Exorcista

Operations instruments and practitioners · A Chymical Dictionary

At a Glance

The word. A practitioner of spirit-calling, condemned as superstitious by the dictionary.

In the book. Necromancy and Nigromancy receive fuller and disapproving descriptions elsewhere.

A place to read. The historical definition below, 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 21; facsimile PDF page 349.

Historical Definition

Exorcista is a superstitious practitioner who calls up spirits.

Meaning

The compiler’s judgement is part of the gloss. The practitioner is called superstitious and defined through calling up spirits. The entry supplies no ceremony, intention or description of the beings called.

Use in the Book

Necromancy and Nigromancy receive fuller and disapproving descriptions elsewhere. Magia is divided into a lawful natural wisdom and an unlawful diabolical kind. These entries show that the dictionary evaluates practices as well as naming them. Exorcista should be read within that historical classification rather than as an endorsement.

Places to Read

Magia. Magic divided into lawful natural wisdom and forbidden knowledge through evil spirits.

Necromancy. A condemned art defined by the appearance and interrogation of the dead.

Nigromancy. Apparent command of spirits, condemned as harmful to those who exercise it.

Historical source: 1650 dictionary, unnumbered definition page 21; facsimile PDF page 349 — Facsimile

Sources. A Chymicall Dictionary 1650, s.v. Exorcista

See also. Magia; Necromancy; Nigromancy