From Perplexity
The Greek idea of "daimon" originally referred to a lesser deity or guiding spirit, and it was an occult power that drives human destiny. Daimons were possibly seen as the souls of men of the golden age acting as tutelary deities. The concept evolved to include the belief that a special daimon is associated with an individual from birth, ruling over them through life and guiding their soul as they depart for Hades. The daimon was considered an intermediate power of a divine order, and it was analogous to the guardian angel of Christians. It could manifest as an attendant power or spirit, and it was capable, through ecstasy, of becoming one with the universal spirit. The daimon was also associated with Socrates, who spoke often of his "internal oracle" or daimonion, which gave him guidance and warnings. The word "daimon" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European "daimon," meaning "provider, divider (of fortunes or destinies)."