Demon Possession and Allied Themes; Being an Inductive Study of Phenomena of Our Own Times

by John L. Nevius

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1896. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XVIII.* THE FACTS AND LITERATURE OF THE OCCULT. The facts that make the foundation for the discussion conducted in the present volume have not been drawn from literature, but from life. A considerable body of carefully sifted and well authenticated facts are offered to be accounted for, which yet are but specimens of a much larger collection made. They are gathered from the author's personal observation and the agreeing testimony of many trustworthy and living witnesses, having no collusion with each other. Such facts, however unfamiliar to many readers, are not confined to any distant antiquity, but are still occurring. They are not the half seen, half remembered, and many times exaggerated phenomena out of which myths of were-wolves and changelings are evolved. They are everyday facts which can be examined at first hand in many places, and substantiated at every point by any person who will take the pains. Nor are these facts of an isolated kind. For nothing is more obvious than that they belong to an enormous class, with important subdivisions, and that they exhibit an unfailing vitality, a persistence of recurrence, and a relation to human welfare which gives them a commanding claim to be understood. The designation of their class in most instances involves some theory of their origin, and varies with different persons. They are said to belong to the order of the supernatural. They are called preternatural, supernormal, superhuman, supersensuous, miraculous and occult. One describes them in terms of medical science. Another regards them as myths, and no testimony will convince him that such facts have ever existed as this volume and many other books report. * In regard to this chapter, prepared by the Editor of this volume, see Note of Expla...

Genres: Christian, Religion

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1895

About the author

John Livingston Nevius was an American Protestant missionary in China. He was the author of a number of books on Chinese religions and customs, and on missionary work.

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

a step back in time. Although the focus is mainly on China, a great deal of the information is universal. It focuses on whether or not demon possession still exists in the modern world. It also looks at what affect Christianity is having on the whole world, as well as medicine and science. We no longer believe in Demons, spirits and ghosts as we once did. We now look at the supernatural as entertainment, not as something to be worshiped. Gone is our fear and awe, replaced by games and silliness After all, it use to be only seers and medium could hear voices in the air, now it's my phone. How the world has changed.

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating and thorough study of possession in China in the mid-19th century. The author shares his experience dealing with demonic possession and also provides anecdotal reports from other pastors and missionaries in China who experienced similar situations. He then explores the topic of possession, interacting with scientists, psychologists, and others who seek to disprove the idea of possession and does well providing convincing responses to their arguments.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

The format of the book was poor,the information about celestial beings,demons etc was good
The subjects were mainly focused on china…
But Yeahh overall it’s good for those who believed in supernatural!

[Brad · Rating 2 out of 5]

A well written book, sadly this presentation of it is poorly formatted which makes reading it digitally challenging at times.

[Ty mader · Rating 4 out of 5]

i am lucky enough to own an original copy of this book, which i feel certainly enhances the enjoyment of reading this book. this is an incredible work in my opinion. nevius was able to gather not only his own evidence but also that of many others in asia to present a through study. very informational, well written. he mentions many other authors of that period who also dealt with demon possession and similar themes. these authurs are footnoted and are giving ample additional reading on the subject. he conducts scientific type analysis which gives some credibility to his work that it is not a hokus-pokus type affair.

[J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite being written by a Christian missionary from the 19th century, this work is still of interest for its mainly objective descriptions of possession. It is also of worth for its depictions of Chinese superstition and folk practices, such as the references to the "incense burners" and to the beliefs in the cause of an individual's possession. Spiritualism is also accounted for as well as a helpful bibliography of works on psychic science, spiritualism, folklore and demonology (works up to the late 19th century). The author planned further volumes on the Devil, which unfortunately never came to pass.

[Cory Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well documented

I only gave it 4 stars because of the confusing typo's in the book. Price is great. The subject material is scarey. This book is not for every one. However if your relationship with God is rock solid check out to see how powerful the name of Christ is!