The Devil is in the Details

A Common Idiom

A common idiom used in American culture (and a few others) is: “The Devil is in the details.” Interestingly, this idiom has changed greatly from its original meaning, being a derivative of the idiom “God is in the details” which was a positive description of the great intricacy of creation. Its meaning today, however, has become a negative, implying that if one ignores the details, difficulty or problems are likely to occur.

In its most common form this phrase is used as a warning for those engaging in complex projects, perhaps as an admonishment for great care in the manufacture of a product or the signing of a contract. The use of “the devil” describes a nefarious intent on the part of those later using the product or offering the contract to “trap” the individual by some finer point of detail, or to bring about a lawsuit due to an unforeseen consequence.

A Likely Origin

It is likely that the usage of “the devil” comes from the Biblical story of the Fall of Man. It would appear that many see Satan as a greatly witted tempter that brought down an unsuspecting woman and man through manipulation of the “details.” Of course, Satan is indeed greatly witted and a master manipulator, being the “father of lies” (John 8:44, NASU), and a dangerous “roaring lion” (1 Pet. 5:8). But is it correct to say that Satan brought down woman and man on a technicality?

The truth is, while Satan did lie to Eve (e.g. “you surely will not die” (Gen. 3:4), was Eve overcome by “legaleeze” or blinded by some unforeseen detail? In actuality, she already had all the knowledge she needed, offered by God Himself when He warned “you shall not eat from” the tree (Gen. 3:3). Here we find the uncomfortable truth about temptation and sin: while trickery may exist, we still make a real choice. While we are enticed by our lusts (James 1:14), we are never without God’s plain warning against sin.

Not An Excuse

This idiom seems to suggest that despite our best efforts, it is very possible to be taken by some missed detail in our lives. Within our secular enterprises this may be true, partly due to the uncertainties of life and the sometimes bizarre choices of man. But before our God, the “details” are all covered perfectly. Satan only helps us to trick ourselves.