### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun μαγεία (mageía, `{{G3095}}`) refers to the practice of magic, sorcery, or enchantment. It derives from the verb μαγεύω (mageuō), meaning "to practice magic," which in turn is related to μάγος (magos, `{{G3097}}`), signifying a magus, sorcerer, or wise man. In its biblical context, especially in the New Testament, μαγεία consistently carries a negative connotation, denoting illicit attempts to manipulate spiritual forces, divine powers, or natural phenomena through means not sanctioned by God. It implies an engagement with hidden knowledge or supernatural influence outside of divine revelation and legitimate spiritual authority. Its semantic range thus encompasses occult practices, divination, and the use of charms or spells, often for personal gain or deception, and stands in stark contrast to the genuine power and miracles of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term μαγεία (mageía, `{{G3095}}`) appears only once in the New Testament:
* **[[Acts 8:11]]**: "And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his sorceries (μαγεία)."
* This verse refers to Simon, commonly known as Simon Magus. Prior to the arrival of Philip, Simon had captivated the people of Samaria with his "sorceries." The use of μαγεία here clearly indicates a practice that was deceptive, manipulative, and ultimately not from God. The people were so impressed that they declared him to be "the Power of God that is called Great" ([[Acts 8:10]]). However, upon witnessing the authentic signs and wonders performed by Philip through the Holy Spirit, Simon himself believed and was baptized. His subsequent attempt to purchase the ability to impart the Holy Spirit ([[Acts 8:18-19]]) further underscores his misunderstanding of divine power and the illicit, transactional nature of his previous "sorcery." The narrative in Acts 8 serves as a vivid contrast between the deceptive, human-initiated practices of μαγεία and the genuine, God-ordained power of the Holy Spirit.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several terms and concepts in the biblical lexicon are closely related to or stand in opposition to μαγεία (mageía, `{{G3095}}`):
* **Cognates:**
* μαγεύω (mageuō): The verb form, "to practice magic," from which μαγεία is derived.
* μάγος (magos, `{{G3097}}`): "magus," "sorcerer," or "wise man." This term is used both for the wise men who visited the infant Jesus ([[Matthew 2:1]]) and for Simon Magus ([[Acts 8:9]]), demonstrating that context is crucial for its interpretation. In the latter instance, it clearly signifies one who practices sorcery.
* **Synonyms/Related Practices (often condemned):**
* φαρμακεία (pharmakeia, `{{G5331}}`): "sorcery," "witchcraft," often implying the use of drugs, potions, or enchantments. This term is listed among the "works of the flesh" in [[Galatians 5:20]] and is associated with those who do not repent in [[Revelation 9:21]] and [[Revelation 18:23]].
* γοητεία (goēteia): While not a Strong's number, this classical Greek term denotes "charming," "deception," or "trickery," often associated with charlatans and sorcerers.
* Divination: Various Hebrew terms in the Old Testament, such as קֶסֶם (qesem, `{{H7081}}`), refer to divination, fortune-telling, or augury, all of which are strongly prohibited ([[Deuteronomy 18:10-12]]).
* Necromancy, spiritism, enchantment, and all forms of occult practices are consistently condemned throughout Scripture.
* **Antithetical Concepts:**
* The power of God, divine miracles, and prophecy through the Holy Spirit. These are distinct from μαγεία in their source, purpose, and effect.
* True wisdom (σοφία, sophia, `{{G4678}}`) which comes from God, contrasted with the deceptive knowledge offered by magic.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μαγεία (mageía, `{{G3095}}`) is profound, highlighting several key biblical themes:
* **Condemnation of Illicit Power:** The New Testament, consistent with the Old Testament, unequivocally condemns all forms of "mageía." It is viewed as an attempt to access or manipulate spiritual power outside of God's revealed will and established order. Such practices are seen as an affront to God's sovereignty and a deviation from true worship.
* **Source of Power:** The core issue with "mageía" is its source. While genuine biblical power originates solely from God, "mageía" draws its efficacy from various illicit sources, including demonic influence, human deception, or a misunderstanding of natural forces. The narrative of Simon Magus starkly contrasts his deceptive "mageía" with the authentic, transformative power of God manifested through the apostles.
* **Spiritual Deception and Idolatry:** Practices of "mageía" are inherently linked to spiritual deception. They lead individuals away from faith in the one true God and reliance on His divine provision. Fundamentally, "mageía" can be understood as a form of idolatry, as it seeks power, knowledge, or control from sources other than the Creator, or attempts to coerce spiritual realities through human means rather than submitting to divine will.
* **Distinction from Divine Miracles:** It is crucial to distinguish "mageía" from genuine biblical miracles. Miracles are acts of God, performed by Him directly or through His chosen instruments (prophets, apostles, Jesus Christ), for His glory, to validate His message, and to demonstrate His kingdom's arrival. They are expressions of divine love, power, and justice. "Mageía," conversely, is human-initiated, often for selfish gain, and originates from illicit spiritual sources, leading to spiritual bondage rather than liberation.
### Summary
The Greek word μαγεία (mageía, `{{G3095}}`) denotes the practice of magic or sorcery, a concept consistently and strongly condemned throughout the New Testament. Its singular occurrence in [[Acts 8:11]], in relation to Simon Magus, serves as a critical illustration of its deceptive and ungodly nature, contrasting sharply with the genuine, divine power manifested by the apostles. Theologically, μαγεία underscores the biblical prohibition against seeking power or knowledge through means outside of God's revealed will, positioning such practices as spiritual deception, a form of idolatry, and an antithesis to true faith. It highlights the clear distinction between human attempts to manipulate spiritual forces and the sovereign, righteous power of God, reminding believers to rely solely on God's grace and truth.
TRV