Theophilus
The story of Theophilus, a legendary monk, is one of profound caution and ultimate redemption, resonating deeply during the Middle Ages. It was widely retold in numerous languages, featured in sermons, and immortalized in Ruteboeuf’s 13th-century drama, Le Miracle de Theophile. The tale explores the consequences of despair, the lure of power, and the boundless potential for forgiveness.
Theophilus and His Downfall
Theophilus served as the bursar of the church in Adana, located in northern Cicilia. He was a modest and devout man, highly regarded for his dedication. When offered the prestigious role of bishop, Theophilus declined, fearing he lacked the ability to fulfill its immense responsibilities. Instead, another man was appointed bishop. However, this new bishop, perhaps envious of Theophilus’ reputation, harbored a deep malice toward him. He subjected Theophilus to a campaign of torment and harassment, even accusing him falsely of sorcery. Theophilus’ life unraveled as he was stripped of his position and his dignity.
Overwhelmed by despair and bitterness, Theophilus sought revenge. He approached Salatin, described as an “evil old Jew,” who was said to have knowledge of dark arts. Salatin agreed to help and took Theophilus to a crossroads, a traditional site of supernatural power. There, Salatin performed a ritual in an exotic and arcane language, summoning the Devil himself.
The Pact with the Devil
The Devil, appearing in all his malevolent glory, offered Theophilus a terrible bargain: revenge against the bishop and the very position he once refused, but at the cost of his eternal soul. Consumed by anger and humiliation, Theophilus accepted. He renounced his faith in Jesus and the Virgin Mary, pledging allegiance to Satan. To seal the pact, Theophilus signed a document with his own blood, a symbol of the irreversible nature of his decision.
The pact was a sinister proclamation of Theophilus’ allegiance. According to Le Miracle de Theophile, it declared:
“To all who shall read this open letter, I, Satan, let know that the fortune of Theophilus is changed indeed, and that he has done me homage, so might he have once more his lordship, and that with the ring of his finger he has sealed this letter and with his blood written it, and no other ink has used therein.”
True to his promise, Satan orchestrated Theophilus’ rise. The evidence against him vanished, the corrupt bishop was deposed, and Theophilus was installed in his stead. Yet, instead of triumph, Theophilus felt an oppressive dread. The allure of power paled against the terror of eternal damnation.
Redemption Through Prayer
Haunted by his decision, Theophilus turned to prayer. Day and night, he implored the Virgin Mary for mercy, begging for her intercession. His prayers were fervent and unceasing, reflecting the depth of his regret and his hope for salvation. Moved by his genuine repentance, the Virgin Mary appeared to Theophilus. She interceded with God on his behalf, securing his pardon.
Relieved and grateful, Theophilus burned the blood-signed pact, publicly confessed his sins, and devoted the remainder of his life to piety and service. His story became a powerful testament to the mercy of God and the transformative power of prayer and repentance.
The Moral of Theophilus’ Story
The tale of Theophilus carries a timeless message: no sin is beyond forgiveness if one truly repents. His journey from despair to redemption served as a poignant reminder during the Middle Ages that the Devil’s snares, though powerful, can be overcome through faith, humility, and perseverance in prayer.
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SOURCE:
The Encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology – Written by Rosemary Ellen Guiley – Copyright © 2009 by Visionary Living, Inc.
