Hello, I'm an expert in religious studies and mythology. Let's delve into the character of Azazel.
Azazel is a figure that appears in various religious traditions, but is most notably known from Jewish and Christian demonology. In Jewish texts, particularly in the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Book of Enoch, Azazel is often depicted as a fallen angel or a leader of the rebellious "Watchers," a group of angels who are said to have descended to Earth and taught forbidden knowledge to humans.
In the context of the Yom Kippur ritual, as described in the Torah, Azazel is the name given to a
scapegoat that symbolically carries away the sins of the people. The high priest would lay his hands on this goat and confess the iniquities of the children of Israel, and then the goat would be sent into the wilderness, symbolically removing the sins.
In Christian demonology, Azazel is sometimes identified with Satan or one of the chief demons. He is often associated with sin, temptation, and the corruption of humankind.
It's important to note that the interpretation of Azazel can vary widely depending on the source and the religious context. Some modern interpretations, especially in popular culture, may take creative liberties with the character.
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