Having the Spirit of Christ: Spirit Possession and Exorcism in the Early Christ Groups

This book explores the historical and cultural significance of spirit possession and exorcism in early Christianity, challenging traditional interpretations and highlighting their positive aspects. It utilizes a comparative approach with contemporary ethnographies to understand the religious, cultural, and social meanings of possession for early Christ groups.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 04 February 2020
Publisher: Yale University Press

A thought-provoking reinterpretation of accounts of spirit possession and exorcism in early Christianity emerges from the pages of the earliest Christian writings. These narratives, which played a pivotal role in the life and practice of the historical Jesus and the early groups of his followers, have often been marginalized or disregarded by mainstream scholarship in reconstructing early Christian history. However, this groundbreaking book takes a fresh approach to the study of possession by employing a comparative lens that encompasses contemporary ethnographies of possession across diverse cultures.

Beyond its harmful implications, possession holds a significant cultural and spiritual significance in many societies. It serves as a catalyst for introspection, identity reshaping, moral decision-making, and a vivid remembrance of the past. By examining these ancient documents in the context of these ethnographic studies, the book unveils the profound religious, cultural, and social meanings that the experience of possession had for the early Christ groups.

This innovative approach challenges traditional perspectives and sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of the possession phenomenon in early Christianity. It emphasizes the need to reexamine these topics and recognize their relevance in understanding the religious and cultural landscape of the early Christian communities. By doing so, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of beliefs, practices, and experiences that shaped the early Christian world.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 239 x 165 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300245622