Epilepsy and religious experiences: Voodoo possession.
E Carrazana, J Detoledo, W Tatum, R Rivas-Vasquez, G Rey, S Wheeler
Epilepsia February 1, 1999 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1157.1999.tb02081.x via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractEpileptic seizures have long been linked to religion, especially through the idea of spirit possession. This report presents five cases in which seizures were first blamed on Voodoo spirit possession, and it examines this attribution within the framework of Voodoo beliefs.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Case series Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 5 |
| Population | Individuals with epileptic seizures attributed to Voodoo spirit possession |
| Citations | 71 |
| Key finding | Five cases of epileptic seizures were initially attributed to Voodoo spirit possession, and this attribution is discussed in the context of the Voodoo belief system. |
Abstract
Epileptic seizures have a historical association with religion, primarily through the concept of spirit possession. Five cases where epileptic seizures were initially attributed to Voodoo spirit possession are presented. The attribution is discussed within the context of the Voodoo belief system.