Mystery or Magic

In Christian Europe, witchcraft beliefs took over 1700 years to recede, and occult practice is still in vogue in certain circles. In Africa, and in Malawi in particular, supernatural beliefs continue to be widespread. Mystery or Magic considers what lies beneath such beliefs: e.g. the need to deal with loss, suffering and death. It then presents Christian responses to these conditions and illustrations from biblical teachings. Some subjects dealt with in detail include: Christianity in Aprtheid South Africa and Malawi today; faith and falsehood in the Old Testament; Hebrew perspectives on sickness, suffering and dealth; Christian affirmations; and boundaries of belief. The author is a theologian, and missionary priest. He is Director of Research at the ecumenical Zomba Theological College, Malawi.