Insanity(lunacy, madness)
Summary
Mental derangement, which in Scripture is sometimes attributed to divine judgment, demonic possession, or natural causes.
☩Biblical Examples
King Saul was tormented by an evil spirit that brought episodes of madness. Nebuchadnezzar was driven from among men to live as a beast until he acknowledged God's sovereignty. David feigned madness before Achish of Gath to escape danger. These cases show various causes and purposes for mental affliction.
☩Demonic Influence
Some forms of insanity in Scripture are connected to demonic activity. The Gadarene demoniac lived among tombs, crying out and cutting himself until Jesus delivered him. The healed man was then found 'clothed and in his right mind,' suggesting the connection between his possession and his madness.
☩Divine Warning
Madness is listed among the curses for disobedience in the covenant warnings. This was not a mechanical result but a consequence of departing from God, the source of wisdom and stability. Conversely, returning to God brings restoration of mind and peace.
Related Verses18 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Insanity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).