DREAM, FAITH AND FANTASY IN THE HISTORY OF CURING: FROM ASKLEOPIUS TO “GHOST SURGERY”

Abstract

The author analyzes one of the most interesting phenomena of spiritual practice and culture - lucid dreaming with the aim of curing a sick person. The study utilizes materials from various time periods - from the ancient Greek (the practice of addressing Asclepius and further decyphering of dreams by asclepiades) to the Christian, as well as the modern one. Examples from field work materials are used.