Arbitrary criticism of the Biblical narratives of the raising
of the "dead."--Facts which it ignores.--The subject
related to the phenomena of trance, and records of
premature burial.--The resuscitation in Elisha's tomb
probably historical.--Jesus' raising of the ruler's
daughter plainly such a case.--His raising of the widow's
son probably such.--The hypothesis that his raising of
Lazarus may also have been such critically examined.--The
record allows this supposition.--Further considerations
favoring it: 1. The supposition threatens no real interest
of Christianity.--2. Enhances the character of the act as a
work of mercy.--3. Is independent of the belief of the
witnesses of the act.--4. Is coherent with the general
conception of the healing works of Jesus as wrought by a
peculiar psychical power.--Other cases.--The resurrection
of Jesus an event in a wholly different order of
things.--The practical result of regarding these
resuscitations as in the order of nature. 47