What the Bible Says About Magicians
The Bible, as a sacred text for Christians, Muslims, and Jews, contains numerous references to magicians, sorcerers, and other practitioners of magic. These references provide insight into the biblical perspective on magic and its role in ancient societies. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about magicians, their practices, and the divine response to their actions.
Old Testament References
The Old Testament, which is the first part of the Christian Bible, contains several references to magicians. One of the most famous instances is found in Exodus 7:11, where the Pharaoh’s sorcerers perform “magic” in the presence of Moses and Aaron. However, the biblical account indicates that their magic was ineffective when compared to the miracles performed by Moses and Aaron, such as turning water into blood and causing frogs to swarm the land.
In Exodus 22:18, the Bible explicitly prohibits the practice of witchcraft, sorcery, and divination: “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.” This verse is often cited as a clear prohibition against the use of magic. The book of Leviticus also contains various laws regarding magic and its practitioners, such as Leviticus 19:26, which states, “Ye shall not eat any thing with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times.”
New Testament References
The New Testament, which is the second part of the Christian Bible, does not contain as many references to magicians as the Old Testament. However, there are a few instances where the subject is mentioned. In Matthew 7:22, Jesus warns his disciples about false prophets who “come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” This passage can be interpreted as a caution against those who use magic or false practices to deceive others.
In Acts 8:9-24, the apostle Philip encounters a magician named Simon in Samaria. Simon performs magic by conjuring spirits, and the people of Samaria are amazed by his abilities. However, Philip preaches the gospel to them, and many come to believe in Jesus. The magician Simon, however, is left in awe and asks Philip to pray for him so that he might be able to lay hands on people and impart the Holy Spirit, as Philip had done.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bible presents a clear stance on the practice of magic, with both the Old and New Testaments addressing the topic. The Old Testament contains numerous references to magicians and their practices, often highlighting the divine response to their actions. The New Testament, while less explicit, still offers cautionary tales about those who use magic to deceive others. Overall, the Bible portrays magic as a dangerous and deceitful practice, one that is strictly prohibited and ultimately ineffective in the face of divine power.
