What does Leviticus 20:27 mean?
"¶ A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them." - Leviticus 20:27

Leviticus 20:27 (KJV) states, "A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them."
This verse is a direct commandment from God to the Israelites, given to Moses on Mount Sinai, to deal with those who practice witchcraft or sorcery. Here, God is specifically addressing individuals who seek guidance or empowerment from evil spirits or demonic forces, rather than turning to Him for guidance and protection. The consequences for engaging in such practices are severe, as those who possess a familiar spirit or practice wizardry are to be put to death by stoning.
The themes of Leviticus 20:27 are centered around the purity and holiness of the Israelite community, as well as their absolute faith and trust in God as their sole source of guidance and protection. The verse serves as a reminder for the Israelites to remain set apart from the surrounding pagan cultures and to avoid any form of idolatry or occult practices. It also emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments, regardless of the cultural or societal norms of the time.
The context of this verse is important to understand, as it falls within the laws and regulations given to the Israelites by God, in order to maintain their covenant relationship with Him. Leviticus is specifically known for its detailed instructions regarding ritual purity, dietary laws, and moral conduct. This verse falls under the broader category of laws intended to keep the Israelites separate and distinct from the neighboring pagan nations. By prohibiting the practice of witchcraft and sorcery, God is protecting His people from the spiritual dangers and moral corruption associated with such practices.
The symbolism in Leviticus 20:27 can be seen in the severe consequences for engaging in occult activities. By requiring the death penalty for those who practice witchcraft or wizardry, God is emphasizing the seriousness of turning away from Him and seeking supernatural power from sources other than Himself. This symbolizes the importance of complete trust and reliance on God, as well as the inherent dangers of delving into the spiritual realm without His guidance and protection.
This verse also serves as a foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus Christ, who would ultimately conquer the forces of darkness and provide the ultimate protection and guidance for God's people. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus offered a way for humanity to be reconciled with God and receive His Holy Spirit for empowerment and guidance. The death penalty for practicing witchcraft and wizardry in the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in the spiritual victory won by Christ on the cross, providing a way for believers to be set free from the bondage of dark spiritual forces.
In conclusion, Leviticus 20:27 highlights the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and reliance on God alone for guidance and protection. It serves as a stern warning against turning to supernatural powers outside of God's provision, and emphasizes the consequences of engaging in occult practices. While the cultural context may be significantly different today, the underlying message of trusting in God and adhering to His moral standards remains relevant for believers in every generation.
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Leviticus 20:27 Artwork
"¶ A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon them." - Leviticus 20:27
Leviticus 27:20 - "And if he will not redeem the field, or if he have sold the field to another man, it shall not be redeemed any more."
Leviticus 27
Leviticus 27
Leviticus 27
"And if he will not redeem the field, or if he have sold the field to another man, it shall not be redeemed any more." - Leviticus 27:20
Leviticus 27:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Leviticus 23:20
Leviticus 27:4 - "And if it be a female, then thy estimation shall be thirty shekels."
Leviticus 24:20-23
Exodus 27:20
Exodus 27:20
Leviticus 27:27 - "And if it be of an unclean beast, then he shall redeem it according to thine estimation, and shall add a fifth part of it thereto: or if it be not redeemed, then it shall be sold according to thy estimation."
John 20:27
Exodus 27:20
John 20:27
Leviticus 20:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Leviticus 10:20 - "And when Moses heard that, he was content."
Leviticus 26:27 - "And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, but walk contrary unto me;"
Leviticus 27:34 - "These are the commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses for the children of Israel in mount Sinai."
Exodus 27:19-20
Leviticus 27:25 - "And all thy estimations shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary: twenty gerahs shall be the shekel."
Leviticus 20:22-26 simple picture
Picture to summarize Leviticus 20:22-26
Leviticus 27:13 - "But if he will at all redeem it, then he shall add a fifth part thereof unto thy estimation."
Leviticus 27:30 - "And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it is holy unto the LORD."
Leviticus 27:17 - "If he sanctify his field from the year of jubile, according to thy estimation it shall stand."
Leviticus 18:27 - "(For all these abominations have the men of the land done, which were before you, and the land is defiled;)"
"And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying," - Leviticus 27:1
1 Samuel 20:27-29