Religion, spirituality, and epilepsy

Abstract

This review provides responses to four questions on epilepsy, religion, and spirituality. Firstly, have early religious beliefs and writings stigmatized and discriminated against epilepsy and if so, what has been done to correct this? We provide textual evidence suggesting an affirmative response. Secondly, which religious luminaries, gods, saints, and religious symbols have connections with epilepsy? We argue that the evidence to suggest that St Paul, Joan of Arc, the Prophet Mohammed, and others had epilepsy is weak and emphasizes the limitations of imposing contemporary neurological frameworks upon them. Furthermore, we discuss how different faith traditions identify Divine figures, as associated with epilepsy, and the use of religious symbols in healing. Thirdly, why is religiosity associated with having epilepsy? We review empirical studies focusing upon the epileptic personality, religiosity, mysticism, and religious conversion and find that, while some studies suggest that religious experience may be associated with epilepsy, this cannot be taken as proven. Fourthly, in what ways has religion been a force for good for those with epilepsy? We discuss the role of Christian social reform in caring for individuals with epilepsy and that of religion in coping with the condition. We conclude by arguing that the relationship between religion and epilepsy has been overstated in the academic literature.