Magic and Religious Cures


Many people believed that illnesses, diseases, and ailments were caused by supernatural beings. In Ireland, they often turned to the bean feasa, the “wise woman” who they believed was able to contact the forces of the otherworld to cure a variety of physical and mental ailments. In 19th century Ireland, some of the practitioners developed reputations which were such that they could attract cases and patients from across a wide area. Moll Anthony of Kildare was one such woman. According to tradition, she was refused a Christian burial upon her death.


But the most famous of these women was Biddy Early, the wise woman of Feakle. Lady Augusta Gregory collected many stories about Biddy, who is said to have died in 1874 after a colourful life involving four husbands. She attracted clients from all over Ireland, and was said to have a magic bottle which she had received from the fairies, a type of crystal ball which allowed her to “see” her client’s problem and diagnose a cure.

There are many holy wells dotted throughout Ireland, which are connected with particular saints. Many of these wells date back to pre-Christian times and have been in use for many millennia. Pagans may have seen the well as an entrance to the otherworld and regarded them as sacred spaces; there are many legends about fairies and river goddesses being found near water. Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon, was visited until the 1970’s, where people prayed, drank water, and sought cures. St. Brigid’s Holy Well in Kildare Town is still visited, especially around the saint’s feast day. The practice of visiting religious shrines, such as Knock and Lourdes, in search of a cure for medical ailments, is also popular.


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