LUNACY / LUNATIC
The term “lunatic” originates from the Latin word ‘lunaticus’, meaning “moonstruck.” Historically, it was believed that mental disorders were influenced by the phases of the moon, particularly the full moon. Consequently, those with such disorders, especially epilepsy, were labeled as lunatics. Ancient societies and astrologers attributed these conditions to lunar influences, despite the lack of scientific evidence supporting this belief.
Lunatics in the Bible
In the Bible, “lunatic” is used to describe individuals suffering from severe mental or physical ailments. One notable reference is in the Gospels, where Jesus heals a boy described as a lunatic, likely suffering from epilepsy.
Healing of the Lunatic Child (Mt 17:14-18): A man approached Jesus amidst a crowd, kneeling and pleading for mercy on behalf of his son: “Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.”
Healing the Sick and Demon-Possessed: Jesus’ healing ministry extended to many who were sick and demon-possessed, demonstrating His authority over both physical and spiritual afflictions. “And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them” (Mt 4:24). “When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick” (Mt 8:16).
Jesus and Lunatics
Along with other sick people, Jesus cured the lunatics. “His fame spread to all of Syria, and they brought to him all who were sick with various diseases and racked with pain, those who were possessed, lunatics, and paralytics, and he cured them” (Mt 4:24).
Another healing of Jesus involved a lunatic with demon possession. During the transfiguration, the father of a lunatic brought him to the nine apostles who were at the foot of the mountain. They failed to cure the child. So, when Jesus came down the mountain, the father said to Jesus, “Lord, have pity on my son, for he is a lunatic and suffers severely; often he falls into fire, and often into water” (Mt 17:15). In Mark, the father states, “Whenever the spirit seizes him, it throws him down and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth and becomes stiff all over” (Mk 9:17-18). “The spirit throws him into a fit and he foams at the mouth; it scarcely ever leaves him and is wearing him out” (Lk 9:39). Though the symptoms were of epilepsy, the father considered it as lunatic and demon influence. Hence, the condition of the boy was severe and needed divine intervention for a cure.
The father made a mistake in requesting Jesus: “If you can do anything, have pity on us and help us” (Mk 9:22b). The father lost his hope in getting the cure because of the failure of the nine apostles and because of the severe symptoms repeated even in the presence of Jesus. When Jesus questioned the father’s doubt, the father cried out saying: “I do believe, but help the little faith I have” (Mk 9:24). That was the key to getting the cure. Jesus empowered the father’s faith and gave a complete cure to the boy.
Modern Understanding and Church Teaching
The Catholic Church recognizes the importance of both spiritual and medical approaches to mental health. Pope Francis has emphasized that “Christ took all suffering on himself, even mental illness.” This understanding encourages Catholics to view mental illness not as a moral failing or lack of faith, but as a medical condition deserving of compassion and treatment.
The California bishops, in their pastoral letter “Hope and Healing,” addressed the misconception that mental health treatment is incompatible with Catholic faith: “Some Christians harbor suspicions about psychiatry or clinical psychology and question their compatibility with the Catholic faith. […] However, good science that recognizes the life and dignity of people and the Catholic faith are never at odds. Medical science has discovered many useful treatments to help those with mental illness, and Catholics should welcome and make use of these – including medications, psychotherapy, and other medical interventions.”
This stance aligns with the Church’s long history of caring for those with mental illnesses. As early as the fourth century, there were records of institutions caring for the mentally ill in Christian communities.
Pope St. John Paul II emphasized the importance of compassionate care for those suffering from mental health challenges: “The role of those who care for depressed persons and who do not have a specifically therapeutic task consists above all in helping them to rediscover their self-esteem, confidence in their own abilities, interest in the future, and the desire to live. It is therefore important to stretch out a hand to the sick, to make them perceive the tenderness of God, to integrate them into a community of faith and life in which they can feel accepted, understood, supported, and respected; in a word, in which they can love and be loved.”
REFLECTION
These biblical accounts of healing offer profound lessons and encouragement for Christians today:
1. Compassion for the Afflicted: Just as Jesus showed compassion and care for those suffering from various ailments, we are called to show empathy and support for those struggling with physical, mental, or spiritual afflictions. Our response should be one of love, understanding, and practical help.
2. Faith in Christ’s Power: The healings performed by Jesus underscore the power and authority He holds over all creation. As believers, we are encouraged to have faith in His ability to heal and restore, trusting in His sovereignty and goodness.
3. Prayer and Intercession: The Bible teaches us the importance of prayer and intercession for those who are suffering. Like the father who brought his son to Jesus, we should bring our concerns and the needs of others to God in prayer, believing that He hears and responds.
4. Hope in Restoration: The ultimate hope for believers is found in the promise of complete restoration and healing in God’s kingdom. While we may not see every healing in this life, we hold onto the hope that in eternity, all will be made new and whole.
5. Stigma and Support: Mental health and neurological conditions can still carry a stigma in modern society. As Christians, we should work to eliminate this stigma, offering support and advocating for proper care and treatment for those affected.
The biblical accounts of Jesus healing the lunatic and others afflicted with various diseases serve as powerful reminders of His compassion, power, and the hope we have in Him. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love and care in our interactions with those who suffer, upholding them in prayer and offering tangible support. In doing so, we bear witness to the transformative power of Jesus’ healing touch in our world today.