Hypnosis

Dear Victorious,

Is there any place in the Bible that addresses hypnosis? I mean, is it Biblical or okay for Christians?

David E. - Oshkosh, WI

Dear David,

I'm not aware of any place in the Bible that specifically references hypnosis by name. However --- the Bible is very clear about a broad category that I believe would include hypnosis. The definition of hypnosis is an artificially induced and altered condition and control of the mind. So it is the turning of one's mind over to another medium. It could include a loss of consciousness and a manipulation of one's mind and thinking. This is not Biblical.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says, "Let no one be found among you ... who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord ..." This scripture reference is broad enough to include the practice of hypnosis. Similar scripture references like this can be found in Leviticus 19 & 20, Exodus 22 and Isaiah 8.

Frankly, I think this makes it pretty clear. Hypnosis is ungodly and should not be entertained by Christ-followers.