What Does the Bible Say About Witchcraft? Faith Vs Occult

Witchcraft has intrigued, frightened, and divided people for centuries. From ancient rituals to modern-day pop culture portrayals, it has taken many forms. But what does the Bible—the foundational text for Christianity—say about witchcraft? Is it merely superstition, or does Scripture offer a deeper warning about spiritual danger?

To answer these questions, we must examine the Bible's specific passages, historical context, and theological implications regarding witchcraft. This article explores these in depth to provide a clear, informed understanding of what Scripture teaches.

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The Definition of Witchcraft in Biblical Terms

The Bible was written in ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and the term “witchcraft” in English is translated from several different original words. These include:

• Hebrew:

  • Kashaph – meaning to practice sorcery or magic.

  • Qesem – divination or seeking hidden knowledge from spiritual sources.

• Greek:

  • Pharmakeia – literally "drug use," but often used metaphorically to mean sorcery or magical arts.

In Scripture, witchcraft is not viewed as a harmless or neutral practice. Instead, it’s repeatedly associated with rebellion against God, deception, and the worship of other spirits or gods.

Old Testament: Strong Warnings and Punishments

In the Old Testament, witchcraft is strictly forbidden. Israel was meant to be set apart from the pagan nations surrounding them, many of which practiced divination, sorcery, and ritual magic.

1. Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NIV)

“Let no one be found among you who... practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells... Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

This passage is clear and comprehensive. Not only is witchcraft condemned, but so are related practices like necromancy (speaking to the dead) and interpreting omens.

2. Exodus 22:18 (KJV)

“Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.”

This verse is often cited in discussions about historical witch trials. While it reflected a legal code for ancient Israel, it illustrates the seriousness with which witchcraft was viewed. In context, this was not about folklore witches but about people using spiritual power to manipulate or harm others, often tied to idol worship and rebellion against God.

3. Leviticus 19:31 (NIV)

“Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.”

God’s command is not only about refraining from practicing witchcraft but also avoiding those who do. The defilement is spiritual and relational—it separates people from God.

Witchcraft in the Context of Idolatry

The Bible repeatedly connects witchcraft with idolatry—the worship of false gods or spiritual powers apart from the one true God.

1. 2 Kings 17:17

“They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire. They practiced divination and sought omens and sold themselves to do evil in the eyes of the Lord, arousing his anger.”

In this passage, Israel’s adoption of pagan practices is described as spiritual betrayal. Witchcraft was more than superstition—it was a rejection of God’s authority.

The Case of Saul and the Medium of Endor

One of the most striking biblical narratives involving witchcraft is the story of King Saul seeking out the witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28.

Saul, desperate for guidance before a battle, visits a medium to summon the deceased prophet Samuel. This was a direct violation of God’s law.

1 Samuel 28:7

“Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.”

Although Saul had previously banned such practices, his disobedience leads him to seek forbidden spiritual knowledge. The outcome is tragic. Samuel's spirit appears and predicts Saul’s death, reinforcing that seeking the supernatural outside of God’s will leads to destruction.

New Testament: Spiritual Warfare and Sorcery

While the Old Testament emphasizes law and punishment, the New Testament shifts focus toward spiritual warfare, urging believers to resist demonic influence and deception.

1. Galatians 5:19–21 (NIV)

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity... idolatry and witchcraft... Those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Here, “witchcraft” (Greek pharmakeia) is listed among behaviors that separate a person from God. It’s not just about rituals—it’s about rebellion, manipulation, and a turning away from the Holy Spirit.

2. Acts 8:9–24 – Simon the Sorcerer

Simon is a man who practices sorcery and amazes the people of Samaria. When he sees the power of the Holy Spirit in action, he offers money to receive the same ability.

Peter rebukes him harshly:

“May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God!”

This story shows the contrast between divine power and manipulative, self-serving magic. Simon’s motives were impure, and his desire to control spiritual power was condemned.

Acts 19:19 – Burning of Sorcery Scrolls

In Ephesus, many people who practiced sorcery heard the gospel and repented.

“A number who had practiced sorcery brought their scrolls together and burned them publicly... the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.” (Acts 19:19–20)

This moment represents a turning point. The people not only believed but took action to renounce witchcraft, showing that true repentance involves leaving behind spiritual deception.

Why the Bible Opposes Witchcraft

Biblical opposition to witchcraft is not based on fear or ignorance but on several spiritual truths:

1. Witchcraft is about control.

It seeks power or knowledge apart from God’s guidance. It promotes self-will over surrender to God’s will.

2. It opens doors to deception.

By engaging with spirits or forces outside of God, people become vulnerable to lies, manipulation, and spiritual harm.

3. It undermines trust in God.

Witchcraft often involves attempting to predict or control the future, bypassing the need for faith and obedience.

Is All Supernatural Practice Witchcraft?

Not necessarily. The Bible distinguishes between godly spiritual gifts and ungodly spiritual practices.

• Prophecy, healing, and miracles are presented as legitimate gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12).

• Divination, necromancy, and spellcasting are portrayed as counterfeit spiritual tools that lead people away from God.

The key difference lies in the source of the power—whether it comes from the Holy Spirit or from rebellious, ungodly spirits.

Modern Implications: What Does This Mean Today?

In the 21st century, witchcraft has been rebranded in many ways—Wicca, astrology, manifestation rituals, tarot readings, and energy healing are often seen as spiritual, empowering, or even harmless. But from a biblical perspective, any spiritual practice that bypasses God or seeks supernatural influence outside of Him falls under the category of witchcraft.

Christians are encouraged to be discerning:

“Test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1)

While some modern practices may seem benign, they can still open doors to spiritual confusion or bondage. The Bible consistently warns against mixing faith in God with occult practices.

Conclusion: A Call to Clarity and Commitment

The Bible’s stance on witchcraft is clear and consistent: it is forbidden, spiritually dangerous, and incompatible with a relationship with God. Rather than seeking power or knowledge through forbidden means, believers are called to trust in God’s wisdom, timing, and authority.

Witchcraft, in all its forms, is ultimately about substituting God’s will with one’s own. Whether it appears as ancient rituals or modern self-help spirituality, the Bible warns that these practices lead people away from truth.

For those who have dabbled in witchcraft or related practices, the message of the Bible is not just condemnation—but hope. Like the people of Ephesus who burned their scrolls and turned to Christ, anyone can repent, turn to God, and be restored.

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Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.