A Book Review on "Harry Potter and the Bible" by Richard Abanes

It is such an alarming and scary thing nowadays that occultism, witchcraft and sorcery are being practiced and promoted openly without people being aware of it. Some are being inconspicuously blended with cartoons programs, movies, computer games, books and other reading materials disguising themselves as harmless entertainment. A Christian’s job is to be aware of it, warn others and unveil this evil for what they are – evil, detestable in the sight of God. This is exactly what Richard Abanes did, a Christian author who wrote a great deal about cults, the occult and world religions. In his book "Harry Potter and the Bible," he did a thorough review of the four books in the Harry Potter series, books 1- 4 namely, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This series was written by J.K Rowling, a Scottish author. Most likely because of Abanes’ background, the Harry Potter series is presented in a shocking and horrifying manner as Abanes relates the details of this book to the occult.
This book by Abanes is divided into two sections. Part 1 composes of the summary of each book and Abanes’ review, presented alternately, i.e. Brief Summary of Book 1 then the "Closer Look" into the book and so on. and Part 2 provides an "overview of the many issues relating to Rowling's books: occultism in society, the use ce of fantasy in Christian literature (C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien) and the controversies surrounding the use of Harry Potter in public schools. Also, Part 2 "clearly explains why God is so against occultism and where it is condemned in scripture."

Abanes explained why reading J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter books is harmful to young minds (and adults as well) and what confusing messages are communicated by the characters, particularly Harry Potter who poses as a role model for the kids.
Abanes clearly defines the Harry Potter books as not entirely fictional. Specifically that the characters, events or circumstances and practices of the characters were partly imaginary and partly derived from, (or should I say inspired by) real accounts on witchcraft and occultic practices. Just how much of it is from the real deal, we do not know. That’s what makes it scary and dangerous.
Abanes made mention of J.K Rowling admitting that she had to do a study on witchcraft. And I do know that that’s what good writers do, doing some research to make the story close to being true. And that’s what scary about this. It makes me think, "while people (children in particular) are reading this book, are they not being oriented into being witches/sorcerers themselves?" or on a more subtle note, "Are they not being suggested to embrace witchcraft as an acceptable practice?"
In defense of the HP series, many, including Rowling herself maintains that it is about "battle between good and evil." However, Abanes argues that there is "no battle between good and evil" in these books. Rather, there is a "conflict between a horrific evil (Lord Voldemort and his Death Eaters) and a lesser evil (Harry Potter and the "good" characters)". The "good" characters "routinely steal, lie, cheat, seek revenge with clear consciences." They showed "no remorse" and are even "proud" of it. Based on scriptural standards, Harry Potter and his allies do not qualify to be "good" and morally upright characters just because they do less harm. Their intentions do not justify their means.
Abanes succinctly states, "the Harry Potter series is not morally acceptable with Christianity, which stands in direct opposition to using evil actions to conquer evil. Christians are instructed to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21)."
So what is the danger? According to Abanes, "This positive portrayal (of Harry Potter) might stir in some children an unhealthy curiosity about divination, fortune-tellers and related practices." Many children from across the world have already been deceived by the Harry Potter series, desiring to become witches too and to be able to enter the Hogwarts School. If they realize that Hogwarts school is not real, they might try to find what they want in the real occult. Robert Knight of the Family Research Council says, " Harry Potter gives children an appetite for the occult."
Let us please responsibly watch over our children. Some schools are now teaching ethics and morality using the Harry Potter books. Please pray and keep watch.