Bible Verses

50+ Bible Verses About Familiar Spirits (And What They Mean)

Updated:
May 12, 2025
|
Author:
Joseph Cox

Familiar spirits are a topic that often sparks curiosity and debate. This article brings together 50 Bible verses that address these spirits, offering a comprehensive look at what the scriptures say.

Whether you're studying for personal insight or academic purposes, these verses provide a clear perspective. Each verse is carefully selected to help you understand the biblical stance on familiar spirits.

What Does the Bible Say About Familiar Spirits

The Bible has a lot to say about familiar spirits, offering guidance and wisdom for those seeking to understand their significance. These verses provide a clear message about the dangers and consequences of engaging with such spirits. By reflecting on these teachings, we can find hope and direction for our daily lives.

One key theme is the strong warnings against consulting familiar spirits. Verses like Leviticus 19:31 and Deuteronomy 18:10-12 make it clear that seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists is not in line with God's will. These warnings remind us to seek wisdom from God rather than turning to other sources that can lead us astray.

Another important theme is the consequences of consulting spirits. Stories like that of Saul in 1 Samuel 28:7-18 show how turning to mediums can lead to negative outcomes. These verses highlight the importance of making wise choices and seeking guidance from trustworthy sources, especially in difficult times.

God's view on spirit mediums is also evident in the Bible. Verses like Leviticus 20:27 and Deuteronomy 18:14 emphasize that God does not approve of these practices. This theme encourages us to stay true to our faith and avoid practices that can distance us from God's love and guidance.

Finally, the Bible offers hope and protection from evil spirits. Verses like Ephesians 6:11-12 and Psalm 91:11 remind us that we are not alone and that divine protection is always available. Embracing these teachings can bring comfort and strength, helping us navigate life's challenges with faith and confidence.

50 Bible Verses About Familiar Spirits

10 Bible Verses on Warnings Against Familiar Spirits

1) Leviticus 19:31

Leviticus 19:31

Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.

Meaning: This verse underscores the importance of seeking guidance from God rather than other sources. It’s a reminder that turning to familiar spirits can lead us away from the divine path.

2) Deuteronomy 18:10-12

There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you.

Meaning: While the world often glorifies seeking answers from various sources, this verse reminds us that true guidance comes from a higher place. It's a call to trust in divine wisdom over worldly practices.

3) Isaiah 8:19

And when they say to you, "Seek those who are mediums and wizards, who whisper and mutter," should not a people seek their God? Should they seek the dead on behalf of the living?

Meaning: It's a gentle nudge to reconsider where we turn for guidance. Could it be that true wisdom lies in seeking a higher, divine source rather than earthly ones?

4) Leviticus 20:6

And the person who turns to mediums and familiar spirits, to prostitute himself with them, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people.

Meaning: When you seek guidance from sources other than the divine, it's like turning your back on a trusted friend. The message here is clear: stay true to the path that leads to genuine wisdom and connection.

5) 2 Kings 21:6

Also he made his son pass through the fire, practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft, and consulted spiritists and mediums. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: When we turn to harmful practices for guidance, we stray from a path of integrity and wisdom. Choosing positive, uplifting sources can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful life.

6) 1 Chronicles 10:13

So Saul died for his unfaithfulness which he had committed against the Lord, because he did not keep the word of the Lord, and also because he consulted a medium for guidance.

Meaning: What happens when we seek answers from the wrong places? It’s a reminder that true guidance comes from staying faithful, even when other sources seem tempting.

7) 2 Chronicles 33:6

Also he caused his sons to pass through the fire in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom; he practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft and sorcery, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did much evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: It's like choosing a dark path when a bright one is right beside you. Reflect on the sources you turn to for guidance and consider if they lead you towards light and wisdom.

8) Micah 5:12

I will cut off sorceries from your hand, and you shall have no soothsayers.

Meaning: It's like the relief you feel when a heavy burden is lifted. Imagine the freedom of letting go of things that only bring confusion and finding clarity in a simpler, more honest path.

9) Galatians 5:19-21

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Meaning: This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of aligning our actions with higher values. In a world full of distractions, staying true to these principles can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

10) Revelation 21:8

But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.

Meaning: We often find ourselves caught up in actions that lead us away from our true purpose. What if we chose a path that brings us closer to a more meaningful and fulfilling life?

10 Bible Verses on Consequences of Consulting Spirits

11) 1 Samuel 28:7-18

1 Samuel 28:7-18

Then Saul said to his servants, "Find me a woman who is a medium, that I may go to her and inquire of her." And his servants said to him, "In fact, there is a woman who is a medium at En Dor." So Saul disguised himself and put on other clothes, and he went, and two men with him; and they came to the woman by night. And he said, "Please conduct a séance for me, and bring up for me the one I shall name to you." Then the woman said to him, "Look, you know what Saul has done, how he has cut off the mediums and the spiritists from the land. Why then do you lay a snare for my life, to cause me to die?" And Saul swore to her by the Lord, saying, "As the Lord lives, no punishment shall come upon you for this thing." Then the woman said, "Whom shall I bring up for you?" And he said, "Bring up Samuel for me." When the woman saw Samuel, she cried out with a loud voice. And the woman spoke to Saul, saying, "Why have you deceived me? For you are Saul!" And the king said to her, "Do not be afraid. What did you see?" And the woman said to Saul, "I saw a spirit ascending out of the earth." So he said to her, "What is his form?" And she said, "An old man is coming up, and he is covered with a mantle." And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground and bowed down. Now Samuel said to Saul, "Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?" And Saul answered, "I am deeply distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God has departed from me and does not answer me anymore, neither by prophets nor by dreams. Therefore I have called you, that you may reveal to me what I should do." Then Samuel said: "So why do you ask me, seeing the Lord has departed from you and has become your enemy? And the Lord has done for Himself as He spoke by me. For the Lord has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor, David. Because you did not obey the voice of the Lord nor execute His fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore the Lord has done this thing to you this day. Moreover the Lord will also deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines. And tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The Lord will also deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines."

Meaning: Sometimes, the choices we make in desperation can lead us down paths we never intended to take. It's a reminder to seek wisdom and guidance from the right places, even when times are tough.

12) Isaiah 47:13-14

You are wearied in the multitude of your counsels; let now the astrologers, the stargazers, and the monthly prognosticators stand up and save you from what shall come upon you. Behold, they shall be as stubble, the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame; it shall not be a coal to be warmed by, nor a fire to sit before!

Meaning: It's like realizing that relying on unreliable sources can lead to disappointment. True guidance often comes from more steadfast and trustworthy places.

13) Acts 16:16-18

Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, "These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation." And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And he came out that very hour.

Meaning: The power of faith and divine authority can bring about immediate and profound change, breaking the chains of oppression and leading to true freedom.

14) 1 Chronicles 10:14

But he did not inquire of the Lord; therefore He killed him, and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse.

Meaning: Embrace the wisdom of seeking guidance from a higher source in your daily decisions. It’s a reminder that turning to the right places for help can lead to better outcomes and a more fulfilling life.

15) Ezekiel 13:18-23

Thus says the Lord God: "Woe to the women who sew magic charms on their sleeves and make veils for the heads of people of every height to hunt souls! Will you hunt the souls of My people, and keep yourselves alive? And will you profane Me among My people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, killing people who should not die, and keeping people alive who should not live, by your lying to My people who listen to lies?" Therefore thus says the Lord God: "Behold, I am against your magic charms by which you hunt souls there like birds. I will tear them from your arms, and let the souls go, the souls you hunt like birds. I will also tear off your veils and deliver My people out of your hand, and they shall no longer be as prey in your hand. Then you shall know that I am the Lord. Because with lies you have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and you have strengthened the hands of the wicked, so that he does not turn from his wicked way to save his life. Therefore you shall no longer envision futility nor practice divination. For I will deliver My people out of your hand, and you shall know that I am the Lord."

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, it's comforting to remember that true guidance and protection come from a higher source, offering us a sense of peace and reassurance.

16) Jeremiah 27:9-10

Therefore do not listen to your prophets, your diviners, your dreamers, your soothsayers, or your sorcerers, who speak to you, saying, "You shall not serve the king of Babylon." For they prophesy a lie to you, to remove you far from your land; and I will drive you out, and you will perish.

Meaning: Trusting in false promises can lead us astray, but seeking truth brings us closer to genuine peace and fulfillment.

17) Zechariah 10:2

For the idols speak delusion; the diviners envision lies, and tell false dreams; they comfort in vain. Therefore the people wend their way like sheep; they are in trouble because there is no shepherd.

Meaning: In times of confusion and uncertainty, it's easy to be misled by false promises. True guidance and comfort come from a reliable and steadfast source, leading us to clarity and peace.

18) 2 Kings 17:17

And they caused their sons and daughters to pass through the fire, practiced witchcraft and soothsaying, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the Lord, to provoke Him to anger.

Meaning: In the midst of life's challenges, remember that turning to positive and uplifting sources can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful path.

19) 2 Kings 23:24

Moreover Josiah put away those who consulted mediums and spiritists, the household gods and idols, all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the Lord.

Meaning: Take a moment to consider the power of letting go of what holds you back. Embracing positive change can lead to a life aligned with higher values and true fulfillment.

20) Isaiah 19:3

The spirit of Egypt will fail in its midst; I will destroy their counsel, and they will consult the idols and the charmers, the mediums and the sorcerers.

Meaning: When we rely on unreliable sources, we often find ourselves lost and confused. True clarity comes from seeking wisdom from steadfast and trustworthy places.

10 Bible Verses on God's View on Spirit Mediums

21) Leviticus 20:27

Leviticus 20:27

A man or a woman who is a medium, or who has familiar spirits, shall surely be put to death; they shall stone them with stones. Their blood shall be upon them.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that staying true to your values can bring clarity and strength. Hold onto what you know is right, even when the path is tough.

22) Deuteronomy 18:14

For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.

Meaning: Sometimes, it's easy to forget that true guidance and wisdom come from a higher place, not from fleeting sources. Hold onto the assurance that you are guided by something greater.

23) 1 Samuel 15:23

For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.

Meaning: It's surprising how our everyday choices can shape our spiritual journey. Embracing humility and openness can lead to profound growth and renewal.

24) 2 Kings 23:5

Then he removed the idolatrous priests whom the kings of Judah had ordained to burn incense on the high places in the cities of Judah and in the places all around Jerusalem, and those who burned incense to Baal, to the sun, to the moon, to the constellations, and to all the host of heaven.

Meaning: God's commitment to purity and truth is unwavering. Even today, His call to remove distractions and false idols from our lives remains a powerful guide to living with integrity and purpose.

25) Isaiah 44:25

Who frustrates the signs of the babblers, and drives diviners mad; Who turns wise men backward, and makes their knowledge foolishness

Meaning: Ever wondered what happens when we rely on unreliable sources? Take a moment to seek wisdom from places that truly uplift and guide you.

26) Jeremiah 14:14

And the Lord said to me, "The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart.

Meaning: It's comforting to know that God's words are always true and reliable. Trusting in His guidance brings clarity and peace, even when others may lead us astray.

27) Ezekiel 21:21

For the king of Babylon stands at the parting of the road, at the fork of the two roads, to use divination: he shakes the arrows, he consults the images, he looks at the liver.

Meaning: In ancient times, leaders often relied on divination to make crucial decisions. This verse invites us to reconsider where we seek guidance, offering a fresh perspective on trusting divine wisdom over human methods.

28) Ezekiel 22:28

Her prophets plastered them with untempered mortar, seeing false visions, and divining lies for them, saying, 'Thus says the Lord God,' when the Lord had not spoken.

Meaning: In a world full of noise and deception, finding a voice of truth can be like a breath of fresh air. It's a reminder to seek out genuine guidance amidst the chaos.

29) Zechariah 13:2

It shall be in that day," says the Lord of hosts, "that I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, and they shall no longer be remembered. I will also cause the prophets and the unclean spirit to depart from the land.

Meaning: What if you could clear away all the distractions and falsehoods in your life? Embrace the possibility of living with clarity and truth, grounded in a higher purpose.

30) Acts 19:19

Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver.

Meaning: Ever thought about the freedom that comes from letting go of what holds you back? Embrace the courage to release what no longer serves you and step into a life filled with purpose and clarity.

10 Bible Verses on Protection from Evil Spirits

31) Ephesians 6:11-12

Ephesians 6:11-12

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Meaning: The word "armor" stands out, symbolizing protection and readiness. Just like wearing a seatbelt keeps you safe on the road, embracing spiritual armor shields you from unseen dangers.

32) James 4:7

Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, remember that God's love and grace are your anchor. Trusting in His power brings peace and assurance, knowing that you are never alone in your struggles.

33) 1 John 4:4

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

Meaning: There's a comforting assurance in knowing that divine strength within us surpasses any worldly challenge. While the world often promotes fear and self-reliance, this verse encourages us to trust in a higher power that brings true peace and victory.

34) 2 Thessalonians 3:3

But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.

Meaning: Ever felt like you needed a shield against life's challenges? Hold onto the assurance that divine protection is always with you, offering strength and security in every moment.

35) Psalm 91:11

For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.

Meaning: The certainty of divine protection is beautifully captured here. The poetic language paints a vivid picture of heavenly guardians watching over us, adding a layer of comfort and assurance to our daily lives.

36) 2 Timothy 1:7

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Meaning: In every season of life, this verse reminds us that we are equipped with strength, love, and clarity. Embrace the courage within you, knowing you are divinely empowered to face any challenge.

37) Romans 8:38-39

For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Meaning: In a world full of uncertainties, remember that nothing can come between you and divine love. Embrace this truth and let it guide you through life's challenges with unwavering faith.

38) Psalm 34:7

The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.

Meaning: Isn't it amazing to know that divine protection surrounds you? It's like a warm embrace, reminding you that you are never alone and always cared for.

39) 1 Peter 5:8-9

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

Meaning: God's unwavering presence offers strength and protection, inviting us to stand firm in our faith and trust in His enduring support.

40) Colossians 1:13

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse serves as a comforting reminder that there is a greater plan at work. It lifts our eyes beyond current struggles, offering hope and assurance of a brighter future.

10 Bible Verses on Repentance and Deliverance from Spirits

41) Acts 3:19

Acts 3:19

Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord

Meaning: Embracing the power of repentance can lead to a profound sense of renewal and hope. It's a reminder that no matter where you are, there's always a path to a fresh start and a brighter future.

42) 2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Meaning: In our journey through life, we often seek renewal and transformation. Embrace the idea that with faith, you can leave behind the past and step into a fresh, hopeful future.

43) 1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Meaning: There's a comforting assurance in knowing that forgiveness is always within reach. Trust in the unwavering reliability of God's promise to cleanse and renew you.

44) Matthew 12:43-45

When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're making progress, only to face even bigger challenges? It's a reminder to fill your life with positive, uplifting things to keep negativity at bay.

45) Mark 1:23-26

Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, saying, "Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!" But Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be quiet, and come out of him!" And when the unclean spirit had convulsed him and cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him.

Meaning: The power of faith can bring about profound change and freedom. Embrace the strength and authority that comes from trusting in divine intervention.

46) Luke 11:24-26

When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

Meaning: Faith acts as a stronghold against negativity. Embrace the security that comes from divine protection, knowing that God's presence fortifies your life against any spiritual challenges.

47) Romans 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Meaning: God's presence is a constant source of comfort and strength. Embrace the wisdom of this verse to shift your mindset, allowing divine guidance to shape your actions and decisions.

48) Ephesians 4:22-24

that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

Meaning: Embrace the joy of transformation and renewal, knowing that each day offers a fresh start filled with hope and purpose.

49) James 5:16

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

Meaning: Embrace the truth of this verse in your daily life by actively seeking to support and uplift those around you. Genuine love and faith are shown through our actions, and they have the power to bring healing and strength to our communities.

50) 1 Peter 2:24

who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that you are deeply loved and cared for. Embrace the healing and renewal that comes from this profound truth.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Familiar Spirits

Applying the Bible's teachings about familiar spirits to daily life is essential for spiritual growth and protection. These verses offer practical wisdom that can guide our actions and decisions.

  • Daily Prayer: Start your day with a prayer asking for guidance and protection from negative influences. This helps set a positive tone for the day.
  • Seek God’s Wisdom: When faced with decisions, turn to the Bible and prayer instead of other sources. This keeps you aligned with divine guidance.
  • Community Involvement: Join a faith-based group or community. Sharing experiences and learning together can strengthen your faith and provide support.
  • Mindful Media Consumption: Be cautious about the media you consume. Choose content that uplifts and aligns with your values.
  • Regular Bible Study: Set aside time each week to study the Bible. Reflect on verses about familiar spirits and how they apply to your life.

Remember, God’s presence is always with you, offering strength and guidance. Embrace these teachings and let your faith lead you to a more fulfilling life.

For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.

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