Meaning
A spirit believed to be available to or associated with a person who seeks supernatural knowledge or assistance through it.
Biblical Usage
In the Old Testament, Scripture uses familiar spirit for a spirit associated with forbidden supernatural practices. People who sought such spirits were described as consulting them or seeking information through them.
The law of Moses forbids Israel from turning to those with familiar spirits and commands the people to seek God rather than such practices. The account of Saul and the woman of Endor provides a prominent example of consultation with one who had a familiar spirit.
Key References
- Leviticus 19:31 — Israel is commanded not to turn to those with familiar spirits.
- Leviticus 20:6 — The LORD warns against turning after familiar spirits and wizards.
- Leviticus 20:27 — The law addresses a man or woman who has a familiar spirit.
- Deuteronomy 18:11 — Those with familiar spirits are included among forbidden practitioners.
- 1 Samuel 28:7 — Saul seeks a woman with a familiar spirit.
- 1 Samuel 28:8 — Saul disguises himself before visiting the woman at Endor.
- 2 Kings 21:6 — Manasseh uses familiar spirits and other forbidden practices.
- 2 Kings 23:24 — Josiah removes those with familiar spirits and wizards.
- Isaiah 8:19 — The people are warned against seeking those with familiar spirits.
Related Terms
- Witchcraft
- Wizard
- Divination
- Sorcery
- Enchantment