Pharmakeia Uncovered: Manipulative Behavior - It's Not Just About Drugs!
- Hadassah Z
- Feb 22
- 11 min read
Updated: Feb 23
What is Pharmakeia? A Biblical Examination
The theme of pharmakeia and its connections to both positive and negative activity can be applied to various elements in life, particularly when substances or behavioral practices are involved.
The Greek word pharmakeia is often translated as sorcery, witchcraft, or magic in the Bible, and in many cases, it refers to the act of mixing substances—such as drugs, potions, or concoctions—with the intent to manipulate or control. In ancient times, this practice was closely associated with occult rituals, where substances were used to alter the mind or spirit, typically for purposes of control, deception, and spiritual corruption. The substances, often chemicals or natural extracts, were believed to have supernatural powers that could influence the will of others, induce altered states of consciousness, or open pathways to forbidden spiritual realms.
These practices were not merely about physical intoxication but involved a deeper connection to the idea of manipulating reality, bending the human will, or even deceiving others into following falsehoods or engaging in immoral behaviors. In modern contexts, pharmakeia can encompass the use of drugs or other mind-altering substances to escape reality, avoid personal responsibility, or gain a false sense of peace and power. In the book of Galatians, the actions of the believing pharisees, attempting to force compliance of the law onto the other believers was categorized by the new testament as sorcery too. Remember, that story was not about the law being abolished but rather the controlling efforts of people to enforce it outside of God's Grace. See also 3 John.
Understanding pharmakeia requires more than just recognizing substances alone; it demands discernment in behaviors as well. I the intent to serve others, or to control, dominate, and deceive? Is that person forbidding you as in 3 John; an act of pharmakeia by restricting your ability to choose and grow? It's not just about the presence of substances and their use but the intent behind their use and peoples control needs, that reveals whether they align with or oppose God’s design for healing, restoration, and freedom.
Two Sides of Pharmakeia
Just as wine can be used wisely or abused, both substances and influence can be used for good or evil.
Pharmakeia through substances corrupts by distorting perception and leading to spiritual deception.
Pharmakeia through behavior corrupts by controlling, manipulating, and leading people away from God.
Paul's warning is about the misuse of both substances and influence, not their mere existence. As believers, we must discern whether our choices lead to bondage or freedom, healing or harm, truth or deception.
Pharmakeia Through Behavior
While pharmakeia is commonly associated with substances, it also applies to manipulative behaviors designed to control others through deception, coercion, and false authority. This includes:
Spiritual manipulation – Using religious influence to control people rather than guiding them in truth.
Psychological coercion – Ensnaring others through fear, guilt, or deceit.
Legalism and false doctrines – Imposing unnecessary rules or teachings that bind people rather than setting them free in Christ.
Galatians 5:19-21
Legalistic Control Breeds the Works of the Flesh – Paul lists jealousy, divisions, and strife among the "works of the flesh." These are exactly the kinds of behaviors that arise in religious manipulation, where people are pressured into outward conformity rather than true spiritual transformation.
The Strong Connection to Sorcery (Pharmakeia) –
The Greek word translated "sorcery" (φαρμακεία, pharmakeia) in Galatians 5:20 refers not just to witchcraft but to manipulative practices, deception, and control.
In context, Paul is grouping coercion-based religion with serious sins like idolatry and sorcery—suggesting that those who force compliance are engaging in something spiritually corrupt.
Sorcery in ancient times often involved manipulation, deception, and control over others, much like religious legalism does.
Does It Fit?
Yes! This concept correctly reflects the subject's thematic flow—that those who coerce and manipulate through religious control aren’t operating in righteousness but in the flesh, which Paul equates to even greater corruption like sorcery.
Biblical Warnings Against Manipulation
Just as substances can be used to deceive, human influence can be wielded to control others, often disguising itself as righteousness:
Colossians 2:8 – Warns against being taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophy.
Matthew 23:4 – Condemns the Pharisees for binding heavy burdens on others without lifting a finger to help.
2 Peter 2:1-3 – Speaks of false teachers who exploit people with deceptive words.
The Connection Between Sorcery and Control
Pharmakeia in the spiritual sense is about leading others away from God through deception. Just as chemical pharmakeia alters consciousness and clouds judgment, manipulative pharmakeia distorts truth and enslaves people to human authority rather than divine guidance.
Is All Use and Form of Pharmakeia Condemned?
Paul’s warning in Galatians 5:19-21 must be understood in context. The condemnation of pharmakeia is not a blanket ban on all medicinal or natural substances, nor does it mean all influence is inherently evil. Rather, it is a warning against:
Using substances to control, deceive, or manipulate others. This aspect highlights the ethical implications of using drugs or other substances as tools for coercion or manipulation. In many societies, certain substances have been historically employed to exert influence over individuals, whether through the use of intoxicants at social gatherings or the administration of drugs to alter perceptions and behavior. Paul emphasizes that such practices are not only morally questionable but also detrimental to the integrity of relationships and the community as a whole. The intention behind using these substances can lead to exploitation and harm, contradicting the fundamental Christian principle of love and respect for one another.
Seeking spiritual enlightenment or altered states outside of God’s design. This warning addresses the pursuit of spiritual experiences through means that are not aligned with biblical teachings. In many cultures, there is a tendency to explore various spiritual practices, often involving the use of hallucinogens or other mind-altering substances, in the hope of achieving a deeper connection with the divine. However, Paul cautions that such pursuits can lead individuals away from the true understanding of God and His intended path for spiritual growth. Instead of relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, individuals may find themselves ensnared in practices that can distort their understanding of faith and lead to confusion, rather than clarity and truth.
Indulging in addictive behaviors that enslave rather than heal. This point underscores the danger of becoming ensnared in habits that provide temporary relief or pleasure but ultimately lead to bondage. Addiction can take many forms, whether it be substance abuse, compulsive behaviors, or even excessive reliance on certain activities that detract from one’s spiritual and personal growth. Paul’s message serves as a reminder that true healing and freedom are found in a relationship with Christ, rather than in the fleeting satisfaction that comes from indulging in addictive substances or behaviors. The call is to seek wholeness and restoration through God’s design for our lives, rather than through means that can ultimately lead to despair and separation from the community of believers.
Engaging in manipulative control over others, leading them away from truth.
Engaging in manipulative control over others involves using deceitful tactics to shape their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors, often without their awareness. This manipulation can take many forms, such as gaslighting, spreading misinformation, or distorting facts to create doubt or confusion in a person's mind. The manipulator’s goal is typically to dominate, influence, or exploit the other person, leading them to a false version of reality that serves the manipulator's interests. This not only compromises the victim's ability to perceive the truth clearly but also undermines their autonomy and personal judgment. Over time, such manipulation can erode trust, distort relationships, and cultivate a toxic environment where individuals feel disempowered and disconnected from objective truths.
Pharmakeia and Its Connections
Here are just some examples where the same connections between righteous and unrighteous attitudes can be considered:
1. Food and Drink
Positive Use: Food and drink are given by God as sustenance, joy, and nourishment (Genesis 1:29; 1 Timothy 4:4). When consumed properly and in moderation, they fulfill God’s purpose for our well-being. Just as medicinal herbs or natural remedies can heal, nutritious food and drink support health and vitality.
Example: A balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods for nourishment and healing.
Negative Use: Gluttony, addiction to unhealthy foods, or consuming substances that alter the mind or body (such as excessive alcohol or processed foods laden with chemicals) can be considered forms of pharmakeia. These behaviors distort the purpose of food and drink, turning them into tools of indulgence, escapism, or control.
Example: Using alcohol or junk food as a means of emotional escape or as a way to numb negative feelings.
2. Technology and Social Media
Positive Use: Technology, like information, when used for good—such as learning, teaching, and building community—can be a tool for godly purpose. Using it to share knowledge, help others, and improve lives aligns with God's creative intent (Proverbs 1:5; Acts 17:11).
Example: Using social media to spread the gospel, educate, and build healthy, supportive communities.
Negative Use: The misuse of technology, like social media or entertainment, for escapism, addiction, or manipulation, can mirror the effects of pharmakeia. The constant craving for approval, the promotion of deception, or becoming absorbed in false identities and lives can serve as an idol, leading to bondage (1 John 2:16; Colossians 3:5).
Example: Using social media to escape reality, create false personas, or spread harmful ideologies or lies.
3. Medicine and Pharmaceuticals
Positive Use: God has provided us with various medicinal remedies to promote healing, just as natural herbs and substances are used for restorative purposes (Ezekiel 47:12). When used properly and with discernment, modern medicine can be a tool of God for healing.
Example: Using prescribed medicine for managing chronic conditions, healing, or recovery after surgery.
Negative Use: The overuse or abuse of pharmaceuticals, particularly for mind-altering purposes or to maintain control over others, mirrors pharmakeia. This includes addiction to prescription medications or using drugs recreationally for altered states of consciousness, which can lead to physical, emotional, or spiritual destruction (Proverbs 23:31-32; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Example: Using prescription drugs for recreational purposes or self-medication, leading to dependency or spiritual degradation.
4. Music and Entertainment
Positive Use: Music and entertainment have the power to inspire, heal, and bring joy, aligning with God’s design for beauty and expression. When used to glorify God or edify others, they reflect God’s creativity and bring peace (Psalm 100:1-2; 1 Corinthians 10:31).
Example: Listening to uplifting music that encourages faith, hope, and love.
Negative Use: Music or entertainment that promotes violence, immorality, or ungodly messages can be a form of pharmakeia. This includes music or films that encourage harmful behavior or emotional manipulation, drawing individuals into negativity or idolatry (Philippians 4:8; Romans 13:13-14).
Example: Consuming media that glorifies sin, perpetuates lies, or leads to unhealthy emotional or mental states.
5. Sexuality
Positive Use: Sexuality, when practiced in accordance with God’s design for marriage, is a gift meant for procreation, intimacy, and the bonding of husband and wife (Genesis 2:24; Hebrews 13:4). Within the bounds of marriage, it is a blessing that reflects the union between Christ and the Church.
Example: A loving, committed sexual relationship between a husband and wife that honors God’s design.
Negative Use: When sexuality is used outside of God’s design, it becomes a form of pharmakeia, leading to idolatry, addiction, manipulation, and spiritual harm. This includes promiscuity, pornography, or any form of sexual exploitation, which distorts God’s original intent and enslaves the individual (1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Romans 1:24-27).
Example: Engaging in pornography, sexual addiction, or exploiting others for sexual gain, which distorts the sanctity of sex and creates spiritual bondage.
6. Power and Authority
Positive Use: Power, influence, and authority can be used for good when they are exercised to serve others and advance God’s kingdom. Jesus taught that greatness in the Kingdom of God comes through serving others, not lording over them (Matthew 20:26-28).
Example: A leader using their position to serve their community, provide guidance, and uplift others in the name of justice and compassion.
Negative Use: The abuse of power for control, manipulation, or selfish gain is a form of pharmakeia. This includes corrupt leadership, exploitation of others, or seeking power for pride and personal benefit, leading to oppression and injustice (Matthew 23:4-7; James 4:6; 3 John 9-10; Prov 10:8-11).
Example: Leaders using their influence to manipulate others for personal gain or perpetuate systems of injustice and exploitation.
7. Knowledge and Information
Positive Use: Knowledge and wisdom, when used in service of truth, understanding, and righteousness, are powerful tools for good. Scripture encourages believers to seek knowledge and wisdom that aligns with God’s will (Proverbs 4:7; James 1:5).
Example: Using knowledge to build a business that serves the community, spread truth, or offer solutions to societal problems.
Negative Use: The misuse of knowledge, whether through lies, manipulation, or deceit, becomes a form of pharmakeia. Information that is twisted to manipulate minds, deceive others, or control people for selfish purposes aligns with this negative use of power (2 Timothy 3:7; Colossians 2:8).
Example: Spreading false information or using knowledge to deceive others or control their behavior for personal or political gain.
8. Spiritual Practices
Positive Use: Prayer, worship, and meditation on God’s Word are spiritual practices that align with God’s will, helping to deepen one’s relationship with Him and bring peace and restoration (Psalm 1:2; Philippians 4:6-7).
Example: Meditation on scripture or prayer as a means to connect with God, find peace, and grow spiritually.
Negative Use: Spiritual practices that seek to connect with forces outside of God, such as witchcraft, astrology, or occult rituals, are forms of pharmakeia. These practices often involve manipulation, deception, and control through spiritual means, leading individuals away from God’s truth (Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Galatians 5:19-21).
Example: Engaging in occult rituals, using spiritual practices to manipulate others, or relying on sources of spiritual power outside of God’s will; reciting prayers that manipulate rather than asking God's will and leaving it at that.
Discernment in All Things - Intent Determines Alignment
Just as wine can be used wisely or abused, herbs and natural substances can be used righteously or sinfully.
Used for healing? It aligns with God's provision.
Used for control, sorcery, or indulgence? It falls under pharmakeia.
Used to enforce unnecessary legalistic control over others? It risks distorting Paul’s message and reinforcing the very legalism he opposed in Galatians.
Paul’s condemnation of pharmakeia isn't completely about banning medications, whether they're natural or not. It's more about being cautious of control and manipulation, which can show up as pharmakeia through different substances, actions, or mindsets. It highlights how deities can impact our inner selves. This gives us a chance to reflect and make sure we're not getting caught up in control or manipulation that goes against our spiritual goals, if that's what we're aiming for. As believers, we must discern whether our choices lead to bondage or freedom, healing or harm, truth or deception. And honestly, no one can decide these things for anyone else.
Conclusion:
In each of these elements—whether substances, actions, or practices—the key to determining whether they align with God’s will or fall under the condemnation of pharmakeia is intent and application. When used for godly purposes, they can be tools for healing, restoration, and good. However, when used for escapism, control, or manipulation, they lead to spiritual harm and deception. No one should be coercing obedience under unrighteous judgement (John 7:24) by making determinations about things they have no knowledge of: intent; heart; thought; feelings; etc. As believers, it is essential to discern how we use God’s creation and align our actions with His will, seeking freedom and healing rather than bondage or destruction.
Study Tools
Thought Experiment:
Let’s think about things like coffee, phones, computers, sugar, ________, _______, ________. What things in your life would you rightfully have to give up defending a rigid attitude toward biblical pharmakeia?
Who can you not even think about living without?
How long can you go without noise?
Just because a cigarette seems harmless, are you addicted?
How about money and belongings?
(You know, I once experienced a person who was really good at keeping the law, you know; did everything right, but among so many other weird statements for a person of faith to make, she actually asked me if I really thought she wanted to live like me. I live a very simple, humble life, not a lot of mammon. It was quite a peak at her soul – felt sorry for her but she has as much opportunity to change as anyone else. We all have a copy of the same Bible, right?)
How about controversy and violence? Some people in the world truly believe they don’t deserve good and are addicted to others treating them badly. These are perpetual victims.
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