Exploring the Origins of Demonology and Magic

Demonology and magic are closely intertwined concepts that have been studied and explored throughout history. Demonology refers to the study and belief in demons, while magic encompasses the use of supernatural powers to influence or manipulate reality. In demons are viewed as malevolent and powerful beings that can cause harm and possess humans. Traditionally, demons have been seen as agents of evil and sources of chaos. Different cultures and religions have their own distinct beliefs about demons, including their origins, abilities, and desires. While some view demons as fallen angels or spirits of the deceased, others see them as entirely separate entities.

Religions. Special Issue “Witchcraft, Demonology and Magic” 612 (2019). doi: 10.3390/rel10110612

During the early modern era, the institution appointed to control the integrity of the faithful in the Italian peninsula was the Supreme Sacred Congregation of the Roman and Universal Inquisition, which had a significant number of local tribunals spread over the territory. Although they are fictitious, we conclude that such narratives reflect developments in real life, in which technology such as artificial intelligence is feared as an increasingly powerful, opaque force.

While some view demons as fallen angels or spirits of the deceased, others see them as entirely separate entities. Magic, on the other hand, involves the use of rituals, spells, and supernatural forces to achieve specific outcomes. It is the belief that one can harness and manipulate supernatural powers to affect reality.

Witchcraft, Demonology and Magic

This is an open call to invite papers for the Special Issue of "Religions", which deals with witchcraft, demonology and magic in their interactions with popular and institutional religion (preaching, inquisition, demonology, the role of monks and priests in performing occult sciences and ritual magic; religious images and elements, such as the sacramental bread, in witchcraft and magic rituals; ceremonial magic and Sabbat as an inversion of Catholic rituals).

Religions. Special Issue “Witchcraft, Demonology and Magic” 612 (2019). doi: 10.3390/rel10110612

Resorting to the supernatural to find something lost is a practice that can be observed over a very large range of times and places. With the affirmation of Christianity, these kinds of habits and beliefs were considered superstitious by the Church. During the early modern era, the institution appointed to control the integrity of the faithful in the Italian peninsula was the Supreme Sacred Congregation of the Roman and Universal Inquisition, which had a significant number of local tribunals spread over the territory. This essay aims to study the diffusion of the practice of finding treasures by using magical items and rituals in the area under the jurisdiction of the Sienese tribunal of the Holy Office (approximately the entire southern Tuscany), whose trial sources are preserved in the Archive of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (Vatican City). The research, based on around seventy individual cases, shows an interesting belief from a historical–anthropological point of view, namely: although in most cases people were looking for everyday objects that they had lost, sometimes, they used the same rituals to search for ancient treasures that they heard were buried or hidden in a particular place (church, field, or cellar), with the presence of guardians like spirits or demons, that had to be driven away with a prayer or an exorcism before taking possession of the treasure.

The Sacred & the Digital: Critical Depictions of Religions in Video Games

In the literature on religion in games, two broad types of religion have been depicted: on the one hand, historical religions—Christian, Muslim and Buddhist narratives, tropes and symbols—and, on the other hand, fiction-based religion, referring to fantasy, myth and popular culture. In this article we aim to describe, analyze and explain the emergence of a new, unacknowledged repertoire. Building on two case studies—Fallout 3 and Horizon: Zero Dawn—we argue that modern technology (computers, AI, VR, androids) itself is becoming a sacred object of veneration in fiction, specifically in post-apocalyptic games that imagine man-made annihilation. Although the themes and topics differ, this emergent form of techno-religion in game narratives is generally located in a post-apocalyptic setting. Although they are fictitious, we conclude that such narratives reflect developments in real life, in which technology such as artificial intelligence is feared as an increasingly powerful, opaque force.

A structured and partly annotated bibliography of religious non-conformism / dissent / heresy / heterodoxy and its repression in the history of Christianity (now around 750 standard pages) intended to update and supplement, among others, Grundmann, Herbert, Bibliographie zur Ketzergeschichte des Mittelalters (1900-1966), Rome 1967, and Berkhout, Carl T. – Russell, Jeffrey Burton, Medieval Heresies: A Bibliography 1960-1979, Toronto: Pontifical Institute of Mediaeval Studies 1981. All headings are now also in English; some annotations are in Czech.

This is an open call to invite papers for the Special Issue of "Religions", which deals with witchcraft, demonology and magic in their interactions with popular and institutional religion (preaching, inquisition, demonology, the role of monks and priests in performing occult sciences and ritual magic; religious images and elements, such as the sacramental bread, in witchcraft and magic rituals; ceremonial magic and Sabbat as an inversion of Catholic rituals).

Magic can take various forms, such as divination, spellcasting, and summoning spirits. Some practitioners of magic believe that it can be used for beneficial purposes, while others associate it with darker intentions. Throughout history, the study and practice of demonology and magic have often been condemned and suppressed, particularly by religious authorities. Many cultures and religions view these practices as dangerous, linked to the occult, and in opposition to divine power. However, there have also been individuals and societies who have embraced and studied demonology and magic, often for personal gain or spiritual exploration. In contemporary times, demonology and magic continue to be of interest to various groups and individuals. While some approach these subjects from a purely intellectual standpoint, others may believe in their practical application. There are also fictional depictions of demons and magic in literature, film, and other forms of media that continue to captivate and intrigue audiences. Overall, demonology and magic are intricate topics that delve into the supernatural and our understanding of the unseen forces in the world. These areas of study and practice have shaped human history and continue to spark curiosity and exploration in various realms, from academia to popular culture..

Reviews for "Famous Cases of Demon Possession and Exorcism"

1. John - 1/5 stars - I was really disappointed with this book. The summary claimed to provide a comprehensive overview of demonology and magic, but it fell flat. The content was shallow and lacking any depth. It barely scratched the surface of the topic and left me wanting more information. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a thorough exploration of demonology and magic.

2. Sarah - 2/5 stars - As someone who is genuinely interested in demonology and magic, I had high hopes for this summary. Unfortunately, it left much to be desired. The information provided was too basic and lacked any real substance. I was hoping for a more in-depth analysis and exploration of the subject matter. Overall, it was a letdown and I would not recommend it to serious enthusiasts.

3. Michael - 2/5 stars - I found this summary of demonology and magic to be quite superficial. The author failed to provide any meaningful insights or compelling arguments. The information presented was too generalized and lacked any real depth. It felt more like a rushed overview rather than a comprehensive analysis. I was left feeling unsatisfied and unimpressed.

4. Emily - 1/5 stars - The summary of demonology and magic was extremely disappointing. It offered no new information or unique perspectives on the subject. The content was lackluster and unengaging. It felt like the author simply regurgitated generic facts without adding any valuable insights. I would not recommend this summary to anyone looking for a thoughtful exploration of demonology and magic.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Demonology