Satan Calling Up his Legions
- Artist
- William Blake
- Date
- 1804
- Style
- Symbolism
- Genre
- Religious painting
- Location
- Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A)
"Satan Calling Up his Legions" is a potent example of a religious painting, filled with dark, dramatic symbolism. The piece represents Satan, a central figure among Abrahamic religions, calling forth his demonic legions. Embodied as a fallen angel or jinn who defied God, Satan is depicted harnessing his temporary power, stirring up his evil host with might. The scene brings to mind Iblis (Shaitan), the Quranic leader of the devils (shayāṭīn), who was cast out of Heaven for refusing to honor Adam. The painting also represents Satan's ability to incite human sin, subtly implying the concept of waswās, or infecting human minds with malicious whispers.
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