Divination, in the context of the Bible, refers to the practice of seeking knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means. This practice is often associated with wizards, who are individuals believed to possess magical powers or the ability to communicate with the spiritual realm. The Bible consistently condemns divination and the practices of wizards, viewing them as contrary to the will and commandments of God.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament contains numerous references to divination and the practices of wizards, often in the context of prohibitions and warnings. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are explicitly instructed: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD." This passage clearly categorizes divination alongside other forbidden practices, emphasizing its abomination in the eyes of God.

Leviticus 19:31 further warns the Israelites: "Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the defiling nature of engaging with wizards and those who practice divination, highlighting the spiritual impurity associated with such acts.

The narrative of King Saul consulting the witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28 provides a poignant example of the consequences of seeking divination. Despite having previously expelled mediums and spiritists from the land, Saul, in desperation, seeks out a woman with a familiar spirit to summon the prophet Samuel. This act of disobedience ultimately leads to Saul's downfall, illustrating the dangers and futility of turning to forbidden practices.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not focus as heavily on the specific term "wizard," it continues to uphold the Old Testament's condemnation of divination and similar practices. Acts 8:9-24 recounts the account of Simon the Sorcerer, who practiced magic in Samaria and amazed the people. Upon hearing the gospel, Simon believed and was baptized, yet he attempted to buy the power of the Holy Spirit with money. Peter rebukes him, saying, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!" (Acts 8:20). This account reinforces the incompatibility of sorcery and divination with the Christian faith.

In Acts 16:16-18, Paul encounters a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination, who earned her masters a great deal of money by fortune-telling. Paul, troubled by her proclamations, commands the spirit to leave her in the name of Jesus Christ, and it departs immediately. This incident demonstrates the authority of Christ over spirits and the rejection of divination as a legitimate practice.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the practice of divination by wizards is seen as a direct challenge to the sovereignty and authority of God. It represents a reliance on powers other than God for guidance and knowledge, which is considered idolatrous and rebellious. The Bible's consistent denouncement of divination underscores the importance of seeking wisdom and direction from God alone, as emphasized in James 1:5 : "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

In summary, the practice of divination by wizards is unequivocally condemned throughout the biblical narrative. It is portrayed as a dangerous and defiling act that leads individuals away from the truth and guidance of God, emphasizing the need for faithfulness and reliance on divine revelation.Deuteronomy 18:11
Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 28:3
Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had lamented him, and buried him in Ramah, even in his own city. And Saul had put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Unclean Spirits.
... They practised divination in divers ways, but usually admitted ... be unto them as false
divination in their ... and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards," 2 Kings ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the unclean spirits.htm

What kind of divination did Joseph do in Genesis 44:5, 15? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about divination? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about palm reading? | GotQuestions.org

Divination: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus