Spells

Spells Constantine had allowed the heathen, in the beginning of his reformation, not only to consult their augurs in public, but also to use charms by way of remedy for bodily distempers, and to prevent storms. Many Christians were much inclined to this practice, and made use of charms and amulets. The Church was forced to make severe laws against this superstition. The Council of Laodicea condemns clergymen who made phylacteries. Those were condemned also who pretended to work cures by enchantments, diviners, etc., and those who consulted them. See Bingham, Christ. Antiq. bk. 6, ch. 5, § 6.