Topical Bible: Divination: Effected Through: Raising the Dead

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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 of the more striking methods mentioned is the attempt to gain insight or foreknowledge through the raising of the dead, a practice explicitly condemned in Scripture.

Biblical Account: The Witch of Endor

The most notable biblical account of divination through raising the dead is found in 1 Samuel 28. King Saul, facing the Philistine army and desperate for guidance, seeks out a medium at Endor to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel. Despite having previously expelled mediums and spiritists from the land, Saul disguises himself and visits the woman at night. When the woman successfully conjures Samuel's spirit, Saul seeks counsel from the deceased prophet. The spirit of Samuel, however, rebukes Saul, foretelling his impending defeat and death. This account illustrates the futility and danger of seeking guidance through forbidden means. The Berean Standard Bible records Samuel's words: "Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?" (1 Samuel 28:15).

Condemnation of Necromancy

The practice of necromancy, or communicating with the dead, is unequivocally condemned in the Mosaic Law. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 states: "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 severity with which God views such practices, associating them with the abominations of the nations that Israel was to displace.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the attempt to raise the dead for divination purposes is seen as a direct affront to God's sovereignty and order. It reflects a lack of trust in God's providence and a desire to circumvent His established means of revelation. The Bible consistently teaches that God alone holds the keys to life and death (Revelation 1:18) and that seeking knowledge through the dead is both futile and spiritually perilous.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the focus shifts from the prohibition of necromancy to the affirmation of Christ's victory over death. Jesus' resurrection is the ultimate demonstration of God's power over life and death, rendering any attempt to manipulate or communicate with the dead both unnecessary and contrary to the faith. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, rather than through forbidden practices.

Historical Context

Historically, the ancient Near Eastern cultures surrounding Israel often engaged in necromancy and other forms of divination. These practices were typically associated with pagan religious rituals and were believed to provide insight into the future or the will of the gods. The biblical prohibition against such practices served to distinguish the Israelites as a people set apart for the worship of the one true God, who alone reveals truth and guides His people.

In summary, the Bible presents divination through raising the dead as a practice that is both forbidden and spiritually dangerous. It stands in stark contrast to the biblical call to trust in God's revealed word and His sovereign control over life and death.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 28:11,12
Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up to you? And he said, Bring me up Samuel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... Irrigation was effected formerly, as ... failed before their superior discipline, and
was left dead upon the ... as a vague shadow of him seen dimly through the haze. ...
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