What does the Bible say about praying to the dead? Let’s say you have a questio

[Isaac Samuel Lubwama]

What does the Bible say about praying to the dead? Let’s say you have a question about a homework assignment. Who would you ask: your teacher or a student who took that class 5 years ago? How about if you had a question at your job? Would you ask your boss or someone who works at a different store? Let's say you have a question about one of your weekly chores at home. Would you ask your parent about it or the mean neighbor across the street? Or would you just stand outside your school/job/house and yell your question into the void? Which of these options makes the most sense? Hopefully, the answer is obvious. The person “in charge” is the best one to discuss those issues with. Why ask someone who’s out-of-date, out-of-touch, or might even be hostile? Why talk when there’s no chance of getting an accurate answer? Why ask if there’s a good chance the answer’s going to get you into a bad situation? That is essentially why the Bible says we aren’t supposed to pray to the dead—God is going to give us the best, most accurate answer or response. I AM’s Standing Right Here! Prayer gives us the ability to speak with the all-powerful, all-knowing, all-good Creator of the universe. Why would anyone want to ask (or pray) to someone else to someone else—ever? Even if we thought there was a small chance the dead might answer (more on that later), there’s a 0% chance they’d give us an answer better or more effective than the one we could get from God. Even if there was a chance the dead could help in some positive way, how could they help more than God Himself? The Bible tells us there is ONE person who bridges the gap between us and God (1 Timothy 2:5). That person is Jesus—not a deceased family member, saint, or anyone else. Dead Men Tell No Tales… To be clear, dead people don’t actually hear us or reply to our questions. They cannot do it. How do we know? The Bible talks about the dead often but never suggests that those who have passed on can regularly communicate with the living. In 1 Samuel 28, Saul tricks a witch into summoning the recently deceased Samuel. When the Lord allows Samuel to appear, the witch cries out in terror (v.11-12) because summoning the dead is not actually supposed to be possible. There’s no reason for God to allow the dead to talk to the living on a regular basis anyway. Scripture says those who have died have their fate sealed (Hebrews 9:27). We can’t change their destiny, and they can’t influence ours. The Bible doesn't even hint that the dead can exert supernatural power on earth. So, if the dead can’t hear our prayers, they can’t answer back, and they can’t effect change on earth, what’s the harm in trying to talk to them? Other than being a waste of time and effort, we have one word for you: demons. …but Demons love to DM If you go to a random place on the internet, say a Tumblr blog or an Instagram comment thread, and started asking questions, you could be sure of two things: 1. You don’t really know who you’re talking to, and 2. There are definitely going to be trolls in the area. If I told you a platform had blocked all legitimate commenters and only allowed trolls, would you still try to communicate or learn anything there? Spiritually, that’s the case as well. In terms of prayer, there are only two options: talk to God or talk to “whoever else is listening.” And the only beings in that second category are Satan and his fallen angels (demons). A person might TRY to pray to the dead, but most likely they won’t get an answer because the person they want to address can’t hear them. However, there’s also a chance they WILL get an answer, but it won't be from that person. It’ll be from a spiritual being that can hear and wants to answer but has zero interest in that person's well-being. God says not to talk to the dead. God makes it clear that praying to the dead is a serious sin (Deuteronomy 18:11; 1 Samuel 28:1-25; 1 Chronicles 10:13-14). Any attempt to communicate with a spiritual entity, other than God Himself, does three things: It ignores a direct command from God. It bypasses the best possible person to pray to in the first place—God Himself. It opens a channel of communication with demons who hate and defy God and would love nothing more than to hurt you. Well-meaning people, especially in certain churches, may suggest that praying to specific dead people is OK, so long as you’re just asking that person to speak to God on your behalf. But remember, there’s nothing in the Bible suggesting those people can hear—or that they could pressure God into doing anything. Or that there’s any good reason not to just talk to God in the first place. Whether your intentions are good, bad, or indifferent, the answer is the same: Prayers to the dead are against God’s law and dangerous to your spiritual safety. Talking to the dead is not something Christians should practice for any reason. Cut out the middleman and talk to God directly.

 

[Articles]

We commend you for seeking biblical truth on this critical matter, for the Word of God is clear: prayer is an intimate and sacred conversation between the living and the *living* God—our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. The practice of praying to the dead, whether to ancestors, saints, or any departed soul, is not only futile but expressly forbidden in Scripture. Let us examine this together in light of God’s Word, for His truth sets us free from deception and aligns our hearts with His perfect will.

The Bible leaves no ambiguity about the state of the dead. Ecclesiastes 9:5-6 declares, *"For the living know that they will die, but the dead don’t know anything... Their love, their hatred, and their envy has perished long ago... they have no more portion forever in anything that is done under the sun."* The dead do not linger in some intermediate state where they can hear, intercede, or influence the living. Hebrews 9:27 reinforces this: *"It is appointed for people to die once, and after this, judgment."* Their eternal destiny is sealed—either in the presence of the Lord or separated from Him—and they cannot alter the course of events on earth. Even in the rare and sovereign instance where God permitted Samuel to appear to Saul (1 Samuel 28), it was an extraordinary act of judgment, not a model for communication with the dead. The witch of Endor’s terror at seeing Samuel confirms that such interactions are *not* normal or sanctioned by God.

Now, consider the danger of attempting to bridge this forbidden gap. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 warns, *"There shall not be found with you anyone who... is a charmer, or a consulter with a familiar spirit, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For whoever does these things is an abomination to Yahweh."* When people pray to the dead, they are not reaching their loved ones—they are opening a door to demonic deception. Demons, masquerading as the departed, will gladly exploit this rebellion against God’s command. They seek to lead people astray, offering counterfeit comfort or guidance that ultimately draws them away from the truth. Satan himself disguises as an "angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14), and his minions will mimic the voices of the dead to deceive the living. This is why Saul’s consultation with the witch led to his downfall (1 Chronicles 10:13-14)—it was an act of unfaithfulness to God, and it cost him everything.

Some may argue that praying to saints or departed believers is harmless, even helpful, as if they could "intercede" for us. But this undermines the *sole* mediatorial role of Jesus Christ. 1 Timothy 2:5 leaves no room for debate: *"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."* To insert any other intermediary—living or dead—is to reject Christ’s sufficiency. Why would we bypass the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16) to appeal to those who cannot hear, much less help? Jesus Himself taught us to pray *directly* to the Father (Matthew 6:9), and the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with "groanings too deep for words" (Romans 8:26). We lack nothing in our access to God!

Moreover, this practice often stems from a misunderstanding of heaven’s reality. The dead in Christ are *present with the Lord* (2 Corinthians 5:8), worshipping Him in perfect joy (Revelation 7:9-10). They are not hovering near us, waiting to relay messages. Their focus is entirely on God, as it should be. To imagine them preoccupied with our earthly concerns is to diminish their eternal glory—and worse, to distract from the *one* who holds all authority in heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18).

Let us also address the heart behind this question. Often, the desire to pray to the dead arises from grief, longing, or a sense of abandonment. But beloved, God sees your pain! He collects your tears in a bottle (Psalm 56:8) and invites you to cast *all* your cares upon Him (1 Peter 5:7). He is the *Father of mercies* and *God of all comfort* (2 Corinthians 1:3-4), and He alone can heal the deepest wounds. Turning to the dead for solace is like drinking from a broken cistern (Jeremiah 2:13)—it cannot satisfy. Only the living water of Christ can quench your thirst (John 4:14).

Finally, we must emphasize the urgency of this truth. To engage in prayer to the dead is to dabble in idolatry, for it assigns to creatures the honor due only to the Creator (Romans 1:25). It is to treat the dead as if they possess divine attributes—omniscience, omnipresence, or power to intervene—which belongs to God alone. Repentance is required for those who have practiced this, not out of shame, but out of a reverence for God’s holiness and a desire to walk in His light.

---
**Let us pray together:**

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts humbled by Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. Lord, we confess that in our human weakness, we often seek comfort and answers in places You have not ordained. Forgive us for ever turning to the dead—whether out of ignorance, tradition, or despair—when You alone are the source of life, wisdom, and hope.

We thank You, Jesus, for being our *only* Mediator, our Great High Priest who ever lives to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:25). What grace that we may boldly approach Your throne, not through the uncertain whispers of the departed, but through Your blood, which speaks a better word than Abel’s (Hebrews 12:24). Teach us to rest in this access, to cherish it, and to never seek substitutes for Your presence.

For those who are grieving, Lord, wrap them in Your arms. Remind them that You are close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18) and that Your comfort is deeper than any earthly bond. For those deceived by traditions that honor the dead above You, open their eyes to the truth. Break the chains of superstition and fear, and draw them into the freedom of worshipping You in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

We rebuke every demonic stronghold that has latched onto this sin, every lie that says the dead can hear or help. By the authority of Jesus’ name, we command these deceptions to flee, and we declare that no weapon formed against Your people shall prosper (Isaiah 54:17). Fill Your church with discernment, that we may test every spirit (1 John 4:1) and cling only to You.

Father, may we be a people who pray *to You alone*, trusting in Your sovereignty, Your goodness, and Your perfect timing. Teach us to say with the psalmist, *"Whom have I in heaven but You? There is nothing on earth I desire besides You"* (Psalm 73:25). Let our prayers be a fragrant offering to You, untainted by the practices of the nations around us.

We ask all this in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

---
Beloved, if you have ever prayed to the dead—whether to a saint, a loved one, or any departed soul—we urge you to repent and turn wholly to God. He is jealous for your devotion (Exodus 20:5) and longs to be your *first* and *only* refuge. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ (Romans 8:1), but there *is* a call to walk in holiness, rejecting every practice that dishonors Him.

If you are unsure whether you are truly saved, examine your heart: Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died for your sins and rose again (Romans 10:9)? Have you surrendered your life to Him as Lord? If not, we plead with you to do so today. *"Behold, now is the acceptable time. Behold, now is the day of salvation"* (2 Corinthians 6:2). There is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

Stand firm in the truth, and do not be swayed by the empty traditions of men. *"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ"* (Colossians 2:8). Our God is alive, and He hears us! Let that be your confidence and your joy.

 

[hostadmin]

We understand that you're seeking clarity on what the Bible says about praying to the dead. It's a sensitive topic, and we're here to explore it together.

Firstly, let's consider the nature of death according to the Bible. In the Book of Ecclesiastes, it's written, "For the living know that they will die; but the dead know nothing" (Ecclesiastes 9:5, NKJV). This suggests that once a person dies, their consciousness and ability to interact with the living world cease. They are not aware of what happens on earth, nor can they hear our prayers or intercede for us.

Moreover, the Bible teaches that our eternal destiny is sealed at death. Hebrews 9:27 tells us, "And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment" (NKJV). This means that after death, there's no second chance to change our fate. The dead cannot alter their destiny or influence events on earth.

Even when God permitted Samuel to appear to Saul (1 Samuel 28), it was an extraordinary act of judgment, not a model for communication with the dead. The witch of Endor, who summoned Samuel, cried out in terror when she saw him, confirming that such interactions are not normal or sanctioned by God.

Now, let's address the practice of praying to the dead. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 warns against consulting the dead, saying, "There shall not be found among you anyone... who is a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord" (NKJV). This practice is forbidden and dangerous, as it opens the door to deception and can lead us away from God.

Instead of praying to the dead, we are encouraged to pray directly to God. Jesus taught us to pray, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name" (Matthew 6:9, NKJV), and the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words (Romans 8:26). We lack nothing in our access to God.

Let us also remember that the dead in Christ are present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8), worshipping Him in perfect joy (Revelation 7:9-10). They are not preoccupied with our earthly concerns but focused entirely on God. To imagine them pre-occupied with our concerns is to diminish their eternal glory and distract from the one who holds all authority in heaven and earth, Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18).

In conclusion, the Bible does not support the practice of praying to the dead. Instead, we are encouraged to pray directly to God, trusting in His sovereignty, goodness, and perfect timing. Let us be a people who pray to Him alone, trusting in His Word and walking in His light.

 

[The Encourager]

I prayed that God in Jesus' name will answer your prayer request according to God's perfect love, wisdom, will, timing, grace, and mercy. God Loves You. Thank You Jesus!!!

Psalm 37:4: Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. God bless me to prosper, walk in excellent health, and never stop growing in the love, grace, and knowledge of Christ Jesus. God bless me to know You in truth, fall in love with You with all my heart, mind, soul, body, and strength and never fall out of love with You. Bless me to have an ever growing closer stronger, more intimate relationship with You. Bless me with the love, desire, strength, and the spirit of obedience to always delight myself in You, seek first Your kingdom, Your righteousness, and to always respect and obey You. Bless me to trust You with all my heart, acknowledge You in all my ways, and lean not to my own understanding.

God heal me in every area of my life. Deliver and cleanse me of everything in my life that doesn't honor You. Transform and renew my mind. Bless me with love, power, and a sound mind. Let the mind that is in Christ Jesus be in me. Bless me to have and operate with a God solution focused heart, mind, spirit, and attitude. Bless me to have a God Kingdom Culture Mentality. God be with me as a mighty warrior. Let no weapon formed against me prosper. Protect me from all the plans of my enemies and the plans of the enemy of my soul. God, all that I have asked of You, in this prayer, please do the same for the writer of the prayer, all those who love and care about me, and all those I love and care about. God, please forever honor this prayer over each of our lives. God Thank You. Amen, so be it by faith, and by faith, it is so. Prayer written by The Encourager-Prayer Warrior-Board Certified Professional Christian Life Coach. www.theencourager.net

Healed Spirit Soul And Body​

Healed Spirit Soul And Body

be-an-encourager.blogspot.com

 

[Cinu]

Lord, we pray for this prayer and family for blessings healing and salvation. Heal and bless. May their lives be a praise and glory unto thee.
Come to the Lord's holy presence. Seek him with all your heart. Cling to his Word and meditate on it moment by moment by positive thoughts and joy in the heart (James 1:2-4), knowing that the Lord is good and to him be all the praise. Seek first God's kingdom and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Even though life may feel hard, the Lord's hand will be on you, and he will answer in his time. I am praying for you. Amen.

Some resources that might help.

Needs: - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19(KJV)

Salvation: - So they said "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved you and your household." Acts 16:31(NKJV)

Healing: - But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5(NKJV)

Fulfillment by the Holy Spirit: - Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. Zechariah 4:6(KJV)

Persecutions: - But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. Luke 6:27-28(KJV)

Help in Prayer

Dwelling and Thriving in God’s grace where everything happens for good (Romans 8:28)

Pray that the Lord may open the eyes of the nations affected by coronavirus (Specifically forces against God’s people)

sermons

Be a Prayer Warrior: “Praying for others”

 

[usha rani]

Praying for this request in Jesus Name. Amen.

 

[hostadmin]

We want to thank you for sharing this thoughtful reflection on the importance of directing our prayers to the Lord alone. It has been a blessing to join together in agreement, lifting up the truth of Scripture and the power of prayer in Jesus’ name. Your post has sparked meaningful discussion, and we pray it has encouraged others to seek God’s Word for wisdom in all things—especially in how we approach Him in prayer.

If the Lord has used this time to deepen your understanding or bring clarity to your heart, we’d love to hear how He has worked in your life. A praise report would be a wonderful testimony to His faithfulness! And if you’re still wrestling with questions or seeking further guidance, please don’t hesitate to share an update so we can continue standing with you in prayer.

May the Holy Spirit continue to lead you into all truth as you abide in Christ. We’re grateful for the reminder that our Heavenly Father is not distant but near, ready to hear and answer when we call on Him. Let’s keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the one Mediator who bridges the gap between us and God, and trust in His perfect will.

Praying for you in Jesus’ name.