The Bible mentions familiar spirits in the context of warning against occult practices. It views engaging with familiar spirits, which are understood as a form of demonic spirits, as contrary to God’s will. The scripture specifically forbids consulting with mediums and spiritists, seeing it as an act of rebellion against God.
Wondering about the biblical perspective on familiar spirits? Scripture offers clear guidance on this, emphasizing the dangers of engaging with the occult and spiritism.
What Does the Bible Say About Familiar Spirits?
The term “familiar spirits” in the Bible refers to spirits that are believed to assist witches and mediums. The Bible’s stance on this topic is unequivocal: it strongly condemns any form of interaction with familiar spirits or participation in occult practices.
In the Old Testament, the Law given to the Israelites explicitly forbids consulting with mediums and spiritists. Familiar spirits are associated with these forbidden practices. For instance, the law in Leviticus 19:31 states, “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them.” This prohibition reflects the broader biblical principle that God alone is the source of wisdom and knowledge, and seeking insight through spirits is seen as a form of idolatry and rebellion against Him.
The narrative of King Saul consulting the Witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28 is a key example of the Bible’s view on familiar spirits. Saul’s decision to seek a medium, after God had stopped communicating with him, led to his downfall. This story serves as a warning against turning to spiritism and underscores the consequences of such actions.
In the New Testament, while the term “familiar spirits” is not used explicitly, the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles continue to denounce practices related to spiritism and witchcraft. For example, in the book of Acts, the story of a slave girl possessed by a spirit that enabled her to predict the future highlights the early church’s opposition to spiritism.
The Bible also provides guidance on how to respond to the spiritual realm. It encourages discernment, faith in God, and reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than seeking knowledge or power from other spirits. The overarching message is one of trust in God’s sovereignty and a rejection of any form of spiritual guidance that contradicts His Word.
In summary, the Bible’s view on familiar spirits is part of its wider teachings against occult practices. It warns of the spiritual danger and moral corruption associated with these practices, advocating instead for a life centered on God’s truth and guidance
Bible Verses About Familiar Spirits
- Leviticus 19:31: “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.” A clear prohibition against engaging with mediums and familiar spirits.
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12: “Let no one be found among you who… consults mediums and spiritists, or who seeks oracles from the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.” This passage categorically condemns practices related to familiar spirits.
- 1 Samuel 28: The story of King Saul consulting the Witch of Endor, which resulted in dire consequences for him.
- Acts 16:16-18: The account of Paul casting out a spirit of divination from a slave girl, demonstrating the early church’s opposition to spiritism.
- Isaiah 8:19: “When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?” Isaiah challenges the idea of consulting spirits, advocating for reliance on God.
- Galatians 5:19-21: “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft… those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” This includes practices associated with familiar spirits in the list of deeds that are against God’s will.
- Exodus 22:18: “Do not allow a sorceress to live.” Reflecting the seriousness with which these practices were viewed in Old Testament times.
- Leviticus 20:6: “I will set my face against anyone who turns to mediums and spiritists to prostitute themselves by following them, and I will cut them off from their people.” This verse emphasizes God’s opposition to consulting with familiar spirits.
- 2 Kings 21:6: King Manasseh’s involvement in witchcraft and consultation with familiar spirits, which was condemned and seen as contributing to his downfall.
- Revelation 21:8: “But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur.” This verse includes those who practice magic arts, which could encompass interaction with familiar spirits, in the list of those who are outside God’s kingdom.
These verses collectively highlight the Bible’s strong stance against familiar spirits and related occult practices. They reflect the consistent biblical theme that seeking spiritual guidance and power from sources other than God is not only forbidden but is also spiritually harmful. The scripture encourages reliance on God alone and adherence to His Word as the true source of wisdom and spiritual truth.