According to Tom Meyer, a professor of Bible studies at Shasta Bible College and Graduate School in California, there is precedent in the Bible of significant figures resorting to witchcraft in moments of doubt.
In particular, King Saul who is believed to have led the first United Kingdom of Israel in the 11th century BC sought a witch for help.
Professor Meyer said: “What did ancient Israelites think about consulting the dead for advice?
“Their Canaanite neighbours observed this practice, but they were forbidden to do so.
“In fact, during the dispensation of the Mosaic Law, if anyone in Canaan – whether an Israelite or a foreign resident – claimed to have a familiar spirit or practised black magic, they were to be executed by the governing authorities.
