In the Bible, a medium refers to a person who claims to communicate with the dead or spirits, acting as an intermediary between humans and the spiritual realm.

• The Hebrew word often used is אוֹב (’ōb), which can mean a spirit of the dead, ghost, or the person who channels them (a necromancer).

• Sometimes translated as "spiritist," "necromancer," "wizard," or "diviner."

Biblical references and God's stance

The Bible strongly condemns consulting mediums or spiritists.

Key passages:

✅ Leviticus 19:31

"Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God."

✅ Leviticus 20:6

"I will set my face against anyone who turns to mediums and spiritists to prostitute themselves by following them, and I will cut them off from their people."

✅ Deuteronomy 18:10-12

"Let no one be found among you who... practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD."

✅ 1 Samuel 28 (the story of Saul and the medium at Endor)
King Saul consulted a medium to call up the spirit of Samuel when God had stopped speaking to him — this act was condemned and seen as a turning away from God.

Why does God forbid it?

• It leads people away from depending on God.

• It involves demonic deception — these spirits are not truly the dead but deceptive spirits (2 Corinthians 11:14 warns that even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light).

• It opens doors to spiritual danger and bondage.

Modern application

Today, activities like séances, Ouija boards, consulting psychics, or so-called "Christian" mediums fall under this warning. The Bible encourages believers to seek God directly rather than trying to gain secret or hidden knowledge through occult means.

Summary

✔ A medium in the Bible is someone who tries to communicate with spirits or the dead.
✔ God forbids this practice as spiritually dangerous and an act of unfaithfulness.
✔ Believers are called to seek God’s guidance through prayer and His word, not through forbidden spiritual practices.