proverb · Words worth keeping
Even the devil needs a friend.
Even the devil needs a friend.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Even the devil needing a friend extends the value of companionship to a figure usually treated as hostile. The saying exaggerates how widely a need for connection may reach.
What the words are saying
The spiritual figure is an image rather than a verified being or a universal psychological finding. A useful reading can recognise humanity without requiring anyone to befriend a harmful person. Compassion can coexist with boundaries and accountability.
Everyday example
Someone recognises another person’s isolation while declining a relationship that would expose them to harm.
When to use it
Use it to discuss companionship with boundaries intact.
What it does not mean
No duty to befriend a harmful person or supernatural fact is established.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
India
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference (2014 AD)
Supplied reference B; unit 377; PDF page 37; collection label: India
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- India