A state of inspired frenzy or ecstatic possession believed to come from divine sources, involving temporary loss of rational control in service of higher truth or creativity. It describes the intersection of spiritual inspiration and apparent mental disturbance.
From Plato's concept of 'theia mania' describing four types of beneficial madness sent by gods: prophetic, ritualistic, poetic, and erotic. The concept influenced Renaissance ideas about artistic genius and romantic notions of inspired creativity.
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