Glitch Bottle Podcast [Part 2] #167 - Grimoires, Demons & Catholic Theology with Jimmy Akin
Aug 25, 2025
In this intriguing discussion, Jimmy Akin, a Catholic theologian and philosopher, delves into the nature of exorcisms and the Church's views on demons, magic, and spirit summoning. He clarifies misconceptions around demonic possession and shares insights on how exorcism practices have evolved. The conversation also explores near-death experiences and the philosophical questions of divine hiddenness and evil. Akin encourages listeners to navigate these complex topics with critical thinking while celebrating faith's enigmatic nature.
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Murder Victim's Spirit Helped Solve His Death
- A 1930s Italian case reportedly involved a murdered man's spirit inhabiting a girl to reveal his killer.
- After giving clues that led to justice, the spirit left when asked, suggesting a purgatorial soul, not a demon.
No Rite To Check Demonic Influence On Prelates
- There is no specific liturgical rite to test whether clergy obtained office via demonic means.
- Investigation would rely on objective evidence-gathering, interviews, and historical reconstruction, not spirit consultation.
Scholarship Should Reassess Hermetic Texts
- The Church should let academic scholarship re-evaluate ancient sources like the Corpus Hermeticum.
- Useful elements can be distinguished from error by critical, historically informed study.
