POLYNESIAN RESEARCHES. 
219 
CHAP. VIII. 
Description of Polynesian idols—Human sacrifices^—Antbropophagism— 
Islands, in which it prevails—Motives and circumstances under which it 
is practised—Tradition of its existence in Sir Charles Sanders^ Island 
—Extensive prevalence of Sorcery and Divination—Views of the natives 
on the subject of satanic influence—Demons—Imprecations—Modes of 
incantation—Horrid and fatal effects supposed to result from sorcery— 
Impotency of enchantment on Europeans—Native remedies for sorcery— 
Native oracles—Means of inspiration—Effects on the priest inspired— 
Manner of delivering the responses—Circumstances at Rurutu and 
Huahine—Intercourse between the priest and the god—Augury by the 
death of victims—Divination for the detection of theft. 
The system of idolatry, which prevailed among a people 
separated from the majority of their species by trackless 
oceans, breathing a salubrious air, inhabiting a beauti¬ 
ful and fertile country, and possessing the means, not 
only of subsistence but of comfort, in an unusual de¬ 
gree, presents a most affecting exhibition of imbecility, 
absurdity, and degradation. Whether we consider its 
influence over the individual, the family, or the nation, 
through the whole period of life—its oppressive exactions, 
its frequent and foolish rites, its murderous sacrifices, 
the engines of its power, and the objects of its homage 
and its dread—it is impossible to contemplate it without 
augmented thankfulness for the blessings of revelation, 
and increased compassion for those inhabiting the dark 
places of the earth. 
