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.
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.
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.
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.
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