The Infernal Genesis: Where Do Devils Come From in D&D?
The devils of Dungeons & Dragons are not simply random creatures of evil. They have a defined origin and a complex hierarchy that dictates their existence. In essence, devils originate from the Nine Hells of Baator, a plane of existence that embodies Lawful Evil. They are the embodiment of structured, malicious power, a direct contrast to the chaotic nature of demons. But their story is deeper than just a place of origin; it involves a specific cosmology, a path of transformation, and an eternal struggle.
Devils are not born in the way that mortals are. They are predominantly created through one of two primary means: by the souls of the damned being transformed or by the deliberate creation of higher devils. It’s a process that is intertwined with the very nature of their plane of existence and their rigid hierarchical structure. Souls that descend into Baator often undergo a process of corruption and transformation, morphing into the lower ranks of the infernal hierarchy, such as lemures. This process perpetuates the devil population and reinforces the power structure of the Nine Hells.
The more powerful devils, like pit fiends, can also create lesser devils, imbuing them with a portion of their essence and aligning them with their own ambition. This ensures the propagation of the infernal legions and provides a constant supply of pawns for the endless machinations within the Nine Hells. Unlike demons, which are often a chaotic horde, devils are organized, strategic, and their creation is rarely left to chance.
It’s important to understand the role of the Fugue Plane in this cycle. When mortals die, their souls are sent to the Fugue Plane, where their lives are reviewed. If they worshipped a deity and followed their doctrine, they might be taken to their god’s homeplane. However, devils, particularly those sent from Baator, are present to recruit and corrupt souls, drawing them down into the Nine Hells. Thus, the journey of a soul after death is critical in the creation process of devils.
The nature of a devil’s existence also stems from the Great Wheel cosmology that is often canon in D&D. Devils are not simply creatures of evil; they are a product of the interplay between the various planes of existence, particularly the clash between law and chaos, and good and evil. Their lawful nature means they are not aimless destroyers, but rather they adhere to a strict code and hierarchy, making their existence a calculated endeavor in the pursuit of power and domination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Devils in D&D
What is the difference between devils and demons in D&D?
The primary difference lies in their alignment and nature. Devils are Lawful Evil, residing in the Nine Hells of Baator. They are highly organized, hierarchical, and seek to corrupt and control others through contracts and schemes. Demons, on the other hand, are Chaotic Evil, originating from the Abyss. They are chaotic, destructive, and focused on unrestrained power and destruction.
How does a mortal become a devil?
A mortal soul can become a devil if it is corrupted in the Fugue Plane or if it descends into the Nine Hells. Souls can be transformed into lower devils such as lemures. These souls are then compelled to climb the hierarchical ladder of Baator by service, cunning, and betrayal.
What is the hierarchy of devils?
Devils adhere to a strict hierarchy, with the most powerful at the top, such as Archdevils and Asmodeus, who rules the entire Nine Hells. Below them are various ranks of devils, such as pit fiends, erinyes, horned devils, down to the lowest forms of devils like lemures. Devils gain power and ascend the hierarchy through scheming, treachery, and service to their superiors.
Can devils die permanently?
Devils are traditionally immortal, and killing them outside the Nine Hells is not a permanent solution. A devil slain outside Baator will eventually reform within the hells. To truly kill a devil, one must kill them within their home plane, or with specific weapons or magic that can destroy their essence.
Do devils eat?
While devils do not need to consume anything to survive, they can ingest food, with a preference for meat. They also gain sustenance from life itself, through the devouring of a living being’s spark.
What language do devils speak?
Devils primarily speak Infernal, which is often associated with the language of fiends. Some devils might also speak other languages, depending on their interactions with other creatures.
What are devils immune to?
Devils are typically immune to fire and poison and are resistant to cold (except Ice Devils, which are immune). They are also often resistant to magical effects and physical damage from non-silvered weapons.
How do devils get souls?
Devils harvest souls in the Nine Hells as they wash up on the banks of the river Styx. This process is often a labor performed by the lower ranks of devils, who then deliver them to their superiors in exchange for favor. Souls are also acquired through pacts and contracts made with mortals.
What kind of pacts do devils make?
Devils offer power, wealth, knowledge, or other desires in exchange for a mortal’s soul. These pacts are usually binding and often lead to a dark end for the mortal involved, as devils are masters of manipulation and deceit.
What is the role of the river Styx?
The river Styx is a significant feature of the lower planes, particularly the Nine Hells. It is a soul-laden river that washes up damned souls onto the shores of Baator, ready for harvest by devils. Its waters also have the power to strip memories and personalities, which plays a role in the corruption of souls.
What is the weakest devil?
The lemure is the weakest and lowest form of devil in D&D. It is a shapeless mass of tortured flesh, barely possessing any intelligence or agency, usually the product of a damned soul transformed.
Who is the most powerful devil?
Asmodeus is generally considered the most powerful devil, the supreme ruler of the Nine Hells. He is a master strategist and manipulator, with immense power and influence over all of Baator.
Can devils be good?
Devils are inherently Lawful Evil. While some may exhibit moments of restraint or utilize “fair” contracts, they will always be bound by their inherent nature to uphold their contracts and to prioritize evil ends. Devils cannot truly be good in the traditional sense of the word within D&D canon.
How do devils fit into the Great Wheel cosmology?
Devils are a crucial part of the Great Wheel cosmology of D&D, representing the force of Lawful Evil. They provide a contrast to demons, who represent Chaotic Evil, and their existence helps define the cosmic balance of good, evil, law, and chaos.
What happens if a devil’s blood touches a mortal?
Devil’s blood, often described as a black ichor, has different properties depending on the plane. On the lower planes, it is said to have transformative properties, and can change a creature’s physical characteristics if it comes into contact with them.