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4523
qualitative
journal
Ellwood, Gracia Fay. "Distressing Near-Death Experiences as Photographic Negatives." Journal of Near-Death Studies 15, no. 2 (Winter 1996): 83-114. Case: Drythelm.
Journal of Near-Death Studies, Vol. 15, No. 2, pp. 86-87, 1996
1996
M
Drythelm, a pious Anglo-Saxon householder, succumbed to a severe illness and was declared dead. He was met by a shining messenger who escorted him through otherworldly realms. First, he was taken to a huge valley where one side was aflame while the other underwent a hailstorm. Countless souls were tossed back and forth between these torments. The guide explained this was a place of temporary sufferings where souls could be released through masses and prayers from the living. Next, Drythelm was led through total darkness to hell itself - a bottomless abyss that was stinking and flaming. Damned souls were cast upward on flames only to fall back again amid sounds of jeering laughter and grief. Malignant spirits dragged three souls into the abyss and menaced Drythelm, but his guide rescued him. After this terrifying journey, he was led to realms of light and joy, including a walled paradisiacal meadow inhabited by many happy people. He approached heaven, which was even more wonderful, but despite his wish to remain, he was sent back to life. Following his return, Drythelm exchanged his lifestyle for one of monastic austerity, dedicating himself to spiritual practice.
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Unknown
5
8
19
Suggestive Evidence
6
Severe illness leading to apparent death documented in historical account
Multiple specific otherworldly observations including hell, purgatory, and heavenly realms
written_account
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7/23/2025
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