HYPNOSIS AND RELIGIOUS FAITH CONTINUED...

In his book 'Angels of Light', Herbert E. Freeman includes hypnosis as one of the practices which are condemed by God. He quotes Deuteronomy 18:9 following in which God warns, "Thou shalt not learn to do after the abomination of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone ... that useth divination (fortuneteller), or an observer of times (Soothsayers), or an enchanter (magician), or a consorter with familiar spirits (medium, possessed with a spirit, or spirit guide), or a witch (sorcerer), or a charmer (hypnotist) or a wizard (clairvoyant or psychic), for all that do these thing are an abomination unto the Lord." The words in parenthesis are Mr. Freeman's inserts. 

I feel that Mr. Freeman has misinterpreted much in these verses and especially the interpretation of "charmer" as "hypnotist." The Interpreter's Bible states that "charmer" refers to those who conjure up magical spells. The Pulpit Commentary reads, "A charmer is a dealer in spells, one who by means of spells or charms pretends to achieve some desired results. The verb here used primarily means to bind, and the species of magic indicated is probably that practiced by binding certain knots, whereby it was supposed that the curse or blessing, as the case maybe, was a bond on its object. This was accomplished apparently by incantations ... A species of incantations known to Romans consisted in tying knots with threads of different colors, there in number, which was supposed to become a bond to secure the object." 

In their book, 'The Holy Spirit and You', Dennis and Rita Bennett have shown a profound dislike and misunderstanding of hypnosis by declaring, "Hypnosis is particularly dangerous because it is thought to be a valid form of therapy in psychology and psychiatry, or an alternative anesthesia in medicine and dentistry". Bennett adds, "The fact is the hypnotist, by placing the soul in a passively receptive state even when the hypnotist has no such intention, opens the door to morbid spiritual influences that may bring oppression that lasts for years. Until the person is delivered by prayer and exorcism ... Do not allow yourself to be hypnotized for any reason whatsoever." By these statement, the Bennett's show their prejudice and total misunderstanding of hypnosis. If their interpretation is correct, the Bennett's should also be concerned about prayer, meditation, chemical anesthesia, and going to sleep (for that period just before you go to sleep is a natural state of hypnosis) for the individual is in a similar state to hypnosis in all those situations. 

Jesus indicated by his teachings that we should help people to live life to the fullest and to relieve pain whenever possible. Hypnosis is a means to help people live a better and more abundant life and is a means of reducing and/or eliminating pain. Would the Bennett's suggest that we should not use chemical anesthesia for surgery because we might open our mind to evil spirits? Perhaps they agree with the doctor at Dr. Esdaile's trial who stated the the use of hypnosis as an anesthetic was sacrilegious because God meant for people to feel pain? 

In their book, 'Hypnosis and Christianity', Martin and Deidra Bagdon show their lack of knowledge when they wrote, "Before hypnotism becomes the new panacea from the pulpit, followed by a plethora of books on the subject; its claims, methods and long-term results should be considered. Arthur Shapiro has said, 'One man's religion is another man's superstition, and one man's magic is another man's science.' Hypnosis has become science and medicine for some Christians with little proof of its validity, longevity of its results or understanding of its nature. Because of so many unanswered questions about its usefulness and so many potential dangers about its usage, Christians would be wise to shun hypnosis." I ask, "What unanswered questions about its usefulness and what are the potential dangers?"

The Bagdon's should be reminded that people have been harmed by the misuse of the Christian religion as well as all other religions. Should one not want to be a Christian because some have misused it. Should one not go to a Christian healer because some Christian healers have misused the concept for their own gain? The Bagdon's's apparently have not studied hypnosis or have not studied it without bias, or they would not be afraid of its use. If studied and understood, they might even come to appreciate the value of hypnosis. Many of God's gifts have been used incorrectly, but that should not distract from the gift when used for the benefit of mankind and to the glory of God. God blesses all our activities that are beneficial to people. 

Hypnosis should not be condemned as anti-religious just because some people misuse it. Some oppose hypnosis because the say it is used by the occult, but do they condemn prayer because prayer is used for occultic purposes? Hypnosis can be a very helpful tool in counseling. Without apology and when appropriate, hypnosis can be used for growth, health and the benefit of people. 

In an address to the National Association of Clergy, Hypnotherapist Reverend Fred R. Krauss reported that religion has traditionally used hypnotic techniques in a variety of ways. The atmosphere of the religious service is geared to the induction of the trance state. The architecture, decor and religious symbols have a profound spiritual effect on believers. The alter, cross and flickering candles provide a fixation point for concentration and meditation. In prayer, most Christians bow their head and close their eyes which can be a very similar experience to hypnosis. 

While preparing this article and coming from a Methodist background it was interesting to learn that the the use of eye closure in prayer probably began with the revivals of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. Because Wesley was not allow to preach in the pulpit of most of the established churches, he began to preach outside. Deprived of the usual eye fixation points provided by the religious symbols (candles, crosses, altars, etc.) and bothered by the discomforts and distractions of the open-air gatherings, the preacher had to rely on enthusiasm and other means to hold the audience's attention. "Bow your heads and close your eyes" became a regular part of the services. The practice became standardized and is now used throughout most Christian churches. 

Reverend Krauss continues by stating that it has been said that prayer and meditation were the nicest hypnotic inductions of all. Everything is there that should be, including a harmony of body, mind, and spirit that enhances our communication with God. By assuring the appropriate posture, closing eyes, bowing heads, listening and responding with, "Amen." Praying in silence draws attention from the outer to the inner world of reality. In the sermon, the pastor uses voice inflections, modulations and repetitive ideas with anecdotes, Bible stories, and other illustrations.

Prayer and meditation are traditional Christian disciplines that parallel what we call auto-suggestion. Of course, the auto-suggestions are not the only aspects of prayer for through prayer, we are able to open our minds to God. When we are open and responsive, prayer is basically communication with God. If I understand Reverend Krauss, he is pointing out that the use of hypnotic procedures in worship and Christian experience is blessed by God. 

During counseling and hypnotherapy, I often tell a story to bring home a point or allow the client hearing the story to come to his or her own meaning to the story. Roger Ring in a seminar conducted at a past College of Chaplains convention called these "Parables, Metaphors, and Healing Stories." Jesus often spoke in parables or used stories which still bring to mind vivid word pictures which teach us something important about life. 

The writer of Proverbs 23:7 states that as a person thinketh in his/her heart so is he/she. St. Paul wrote, "Whatsoever man soweth that shall he reap." (Gal 6:7) This says to me that what is sown by the conscious mind through thoughts and images into the subconscious mind tends to become a reality. Mental images give the subconscious mind a model to work towards: good or bad. Illustration: Think back to a time when you were angry; feel it, experience it and let it go. Think back to a time when you were really happy; feel it, experience and keep it. By thought, you make feelings present again. The use of positive imagery improves life and health. 

Until there is an image in the mind there can be no reality. All great inventions began with a thought in the mind. The inventor was able to visualize or image the invention before he could bring it to reality. The same is true of great music, great writing, great living. The author of Proverbs 28:18 also wrote that where there is no vision, the people perish. 

I would like to share with you some healing stories and how they may be used when working with someone who would respond well to religious or spiritual imagery. The first can be used with someone in the midst of a crisis or one who is having trouble dealing with stress. 

IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM: 
For just a moment, let this story of the disciples in the midst of the storm speak to you the message you are ready to hear. Just image that you have been with Jesus all day and he has been teaching from a boat because there were so many people there to hear him. Jesus concludes his message and needs a rest so he tells you and the other disciples to sail with him to the other side of the sea. As the boat sails for the other side, Jesus lies down and goes to sleep. You and the rest of the company decide to do some fishing. It is a terrific day and you have a big catch of fish. All of you are happy. Meanwhile the gentle waves rocked the boat back and forth, back and forth, which allows Jesus to sleep soundly. As is so often the case in this region, the weather can change drastically in a very short time. Suddenly the sky turns black and winds began to blow. The storm winds intensify and the wave now rock the boat violently. Lightening stricks the water near the boat and the boat rocks and water crashes over the side into the boat. You are afraid that the boat will sink. One of the disciples who is also afraid cries out, "Wake up Jesus! Don't you care that we perish?" As you use your imagination, let that storm on the Sea of Galilee represent any storm that my be going on in your personal life. Do you feel like the disciples? Can you cry out, "Wake up Jesus!" Jesus responded to the cries of the disciples by reassuring them of his presence. "Peace, be still, I am with you." When the disciples heard those words, the heart of each disciples began to grow calm. At almost the same time, it was as if the storm was listening for the storm itself became calm. If you listen now you can hear Jesus say to you, "Peace be still, I am with you." Peace can come to you with or without a change in your circumstances. In the Bible, the word "peace" never simply means just the absence of trouble or discord. When Jesus comes to us and speaks "Peace be still, I am with you," he is offering the gift of his presence -- not just to resolve disharmony but to assure us that he is with us to help us overcome or endure. No, you are not on the Sea of Galilee, but you feel the winds of the storm and perhaps you are questioning your resources to cope with the situation. The storm in your life may be caused by unrealized dreams, dashed hopes, impairment of health, domestic difficulties, tension of the job, insecurity of position, inadequate finances or conflicts with family or friends. When the storms of life come, we want to cry out,"Wake up Jesus! Don't you care that I perish?" Then we hear him say, "Peace be still, I am with you." When the uncertain winds of anxiety blow, there is a steady safety in the presence of Jesus. When the harsh winds of illness or injury blow, there is calm and comfort in the presence of Jesus. When the cold, bleak winds of sorrow and grief blow , there is peace and security in the presence of Jesus. I am not saying that Jesus is a magic cure, but he is with us to either still the storm or help us cope with the storm. To experience the presence of Jesus is to experience peace in the midst of the storm. May you experience peace today. 

THE LITTLE FISH IN SEARCH OF WATER: 
(Working with a woman who had difficulty experiencing God's presence, I told her this story.) There is a modern parable of a little fish which I would like to share with you as you remain relaxed and at peace. The little fish was swimming near the edge of the river and he heard a teacher speaking to his students. As the teacher and the students were sitting on the banks of the river, the little fish could hear the teacher tell his students, "Water is absolutely necessary for life. Without water, we would all perish in a few days." The little fish thought, "If what the man said is true, I'd better find some of that precious substance called, 'water' or I shall die in a few days." The little fish found other fish and asked them where he could find water, but note of them knew where he could find water. From stream to stream, the frightened fish searched for this life-sustaining water. The little fish found the wisest fish in the river and ask him, "Please, where can I find the precious substance called 'water' that will give me life." "Water," replied the wise fish, "You were conceived and born in water. Water is your environment, water supports your very life. You are surrounded by water."
You ask, "Where is God?" You are surrounded by God's loving spiritual presence right now. You were conceived in in it. You were born in it and your life is sustained by it. You are immersed in God's loving presence. Allow yourself to feel God's presence all about you as the little fish felt the water all about him. 

STEWED PRUNES: 
(I use this story with a person who had grown up with an opinion of God as a very judgmental being.) As I listened to your description of your upbringing and early religious training, I am reminded of the mother who served stewed prunes for desert one night for her family. When her son balked at eating his prunes, she said, "God does not like that, God doesn't like little boys who don't eat their prunes. God will be very angry." In spite of his mother's warning, the boy refused to eat the prunes, so she sent him to bed, saying, "You have been a very bad boy and God is very angry with you." A short time after he went to bed, a terrible thunderstorm broke loose - lightening flashed, thunder clapped, the wind whipped the rain against the window. The mother thought that the boy would be terribly frightened so she went up to comfort him. When she entered the room, he was standing at the window with his face pressed against the glass, saying, "My, such a fuss to make over a few prunes." 

You have often heard that God was angry with you and so it has been difficult for you to feel comfortable with yourself and life. Keith Miller in his book, A Second Touch, tells how he was caught in the rules and regulations of the religious life. He writes that he felt that God was recruiting a sort of "spiritual trumpet corps" and that all the members were supposed to act alike and respond in the same way or God would be angry with them. Through an understanding of God's love, he came to see that God did not want a trumpet corps, but an orchestra. We are not all supposed to sound alike, because each of us is a different shaped instrument. You don't have to be like everybody else, but just play your own part in the orchestra. Know God's love for you and that Jesus said, "I am come that you may have life and have it more abundantly. 

REMOVE THE WRAPPING AND SET HIM FREE: 
In dealing with a person who is experiencing anxiety, if I determined that the client is familiar with the scriptures, I will use the following guided imagery. "Imagine or visualize that you are bound by your anxiety which is represented by bandages. With these bandages, you are unable to move freely and it is uncomfortable. I share with you this story from the Gospel of St. John. Jesus went to visit his friend Lazarus. When Jesus arrives, he is told by Lazarus' sister Mary that Lazarus had died. Jesus tells the people to roll the stone away from his tomb. He calls Lazarus to come out and lazarus does, but he is bound by grave wrappings and cannot move freely. Jesus tells them to remove the wrappings from Lazarus and set him free. Jesus is saying to you, "Remove the wrapping of your anxieties and fears so that you can be free and live life to its fullest." If you want the wrappings removed, one of your fingers will become very light, light enough to float up. That is right, just let it float up. Have the person name each of his/her anxieties as the wrappings are removed. The wrappings are now gone and you are free to move and live life more confidently." 

FOR THOSE WHO DOUBT THE VALUE OF HYPNOSIS: 
"Hypnosis just can't be as helpful as you suggest. It is just too easy." Perhaps you have heard something like this or a similar statement concerning hypnosis. For those who doubt the value of hypnosis, I tell you this story found in II Kings 4:1-15 concerning Naaman the leper. Now this story has nothing to do with hypnosis, or does it? It does have something to do with belief and expectation. If Naaman were to live in our day, he would wear the medal of honor and would probably by the Chairman of the Military Joint Chief of Staff. He had a young captive taken in battle with Israel. She was the maid of Naaman's wife. When it was discovered that Naaman had leprosy, she told her mistress of the Prophet Elisha in her home country of Israel. The maid was certain that Elisha could work a miracle and restore his health. Following the advice of his wife's maid, Naaman set out for Israel with an official letter from the King of Syria and gold worth several thousands of dollars at today's rate. When he arrived at Elisha's house, Elisha sent a messenger out to greet him. The messenger said, "Go and wash in the Jordan River seven times and your flesh will be restored and you shall be cleaned." Naaman was angry because Elisha did not come out to meet him and perform some spectacular act to restore his health. Instead, a massager tells him to go wash in the Jordan River. Naaman probably thought to himself, "What a waste of time. We have better rivers in Syria than the Jordan and our rivers cannot heal." Naaman left Elisha's house in anger, but his servant said, "If the Prophet had commanded you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How about following his suggestion that you wash and be clean." In order for healing to take place, Naaman had to change his belief system and expectation. If Naaman could muster enough faith to believe then perhaps change could be possible. In truth when Naaman altered his belief system, went to the Jordan, bathed seven times he was healed. Those who have trouble believing that hypnosis can be helpful need to be reminded of the power of one's belief system. Believe it will work, expect it to work, visualize or imagine it working and practice it working. Only as Naaman could believe, expect, visualize or imagine and actually go to the Jordan seven times could he be healed. 

THE SOWER AND THE SEED: 
(I use this story to illustrate that within us is the power to change.) Jesus once told a parable of a sower who went forth to sow seeds for a harvest. This parable speaks of a sower, seeds, soil, and harvest. A man went out to sow seeds in his field. Some of the seeds fell on the pathway that runs between the field. Because the earth was very hard, the seed could not get a hold in the ground and the birds ate the seed. Some of the seeds feel on the thin soil and though the plants came up quickly, they soon died because the seeds could not develop deep roots. Some seeds fell on the soil where they could grow, but there were so many weeds that the new plants were choked by the weeds. Other seeds feel on good soil where the plants came up they produced many times over. I am aware that this parable is usually interpreted to show that the four types of soils represent four different types of people. I would like to suggest another interpretation that the four type of soils mean; that within each person is the possibility of responded in four different ways. You can allow the positive suggestion given to you today to fall on hard ground where they are not allowed to grow. You can allow them to take hold, but not firmly committed to change, you do not allow them to take root. You can allow them to be choked out by other thoughts or doubts. But, if you are ready for changes, you allow them to fall on good soil and sink into your subconscious where they are allowed to grow and bear fruit. Within you is the good soil so let the suggestions grow and develop so that you can make the changes you want in your life. (You may open your eyes.) If you listen to the broadcast of a baseball, football or basketball game, you have surely heard the announcer say, "It's a brand new ball game!" If you are a sports fan, you know the announcer means that the score is tied. It is like starting over again. The past is still there , but we can begin again where we are. In a baseball game, if a team ties the score in the sixth inning, they do not go back to the first inning to start over again. For they keep playing from where they are. We began where we are, but with the proper use of relaxation, imagery, hypnosis and hopeful expectation comes a "brand new ball game." In the years ahead, may those who discount hypnosis, come to see its value. May those who oppose hypnosis on religious grounds come to view it as a gift of God to help us attain the more abundant life.
Jesus said, "The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He hath anointed me to teach the gospel to the poor. He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised." (Luke 4:18) Following this guidance and with the proper use of hypnosis; we can heal the brokenhearted, bring deliverance to those in captivity to pain, fear, and phobias; give sight to the emotionally and spiritually blind, and set at liberty those who are bound by unwanted habits. As members of different denominations and religions, let us join hands in brotherhood to share the blessings of hypnosis with others. 
Copyright © 1998 to the author. Reprinted with kind permission