The gift of healing, or even curing from a distance by whispering a religious formula passed down from one individual to another, is said to be a very ancient practice. Using unofficial prayers, it can relieve many physical illnesses and injuries, as well as certain psychological disorders. This ‘remote healing’ is a form of folk medicine (sometimes considered to be in opposition to conventional medicine) based on a body of empirical knowledge that is often scientifically inexplicable.
This practice, which is also used on animals, is unique in that it does not require any manipulation or, with a few exceptions, even direct physical contact with the person being treated. The ‘secret maker’ can act by telephone, text message or email, regardless of the distance or cultural background of the individual in distress. All they need to know is their name, date of birth and the area to be treated. Sometimes two or three attempts are required.
Performed on the basis of trust and criteria such as empathy, availability and seriousness, this act is generally carried out free of charge, although small sums of money are now readily accepted (but not required) as a token of gratitude. The rare attempts to profit from it still provoke strong indignation.
