Definition and Context:
Sorcery, often synonymous with witchcraft, divination, and the use of magic, is explicitly condemned in the Bible. It involves the practice of attempting to manipulate natural or supernatural forces through rituals, spells, or other occult means. The Bible consistently portrays sorcery as an abomination and a direct affront to the sovereignty and holiness of God.

Biblical References:

1. Old Testament Prohibitions:
· Exodus 22:18: "You must not allow a sorceress to live." This verse underscores the severity with which sorcery was viewed in ancient Israel, warranting the death penalty.
· Leviticus 19:26: "You must not eat anything with blood still in it. You must not practice divination or sorcery." Here, sorcery is listed alongside other practices that defile the people and separate them from God.
· Deuteronomy 18:10-12: "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." This passage provides a comprehensive list of forbidden practices, emphasizing that such acts are detestable to God.

2. New Testament Condemnations:
· Galatians 5:19-21: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God." Sorcery is listed among the works of the flesh, indicating that it is incompatible with the life of a believer.
· Revelation 21:8: "But to the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and sexually immoral and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their place will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur. This is the second death." This verse highlights the eternal consequences for those who practice sorcery, placing them among those who will face judgment.

Theological Implications:
Sorcery is fundamentally opposed to the worship and reliance on God. It represents a rejection of God's authority and an attempt to gain power or knowledge through illicit means. The Bible's prohibition against sorcery is rooted in the call for God's people to be holy and set apart, relying solely on Him for guidance and provision.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near East, sorcery and related practices were common among pagan cultures. These practices often involved invoking the power of false gods or spirits, which directly contradicted the monotheistic worship of Yahweh. The biblical injunctions against sorcery served to protect the Israelites from adopting the idolatrous practices of surrounding nations.

Practical Application:
Believers are called to discernment and to avoid any involvement with occult practices, recognizing that such activities are not merely harmless entertainment but are spiritually dangerous. Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, rather than through forbidden practices that lead away from God.