Wise men are mentioned in the Torah, Tenach and the Brit Chadashah. (Old and New Testaments.)
What is meant by wise men?
Were they simply very knowledgeable individuals or something else?
The two scriptures that may be most familiar to us are in Exodus 7:11-12 and Daniel, chapters 2,4 &5. Also in Matthew 2 and Luke 2:1-19. Proverbs speaks much of wisdom but is that the same thing?
The wisdom of Proverbs comes from the Fathers Holy Spirit so it is definitely not the same thing.
In the first instance in Exodus 7:11Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: 12 Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs.
We may have a tendency to put all these occult, witchcraft and mystical practices into the same category. Exodus 22:18 tells us
Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.
Sorcerers and witches are not the same thing. Exodus 22:18 uses the English word witch but its really the word kashaph or sorcerer.
Strongs #3784 mə·ḵaš·šê·p̄āh
Exodus 22:18 HEB: מְכַשֵּׁפָ֖ה לֹ֥א תְחַיֶּֽה׃ NAS: You shall not allow a sorceress to live. KJV: Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.
The Bible condemns magicians enchanters mediums astrologers witches wizards and sorcerers. Yet todays societies are replete with many forms of these condemned practices, modern entertainment has openly embraced them, causing many Christians to think it is acceptable and willingly become enchanted by the subtleties of the satanic realms. These are all different practices that the Bible calls abominations because they all involve the sprit world specifically evil or demonic spirits.
1 Samuel 15:23: “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” Rebellion and Stubbornness: These terms refer to a deliberate refusal to obey God’s commands, a hardening of the heart against His will.
But Pharaoh פַּרְעֹ֔ה (par·‘ōh) Noun – proper – masculine singular Strong’s 6547: Pharaoh — a title of Egypt kings
called וַיִּקְרָא֙ (way·yiq·rā) Conjunctive waw | Verb – Qal – Consecutive imperfect – third person masculine singular Strong’s 7121: To call, proclaim, read
the wise men לַֽחֲכָמִ֖ים (la·ḥă·ḵā·mîm) Preposition-l, Article | Adjective – masculine plural Strong’s 2450: Wise
and sorcerers וְלַֽמְכַשְּׁפִ֑ים (wə·lam·ḵaš·šə·p̄îm) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l, Article | Verb – Piel – Participle – masculine plural Strong’s 3784: To whisper a, spell, to inchant, practise magic
and magicians חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י (ḥar·ṭum·mê) Noun – masculine plural construct Strong’s 2748: n engraver, writer of Egypt, מִצְרַ֛יִם (miṣ·ra·yim) Noun – proper – feminine singular Strong’s 4714:
Egypt — a son of Ham, also his descendants
and their country in Northwest Africa
and they הֵ֜ם (hêm) Pronoun – third person masculine plural Strong’s 1992:
They also גַּם־ (gam-) Conjunction Strong’s 1571: Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and
did וַיַּֽעֲשׂ֨וּ (way·ya·‘ă·śū) Conjunctive waw | Verb – Qal – Consecutive imperfect – third person masculine plural Strong’s 6213: To do, make
the same things כֵּֽן׃ (kên) Adverb Strong’s 3651: So — thus
by their magic arts. בְּלַהֲטֵיהֶ֖ם (bə·la·hă·ṭê·hem) Preposition-b | Noun – masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural Strong’s 3858: A blaze, magic
We can clearly see the Hebrew words
the wise men לַֽחֲכָמִ֖ים (la·ḥă·ḵā·mîm)
Strong’s 2450: Wise
and sorcerers וְלַֽמְכַשְּׁפִ֑ים (wə·lam·ḵaš·šə·p̄îm)
Strong’s 3784: To whisper a, spell, to inchant, practise magic
and magicians חַרְטֻמֵּ֥י (ḥar·ṭum·mê)
Strong’s 2748: An engraver, writer
by their magic arts. בְּלַהֲטֵיהֶ֖ם (bə·la·hă·ṭê·hem)
Strong’s 3858: A blaze, magic
All the Hebrew words for these practices have English equivalents which are very close to the original. The only one that doesn’t is kashaph in Hebrew which we translate as sorcerer. The sorcerers were the scientists of their day! We are often told by the media to trust the science! The word sorcery in the dictionary tells us it’s the art and practice of casting spells on people or things, often called black magic or witchery. White witchcraft is still witchcraft. This is our modern definition of kashaph or sorcery but this is not a very well defined meaning and does not explain what it is. Sorcerers changed things so they took on a new appearance and the middle eastern origin of the word has the idea of deception through the change in appearance or image. Exodus 7 is a classic example of the work of a sorcerer. The magicians worked together with the sorcerers they were the front men and the sorcerers worked behind the scenes. It was really the enchantments of the sorcerers who changed the rod into snakes.
The Egyptian “magicians” of this time were jugglers of a high class, well skilled in serpent-charming and other similar arts, but not always possessed of any supernatural powers. The magicians of Egypt did in like manner with their enchantments. The magicians, aware of the wonder which would probably be wrought, had prepared themselves; they had brought serpents, charmed and stiffened so as to look like rods (a common trick in Egypt: ‘Description de l’Egypte,’ vol. 1. p. 159) in their hands; and when Aaron’s rod became a serpent, they threw their stiffened snakes upon the ground, and disenchanted them, so that they were seen to be what they were – shakos, and not really rods.
The Greek word for Sorcerer is pharmakeia
and where our word pharmacy has its origin.
Original Word: φαρμακεία Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: pharmakeia Pronunciation: far-mak-I-ah Phonetic Spelling: (far-mak-i’-ah) KJV: sorcery, witchcraft NASB: sorcery, sorceries Word Origin: [from G5332 (φαρμακεύς – Sorcerer)] sorcery, witchcraft.
From pharmakeus; medication (“pharmacy”), i.e. (by extension) magic (literally or figuratively) — sorcery, witchcraft. the use of medicine, drugs or spells
5331 pharmakeía (from pharmakeuō, “administer drugs”) – properly, drug-related sorcery, like the practice of magical-arts,
Strong’s Greek 5331 denotes the practice of manipulating human life or circumstances through potions, drugs, or magical arts that invoke supernatural influence apart from the living God. In Scripture it is consistently grouped with sins that fracture covenant fidelity, whether toward God (idolatry) or neighbor (hatred, jealousy, murder). While the modern term “pharmacy” descends from the same root, the biblical concern is not legitimate medicine but the use of substances or rituals to gain illicit spiritual power or to deceive.
the use of drugs, potions, and enchantments
2. poisoning (“pharmacy”)
3. (by extension) the occult, witchcraft
4. (by implication) the remedy, the cure
{literally or figuratively}
Pharmakeia is a Greek word that primarily means the use or administering of drugs, but it is also associated with sorcery and witchcraft in biblical contexts. It appears in the New Testament, notably in Galatians 5:20, where it is translated as “witchcraft.”
Revelation 18:23N-DFS GRK: ἐν τῇ φαρμακείᾳ σου ἐπλανήθησαν NAS: were deceived by your sorcery. KJV: by thy sorceries were all INT: by the sorcery of you were misled
When our scientists use genetic engineering on various drugs to mass produce them GMO’S it is called pharming ( not farming), but in the scriptures we translate it as sorcery. It’s called that because in it very root it means to alter or to change the essence of something. This is the root meaning of the word kashaph to alter or change the very essence of a plant, animal or person. These sorcerers were actually using satanic or supernatural power and knowledge to alter our Heavenly Fathers creation which was absolutely forbidden. To change or alter the very essence of a plant animal or person by splicing DNA and gene therapy thereby modifying or manipulating the very building blocks of life as Adonai created it, is the exact sin that pervaded the days of Noah where all flesh had been corrupted, and only Noah was perfect in his generations, meaning his DNA had not been tampered with and corrupted. We are warned by Messiah Himself, in Matthew 24:37 that the end of the age will be as the days of Noah!
We call the changing of the essence of a creature, genetic modification, do we think we can improve on what the Lord God Creator of the universe can do? We try to alter things and people into something different by going into the very genetic makeup and literally changing the genes, the blueprint of creation given by our Father.
The devil and his angels that fell with him lost their position, not their God given powers and abilities. Scripture consistently teaches that Satan possesses real but limited power. His influence includes deception, temptation, and disruption of God’s design, 1 Peter 5:8. However, Satan remains a created being, subordinate to the omnipotence of God. Even when Satan’s minions perform counterfeit miracles, their scope remains restricted by divine boundaries. Job 1:12; 2:6.
They cannot create in the same way our Heavenly Father can; however they can manipulate matter that already exists and share their forbidden knowledge with those who will choose them and their ways over our Heavenly Father and His. The Scripture declares that a kashaph – one who alters the very essence of life, should not be allowed to live. It may be too uncomfortable to say that the worlds food production through GMO’s and our supply of drugs through pharming or genetic modification is really kashaph –sorcery, but it certainly gives one pause for thought.
The reference to Wise Men from the East, often referred to as the Magi, are figures mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically inMatthew 2:1-12.They are described as learned men who traveled from the East to Jerusalem, guided by a star, to pay homage to the newborn King of the Jews, Jesus Christ.
The magicians are called khakamim, “wise men,” “men educated in human and divine wisdom” (Keil and Delitzsch); mekashshephim, “charmers,” “mutterers of magic words” (Gesenius); and khartummim, which is thought to mean either “sacred scribes” or “bearers of sacred words” (Cook). The word translated “enchantments” is lehatim, which means “secret” or “hidden arts” (Gesenius).
They were wise men, or magi, from the East. At the time, the term magi was used to describe learned men who studied astrology and astronomy, and who were interested in philosophy, dreams, and any knowledge that could broaden their understanding. The Eastern lands in that period correspond to what we now know as Iraq, Yemen, Iran, and Saudi Arabia, the Bible does not tell us the names of the wise men or how many there were in total. By tradition and because they brought three gifts, popular belief is that there were three wise men. They have been given the names Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar, but this is not a biblical fact.`
These magi were not sorcerers or magicians nor were they astrologers although they did observe the stars. These Magi were Jewish sages, wise men who came from the Medo-Persian Empire or Babylon; in the Diaspora jews during and after the time of Yeshua lived in Persia/Iran and had been there since the time of the prophet Daniel. Numbers 24:11 references the Star from Ya’akov and Micah 5:1-2. As Hebrew scholars they would have known the Messianic prophesies well. Historically Christian theologians have mistakenly insisted that the term magi was used as the name for priests and wise men among the Medo-Persians and Babylonians. These persons were supposed to be adept in that secret learning which in ages past had its seat and origins in Egypt and later in Chaldea from which they were later called chaldeans. Most christian scholars argue that the Magi were Gentiles and of pagan origin; however recent archeological evidence has proved that the Magi were neither gentiles nor astrologers, (stargazers) but in fact were Jewish sages/wise men. Babylon was still the place of residence for the majority of the Jewish community even as Matthew was writing in the first century. Scholars now agree that the origin of these Magi are linked to the prophet Daniel around 500 BCE, who, in the diaspora waited for the time promised of return and the restoration of Israel. There are some who have speculated that these wise men came form a Hebrew/Jewish school that originated in Daniels day, where the prophets looked to the heavens for the promised arrival of the Messiah. The star in the East was in fact a manifestation of Adonai’s Shekinah The Divine Presence/His Glory marking the arrival of the Son of man, (angelic beings are also called stars in many scripture references). It is sad in many ways that the Christian denominations persist in excluding any Historical evidence of Jewish/Hebrew origins in many of their doctrines, dogmas and traditions; because they miss the truth which far exceeds ideas of men and because it reveals our Heavenly Father’s perfect timing and plan in all things.
Exodus 7:11shows Pharaoh gathering together every earthly and occult resource to challenge the Adonai. His magicians can copy the surface miracle, but satanic imitation is not divine liberation. God’s unrivaled supremacy, the reality of demonic counterfeits, and the futility of resisting divine authority is clearly revealed in these events.
In the days that lie in front of us, we will be confronted by very convincing ‘lying signs and wonders’ and we will need the true wisdom of our Fathers Holy Spirit giving us the ability to discern good from evil and expose the counterfeit manifestations of demonic powers. Matthew 24:24
“False christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive…” This passage warns that Satan’s kingdom can manifest impressive deeds, aiming to lead people astray. From the earliest books of the Bible, there are accounts of individuals who perform supernatural acts through demonic power.
In various cultures and time periods, documented testimonies exist of occult practitioners displaying seemingly supernatural abilities-ranging from fortune-telling and spirit channelling to poltergeist phenomena. Ancient writings, such as those by Greek and Roman historians referencing sorcerers in their societies, align with biblical accounts that demonic forces can influence the physical realm.
Archaeological discoveries in regions such as Mesopotamia reveal tablets describing incantations and rituals aimed at enlisting spirits. These findings corroborate the biblical view that humanity has long sought supernatural assistance beyond God. While not every unexplained phenomenon is certifiably ‘demonic.’
Scripture cautions believers to remain watchful.
Authentic miracles will point to Christ and uphold godly principles. Demonic miracles often contradict or undermine Scripture. Works truly from our Heavenly Father are accompanied by spiritual fruit Galatians 5:22-23-love, joy, peace, etc. Demonic signs tend to engender fear, pride, exploitation, false promises or idolatry.
The confrontation between Moses and the magicians is a reminder of the spiritual warfare believers face. We must be equipped with the full armor of God to stand firm against spiritual deception. Eph 6. Demonic and satanic miracles refer to supernatural acts, signs, or wonders attributed to evil spiritual beings. These include counterfeit miracles performed by demons or by Satan himself, intended to deceive or mislead people away from truth. According to Scripture, there exist genuine miracles from God (e.g., Messiah healing the blind) and deceptive, malevolent wonders orchestrated by forces of darkness. Demonic or satanic miracles are always directed toward distracting individuals from God’s truth. Such acts may mimic divine miracles-but the objective is to twist truth, sow confusion, or elevate the performer over the Creator. A chief goal is to foster idolatry or occult practices that replace worship of the one true God with fear or veneration of evil powers.Deuteronomy 18:10-12.
The Bible urges caution against the fascination with demonic or satanic miracles and more recently the upsurge in ufo’s, uso’s and uap’s. Seeking out occult experiences inevitably opens the door to deception. Consequently, the biblical command is to cling to truth and turn from practices that involve spiritism or necromancy. Deuteronomy 18:9-14.
Believers are called to test all supernatural claims against the authority of Scripture, recognizing that signs leading away from the true God reveal their demonic origin. By staying rooted in truth and relying on the Holy Spirit, Christians can discern between God’s authentic miracles and the devil’s fraudulent displays.
Though demons may perform powerful signs, Scripture underscores our Heavenly Father’s supreme authority. Just as Yeshua/Jesus cast out demons (Luke 4:33-36) and gave His disciples power over them (Mark 6:7), the Church/ecclesia, is equipped to stand firm. Believers are assured that Adonai is supreme (Colossians 2:15), having disarmed the powers of darkness at the cross.
Despite the magicians’ efforts, God’s plan for the Israelites’ deliverance was unstoppable. This reassures us of His sovereignty in our lives and His ultimate control over all circumstances.
Our part is to stay close to our Lord and Savior and to make certain we are not in any way relying on or connected to anything resembling sorcery witchcraft or the occult. Making sure we reject all spiritual shortcuts—horoscopes, charms, psychoactive experimentation used for mystical insight. Uphold responsible medical science while avoiding treatments laced with occult ritual. Engage culture with the gospel, exposing counterfeit spiritualities that promise healing or enlightenment apart from Yeshua haMashiach/Jesus Christ.
Revelation portrays sorcery as a sure sign of the end-time world system. Its ultimate defeat assures believers that every deceptive power will yield to the Messiah’s reign. Faithful endurance requires continual faithfulness and allegiance to our Father’s truth, trusting His sovereign control rather than any human-engineered remedy for sin or suffering.
Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family
and cheverim/friends!
It’s all about Life and Relationship,
NOT Religion.
You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.
NOT SURE?
YOU CAN BE..
SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…
Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.
I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen
