Description. Divination
is the attempt to predict or control one’s future, or to gain access
to hidden information (e.g., psychically) by the assessment of various
"indicators" (such as the occult meaning of numbers), or use of
particular implements (such as the Ouija board). Examples of
divinatory methods include interpreting the positions of the heavenly
bodies (astrology) or the symbols on cards (tarot), analyzing dreams
(dream work) or the flight of birds or liver markings, casting stones
or coins or other objects (I Ching), interpreting hand markings
(palmistry), and seeking information from dowsing rods, idols, or
oracles (Ezekiel 21:21). Occult games are not necessarily divinatory;
however, they attempt to introduce players to occult philosophy or
practice in a fun and exciting manner through playing a "game."
Founder. Varies; some
are unknown.
Scientific evaluation.
Science cannot evaluate claims to see into the future, although it can
test the predictions of diviners. This often reveals fraud or a poor
record of divining, or that psychic powers fluctuate greatly under
stringent conditions of scientific assessment. This is not to say that
these methods are never accurate; to the contrary, their
persuasiveness is often found in their divinatory power.
Examples of occult
potential. Psychic development, spiritism.
Major problem. Despite
their frequent use as forms of social entertainment, divination
practices involve serious occult pursuits that carry the same
consequences as occult practices in general.
Biblical/Christian
evaluation. Divination is rejected by name (Deuteronomy 18:9-12)
as an involvement with spiritistic powers (Hosea 4:12; Acts 16:16-19).
In certain ways, pagan divination is the occult counterpart to
biblical divination or prophecy.
Potential dangers.
Physical, emotional, or financial problems resulting from failed
predictions, incorrect medical diagnoses, abuse in psychotherapy,
occult bondage. Practitioners are characteristically warned to treat
these implements with great respect and deference, lest the powers
operating behind them be offended and the practitioner be harmed or
perhaps even killed.
