Religious leaders often speak about morality, good versus evil, and the battle between light and darkness.
But every now and then, their statements about evil leave people stunned, confused, or downright furious, believer or not. Whether it’s outdated views, bizarre justifications, or extreme takes on what constitutes “evil,” some of these remarks have sparked major controversy, and for good reason. These are just a few of the eyebrow-raising comments religious leaders made about evil that are questionable at best and downright ridiculous at worst.
1. Blaming natural disasters on “sin”
Whenever a natural disaster strikes, some religious figures have been quick to declare it as “God’s punishment” for human wrongdoing. Whether it’s hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires, there have been multiple instances where leaders have blamed them on everything from same-sex marriage to declining church attendance. That kind of reasoning has often been met with backlash, as it ignores the scientific explanations behind these events and, more importantly, the suffering of innocent people. Many religious followers themselves have distanced themselves from these statements, recognising them as outdated fear tactics rather than legitimate theology.
2. Claiming certain groups of people are inherently evil
Some religious leaders have taken it upon themselves to declare entire groups of people as evil, based purely on personal beliefs rather than any actual wrongdoing. Throughout history, this has been used against different races, communities, and minority groups, often leading to division rather than understanding. While most modern religious teachings promote love and inclusion, there are still figures who push the idea that certain people are “bad” just for existing as they are. Such selective moral judgement has often left people questioning whether such statements truly reflect the core teachings of faith.
3. Suggesting women are responsible for “tempting” men into sin
There have been numerous times when religious figures have suggested that women are to blame for men’s moral failings, whether it’s through the way they dress, the way they behave, or simply for existing in certain spaces. Some have even claimed that women should cover up or be more modest to prevent leading men into temptation. Unsurprisingly, this been widely criticised, as it shifts responsibility away from men and places unfair expectations on women. Rather than promoting self-control and personal accountability, it creates a culture where blame is unfairly distributed based on gender.
4. Using the concept of evil to silence criticism
Whenever a religious institution is questioned — whether it’s about corruption, abuse scandals, or outdated teachings — some leaders have been known to deflect criticism by calling their opponents “evil” or “agents of the devil.” Instead of addressing real concerns, they frame any scrutiny as a spiritual attack. It’s led to serious issues being swept under the rug, with legitimate whistleblowers being cast as villains rather than people trying to uncover the truth. Many followers have started pushing back against this tactic, demanding accountability rather than blind obedience.
5. Saying mental illness is caused by “evil spirits”
There are still religious leaders today who suggest that mental health issues are the result of demonic possession rather than medical conditions that require treatment. Instead of encouraging therapy, medication, or scientific approaches, they insist that exorcisms, prayer, or stronger faith are the only solutions. This view has been incredibly damaging to those struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. By dismissing real medical explanations, it has stopped people from seeking the support they need, leaving them feeling isolated and ashamed.
6. Justifying violence in the name of righteousness
Throughout history, some religious leaders have encouraged violence under the belief that it was justified in fighting “evil.” Whether it’s holy wars, persecution, or even modern extremist groups using faith to justify attacks, the idea has been misused in ways that contradict the very teachings of peace and love. Most religious traditions actually preach against violence, yet there are always figures who twist scripture to fit their own agendas. These statements have been widely condemned, especially by religious communities that believe faith should be about compassion, not conflict.
7. Claiming wealth is a sign of God’s favour
Some modern religious leaders, particularly those in prosperity gospel movements, have preached that financial success is proof of God’s blessing, while poverty is linked to a lack of faith. This belief has led many followers to donate huge amounts of money to churches in the hope of receiving some sort of divine rewards. Obviously, this completely misinterprets religious teachings, as many faiths emphasise humility, charity, and helping the less fortunate rather than glorifying wealth. The idea that God rewards good people with money has often been used to exploit vulnerable people seeking hope.
8. Saying that suffering is a “test of faith”
While it’s true that many religious traditions talk about enduring hardships, some leaders have taken this to an extreme, telling people in abusive relationships, struggling with illness, or going through personal hardships that their suffering is “God’s will,” and that they should endure it rather than get help. It’s led to people staying in dangerous situations because they were made to believe that leaving would be failing their faith. Many now push back against this idea, recognising that faith should be a source of strength, not a reason to tolerate mistreatment.
9. Demonising modern science and medicine
From vaccines to climate change, some religious figures have taken a hard stance against modern scientific advancements, claiming they go against God’s plan. This has been particularly concerning when it comes to health, as some leaders have discouraged medical treatment in favour of faith-based healing. While faith can be a powerful source of comfort, ignoring science has led to preventable deaths, outbreaks of disease, and a general mistrust in healthcare. Many religious groups have spoken out against this mindset, reminding people that science and faith don’t have to be at odds.
10. Using the fear of hell to control behaviour
Fear has long been used as a tool to keep people in line, with some leaders placing a heavy emphasis on hell and eternal punishment. Instead of teaching faith through love and personal growth, they focus on what not to do in order to avoid damnation. While discussions about right and wrong are part of religious teaching, many argue that faith should be about more than just avoiding punishment. It’s led some people to leave religion entirely, feeling like it was based more on fear than genuine belief.
11. Linking personal tragedies to a lack of faith
Some religious leaders have suggested that bad things happen to people because they weren’t faithful enough, whether it’s an illness, financial troubles, or family issues. That kind of thinking can be incredibly damaging, as it makes people feel personally responsible for circumstances beyond their control. It also ignores the reality that suffering is a universal human experience, not something that happens exclusively to those who aren’t faithful enough. Many religious communities now work to shift the focus toward support and compassion rather than blame.
12. Calling modern lifestyles “evil”
From social media to fashion trends, some religious figures have labelled many aspects of modern life as “evil” or “corrupting.” Instead of adapting faith to modern times, they take a rigid stance, claiming that anything new is automatically bad. While it’s fair to critique some aspects of modern culture, demonising everything that isn’t traditional often alienates younger generations, making faith feel out of touch rather than relevant to today’s world.
13. Suggesting that doubt is dangerous
Many religious leaders teach that questioning faith is wrong, warning people against exploring different perspectives. Some even suggest that doubt is Satan’s way of leading people astray, making people feel guilty for simply thinking critically. However, doubt is a normal part of spiritual growth. Many religious scholars encourage questions, seeing them as a way to deepen faith rather than destroy it. The idea that curiosity is dangerous has led some people to leave religion altogether, feeling like they weren’t allowed to explore their beliefs fully.
14. Justifying discrimination as “God’s will”
One of the most controversial things some religious leaders have done is use faith to justify discrimination — whether it’s against women, LGBTQIA+ people, or other marginalised groups. Instead of embracing the core values of love and acceptance, they claim that exclusion is divinely ordered. Many religious communities now challenge this narrative, reminding people that faith should be about kindness, not division. More and more people are pushing back against leaders who use religion as an excuse for intolerance rather than a source of compassion.
