### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb μαγεύω (mageúō, `{{G3096}}`) is derived from the noun μάγος (magos, `{{G3097}}`). While μάγος originally referred to a member of the ancient Persian priestly caste, often associated with wisdom, astrology, and the interpretation of dreams (as seen in the "Magi" who visited the infant Jesus in [[Matthew 2:1]]), the verb μαγεύω and the noun in later Hellenistic usage acquired a distinctly negative connotation. It came to signify the practice of illicit magic, sorcery, enchantment, and the occult arts. This includes divination, necromancy, and other forms of spiritual manipulation or communication with non-divine entities, often involving deceptive practices. The base definition "to practice magic" or "use sorcery" precisely captures this pejorative sense, denoting an engagement in forbidden supernatural activities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb μαγεύω (mageúō, `{{G3096}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 8:9]]**: "But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great."
* In this pivotal passage, μαγεύω describes the actions of Simon, later known as Simon Magus. Prior to the arrival of Philip, Simon had captivated the Samaritan populace through his sorcery, leading them to believe he possessed great power. The use of μαγεύω here highlights the deceptive and manipulative nature of his activities, contrasting sharply with the genuine, Spirit-empowered miracles performed by Philip. Simon's "magic" was a counterfeit, designed to elevate himself, whereas Philip's signs pointed to the power of God. The subsequent narrative in Acts 8 further emphasizes this distinction, as Simon attempts to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit, revealing his fundamental misunderstanding of divine grace and authority. This singular occurrence firmly establishes μαγεύω within the biblical narrative as a practice antithetical to the work of God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of μαγεύω (mageúō, `{{G3096}}`) includes several related terms that underscore its negative connotations concerning illicit spiritual practices:
* μάγος (magos, `{{G3097}}`): The noun from which μαγεύω is derived, referring to the "magician" or "sorcerer" himself, as seen with Simon in [[Acts 8:9]], [[Acts 8:11]], and Elymas in [[Acts 13:6]], [[Acts 13:8]]. While the Magi in Matthew are presented differently, the term evolved to denote practitioners of forbidden arts.
* μαγεία (mageia, `{{G3095}}`): The noun for "magic" or "sorcery" itself, used in [[Acts 8:11]] to describe the "sorceries" by which Simon had astonished the people.
* φαρμακεία (pharmakeia, `{{G5331}}`): Often translated as "sorcery" or "witchcraft," particularly in contexts where potions or drugs might be involved. It is listed among the "works of the flesh" in [[Galatians 5:20]] and associated with the nations' deception in [[Revelation 9:21]], [[Revelation 18:23]].
* Old Testament parallels: The Mosaic Law rigorously condemned various forms of divination, sorcery, and necromancy. Terms like `{{H3784}}` (kashaph, "to practice sorcery") and `{{H7080}}` (qasam, "to practice divination") are used in passages such as [[Deuteronomy 18:10-12]], [[Leviticus 19:26]], and [[Leviticus 19:31]], demonstrating a consistent divine prohibition against such practices throughout Scripture. These practices are consistently presented as abominations to the Lord.
### Theological Significance
The practice of μαγεύω (mageúō, `{{G3096}}`) carries profound theological significance, representing a direct challenge to God's sovereignty and a manifestation of spiritual rebellion:
* **Usurpation of Divine Authority**: μαγεύω involves an attempt to manipulate spiritual forces or gain knowledge and power outside of God's revealed will and established order. It represents a human effort to control the supernatural, thereby usurping the unique prerogative of God as the sole source of true power and wisdom.
* **Deception and Falsehood**: Sorcery, by its nature, is often characterized by deception. As seen with Simon Magus, it aims to impress and mislead people, presenting a counterfeit manifestation of power that is not from God. It obscures the truth and diverts attention from genuine divine activity.
* **Demonic Influence**: While not always explicitly stated, practices of μαγεύω are implicitly or explicitly linked to demonic powers or spirits that oppose God. In [[Acts 13:6-12]], Elymas the sorcerer is called a "son of the devil" by Paul, highlighting the malevolent spiritual source behind such activities.
* **Rejection of God's Kingdom**: Throughout Scripture, sorcery and related occult practices are consistently condemned as works of darkness. They are listed among the vices that exclude individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God ([[Galatians 5:20]], [[Revelation 21:8]], [[Revelation 22:15]]). Engagement in μαγεύω signifies a turning away from God's light and embracing spiritual darkness.
* **Contrast with True Spiritual Power**: The New Testament vividly contrasts the empty, deceptive power of μαγεύω with the authentic, life-transforming power of the Holy Spirit. While sorcery seeks self-exaltation and material gain, the Spirit's power is manifested in signs that glorify God, lead to repentance, and build up the Body of Christ.
### Summary
The Greek verb μαγεύω (mageúō, `{{G3096}}`) denotes the practice of illicit magic or sorcery, a term that evolved to signify deceptive and forbidden supernatural arts. Its singular occurrence in [[Acts 8:9]] vividly illustrates its nature through Simon the sorcerer, who used it to deceive and impress the people of Samaria, contrasting sharply with the genuine power of the Holy Spirit. μαγεύω stands in direct opposition to God's sovereignty, representing an attempt to manipulate spiritual forces outside of divine will. It is consistently condemned in Scripture as a work of darkness, often associated with demonic influence, and is listed among the practices that separate individuals from God's kingdom. The study of μαγεύω underscores the biblical emphasis on discerning between true divine power and counterfeit spiritual manifestations.
TRV