Thaumaturgia by An Oxonian
page 39 of 314 (12%)
page 39 of 314 (12%)
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thus in the "life of Zoroaster," we find that able innovator frequently
entering the lists with hostile enchanters, admitting but exceeding the wonderful works they performed; and thus also when the thirst of power, or of distinction, divided the sacerdotal colleges, similar trials of skill would ensue, the successful combatant being considered to derive his knowledge from the more powerful god. That the science on which each party depended was derived from experimental physics, may be proved. 1. by the conduct of the Thaumaturgists, or wonder-workers: 2. from what they themselves had said concerning magic; the genii invoked by the magicians, sometimes denoting physical or chemical agents employed, sometimes men who cultivated the science. [4] All the three orders of Magi enumerated by Porphyry, abstained from wine and women, and the first of these orders from animal food. [5] Vol. ii. p. 287. [6] See Tobit. chap. viii. v. 2 and 2. [7] Elias, as quoted by Becker. [8] There is no mention made of the word _Devil_ in the Old Testament, but only of _Satan_: nor do we meet with it in any of the heathen authors who say anything about the devil in the signification attached to it among christians; that is, as a creature revolted from God. Their theology went no farther than to evil genii, or demons, who harassed and persecuted mankind, though we are still aware that many curious _nick_-names are given to the prince of darkness both by ancient and modern writers. |
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