According to tradition, Samael is often considered the demon or angel of death.
Samael holds a prominent and complex position in Jewish folklore and esoteric traditions. He is often portrayed as a powerful angel with both good and evil attributes, rather than a purely demonic entity. However, he is also frequently associated with death and destruction.
Here's a breakdown of Samael's roles and associations:
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Angel of Death: Samael is commonly identified as the angel of death in rabbinic literature and Kabbalah. He is believed to be the one who takes souls at the time of death.
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King of Demons: He is sometimes described as the king of all demons, indicating his high rank in the demonic hierarchy.
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Husband of Lilith: Tradition often portrays Samael as the husband of Lilith, a female demon associated with chaos and seduction.
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Adversary of Michael: Samael is considered the archenemy of Michael the archangel, symbolizing the ongoing battle between good and evil.
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Association with Mars, etc.: Further associations connect him to the planet Mars, the left side, the north, and Tuesday, each adding layers to his symbolic representation.
It is essential to note that the concept of "demon" can vary significantly across different cultures and religions. In the context of Samael, his role as the angel of death is complex and intertwined with aspects of divine judgment and the natural cycle of life and death.