Religious History of Exorcism: 11 Facts

If you are thirsty to learn more about the history of exorcism as it pertains to religion , consider the facts presented in this article, which touch upon the “Deliverance Ministry” and a mentioning of additional ancient cultures that believed in and performed the practice of removing demons from the body of a “possessed” individual.

In January of 1999, the Catholic Church edited the “Rite of Exorcism” despite the fact that the traditional Rite of Exorcism in Latin is still permitted as an option.

It is believed that a demon can take control over the physical body of someone who has become possessed, but in order for an exorcism to become a success , an individual must have a hold of their free-will , something that is believed to stay intact during a possession. It is the prayers, invocations, and blessings that contribute to freeing a person from their inner demon. Overall, the process is quite dangerous and spiritual.

A document titled “Of Exorcisms and Certain Supplications,” helps an individual performing an exorcism. This is not the only publication that provides assistance. There are other “formulas” and methods, such as the Benedictine Vade retro satana.

During modern times, the authorization for an exorcism granted by the Catholic Church is pretty rare.

If someone exhibits a mild case, the Chaplet of Saint Michael may come into play , a Roman Catholic prayer usually followed with the use of prayer beads.

The Church of England set up what was known as the “Deliverance Ministry” in 1974, which instructed every diocese in the country to furnish a group of people that had received training in both exorcism, as well as psychiatry. Many groups will turn to “gifted” individuals who are believed to possess the power to “drive out” the demons or “devils” that has taken over a body. The process of healing through touch is also a prominent belief. This practice is referred to as “laying on of hands” or “praying over” someone.

An Anglican priest is not allowed to perform an exorcism without the permission of a Diocesan bishop. Most often, not only the bishop is involved in the decision, as his consent is also coupled with that of a team of specialists that include a psychiatrist and doctor.

There are a handful of Protestant denominations that recognize the notion of exorcism and possession. The practice that they acknowledge is typically less formal when compared to the ways of the Catholic Church.

Within the Methodist Church, there have been people appointed to stand ready if any circumstances should arise where an exorcism is required.

There is evidence that the Jewish religion displays examples of exorcism , which are visible in the Talmud (more specifically in Schabbath, xiv, 3; Aboda Zara, xii, 2; Sanhedrin, x, 1).

Evidence of exorcisms in the ancient Babylonian and Egyptian culture has been uncovered throughout the years.