The Literal Meaning of Genesis
Whichever of these opinions is the right one, we ought not to be careless in our assertions. But of one thing there should be no doubt: corporeal images seen in the spirit are not always signs of other things, whether they are seen in waking hours, in sleep, or in sickness; but it would be a strange thing if an ecstasy could ever take place without the likenesses of bodily things in it having a meaning.
28. There is, of course, no cause for wonder if even those possessed by a devil occasionally speak the truth about objects beyond the reach of their senses at the time. This, to be sure, happens by some mysterious union with the evil spirit, so that the tormenter and his victim seem to be one and the same spirit. But when a good spirit seizes or ravishes the spirit of a man to direct it to an extraordinary vision, there can be no doubt that the images are signs of other things which it is useful to know, for this is a gift of God. The discernment of these experiences is certainly a most difficult task when the evil spirit acts in a seemingly peaceful manner and, without tormenting the body, possesses a man's spirit and says what he is able, sometimes even speaking the truth and disclosing useful knowledge of the future. In this case he transforms himself, according to Scripture, as if into an angel of light,®> in order that, once having gained his victim's confidence in matters that are manifestly good, he may then lure his victim into his snares. This spirit, so far as I know, cannot be recognized except by that gift mentioned by St. Paul, where he speaks of the different gifts of God: .. . to another the distinguishing of spirits.
CHAPTER 14
Intellectual vision is not deceived; in the other kinds of vision deception is not always harmful.
But when the evil spirit has achieved his purpose and led someone on to what is contrary to good morals or the rule of faith, it is no great achievement to discern his presence—for in that case there are many who discern him. But the gift of dis-