What does the Bible say about the Witch of Endor?

In 1 Samuel 28, we find the story of the Witch of Endor, a woman with a familiar spirit whom King Saul approached in desperation to summon the deceased prophet Samuel. Saul had previously expelled such practitioners from the land, but in his time of need, he turned to this forbidden source. The episode underscores the futility of seeking answers and guidance outside of God. Saul’s actions reflect a deep-seated fear and abandonment by the Lord, highlighting the severe consequences of his earlier disobedience. The witch, seeing Samuel's spirit, cried out in fear, which suggests that she encountered a greater power than she typically engaged with.