Isaiah 8:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 8:19
19 And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 8 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, discipleship, faith. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 8:19
19 And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
Analysis
This verse exposes the temptation to seek spiritist guidance rather than God's word. 'Familiar spirits' (mediums) and 'wizards' (spiritists) were common in pagan religions but forbidden in Israel (Leviticus 19:31; Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Their 'peeping and muttering' describes the eerie whispers and incantations of occult practices. The rhetorical question exposes the absurdity: why consult the dead concerning the living? This illustrates how crisis drives people to forbidden sources rather than God. The Reformed position clearly condemns all occultism as rebellion against God's revealed will.
Historical Context
Spiritism was prevalent in ancient Near Eastern cultures, particularly during crises. King Saul infamously consulted the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28). During the Assyrian crisis, many Israelites likely turned to mediums for guidance. This practice persisted, reaching a climax under Manasseh (2 Kings 21:6). Isaiah denounces this apostasy, calling people back to God's word. Modern equivalents include astrology, psychics, and New Age practices—all attempts to gain knowledge apart from divine revelation.
Reflection
- What modern forms of spiritism or occultism tempt people to seek guidance apart from God's word?
- Why does crisis often drive people toward forbidden spiritual practices rather than toward God?
- How do we guard against subtle forms of seeking supernatural knowledge outside biblical revelation?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- References God: Jeremiah 10:10
- Spirit: Isaiah 19:3, 29:4, Leviticus 19:31, 20:6, Deuteronomy 18:11, 2 Kings 21:6
- Parallel theme: Psalms 106:28