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The question of whether the Catholic saint Francis Xavier was a devil posing as a saint has long been a topic of heated debate among historians. While traditional accounts celebrate him as a humanitarian and zealous missionary who brought Christianity to the East, a closer examination of his actions and the historical context reveals a different picture.

Mass Baptisms and Christian Exploitation

Francis Xavier, better known for his charitable work, had a darker side. He baptized over 4000 people in his lifetime. However, this act of baptism came with a significant caveat: the people were forced into Christianity through coercive and violent means. Historian Voltaire, in his writings on Goa, described the Inquisition as 'equally contrary to humanity and commerce'

Arriving on the scene in 1542, Xavier brought with him a strong resolve to 'uproot paganism' and replace it with Christianity. His methods were far from humanitarian. Xavier and his fellow Portuguese monks engaged in mass baptisms, often involving physical coercion and incentives such as money. Historian Teotonio R. de Souza documented the widespread destruction of Hindu temples and idols, replacing them with Christian churches and chapels.

The Portuguese Inquisition and Mass Dismemberment

The Portuguese Inquisition, established to enforce adherence to Catholic doctrine, was a dark chapter in Indian history. Historian Paul Roberts describes the gruesome practices carried out in Goa, including the dismemberment of children in front of their parents and the extraction of male genitals and vaginas through swords, all while ensuring that the victims remained conscious. These brutal methods were employed to intimidate and coerce people into converting to Christianity.

Fray Duarte Nunes and the Strategy of Coercion

Fray Duarte Nunes, a prelate of Goa, foresaw the long-term impact of such coercive methods. In as early as 1522, he acknowledged that while the first generation of converts might have joined the Church for material benefits, subsequent generations would adopt it as a way of life. This strategy of forced conversions and subsequent indoctrination was a cornerstone of the Portuguese mission in India, and its impact was felt for centuries.

The Letters and Demands for Inquisition

In his letters to the Jesuits in Rome, Xavier voiced his concerns about the brahmins and the need to enforce strict Christian doctrine. He wrote, ldquo;There are in these parts among the pagans a class of men called Brahmins. They are as perverse and wicked a set as can anywhere be found and to whom applies the Psalm which says: 'From an unholy race and wicked and crafty men deliver me, O Lord.rdquo;

His letters also reveal his desire for the establishment of the Holy Inquisition in Goa. In a letter to the King John III of Portugal on May 16th, 1545, he demanded the Inquisition be sent to Goa, citing the need to combat those who lived according to Jewish or Muslim laws. This was a direct call for the establishment of a brutal and systematic method of enforcing religious purity.

Conclusion

The legacy of Francis Xavier is complex, with a mix of humanitarianism and coercion. While his efforts to spread Christianity across the East are well-documented, the methods employed by him and his followers raise questions about the true nature of his mission. The brutal and inhumane practices employed under the guise of religious conversion should be a cautionary tale for all those who seek to use religion as a tool for power and control.

Key Takeaways:

Mass Baptisms: Forced conversions through physical coercion. Portuguese Inquisition: Brutal methods to convert and intimidate. Coercive Strategy: Targeting Brahmins and enforcing strict Christian doctrine. Letters: Xavier's letters to the Jesuits and the King of Portugal, highlighting the need for Inquisition. Hindu Tolerance: Despite trials and temptations, Hindus largely remained faithful to their traditional beliefs.

These insights offer a multi-layered perspective on the actions and intentions of Francis Xavier and the Portuguese missionaries in India.