“For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so to do.”
Deuteronomy 18:14 is part of a larger passage in which Moses is addressing the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this specific verse, Moses warns the Israelites against following the practices of the pagan nations they would encounter in Canaan.
Historical Context: The Israelites had been delivered from slavery in Egypt and were about to inherit the land promised to them by God. However, the land was occupied by various Canaanite nations who engaged in occult practices, including divination and seeking guidance from astrologers or soothsayers. The verse aims to remind the Israelites of God’s specific instructions regarding these practices.
Prohibition of Pagan Practices: The verse emphasizes that the surrounding nations “hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners.” Observers of times refers to those who practiced divination, attempting to foretell the future through astrology or other means. Diviners were individuals who claimed to possess supernatural powers to gain hidden knowledge or to communicate with spirits. These practices were widespread among the pagan nations, but the Israelites were strictly prohibited from engaging in them.
Divine Instruction: Moses reminds the Israelites that the LORD their God had not allowed them to follow such practices. This highlights the distinction between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. God had given them specific laws and guidelines to live by, including a prohibition on seeking guidance or knowledge through divination. Instead, the Israelites were to seek their guidance and direction directly from God.
Trusting in God’s Guidance: By prohibiting divination and similar practices, God wanted the Israelites to place their trust solely in Him. Throughout the Old Testament, God repeatedly affirms that He is the only true God, and His people are to rely on Him for guidance, protection, and provision. Trusting in other methods of seeking knowledge or supernatural guidance would undermine their faith in God and open them up to spiritual dangers.
Application Today: While Deuteronomy 18:14 specifically addresses divination and related practices, the broader principle of trusting in God’s guidance remains applicable today. As believers, we are called to seek God’s will through prayer, reading His Word (the Bible), and relying on the Holy Spirit for discernment. Engaging in occult practices, seeking guidance from mediums, or relying on superstitions is contrary to the biblical teachings and can lead us away from God’s truth.
In summary, Deuteronomy 18:14 serves as a reminder to the Israelites to avoid the practices of divination and seeking guidance from astrologers or soothsayers that were prevalent among the pagan nations. Instead, they were to trust in the LORD their God for guidance. This passage also teaches us the importance of seeking God’s will and guidance through prayer, studying His Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit in our lives today.
