What is Divination?

Divination is the practice of contacting the dead in an attempt to gain information about the future or some other aspect of life that is beyond normal knowledge.  One can even use things such as objects or actions for divination.  There are several methods of divination, as listed below.

Rhabdomancy is a mechanical means of throwing sticks or arrows into the air for an interpretation of the position of the objects (Ezek. 21:21; Hos. 4:12).  Hepatoscopy is the study of livers or other entrails of an animal (haruspicy).  Prevalent among the ancient Babylonians, Semites, Greeks, and Romans this prognostication by seers through oracles is popular today in Burmah, Borneo, and Uganda.  The king of Babylon in Ezekiel’s day practiced this method of divination (cf. 21:21).1

Astrology is the most popular method of divination today.  This is the practice of reading the planets and stars assuming that they influence the lives of men.  Astrology is popular today because it offers people hope. With the help of astrology people believe that they can exert greater control over their present and future destinies.2  The Bible condemns this practice as being vain (Isa. 47:13; Jer. 10:2).

Necromancy involves contacting the dead.  This method is severely condemned by both the Law (Lev. 19:31; 20:6) and the prophets (Isa. 8:19, 20).  King Saul consulted a witch at Endor and was judged severely by God (1 Sam. 28:9-19; 1 Chron. 10:13).

Hydromancy is another mechanical means of divination by using water. The diviner either interprets the reflections in the water or induces a trance like state by this means.  Whatever the method of divination that is used, God strictly condemns all means of seeking hidden (“occult”) knowledge apart from His self-initiated revelation.

1 Merrill F. Unger, Biblical Demonology (Grand Rapids:  Kregel, 1994), p. 131.

2 John Ankerberg and John Weldon, The Facts on Astrology (Eugene, OR:  Harvest House, 1988), p. 10.