In biblical terms, a diviner is an individual who practices divination, which is the attempt to gain insight into future events or hidden knowledge through supernatural means. The practice of divination is explicitly condemned in the Bible, as it is often associated with pagan rituals and the worship of false gods. The Bible consistently warns against engaging in such practices, emphasizing reliance on God for guidance and wisdom.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament contains numerous references to diviners and divination, often in the context of prohibitions against these practices. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are instructed: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD." This passage highlights the severity with which God views divination, grouping it with other abominable practices.

In 1 Samuel 28, King Saul seeks out a medium at Endor to summon the spirit of the prophet Samuel, demonstrating his desperation and disobedience to God's commands. This act of consulting a diviner ultimately leads to Saul's downfall, illustrating the dangers and consequences of turning away from God's guidance.

Prophetic Condemnation

The prophets of Israel frequently condemned diviners and their practices. In Isaiah 44:25 , God declares His power over false prophets and diviners: "who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who confounds the wise and turns their knowledge into nonsense." This verse underscores the futility of divination in the face of God's sovereignty and wisdom.

Similarly, in Jeremiah 27:9 , the prophet warns the people: "So do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your soothsayers, or your sorcerers who say to you, ‘You will not serve the king of Babylon.’" Here, Jeremiah cautions against heeding the false assurances of diviners, urging the people to trust in God's word instead.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not address divination as extensively as the Old Testament, it continues to affirm the rejection of such practices. In Acts 16:16-18 , the Apostle Paul encounters a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination. Paul commands the spirit to leave her in the name of Jesus Christ, demonstrating the authority of Christ over demonic forces and the rejection of divination.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, divination is seen as an attempt to circumvent God's will and seek knowledge or power apart from Him. It reflects a lack of trust in God's providence and a desire for control over one's future. The Bible encourages believers to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, rather than through forbidden practices like divination.

In summary, the Bible consistently condemns divination and those who practice it, urging believers to rely on God for direction and understanding. The rejection of divination is rooted in the call to worship and trust in the one true God, who alone holds the future and possesses all knowledge.Diviner's (1 Occurrence)

Hosea 4:12
My people consult with their wooden idol, and answer to a stick of wood. Indeed the spirit of prostitution has led them astray, and they have been unfaithful to their God.
(See NAS)

Diviner's (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Diviner's (1 Occurrence). Hosea 4:12 My people consult
with their wooden idol, and answer to a stick of wood. ...
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Diviners (14 Occurrences)

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Divines (1 Occurrence)

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