In biblical terms, a spiritist is an individual who seeks to communicate with spirits, particularly the spirits of the dead. This practice is often associated with necromancy and divination, both of which are explicitly condemned in the Scriptures. The Bible provides clear guidance on the dangers and prohibitions related to spiritism, emphasizing the importance of relying solely on God for guidance and wisdom.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament contains several references to spiritists and the practice of spiritism. In the Law given to Moses, God explicitly forbids the Israelites from engaging in such practices. Leviticus 19:31 states, "You must not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out, or you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God." This command underscores the defiling nature of spiritism and the importance of maintaining spiritual purity by avoiding such practices.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 further elaborates on this prohibition: "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." Here, spiritism is listed among other forbidden practices, all of which are considered detestable to God.

The narrative of King Saul consulting the medium at Endor in 1 Samuel 28 provides a poignant example of the consequences of seeking guidance from spiritists. Despite having previously expelled mediums and spiritists from the land, Saul, in desperation, seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel. This act of disobedience leads to further condemnation and foreshadows Saul's downfall.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not specifically mention spiritists, it continues to affirm the prohibition against engaging with spirits or seeking supernatural guidance outside of God. The early church encountered various forms of occult practices, and the apostles consistently warned against them. In Acts 16:16-18 , Paul encounters a slave girl with a spirit of divination. Paul commands the spirit to leave her in the name of Jesus Christ, demonstrating the authority of Christ over such spirits and the rejection of their influence.

The New Testament emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ and the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom. Believers are encouraged to seek the counsel of God through prayer and the study of Scripture, rather than turning to forbidden practices. In Galatians 5:19-21 , Paul lists "sorcery" among the works of the flesh, warning that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the prohibition against spiritism is rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and the sufficiency of His revelation. Spiritism represents a form of rebellion against God's established order, seeking knowledge and power apart from Him. It is a manifestation of humanity's desire to control and manipulate the spiritual realm, which is reserved for God alone.

The Bible consistently calls believers to trust in God's wisdom and to seek His guidance through prayer and the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit is given to believers as a counselor and guide, providing all that is necessary for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Engaging in spiritism undermines this relationship and opens individuals to spiritual deception and harm.

In summary, the biblical stance on spiritism is clear and unequivocal. It is a practice that is forbidden and considered detestable to God. Believers are called to rely on the Lord for guidance and to reject any form of communication with spirits outside of His ordained means.