Magic and Divination in the Old Testament

Humans, since time immemorial, have tried to discover and influence the will of spirits and deities that they believed to be in charge of their lives. As a result, all cultures have produced certain special individuals thought to be closely in touch with the powers of the supernatural world. Was this true of ancient Israel? If so, who were the occult experts and what techniques were used by them? This study explores the many practices and rituals associated with magic and divination among the ancient Israelites as documented in the Old Testament. Seeking omens and consulting seers and diviners were widely practiced, though in the biblical text such activities are roundly condemned. Solomon Nigosian’s scholarly work is written in language that makes it absorbing reading for both the biblical scholar and the layperson.

Solomon Nigosian, Ph.D., was Research Associate at the University of Toronto, Victoria College, specializing in Biblical and Near Eastern Religions. His numerous books include From Ancient Writings to Sacred Texts: The Old Testament and the Apocrypha, The Zoroastrian Faith: Tradition and Modern Research, Islam: Its History Teaching and Practices, and World Religions: A Historical Approach, 4th ed. Dr. Nigosian wass the recipient of numerous honours and awards.