Why was witchcraft often the explanation for illness?

In the past, when scientific understanding of the causes of illness was limited, misfortune and illness were often attributed to supernatural forces, such as witchcraft or curses. Several reasons contributed to witchcraft's prevalence as a perceived cause of illness:

Lack of Medical Knowledge: In the absence of modern medical knowledge and diagnostic tools, people in earlier times had a limited understanding of the etiology of diseases and relied on superstition to explain what was often inexplicable. Factors like infections, fevers, or mental illnesses were not understood and could be attributed to witchcraft or evil forces.

Fear of the Unknown: The unknown can be intimidating and anxiety-provoking, leading people to seek explanations for misfortunes. Witchcraft provided a tangible and comprehensible explanation for unpredictable events or illnesses that seemed to defy natural causes.

Social Tensions: In times of societal distress or conflict, accusations of witchcraft could serve as a scapegoat to direct blame for misfortune or to marginalize certain individuals or groups within a community. Witchcraft accusations could also be used as a tool for control and power dynamics within communities.

Lack of Education and Scientific Awareness: Widespread illiteracy and limited education in past eras meant that many individuals lacked access to scientific information or explanations for natural phenomena. This made them more susceptible to believing in supernatural explanations, such as witchcraft, as causes of illness.

It's essential to note that today, advancements in medical science have vastly improved our understanding of diseases and their causes, diminishing the role of superstition in explaining illness.