Topical Bible: Divination: Effected Through: Observing Heavenly Bodies

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Divination, the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown by supernatural means, is addressed in various forms throughout the Bible. One specific method of divination mentioned in the Scriptures is the observation of heavenly bodies, such as stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena. This practice is often associated with astrology, where individuals attempt to predict events or gain insight based on the positions and movements of celestial objects.

Biblical References and Context

The Bible explicitly warns against the practice of divination, including the observation of heavenly bodies, as it is considered an abomination to the Lord. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are instructed: "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 practice of astrology and the worship of celestial bodies is further condemned in the prophetic writings. In Isaiah 47:13-14 , the prophet mocks the astrologers of Babylon: "You are wearied by your many counselors; let them stand up now and save you—those who divide the heavens and gaze at the stars, who predict by the new moons what will happen to you. Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up. They cannot even save themselves from the power of the flame."

Historical and Cultural Background

In the ancient Near East, the observation of heavenly bodies was a common practice among various cultures, including the Babylonians and Egyptians. These civilizations developed complex systems of astrology, believing that the stars and planets influenced earthly events and human destinies. Such practices often involved the worship of celestial deities and were deeply intertwined with the religious and political life of these societies.

The Israelites, living amidst these cultures, were repeatedly warned by God through the Law and the Prophets to avoid adopting such practices. The worship of the "host of heaven" is specifically mentioned as a sin that led to the downfall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, as recorded in 2 Kings 17:16 : "They abandoned all the commandments of the LORD their God and made for themselves two cast idols of calves and an Asherah pole. They worshiped all the host of heaven and served Baal."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the practice of divination through observing heavenly bodies is seen as a rejection of God's sovereignty and a reliance on created things rather than the Creator. The Bible emphasizes that God alone is the source of wisdom and knowledge, and He alone knows the future. In Isaiah 40:26 , the prophet declares, "Lift up your eyes on high: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, calling each by name. Because of His great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing."

The Scriptures consistently affirm that God is in control of the universe, and He alone should be the object of worship and trust. The practice of astrology and divination through celestial observation is thus viewed as idolatrous and contrary to the faith and trust that believers are called to place in God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 37:13
Where is the king of Hamath, and the king of Arphad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivah?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Summa Theologica
... Whether Adam in the state of innocence saw the angels through their essence? ... Whether
the heavenly bodies are the cause of what is produced in bodies here below ...
//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/