Mediumship is one of the most fascinating and often misunderstood aspects of spirituality. In many traditions, it’s seen as a mystical gift—or even something supernatural. But in Spiritism, mediumship is treated with seriousness, logic, and moral purpose.
In The Spirits’ Book, Allan Kardec brings clarity to this topic, presenting mediumship not as a rare phenomenon, but as a natural faculty that serves a divine purpose. Let’s explore what mediumship really is, how it works, and how it fits into the Spiritist worldview.
What Is Mediumship in Spiritism?
In simple terms, mediumship is the ability to perceive and transmit messages from spirits.
Question 459 of The Spirits’ Book
Do spirits influence our thoughts and actions?
Answer: Their influence is greater than you think. Very often, it is they who guide you.
This interaction becomes more active and direct in people who are mediums—those who have a natural sensitivity to the spirit world.
But according to Kardec, mediumship is not a supernatural gift. It’s a human faculty, just like intuition or musical talent. Some people are more naturally inclined to it, but everyone can experience it to some degree.
Types of Mediumship
Spiritism identifies several forms of mediumship, depending on how the person receives or transmits spiritual information. Here are a few of the most common types:
1. Psychographic Mediumship (Automatic Writing)
The spirit communicates by guiding the medium’s hand to write messages. This was Kardec’s preferred method for compiling the Spiritist Codification.
2. Psychophonic Mediumship (Speaking Medium)
The spirit uses the medium’s voice to speak. The medium may or may not be conscious of what is said.
3. Intuitive Mediumship
The spirit transmits ideas or impressions, which the medium interprets mentally or emotionally.
4. Clairvoyance and Clairaudience
The medium sees or hears spirits, either visually or through internal perception.
5. Healing Mediumship
Through the help of benevolent spirits, the medium transmits spiritual energy for physical or emotional healing.
Each type of mediumship requires training, moral development, and humility to be used safely and effectively.
The Purpose of Mediumship
In Spiritism, the goal of mediumship is not entertainment, prediction, or personal gain. Its true purpose is:
- To educate and enlighten humanity
- To comfort and guide those in pain or doubt
- To help spirits evolve by expressing themselves and receiving support
- To be a channel of love, justice, and truth
Kardec emphasizes that moral intention is more important than technical ability. A medium must strive to be a servant of good, not a showman.
Can Mediumship Be Dangerous?
Yes—if misunderstood or misused. Spiritism warns that:
- Lower spirits can deceive, manipulate, or create confusion.
- Mediums without proper guidance may suffer emotional, mental, or spiritual imbalance.
- Using mediumship for money, fame, or ego opens the door to unbalanced or misleading influences.
That’s why mediumship in Spiritist practice is always:
- Free of charge
- Performed in a group or supportive environment
- Centered around prayer, study, and ethical behavior
When treated with respect and humility, mediumship becomes a powerful instrument of spiritual service.
The Role of the Medium
The medium is not “chosen” by spirits as a special being. Instead, they are someone with:
- A natural sensitivity
- A mission to serve and educate
- The responsibility to develop morally and emotionally
Mediums are often born with specific spiritual commitments. But they also have free will—they can accept, ignore, or distort their role.
Spiritism encourages mediums to engage in:
- Moral self-improvement
- Regular study of Spiritist doctrine
- Meditation and prayer
- Participation in balanced study groups
The stronger the medium’s moral foundation, the clearer and safer the communications they receive.
Mediumship and Personal Growth
Mediumship is not just about transmitting messages—it’s a path for the medium’s own spiritual evolution.
Through the practice of responsible mediumship, one can:
- Deepen compassion
- Understand life and death more clearly
- Develop humility and detachment
- Strengthen connection with spiritual guides
It’s a profound journey of inner transformation, as much as it is a service to others.
Are All Mediums Spiritists?
No. Many people around the world have mediumistic faculties but may interpret or practice them through different religious, cultural, or personal lenses.
What makes Spiritist mediumship unique is its:
- Scientific approach
- Moral foundation
- Focus on education and progress
- Rejection of superstition and sensationalism
A person doesn’t need to be Spiritist to be a medium—but studying Spiritism offers a safe, structured, and deeply ethical framework.
Final Reflection: A Sacred Responsibility
In Spiritism, mediumship is a sacred responsibility, not a power. It is a means by which the invisible world connects with the visible, offering guidance, healing, and inspiration.
If you have mediumistic tendencies, Spiritism invites you to develop them with knowledge, love, and humility. And even if you are not a medium, understanding mediumship helps you see the world—and yourself—with greater depth and reverence.
The world is not divided into seen and unseen. It is united in love, evolution, and purpose.
Learning to dance through life’s challenges 🦋 | Crafting stories, sharing light ✨. Transforming lives with purpose and clarity.
