Ahriman is a spiritual being who represents forces of materialism, cold intellect, and control over the physical world. Named after the ancient Persian spirit of darkness, Ahriman is a being, but also a force or tendency (impulse) that pulls us toward overly rigid, mechanical thinking and a focus solely on material things. Ahriman encourages us to see the world as purely physical, valuing only things we can measure, calculate, or control. This way of thinking can lead to a disconnection from the natural world, from other people, and from our spiritual lives.
Rudolf Steiner, the initiator of anthroposophy, explained that Ahriman’s influence isn’t necessarily “evil,” but it does lead us away from a balanced view of life. Ahriman’s energy can be helpful in certain areas, like developing science and technology, but it can be harmful if it becomes our only way of seeing the world. To live a healthy, balanced life, it’s important to be aware of this tendency and not let it take over.
The Ahrimanic impulse is the force that encourages humanity to focus on materialism, logic, and efficiency over spirituality, creativity, and empathy. This impulse is powerful in modern times, as we see in the rise of technology, science, and productivity-centered culture. The Ahrimanic impulse doesn’t encourage spiritual growth or imagination; instead, it leads us to depend on external systems, numbers, and machines to solve problems.
This impulse can create a society where people prioritize material success, comfort, and power while forgetting to nurture their inner lives or their connections to each other and the world. Over time, the Ahrimanic impulse can lead to a sense of emptiness, as people may feel that something is missing even when their lives are full of material comforts.
We’re not trying to get rid of Ahriman, but bring that impulse in harmony with the opposite impulse (Lucifer) and become truly balanced. “Getting rid” of either impulse puts everything out of balance in a very big way.
