| | Definition: | | (1.) The rendering of Hebrew _latim_ or _lehatim_, which means "something covered," "muffled up;" secret arts, tricks (Ex. 7:11, 22; 8:7, 18), by which the Egyptian magicians imposed on the credulity of Pharaoh. (2.) The rendering of the Hebrew _keshaphim_, "muttered spells" or "incantations," rendered "sorceries" in Isa. 47:9, 12, i.e., the using of certain formulae under the belief that men could thus be bound. (3.) Hebrew _lehashim_, "charming," as of serpents (Jer. 8:17; comp. Ps. 58:5). (4.) Hebrew _nehashim_, the enchantments or omens used by Balaam (Num. 24:1); his endeavouring to gain omens favourable to his design. (5.) Hebrew _heber_ (Isa. 47:9, 12), "magical spells." All kinds of enchantments were condemned by the Mosaic law (Lev. 19:26; Deut. 18:10-12). (See DIVINATION.) |
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