Sea spirits is a phrase used in some expressions of the charismatic faith, and is associated with beliefs related to demonic oppression and possession. So-called deliverance ministries may seek to exorcise “sea spirits” and other types of evil spirits they speculate about.
In most cases, sea spirit is understood as a generic term rather than a reference to a single, named demon. In this way, the term is different from other supposed oppressive spirits, which can be given individual names such as Jezebel, Leviathan, Absalom, Python, etc. Even so, leviathan and python spirits are sometimes grouped together as “water spirits” or “sea spirits.” Other names sometimes associated with this class are Rahab and even Merman or Mermaid.
Those who teach the existence of a special class of “sea spirits” trace the origin of these demons to the great flood of Noah’s day. Supposedly, “sea spirits” live in water and are not comfortable being dry—Jesus’ reference to “dry places” in Luke 11:24 is used as supporting proof text. Also, the Legion that Jesus exorcised from the man in the tombs were “sea spirits” because they caused pigs to jump into the sea ( Luke 8:26–33 ). A “sea spirit,” according to tradition, often comes as a succubus or incubus to make a person a “spiritual spouse”; and are sometimes called “husband spirits” or “wife spirits.” Its effect is sexual lust and perversion.
The belief in “sea spirits” is based on extrabiblical information, so there is an extraordinary variety of teachings about what a “sea spirit” is and what it does. Any deliverance ministry or demon chaser might have one set of beliefs about “sea spirits” that differ from another. It is difficult to find consistent teachings about “sea spirits” or other types of demons within the charismatic movement.
The Scriptures give no reason to believe that there is a specific class of demon called a “sea spirit” or that Christians today have any specific ability to rebuke or exorcise them. Whether or not any demonic entity is directly involved in a person’s struggle with lust, the Bible never addresses the concept of a “sea spirit.” The remedy for lust and other besetting sins is not to rebuke a “marine spirit,” but to pray, seek discipleship, and submit oneself in obedience to God ( James 4:7 ). It is no use blaming mermaids, talking to evil spirits or inventing a new mythology.
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