Bible Discussion Thread

In classical Greek pharmakeia referred to the use of drugs whether for medicinal or more sinister purposes, e.g., poisoning. In the New Testament, however, it is invariably associated with the occult, both in Galatians [5:20] and in Revelation, where it occurs twice ( Rev 9:21; 18:23). English translations usually render pharmakeia as "witchcraft" (KJV, NIV) or "sorcery" (RSV, NEB). These words correctly convey the idea of black magic and demonic control, but they miss the more basic meaning of drug use. In New Testament times pharmakeia in fact denoted the use of drugs with occult properties for a variety of purposes including, especially, abortion.

The Greek, pharmakeia, can also denote the casting of 'spells or incantations', along with as you mentioned, use of drugs as part of witchcraft & sorceries. Brother Mishael might be able to enlighten us if there is any history of such use of drugs/potions, whether in olden or modern days that he has learned. I wonder what they used, or concocted, to bring on their desired outcomes.