Question

The common Irish expression of 'the seven devils' does not, it would appear, owe its origin to the supernatural influences ascribed to that numeral, from its frequent association with the greatest and most solemn occasions of theological history. If one were disposed to be fancifully metaphysical upon the subject, it might not be amiss to compare credulity to a sort of mental prism, by which the great volume of the light of speculative supersition is refracted in a manner precisely similar to that of the material, every day sun, the great refractor thus showing only blue devils to the dwellers in the good city of London, orange and green devils to the inhabitants of the sister (or rather step-daugher), island, and so forward until the seven component hues are made out, through the other nations of the eath?

Answer 1

The question explores the symbolic significance of 'the seven devils' and related metaphysical concepts of good and evil, as well as how these are represented in different cultures and historical moments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The expression 'the seven devils' seems to refer to cultural perceptions and superstitions related to the number seven and not to factual or historical entities. The discussion appears to delve into the abstract and metaphysical implications of good and evil, as well as their representation in literature and society.

The student's query discusses the symbolic use of demons and the devil across cultures and in different historical contexts, connecting it to allegories and cultural ceremonies that include idolatry and the invocation of demons. Additionally, the concept of the seven moving celestial bodies in ancient systems of thought might symbolize the metaphysical significance attributed to the number seven in various cultures.