Research source

There is something dangerous and fatal in the air; every one should be on the watch, and not tempt the schedim…

Date of account: Published 1879
Source: Demonology and Devil-lore
Reference: Demonology and Devil-lore · selected passage 53
Rights: public_domain
Language: English
Record updated: 2026-08-24

Record summary

There is something dangerous and fatal in the air; every one should be on the watch, and not tempt the schedim (demons) in any way

Published source text

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Source passage

Source text · mention only

There is something dangerous and fatal in the air; every one should be on the watch, and not tempt the schedim (demons) in any way. Have a strict eye upon your cattle, say the Jews, for the sorceress will get into your stables, mount your cows and goats, bring diseases upon them, and turn their milk sour. In the latter case, try to lay your hand upon the suspected person; shut her up in a room with a basin of sour milk, and beat the milk with a hazel-wand, pronouncing God's name three times. Whilst you are doing this, the sorceress will make great lamentation, for the blows are falling upon her. Only stop when you see blue flames dancing on the surface of the milk, for then the charm is broken. If at nightfall a beggar comes to ask for a little charcoal to light his fire, be very careful not to give it, and do not let him go without drawing him three times by his coat-tail; and without losing time, throw some large handfuls of salt on the fire.

Historical context

Contextual commentary · mention only

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Modern context

Contextual commentary · mention only

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