Epilepsy
“To be moonstruck, affected by the moon”
Summary
Epilepsy (Greek seleniazomenos, 'moonstruck') appears in the Gospels in connection with the boy whom Jesus healed after his transfiguration. The detailed symptoms recorded—convulsions, foaming, falling into fire and water—provide a clinically accurate description of severe seizure disorder.
☩The Case in the Gospels
Only one specific case of epilepsy appears in the Gospels, recorded by all three Synoptists (Matt 17:15; Mark 9:17-18; Luke 9:39). A father brought his son to Jesus, describing symptoms characteristic of severe seizure disorder: the boy would suddenly cry out, fall down convulsing, foam at the mouth, become rigid, and fall into fire or water during attacks. Matthew uses seleniazomenos ('lunatick' in KJV, 'epileptic' in RV), reflecting the ancient belief that the moon influenced seizures. The term derives from selene, 'moon.'
☩Demonic and Physical Dimensions
The Evangelists attribute this boy's condition to demonic agency, with Jesus commanding the 'foul spirit' to depart (Mark 9:25). Yet Matthew elsewhere appears to distinguish between demon possession and epilepsy, listing them separately: 'those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick' (Matt 4:24). This particular case seems to involve both spiritual oppression and physical symptoms. Jesus's healing addressed the complete person, demonstrating his authority over both spiritual forces and bodily affliction.
