Isaiah 8:19

And when they shall say vnto you; Seeke vnto them that haue familiar spirits, and vnto wizards that peepe and that mutter: should not a people seeke vnto their God? for the liuing, to the dead? Isaiah 8:19 (KJV)

Context: Isaiah 8:19 belongs to a larger prophetic address to Judah during a time of crisis. The northern kingdom of Israel, under King Pekah, and Syria, under King Rezin, formed an alliance to attack Judah, while King Ahaz sought assistance from Assyria—an action Isaiah warned against. In this perilous setting the people were tempted to turn to occult practices for security.

Seeking God’s Guidance: The verse underscores that the first priority of a people should be to seek God, the source of wisdom, guidance, and protection, rather than resorting to forbidden spiritual practices. Isaiah calls the nation to place its trust in the living God who actively cares for His people.

Familiar Spirits and Wizards: The passage specifically mentions “familiar spirits” and “wizards.” Familiar spirits were understood as evil entities believed to communicate with the dead, while wizards were practitioners of occult arts claiming supernatural insight. Both represent avenues that lead away from the true source of divine counsel.

God as the True Source: Isaiah’s rhetorical question—“shall not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?”—highlights the absurdity of consulting the dead when the living God is present and powerful. God alone possesses the power and wisdom to guide and protect His people.

Application Today: Although modern believers may not encounter the same occult figures, the temptation to seek guidance from sources outside God remains. The verse reminds Christians to turn to prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit for direction, maintaining allegiance to God above all other influences.

Discernment and Avoiding Occult Practices: Isaiah’s warning calls believers to exercise discernment and reject activities such as consulting mediums, fortune‑tellers, or any form of divination. The Bible consistently cautions against these practices, urging reliance on God’s Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

In conclusion, Isaiah 8:19 teaches the importance of seeking God’s guidance and avoiding occult practices. As believers, we should look to God as our source of wisdom, depend on His Word, and follow the Holy Spirit, remaining discerning and faithful to the truth of Scripture.