Witchcraft
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Witchcraft in the Bible?
In the ancient Near East, witchcraft encompassed practices such as consulting mediums, necromancers, and diviners to uncover hidden knowledge or influence future events. These activities were frequently categorized as illicit attempts to manipulate the supernatural for personal or political gain, standing in direct opposition to the monotheistic mandates of the Hebrew Bible.
SIGNIFICANCE
Examining the biblical prohibitions against witchcraft clarifies the theological boundary between legitimate prophetic revelation and forbidden divination, helping readers understand why figures like Saul were condemned for seeking guidance from the medium at Endor rather than relying on God.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Witchcraft in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Witchcraft clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.