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Lucifer

philosophy religion Maturity 11-13 religion mythology Next article →

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Lucifer is a name with many old stories.

Lucifer (the morning star). Engraving by G.H. Frezza, 1704, Wellcome V0035916
Lucifer (the morning star). Engraving by G.H. Frezza, 1704, Wellcome V0035916

In ancient Rome, it was the name for the planet Venus. The name means "light-bringer" in Latin. People saw the planet as a star that brings the dawn.

Mercury, Venus and the Moon Align
Mercury, Venus and the Moon Align

Many people have different ideas about this name. In Christian beliefs, Lucifer is often called a fallen angel. Some think he tried to take the place of God. This was caused by pride. Because of this, he was cast down from heaven.

Alexandre Cabanel - Fallen Angel
Alexandre Cabanel - Fallen Angel

Some writers use this story to describe the devil.

Other cultures have similar stories. In Canaanite religion, a figure tried to take a throne. He failed and went to the underworld. This idea is like the movement of the planet Venus. The bright morning star rises, but then the sun fades it away.

Some groups see Lucifer in new ways. Some people see him as a bringer of freedom. Different faiths have many different views. It is a name that connects the stars to old myths.

Lucifer from Petrus de Plasiis Divine Comedy 1491
Lucifer from Petrus de Plasiis Divine Comedy 1491
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🖼️ Images & Media (7)
File:Alexandre_Cabanel_-_Fallen_Angel.jpg
Alexandre_Cabanel_-_Fallen_Angel.jpg
File:Lucifer (the morning star). Engraving by G.H. Frezza, 1704, Wellcome V0035916.jpg
Lucifer (the morning star). Engraving by...
File:Mercury, Venus and the Moon Align.jpg
Mercury, Venus and the Moon Align.jpg
File:Lucifer Liege Luc Viatour new.jpg
Lucifer Liege Luc Viatour new.jpg
File:Lucifer from Petrus de Plasiis Divine Comedy 1491.png
Lucifer from Petrus de Plasiis Divine...
File:Lucifer3.jpg
Lucifer3.jpg
File:Cathedral Fribourg vitrail Georg Michael Anna Maria 04.jpg
Cathedral Fribourg vitrail Georg Michael...
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