from a derivative of μαίνομαι (meaning a prophet, as supposed to rave through inspiration); to divine, i.e. utter spells (under pretense of foretelling:--by soothsaying.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **manteúomai**, represented by `{{G3132}}`, means **to divine** or utter spells. It is derived from a word related to raving as if inspired, and its biblical usage is translated as **soothsaying**. According to usage statistics, it is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G3132}}` is in the narrative of [[Acts 16:16]]. The verse describes "a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination" who "brought her masters much gain by **soothsaying**." In this context, the act of **soothsaying** is presented as a financially profitable enterprise for the girl's masters, performed through the influence of a spirit.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G3132}}` is clarified by words used alongside it in its only context:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): This word can refer to a wide range of spiritual beings or influences, from the Holy **Spirit** [[Galatians 5:22]] to the human **spirit** [[Hebrews 4:12]]. In [[Acts 16:16]], it specifies the source of the soothsaying as a **spirit** of divination.
* `{{G4436}}` **Pýthōn** (divination): Named after the region of the famous oracle, this word is used for **divination** or inspiration. Its use in [[Acts 16:16]] directly qualifies the type of spirit influencing the damsel, linking her soothsaying to a source of false prophecy.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3132}}` is primarily understood by its contrast with divine truth and power.
* **A Counterfeit Source:** The act of soothsaying is explicitly linked not to God, but to "a spirit `{{G4151}}` of divination `{{G4436}}`" [[Acts 16:16]]. This establishes it as a form of false spiritual activity.
* **Worldly Motivation:** The primary outcome of the **soothsaying** described in scripture was not spiritual guidance but to bring "her masters much gain" [[Acts 16:16]], highlighting its corrupt, commercial nature.
* **Contrast with the Holy Spirit:** This stands in stark opposition to the work of the Holy **Ghost** `{{G4151}}`, which gives power to be witnesses [[Acts 1:8]] and anoints individuals to "preach the gospel to the poor" [[Luke 4:18]], rather than for financial profit.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3132}}` is a specific and narrowly used term for **soothsaying**. Its single biblical appearance in [[Acts 16:16]] frames it as an action powered by a spirit of divination, not by God, and performed for financial exploitation. By contrasting this activity with the work of the Holy Spirit detailed elsewhere, the term `{{G3132}}` serves to define a category of false prophecy that is spiritually illegitimate and motivated by worldly gain.
TRV