King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 18:10 Mean?
“There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,”
Context
8
They shall have like portions to eat, beside that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony. that: Heb. his sale by the fathers
9
When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.
10
There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,
11
Or a charmer , or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer .
12
For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **To pass through the fire.**—See Leviticus 18:21.
**Useth divination**—(Numbers 22:7), possibly by sacrifices.
**Observer of times.**—This is the Rabbinical explanation of the word. In Hebrew the idea of “time” is not so clear. *It *seems to mean practising *hidden *arts. (See Leviticus 19:26.)
**Enchanter.**—Whisperer, or serpent charmer. (See Genesis 44:5.)
**Witch.**—One who uses charms or spells (Exodus 7:11).
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Deuteronomy 18:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 18:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge