Spiritism

The use of mediums or other spiritual intermediaries to communicate with the dead. Scripture forbids such practices, which are inconsistent with obedience to a living God.

Spiritism forbidden by God

Leviticus 19:31 See also Deuteronomy 18:10–12

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.

Punishment for spiritism

Leviticus 20:27 See also Leviticus 20:6

A man or a woman who is a medium or spiritist must surely be put to death. They shall be stoned; their blood is upon them.’”

Spiritism practised in Israel

2 Kings 21:6 parallel 2 Chronicles 33:6 See also 1 Samuel 28:4–20

He sacrificed his own son in the fire, practiced sorcery and divination, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did great evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger.

Spiritists expelled from Israel

2 Kings 23:24 See also 1 Samuel 28:3

Furthermore, Josiah removed the mediums and spiritists, the household gods and idols, and all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem. He did this to carry out the words of the law written in the book that Hilkiah the priest had found in the house of the LORD.

The futility of spiritism

Isaiah 8:19 See also Isaiah 19:2–3

When men tell you to consult mediums and spiritists who whisper and mutter, shouldn’t a people consult their God instead? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?