Topical Bible: Divination: Effected Through: Inspecting the Inside of Beasts

◄ Divination: Effected Through: Inspecting the Inside of Beasts ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Divination, the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by supernatural means, is addressed in various forms throughout the Bible. One such method mentioned in ancient contexts is the inspection of the entrails of animals, a practice known as extispicy. This form of divination was common among several ancient Near Eastern cultures, including the Babylonians, Hittites, and Etruscans, who believed that the gods communicated their will through the entrails of sacrificed animals.

Biblical References and Context

While the Bible does not provide detailed accounts of extispicy being practiced by the Israelites, it does mention divination in general terms and condemns it as contrary to the will of God. The Israelites were explicitly instructed to avoid such practices, which were common among the pagan nations surrounding them. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Lord commands:

"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."

This passage underscores the prohibition against all forms of divination, including extispicy, as they are considered abominations to God. The Israelites were to rely solely on the Lord for guidance and revelation, distinguishing themselves from the surrounding nations who sought knowledge through such forbidden practices.

Historical and Cultural Background

In the ancient world, extispicy was a sophisticated and ritualized practice. Diviners, often priests, would examine the liver, lungs, and other organs of a sacrificed animal, typically a sheep or goat, to interpret omens. The shape, color, and markings of the organs were believed to convey messages from the divine realm. This practice was deeply embedded in the religious and political life of ancient civilizations, where leaders often sought divine approval or guidance before making significant decisions.

The Bible's prohibition of divination, including extispicy, reflects a broader theological principle: the sovereignty and uniqueness of Yahweh as the one true God. By rejecting these practices, the Israelites were to demonstrate their trust in God's providence and revelation, as opposed to the uncertain and deceptive nature of pagan divination.

Theological Implications

The biblical stance against divination, including the inspection of animal entrails, highlights the importance of faith and obedience to God's revealed word. The Israelites were called to be a people set apart, relying on the prophetic word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit rather than the uncertain and often misleading practices of divination. This distinction served to reinforce the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing that true wisdom and knowledge come from God alone.

In summary, while the Bible does not provide explicit accounts of extispicy among the Israelites, it clearly condemns all forms of divination as contrary to the worship and trust in the one true God. The practice of inspecting the inside of beasts, like other forms of divination, is rejected in favor of a life of faith and reliance on divine revelation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 21:21
For the king of Babylon stood at the parting of the way, at the head of the two ways, to use divination: he made his arrows bright, he consulted with images, he looked in the liver.
Torrey's Topical Textbook