Bible Dictionary
Wizard
A wizard was one who claimed secret or supernatural knowledge, especially through forbidden spiritual practices. Israel was warned not to consult wizards or familiar spirits, because such practices opposed trust in the Lord.
Definition
A wizard is a person who claims secret or supernatural knowledge and power, described in the supplied material as a “knowing one.” The term refers to a pretender or practitioner of forbidden spiritual knowledge rather than to ordinary learning or wisdom.
Biblical Usage
Israel was forbidden to consult or tolerate wizards and familiar spirits. The practice is mentioned in connection with the prohibitions and judgments recorded in Leviticus, 1 Samuel, and Isaiah.
Historical Background
The source material connects wizardry with the broader biblical subjects of astrology, divination, magic, witchcraft, and familiar spirits.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A pretender to supernatural knowledge and power, “a knowing one,” as the original Hebrew word signifies. Such an one was forbidden on pain of death to practise his deceptions (Lev. 19:31; 20:6, 27; 1 Sam. 28:3; Isa. 8:19; 19:3).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
[Divination; Magic, Magicians]
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>wiz'-ard.</p><p>See ASTROLOGY, 1; DIVINATION; FAMILIAR; MAGIC; WITCH, WITCHCRAFT.</p>