Definition and Context:
Sorcery and divination are practices that seek to gain insight or influence through supernatural means, often involving the invocation of spirits or the use of magical rituals. In the biblical context, these practices are consistently portrayed as contrary to the will of God and are associated with pagan religions and idolatry.

Old Testament References:
The Old Testament contains numerous prohibitions against sorcery and divination. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , the Israelites are explicitly warned: "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."

The narrative of King Saul consulting the medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28:7-25) illustrates the desperation and disobedience associated with seeking guidance through forbidden means. Despite knowing the prohibition, Saul seeks out a medium, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

New Testament References:
In the New Testament, sorcery and divination are similarly condemned. Acts 8:9-24 recounts the account of Simon the Sorcerer, who practiced magic in Samaria and attempted to buy the power of the Holy Spirit from the apostles. Peter rebukes him, saying, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!" (Acts 8:20).

The Apostle Paul encounters a slave girl with a spirit of divination in Philippi (Acts 16:16-18). Paul commands the spirit to leave her in the name of Jesus Christ, demonstrating the authority of Christ over demonic powers.

Theological Implications:
Sorcery and divination are seen as attempts to circumvent God's sovereignty and seek power or knowledge apart from Him. These practices are often linked with idolatry, as they involve reliance on spiritual forces other than God. The Bible consistently calls believers to trust in God's wisdom and guidance rather than seeking forbidden knowledge or power.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:
The biblical stance against sorcery and divination underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and His commandments. Engaging in such practices is viewed as a form of spiritual adultery, betraying the exclusive relationship between God and His people. The moral imperative is to seek God's will through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sorcery and divination were common practices used to predict the future, influence events, or communicate with the dead. These practices were often intertwined with the worship of false gods and were a significant aspect of the religious life of surrounding nations. The biblical prohibitions served to distinguish the Israelites as a people set apart for the worship of the one true God.

Conclusion:
While the Bible acknowledges the reality of supernatural powers, it unequivocally condemns the use of sorcery and divination. Believers are called to rely on God's providence and to reject any practices that seek to manipulate or control spiritual forces outside of His ordained means.