Book of exodus

[Iti oj]

mostly asking at bible litteralists and such
does this book acknowledge magic
why or why not?
What was the source of the Egyptian priest/magicians power?

 

[james2ko]

mostly asking at bible litteralists and such does this book acknowledge magic why or why not? What was the source of the Egyptian priest/magicians power?

Pharoah's magicians were of the David Copperfield type and/or they were assisted by demonic forces.

 

[Bob Dixon]

Pharoah's magicians were of the David Copperfield type and/or they were assisted by demonic forces.

But, of course, "David Copperfield type" makes more sense, especially to our dear question-asker.

 

[james2ko]

But, of course, "David Copperfield type" makes more sense, especially to our dear question-asker.

Here are the first two results after googling his name:

 

[Doulos]

mostly asking at bible litteralists and such
does this book acknowledge magic
why or why not?
What was the source of the Egyptian priest/magicians power?

I'd say the whole Bible acknowledges magic. It also continually warns against it. If you want a more detailed answer, let me know as I'm running out the door now

 

[Iti oj]

I'd say the whole Bible acknowledges magic. It also continually warns against it. If you want a more detailed answer, let me know as I'm running out the door now

I love to hear more when you get the chance

 

[Doulos]

I love to hear more when you get the chance

Let me first give my understanding of magic vs miracle.

Magic (left side)- Miracle (right side)
tries to control our surroundings - trusts in God
appeals to spirits or other powers - appeals to God
governed by ritual and knowledge - asked of God
often glorifies the 'user' - glorifies God


The essential point against magic from a Biblical standpoint is that it demonstrates lack of trust in God, and appeals to powers other than God.

Some quick examples of magic in the Bible:
1 Samuel 28 - Saul is afraid, and God does not answer him, so he goes to a witch who summons the prophet Samuel (which in essence demonstrates WHY God turned away from Saul). This shows that magic 'works' in the Bible, yet also shows that it is an example of not trusting God.

Acts 19:1-22 - the 7 sons of Sceva try to follow the words and actions of Paul when he casts out demons (thus assuming it was magical). The result is that the spirit attack them because they have no power.

Exodus 8:6-7 - So Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt, and the frogs came up and covered the land. But the magicians did the same things by their secret arts; they also made frogs come up on the land of Egypt. - Reflects part of the nature of magic in ritual and it's relationship to the idea that there is secret knowledge. Also clearly shows the Bible achnowledges that magic has a form of power.

Exodus 7:8-13 - Moses's snake eats the two snakes summoned by the Egyptian magicians... God's power is much greater than any magic.

Other applicable passages:
Numbers 22-24 - Balaam son of Beor is a pagan who God still speaks through, but this passage demonstrates the difference between magic and God. Balaam cannot do what God does not desire him to, and he does not control God... he can only ask.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, 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, and because of these detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you.

Even in fighting evil, the Bible never advises learning about evil, but rather to:
...be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
(Romans 16:15b-16)


(The following is my experience and understanding )
Ultimately the power of magic is a lie. It promises power to the user, and delivers small amounts at initial stages. The end result is subtle entrapment to the powers that you think you control.