Ancient Texts QUESTION from Kevin March 20, 2000 As Im sure there have been many thousands of texts written about vampires and demons and such over the centuries, has there been any one particular book that was the authority on demonology or te occult? In my research, I keep stumbling upon references to many old texts, (usually German or Latin) from the 14th-18th centuries that seem to hold valuable and historic information on these things. Sure they could be mere folklore or old wives tales, but anyone with any sense knows that folkloric or legendary tales derived from truth at some point.
Now as a regular visitor to this site, Im sure you will try to tell me to abstain from occult/demonology research, but I think of myself as more of an old book hunter than an occultist. (I certainly DO NOT practice occultism anyway.)
But as per my question, have you seen, read, or heard of any specific books from that era that might be availible or even in existence anywhere? If nothing else, I think that they would make fascinating reading !!! Please help.
ANSWER by John-Paul Ignatius, O.L.S.M. on March 25, 2000 Dear Kevin:
The only authority in this subject is the Catholic Church. The Church has issued a couple of documents. The most authoritative recent document is probably, Les formes multiples de la superstition, Christian Faith and Demonology, Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship, June 26, 1975.
I don't think we have that online yet, but we will. I will link it in the Resource section at the top of the SW Forum Index page when we do get it online.
You can also view other documents, some written by bishops, in our Library at the following URL: http://www.saint-mike.org/Library/Occult/OccultLibraryCard.html
There are other books I recommend, which will be included in the Index of Recommended Books, the first batch I hope to have online in a couple of days.
In addition to this, for authoritative analysis of demonology refer to Thomas Aquinas, Augustine, Padre Pio, and many other saints throughout history.
In terms of ancient books, once you venture away from books written by the saints, then you will find yourself in trouble.
I suspect that part of what you are looking for in ancient books is a resource that, I am sorry, but I will not tell you about or help you with.
Whether you currently practice occultism is not the point or concern. The curtesy you are exhibiting is TOTALLY recognizable and classic textbook as throwing up every red flag in the book -- despite your assurances that your interest in utterly innocent. In your conscious mind you may be utterly sincere in believing the curiosity your express here is innocent and academic. But I know things you don't know about this and I know what is dangerous when others may not see the danger. I have been there done that, and it almost cost me my life, and worse, it almost cost my soul.
Although you can discover much of what you want from others, I will not contribute to it, sorry, since I believe your are nosing into things you don't need to know and don't realize how close you are to getting your nose ripped off.
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