Deuteronomy 18:11 - Torah forbids occult practices?

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Hebrew Text

וְחֹבֵר חָבֶר וְשֹׁאֵל אוֹב וְיִדְּעֹנִי וְדֹרֵשׁ אֶל־הַמֵּתִים׃

English Translation

or a charmer, or a medium, or a wizard, or a necromancer.

Transliteration

Vechover chaver veshoel ov veyidoni vedoresh el-hametim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְחֹבֵ֖ר חָ֑בֶר וְשֹׁאֵ֥ל אוֹב֙ וְיִדְּעֹנִ֔י וְדֹרֵ֖שׁ אֶל־הַמֵּתִֽים׃

Parasha Commentary

Prohibition of Sorcery and Necromancy

The verse (Devarim 18:11) lists several forbidden occult practices: חובר חבר (a charmer), שואל אוב (a medium), ידעוני (a wizard), and דורש אל המתים (a necromancer). These are all forms of witchcraft or attempts to access supernatural knowledge through prohibited means, which the Torah strictly forbids.

Explanation of Terms

חובר חבר (A Charmer) - Rashi explains this refers to one who gathers snakes or scorpions together through incantations (Sanhedrin 65a). The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:10) states this includes anyone who performs acts that appear to suspend natural laws through spells.
שואל אוב (A Medium) - The Talmud (Sanhedrin 65b) describes this as someone who raises the dead through necromancy, specifically through the bone of a creature called "Yido'a." Rashi adds that the medium uses a ritual to make the deceased speak from their armpit.
ידעוני (A Wizard) - According to Ibn Ezra, this refers to one who places a bone of a known animal (ידוע) in their mouth to receive supposed divine messages. The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:16) explains it as a form of divination using objects.
דורש אל המתים (A Necromancer) - This refers to one who seeks to communicate with the dead, explicitly forbidden by the Torah (Vayikra 19:31). The Sifri (Devarim 18:11) emphasizes that such practices are an abomination.

Torah's Opposition to Occult Practices

The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 511) explains that these prohibitions exist because engaging in such practices denies divine providence and leads people to rely on false powers rather than Hashem. The Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:37) further states that these acts are deceptive and corrupt moral and intellectual integrity.

Contemporary Application

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (Igrot Moshe, Yoreh De'ah 2:53) rules that consulting psychics, fortune-tellers, or any form of divination violates these prohibitions. The Torah commands us to seek guidance through proper channels—Torah study, prayer, and consultation with righteous scholars—rather than through forbidden mystical means.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sanhedrin 65b

The verse is discussed in the context of laws regarding sorcery and necromancy, which are prohibited by the Torah.

📖 Chagigah 3b

The verse is referenced in a discussion about the severity of consulting mediums and necromancers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 18:11 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 18:11 lists forbidden occult practices according to Jewish law, including consulting mediums, wizards, or necromancers (those who claim to communicate with the dead). The Torah strictly prohibits these practices because they rely on supernatural forces outside of Hashem's will and can lead to idolatry or deception.

Q: Why does the Torah forbid consulting mediums or necromancers?
A: The Torah forbids these practices because they involve seeking knowledge or guidance from sources other than Hashem. The Rambam (Maimonides) explains that these practices are deceptive and can lead people away from true faith in G-d. Instead, we should seek wisdom through Torah study and prayer.

Q: Are psychics or fortune-tellers allowed in Judaism?
A: No, Judaism strictly prohibits consulting psychics, fortune-tellers, or anyone claiming supernatural powers outside of Torah-sanctioned prophecy (which ended long ago). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 65a) discusses these prohibitions, emphasizing that true guidance comes only from Torah and righteous rabbinic teachings.

Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: Even today, Orthodox Judaism forbids engaging with astrology, tarot cards, Ouija boards, or any form of necromancy. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 511) explains that such practices weaken emunah (faith) in Hashem. Instead, Jews are encouraged to seek answers through tefillah (prayer), Torah study, and consulting wise rabbis.

Q: What is the punishment for consulting a medium according to Jewish law?
A: The Torah prescribes severe consequences for engaging in these forbidden practices. According to the Mishnah (Sanhedrin 7:7), one who consults a medium or necromancer is liable for karet (spiritual excision) and, in ancient times when courts had full authority, could even face the death penalty. This shows how seriously Judaism views these prohibitions.