As a theologian, I have always taken a keen interest in Christian dogmas and beliefs. I recently was enthralled by the concepts of necromancy and related Christian insights.
I researched numerous Christian publications on necromancy, relating my findings with a biblical vantage point. I also visited clerics from different Christian denominations to acquire firsthand information on the topic from their perspective.
Early in the morning, I was asked by my workmate, who is a new Christian convert, if necromancy is evil. He also wanted to have a clear clarification of what the Bible says about necromancy.
Based on what I had recently researched, the Bible, and my Christian proficiency and knowledge, I was in a position to extensively address the question and give further clarifications.
So, is necromancy evil?
Different Christian denominations consider necromancy evil. The Bible in Leviticus 19: 31, Deuteronomy 18: 10 – 13, 1 Chronicles 10: 13 – 14, and other scriptures forbids the practice numerous times as it defiles the believers’ purity. Negative effects attached to necromancy include but are not limited to unbelief in God, spiritual captivity, death, and a lack of spiritual growth.
Stay in touch as I explore this topic to unravel what necromancy is, why necromancy is considered inherently evil, what the Bible says about necromancy, and if Christians should practice necromancy.
The article goes further to give an example of necromancy in the Bible.
What is necromancy?
The word necromancy was sourced from two ancient Greek words: nekros (dead body) and manteia (divination through). Therefore, the direct meaning of necromancy is divination through a dead body.
Although necromancers are believed to be capable of telling the future through the dead, necromancy is much beyond fortune-telling.
Necromancy is usually done with a specified objective, such as learning secrets and gaining forgiveness from the dead.
Why is necromancy considered inherently evil?
All Christians, regardless of denomination, believe that human spirits go to heaven or hell, depending on the person’s deeds while alive.
In Mathew 25:26, the scripture assures believers that sinners will go to eternal punishment, while the righteous will go to eternal life. Necromancy disrupts these Christian beliefs, thus being considered inherently evil.
What Does the Bible say about necromancy?
The Old and New Testaments imply that communicating with the dead through sorcery is evil. Different scriptures mention the consequences of conversing with the dead, including but not limited to defiling one’s self and being stoned to death.
Leviticus 19:31 warns the Israelites not to seek spiritists or mediums, lest they will be defiled. In the same book, chapter 20, verse 27 states that consulting mediums is a capital offense and should be punished by stoning to death.
In Deuteronomy 18:10-13, God detests talking to the dead and considers the practice an abomination. The scripture encourages Israelites to avoid divination, sorcery, or consult spiritists and mediums to stay blameless before God.
In extreme instances, the evil of necromancy leads to death, as stated in 1 Chronicles 10: 13-14.
Should a Christian practice necromancy?
Considering the Bible is the primary reference book for Christians, they should abide by its teachings on necromancy. In the New Testament, John 14:26 clearly states that humans should rely only on the Holy Spirit and not the spirit of the dead for guidance.
Practicing necromancy as a Christian is against Christian doctrines and will lead to the defilement of the believers, as stated in Leviticus 19: 31.
Therefore, Christians should not practice necromancy.
As a theologian, I have always been curious to learn more about the Christian Faith. That is why I pursued a Certificate in Christian Studies, Certificate in Christian Foundations and a Masters in Theology. I also have an immersive experience in editing for numerous websites. I have worked as an editor for over a decade and am currently the editor-in-chief at Christian Faith Guide. I enjoy working as an editor and feel privileged to share my expertise and help spread God’s word. You can read more about me on the about us page.
