New Concerns with Demons and Exorcism in Greco-Roman Culture

The demon knocking over water bowls is a departure from traditional beliefs, but it foreshadows later ideas. This text introduces a new interest in demons, possession, and the need for exorcism. Exorcism was not part of biblical accounts but became popular during the Greco-Roman era due to the influence of Near Eastern beliefs. Even polytheists like Porphyry practiced exorcism by the third century CE. In earlier centuries, Mediterranean polytheists did not have a concept of demonic possession, only divine possession. However, now invoking names of power is necessary to stop it.