Key in a Bible
In witchcraft lore, the Bible and a key was a tool in
divination. The key could be suspended from a chain or cord and
replicate a pendulum when asked a question over the pages. It was
believed if this was done on New Year's Eve, one may know the
future of the incoming year. Further, the key in a bible may
also be able to identify thieves and even curse people.
In 1697 John Fergusson of Cummertrees was accused of using
witchcraft to identify a thief who had taken his sack of cheese and
herrings. It was claimed that he had placed a key inside a Bible
and then named various local people. The Bible and the key had
moved at the mention of William M'Kinnel of Bankend.
Object no :
DMWL005n
Collection :
Creator :
NA
Place of Production :
NA
Dimensions :
NA
Materials :
NA
Location :
NA
Accession number :
DUMFM:1948.78.1
Copyright :
Dumfries & Galloway Council
