In biblical terms, a soothsayer is an individual who claims to foretell the future or reveal hidden knowledge through supernatural means. The practice of soothsaying is often associated with divination, which is explicitly condemned in the Scriptures. The Bible consistently warns against engaging with soothsayers and other forms of occult practices, as they are seen as contrary to the will and guidance of God.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament contains several references to soothsayers and their practices. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are instructed: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable things the LORD your God is driving out the nations before you." This passage clearly categorizes soothsaying alongside other forbidden practices, emphasizing its detestable nature in the eyes of God.

In the book of Daniel, the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar calls upon soothsayers to interpret his dreams. Daniel 2:27-28 states, "Daniel answered the king, 'No wise man, enchanter, magician, or diviner can explain to the king the mystery of which he inquires. But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come.'" Here, Daniel contrasts the impotence of soothsayers with the true revelation that comes from God alone.

New Testament References

The New Testament continues to denounce the practice of soothsaying. In Acts 16:16-18 , the Apostle Paul encounters a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination: "One day as we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl with a spirit of divination, who earned a large income for her masters by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, 'These men are servants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation.' She continued this for many days. Eventually Paul grew so aggravated that he turned and said to the spirit, 'In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!' And it left her at that very moment." This account demonstrates the power of Christ over demonic influences and the rejection of soothsaying as a legitimate practice.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, soothsaying is seen as an attempt to gain knowledge or control over the future apart from God. It represents a lack of trust in God's sovereignty and provision. The Bible teaches that God alone knows the future and that believers are to rely on Him for guidance and wisdom. Isaiah 8:19 warns, "When men tell you to consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, should not a people consult their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?"

Cultural Context

In the ancient Near East, soothsayers were often part of the religious and political landscape, serving kings and leaders by interpreting omens and dreams. Despite their prevalence, the biblical narrative consistently portrays them as false prophets and deceivers. The Israelites were called to be distinct from surrounding nations by rejecting such practices and adhering to the commandments of God.

Conclusion

While the Bible acknowledges the existence of soothsayers, it unequivocally condemns their practices as contrary to the faith and obedience required of God's people. Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, rather than through forbidden and deceptive means.