medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
That is probably one branch of the theory behind a sermon that was
inflicted on me as a child:
God always answers prayer:
1. yes
2. no
3. wait
Even at age 11 I found problems with this.
DW
George R. Hoelzeman wrote:
> medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
>
> Based on my reading of Medieval descriptions, as well as contemporary experience, the idea previously posted of "post hoc, etc." is pretty much it. The
> "petitioner" does their part then waits for the anticipated result. I'm not completely clear on when practices like novenas (9 day cycles of prayer) begin, but
> definitely there were timeframes for a variety of Medieval and modern petitions (end of the procession, end of the fast, etc). Of course, it also seems that
> continuing a petition until the desired results occur can also be seen as success.
>
> If the requested results were not forthcoming by the "deadline" then there might be defacing of an image, or turning to a different saint. This is similar to one
> of the theories behind the multiplication of deities in Hinduism: if one does not work ask a different one until success occurs - that's the diety for that
> problem. I seem to recall some preaching from this era which encourages this approach based on the Gospel parable of the Unjust Judge. Alternately, we
> are all familiar with ex voto offerings and the like as the result of perceived success in petition.
>
> Sadly, I cannot point to a textual discussion on this, but a cursory review of ex votos and defacements would provide a treasure trove of practical example.
>
> At least, that's my perspective. It could be less than completely correct.
>
> George (asking until it happens)
>
> On Sat, 15 Dec 2007 12:48:57 -0800, Jeri Westerson wrote:
>
>
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>> medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
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>
>
>> I wonder what constitutes success? Or failure, for that matter.
>>
>
>
>> Jeri Westerson
>>
>
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