Elaine Pagels, the distinguished historian of religion at Princeton University, explores the evolution of Satan in the New Testament in her groundbreaking book, "The Origin of Satan." She delves into how Satan transforms from a mere obstructive figure in the Hebrew Bible to the Prince of Darkness and the embodiment of evil in the New Testament.

Pagels highlights the contrast in the narratives presented in the four Christian gospels. One narrative focuses on Jesus' teachings of love, forgiveness, and redemption, showcasing his moral genius. The other narrative details the fierce conflict between the followers of Jesus and their Jewish counterparts, as the gospel writers condemn those Jews who do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah as followers of Satan.

During and after the Jewish war against Rome, the evangelists used Satan to vilify their Jewish adversaries as enemies of God. Pagels reveals how the church later expanded this notion to label pagans, infidels, and even dissenters within the Christian community as servants of Satan, attributing their beliefs to demonic influences.

Through her analysis, Pagels exposes how the concept of Satan was manipulated to demonize various groups throughout history. From Jewish opponents to Roman enemies to internal dissenters, the figure of Satan has been invoked to justify persecution and ostracism. In "The Origin of Satan," Pagels sheds light on the dark history of how the concept of evil has been weaponized to serve the interests of those in power.

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