The term seer is not commonly used today, but in biblical times, it was an important role.
A seer was someone who had a special ability to receive visions or messages from God.
They were often associated with prophets and played a key role in guiding people with divine revelation.
But what exactly does the Bible say about seers?
Were they different from prophets?
Do seers still exist today, or was this a role unique to biblical times?
By exploring Scripture, we can understand the purpose of seers, their connection to prophecy, and what their role means for believers today.
The Meaning of a Seer in the Bible
The word seer appears in the Old Testament and is often linked to prophets.
One of the earliest references is found in 1 Samuel 9:9, which explains,
“Formerly in Israel, if someone went to inquire of God, they would say, ‘Come, let us go to the seer,’ because the prophet of today used to be called a seer.”
This verse shows that before the word prophet was commonly used, individuals with divine insight were called seers.
A seer was someone who received visions, dreams, or direct revelations from God.
They had the ability to see into the spiritual realm, gaining insight that others could not.
Unlike regular teachers or leaders, seers had supernatural knowledge given to them by God for the purpose of guiding His people.
The Difference Between a Seer and a Prophet
While all seers were prophets, not all prophets were necessarily seers.
Prophets spoke God’s messages to the people, often delivering warnings, instructions, or encouragement.
Seers, however, were known for receiving visions and divine insight in a unique way.
One well-known seer in the Bible was Gad, who served as a prophet to King David.
First Chronicles 29:29 says,
“As for the events of King David’s reign, from beginning to end, they are written in the records of Samuel the seer, the records of Nathan the prophet, and the records of Gad the seer.”
This distinction suggests that while prophets often spoke messages from God, seers primarily received visions or direct revelations.
Seers were considered a specific type of prophet who had a unique way of seeing God’s will.
Seers in the Old Testament
The Old Testament contains several examples of seers who played important roles in God’s plan.
Samuel – The Seer and Prophet
Samuel is often considered both a seer and a prophet.
In 1 Samuel 9:19, Samuel tells Saul,
“I am the seer. Go up ahead of me to the high place, for today you are to eat with me, and in the morning I will send you on your way and tell you all that is in your heart.”
Samuel received visions and direct messages from God.
He anointed kings, warned Israel of their sins, and provided leadership based on divine guidance.
Nathan – The Seer to King David
Nathan was another seer who advised King David.
He delivered important messages from God, including the prophecy about the messianic lineage that would come through David’s family.
In 2 Samuel 7:4-5, God speaks to Nathan, telling him to deliver a message to David:
“But that night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying: ‘Go and tell my servant David, This is what the Lord says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in?’”
Nathan’s visions and messages helped shape the future of Israel.
Gad – The Seer Who Warned David
Gad was known as “David’s seer” and played a role in guiding the king’s decisions.
In 2 Samuel 24:11-12, God speaks to Gad about David’s actions:
“Before David got up the next morning, the word of the Lord had come to Gad the prophet, David’s seer: ‘Go and tell David, This is what the Lord says: I am giving you three options. Choose one of them for me to carry out against you.’”
Gad’s role shows that seers had a direct line of communication with God, and their visions often had serious consequences.
Do Seers Still Exist Today?
Many people wonder whether seers exist today in the same way they did in biblical times.
While the Bible does not specifically say that seers have ceased to exist, it does emphasize that Jesus Christ is the final revelation of God.
Hebrews 1:1-2 says,
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.”
This means that while God once spoke through seers and prophets, He has now revealed Himself fully through Jesus Christ.
Some believe that modern-day prophets may still receive visions, but they emphasize that any revelation must align with Scripture.
Since the Bible is complete, there is no need for new revelation outside of what God has already given.
Warnings Against False Seers and Prophets
The Bible also warns that not everyone who claims to be a seer is from God.
There were false seers in ancient Israel, just as there are false spiritual leaders today.
Jeremiah 14:14 warns,
“Then the Lord said to me, ‘The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds.’”
This warning makes it clear that not all visions come from God.
Some people claim to have divine knowledge, but their messages contradict Scripture.
First John 4:1 gives an important reminder:
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Any message from a supposed seer must be tested against the Word of God.
If it does not align with the Bible, it should not be trusted.
How Should Believers Seek Divine Guidance Today?
While seers played an important role in the Old Testament, today believers have a direct relationship with God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
Instead of seeking visions or messages from seers, Christians are called to seek God’s wisdom through His Word.
James 1:5 encourages believers to ask for wisdom:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
The Holy Spirit also plays a key role in guiding believers.
John 16:13 says,
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”
This means that believers no longer need seers to reveal God’s will—the Holy Spirit is their guide.
Through prayer, studying Scripture, and seeking God’s wisdom, believers can hear from Him directly.
Final Thoughts
The Bible teaches that seers were prophets who received divine visions and messages from God.
They played a key role in guiding Israel, delivering warnings, and revealing God’s plans.
However, with the coming of Jesus Christ, God has given His people direct access to Him through the Holy Spirit.
Today, believers do not need to seek seers for divine insight.
Instead, they are called to rely on Scripture, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
While God can still reveal His will in different ways, any message must always align with His Word.
The most important thing is to seek God personally, knowing that He is always ready to lead and direct His people.