Page:Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.djvu/225

Rh of error. To be at ease under the influence of animal magnetism is worse than dis-ease, or discomfort, under sin. In no instance is its effect other than the effect of illusion. Any seeming benefit derived therefrom is proportionate only to one's faith in error.

Animal magnetism has no scientific principle; for God is the Principle of, and governs, all that is real, harmonious, and eternal, and His power is neither animal nor human, but divine.

Its basis being a belief, and this belief an error, animal magnetism, or mesmerism, is a mere negation, possessing neither intelligence nor power.

There is but one attraction, namely, that of Spirit. The pointing of the needle to the pole symbolizes this all-embracing power, or the magnetism of Mind.

The planets have no more power over man than over his Maker, since God governs both the universe and man. Reflecting His power, man has dominion over heaven and earth, and all their hosts.

One of the grandest features of Biblical history is its honesty. Its reformatory purpose spares no error. The portrayal of Judas was no pleasant task for the loving ambassadors of Truth, but they nevertheless fulfilled it.

It is due to this period, — in which Christian Science is introduced, and the sovereignty of Mind insisted upon, — to protect humanity from abuse by mortal mind, when that mind is unrestrained by law. The belief that one mind can act upon another without being known in that action, and without the actor being seen in propria persona, suggests the need of knowing your enemy and the means of self-defence.