Catholic Public Domain Version
Leviticus 20:6
“The soul who will have turned aside to astrologers and soothsayers, and who will have fornicated with them, I will set my face against him, and I will destroy him from the midst of his people.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Leviticus 20:6.
Plain-language explanation
Leviticus 20:6 warns that God opposes someone who turns to astrologers and soothsayers for guidance, especially when that seeking is tied to sinful behavior (the verse mentions “fornicated” in connection with that practice). God says He will act against such a person and remove them from the community.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read this as a call to keep our trust in God, not in occult or divination practices. The Church generally teaches that Christians should seek wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and legitimate human counsel—not through astrology/soothsaying as a way to control the future or uncover hidden things apart from God. This verse is also about the seriousness of choosing practices that pull one’s heart away from God.
Historical background
In ancient Israel, surrounding cultures used divination and the interpretation of signs to make decisions and claim spiritual power. God set Israel apart as a people who would rely on His covenant guidance rather than on pagan religious practices. Leviticus uses strong language to underline that spiritual loyalty affected the whole community.
Reflection
This verse isn’t mainly focused on “curiosity” but on turning aside—choosing something that competes with faith in God. It invites an honest question: Where do I look for certainty—God’s guidance, or methods that treat the spiritual realm as something to manipulate?
Practical takeaway
If you feel drawn to astrology or fortune-telling, pause and ask what need you’re trying to meet (anxiety, desire for control, uncertainty). Replace it with faith practices: pray, seek counsel from trustworthy people, and use Scripture or wise planning. Avoid sources that encourage you to treat the future as something you can guarantee through divination.
Prayer
Lord God, help me to trust You with my life. Deliver me from turning away to practices that replace Your guidance. Give me courage to seek Your will through prayer and the light of Your Word. Purify my heart and strengthen my faith, so I may stay close to You. Amen.