Article August 22, 1908 Issue

Without wishing to enter into any discussion of our...

George Shaw Cook—Rockford, Ill.

Morning Star

Without wishing to enter into any discussion of our critic's claim that hypnotism is a "fake," I would like to deny his assertion that hypnotism is the Christian Science "bogie." Christian Scientists as a class are not afraid of hypnotism, because they know why they do not have to fear it; they are not so foolish as to refuse to recognize hypnotism as a phase of evil mental activity, but they are generally able to disprove its claim to power by their understanding that there is in reality but one power, that of divine good. They are gaining a practical knowledge of the fact that there can in reality be no hypnotism, even though it seems to obtain in belief, for the reason that there is but one universal, omnipresent good. Mind and its manifestation.

Our critic differentiates hypnotism and suggestion by claiming that hypnotism is a trick or "fake," while suggestion is the real power which underlies the cures wrought by Christian Science as well as those in medical practice. One of the definitions in the Century Dictionary is: "Specifically in hypnotism, the insinuation of a belief or impulse into the mind of the subject by any means." In ordinary usage hypnotism, mesmerism, and mental suggestion are synonymous terms, and stand for the supposed power or influence of one or more human minds over other minds. This supposed power is capable [in belief] of being used for evil, and is not the power which effects the cures wrought by Christian Science. The Principle of Christian Science Mind-healing is God. All genuine Christian Science cures are made by reason of man's power to invoke and enforce the law of divine Mind on behalf of the sufferer, and no matter how much may be said to the contrary, there is "none other name given under heaven among men" by which we may be effectually saved and healed than that of Christ. The Mind that "was also in Christ Jesus" is the only saviour, healer, and redeemer of mankind. Jesus was the perfect Exemplar and Wayshower, and Christian Scientists are trying to follow in the way that he pointed out.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
In a recent issue a critic is reported as saying that...
August 22, 1908
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit