At some point during his reign, perhaps under the direction of Samuel, Saul had expelled mediums and spiritists from the land of Israel.1 Such a command was consistent with the instructions given in God’s law (Deuteronomy 18:19–22, Leviticus 19:31, Leviticus 20:6, Leviticus 20:27).2 These instructions were necessary because necromancy and associated practices were widespread in the land of Canaan. Later history would show that such practices continued in Israel (cf.Isaiah 8:19, Isaiah 29:4, 2 Kings 21:6, 2 Kings 23:23)3 despite clear prohibitions.4 They were popular because they promised secret knowledge and access to hidden power.
3 Now Samuel had died, and all Israel had mourned for him and buried him in Ramah, his own city. And Saul had put the mediums and the necromancers out of the land.