Even the devil needs a friend.
Even the devil needs a friend.
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.
Example
Someone recognises another person’s isolation while declining a relationship that would expose them to harm.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
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.
When to use it
Use it to discuss companionship with boundaries intact.
Keep in mind
No duty to befriend a harmful person or supernatural fact is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Country attributed by the collection
India · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 377; PDF page 37; collection label: India
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗
Word-matched topics