What is a python spirit?

Answer

Python spirit or spirit of Python is one of many terms associated with a particular set of views related to the demonic world. According to some Charismatics, demons are the cause of almost every problem we face—and these demons are categorized and named. Such an approach to the spiritual world forms the theory behind so-called deliverance ministries, which seek to identify and exorcise evil spirits. By taking vague references to certain scriptural words badly out of context, some have invented an entire mythology of spiritual warfare, complete with a menagerie of unique demonic entities that wreak havoc in the world.

Those who believe in a Python spirit point to Acts 16:16, where Scripture refers to a slave girl who had “a spirit of divination.” The Greek term for “divination” in this verse is pythōna. The origin of the Greek word is rooted in Greek mythology, which includes the story of Apollo slaying a serpent or dragon that dwelt in the region of Pytho and was said to have guarded the oracle of Delphi. It seems the local residents of Philippi in Acts 16 said this slave girl gained her powers through “a spirit of Python,” associating the mythological serpent with oracles in general. Paul freed this girl of the demon «And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. », (Acts 16:18), angering the men taking advantage of her and leading to a lawsuit (Acts 16:19-21).

Taking the account in Acts 16 and the locals’ mythological term for the demon inhabiting the fortune-teller, some extrapolate that there is a specific demonic entity—the “Python spirit” or the “spirit of Python”—that oppresses people.

Some people believe that the “python spirit” disrupts the communication of the Holy Spirit and hinders prayer. Others suggest that this spirit gathers information about believers to summon other demons for attacking individuals, churches, or cities.

Certain teachings describe the “spirit of python” as one that “squeezes” believers, causing feelings of unhappiness, depression, or defeat. In some Charismatic circles, additional names and concepts are associated with this “python spirit,” such as having four faces and being identified as Jezebel or Absalom. Moreover, there are various opinions on how this demon manifests, with some linking it to greed, fear, or physical ailments.

Alternatively, some use the term “python spirit” in a more general sense, without attributing it to a specific entity or intelligent being.

It is worth noting the diversity of beliefs regarding the nature and actions of a “python spirit.” This diversity is a common characteristic of “deliverance ministries.” These beliefs often lack substantial scriptural support, leading to widespread speculation and a lack of coherent or consistent teachings on the “python spirit” and other demons. The characteristics attributed to the “spirit of python” by one individual may significantly overlap with those of other spirits, such as Leviathan, Kundalini, or “water spirits.”

Scripture does not provide any basis for the existence of a specific spirit named Python. It is imprudent to assume the presence of a particular type of demon based on the name of a mythological creature. Furthermore, the Bible does not instruct believers on rebuking or exorcising specific demons, as there are no exorcism guidelines in the Bible. While a demonic entity may be involved in a person’s spiritual or physical struggles, the solution does not lie in creating demonologies, introducing new terminology, or speculating on God’s Word. The true solutions to spiritual challenges are found in prayer, discernment, and a deepening relationship with God.

Discipleship, and submission to God, refer to James 4:7.