Not to go into a trance to foresee events, etc.

This mitzvah prohibits me’onen — entering a trance or using methods like chanting, cloud-gazing, or time-based superstitions to predict events. Rambam codifies that this includes those who attempt to hypnotize themselves or others into altered states to foresee outcomes. The Torah views such practices as deceitful and spiritually dangerous because they substitute false mystical techniques for reliance on Hashem and prophecy. Sefer HaChinuch stresses that these practices distract from true spiritual growth and mislead communities. The Talmud distinguishes between natural wisdom (e.g., using experience, signs in weather, or medical knowledge) and prohibited mystical trances used to manipulate fate.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Lo Ta’aseh 33): Counts the prohibition of me’onen, forbidding trances or soothsaying.
• Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:8): Defines me’onen as those who schedule actions based on specific times, or place themselves in altered states to foresee events.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 250): Explains that Israel must trust Hashem’s providence and not false predictions; such practices weaken the foundation of Torah life.
• Talmud (Sanhedrin 65b): Lists me’onen as those who attempt to foresee the future through times, trances, or enchantments.
• Rashi (Deut. 18:10): Interprets me’onen as those who claim to determine auspicious times through trances or superstitious timing.
• Ramban (Deut. 18:10): Emphasizes that Israel’s distinction is prophecy — Hashem provides guidance, unlike the nations who use trances and omens.
• Midrash (Sifrei Devarim §171): Teaches that me’onen is falsehood and vanity, and that Israel must not confuse fantasy with divine wisdom.

Contrast with…

• Mitzvah 60 (Not to Be Superstitious): Nichush is reliance on signs and coincidences, while Mitzvah 61 prohibits altered states or time-based enchantments (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:4 vs. 11:8).
• Talmud (Sanhedrin 65b): Contrasts nichush (omens) with me’onen (time-trance practices), noting both are banned but distinct.

Parallel to…

• Isaiah 8:19: “When they say to you: ‘Seek the mediums and wizards who whisper and mutter’ — should not a people seek their G-d?” Parallels the Torah’s rejection of trances.
• Jeremiah 10:2: “Learn not the way of the nations.” A broader parallel forbidding foreign occult practices.
• Psalms 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Contrasts divine Torah guidance with deceptive trance rituals.