Satan – The Original Narcissist

Angela Startz, MAHSC, CMCLC
Jul 18
4 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Following Archangel Michael’s example, it is with as much humility as I can muster that I write this post. “But when [even] the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, judicially argued (disputed) about the body of Moses, he dared not [presume to] bring an abusive condemnation against him, but [simply] said, The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9, AMPC) So, rather than airing my opinions, I will stick to the DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria as cited by Zimmerman & Kahn (2023) and the Scriptures.

Diagnostic Criteria

Patients must have a persistent pattern of:

· Grandiosity

· Need for admiration

· Lack of empathy

This pattern is shown by the presence of ≥ 5 of the following:

· An exaggerated, unfounded sense of their own importance and talents (grandiosity)

· Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited achievements, influence, power, intelligence, beauty, or perfect love

· Belief that they are special and unique and should be associated only with people of the highest caliber

· A need to be unconditionally admired

· A sense of entitlement

· Exploitation of others to achieve their own goals

· A lack of empathy

· Envy of others and a belief that others envy them

· Arrogance and haughtiness

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Biblical Examples of Satan Exhibiting Narcissistic Qualities

Pride and Self-Exaltation
- Explanation: Satan’s rebellion against God stems from his desire to elevate himself above God, a hallmark of narcissistic grandiosity. In Isaiah 14:12-15, often interpreted as describing Satan’s fall (though contextually about the king of Babylon), he is depicted as seeking to “make [himself] like the Most High” and ascend above God’s throne. This reflects an inflated sense of self-importance and a refusal to submit to authority.
- Satan’s prideful ambition to usurp God’s position is a clear narcissistic trait.
Desire for Worship and Admiration
- Explanation: Satan seeks worship and adoration, a key narcissistic trait. In Matthew 4:8-9, he tempts Jesus by offering Him all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship, revealing his craving for the glory and allegiance that belong to God alone. This demand for worship shows his need for validation and control.
- This attempt to divert worship from God to himself mirrors narcissistic entitlement and a need for admiration.
Manipulation and Deception
- Explanation: Satan is described as the “father of lies” (John 8:44), using deception to manipulate others for his purposes, a common narcissistic tactic. In Genesis 3:1-5, he manipulates Eve by questioning God’s command and promising godlike knowledge, exploiting her trust to achieve his goal of rebellion against God. This lack of empathy and willingness to deceive align with narcissistic behavior.
- These verses show Satan’s manipulative nature, using lies to control and disrupt.
Lack of Empathy
- Explanation: Satan’s actions demonstrate a disregard for others’ well-being, a key narcissistic trait. His temptation of Job (Job 1:6-12, 2:1-6) shows a willingness to inflict suffering to prove a point against God, with no concern for Job’s pain. His aim is to challenge God’s authority, not to care for those he affects.
- This callous manipulation of Job’s life reflects a lack of empathy typical of narcissism.

Satan exhibits clear narcissistic qualities—pride, a desire for worship, manipulation, and lack of empathy—supported by Scriptures like Isaiah 14:12-15, Matthew 4:8-9, Genesis 3:1-5, John 8:44, and Job 1:9-11. His actions reflect a self-centered rebellion against God and a willingness to harm others to achieve his ends. While some might argue his behavior is purely theological, the patterns of pride, deception, and control strongly resemble narcissistic traits.

Why Is this Important?

When we are dealing with a narcissist, we are engaging in spiritual warfare. “For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere” (Ephesians 6:12).

Guidance for Dealing with Satan’s Influence

The Bible provides guidance for resisting Satan’s manipulative tactics, which align with handling narcissistic behavior:

· James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

o Application: Stay grounded in God’s truth and authority to counter deception.

· Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

o Application: Equip yourself with faith, truth, and prayer to resist manipulation.

· Matthew 7:6 – “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”

o Application: Protect your emotional and spiritual treasures (e.g., trust, vulnerability) by not sharing them with those who will exploit or devalue them. Discern when to withhold personal investment from manipulative individuals.

If you need guidance and support dealing with the narcissist in your life, Called2Rise can help.

Angela W Startz, MAHSC, CCLC

Mental Health & Relationship Coach

Called2Rise LLC

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