Understanding Leviticus 20:6

Bible Verse: Leviticus 20:6 - "And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people."

Overview

This verse is part of a broader section of Leviticus that outlines the laws given to the Israelites regarding holiness, moral conduct, and religious practices. In Leviticus 20:6, God warns against seeking out familiar spirits and wizards, stating His severe punishment for those who engage in such practices. The essence of the verse underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and adherence to His commandments.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the dangers of turning to occult practices, which represent a significant betrayal of trust in God. He notes that the act of seeking forbidden knowledge through mediums or wizards is an indicator of spiritual unfaithfulness. Henry also draws attention to the severity of God's response—setting His face against those who commit such acts, which signifies divine rejection and separation from the community.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes explains that the term "familiar spirits" refers to those who claim to communicate with the dead or possess supernatural knowledge. The prohibition against such practices is clear, indicating God's desire for His people to rely solely on Him for guidance. Barnes also points out the communal aspect of the punishment—being "cut off" suggests both spiritual and social consequences for the individual and their connection to Israel.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke discusses the historical context in which these laws were given, highlighting that the Israelites were surrounded by nations that engaged in magic and divination. He emphasizes the call to holiness for God's people, stressing that involving oneself with spirits or wizards was not only dangerous but also contrary to God's intentions for their lives. Clarke adds that such actions reflect a heart that strays from covenantal fidelity.

Key Themes and Teachings

• Divine Authority: The verse showcases God's authority to set boundaries on spiritual practices, emphasizing the necessity of obedience to His commands.
• Holiness and Separation: It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness for God's people, who are expected to be distinct from surrounding cultures.
• Consequences of Rebellion: The potential for severe consequences, including divine rejection, underscores the seriousness of engaging with practices deemed abominable by God.
• Faithfulness to God: Believers are encouraged to place their trust in God alone, avoiding the pitfalls of attempting to gain knowledge or power from ungodly sources.

Application for Today

In contemporary contexts, Leviticus 20:6 prompts reflection on the nature of one's spiritual pursuits. Believers are encouraged to scrutinize their practices, ensuring they remain rooted in the teachings of Scripture rather than seeking validation or insight from questionable sources. The admonition to avoid dabbling in the occult or seeking apart from God remains relevant, urging modern readers to cultivate a genuine relationship with Him.

Related Cross References

• Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Prohibition against divination and sorcery.
• Isaiah 8:19-20 - A call to seek guidance from God rather than mediums.
• Galatians 5:20 - List of the works of the flesh, including witchcraft.

Conclusion

Leviticus 20:6 serves as a stern reminder of the importance of adherence to God's commandments regarding spiritual purity. The admonitions within suggest that believers should actively seek God and His guidance while avoiding any practices that might lead to spiritual compromise. The insights gleaned from various commentaries illuminate our understanding of how this verse speaks not only to the historical context of ancient Israel but also to contemporary Christian living.