The TV show Lucifer captivated audiences with its unique take on the Devil. The titular character, played by Tom Ellis, is not just the ruler of Hell but a complex being seeking identity, purpose, and, ultimately, redemption. One of the most striking elements of the show is Lucifer’s past name—Samael.

“I don’t go by that name anymore,” he states, distancing himself from his former identity. This single line encapsulates his journey. But who was Samael before he became Lucifer, and how do different religious traditions view him?

Samael: The Punisher, Not the Evil One

In some Jewish traditions, Samael is not purely evil. Unlike the Christian interpretation of Satan as the ultimate embodiment of sin, Jewish mysticism sees Samael as an accuser, punisher, and adversary—not to good but to evil itself. He is an angel of judgment, responsible for carrying out divine justice. While his methods may seem harsh, his role is necessary in maintaining cosmic balance.

This perspective differs greatly from Christian theology, where Satan is the adversary of God, the deceiver, and the embodiment of all that is sinful. In Christianity, Lucifer’s fall represents complete separation from God, an act of rebellion fueled by pride. But in Jewish thought, Samael serves a function rather than existing as a purely malevolent force.

The Fall and the Transformation into Lucifer

The shift from Samael to Lucifer signifies more than just a name change. In Lucifer, he chooses to abandon his past identity. He is no longer the angel who executes divine justice—he is the fallen one, the ruler of Hell, cast down after rebelling. This mirrors the Christian narrative of Lucifer’s fall from grace. However, the show explores a unique angle: what if he could change? What if redemption was possible?

Can the Devil Be Redeemed?

Lucifer’s journey in the show is not just about power or punishment. It is about self-discovery and the possibility of transformation. His struggle with identity, morality, and love leads him toward redemption. If even the Devil can seek salvation, what does that mean for humanity?

The show suggests that redemption is a choice. It is not about erasing the past but about taking responsibility and striving to be better. If Lucifer, the ultimate sinner, can walk the path of redemption, then so can anyone willing to put in the effort.

Lucifer as the Scapegoat for Humanity’s Sins

One of the most interesting aspects of Lucifer is how he is blamed for humanity’s sins, even though free will dictates that each person makes their own choices. Throughout history, people have used Lucifer as a scapegoat for their own moral failings. Instead of acknowledging their own responsibility, they place the burden of their sins on the Devil.

In the show, Lucifer often expresses frustration at being held accountable for choices he did not force people to make. This reflects a broader theme in theology—humans possess free will, and sin is a result of their own decisions, not some external coercion. Yet, the Devil is frequently painted as the great tempter, leading people astray.

This portrayal of Lucifer aligns with certain religious perspectives that suggest he does not create evil but merely exposes it. He may test or challenge people, but ultimately, the responsibility lies with them. Lucifer the show highlights this idea, pushing the audience to question whether the Devil is truly responsible for all of humanity’s misdeeds or if people simply use him as an excuse.

The Ultimate Blueprint for Redemption

Ultimately, Lucifer is not just a story about the Devil—it is a blueprint for personal growth and change. No matter how far one has fallen, redemption is always within reach for those who seek it. The show drives home the point that taking accountability for one’s actions is the first step toward change. If even the Devil can find a path toward redemption, then so can anyone willing to put in the work.

Rather than blaming external forces, Lucifer challenges viewers to look inward. True transformation comes from accepting responsibility, making amends, and striving for personal growth. If Lucifer, once Samael, can evolve, then perhaps no one is beyond saving.