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==PAPER 90: SHAMANISM—MEDICINE MEN AND PRIESTS==

==PAPER 90: SHAMANISM—MEDICINE MEN AND PRIESTS==

90:0.1 The [[evolution]] of [[religious]] observances [[progressed]] from placation, avoidance, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism exorcism], [[coercion]], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conciliation conciliation], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propitiation propitiation] to [[sacrifice]], [[atonement]], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redemption redemption]. The [[technique]] of [[religious]] [[ritual]] passed from the forms of the [[primitive]] [[cult]] through [[fetishes]] to [[magic]] and [[miracles]]; and as [[ritual]] became more [[complex]] in response to man's increasingly complex [[concept]] of the supermaterial realms, it was inevitably [[dominated]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_men medicine men], [[shamans]], and [[priests]].

90:0.1 The [[evolution]] of [[religious]] observances [[progressed]] from placation, avoidance, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exorcism exorcism], [[coercion]], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conciliation conciliation], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propitiation propitiation] to [[sacrifice]], [[atonement]], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redemption redemption]. The [[technique]] of [[religious]] [[ritual]] passed from the forms of the [[primitive]] [[cult]] through [[fetishes]] to [[magic]] and [[miracles]]; and as [[ritual]] became more [[complex]] in response to man's increasingly complex [[concept]] of the supermaterial realms, it was inevitably [[dominated]] by [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_men medicine men], [[shamans]], and [[priests]].

90:0.2 In the advancing [[concepts]] of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] the spirit world was [[eventually]] regarded as being unresponsive to the ordinary [[mortal]]. Only the exceptional among [[humans]] could catch the ear of the [[gods]]; only the extraordinary man or woman would be heard by the spirits. [[Religion]] thus enters upon a new [[phase]], a [[stage]] wherein it gradually becomes secondhanded; always does a medicine man, a [[shaman]], or a [[priest]] [[intervene]] between the religionist and the object of [[worship]]. And today most [[Urantia]] systems of organized religious belief are passing through this level of [[evolutionary]] [[development]].

90:0.2 In the advancing [[concepts]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] the spirit world was [[eventually]] regarded as being unresponsive to the ordinary [[mortal]]. Only the exceptional among [[humans]] could catch the ear of the [[gods]]; only the extraordinary man or woman would be heard by the spirits. [[Religion]] thus enters upon a new [[phase]], a [[stage]] wherein it gradually becomes secondhanded; always does a medicine man, a [[shaman]], or a [[priest]] [[intervene]] between the religionist and the object of [[worship]]. And today most [[Urantia]] systems of organized religious belief are passing through this level of [[evolutionary]] [[development]].

90:0.3 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION Evolutionary religion] is born of a [[simple]] and all-powerful [[fear]], the fear which surges through the [[human]] [[mind]] when confronted with the [[unknown]], the inexplicable, and the incomprehensible. [[Religion]] [[eventually]] achieves the [[profoundly]] [[simple]] [[realization]] of an all-powerful [[love]], the love which sweeps irresistibly through the human [[soul]] when awakened to the conception of the limitless [[affection]] of the [[Universal Father]] for the sons of the [[universe]]. But in between the beginning and the consummation of religious [[evolution]], there intervene the long ages of the [[shamans]], who presume to stand between man and [[God]] as intermediaries, [[interpreters]], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercession_of_saints intercessors].

90:0.3 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION Evolutionary religion] is born of a [[simple]] and all-powerful [[fear]], the fear which surges through the [[human]] [[mind]] when confronted with the [[unknown]], the inexplicable, and the incomprehensible. [[Religion]] [[eventually]] achieves the [[profoundly]] [[simple]] [[realization]] of an all-powerful [[love]], the love which sweeps irresistibly through the human [[soul]] when awakened to the conception of the limitless [[affection]] of the [[Universal Father]] for the sons of the [[universe]]. But in between the beginning and the consummation of religious [[evolution]], there intervene the long ages of the [[shamans]], who presume to stand between man and [[God]] as intermediaries, [[interpreters]], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intercession_of_saints intercessors].

==90:1. THE FIRST SHAMANS—THE MEDICINE MEN==

==90:1. THE FIRST SHAMANS—THE MEDICINE MEN==

90:1.1 The [[shaman]] was the ranking [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man], the ceremonial fetishman, and the [[focus]] [[personality]] for all the [[practices]] of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion]. In many [[groups]] the [[shaman]] outranked the war chief, marking the beginning of the [[church]] [[domination]] of the [[state]]. The [[shaman]] sometimes [[functioned]] as a [[priest]] and even as a priest-king. Some of the later [[tribes]] had both the earlier shaman-medicine men (seers) and the later appearing shaman-[[priests]]. And in many cases the office of [[shaman]] became hereditary.

90:1.1 The [[shaman]] was the ranking [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man], the ceremonial fetishman, and the [[focus]] [[personality]] for all the [[practices]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion]. In many [[groups]] the [[shaman]] outranked the war chief, marking the beginning of the [[church]] [[domination]] of the [[state]]. The [[shaman]] sometimes [[functioned]] as a [[priest]] and even as a priest-king. Some of the later [[tribes]] had both the earlier shaman-medicine men (seers) and the later appearing shaman-[[priests]]. And in many cases the office of [[shaman]] became hereditary.

90:1.2 Since in olden times anything abnormal was ascribed to [[spirit]] [[possession]], any striking [[mental]] or [[physical]] [[Anomaly|abnormality]] constituted qualification for being a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]. Many of these men were [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epilepsy epileptic], many of the women hysteric, and these two types accounted for a good deal of [[ancient]] [[inspiration]] as well as spirit and [[devil]] [[possession]]. Quite a few of these earliest of [[priests]] were of a class which has since been denominated [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranoid_personality_disorder paranoiac].

90:1.2 Since in olden times anything abnormal was ascribed to [[spirit]] [[possession]], any striking [[mental]] or [[physical]] [[Anomaly|abnormality]] constituted qualification for being a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]. Many of these men were [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epilepsy epileptic], many of the women hysteric, and these two types accounted for a good deal of [[ancient]] [[inspiration]] as well as spirit and [[devil]] [[Possessed|possession]]. Quite a few of these earliest of [[priests]] were of a class which has since been denominated [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paranoid_personality_disorder paranoiac].

90:1.3 While they may have [[practiced]] [[deception]] in minor matters, the great [[majority]] of the [[shamans]] believed in the [[fact]] of their [[spirit]] [[possession]]. [[Women]] who were able to throw themselves into a [[trance]] or a cataleptic fit became powerful shamanesses; later, such women became [[prophets]] and [[spirit]] [[mediums]]. Their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalepsy cataleptic] [[trances]] usually involved alleged [[communications]] with the [[ghosts]] of the [[dead]]. Many [[female]] shamans were also [[professional]] [[dancers]].

90:1.3 While they may have [[practiced]] [[deception]] in minor matters, the great [[majority]] of the [[shamans]] believed in the [[fact]] of their [[spirit]] [[possession]]. [[Women]] who were able to throw themselves into a [[trance]] or a cataleptic fit became powerful shamanesses; later, such women became [[prophets]] and [[spirit]] [[mediums]]. Their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalepsy cataleptic] [[trances]] usually involved alleged [[communications]] with the [[ghosts]] of the [[dead]]. Many [[female]] shamans were also [[professional]] [[dancers]].

90:1.4 But not all [[shamans]] were self-deceived; many were shrewd and able tricksters. As the [[profession]] developed, a novice was required to serve an [[apprenticeship]] of ten years of hardship and self-denial to qualify as a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]. The [[shamans]] developed a [[professional]] mode of dress and affected a [[mysterious]] [[conduct]]. They frequently employed [[drugs]] to induce certain [[physical]] [[states]] which would impress and mystify the tribesmen. Sleight-of-hand feats were regarded as [[supernatural]] by the common folk, and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ventriloquism ventriloquism] was first used by shrewd [[priests]]. Many of the olden [[shamans]] unwittingly stumbled onto [[hypnotism]]; others induced autohypnosis by prolonged staring at their navels.

90:1.4 But not all [[shamans]] were self-deceived; many were shrewd and able tricksters. As the [[profession]] developed, a novice was required to serve an [[apprenticeship]] of ten years of hardship and self-denial to qualify as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]. The [[shamans]] developed a [[professional]] mode of dress and affected a [[mysterious]] [[conduct]]. They frequently employed [[drugs]] to induce certain [[physical]] [[states]] which would impress and mystify the tribesmen. Sleight-of-hand feats were regarded as [[supernatural]] by the common folk, and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ventriloquism ventriloquism] was first used by shrewd [[priests]]. Many of the olden [[shamans]] unwittingly stumbled onto [[hypnotism]]; others induced autohypnosis by prolonged staring at their navels.

90:1.5 While many resorted to these tricks and [[deceptions]], their reputation as a class, after all, stood on apparent [[achievement]]. When a [[shaman]] failed in his undertakings, if he could not advance a plausible alibi, he was either demoted or killed. Thus the [[honest]] [[shamans]] early perished; only the shrewd [[actors]] [[survived]].

90:1.5 While many resorted to these tricks and [[deceptions]], their reputation as a class, after all, stood on apparent [[achievement]]. When a [[shaman]] failed in his undertakings, if he could not advance a plausible alibi, he was either demoted or killed. Thus the [[honest]] [[shamans]] early perished; only the shrewd [[actors]] [[survived]].

==90:2. SHAMANISTIC PRACTICES==

==90:2. SHAMANISTIC PRACTICES==

90:2.1 [[Spirit]] [[conjuring]] was a very precise and highly [[complicated]] [[procedure]], comparable to present-day [[church]] [[rituals]] conducted in an [[ancient]] [[tongue]]. The [[human]] race very early sought for [[superhuman]] help, for [[revelation]]; and men believed that the [[shaman]] actually received such [[revelations]]. While the [[shamans]] utilized the great [[power]] of suggestion in their [[work]], it was almost invariably [[negative]] suggestion; only in very recent times has the [[technique]] of positive suggestion been employed. In the early [[development]] of their [[profession]] the shamans began to specialize in such vocations as [[rain]] making, [[disease]] [[healing]], and [[crime]] detecting. To heal diseases was not, however, the chief [[function]] of a shamanic [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]; it was, rather, to know and to [[control]] the hazards of living.

90:2.1 [[Spirit]] [[conjuring]] was a very precise and highly [[complicated]] [[procedure]], comparable to present-day [[church]] [[rituals]] conducted in an [[ancient]] [[tongue]]. The [[human]] race very early sought for [[superhuman]] help, for [[revelation]]; and men believed that the [[shaman]] actually received such [[revelations]]. While the [[shamans]] utilized the great [[power]] of suggestion in their [[work]], it was almost invariably [[negative]] suggestion; only in very recent times has the [[technique]] of positive suggestion been employed. In the early [[development]] of their [[profession]] the shamans began to specialize in such vocations as [[rain]] making, [[disease]] [[healing]], and [[crime]] detecting. To heal diseases was not, however, the chief [[function]] of a shamanic [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine man]; it was, rather, to know and to [[control]] the hazards of living.

90:2.2 [[Ancient]] [[Occult|black art]], both religious and secular, was called white art when [[practiced]] by either [[priests]], seers, [[shamans]], or medicine men. The practitioners of the black art were called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorcery sorcerers], magicians, wizards, witches, enchanters, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necromancy necromancers], conjurers, and soothsayers. As time passed, all such purported [[contact]] with the [[supernatural]] was classified either as witchcraft or shamancraft.

90:2.2 [[Ancient]] [[Occult|black art]], both religious and secular, was called white art when [[practiced]] by either [[priests]], seers, [[shamans]], or medicine men. The practitioners of the black art were called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorcery sorcerers], magicians, wizards, witches, enchanters, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necromancy necromancers], conjurers, and soothsayers. As time passed, all such purported [[contact]] with the [[supernatural]] was classified either as witchcraft or shamancraft.

90:2.3 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft Witchcraft] [[embraced]] the [[magic]] performed by earlier, irregular, and unrecognized spirits; shamancraft had to do with [[miracles]] performed by regular spirits and recognized gods of the [[tribe]]. In later times the witch became associated with the [[devil]], and thus was the [[stage]] set for the many comparatively recent exhibitions of [[religious]] [[intolerance]]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft Witchcraft] was a [[religion]] with many [[primitive]] [[tribes]].

90:2.3 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft Witchcraft] [[embraced]] the [[magic]] performed by earlier, irregular, and unrecognized spirits; shamancraft had to do with [[miracles]] performed by regular spirits and recognized gods of the [[tribe]]. In later times the witch became associated with the [[devil]], and thus was the [[stage]] set for the many comparatively recent exhibitions of [[religious]] [[intolerance]]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft Witchcraft] was a [[religion]] with many [[primitive]] [[tribes]].

90:2.4 The [[shamans]] were great believers in the mission of [[chance]] as [[revelatory]] of the will of the spirits; they frequently [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cast_lots cast lots] to arrive at [[decisions]]. [[Modern]] survivals of this proclivity for casting lots are [[illustrated]], not only in the many [[games]] of [[chance]], but also in the well-known "counting-out"[http://www.inquiry.net/outdoor/summer/counting_out/index.htm] rhymes. Once, the [[person]] counted out must [[die]]; now, he is only it in some childish game. That which was serious [[business]] to [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] has [[survived]] as a diversion of the [[modern]] [[child]].

90:2.4 The [[shamans]] were great believers in the mission of [[chance]] as [[revelatory]] of the will of the spirits; they frequently [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cast_lots cast lots] to arrive at [[decisions]]. [[Modern]] survivals of this proclivity for casting lots are [[illustrated]], not only in the many [[games]] of [[chance]], but also in the well-known "counting-out"[https://www.inquiry.net/outdoor/summer/counting_out/index.htm] rhymes. Once, the [[person]] counted out must [[die]]; now, he is only it in some childish game. That which was serious [[business]] to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man] has [[survived]] as a diversion of the [[modern]] [[child]].

90:2.5 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] put great [[trust]] in signs and omens, such as, "When you hear the sound of a rustling in the tops of the mulberry trees, then shall you bestir yourself."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Second_Book_of_Samuel#Chapter_.5] Very early in the [[history]] of the [[race]] the [[shamans]] turned their [[attention]] to the [[stars]]. Primitive [[astrology]] was a world-wide [[belief]] and [[practice]]; [[dream]] [[interpreting]] also became widespread. All this was soon followed by the [[appearance]] of those temperamental shamanesses who professed to be able to [[communicate]] with the spirits of the [[dead]].

90:2.5 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] put great [[trust]] in signs and omens, such as, "When you hear the sound of a rustling in the tops of the mulberry trees, then shall you bestir yourself."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Second_Book_of_Samuel#Chapter_.5] Very early in the [[history]] of the [[race]] the [[shamans]] turned their [[attention]] to the [[stars]]. Primitive [[astrology]] was a world-wide [[belief]] and [[practice]]; [[dream]] [[interpreting]] also became widespread. All this was soon followed by the [[appearance]] of those temperamental shamanesses who professed to be able to [[communicate]] with the spirits of the [[dead]].

90:2.6 Though of [[ancient]] [[origin]], the rain makers, or [[weather]] [[shamans]], have persisted right on down through the ages. A severe drought meant [[death]] to the early [[Farmer|agriculturists]; [[weather]] [[control]] was the object of much [[ancient]] [[magic]]. Civilized man still makes the [[weather]] the common topic of [[conversation]]. The olden peoples all believed in the [[power]] of the [[shaman]] as a rain maker, but it was customary to kill him when he failed, unless he could offer a plausible excuse to account for the failure.

90:2.6 Though of [[ancient]] [[origin]], the rain makers, or [[weather]] [[shamans]], have persisted right on down through the ages. A severe drought meant [[death]] to the early [[Farmer|agriculturists]]; [[weather]] [[control]] was the object of much [[ancient]] [[magic]]. Civilized man still makes the [[weather]] the common topic of [[conversation]]. The olden peoples all believed in the [[power]] of the [[shaman]] as a rain maker, but it was customary to kill him when he failed, unless he could offer a plausible excuse to account for the failure.

90:2.7 Again and again did the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Emperor#Lineages_and_epochs Caesars] banish the [[astrologers]], but they invariably returned because of the popular [[belief]] in their [[powers]]. They could not be driven out, and even in the sixteenth century after Christ the directors of Occidental [[church]] and [[state]] were the patrons of [[astrology]]. Thousands of supposedly [[intelligent]] people still believe that one may be born under the [[domination]] of a [[luck]]y or an unlucky star; that the [[juxtaposition]] of the heavenly bodies determines the outcome of various [[terrestrial]] [[adventures]]. Fortunetellers are still patronized by the credulous.

90:2.7 Again and again did the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Emperor#Lineages_and_epochs Caesars] banish the [[astrologers]], but they invariably returned because of the popular [[belief]] in their [[powers]]. They could not be driven out, and even in the sixteenth century after Christ the directors of Occidental [[church]] and [[state]] were the patrons of [[astrology]]. Thousands of supposedly [[intelligent]] people still believe that one may be born under the [[domination]] of a [[luck]]y or an unlucky star; that the [[juxtaposition]] of the heavenly bodies determines the outcome of various [[terrestrial]] [[adventures]]. Fortunetellers are still patronized by the credulous.

90:2.8 The [[Greeks]] believed in the efficacy of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Oracle_of_Delphi oracular] advice, the [[Chinese]] used [[magic]] as protection against [[demons]], [[shamanism]] flourished in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India], and it still openly persists in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asia central Asia]. It is an only recently abandoned [[practice]] throughout much of the world.

90:2.8 The [[Greeks]] believed in the efficacy of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Oracle_of_Delphi oracular] advice, the [[Chinese]] used [[magic]] as protection against [[demons]], [[shamanism]] flourished in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India], and it still openly persists in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asia central Asia]. It is an only recently abandoned [[practice]] throughout much of the world.

90:2.9 Ever and anon, true [[prophets]] and teachers arose to denounce and expose [[shamanism]]. Even the vanishing red man had such a [[prophet]] within the past hundred years, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenskwatawa Shawnee Teuskwatowa], who [[predicted]] the [http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Feclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov%2FSEsearch%2FSEsearchmap.php%3FEcl%3D-18080827&rct=j&q=eclipse%20of%201808&ei=riiITIqUPI329ASYwaHfDg&usg=AFQjCNHz5VOsvhNcM1-wllYQkm8xgLlrYg&sig2=Ej7xh3bdojezqIk8dXWg8A&cad=rja eclipse of the sun in 1808] and denounced the [[vices]] of the [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_80#80:9._THE_THREE_WHITE_RACES white man]. Many true teachers have appeared among the various [[tribes]] and races all through the long ages of [[evolutionary]] [[history]]. And they will ever continue to appear to [[challenge]] the [[shamans]] or [[priests]] of any age who oppose general [[education]] and attempt to thwart [[scientific]] [[progress]].

90:2.9 Ever and anon, true [[prophets]] and teachers arose to denounce and expose [[shamanism]]. Even the vanishing red man had such a [[prophet]] within the past hundred years, the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenskwatawa Shawnee Teuskwatowa], who [[predicted]] the [https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBUQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Feclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov%2FSEsearch%2FSEsearchmap.php%3FEcl%3D-18080827&rct=j&q=eclipse%20of%201808&ei=riiITIqUPI329ASYwaHfDg&usg=AFQjCNHz5VOsvhNcM1-wllYQkm8xgLlrYg&sig2=Ej7xh3bdojezqIk8dXWg8A&cad=rja eclipse of the sun in 1808] and denounced the [[vices]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_80#80:9._THE_THREE_WHITE_RACES white man]. Many true teachers have appeared among the various [[tribes]] and races all through the long ages of [[evolutionary]] [[history]]. And they will ever continue to appear to [[challenge]] the [[shamans]] or [[priests]] of any age who oppose general [[education]] and attempt to thwart [[scientific]] [[progress]].

90:2.10 In many ways and by devious [[methods]] the olden shamans [[established]] their reputations as [[voices]] of [[God]] and custodians of [[providence]]. They sprinkled the newborn with [[water]] and conferred [[names]] upon them; they [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circumcision circumcised] the [[males]]. They presided over all [[burial]] [[ceremonies]] and made due announcement of the safe arrival of the dead in spiritland.

90:2.10 In many ways and by devious [[methods]] the olden shamans [[established]] their reputations as [[voices]] of [[God]] and custodians of [[providence]]. They sprinkled the newborn with [[water]] and conferred [[names]] upon them; they [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circumcision circumcised] the [[males]]. They presided over all [[burial]] [[ceremonies]] and made due announcement of the safe arrival of the dead in spiritland.

90:2.11 The shamanic [[priests]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] often became very [[wealthy]] through the accretion of their various fees which were ostensibly offerings to the spirits. Not infrequently a [[shaman]] would accumulate practically all the material wealth of his [[tribe]]. Upon the [[death]] of a wealthy man it was customary to divide his property equally with the shaman and some [[public]] enterprise or [[charity]]. This [[practice]] still obtains in some parts of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tibet Tibet], where one half the [[male]] [[population]] belongs to this class of nonproducers.

90:2.11 The shamanic [[priests]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] often became very [[wealthy]] through the accretion of their various fees which were ostensibly offerings to the spirits. Not infrequently a [[shaman]] would accumulate practically all the material wealth of his [[tribe]]. Upon the [[death]] of a wealthy man it was customary to divide his property equally with the shaman and some [[public]] enterprise or [[charity]]. This [[practice]] still obtains in some parts of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tibet Tibet], where one half the [[male]] [[population]] belongs to this class of nonproducers.

90:2.12 The [[shamans]] dressed well and usually had a number of [[wives]]; they were the [[original]] [[aristocracy]], being exempt from all tribal restrictions. They were very often of low-grade [[mind]] and [[morals]]. They suppressed their rivals by denominating them witches or sorcerers and very frequently rose to such positions of [[influence]] and [[power]] that they were able to [[dominate]] the chiefs or kings.

90:2.12 The [[shamans]] dressed well and usually had a number of [[wives]]; they were the [[original]] [[aristocracy]], being exempt from all tribal restrictions. They were very often of low-grade [[mind]] and [[morals]]. They suppressed their rivals by denominating them witches or sorcerers and very frequently rose to such positions of [[influence]] and [[power]] that they were able to [[dominate]] the chiefs or kings.

90:2.13 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] regarded the [[shaman]] as a [[necessary]] [[evil]]; he feared him but did not [[love]] him. Early man respected [[knowledge]]; he honored and rewarded [[wisdom]]. The shaman was mostly fraud, but the [[veneration]] for shamanism well [[illustrates]] the premium put upon [[wisdom]] in the [[evolution]] of the [[race]].

90:2.13 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] regarded the [[shaman]] as a [[necessary]] [[evil]]; he feared him but did not [[love]] him. Early man respected [[knowledge]]; he honored and rewarded [[wisdom]]. The shaman was mostly fraud, but the [[veneration]] for shamanism well [[illustrates]] the premium put upon [[wisdom]] in the [[evolution]] of the [[race]].

==90:3. THE SHAMANIC THEORY OF DISEASE AND DEATH==

==90:3. THE SHAMANIC THEORY OF DISEASE AND DEATH==

90:3.1 Since [[ancient]] man regarded himself and his [[material]] [[environment]] as being directly [[responsive]] to the whims of the [[ghosts]] and the fancies of the spirits, it is not strange that his [[religion]] should have been so exclusively concerned with [[material]] affairs. [[Modern]] man [[attacks]] his [[material]] [[problems]] directly; he recognizes that [[matter]] is [[responsive]] to the [[intelligent]] [[manipulation]] of [[mind]]. [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] likewise [[desired]] to [[modify]] and even to [[control]] the life and [[energies]] of the physical [[domains]]; and since his limited [[comprehension]] of the [[cosmos]] led him to the [[belief]] that [[ghosts]], spirits, and gods were personally and [[immediately]] concerned with the detailed [[control]] of life and [[matter]], he [[logically]] directed his efforts to winning the [[favor]] and support of these [[superhuman]] [[agencies]].

90:3.1 Since [[ancient]] man regarded himself and his [[material]] [[environment]] as being directly [[responsive]] to the whims of the [[ghosts]] and the fancies of the spirits, it is not strange that his [[religion]] should have been so exclusively concerned with [[material]] affairs. [[Modern]] man [[attacks]] his [[material]] [[problems]] directly; he recognizes that [[matter]] is [[responsive]] to the [[intelligent]] [[manipulation]] of [[mind]]. [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] likewise [[desired]] to [[modify]] and even to [[control]] the life and [[energies]] of the physical [[domains]]; and since his limited [[comprehension]] of the [[cosmos]] led him to the [[belief]] that [[ghosts]], spirits, and gods were personally and [[immediately]] concerned with the detailed [[control]] of life and [[matter]], he [[logically]] directed his efforts to winning the [[favor]] and support of these [[superhuman]] [[agencies]].

90:3.2 Viewed in this [[light]], much of the inexplicable and irrational in the [[ancient]] [[cults]] is understandable. The [[ceremonies]] of the [[cult]] were [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man]'s attempt to [[control]] the [[material]] world in which he found himself. And many of his [[efforts]] were directed to the end of prolonging life and insuring [[health]]. Since all [[diseases]] and [[death]] itself were originally regarded as [[spirit]] [[phenomena]], it was [[inevitable]] that the [[shamans]], while functioning as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] and [[priests]], should also have labored as [[Physician|doctors]] and surgeons.

90:3.2 Viewed in this [[light]], much of the inexplicable and irrational in the [[ancient]] [[cults]] is understandable. The [[ceremonies]] of the [[cult]] were [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive man]'s attempt to [[control]] the [[material]] world in which he found himself. And many of his [[efforts]] were directed to the end of prolonging life and insuring [[health]]. Since all [[diseases]] and [[death]] itself were originally regarded as [[spirit]] [[phenomena]], it was [[inevitable]] that the [[shamans]], while functioning as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] and [[priests]], should also have labored as [[Physician|doctors]] and surgeons.

90:3.3 The [[primitive]] [[mind]] may be [[handicapped]] by lack of [[facts]], but it is for all that [[logical]]. When thoughtful men [[observe]] [[disease]] and [[death]], they set about to determine the [[causes]] of these visitations, and in [[accordance]] with their [[understanding]], the [[shamans]] and the [[scientists]] have propounded the following [[theories]] of affliction:

90:3.3 The [[primitive]] [[mind]] may be [[handicapped]] by lack of [[facts]], but it is for all that [[logical]]. When thoughtful men [[observe]] [[disease]] and [[death]], they set about to determine the [[causes]] of these visitations, and in [[accordance]] with their [[understanding]], the [[shamans]] and the [[scientists]] have propounded the following [[theories]] of affliction:

*1. 90:3.4 1. ''Ghosts''—direct [[spirit]] [[influences]]. The earliest [[hypothesis]] advanced in [[explanation]] of [[disease]] and [[death]] was that spirits caused [[disease]] by enticing the [[soul]] out of the [[body]]; if it failed to return, [[death]] ensued. The [[ancients]] so feared the malevolent [[action]] of disease-producing ghosts that ailing [[individuals]] would often be deserted without even [[food]] or [[water]]. Regardless of the erroneous basis for these [[beliefs]], they did effectively isolate afflicted individuals and prevent the spread of [[contagious]] [[disease]].

*1. 90:3.4 1. ''Ghosts''—direct [[spirit]] [[influences]]. The earliest [[hypothesis]] advanced in [[explanation]] of [[disease]] and [[death]] was that spirits caused [[disease]] by enticing the [[soul]] out of the [[body]]; if it failed to return, [[death]] ensued. The [[ancients]] so feared the malevolent [[action]] of disease-producing ghosts that ailing [[individuals]] would often be deserted without even [[food]] or [[water]]. Regardless of the erroneous basis for these [[beliefs]], they did effectively isolate afflicted individuals and prevent the spread of [[contagious]] [[disease]].

*2. 90:3.5 2. ''Violence''—obvious [[cause]]s. The causes for some [[accidents]] and deaths were so easy to identify that they were early removed from the category of [[ghost]] [[action]]. Fatalities and wounds attendant upon [[war]], [[animal]] combat, and other readily identifiable [[agencies]] were [[considered]] as [[natural]] occurrences. But it was long believed that the spirits were still [[responsible]] for delayed [[healing]] or for the infection of wounds of even " natural " causation. If no observable [[natural]] [[agent]] could be [[discovered]], the spirit [[ghosts]] were still held responsible for [[disease]] and [[death]].

*2. 90:3.5 2. ''Violence''—obvious [[cause]]s. The causes for some [[accidents]] and deaths were so easy to identify that they were early removed from the category of [[ghost]] [[action]]. Fatalities and wounds attendant upon [[war]], [[animal]] combat, and other readily identifiable [[agencies]] were [[considered]] as [[natural]] occurrences. But it was long believed that the spirits were still [[responsible]] for delayed [[healing]] or for the infection of wounds of even " natural " causation. If no observable [[natural]] [[agent]] could be [[discovered]], the spirit [[ghosts]] were still held responsible for [[disease]] and [[death]].

90:3.6 Today, in Africa and elsewhere may be found [[primitive]] peoples who kill someone every time a nonviolent [[death]] occurs. Their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] indicate the [[guilty]] parties. If a [[mother]] dies in [[childbirth]], the [[child]] is immediately strangled—a life for a life.

90:3.6 Today, in Africa and elsewhere may be found [[primitive]] peoples who kill someone every time a nonviolent [[death]] occurs. Their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] indicate the [[guilty]] parties. If a [[mother]] dies in [[childbirth]], the [[child]] is immediately strangled—a life for a life.

*3. 90:3.7 3. ''Magic''—the [[influence]] of enemies. Much sickness was thought to be caused by bewitchment, the [[action]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evil_eye evil eye] and the [[magic]] pointing bow. At one time it was really [[dangerous]] to point a finger at anyone; it is still regarded as ill-mannered to point. In cases of obscure [[disease]] and [[death]] the [[ancients]] would hold a formal inquest, dissect the [[body]], and settle upon some finding as the [[cause]] of death; otherwise the death would be laid to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft witchcraft], thus necessitating the [[execution]] of the witch responsible therefor. These [[ancient]] coroner's inquests saved many a supposed witch's life. Among some it was believed that a tribesman could die as a result of his own witchcraft, in which [[event]] no one was accused.

*3. 90:3.7 3. ''Magic''—the [[influence]] of enemies. Much sickness was thought to be caused by bewitchment, the [[action]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evil_eye evil eye] and the [[magic]] pointing bow. At one time it was really [[dangerous]] to point a finger at anyone; it is still regarded as ill-mannered to point. In cases of obscure [[disease]] and [[death]] the [[ancients]] would hold a formal inquest, dissect the [[body]], and settle upon some finding as the [[cause]] of death; otherwise the death would be laid to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft witchcraft], thus necessitating the [[execution]] of the witch responsible therefor. These [[ancient]] coroner's inquests saved many a supposed witch's life. Among some it was believed that a tribesman could die as a result of his own witchcraft, in which [[event]] no one was accused.

*4. 90:3.8 4. ''Sin''—punishment for [[taboo]] violation. In comparatively recent times it has been believed that sickness is a [[punishment]] for [[sin]], [[personal]] or racial. Among peoples traversing this level of [[evolution]] the prevailing [[theory]] is that one cannot be afflicted unless one has violated a [[taboo]]. To regard sickness and suffering as "arrows of the Almighty within them"[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.6] is typical of such [[beliefs]]. The [[Chinese]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamians] long regarded disease as the result of the [[action]] of [[evil]] [[demons]], although the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaldea Chaldeans] also looked upon the [[stars]] as the cause of [[suffering]]. This [[theory]] of [[disease]] as a consequence of [[divine]] wrath is still prevalent among many reputedly civilized [[groups]] of Urantians.

*4. 90:3.8 4. ''Sin''—punishment for [[taboo]] violation. In comparatively recent times it has been believed that sickness is a [[punishment]] for [[sin]], [[personal]] or racial. Among peoples traversing this level of [[evolution]] the prevailing [[theory]] is that one cannot be afflicted unless one has violated a [[taboo]]. To regard sickness and suffering as "arrows of the Almighty within them"[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Job#Chapter_.6] is typical of such [[beliefs]]. The [[Chinese]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mesopotamia Mesopotamians] long regarded disease as the result of the [[action]] of [[evil]] [[demons]], although the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaldea Chaldeans] also looked upon the [[stars]] as the cause of [[suffering]]. This [[theory]] of [[disease]] as a consequence of [[divine]] wrath is still prevalent among many reputedly civilized [[groups]] of Urantians.

*5. 90:3.9 5. ''Natural causation''. [[Mankind]] has been very slow to learn the [[material]] [[secrets]] of the interrelationship of ''cause'' and [[effect]] in the [[physical]] [[domains]] of [[energy]], [[matter]], and life. The ancient [[Greeks]], having preserved the [[traditions]] of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:5._ADAMSON_AND_RATTA Adamson]' s teachings, were among the first to [[recognize]] that all [[disease]] is the result of [[natural]] [[causes]]. Slowly and certainly the unfolding of a [[scientific]] era is destroying man's age-old [[theories]] of sickness and [[death]]. Fever was one of the first [[human]] ailments to be removed from the category of [[supernatural]] disorders, and progressively the era of [[science]] has broken the fetters of [[ignorance]] which so long imprisoned the [[human]] [[mind]]. An [[understanding]] of old age and [[contagion]] is gradually [[obliterating]] man's [[fear]] of [[ghosts]], spirits, and gods as the [[personal]] perpetrators of [[human]] misery and mortal [[suffering]].

*5. 90:3.9 5. ''Natural causation''. [[Mankind]] has been very slow to learn the [[material]] [[secrets]] of the interrelationship of ''cause'' and [[effect]] in the [[physical]] [[domains]] of [[energy]], [[matter]], and life. The ancient [[Greeks]], having preserved the [[traditions]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_77#77:5._ADAMSON_AND_RATTA Adamson]' s teachings, were among the first to [[recognize]] that all [[disease]] is the result of [[natural]] [[causes]]. Slowly and certainly the unfolding of a [[scientific]] era is destroying man's age-old [[theories]] of sickness and [[death]]. Fever was one of the first [[human]] ailments to be removed from the category of [[supernatural]] disorders, and progressively the era of [[science]] has broken the fetters of [[ignorance]] which so long imprisoned the [[human]] [[mind]]. An [[understanding]] of old age and [[contagion]] is gradually [[obliterating]] man's [[fear]] of [[ghosts]], spirits, and gods as the [[personal]] perpetrators of [[human]] misery and mortal [[suffering]].

90:3.10 [[Evolution]] unerringly [[achieves]] its end: It imbues man with that [[superstitious]] [[fear]] of the [[unknown]] and dread of the [[unseen]] which is the [[scaffolding]] for the [[God]] [[concept]]. And having [[witnessed]] the birth of an advanced [[comprehension]] of [[Deity]], through the co-ordinate [[action]] of [[revelation]], this same [[technique]] of [[evolution]] then unerringly sets in [[motion]] those forces of [[thought]] which will inexorably [[obliterate]] the [[scaffolding]], which has served its [[purpose]].

90:3.10 [[Evolution]] unerringly [[achieves]] its end: It imbues man with that [[superstitious]] [[fear]] of the [[unknown]] and dread of the [[unseen]] which is the [[scaffolding]] for the [[God]] [[concept]]. And having [[witnessed]] the birth of an advanced [[comprehension]] of [[Deity]], through the co-ordinate [[action]] of [[revelation]], this same [[technique]] of [[evolution]] then unerringly sets in [[motion]] those forces of [[thought]] which will inexorably [[obliterate]] the [[scaffolding]], which has served its [[purpose]].

90:4.3 The more [[primitive]] [[tribes]] greatly feared the sick, and for long ages they were carefully avoided, shamefully neglected. It was a great advance in humanitarianism when the [[evolution]] of shamancraft produced [[priests]] and medicine men who consented to treat [[disease]]. Then it became [[customary]] for the entire [[clan]] to crowd into the sickroom to assist the shaman in howling the [[disease]] [[ghosts]] away. It was not uncommon for a [[woman]] to be the diagnosing [[shaman]], while a man would administer treatment. The usual [[method]] of [[diagnosing]] disease was to [[examine]] the entrails of an [[animal]].

90:4.3 The more [[primitive]] [[tribes]] greatly feared the sick, and for long ages they were carefully avoided, shamefully neglected. It was a great advance in humanitarianism when the [[evolution]] of shamancraft produced [[priests]] and medicine men who consented to treat [[disease]]. Then it became [[customary]] for the entire [[clan]] to crowd into the sickroom to assist the shaman in howling the [[disease]] [[ghosts]] away. It was not uncommon for a [[woman]] to be the diagnosing [[shaman]], while a man would administer treatment. The usual [[method]] of [[diagnosing]] disease was to [[examine]] the entrails of an [[animal]].

90:4.4 [[Disease]] was treated by [[chanting]], howling, [http://books.google.com/books?id=7IsQ0SqFlTgC&pg=PA4&dq=healing+hands&hl=en&ei=jzOITKyAEoT68AbIifW-AQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CD0Q6AEwBTgK#v=onepage&q=healing%20hands&f=false laying on of hands], [[breathing]] on the patient, and many other [[techniques]]. In later times the resort to [[temple]] [[sleep]], during which healing supposedly took place, became widespread. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] [[eventually]] essayed actual surgery in connection with temple slumber; among the first operations was that of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trephining trephining] the skull to allow a headache [[spirit]] to [[escape]]. The [[shamans]] learned to treat fractures and dislocations, to open boils and abscesses; the shamanesses became adept at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midwifery midwifery].

90:4.4 [[Disease]] was treated by [[chanting]], howling, [https://books.google.com/books?id=7IsQ0SqFlTgC&pg=PA4&dq=healing+hands&hl=en&ei=jzOITKyAEoT68AbIifW-AQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CD0Q6AEwBTgK#v=onepage&q=healing%20hands&f=false laying on of hands], [[breathing]] on the patient, and many other [[techniques]]. In later times the resort to [[temple]] [[sleep]], during which healing supposedly took place, became widespread. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medicine_man medicine men] [[eventually]] essayed actual surgery in connection with temple slumber; among the first operations was that of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trephining trephining] the skull to allow a headache [[spirit]] to [[escape]]. The [[shamans]] learned to treat fractures and dislocations, to open boils and abscesses; the shamanesses became adept at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midwifery midwifery].

90:4.5 It was a common [[method]] of treatment to rub something [[magical]] on an infected or blemished spot on the [[body]], throw the [[charm]] away, and supposedly [[experience]] a cure. If anyone should [[chance]] to pick up the discarded charm, it was believed he would immediately acquire the [[infection]] or blemish. It was a long time before [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herbs herbs] and other real [[medicines]] were introduced. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage Massage] was [[developed]] in [[connection]] with [[incantation]], rubbing the spirit out of the body, and was preceded by efforts to rub [[medicine]] in, even as moderns attempt to rub liniments in. Cupping and sucking the affected parts, together with bloodletting, were thought to be of [[value]] in getting rid of a [[disease]]-producing spirit.

90:4.5 It was a common [[method]] of treatment to rub something [[magical]] on an infected or blemished spot on the [[body]], throw the [[charm]] away, and supposedly [[experience]] a cure. If anyone should [[chance]] to pick up the discarded charm, it was believed he would immediately acquire the [[infection]] or blemish. It was a long time before [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herbs herbs] and other real [[medicines]] were introduced. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage Massage] was [[developed]] in [[connection]] with [[incantation]], rubbing the spirit out of the body, and was preceded by efforts to rub [[medicine]] in, even as moderns attempt to rub liniments in. Cupping and sucking the affected parts, together with bloodletting, were thought to be of [[value]] in getting rid of a [[disease]]-producing spirit.

90:4.6 Since [[water]] was a potent [[fetish]], it was utilized in the treatment of many ailments. For long it was believed that the [[spirit]] causing the sickness could be eliminated by sweating. Vapor baths were highly regarded; [[natural]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_springs hot springs] soon blossomed as [[primitive]] [[health]] resorts. Early man [[discovered]] that [[heat]] would relieve [[pain]]; he used sunlight, fresh animal organs, hot clay, and hot stones, and many of these methods are still employed. [[Rhythm]] was practiced in an effort to [[influence]] the spirits; the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_toms tom-toms] were [[universal]].

90:4.6 Since [[water]] was a potent [[fetish]], it was utilized in the treatment of many ailments. For long it was believed that the [[spirit]] causing the sickness could be eliminated by sweating. Vapor baths were highly regarded; [[natural]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_springs hot springs] soon blossomed as [[primitive]] [[health]] resorts. Early man [[discovered]] that [[heat]] would relieve [[pain]]; he used sunlight, fresh animal organs, hot clay, and hot stones, and many of these methods are still employed. [[Rhythm]] was practiced in an effort to [[influence]] the spirits; the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_toms tom-toms] were [[universal]].

90:4.7 Among some people [[disease]] was thought to be caused by a wicked [[conspiracy]] between spirits and animals. This gave rise to the [[belief]] that there existed a beneficent [[plant]] remedy for every animal-caused [[disease]]. The red men were especially [[devoted]] to the [[plant]] [[theory]] of universal remedies; they always put a drop of blood in the [[root]] hole left when the plant was pulled up.

90:4.7 Among some people [[disease]] was thought to be caused by a wicked [[conspiracy]] between spirits and animals. This gave rise to the [[belief]] that there existed a beneficent [[plant]] remedy for every animal-caused [[disease]]. The red men were especially [[devoted]] to the [[plant]] [[theory]] of universal remedies; they always put a drop of blood in the [[root]] hole left when the plant was pulled up.

90:4.8 [[Fasting]], dieting, and counterirritants were often used as remedial measures. Human secretions, being definitely [[magical]], were highly regarded; blood and urine were thus among the earliest [[medicines]] and were soon augmented by [[roots]] and various salts. The [[shamans]] believed that [[disease]] spirits could be driven out of the [[body]] by foul-smelling and bad-tasting medicines. Purging very early became a routine treatment, and the [[values]] of raw [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocoa cocoa] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinine quinine] were among the earliest pharmaceutical [[discoveries]].

90:4.8 [[Fasting]], dieting, and counterirritants were often used as remedial measures. Human secretions, being definitely [[magical]], were highly regarded; blood and urine were thus among the earliest [[medicines]] and were soon augmented by [[roots]] and various salts. The [[shamans]] believed that [[disease]] spirits could be driven out of the [[body]] by foul-smelling and bad-tasting medicines. Purging very early became a routine treatment, and the [[values]] of raw [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocoa cocoa] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinine quinine] were among the earliest pharmaceutical [[discoveries]].

90:4.9 The [[Greeks]] were the first to evolve truly [[rational]] [[methods]] of treating the sick. Both the [[Greeks]] and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egypt Egyptians] received their medical knowledge from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphrates_valley Euphrates valley]. Oil and wine was a very early [[medicine]] for treating wounds; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castor_oil castor oil] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opium opium] were used by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumeria Sumerians]. Many of these [[ancient]] and [[effective]] [[secret]] remedies lost their [[power]] when they became known; secrecy has always been [[essential]] to the successful [[practice]] of fraud and [[superstition]]. Only [[facts]] and [[truth]] court the full [[light]] of [[comprehension]] and rejoice in the [[illumination]] and [[enlightenment]] of [[scientific]] [[research]].

90:4.9 The [[Greeks]] were the first to evolve truly [[rational]] [[methods]] of treating the sick. Both the [[Greeks]] and the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Egypt Egyptians] received their medical knowledge from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphrates_valley Euphrates valley]. Oil and wine was a very early [[medicine]] for treating wounds; [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castor_oil castor oil] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opium opium] were used by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumeria Sumerians]. Many of these [[ancient]] and [[effective]] [[secret]] remedies lost their [[power]] when they became known; secrecy has always been [[essential]] to the successful [[practice]] of fraud and [[superstition]]. Only [[facts]] and [[truth]] court the full [[light]] of [[comprehension]] and rejoice in the [[illumination]] and [[enlightenment]] of [[scientific]] [[research]].

==90:5. PRIESTS AND RITUALS==

==90:5. PRIESTS AND RITUALS==

90:5.2 [[Ritual]] is the [[technique]] of sanctifying [[custom]]; [[ritual]] [[creates]] and perpetuates [[myths]] as well as contributing to the preservation of [[social]] and [[religious]] [[customs]]. Again, [[ritual]] itself has been fathered by [[myths]]. Rituals are often at first [[social]], later becoming [[economic]] and finally acquiring the [[sanctity]] and [[dignity]] of religious [[ceremonial]]. Ritual may be [[personal]] or [[group]] in [[practice]]—or both—as [[illustrated]] by [[prayer]], [[dancing]], and [[drama]].

90:5.2 [[Ritual]] is the [[technique]] of sanctifying [[custom]]; [[ritual]] [[creates]] and perpetuates [[myths]] as well as contributing to the preservation of [[social]] and [[religious]] [[customs]]. Again, [[ritual]] itself has been fathered by [[myths]]. Rituals are often at first [[social]], later becoming [[economic]] and finally acquiring the [[sanctity]] and [[dignity]] of religious [[ceremonial]]. Ritual may be [[personal]] or [[group]] in [[practice]]—or both—as [[illustrated]] by [[prayer]], [[dancing]], and [[drama]].

90:5.3 [[Words]] become a part of [[ritual]], such as the use of terms like [[amen]] and [[selah]]. The [[habit]] of swearing, profanity, [[represents]] a [[prostitution]] of former ritualistic [[repetition]] of [[holy]] [[names]]. The making of [[pilgrimages]] to [[sacred]] [[shrines]] is a very [[ancient]] [[ritual]]. The ritual next grew into elaborate ceremonies of [[purification]], cleansing, and sanctification. The [[initiation]] [[ceremonies]] of the [[primitive]] tribal [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_societies secret societies] were in reality a crude [[religious]] rite. The [[worship]] [[technique]] of the olden [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] was just one long [[performance]] of accumulated religious [[ritual]]. Ritual finally [[developed]] into the [[modern]] types of social ceremonials and religious [[worship]], services embracing [[prayer]], [[song]], responsive [[reading]], and other [[individual]] and [[group]] spiritual [[devotions]].

90:5.3 [[Words]] become a part of [[ritual]], such as the use of terms like [[amen]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selah selah]. The [[habit]] of swearing, profanity, [[represents]] a [[prostitution]] of former ritualistic [[repetition]] of [[holy]] [[names]]. The making of [[pilgrimages]] to [[sacred]] [[shrines]] is a very [[ancient]] [[ritual]]. The ritual next grew into elaborate ceremonies of [[purification]], cleansing, and sanctification. The [[initiation]] [[ceremonies]] of the [[primitive]] tribal [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_societies secret societies] were in reality a crude [[religious]] rite. The [[worship]] [[technique]] of the olden [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mystery_cults mystery cults] was just one long [[performance]] of accumulated religious [[ritual]]. Ritual finally [[developed]] into the [[modern]] types of social ceremonials and religious [[worship]], services embracing [[prayer]], [[song]], responsive [[reading]], and other [[individual]] and [[group]] spiritual [[devotions]].

90:5.4 The [[priests]] evolved from [[shamans]] up through [[oracles]], diviners, singers, [[dancers]], weathermakers, guardians of religious [[relics]], [[temple]] custodians, and foretellers of [[events]], to the status of actual directors of religious [[worship]]. [[Eventually]] the office became hereditary; a continuous [[priestly]] [[caste]] arose.

90:5.4 The [[priests]] evolved from [[shamans]] up through [[oracles]], diviners, singers, [[dancers]], weathermakers, guardians of religious [[relics]], [[temple]] custodians, and foretellers of [[events]], to the status of actual directors of religious [[worship]]. [[Eventually]] the office became hereditary; a continuous [[priestly]] [[caste]] arose.

90:5.5 As [[religion]] evolved, [[priests]] began to specialize according to their innate [[talents]] or special predilections. Some became singers, others prayers, and still others sacrificers; later came the [[orators]]—preachers. And when [[religion]] became institutionalized, these [[priests]] claimed to "hold the keys of heaven."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_16]

90:5.5 As [[religion]] evolved, [[priests]] began to specialize according to their innate [[talents]] or special predilections. Some became singers, others prayers, and still others sacrificers; later came the [[orators]]—preachers. And when [[religion]] became institutionalized, these [[priests]] claimed to "hold the keys of heaven."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Gospel_of_matthew#Chapter_16]

90:5.6 The [[priests]] have always sought to impress and awe the common people by conducting the religious [[ritual]] in an [[ancient]] [[tongue]] and by sundry magical passes so to [[mystify]] the [[worshipers]] as to enhance their own [[piety]] and [[authority]]. The great [[danger]] in all this is that the [[ritual]] tends to become a substitute for [[religion]].

90:5.6 The [[priests]] have always sought to impress and awe the common people by conducting the religious [[ritual]] in an [[ancient]] [[tongue]] and by sundry magical passes so to [[mystify]] the [[worshipers]] as to enhance their own [[piety]] and [[authority]]. The great [[danger]] in all this is that the [[ritual]] tends to become a substitute for [[religion]].

90:5.9 Presented by a [[Melchizedek]] of [[Nebadon]].

90:5.9 Presented by a [[Melchizedek]] of [[Nebadon]].

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[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]

[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]