There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his sonne, or his daughter to passe thorow the fire, or that vseth diuination, or an obseruer of times, or an inchanter, or a witch, Deuteronomy 18:10 (KJV)
Context: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament, part of the Torah, and it records Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this verse Moses instructs the people about practices that are forbidden in the sight of God.
Prohibition against child sacrifice: The verse begins by forbidding the practice of making children pass through the fire. This refers to a pagan ritual of offering children as sacrifices to false gods, especially the god Molech. God strictly bans this act, which was common among neighboring nations.
Divination: Divination is the attempt to gain knowledge of the future or hidden matters through occult means. It includes consulting mediums, fortune‑telling, or using objects such as tarot cards or crystal balls. The Lord warns Israel not to rely on such supernatural forces, which lead people away from Him.
Observer of times: This phrase denotes those who practice astrology or try to discern future events by observing celestial signs, such as the positions of stars or planets. God calls His people to trust Him for their future rather than depend on astrological signs or any other form of divination.
Enchanter: An enchanter casts spells, uses incantations, or engages in magical practices to manipulate people or events. Such occultic practices are condemned because they seek power apart from God.
Witch and related practices: The term witch refers to one who practices witchcraft or sorcery, seeking supernatural power for personal gain or harm. The verse’s broader list also includes a charmer, a consulter with familiar spirits, a wizard, and a necromancer, all of which are expressly prohibited.
In summary, Deuteronomy 18:10 enumerates several occult and pagan practices—child sacrifice, divination, astrology, enchantment, witchcraft, and related sorceries—that God commands His people to reject. He desires that Israel place its trust wholly in Him, seeking guidance and direction from the Almighty alone rather than from any pagan or occult source.
