Divination, as understood in the biblical context, refers to the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means. One of the methods by which divination is effected is through enchantments. Enchantments involve the use of spells or magical incantations to influence or predict events, often invoking the assistance of spirits or deities.

The Bible consistently condemns the practice of enchantments, associating it with pagan rituals and idolatry. In the Old Testament, the Israelites are explicitly warned against engaging in such practices. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , it is written: "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."

The use of enchantments is often linked with the broader category of sorcery and witchcraft, which are similarly denounced throughout Scripture. In the narrative of Balaam, found in Numbers 23, Balaam is a diviner hired by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. However, God intervenes, and Balaam is unable to use his enchantments against God's people. Numbers 23:23 states, "For there is no sorcery against Jacob, no divination against Israel. It will now be said of Jacob and Israel, 'See what God has done!'"

The prophets also speak against the use of enchantments. In Isaiah 47:9,12 , the prophet Isaiah warns Babylon of the futility of their enchantments: "But these two things will overtake you in a moment, in a single day: loss of children and widowhood. They will come upon you in full measure, in spite of your many sorceries and potent spells... Persist, then, in your spells and in your many sorceries, at which you have labored from your youth. Perhaps you will succeed; perhaps you will inspire terror!"

In the New Testament, the practice of enchantments is similarly rejected. Acts 19:19 describes the response of new believers in Ephesus who had previously practiced magic: "And a number of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books together and burned them in front of everyone. When the value of the books was calculated, it came to fifty thousand drachmas."

The consistent biblical stance against enchantments underscores the belief that reliance on such practices is a rejection of trust in God's sovereignty and provision. Instead, believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer and the study of Scripture, relying on the Holy Spirit for discernment and understanding.Exodus 7:11
Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also did in like manner with their enchantments.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 24:1
And when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he went not, as at other times, to seek for enchantments, but he set his face toward the wilderness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Infallibility of God's Purpose
... he has one great purpose which extends through all ages ... on your part, certainly it
never would be effected. ... Four times did he vainly attempt a false divination. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/the infallibility of gods purpose.htm

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