Davies, T. Witton "Magic, Divination, & Demonology Among the Hebrews" [Clarke, 1898]

DAVIES, T. Witton. Magic, Divination, and Demonology Among the Hebrews and Their Neighbours: Including an Examination of Biblical References and of the Biblical Terms.

London: James Clarke & Co.; Leipzig: M. Spirgatis, [1898]. First edition. 7.75” x 5.25”, xvi + 132pp. Publisher's olive green cloth lettered in gilt. Contemporary presentation inscription, apparently in the author's hand, to Rev. E. W. Davies dated 6 February 1903 on the front free endpaper. Some light pencil underlining and marginal markings throughout. Hinges secure. Light rubbing at extremities with minor wear to spine ends; text block clean and sound. Very Good.

Originally submitted as Davies's doctoral dissertation at the University of Leipzig, this early study examines beliefs surrounding magic, divination, necromancy, demonology, and counter-charms in ancient Hebrew culture and neighboring civilizations including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Phoenicians, Syrians, and Arabs. Published at a time when comparative religion and biblical archaeology were emerging academic disciplines, the work brought together biblical scholarship, folklore, anthropology, and the history of religion in an effort to place biblical references to supernatural practices within their broader Near Eastern context. The book has long attracted interest from collectors of esoterica for its extensive treatment of ancient magical traditions and demonological beliefs. The apparent authorial presentation inscription adds a further layer of interest to this uncommon first edition.