entities mentioned in the Bible?
• How can the teachings on spiritual warfare in the New Testament inform our faith, especially in light of spiritual warfare?