

Yale Historian Uncovers Evidence for Levitation | Carlos Eire on Christian Miracles
10 snips Dec 23, 2024
Carlos Eire, a Yale historian specializing in early modern Europe and author of "They Flew," discusses the intriguing phenomenon of levitation across cultures and religions. He shares remarkable stories of Joseph of Cupertino, a saint whose levitation sparked both belief and skepticism. The conversation dives into the complex dynamics between the Church and miracle workers, including the scrutiny of miraculous claims. Eire also explores the interplay between technology and perceptions of the miraculous, inviting listeners to consider the evolving relationship between science and spirituality.
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Joseph of Cupertino's Levitation
- Joseph of Cupertino frequently levitated high in churches, shocking witnesses.
- One account details him flying outdoors, lifting a heavy cross, and placing it into a designated hole.
Attracting Powerful Figures
- Joseph of Cupertino's levitations often attracted powerful figures like princes and dukes.
- Their presence became burdensome for his Franciscan community due to the logistics involved.
Uneasy Relationship with the Church
- Despite the apparent divine nature of miracles, miracle workers like Joseph of Cupertino had uneasy relationships with the Church.
- The Church often isolated these individuals to manage the attention they attracted.