A spiritist, in biblical terms, refers to an individual who engages in practices that attempt to communicate with spirits, particularly the spirits of the dead. This practice is often associated with necromancy, divination, and other forms of occultism that are explicitly condemned in the Scriptures. The Bible provides clear instructions regarding the engagement with spiritists and the spiritual dangers associated with such practices.

Biblical Condemnation of Spiritism

The Old Testament contains explicit prohibitions against spiritism and related practices. In the book of Leviticus, God commands the Israelites: "Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God" (Leviticus 19:31). This command underscores the defiling nature of spiritism and the importance of maintaining spiritual purity by avoiding such practices.

Further, in Deuteronomy, the Israelites are warned against adopting the detestable practices of the nations around them, which include spiritism: "There must not be found among you anyone who...practices divination or conjures spells, or interprets omens, or practices sorcery, or casts spells, or consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead" (Deuteronomy 18:10-11). The passage goes on to declare that anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD.

Historical Context and Practices

In the ancient Near East, spiritism was a common practice among pagan cultures. Spiritists, often referred to as mediums or necromancers, claimed to have the ability to communicate with the dead or with spiritual entities. These practices were often linked to idolatry and were seen as attempts to gain forbidden knowledge or power.

The account of King Saul consulting the medium at Endor is a notable biblical account of spiritism. In 1 Samuel 28, Saul, desperate for guidance, seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel. This act of disobedience further alienates Saul from God and highlights the spiritual peril of engaging with spiritists.

Spiritual Implications

The Bible consistently portrays spiritism as a rebellion against God’s authority and a reliance on powers outside of His provision. Engaging in spiritism is seen as a form of idolatry, as it places trust in spiritual forces rather than in God. Isaiah warns against seeking guidance from the dead, urging the people to seek God instead: "When they say to you, 'Consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter,' should not a people consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living?" (Isaiah 8:19).

New Testament Perspective

The New Testament continues to affirm the Old Testament’s stance against spiritism. In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul lists sorcery as one of the works of the flesh, warning that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. The book of Acts recounts instances where new believers renounce their former practices of magic and spiritism, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel (Acts 19:18-19).

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on spiritism is clear and unequivocal. It is a practice that is condemned by God and is seen as a serious spiritual offense. Believers are called to seek guidance and wisdom from God alone, rejecting any form of spiritism or occultism. The Bible encourages a life of faith and obedience, trusting in the sovereignty and sufficiency of God for all spiritual needs.(n.) A spiritualist.3049. yiddeoni -- familiar spirit
... Definition: spiritists. Word Origin from yada Definition familiar spirit
NASB Word Usage spiritist (2), spiritists (9). wizard. From ...
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The Second vision "On Earth"
... verses. Planchette is becoming a household god with many, and is openly advertised
in the Spiritist magazines and newspapers. Thousands ...
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Spiritist (2 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) A spiritualist. Multi-Version Concordance
Spiritist (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 20:27 A man also or ...
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Spiritists (8 Occurrences)

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Spirit (706 Occurrences)

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