Topical Bible: Sorcery: Practiced by the Egyptians

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Sorcery, as depicted in the Bible, is often associated with the use of supernatural powers or magic, typically in opposition to the will and power of God. In the context of ancient Egypt, sorcery was a significant aspect of their religious and cultural practices, often intertwined with their polytheistic beliefs and rituals.

Biblical Context

The practice of sorcery by the Egyptians is most prominently illustrated in the narrative of the Exodus. When Moses and Aaron confronted Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites, they performed signs and wonders as directed by God. In response, Pharaoh summoned his own magicians and sorcerers to replicate these miracles, showcasing the prevalent use of sorcery in Egyptian society.

In Exodus 7:10-12 , the Bible recounts: "So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the LORD had commanded. Aaron threw his staff down before Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a serpent. But Pharaoh also summoned the wise men and sorcerers, and the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their magic arts. Each one threw down his staff, and it became a serpent. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs."

This passage highlights the confrontation between the power of God and the sorcery practiced by the Egyptians. The magicians were able to mimic the miracle of turning staffs into serpents, but ultimately, Aaron's staff, representing God's authority, prevailed.

Role of Egyptian Sorcerers

Egyptian sorcerers, often referred to as magicians or wise men, held significant positions within the royal court. They were considered skilled in the arts of divination, enchantments, and other forms of magic. Their ability to perform supernatural acts was believed to be derived from their knowledge of the spiritual realm and their connection to the Egyptian pantheon of gods.

The magicians' attempts to replicate the plagues that God brought upon Egypt further illustrate their role. In Exodus 7:22 , it is noted: "But the magicians of Egypt did the same things by their secret arts, and Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said." However, as the plagues continued, the limitations of their sorcery became evident. By the time of the third plague, the magicians themselves acknowledged the divine power at work, as seen in Exodus 8:18-19 : "The magicians tried to produce gnats by their secret arts, but they could not. And the gnats were on man and beast. 'This is the finger of God,' the magicians said to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the practice of sorcery by the Egyptians serves as a backdrop to demonstrate the supremacy of the God of Israel over the gods of Egypt. The narrative underscores the futility of relying on human or demonic powers in opposition to the divine will. The repeated failure of the Egyptian sorcerers to counteract the plagues signifies the ultimate authority of God and His control over creation.

The Bible consistently condemns sorcery and similar practices, as they are seen as attempts to usurp divine authority and rely on powers contrary to God's will. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are explicitly warned against engaging in such practices: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD."

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Egypt, magic and religion were closely linked, with sorcery being an integral part of daily life and religious practice. The Egyptians believed in a complex pantheon of gods and goddesses, and magic was often used to invoke their favor or protection. Sorcerers and magicians were respected figures, often serving as intermediaries between the divine and human realms.

The biblical portrayal of Egyptian sorcery provides insight into the spiritual climate of the time and serves as a powerful narrative device to contrast the power of God with the limited and ultimately impotent magic of the Egyptians. Through these accounts, the Bible communicates the message of God's sovereignty and the futility of opposing His divine plan.

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Isaiah 19:3,11,12
And the spirit of Egypt shall fail in the middle thereof; and I will destroy the counsel thereof: and they shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to them that have familiar spirits, and to the wizards.
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Library

John i. 1
... Pythagoras occupied Magna Gr??cia, [28] and practiced there ten ... was nothing else but
a piece of sorcery. ... and unlettered; for Syrians, and Egyptians, and Indians ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily ii john i 1.htm

The Absurdity and Impiety of the Heathen Mysteries and Fables ...
... right well by the word of truth the sorcery hidden in ... of the Mother of the gods,
as practiced by the ... One of these charges the Egyptians thus: "If you believe ...
/.../clement/exhortation to the heathen/chapter ii the absurdity and impiety.htm