Spiritists, also known as mediums or necromancers, are individuals who claim to communicate with the spirits of the dead. This practice is often associated with attempts to gain insight, guidance, or knowledge from the spiritual realm. The Bible addresses the topic of spiritism and provides clear instructions regarding its practice.

Biblical Prohibitions

The Bible explicitly prohibits engaging in spiritism and consulting with mediums. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to avoid such practices as they were considered detestable to the Lord. Leviticus 19:31 states, "You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the seriousness with which God views the practice of spiritism.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 further elaborates on this prohibition: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable things the LORD your God is driving out the nations before you."

Historical Context

In the ancient Near East, spiritism and necromancy were common practices among pagan cultures. These practices were often linked to idolatry and the worship of false gods. The Israelites, living among these cultures, were repeatedly warned to remain separate and not adopt such practices. The biblical narrative highlights instances where individuals sought out mediums, often with dire consequences.

One notable example is King Saul, who, in desperation, sought the counsel of a medium at Endor. In 1 Samuel 28:7-20, Saul, having lost favor with God, sought to communicate with the prophet Samuel through a medium. This act of disobedience further alienated Saul from God and led to his downfall.

Spiritual Implications

The Bible teaches that God alone is the source of wisdom and guidance. Seeking knowledge or guidance from spirits or the dead is seen as a rejection of God's sovereignty and a reliance on forbidden sources. Isaiah 8:19 warns, "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?"

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ and the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom. Believers are encouraged to seek the counsel of God through prayer and the study of Scripture, rather than turning to spiritists or mediums.

Theological Perspective

From a theological standpoint, spiritism is viewed as a form of spiritual rebellion. It represents a turning away from God and an attempt to access supernatural power apart from Him. This practice is often associated with deception and spiritual danger, as it opens individuals to influences that are contrary to the will of God.

The Bible consistently calls believers to trust in God's provision and to seek His guidance through legitimate means. The Holy Spirit is given to believers as a counselor and guide, providing wisdom and understanding in accordance with God's will. Engaging in spiritism is seen as a violation of the first commandment, which calls for exclusive devotion to God.

Conclusion

While the Bible acknowledges the existence of spiritual realms, it firmly instructs believers to avoid practices that seek to manipulate or interact with these realms outside of God's ordained means. Spiritism is consistently portrayed as contrary to the faith and practice of those who follow the God of the Bible.3049. yiddeoni -- familiar spirit
... 3048, 3049. yiddeoni. 3050 . familiar spirit. Transliteration: yiddeoni Phonetic
Spelling: (yid-deh-o-nee') Short Definition: spiritists. ...
/hebrew/3049.htm - 6k

On the First Commandment
... 319 Q. Do those who make use of spells and charms, or who believe in dreams, in
mediums, spiritists, fortune tellers, and the like, sin against the First ...
/.../kinkead/baltimore catechism no 4/lesson 30 on the first.htm

The Fourth vision "On Earth"
... familiar spirits" and guides. Spiritists, themselves, are well aware of
the dangers and evils of obsession. But presently there ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the fourth vision on earth.htm

Questions on the Explanations
... 699. Why does He not use them now? 700. What are mediums and spiritists?
701. How do bad Catholics do injury to the Church? 702. ...
/.../kinkead/baltimore catechism no 4/questions on the explanations.htm

The Second vision "On Earth"
... If Spiritists could see the end to which they are rapidly approaching, some might
be alarmed; and many ministers and religious professors would be prevented ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the second vision on earth.htm

Spiritists (8 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Spiritists (8 Occurrences). Leviticus 19:31 Turn
ye not unto the ghosts, nor unto familiar spirits; seek ...
/s/spiritists.htm - 9k

Spiritist (2 Occurrences)

/s/spiritist.htm - 7k

Spirits (129 Occurrences)

/s/spirits.htm - 42k

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