Are ghosts real?

"And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment." —Hebrews 9:27 (NLT)

The word "ghost" has had several different meanings throughout history. A "ghost" typically refers to the spirit or soul of a dead human or animal. Belief in ghosts and supernatural or paranormal activity has been going on for thousands of years. The belief in ghosts is the basis for animism and ancestor worship.

The way people have characterized ghosts' natures varies widely. Some believe ghosts are angry, violent, tortured souls. Some believe ghosts must stay in the same location, such as being "bound" to a certain house or gravesite. Some believe ghosts will appear so they can protect or comfort their loved ones.

It's true that humans DO have a physical body and a non-physical spirit. And the Bible is clear that the spiritual realm is a very real thing (Ephesians 6:12). When the physical body dies, it's true that the spirit and body are separated (Ecclesiastes 12:7; 2 Corinthians 5:8). So if these things are true, is it possible that a ghost—a dead person's spirit—could return to earth?

Well, there's ONE biblical "ghost" story...

Samuel, the Irritated Ghost

In 1 Samuel 28, we find out that Israel's first king, Saul, had a problem. His army was facing a much larger force, and Samuel, the prophet Saul usually consulted, had died. Saul didn't know how to ask God what he should do. His solution was to find a medium and ask her to call Samuel (v. 7-9).

To be clear, God had already told the Israelites that using witchcraft to communicate with the dead was worthy of execution (Leviticus 20:27). So not only was Saul breaking God's command, but he was also asking this woman to break God's law as well.

The witch performed her ritual, and Samuel appeared. The woman was shocked and screamed when she saw Samuel (1 Samuel 28:12), likely because she had never actually summoned a ghost before! God was the one who allowed Samuel to appear because the Lord had turned His back on Saul (v. 16). Samuel was very irritated at being disturbed (v. 15) but still reminded Saul of everything he had already told him about his bleak future before he disappeared.

This was an absolutely unique event and the only mention of a ghost in the Bible.

Can the spirit of a dead person appear to the living?

No, the spirit of a dead person cannot appear to the living—not without God's direct intervention. And, honestly, He's very much against the idea. Once we die, our souls go to a holding place—either good or bad—until we're judged by God (Hebrews 9:27; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Luke 16:22-23).

Besides God, there are only two types of beings who are spirit and visit earth: angels and demons. If someone sees a spirit, it's either an angel, a demon, or a medical problem.

What does that mean for the person who feels they have seen a deceased loved one? This is one where we really can't say for sure. Clearly, there was at least one time when God allowed it to happen. But there are too many variables for us to either confirm or deny what anyone claims to see.

We CAN say that the likelihood that it's a real person who has died is very low, considering that God has already told us that we shouldn't speak to the dead or ask them for wisdom (1 Samuel 15:23; Deuteronomy 18:10). If you are at all involved in the occult or paranormal investigations, we urge you to stop immediately and throw out your paraphernalia. If you're seeking wisdom or grieving the loss of a loved one, please turn to the God who loves you, is always near, and has the answers you seek.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." —James 1:5

ALSO SEE:

• What does the Bible say about witchcraft?
• What does the Bible say about praying to the dead?
• What does the Bible say about divination?
• What happens after death?
• Finding Peace While Grieving
• Are demons real?
• What do demons do?
• The Truth About Demons
• What's wrong with stories about demons?
• What is the full Armor of God?
• Is there evidence of demonic activity today?
• What is the human soul?
• Is the human soul immortal?
• How are human souls created?
• Will my pet go to Heaven?