Letters From Those Healed By Reading “Science And Health With Key To The
Scriptures”
The Editor of _The Christian Science Journal_ (Falmouth and St. Paul
Streets, Boston, Mass.) holds the original of most of the letters that
authenticate these.
It is something more than a year and a half since I was cured of a
complication of diseases through reading “Science and Health with Key to
the Scriptures.”
Becoming at an early age disgusted with drugs, I learned hygiene, and
practised it faithfully for over twenty years; then I began to lose all
faith in its efficacy, became greatly discouraged, and, as I had never
been cured of a single ailment, I rapidly grew worse in health. Hearing of
this, a dear sister brought me Science and Health. Her admonition was,
“Now read it, E——; I have heard that just the reading of that book has
been known to heal the sick.”
I had read to, and through, the chapter on Healing and Teaching,(8) and
was so deeply interested that I began reading that blessed chapter over
again,—when I found I was cured of my dyspepsia, that I could use my
strength in lifting without feeling the old distressing pain in my side,
and also that the pain in the kidneys only came on at night, waking me out
of sleep. Then I began my first conscious treatments: of course I followed
no formula, and I needed none. A cry for help, knowing it would be
answered; precious texts from the Bible, which had already become like a
new book to me; sweet assurance of faith by the witnessing Spirit; strong
logical conclusions, learned from Science and Health: what a wealth of
material! Before finishing the book, all tendency to my old aches and
pains had left me, and I have been a strong, healthy woman ever since.
My first demonstration with another than myself was also before I had
finished my first reading. My husband was cured of the belief of bilious
fever by not over ten minutes’ treatment; the fever and pain in head and
limbs disappearing in that instantaneous way as soon as I could summon
sufficient courage to offer my services in this, to us, new but glorious
work. He slept soundly that night (the treatment was given about 10 A.
M.), and ate and worked as usual the next day, with no symptoms of a
relapse then or afterward. That was in March, 1888; in the following
August I met in one of our Rocky Mountain berry patches a lady who
complained so bitterly that I felt compelled to offer her treatment. Her
words, when I visited her at her home during Christmas week, will give
some idea of the result:—
“Yes, I am doing three women’s work,—attending to my own and my son’s
housework, and caring for his wife and new-born babe; but I am equal to
it, when I think of all the Lord has done for me! Why, Mrs. S., I was
cured with that first treatment you gave me, I know; because I went out to
gather berries that day and was caught in a drenching shower,—and for ten
years before I could not bear the least exposure without suffering from
those dreadful headaches I told you about, and from dysentery,—but that
day I had neither. I had once been laid out for dead,—lying there
perfectly conscious, hearing my friends grieving over me,—but I did not
want to come to, I suffered so. No, I never have any of those ailments. I
am a well, hearty woman,—and that is not all. I had been seeking religion
for more than twenty years, but I never knew how Christians felt till I
told you I was cured that day on the camp-ground.”
On the first of this year I was so blessed as to receive a course of
lessons from one of our teacher’s students. Now I am only trusting that
the time will come when I may be enabled to teach others the way of Truth,
as well as to add to the many demonstrations God has given me.—E. D. S.
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A student of Christian Science was employed in the Massachusetts State
Prison at Charlestown, to teach the prisoners to make shoes. He carried
his copy of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” and the
_Journal_ with him, and as he had the opportunity would tell the men what
this wonderful truth could do for them, setting them free in a larger and
higher sense than they had dreamed of.
We make extracts from a number of letters that one of the prisoners has
written to those who are interesting themselves in this work.
“_Editor of The Christian Science Journal_:—At the prison, once a week,
there are Christian papers given to the inmates. But none of those papers
point out so clearly the fallibility of the mortal or carnal mind, and the
infallibility of the divine Mind, as does the teaching of Christian
Science.
“I was strangely blind and stupid. I loved sin, and it seemed as though I
never would be able to forsake it. I did everything that would be expected
of one entirely ignorant of God.
“I also had a complication of diseases. I could not begin to describe the
medicines I have taken.
“I no longer look for material treatment, but humbly seek for the divine
assistance of Jesus, through the way Christian Science has taught me. I
am, indeed, an altered man. I now have no more doubt of the way of
salvation than I have of the way to the prison workshop.
“I am very grateful to the students of Christian Science, for the interest
they have taken in me and my fellow-prisoners. Their letters and books
have been of great profit, and in accordance with their wish I have done
what I could for the others.
“I gave the _Journal_ to every man who would accept it, and related my
experience to those who would listen. I told them they need go no farther
than myself to see what the demonstration was; for not only have my eyes
been healed, but many other ailments have disappeared.
“Some of the fellows told me I was becoming religiously insane, but acting
upon your advice, I did not stop to argue with those opposed; and I am
glad to be able to tell you that those who expressed interest were more
than those who opposed.
“The chaplain told me I could keep Science and Health until I got through
with it. I never should get through with that book, but, as others were
waiting for it, I did not like to keep it too long. God bless the author!
“I need have no fear after leaving here; I feel that I can make an honest
living. I can honestly add, that my bad reputation is largely due to my
lack of education. What little I do know, I learned here and in the House
of Correction. I tell you this, for I feel that I must be honest with the
kind friends who have done so much for me.
“Providing I should not be paroled, I shall remain here until the 24th of
next December. God bless you all.—J. C.”
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I am glad to tell how I was healed. Beliefs of consumption, dyspepsia,
neuralgia, piles, tobacco, and bad language held me in bondage for many
years. Doctors that were consulted did nothing to relieve me, and I
constantly grew worse. Nearly two years ago a lady told me that if I would
read a book called “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” I would
be healed. I told her I would “go into it for all it is worth,” and I have
found that it is worth all. I got the book, and read day and night. I saw
that it must be true, and believed that what I could not then understand
would be made clear later.
After some days’ reading I was affected with drowsiness, followed by
vomiting. This lasted several hours; when I fell into a sleep, and awoke
healed. The good I have received, and that I have been able to do in
healing others, has all come from Science and Health. I received some
instructions from teachers; but they did me more harm than good: I asked
for bread, but they gave me a stone. I held to what I could understand of
Science and Health; and the truth does not forsake me, but enables me to
heal others.
Last February, I was called to treat a child that the M. D.’s said was
dying from lung fever; after the third treatment the child got up and ran
about, completely healed. Another child was brought to me, with rupture;
after the second treatment the truss was thrown away. An aged lady was
healed of heart disease and chills, in one treatment. These cases brought
me many more, that were also healed.
The husband of a lady in the State Lunatic Asylum asked me to treat her;
she had been for two years and a half in the asylum, and though taken home
in this time once or twice, she had had to be taken back. After two weeks
of absent treatment, the husband visited her, and the doctor reported
great improvement during the preceding two weeks. At the end of another
two weeks I went with the husband to the asylum, and the doctor told us
that she was well enough to go home. The husband asked the doctor how it
was that she had improved so rapidly, and he said that he could not
account for it. We said nothing about the Christian Science treatment, and
took the lady home. This was about a year ago, and she has remained
perfectly well.
Many cases as striking as this can be referred to in this town, as
evidence that Truth is the healer of sickness as well as of sin.—J. B. H.
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No. 1. A lady friend, who was found to have a severe attack of dysentery,
was assured that such attacks could be cured without medicine, and advised
to take no more. She was more than astonished at the result; for in less
than an hour all pain and other symptoms of the trouble ceased, and she
felt perfectly well the next day.
No. 2. While she was visiting relatives in the country, an infant of
theirs was attacked severely with croup, and appeared to be on the verge
of suffocation, giving its parents much alarm. The infant was taken in the
arms of the lady, in thirty minutes was completely relieved, went to
sleep, and awoke in good health the next morning.
No. 3. The mother of this child was subsequently attacked with a
scrofulous swelling on the neck, just under the ear, which was very
painful and disfiguring; the side of the face, also, being badly swollen.
It was feared that this would develop into and undergo the usual
phenomenon of abscess, as other similar swellings had done previously. She
had great faith in the metaphysical treatment, because of the experience
which she had had with her baby, and wrote a letter describing her case.
This was immediately answered, and absent treatment was begun. In
twenty-four hours after receipt of the letter, to the astonishment of
herself and family, the tumor had entirely disappeared: there was not a
trace of it left; although the day before it was fully as large as a hen’s
egg; red, and tender to the touch.
These instances are only a few of the many cures which have been performed
in this way, and they are mentioned simply to show what good work may be
done by any earnest, conscientious person who has gained by reading my
works the proper understanding of the Principle of Christian Science.
What a wonderful field for enlightenment and profit lies open to those who
seek after Truth. Alas, that the feet of so few enter it!
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_Rev. M. B. G. Eddy_:—Will you kindly spare me a few moments for the
perusal of these lines from a stranger,— one who feels under a debt of
gratitude to you,—for, through the divine Science brought to light by you,
I have been “made whole.” I have been cured of a malignant cancer since I
began to study Christian Science, and have _demonstrated the truth_ of it
in a number of cases. I have only studied your good books, having been
_unable_ to take the lectures for want of means. I dare not think of
these, for there is no prospect that I shall be in a position to take the
course at all. I do not allow myself to complain, but cheerfully take up
my books and study, and feel thankful for this light.
M. E. W., Cañon City, Col.
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_Dear Madam_:—May I thank you for your book, “Science and Health with Key
to the Scriptures,” and say how much I owe to it—almost my very life—at a
most critical time....
If it were not for the heat of your American summers (I had nine attacks
of dysentery in the last one), and the expense, I should dearly like to
learn from you personally; but I must forego this,—at any rate, for the
present. If you would write me what the cost would be for a course on
divine metaphysics, I would try to manage it later on.
Meanwhile, I should be grateful if you would refer me to any one in this
country who is interested similarly, for I get more kicks than halfpence
in discussing it.
Your obliged friend,
(REV.) I. G. W. BISHOP,
Bovington Vicarage, Hemel Hempstead,
Herts, England
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Extract from a letter to Rev. M. B. G. Eddy
A gentleman here had hired all the most skilled doctors in the United
States—nothing helped him. He was a ghost to look upon. I told him just to
read my copies of your books. I talked to him, told him what he could do
for himself if he but tried. He laughed at me. I was willing he should
laugh, for it was very unusual for him to do this. He had your books two
months, and last Sunday he returned them. I wish you could see him: _he is
well_. He is happy, and told me he was going to write to you for the books
for himself this week.—E. E. B.
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_Dear Madam_:—I have been a sickly person all my life, until a few months
ago, and was confined to my bed every little while. It was during one of
many attacks that your book, “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” was handed me. I read it only a very short time, when I
arose, well, went out into the kitchen, prepared a large dinner, and ate
heartily of it.
I have been up and well ever since,—a marvel to my friends and family, and
sometimes they can hardly believe it is I; and feeling so grateful, I must
tell you of it. I wish everybody in the world would read your book, for
all would be benefited by it.
Gratefully yours, ANNA M. SMITH
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_Dear Madam_:—About seven years ago I was compelled to go to an oculist
and have an operation performed upon my eyes. He fitted me with glasses,
which I wore for a considerable time, and then removed; but the pain and
difficulty returned, and I was obliged to go again to the oculist, who
advised me never to take my glasses off again.
I continued wearing them for fully five years longer, until some time in
last January, when, upon reading your book, “Science and Health with Key
to the Scriptures,” I again took them off. Since that time, though I have
been in the courts reporting, and reading fine notes frequently, I have
experienced no difficulty with my eyes.
Very respectfully,
William A. Smith, Wilmington, Del.
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_Dear Mrs. Eddy_:—We have been studying “Science and Health with Key to
the Scriptures” for a year, and I cannot tell you how much it has done for
us; giving us health instead of sickness, and giving us such an
understanding of God as we never had before. Christian Science was our
only help two weeks ago, when our baby was born. My husband and myself
were alone. I dressed myself the next day; commenced doing my work the
third day, and am well and strong. It must be pleasing to you to know how
much good your work is doing.
KITTIE BECK, Elmwood, Cass Co., Neb.
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I was a helpless sufferer in August, 1883, and had been so for many years.
The physicians said I had cancer of the uterus. I heard of your book,
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” bought a copy, began
reading it, and a great light seemed to break through the darkness. I
cried aloud in joy, “This is what I have been hungering for, these many
years!” I studied it closely, and healed myself and several of my friends
before I had taken instruction of any teacher.
MRS. S. A. MCMAHON, Wyandotte, Kans.
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I was healed thoroughly of the belief of chronic hepatitis and kidney
disease, by reading “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” I
have never, to this day, had the slightest return of it.
J. P. FILBERT, Council Bluffs, Iowa
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You, dear Mrs. Eddy, have saved my life, through Science and Health; and I
feel that the patients healed through me should give the first thanks to
God and to you.—MRS. D. S. HARRIMAN, Kansas City, Mo.
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How grand your book, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” is!
It is a translation of Truth. No amount of money could buy the book of me,
if I could not get another. No matter what suffering comes, physical or
mental, I have only to take Science and Health, and almost invariably the
first sentence brings relief. It seems to steady the thought. I do not
think any student old enough to neglect reading it. When we think we are
advanced far enough to let that book alone, then are we in danger.
MRS. ELLEN P. CLARK, Dorchester, Mass.
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Many thanks for the good received from your books. When I commenced
reading them, I was carrying about a very sick body. Your books have
healed me. I am now in perfect health. People look at me with surprise,
and say they do not understand it; but when they see the sick ones made
well, they are not always willing to believe it.
MRS. JOSEPH TILLSON, South Hanson, Mass.
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_Rev. M. B. G. Eddy:_—I add one more testimony of a cure from reading your
book, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” Five years ago I
lay prostrate with piles and inflammation of the bowels. All the coating
came off, apparently. A stricture was formed, beyond medical reach. I then
lived in Chicago; one of the best physicians, who made a specialty of
treating piles, attended me. The pain was relieved, but my bowels were
inactive, and remained so until New Year’s eve.
I determined to trust all to God, or die before I would take any more
medicine, as I never had an action unless I took a free dose of some
laxative. If I forgot to take the medicine one night, or allowed myself to
be without it, I had a terrible sick headache for two or three days, and
terrible backache. I never had backache at any other time, and the piles
would be so much inflamed, in two days’ time, that I could hardly tell
where I suffered the worst.
Since I have learned to trust all to God, I have not had the least trouble
with the piles, nor one twinge of the backache. I have an easy action of
the bowels each morning. It was five days after I resolved to leave
medicine alone, before a natural movement took place; and ever since I
have been perfectly regular. It was a great effort for me to take that
step, for I knew I was running the risk of throwing myself back into all
misery, and perhaps into a worse state than before. By reading Science and
Health, I learned that God was able to save the body as well as the soul,
and I believed His promises were for me.
MATTIE E. MAYFIELD, Des Moines, Iowa
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For the Cause of Truth, I submit the following testimonial for
publication; may it bring _one_ more, at least, into the fold of divine
Science! The truth, as it is stated in “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” has done much towards making our home the abiding-place of
peace and harmony. I now write of the wonderful demonstration of Truth
over the birth of my baby boy, two weeks ago. Sunday, September 23, we
went for a long drive of three hours; at night I retired at the usual
hour; toward morning I was given a little warning; when I awoke at seven
o’clock, the birth took place. Not more than ten minutes after, I ate a
hearty breakfast, and then had a refreshing sleep; at ten o’clock walked
across the room while my bed was dressed; at twelve took a substantial
dinner; most of the afternoon sat up in bed, without any support but
Truth; at six in the evening dressed myself and walked to the dining-room,
and remained up for two hours. Next morning I arose at the usual hour, and
have kept it up ever since,—was not confined to my bed one whole day. The
second day was out walking in the yard, and the third day went for a drive
in the morning and received callers in the afternoon. If it had not been
for the presence of my young hopeful, it would have been hard to believe
that there had so recently been a belief of a birth in the house; but
then, I was sustained by Love, and had no belief of suffering to take my
strength away. Before baby was two weeks old, I cooked, swept, ran the
sewing machine, etc., assisting with the housework generally. How grateful
I am for the obstetrics of this grand Science! Mothers need no longer
listen to the whispering lies of the old serpent, for the law of mortal
mind is broken by Truth.
MRS. DORA HOSSICK, Carrolton, Mo.
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My wife and I have been healed by reading your book, “Science and Health
with Key to the Scriptures.” We both feel very grateful to you.
Five months ago my wife gave birth to a child, without pain or
inconvenience, has done all the housework since, and has been every minute
perfectly well. Neither she nor the child have been ill,—as was constantly
the case with former children,—so we have thought it right to name the
child Glover Eddy.
We have been reading Science and Health nearly two years, and have sold
several copies to others. We are reading the _Journal_ also this year.
Yours respectfully, JOHN B. HOUSEL, Lincoln, Neb.
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_Dear Mother:_—The most blessed of women! Oh, how I long to sit within
range of your voice and hear the truth that comes to you from on high! for
none could speak such wondrous thoughts as have come from your pen, except
it be the Spirit that speaketh in you.
Two years ago last October, while laboring under a great strain of care
and anxiety in regard to financial affairs, I heard of Christian Science.
I borrowed “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and began to
read. I bless God that I was driven to it by such an extremity. After
reading some one hundred and fifty pages, I was convinced that it was the
truth for which I had searched during twenty years. While I was reading
the chapter on Imposition and Demonstration,(9) I was healed of
endometritis and prolapsus uteri of over twenty years’ standing,
pronounced incurable by eminent physicians. Professor Ludlam, the dean of
Hahnemann Medical College, of Chicago, Ill., was one of my doctors.
Before I was healed, to walk seven or eight blocks would so fatigue me
that it would take me a week to recover. I now started out and walked, and
was on my feet all day and for several succeeding days, but felt no
weariness from my labors.
I felt, after being healed, I must have a Science and Health of my own. I
had no money to buy it, so earned it by getting subscribers for the
_Journal_. It has gone with me everywhere I have been. I have been well
ever since.
I had suffered from bodily ailments, but they were nothing compared to my
mental trials. Grief, hatred, jealousy, and revenge had well-nigh bereft
me of reason. I had lost a home of plenty, been reduced to almost abject
poverty, and had become a cheerless woman,—could not smile without feeling
I had sinned.
All my griefs and sorrows are now turned to joy, and my hatred is changed
to love. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will
toward men.” I read Science and Health, and all your other books, together
with the New Testament, every minute I can get.—E. B. C., Omaha, Neb.
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I must add one more to your great pile of letters, to tell you what your
book, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” has done for me and
my family. More than a year ago, my husband was suffering from an injury
received about a year previous, and he went to Mrs. B. for treatment. His
shoulder had been fractured, his collarbone broken, and he had sustained
internal injuries. Several M. D.’s had attended him, but had given him
very little relief. Mrs. B. treated him a short time, and he received much
benefit. He bought Science and Health. From reading it, I was cured of a
belief of chronic liver complaint. I suffered so much from headaches and
constipation, and other beliefs, that I seldom ever saw a well day; but,
thanks to you and divine Principle, I now seldom ever have a belief of
feeling badly.
November 4th, last, I was confined. I was alone, because I knew no one
whose thought was in harmony with Science. I thought I could get along
without help, and I did. My little girl was sleeping in the same room with
me, and after the birth she called a woman who was asleep upstairs, to
take care of the baby. This woman was much frightened; but, on seeing how
composed I was, she got over her fright. I was sitting up in bed, holding
the child, and feeling as well as I ever did in my life. I never had seen
a Scientist nor been treated, but got all my ideas from Science and
Health. My baby was born on Sunday morning, and I got up Monday at noon,
and stayed up. I never got along so well with a baby as I did with this
one.
I am very thankful for the knowledge of Science I have gained through your
book. I want so much to be a Scientist; but we are very poor. My husband
is a brakeman on the railroad; and I have very little education. There is
comfort in the thought that, if I can’t be a Scientist, my children may
be.
Yours with much love, C. A. W., Lexington, Mo.
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In the February _Journal_ it appears there is some one who says that
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is hard to understand, and
who thinks she can explain it. Perhaps my experience with Science and
Health may help some one who might otherwise take up this thought, and so
be led away from the truth. After reading and studying it for some time,
and talking to the Scientists I met in my travels, the thought came to me,
“Why not try these truths on yourself?” I did so, and to my surprise and
great joy I found immediate relief. Dyspepsia (the trouble of most
commercial travellers), catarrh, and many lesser beliefs, left me, so that
in a short time I was a _well man_, and by no other means than trusting to
the Saviour’s promises as explained in Science and Health. This took place
while I was travelling about the country.
On my return home, I gave my wife treatments. In many instances the
blessing came before the treatment was finished, and often we proved that
only a thought of the power of Truth was sufficient to give relief.
One Sunday morning, soon after my return, a friend called and asked if I
could give him anything to relieve his wife, who, he said, had been
suffering for some days with rheumatism in her shoulder, so severely that
she could neither dress alone nor comb her hair. I told him that the only
medicine we had in the house was Christian Science. He laughed at the
idea; but before he left, he asked if I would give his wife a treatment. I
told him I was very young in Science, but if she wished it, I would. He
went home, but returned immediately, saying she wished me to come. Then I
asked help from the fountain of Truth, and started for my first treatment
to be given away from home. When I left their room fifteen minutes later,
she was shaking her hand high above her head, and exclaiming, “I am all
right; I am well!” That was in November, 1887, and she has had no return
of the belief since.
A friend told me that his son, twelve years old, had catarrh so badly that
his breath was very offensive, his throat troubled him all the time, and
that he had been deaf since he had the measles. In less than three weeks
both beliefs vanished. This was a case of absent treatment. I could give
you other cases, but I think I have said enough to prove that Science and
Health _is not hard to understand_, for my work has all been done without
my ever attending class.
H. H. B., New York City
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A lady, with no other instructor than “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” has demonstrated beyond many who have taken numerous lessons.
Persuaded, through her reading, of the allness of God,—and the perfectness
of idea,—she would know nothing else. A daughter, so badly affected by
poison oak (ivy) that for weeks death was feared from blood-poisoning, had
recovered with a terrible dread of that plant. As the next season’s picnic
time drew near, she was regretting that she dared not go again. The
mother, with her new-born faith in the Science of being, said, “Certainly
you can go, for nothing can harm you.” Assured by these words, the
daughter went, and in her rambles fell into a mass of the dreaded plant;
but trusting to the word of Truth, she thought nothing of it till one who
knew of her previous trouble said, in her mother’s presence, “See, her
face is showing red already.” But the mother was prompt in denial and
assurance. Next morning, old symptoms were out in force, but they yielded
at once and finally to the positive and uncompromising hold on Truth.
Another daughter, that was thought too delicate to raise, from bronchial
and nervous troubles, always dosed with medicine and wrapped in flannels,
now runs free and well without either of these, winter and summer. The
mother was recently attacked by mesmerism from the church that believed
she was influencing her daughter to leave. She overcame by the same
unwavering trust in God, seeing Truth clearer than ever before. Her
demonstrations come through no form of treatment, but by letting the
Spirit bear witness,—by the positive recognition and realization of no
reality but ever-present good.
The other night her husband was attacked with an old belief, similar to
one that some time before had ended in a congestive chill which the doctor
thought very serious, and from which he had been a long time in
recovering. The wife simply recognized no reality in the belief, and,
seeing only perfect being, felt no fear. She did nothing,—no “treating” in
the usual sense. There is nothing to do but to understand that all is
harmony, always. He felt the presence that destroys the sense of evil, and
next morning—there was nothing left to recover from.
A lady, while doing some starching, thoughtlessly put her hand into the
scalding starch to wring out a collar. Recalled to mortal sense by the
stinging pain, she immediately realized the all-power of God. At once the
pain began to subside; and as she brushed off the scalding starch, she
could see the blister-swelling go down till there was but a little redness
to show for the accident; absorbed in her thankfulness, she mechanically
wrung out the collar with the same hand, and with no sense of pain, thus
verifying the demonstration. This woman (not reading English) only knows
Science as she has received it from her practitioner during the treatments
received within the last month. So much has come to her from Spirit
through her loyalty to Christ, in so far as she could understand.
A case of ulcerated tooth and neuralgic belief would only partially yield
after repeated treatments, till it was discovered that the patient was
antagonizing Truth by holding the thought that her old remedy, laudanum,
would give relief; treated from this standpoint, relief was immediate and
final.
One morning after Rev. —— had been preaching to thousands for several
days, he told them that he had never felt such a sense of depression nor
had so little showing of results. Some Scientists hearing this, at once
saw his trouble. He had been fearlessly exposing and denouncing evil; and
it had turned on him, till the mesmerism was likely to overcome him
entirely, for he did not understand the seeming power. The effect of the
silent word to uplift and sustain, was very manifest that evening in his
preaching, and was a beautiful demonstration of Science. He probably only
felt Spirit-inspiration as he had not before, without a thought as to what
had broken the evil spell; but we never know the what, or when, or where,
of the harvest we can sow—“God giveth the increase.”—E. H. B., Sacramento
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I had two German patients who were anxious to have you publish “Science
and Health with Key to the Scriptures” in their language. I advised them
to buy it and try to read it. They commenced reading, and now can read all
of Science and Health, but do not read well any other book or paper, and
they do not need to. With great love.—M. H. P.
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I sold three copies of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” to
friends, not long ago. One of them, fifty years of age, said to me, “I
never had one day’s sickness in my life; but after reading Science and
Health I found that I was bruised and mangled, from the crown of my head
to the soles of my feet. I have been reaching after something that, before
reading Science and Health, seemed to me unattainable;” and with tears in
her eyes, she rejoiced in the God of her salvation. Did not Jesus say, “If
these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out”?
P. L., Lexington, Ky.
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For eight years I suffered terribly with my eyes; I could not read fifteen
minutes without the most agonizing sick headache. Oculists called it a
case of double vision, and said that the only chance for a cure lay in
cutting the muscles of the eyes. This was done, but the pain was worse
than before. One of the most famous oculists of New York said I would
simply have to endure it for life, as it was a case of severe astigmatism.
I suffered so that my health gave way. A friend spoke to me of Christian
Science, but I scoffed at the idea. Later on, in desperation, I asked her
to lend me “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” thinking I
might be able to read five minutes a day in it. I opened the book at the
chapter on Physiology, and began. Time passed unnoticed: every page seemed
illuminated. I said, “This is everything or nothing; if everything, then
you need no glasses.” I took off the heavy ground glasses, and went on.
What a terrible headache I had the next morning! but I fought it with the
truth laid down in the book. I said again, “This is everything or
nothing,” and the truth triumphed. The headache ceased, but I felt
miserably. I recalled what was said about chemicalization, and persevered.
In four days my eyes were well; I read as many hours a day as I pleased;
my strength returned. I conquered one belief after another, until now,
strong and well, I meet every belief with confidence. “I will fear _no_
evil: for _Thou_ art with me.” For two years I have realized the peace and
confidence which the knowledge that God is all-powerful and always present
alone can give. Feeling a great desire to spread Christian Science, that
it may do the good to others that it has to me, not only physically but
spiritually, I ask if you have any missionaries in the work. Being a
member of the Episcopal Church, I have always sent what I could to help
foreign missions through that church. Will it do the most good to continue
so doing, as our foreign missionaries are devoted men, or have you
Christian Science missionaries who devote their lives to the work?
An answer addressed to me, or published in the _Journal_, would help one
who is seeking to do right.
Yours sincerely, K. L. T.
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I do wish to add my testimony of being healed by reading “Science and
Health with Key to the Scriptures.” I had been an invalid for over twenty
years, and had given up all hope of ever being well again. I had read the
book about six weeks, when it seemed I was made all over new, and I could
“run, and not be weary; and ... walk, and not faint.” I did not understand
it, but it was the savior from death unto life with me; I have remained
well ever since I was healed,—more than five years ago. I commenced to
treat others as soon as I was born anew into the kingdom of Truth. My
patients were healed right along, before I had taken lessons in a class,
and they have remained well to this day.
Christian Science has made me as young as a girl of sixteen. If this
should meet the eye of any sufferers who may be led to go and do as I did,
they will be healed.—N. A. E.
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Language is inadequate when bearing grateful testimony to the book
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” By its simple reading, I
was healed of ills which baffled the skill of specialists and all
curatives that love and money could command. After eighteen years of
invalidism, and eight years of scepticism, without hope, with no
God,—except a First Cause,—I was given up to die.
A loving friend told me of this book, which was soon brought; and
thirty-five pages of the first chapter were read to me that evening. The
next morning I got up, walked, and read the book for myself.
I mention the chapter, for the reason that nearly two years have passed
since those wonderful words of Life were first read to me, and _still_
their sacred sweetness is ever the same. Now I exclaim, _God is_ All!
MRS. MARY A. R.
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It is impossible for me to keep still any longer. In 1885, when I had not
known a well day in five years, “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures” was placed in my hands by a dear lady who insisted upon my
reading it, saying she believed it would heal me. Like many, I was afraid
of it,—until I learned what it really was. The friend’s words were
verified. I _was_ healed by the reading of the book, and for one year
continued to read nothing whatever but the Bible and Science and Health.
They were my constant study. Through the understanding gained, that _God_
is _All_, I came to demonstrate with great success, and with but one
thought,—for I knew nothing about giving a “treatment;” I wish I knew as
little now, for I believe that healing in Christian Science is to be done
in a moment. I became anxious to learn more, to study with the teacher,
but funds would not allow,—and I thought to substitute a course in
Chicago, perhaps. Every time I would speak of it, however, my dear mother
would say, “You have Science and Health and the Bible, and God for your
teacher—what more do you need? If I could not go to the teacher, I would
not go to any one.”
If I had only heeded the blessed counsel of Truth!
I went to Chicago, however, so full of confidence in Christian Science
that I supposed every one who had studied with Mrs. Eddy must be right.
Unfortunately, I took my course with a spiritualist who had been through
two of her classes; discovered my mistake, and went to a mind-cure,—only
to find the mistake repeated. Being an earnest seeker for Truth, I tried
again to go to the Massachusetts Metaphysical College; but it was
uncertain when there would be a class, so I took a course with one of Mrs.
Eddy’s students in Boston. The darkness now rolled away. Science and
Health once more revealed the light to me as of old.
All this time, the mind-curers had me in view, and were sending me
reading-matter; but, _praise the Lord!_ Truth is victorious.
My dear brothers and sisters, let us be safely guided by the counsels of
our Mother, in Science and Health! I, for one, am astounded that I was so
led astray; but I did it all through ignorance,—and the _sincere_ desire
to know the truth and to _do_ it, saved me.
Your sister in truth, R. D.
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I have been reading Science and Health for one year and a half, and have
had some wonderful demonstrations. People here are antagonistic to the
Science, and tell me that I am a “fit subject for the asylum.” Physicians
threaten me with arrest, also, but I walk straight on, knowing _well in
whom I trust_.
E. I. R., Wauseon, Ohio
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A little over two years ago, while living in Pittsburgh, my wife and I had
Christian Science brought to our attention. We were at once interested,
and bought a copy of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.”
At the time, Mrs. A—— was suffering with severe belief of astigmatism of
the eyes. She had been treated by a number of specialists, during seven
years, the last being the late Dr. Agnew of New York, who prescribed two
sets of glasses. He said that he could do nothing more for her, as the
trouble was organic; that she must wear glasses constantly; that if she
attempted to go without, she would become either blind or insane. The
glasses were in operation, and still life had become a burden from
constant pain, when Christian Science came to our relief. Mrs. A—— had not
in years read for two consecutive minutes, and could not use her eyes in
sewing at all. The lady that told us of the Science, insisted that she
_could_ read Science and Health, which she actually did,—reading it
through twice, and studying it carefully each time. After the second
reading, there came the thought that she did not need the glasses, and she
at once abandoned them, and went about her usual duties. In about two
weeks from that day the eyes were perfectly healed, and are well and
strong to-day.
E. G. A., New York City
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_My Dear Teacher:_—Yours without date is at hand. Could you know out of
what depths of material _débris_ the first reading of the first volume of
Science and Health, six years ago last December, lifted me, you would
believe it had always been “all I could ask.” It was _only_ words from the
pen of _uninspired_ writers that gave me pain. As the revelation of the
All-good appeared to me, all other books, all forms of religion, all
methods of healing, to my sense became void. Chronic beliefs of disease of
twenty years’ standing, dimness of sight from the belief of age, all
disappeared _instantly_; indeed, material life seemed a blank. The _why?_
I could not explain, but this I did know, in this realm of the real I
found joy, peace, rest, love to all, unbounded, unspeakable. Human
language had lost its power of expression, for no words came to me; and in
all this six years of bliss I still have found no words to tell my
new-found life in God. The most chronic forms of disease have sometimes
been healed instantly and without argument. With great love and
gratitude.—M. H. P.
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I take great comfort in reading “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” and will cling firmly to the light I have, knowing that more
will be given me. While in Salt Lake City, I met at the hotel a lady who
had been an invalid all her life. I talked with her about Christian
Science, and loaned her Science and Health, together with the _Journals_ I
had with me. She had become very much discouraged, having lost all faith
in doctors and medicine, and did not know where to turn next. She became
very much absorbed in the book, feeling she had found salvation. She at
once laid aside the glasses she was wearing, and now reads readily without
them. She and her husband have accepted this truth beautifully.—Mrs. G. A.
G., Ogden, Utah
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On a trip through Mexico I met a woman who told me that, although she did
not believe in Christian Science, on her way from Wisconsin, her home, she
had bought a copy of Science and Health. When she reached M——, she met a
minister from the North, whom the M. D.’s had sent there because of
consumption,—they had given him two months to live. She gave him Science
and Health, and while doing so, felt it was all absurd. The minister read
it, and was healed _immediately_. Was not this a beautiful demonstration
of the power of Truth, and good evidence that Science and Health is the
word of God?
I had while in Mexico a glorious conquest over the fear of smallpox. There
were hundreds of cases in some small towns where we were. After the fear
was cast out, never a thought of it as real came to me or my husband, or
troubled us in any way. On the street I met three men who were being taken
to the pest-house with that loathsome disease.—F. W. C.
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A lady to whom I sold “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,”
writes me: “My longing to know God has been answered in this book; and
with the answer has come the healing.” She is an intimate friend of Will
Carleton, the poet. This is doing much good in the social circles. He has
for a long time been interested, but his wife has declared it could not
heal, and was not Christian. She will now be obliged to acknowledge this
healing, for the lady above referred to has been, to sense, a great
sufferer.—P. J. L.
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Some of the experiences given in the _Journal_ have been so helpful to me,
I have been moved to give to its readers a little experience of my own,
which occurred when I first began the study of “Science and Health with
Key to the Scriptures.”
I had already been healed of sick headache, almost instantly, by declaring
that I was God’s child, and, as God is perfect, His child must be perfect
also. This had given me great happiness, and a quiet, peaceful state of
mind I never had known before. My family did not seem to see anything good
in Christian Science, but to me it was sacred.
One Monday morning, I awoke feeling very ill indeed. The morning was warm
and sultry. I thought I certainly could not wash that day; but when I went
downstairs, I found my daughter had made preparations for such work. I
thought, “Well, if she feels like washing, I will not say anything;
perhaps I shall get over this.” After breakfast I went about my work,
thinking I could lean against the tub and wash with more ease than I could
do up the morning work. I tried to treat myself as I had done
before,—tried to realize that “all is Mind, there is no matter;” that “God
is All, there is nothing beside Him,” but all to no purpose. I seemed to
grow worse all the time. I did not want my family to know how badly I was
feeling, and it was very humiliating to think that I must give up and go
to bed.
All at once these questions came to me, as though spoken by some one,
taking me away from my line of thought entirely: How is God an
ever-present help? How does He know our earnest desires? Then, without
waiting for me to think how, the answer came in the same way, God is
conscious Mind. Instantly the thoughts came: Is God conscious of me? Can I
be conscious of Him? I was healed instantly: every bad feeling was
destroyed. I could see that the morning had not changed a particle, but I
was oblivious of the weather. It did not seem that I had anything more to
do with that washing. It was finished in good season, while I was “absent
from the body, and present with the Lord.”
That was the beginning of the battle with sin and self, but at the same
time it was the dawning of the resurrection. Since then (over four years)
I have had many experiences, some of which seem too sacred to give to the
world. False literature has caused me much suffering; sorrow has visited
my home; but, through all this, the light that came to me on that Monday
morning—that new and precious sense of omnipresent Life, Truth, and
Love—has never left me one moment. It was the light that cannot be hid.
MRS. H. B. J., Cambridge, Ill.
Healing
Four years ago I learned for the first time that there was a way to be
healed through Christ. I had always been sick, but found no relief in
drugs; still, I thought that if the Bible was true, God could heal me. So,
when my attention was called to Christian Science, I at once bought
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” studied it, and began to
improve in health. I seemed to see God so near and so dear,—so different
from the God I had been taught to fear. I studied alone night and day,
until I found I was healed, both physically and mentally.
Then came a desire to tell every one of this wonderful truth. I expected
all to feel just as pleased as I did; but to my sorrow none would believe.
Some, it is true, took treatment and were helped, but went on in the old
way, without a word of thanks. But still I could not give up. I seemed to
know that this was the way, and I had rather live it alone than to follow
the crowd the other way. But as time passed, I had some good
demonstrations of this Love that is our Life.
I am the only Scientist in Le Roy, as yet, but the good seed has been
sown, and where the people once scoffed at this “silly new idea,” they are
becoming interested, and many have been healed, and some are asking about
it. One dear old lady and I study the Bible Lessons every Tuesday
afternoon. She came to call, and as we talked, she told me of her sickness
of years’ standing; and was healed during our talk, so that she has never
felt a touch of the old trouble since.
One lady, whom I had never seen, was healed of consumption in six weeks’
treatment. She had not left her bed in four months, and had been given up
by many physicians.
MRS. FLORENCE WILLIAMS, Le Roy, Mich.
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I like the _Journal_ and _Quarterly_, and have many of Rev. Mary B. G.
Eddy’s works, which make my little world. I have a great desire to learn
more of this Love that casts out all fear, and to work in this Science. It
is the greatest pleasure I have, to talk this truth, as far as I
understand it, to any who will listen; and am waiting for others to learn
of this blessed Science.
I give my experience in reading “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures” aloud to a little child. A letter published in the _Journal_,
written by a lady who had relieved a two-year-old child by reading to her,
first suggested this course to me. At the time, my little one was a trifle
over a year old. I was trying to overcome for him a claim which, though
not one of serious illness, was no small trial to me, because of its
frequent occurrence and its seeming ability to baffle my efforts. One day
as I sat near and treated him, it occurred to me to read aloud. I took up
one of the older editions of Science and Health lying near, began at the
words, “Brains can give no idea of God’s man,” and read on for two or
three paragraphs, endeavoring—as the writer suggested—to understand it
myself; yet thinking, perchance, the purer thought of the babe might grasp
the underlying meaning sooner than I. So it proved. Before the disturbance
felt by me had been calmed, the weary expression on the face of the child
was replaced by one of evident relief.
When putting him to sleep, I had often repeated the spiritual
interpretation of the Lord’s Prayer. One night he was very restless,
fretful, and cried a great deal, while I seemed unable to soothe him. At
last I perceived that he was asking for something, and it dawned upon me
that the Prayer might be his desire. I began repeating it aloud,
endeavoring to _mean_ it also. He turned over quietly, and in a few
minutes was sweetly sleeping.
The last time my attention was specially called to this subject, was about
a year after the first experience. Various hindrances had been allowed to
keep me from Science and Health all day; and it was toward evening when I
recognized that material sense had been given predominance, and must be
put down. I soon felt drawn to read the book. The little boy had seemed
restless and somewhat disturbed all day; but without thinking specially of
him, rather to assist in holding my own thought, I began to read aloud,
“Consciousness constructs a better body, when it has conquered our fear of
matter.” In a minute or two a little hand had touched mine, and I looked
down into a sweet face fairly radiant with smiles. I read it over. The
child was evidently delighted, and was restful and happy all the rest of
the day.—A. H. W., Deland, Florida
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A week ago a friend wrote to me on business, and in the letter stated that
his wife had been very ill for six weeks. At once the thought came, “Tell
her to read the chapter on Healing, in Science and Health.” In my answer
to his letter I obeyed the thought. A few days after, I had occasion to
call; found her much better, and _reading_ Science and Health. They had
done as directed, and had received the promise.—R., New York
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The first allusion to Christian Science reached me in an article I read on
that subject. Later, a friend came to visit me, bringing a copy of
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” For two weeks I read it
eagerly; then I sent for a copy for myself. When it came, I began to study
it. The Bible, of which I had had but a dim understanding, began to grow
clearer. The light grew brighter each day. Finally, I began to treat
myself against ills that had bound me for twenty-eight years. At the end
of six weeks I was _healed_, much to the amazement of all who knew me.
From that time, my desire was to help others out of their suffering, and
to talk this wonderful truth. After a while I took the class lectures, and
am doing what I can to spread this healing gospel.—A. M. G.
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Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy
_My Dear Leader:_—I will try to tell you how I was led to Christian
Science. Heretofore I have not tried to lead a Christian life, but have
always firmly believed that if one truly desired and needed help, he would
get it from God by asking for it. I suffered, as I think but very few
have, for fourteen years; yet I did not think it sufficient to warrant me
in asking God to help me, until I gave up all hope elsewhere,—and this
occurred in the spring of 1891. I then thought that the time had come to
commit myself to God. Being at home alone, after going to bed I prayed God
to deliver me from my torments, this sentence being the substance of my
prayer, “What shall I do to be saved?”
I repeated that sentence, I suppose, until I fell asleep. About twelve
o’clock at night, I saw a vision in the form of a man with wings, standing
at the foot of my bed,—wings partly spread,—one arm hanging loosely at his
side, and one extended above his head. At the same time there was a bright
light shining in my room, which made all objects shine like fire. I knew
where I was, and was not afraid. The vision (for such it was), after
looking directly at me for some time, spoke this one sentence, and then
disappeared: “Do right, and thou shalt be saved.”
I immediately tried to live according to that precept, and found relief in
proportion to my understanding. I soon after learned of Christian Science.
One of my brothers in Kansas, having been healed by it, persuaded me to
buy “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” wherein I learned
that the above precept was the key to Christian Science; that it is
Christian Science to do right, and that nothing short of right living has
any claim to the name.
I have been learning my way in Christian Science about one year, and have
been successful in healing. I have all of your books, and am a subscriber
for the _Journal_ and _Quarterly Bible Lessons_. Some of the cases I have
treated have yielded almost instantly. I am a stranger to you, but I have
told you the truth, just as it occurred. Yours in truth,
SAM SCHROYER, Oklahoma City, Okla.
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I desire to make known the great good I have received by reading the
blessed book “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” Four years
have now passed since I began to read it. It has been my only healer and
teacher, as I never have had an opportunity to go through a class; but I
find that the “Spirit of truth” will teach us all things if we will but
practise well what we know. After two years and a half of study, I
thought, as many beginners think, that I had travelled over the worst part
of this narrow path.
Soon after, it came about that I was separated from every one who had ever
heard of Christian Science; and, as I lived in the country, no one came to
visit me for about eight months. At first, I thought the Lord had wrought
a great evil. I had no one to talk to, but would take my Science and
Health every morning, before going about my work, and read; yet mortal
mind would say, “You can do no good, with no one to talk with.” At last,
one morning after listening to the serpent’s voice, I looked out at the
little wild flowers as they waved to and fro; they seemed to be a living
voice, and this is what they said: “On earth peace, good will toward men.”
There was also a mocking-bird that would sit on the house and sing. For
the first time, I realized that divine Love was the only friend I needed.
Soon after, I sent the _Journal_ to my nearest neighbor, by her little son
who came to play with my children. Afterward she told me that when she
began to read it she said to the family, “God has sent this book to me.”
Calling to see her one evening, I found her suffering from heart disease.
I began talking to her about Christian Science, and in less than an hour
she declared herself healed. She is to-day a happy woman. I would say to
all suffering ones, that if you will buy a copy of this wonderful book,
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” by the Rev. Mary Baker G.
Eddy, and study it, and practise its teachings, you will find it a pearl
of great price.
MRS. FANNIE MEEKS, Bells, Grayson Co., Texas
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On my arrival in New York, last July, my brother spoke to me of “Science
and Health with Key to the Scriptures;” and, coming in contact with a
number of Scientists, all wishing me to procure the book, I did so. I read
it through in the same manner in which I would read any other book, to
find out the contents.
Before I got to the end, having partly understood its meaning, I began to
demonstrate over old physical troubles, and they disappeared. A belt that
I had worn for over twelve years, I took off, and threw overboard (being a
seafaring man).
Up to that time I had been a constant smoker, and chewed tobacco; but I
gradually lost all pleasure in it, and now look upon it with disgust.
I was brought up in the Lutheran doctrine, and when a boy received a good
knowledge of Scripture; but I never understood it until explained to me in
Science and Health.
H. F. WITKOV,
27 Needham Road, Liverpool, England
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In a letter received a few days ago from one of my absent patients, there
was such a glorious testimonial for Science and Health that I feel as if I
ought to send it in for the pages of our _Journal_, trusting it may be the
means of helping many others to turn for help and comfort, in every
emergency, to this book.
In her letter, this lady says: “A few days since, I had quite a serious
claim attack me. I left my mending, took Science and Health and read all
the afternoon and evening; when all trace of the claim was gone, and I
have felt nothing of it since.”
When this dear woman applied to Truth, she was a great sufferer. Her
gratitude knows no bounds. Many chronic ailments, which have bound her
with heavy chains for many years, are being removed one by one. It is such
a sweet privilege to lead her out of this bondage of flesh, for she turns
with such childlike trust and obedience to the book, and looks to that for
aid in every trial and affliction. It is beautiful to see, and is a rebuke
to some of us older in the thought, who depend so much on personality.
She is far away, in a little country town where Science has hardly been
heard of; but she is so happy with her book that she has no desire for
other reading.
I have always tried to show her that God was with her there as well as
with us here; that in Him she possesses all; and that with her Bible and
Science and Health no harm can befall her, for the remedy for every ill
she has at hand.—MRS. C. H. S., Woburn, Mass.
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I have been an interested reader of the _Journal_ for some time, and
thought I would contribute my mite by giving one of my latest
demonstrations in Christian Science.
An accident occurred as follows: Officers, while hunting for a criminal in
thick underbrush, fired upon each other through mistake, and it was found
that one was shot six times; two of the bullets passing through the
abdomen, and one through the hips.
Two physicians who examined him had no hope. He asked me to help him. I
took the case. Relief came almost instantly. I treated him for eight days;
the fifth, I heard one of three physicians, who held a private
consultation over my patient, ask him this question:
“Mr. F——, have you not got one bit of pain?” I was rewarded by hearing him
answer, “No, sir; not the least bit.” No one else seemed to have any hope
for him; but I held firmly to the thought that God is an ever-present
help, never doubting, and Christian Science has again won a victory. Many
people call it a miracle, and it has set them to thinking.
The harvest is now ripe and ready for the reaper. I wish some good
Christian Science teacher would come and help us. I can help in my own
way, but am not advanced enough to lead and teach others. I have only
studied Science and Health a little over a year, and have not been through
a class yet.
S. G. SCHROYER, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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I became interested in Christian Science through being healed. I had no
faith in doctors, therefore would not consult any; but felt that something
must be done, or I would soon follow a brother and sister who had passed
on with the same claim. In my extremity I thought of the “great
Physician,” and took my case to Him, and realized that He alone could help
me.
A relative, finding I would not consult a doctor or take any drug, gave me
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” to read; saying that,
although a dear friend thought she was greatly helped by a Christian
Scientist, he himself had no faith in that kind of treatment, and had no
use for the book.
I had heard of the people called Christian Scientists, and of their
textbook, Science and Health, but knew nothing about either; yet I wanted
to know, and took the book gladly, and was soon deeply interested in it.
It was a revelation to me. Although I could only understand it in part, I
knew it was the truth, and the truth was making me free. I felt that I had
been bound and in prison; and that now, one after another, the bonds were
being broken, and I was lifted into the pure air and light of heaven. I
was healed before I had read half-way through the precious volume; for I
was obliged to read slowly, and some passages over and over again. When I
came to page 304, line 10 (47th edition), I then and there felt that I
must add my testimony, though already there were "heaps upon heaps;" but
since then, I have tried to put the thought of those dark days away from
me, and only refer to them now in the hope that some one who is bound may
be released and brought into the light of divine Love, which alone can
heal, and make us “every whit whole.”
L. M. C., Brooklyn, N.Y.
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I have been thinking for a long time that I would give my experience in
coming out of sickness into the knowledge of health by reading “Science
and Health with Key to the Scriptures.”
I was sixty years old (as we mortals count time) before I ever read one
word of Christian Science. On July 2, 1890, I met a Scientist who gave me
a pamphlet called “Christian Healing,” by the Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy. At
that time I was almost helpless. This lady advised me to buy Science and
Health. I did so, and tried to read it; but my hands were so lame I could
not hold it, and I let it fall to the floor so often that it became
unbound, and I laid it away and resumed my medicine.
The following May, the Scientist visited in this city again. She advised
me to burn all my medicines and to lean unreservedly on the promises of
God. I took her advice; had my book rebound in three volumes, so I could
hold it more easily, and now read it constantly, reading nothing else.
Sometimes I would suffer intensely, then I would get a little better; then
more suffering, and so on, until August, 1891, when all pain left me. I
have had no return of it, and no disagreeable sensations of any kind, and
am perfectly well in all respects.
Surely, if we will but trust our heavenly Father, He is sufficient for us.
I hope some one of, or near, my age, who is afflicted, may read this and
take courage; for I have _demonstrated_ the fact that, by reading Science
and Health, in connection with the Bible, and trying to follow the
teaching therein, one in the autumn of life may be made over new. I am so
thankful to God for my great recovery!
That remark of Sojourner Truth helps me to a better understanding of Life
in God: “God is the great house that holds all His children; we dwell in
Him as the fishes dwell in the seas.”—P. T. P.
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Until about one year ago, I had no thought of investigating Christian
Science. Previous to that time it had been presented to me in such a way
that I condemned it as unreasonable and absurd. At that time it was
presented to me in a more reasonable light. I determined to divest myself
of prejudice (as far as was possible) and investigate it, thinking that if
there was anything in it, it was for me as well as others; that I surely
needed it, and if I found no good in it, I could then with some show of
reason condemn it.
I had been reading Science and Health about two weeks, when one morning I
wanted my cane. It had been misplaced; and while looking for it the
thought came to me, If all is Mind, I need no cane. I went out without it,
have not used it at all since, and do not need it as a support; but for a
time I did miss it from my hand. I had used it for years as a support to a
very lame back.
I before went much stooped, because it pained me to straighten up; but
from the time I laid my cane aside I straightened up, free from pain.
Occasionally I have a slight pain in my back, but it is nothing to compare
with what it had been.
In a short time after laying my cane aside, my pipe and tobacco went out
into the street and have not returned. I had smoked for sixty-five years,
and chewed for fifty. I have no desire for either of them; in fact, the
smoke is offensive to me.
Many times before I had tried to quit, but the desire for it was so strong
that I would go back to it; and when I tried to “taper off,” I would make
the taper end the longest.
Many other physical claims have disappeared, and it is a common thing for
acquaintances to say when they meet me, “You look better than I have seen
you for years; what have you been doing?” My reply is, I not only look
better, but feel better, and am better; and Christian Science has done it.
With all this, I seem to have very little spiritual understanding of the
truth; am endeavoring to get more, but it seems slow. If there is a
shorter road to it than I have found, I should like to be directed to it.
J. S. M., Joplin, Mo.
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Four years ago I was healed by reading “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures.” The third day, one of my worst claims gave way. The book was
full of light, and disease vanished as naturally as darkness gives place
to light, although it was about six months before I was entirely healed.
Seeing this truth in its purity, showed me where to take my stand; and in
defending it I have the prince of this world to meet. Mortal mind has even
called me crazy; but what a blessing to know the nothingness of that mind,
and that divine Principle governs all its ideas, and will place each where
it belongs!
If our Master was persecuted, can his servants hope to escape? I know in
some degree what Paul meant when he said he rejoiced in tribulations, “for
when I am weak, then am I strong.”
Many claims that have baffled the skill of the physicians have disappeared
through my understanding of Truth. What a blessing that we can break the
bread of Life to others, and so add to our crown of rejoicing!
S. E. R., Kansas City, Mo.
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A dear little six-year old boy of my acquaintance was invited by his
teacher, with the rest of his class in kindergarten school, to attend a
picnic one afternoon. He did not feel that he wanted to go; seemed
dumpish, and according to mortal belief was not well; at noon, he said he
wanted to go to sleep.
His mother took him in her lap and began to read to him from “Science and
Health with Key to the Scriptures.” Very soon he expressed a wish to go to
the picnic, and did go. His father, happening to pass the place where the
little ones were spending the afternoon, and somewhat surprised to see him
playing, as happy and active as any there, called to him and asked, “How
long did you sleep?” The little fellow replied, “I did not sleep at all;
mamma read to me from Science and Health, and I was well in a minute.”—K.
L. H.
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One evening I was calling on a neighbor, and somehow the subject of
Christian Science came up. I asked her what it was, and what they
believed.
She then told me of a friend of hers who had become a Christian Scientist.
This friend had passed through great sorrow and disappointment; her health
had failed her, and her cheerful disposition had entirely changed; she
could talk of nothing but her troubles, and was a most unhappy woman. A
few years ago she visited my neighbor, who, greatly surprised at her
changed appearance,—for she was happy and well,—asked where her troubles
were. The reply was, “I have no troubles. I have found true happiness; for
I have become a Christian Scientist.”
I became deeply interested, and asked if the students in Clinton had
public meetings on Sundays. She replied that they had, and told me where
they were.
The next Sunday, I went. All was quiet when I entered, for they were
engaged in silent prayer. Soon they repeated the spiritual interpretation
of the Lord’s Prayer. I shall never forget the impression that made on me;
all the next week I heard the leader’s voice repeating the first sentence.
I was invited to come again, and did so. One of the ladies loaned me
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and offered to get me
one; which she did the next week. I have studied it in connection with the
Bible. I have greatly improved in health, having had only one attack of a
physical trouble which caused great suffering, since that time, and that
was a year ago.
At first, I did not think anything about being healed, or of my physical
infirmity. I only loved the sacred teaching. How true, that God’s word
does not return unto Him void! The words of truth that my neighbor’s
friend spoke to her, were what first awakened me. If the one who first
hears it does not receive it, it goes to some one who is ready, and it
takes root and bears fruit.
MRS. G. H. I., Clinton, N.Y.
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About three years ago I was near death’s door with various troubles; also,
was seventy years old. I had a desire to know something of Christian
Science.
I procured the textbook, and studied it with a desire to know the truth.
At first all was dark; but light began slowly to come, and at the end of
three months I found my physical claims all gone and my eyesight restored.
At the end of three months more, I had gained thirty-five pounds in
weight.
I had been an infidel, and the change from that came more slowly; but now
I know that my Redeemer lives, and I am able by divine grace to make very
convincing demonstrations.—J. S., Rudd, Iowa
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For a long time I have felt that I must in some way express my great debt
of gratitude for Christian Science. I know no better way to do so than to
give an account, through the _Journal_, of some of the many blessings I
have received as a result of our Leader’s untiring toil and
self-sacrificing love for suffering mortals, in giving to us the wonderful
book, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.”
When I first heard of Christian Science, about six years ago, I was
satisfied that it was the religion of Christ Jesus, because Jesus had so
plainly said, “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name
shall they cast out devils;... they shall lay hands on the sick, and they
shall recover.”
I had been a church-member since my girlhood, but was not satisfied that
my belief would take me to heaven, as I did not have these “signs
following”—and this had always troubled me; so, when I heard that an old
acquaintance living at a distance had not only been raised from a dying
condition to health, but her life had been changed and purified through
Christian Science, I could hardly wait to know more of this Christlike
religion which was casting out evils and healing the sick. I searched
every bookstore in the city for Science and Health, at last found a copy,
and was delighted to get hold of it, but little realized what a treasure
it was to be to me and my household.
At first it was like Greek to me, and I could not understand much of it,
but gleaned enough to keep on reading, and longed for some one to talk to
me of it.
After I had been reading it about a year’s time, I suddenly became almost
blind. I knew no Scientist to go to, so went to physicians; they told me
that my case was hopeless, that it was certain my sight never could be
restored, and the probabilities were that I would soon be totally blind.
I felt sure that Christian Science would help me if I could only fully
understand it; but there was no one from whom I could ask help, that I
knew of. I gave all the time that I could use my eyes to studying Science
and Health,—which at first was not more than five minutes two, and
sometimes three, times a day; gradually my sight returned, until it was
fully restored.
During this time God and the “little book” were my only help. My
understanding was very limited; but like the prodigal son, I had turned
away from the husks, towards my Father’s house, and while I “was yet a
great way off” my Father came to meet me. When this great cloud of
darkness was banished by the light of Truth, could I doubt that Christian
Science was indeed the “Comforter” that would lead us “into all truth”?
Again I lay at the point of death; but holding steadfastly to the truth,
knowing, from the teaching of this precious book, that God is Life and
there is no death, I was raised up to health,—restored to my husband and
little children, all of whom I am thankful to say are now with me in
Science.
I had no one to talk with on this subject, knew no one of whose
understanding I felt sure enough to ask for help; but I was careful from
the first not to read or inquire into anything except genuine Christian
Science, and how thankful I am for it! Since then, I have been through a
class.
I cannot express in words what Christian Science has done for my children,
or my gratitude that the light of Truth has come to them in their innocent
childhood,—healing all claims of sickness, and showing us how to overcome
the more stubborn claims of sin.—L. F. B.
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It is a little over one year since a very esteemed friend, of this city,
invited me to partake of the heavenly manna contained in the revelation of
“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” I had, up to that time,
been for fifteen years a victim of hip-joint disease; this eventually
confining me to my bed, where I had been ten months when the “book of
prophecy” was opened for me. I was not long in finding the light I
needed,—that gave “feet to the lame,” enabling me now to go, move, and
walk, where I will, without crutch or support of any description, save the
staff of divine Science.
In proportion as my thoughts are occupied with the work in Science, does
the peace and joy come inwardly that transforms the blight of error
externally.
T. G. K, Tacoma, Wash.
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I wish to acknowledge the blessings which Christian Science has brought to
me through reading “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” My
first demonstration was over the tobacco habit; I had smoked for at least
fifteen years: I have now no desire for tobacco.
I was then healed of two claims which had bound me for ten years. My
prayer is that I may be so filled with the truth that I can carry the
message to my brother man.
F. W. K, Angelica, N.Y.
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I take advantage of the great privilege granted us, to give my testimony
for Christian Science through the pages of our much loved _Journal_. The
blessing has been so bountiful that words can but poorly express my
gratitude.
A little over six years ago, a relative came from Denver, Colorado, to
visit us. She was a Christian Scientist, having herself been healed of a
severe claim that M. D.’s, drugs, and climate could not relieve; and her
husband having been in the drug business, she had had a chance to give
them a fair trial.
My sister-in-law did not talk much on the subject, as I remember; but what
was better, lived the truth before us as she realized it.
One day (a blessed day to me), I ventured to open Science and Health, and
read the first sentence in the Preface. I closed the book, wondering what
more it could contain, this seeming to cover the whole ground. When my
sister-in-law returned to the room, I asked her if I might read it. Her
reply was, “Yes; but begin at the first.”
That night, after all had retired, I began to read; within forty-eight
hours I destroyed all drugs, applications, etc., notwithstanding the fact
that my husband had just paid fifty dollars to a travelling specialist for
part of a treatment. With the drugs disappeared ailments of nine years’
standing, which M. D.’s had failed to relieve.
I now understand that my sudden healing was due to my turning completely
away from material methods; for I was convinced I should never use them
again. I realized that God was my health, my strength, my Life, therefore
All. As I read Science and Health, I wondered why others had not discerned
this truth,—physicians, ministers, and others who had devoted their lives
to benefit mankind. Yes! why? Because they had been seeking in the
opposite direction to Truth, namely, for cause and effect in matter, when
all cause and effect are mental.
I mention physicians and ministers, because one class claims to heal
disease, the other claims to heal sin; but Christian Science heals
physically and morally,—it contains all; “its leaves are for the healing
of the nations.”
L. B. A., Memphis, Tenn.
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I was for years a great sufferer. I called doctor after doctor, getting no
help. The last one, after treating me for one year, told me he would give
me one year more to live.
One evening a near neighbor came in and asked me to go home with her; and
as it was only a few steps, I did so.
She took up a new book, Science and Health, read me a few chapters, and
then gave me some Christian Science tracts, which I read, and one of them
I almost committed to memory.
I bought a copy of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and
studied it carefully. I am healed of all those claims which troubled me so
long. I was lifted out of darkness into light.
M. J. P., Burns, Oregon
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Chicago, March 19, 1894
_Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy, Boston, Mass.:_—I wish to thank you for the true
light that was revealed to me by reading your book, “Science and Health
with Key to the Scriptures,” and at once adopting its teaching. It was one
year ago to-day that I put on the armor, determined never to surrender to
the enemy; and you may know I have looked forward to this day with a great
deal of pleasure, to show my friends that the Lord is constantly with me
to help overcome all evil.
Some said, when I first started in this new path, “Wait until you get one
of your stomach attacks, and you will change your mind.” For months they
have waited, and are beginning to see the truth in my actions, that speak
for themselves, and show that all is _Mind_.
For nearly thirty years I had been a sufferer from throat and stomach
troubles; bronchitis, dyspepsia, gastralgia, and gastritis, etc., were the
terms applied by my physicians. About eighteen years of that time I was
engaged in the drug business, had constant opportunities for consulting
the best physicians, and took such medicine as I felt assured would cure
me; but only to be disappointed each time.
The last few years I had been living on oatmeal crackers and hot water;
suffering more or less all the time, and could not eat anything else
without suffering intense pain. I felt as though I could not live many
months more, and was getting ready to give up the fight when a dear friend
and neighbor, Mrs. Corning, left a copy of Science and Health at our home.
At first I did not care to read it; having been educated, for many years,
in the belief that medicine can cure all diseases, I could not conceive of
anything else to cure the sick.
One Sunday I had the curiosity to know something about this Christian
Science, and read Science and Health. The more I read, the more interested
I became, and finally said to myself, “I will try it.” I took a large
porous plaster and four thicknesses of flannel off my stomach, and threw
them in the corner, saying, “Now it shall be Mind over matter; no more
matter over Mind.” I filled a large basket full of bottles containing
medicine, and put it in the shed (where all medicine should be). From that
day I have eaten of everything on the table, and all I wished. Coffee was
my worst enemy, and I had not tasted it for years without suffering untold
agony. Several days passed before I cared to drink it; then, one morning,
I told my family I would commence to use it; I did, and have used it every
day since, and don’t know that I have a stomach, as it never has caused me
any trouble since that morning.
I am happy to say I have not used a drop of any kind of medicine,
internally or externally, from that day, and _I know that all is Mind_. I
read the Bible and Science and Health nearly every day, thanking the Lord
for the years of suffering which have led me to the truth as taught by our
Saviour; for I feel it was only through its victory over the suffering
that the truth could have been revealed in my case.
I have had some demonstrations to make over error, but each time it
becomes easier. God is ever present and ready to help me, and I trust in
Him; my faith is planted on a rock that is immovable.
Yours truly, FRANK S. EBERHART
P. S. If you think this letter, or any part of it, will help some one out
of darkness into the light of Truth, you are at liberty to have it
published.
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Having so many occupations and interruptions, I have not found time to
read “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” sufficiently, but
will not on that account delay thanking you for its excellence.
HENRY W. LONGFELLOW, Cambridge, Mass.
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I am an old-school practitioner; have served as surgeon in two European
wars; practised medicine for about ten years in New York city and
Brooklyn, until my health compelled me to relinquish my profession. I
became a victim of the morphia habit, taking daily thirty grains of that
drug. My physicians declared me consumptive, and abandoned all hopes of
recovery. Shortly after this I made the acquaintance of a student of the
author of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” who presented
me with her works; and as drugs did me no good, I stopped taking any
whatever, save morphia, without which I thought it impossible to get
along, and to my astonishment began to gain in flesh, and my ambition
returning in proportion. I finally felt that I would stop my loathsome
habit of morphia-eating, and did so in one week, without any discomfort
worth mentioning. For a test I administered one fourth of a grain of
morphia to the aforesaid Scientist, hypodermically, without the slightest
physiological effect, clearly proving the existence of metaphysical laws.
I have read Science and Health carefully, and consider my present improved
health solely due to mental influence.
OTTO ANDERSON, M.D., Cincinnati, Ohio
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The profound truths which you announce, sustained by facts of the immortal
life, give to your work the seal of inspiration—reaffirm in modern phrase
the Christian revelations. In times like these, so sunk in sensualism, I
hail with joy your voice, speaking an assured word for God and
immortality, and my joy is heightened that these words are of woman’s
divinings.
A. BRONSON ALCOTT, Concord, Mass.
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I was sick six years; tried many physicians and remedies, but received no
lasting benefit from any of them, and concluded I must remain sick the
rest of my life. In this condition, I purchased the book “Science and
Health with Key to the Scriptures,” read it, was deeply interested, and
noticed that my health began to improve; and the more I read the book, the
better I became in health. This I can say truly: it did more for my health
than all the physicians and remedies that I had ever tried.—DR. S. G.
TODD, 11 School St., Newburyport
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I had been a nervous sufferer for nine years; had a belief of incurable
disease of the heart, and was subject to severe nervous prostration if I
became the least weary. I was told that if I should read your books they
would cure me. I commenced reading them: in ten days I was surprised to
find myself overcoming my nervous spasms without the aid of medicine; and
ever since then I have been improving, and I now can walk twenty miles
without fatigue, and have been able to rise above all ailments.
MRS. JULIA A. B. DAVIS,
Central Village, Westport, Mass.
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I would inform my friends and the public, that after twelve years of
sickness I am restored to health; and, with renewed vigor and keen
enjoyment, take up the pleasures and duties of life once more; all labor
now seems less arduous, and all happiness more perfect. To Christian
Science, as taught in “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” I
am indebted for my restoration. I can cordially recommend this book to
all.
ROSE A. WIGGLESWORTH, Lowell, Mass.
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When I commenced reading “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,”
I could sit up but a very short time, and could not eat the most simple
food without great distress. In a few days there was a great change, and I
have been growing better ever since.
E. D. RICHARDSON, Merrimac, Mass.
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I have not been as well for years as I have been since reading “Science
and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” all of which I impute to its
teaching.
(MRS.) MARY A. WILLIAMS, Freeport, Ill.
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Had been in ill-health for several years; had been confined to my bed
three months, when I got your book and read it. At first I was unable to
read it myself, and others read it to me, and the truth revealed in your
book restored me to health.
(COL.) E. J. SMITH, Washington, D.C.
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I have been perusing with great interest your work on metaphysical
Science, for the last four months, and to great advantage; you make the
path to health so plain, that a wayfaring man, though a fool, cannot err
therein.
R. I. BARKER, Bethel, Me.
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“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” “is a lamp unto my feet,
and a light unto my path;” your missiles of Mind have battered down the
illusions of sense, allowing Life to appear an eternal monument, whose
spirited hieroglyphics, Truth and Love, unlike those cut in marble, shall
grow more luminous to consciousness as sickness, sin and death fade out of
belief.
ARTHUR T. BUSWELL,
_Office of Associated Charities_, Cincinnati, O.
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“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is beautiful in its form
of thought and expression. I have perused it with interest. Your book
tends to lead us to new thoughts and practices in the healing art, and for
many maladies I have no doubt the treatment your excellent work introduces
will be the only remedy.
(COL.) ROB’T B. CAVERLY, Centralville, Mass.
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Undoubtedly “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is the
greatest and grandest book ever published; and that by pulpit and press it
will be so acknowledged, is only a question of time. Yours has, indeed,
been a pioneer work, and will be; and I believe that you, of all the
millions, are selected and chosen because of your peculiar fitness for
this great work—this grand work of opening the gates and leading the way,
that fallen humanity may follow step by step; reach up to Christ, and be
made whole! That all this should be systematized and proven with
mathematical precision,—that there can be no guesswork or quackery,—is
simply astounding. Science and Health has given me a new impetus
heavenward.
M. A. HINKLEY, Williamsport, Pa.
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The book “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is the most
wonderful work that has been written in the past five thousand years. I
wish you could get ten dollars per copy. I am of the opinion that I can
heal the sick on its basis, from reading the work.
H. D. DEXTER, M. D., Dundee, N.Y.
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Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy’s book, “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” has been duly catalogued and placed on our shelves for use.
In behalf of the trustees, let me convey cordial thanks to the
earnest-minded author for this interesting contribution. My own idea is,
that the power of Mind or Spirit is supreme in character, and destined to
supremacy over all that is adverse to divine order.
WILLIAM H. KIMBALL,
_Librarian New Hampshire State Library_
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I am reading the work, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,”
for the third time; and I am convinced of the truth of the Science of
which it treats,—instructing us how to attain holiness of heart, purity of
life, and the sublime ascendency of soul over body.
C. CLEMENT, McMinnville, Warren Co., Tenn.
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I was sick for a number of years with what some of the most skilful
physicians pronounced an incurable disease. The more I tried to get help,
the worse I became, until a life of pain and helplessness seemed
unavoidable. Two years ago I heard of “Science and Health with Key to the
Scriptures,” began reading it and trying to live up to its teachings. At
first, my beliefs were so strong I made but little progress; but gradually
my disease gave way, and finally disappeared, and to-day I am a well
woman. I cannot express the gratitude I feel for what the light shining
through the teachings of that book did for me.
(MRS.) EMILY T. HOWE, Norway, Me.
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I have been reading “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and
feasting—like a starving, ship-wrecked mariner, on the food that was to
sustain him—on truths which ages to come will appreciate, understand, and
accept. Many of the theories which at first appear abstruse and obscure,
at length become clear and lucid. The candle of intellect requires
occasional snuffing to throw the clear light of penetration on the page.
(MRS.) S. A. ORNE, Malden, Mass.
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The mother of a little girl about eight years old told me her child was
having a severe attack of cold, and was delicate and easy to take cold. I
told her the little girl would be all right; not to give her any medicine,
but read Science and Health to her. When I next saw the mother, she told
me the little girl was entirely well; that the cold had all disappeared,
and with it a claim of night-sweats that the child had been under for more
than a year. The little girl had been out sliding down-hill in the snow a
number of times; had her feet very wet, but it did not affect her at all.
They were all pleased,—especially the child; her face was beaming with
happiness and smiles. This is just one little instance of the good that
comes from reading Science and Health.
T. W. H.
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Opinions Of The Press
This is, perhaps, the most remarkable book on health, in some respects,
which has appeared in this country. The author evidently discards
physiology, hygiene, mesmerism, magnetism, and every form of medication,
bathing, dieting, etc.,—all go by the board; no medicine, manipulation, or
external applications are permitted; everything is done through the mind.
Applied to certain conditions, this method has great value: even the
reading of the author’s book has cured hopeless cases. The author claims
that her methods are those used by Christ and his apostles, and she has
established a church and school to propagate them.—_Herald of Health_, N.
Y. (M. L. HOLBROOK, _Publisher_)
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The Christian Scientists claim that the power of healing is not lost, and
have supported that claim by inducing cures astonishingly like those
quoted from the New Testament. And even more good they hope to achieve, as
this power which they possess is better understood and the new light gains
strength in the world. Experience has taught us that the nearer we
approach to the source of a report of miraculous power, the smaller does
the wonder grow. In the instance of the Christian Scientists, the result
has been rather the reverse; if third parties have related a remarkable
circumstance, the person of whom the fact was alleged has been found to
make the assertion still stronger.—_Boston Sunday Globe_
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“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” by Mary Baker G. Eddy,
President of the Massachusetts Metaphysical College, is a remarkable
publication, claiming to elucidate the influence of mentality over matter.
Mrs. Eddy announces herself as the discoverer of this metaphysical
Science, and receives students, to whom she imparts so much of her
metaphysics as their minds are capable of receiving. The volumes are a
vigorous protest against the materialism of our modern scientists, Darwin,
Huxley, Tyndall, etc. Her Science of Mind was first self-applied: having
been ill and treated by doctors of the various schools without benefit,
she discovered the grand Principle of all healing to be God, or Mind.
Relying on this Principle alone, she regained her health, and for the last
sixteen years has taught this theory to others, and has healed the sick in
all cases where the patient’s mentality was sufficiently strong to
understand her teachings and act upon them.—_Brooklyn Eagle_
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The book “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is certainly
original, and contains much that will do good. The reader will find this
work not influenced by superstition or pride, but striking out
boldly,—full of self-sacrifice and love towards God and man.—_Christian
Advocate_, Buffalo, N. Y.
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The doctrines of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” are high
and pure, wholly free from those vile theories about love and marriage
which have been so prevalent among the spiritualists. This new sect
devotes itself to a study of the Bible, and a practice of curing disease
without mesmerism or spiritualism. It treats Darwin and materialists with
a lofty scorn.—_Springfield Republican_
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“Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” is indisputably a
wonderful work. It has no equal. No one can read the book and not be
benefited by it in mind and body. The work is endorsed by some of the best
men of the age.—_Star-Spangled Banner_
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We shall watch with keen interest the promised results of “Science and
Health with Key to the Scriptures.” The work shows how the body can be
cured, and how a better state of Christianity can be introduced (which is
certainly very desirable). It likewise has a hard thrust at spiritualism;
and, taken altogether, it is a very rare book.—_Boston Investigator_
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The author of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” which is
attracting much attention, shows her ability to defend her cause with
vigor.—_Boston Weekly Journal_
(_By permission_)
How To Understand Science And Health
_My Dear Friend H.:_—Your good letter of the 26th ult. came duly to hand
several days ago, and I am not greatly surprised at its contents. You say,
in substance, that you procured the book, “Science and Health with Key to
the Scriptures,” which I recommended, and that to your surprise and
disgust you found it to be a work on faith-cure, and ask by what process
of reasoning I could possibly bring myself to adopt or accept such
visionary theories. In answer to your very natural question, I will try,
in my own way, to give you what appears to me to be a reason for the hope
that is in me.
My religious views of fifteen years ago are too familiar to you to need
any exposition at my hands at this time. Suffice it to say that the
religion of the Bible, as taught by the churches, to my mind appeared to
be self-contradictory and confusing, and their explanations failed to
explain. During the next eleven years my convictions underwent little
change. I read everything that came in my way that had any bearing upon,
or pretended in any degree to explain, the problem of life; and while I
gained some knowledge of a general nature, I was no nearer the solution of
life’s problem than when I began my investigations years ago, and I had
given up all hope of ever being able to come to a knowledge of the truth,
or a satisfactory explanation of the enigma of life.
In all my intellectual wanderings I had never lost my belief in a great
First Cause, which I was as well satisfied to call God as anything else;
but the orthodox explanations of His or its nature and power were to my
mind such a mixture of truth and error, that I could not tell where fact
left off and fancy began. The whole effort of the pulpit being put forth,
seemed directed to the impossible task of harmonizing the teachings of
Jesus Christ with the wisdom of the world; and the whole tendency of our
religious education was to befog the intellect and produce scepticism in a
mind that presumed to think for itself and to inquire into the why and the
wherefore. I fully believe that the agnosticism of yourself and myself was
produced by the futile attempt to mix and harmonize the wisdom of the
world with the philosophy of the Christ.
In my investigations into the researches of the savants and philosophers I
found neither any satisfactory explanation of things as they seemed to
exist, nor any solution of the great and all-absorbing question, “What is
Truth?” Their premises appeared to be sound, and their reasonings
faultless; but in the nature of things, no final conclusion of the whole
matter could be reached from premises based wholly on material knowledge.
They could explain “matter” and its properties to their own satisfaction,
but the intelligence that lay behind or beyond it, and which was
manifested in and through it, was to them as much of a mystery as it was
to the humblest of God’s creatures. They could prove pretty conclusively
that many of the generally accepted theories had no basis in fact; but
they left us as much in the dark regarding Life and its governing
Principle as had the divines before them.
About four years ago, while still in the mental condition above indicated,
my attention was called to what at that time appeared to me to be a new
phase of spiritism, and which was called by those who professed to believe
in it, _Christian Science_. I thought that I had given some attention to
about all the _isms_ that ever existed, and that this was only another
phantasm of some religionist lost in the labyrinths of mental
hallucination.
In my reflections at that time it seemed to me that life was an
incomprehensible enigma; that the creator had placed us on this earth, and
left us entirely in the dark as to His purpose in so doing. We seemed to
be cast upon the ocean of time, and left to drift aimlessly about, with no
exact knowledge of what was required of us or how to attain unto the
truth, which must certainly have an existence somewhere. It seemed to me
that in the very nature of things there must be a great error somewhere in
our understanding, or that the creator Himself had slipped a cog when He
fitted all things into their proper spheres. That there had been a grand
mistake somewhere I had no doubt; but I still had doubt enough of my own
capabilities and understanding to believe that the mistake, whatever it
was, was in me and not in the creator. I knew that, in a fair measure at
least, I had an honest desire to live aright, as it was given me to see
the right, and to strive to some extent to do the will of God, if I could
only know certainly just what it was.
While in this frame of mind, I inwardly appealed to the great unseen power
to enlighten my understanding, and to lead me into a knowledge of the
truth, promising mentally to follow wherever it might lead, if I could
only do so understandingly.
My wife had been investigating Christian Science to some extent, but
knowing my natural antipathy to such vagaries, as I then thought them, had
said very little to me about it; but one day, while discussing the
mysteries of life with a judge of one of our courts, he asked me whether I
had ever looked into the teachings of the Christian Scientists. I told him
that I had not, and he urged me very strongly to do so. He claimed to have
investigated their teachings, and said that he had become a thorough
believer in them. This aroused my curiosity, and I procured the book
called “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and read it.
Before reading very far in it, I became pretty thoroughly nauseated with
what I thought the chimerical ideas of the author, but kept on
reading,—more because I had promised to read the book than because of
interest in its teachings; but before I had gotten through with it, I did
become interested in the Principle that I thought I discovered the author
was striving to elucidate; and when I got through it, I began again and
reread it very carefully. When I had finished reading this book the second
time, I had become thoroughly convinced that her explanation of the
religion taught by Jesus Christ, and what he did teach, afforded the only
explanation which, to my mind, came anywhere near harmonizing and making
cohesive what had always seemed contradictory and inexplicable in the
Bible. I became satisfied that I had found the truth for which I had long
been seeking, and I arose from the reading of the book a changed man;
doubt and uncertainty had fled, and my mind has never been troubled with a
serious doubt upon the subject from that day to this.
I do not pretend to have acquired the power it is claimed we may attain
to; but I am satisfied that the fault is in me, and not in the Principle.
I think I can almost hear you ask, What! do you believe in miracles? I
answer unhesitatingly, Yes; I believe in the manifestations of the power
of Mind which the world calls miraculous; but which those who claim to
understand the Principle through which the works are done, seem to think
not unnatural, but only the logical result of the application of a known
Principle.
It always did seem to me that Truth should be self-evident, or at least
susceptible of unmistakable proof,—which all religions seemed to lack, at
least in so far as I had known them. I now remember that Jesus furnished
unmistakable proofs of the truth of his teachings, by his manifestations
of the power of Mind, or, as some might call it, Spirit; which power he
plainly taught would be acquired by those who believed in the Principle
which he taught, and which manifestations would follow as signs that an
understanding of his philosophy had been reached. It does seem to me, that
where the signs do not follow professing Christians which Christ said
should follow them, there must be something wrong, either in his teachings
or their understanding of them; and to say the least, the foundations of
their faith require a careful re-examination, with a view to harmonizing
them with the plain teachings of the Christ in whose footsteps they
profess to follow.
I never could understand how God could be ever-present as a personal
Being, but I think I can and do understand how divine Principle can
pervade every thing and place.
I never could understand how heaven could be a place with gorgeous
fittings, but I think I can and do understand how it might be a spiritual
(or if you please mental) condition. Jesus said, “The kingdom of God
cometh not with observation: neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo
there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”
“Knowledge (or understanding) is power.” Since adopting the views of life
as set forth in “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” I have
seen proofs of what can be accomplished through a knowledge of the truth,
which to my mind amount to demonstrations, and which no longer seem
incredible, but which I do not ask another to accept upon my statements.
Every one must see or feel for himself in order to be convinced; but I am
satisfied that any who will lay aside their preconceived notions, and deal
honestly with themselves and the light they have, will come to a knowledge
of the truth as illustrated in the teachings and life of Jesus Christ;
that is, that Mind, or Soul, or whatever you may be pleased to call it, is
the real Ego, or self, and that mortal mind with its body is the unreal
and vanishing, and eventually goes back to its native nothingness.
Truth is, and ever has been, simple; and because of its utter simplicity,
we in our pride and selfishness have been looking right over it. We have
been keeping our eyes turned toward the sky, scanning the heavens with a
far-off gaze in search of light, expecting to see the truth blaze forth
like some great comet, or in some extraordinary manner; and when, instead
of coming in great pomp and splendor, it appears in the simpleness of
demonstration, we are staggered at it, and refuse to accept it; our
intellectual pride is shocked, and we are sure that there has been some
mistake. Human nature is ever the same. The Jews were looking for
something transcendently wonderful, and the absence of it made the Christ,
Truth, to them a stumbling-block. It was foolishness to the Greeks, who
excelled in the worldly wisdom of that day; but in all ages of the world
it has ever been the power of God to them that believe, not blindly, but
because of an enlightened understanding.
I always did think that there was something beautiful in the philosophy of
life as taught by Jesus Christ, but that it was impracticable and not
susceptible of application to the affairs of life in a world constituted
as this appeared to be. As I now view it, that belief was the result of
ignorance of the real power that “moves the universe,”—too much faith in
matter or effect, and not enough in Mind or cause, which is God.
To one who can accept the truth that all causation is in Mind, and who
therefore begins to look away from matter and into Mind, or Spirit, for
all that is real and eternal, and for all that produces anything that is
lasting, the doubts and petty annoyances of life become dissolved in the
light of a better understanding, which has been refined in the crucible of
charity and love; and they fade away into the nothingness from whence they
came, never having had any existence in fact, being only the inventions of
erring human belief.
Read the teachings of the Christ from a Christian Science standpoint, and
they no longer appear vague and mystical, but become luminous and
powerful,—and, let me say, intelligible.
It is true, as you intimate, that this theory of life is much more
generally accepted by women than by men, and it may be true that as a rule
their reasoning is much less rigid in its nature than that of the sterner
sex, and that they may be liable to scan their premises less keenly; but
may it not also be true, that they are of finer texture and more spiritual
in their natures, and that they may be just as likely to arrive at the
truth through their intuitions, in connection with their logic, as we are
through the more rugged courses? If it be true that man is the more
logical, the fallibility of our own reasonings very frequently becomes
painfully apparent even to ourselves, and they are therefore not the
safest gauge by which to judge others.
I believe, myself, that when it comes to standing up for Truth in the face
of the world, and possibly at the sacrifice of position and popularity,
women possess the necessary courage in a much greater degree than do men.
I had not intended to weary you with such a long letter, but after getting
into the subject, I hardly knew where to stop. As an old and loved friend,
I have given you a glimpse of my inner life, because I hardly knew how to
explain my mental condition to you in any other way....
FOOTNOTES
1 The order of this sentence has been conformed to the text of the
1908 edition of Science and Health. [24]
2 Quoted from the sixth edition. [30]
3 Quoted from the sixteenth edition.
4 A copy of the Bible was included among the books placed in the
corner-stone.
5 See the revised edition of 1890, or page 334 in editions subsequent
to 1902.
6 See edition of 1909.
7 See Science and Health, p. 47, revised edition of 1890, and pp. 152,
153 in late editions.
8 Page 292 of the revised edition of 1890.
9 Page 234, revised edition of 1890.