Rebellion is the spirit of witchcraft

Pwitchcraft in 1 Samuel 15:23, but the Bible does not say that every form of “controlling spirit” is itself rebellion. The meaning depends on what you mean by “controlling spirit.”

Samuel told Saul:

“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.”

— 1 Samuel 15:23 (KJV)

Biblical principle

If a person deliberately tries to control another person through occult or spiritual power, that would fall under practices the Bible condemns as witchcraft/sorcery.

But if by “controlling spirit” you mean a person trying to control others through manipulation, domination, intimidation, or coercion, the Bible condemns such behavior in various ways, but we should be careful about automatically calling the person or behavior a “spirit.”

The biblical pattern is:

God's Spirit → leads, guides, convicts, and produces willing obedience.

Occult practices → seek supernatural power/control apart from God.

Human manipulation/domination → attempts to control people rather than serve and love them.

Jesus taught His disciples:

“Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister.”

— Matthew 20:26 (KJV)

So, biblically, seeking to dominate or control people is contrary to Christ-like servant leadership, while 1 Samuel 15:23 specifically compares rebellion and stubborn disobedience toward God with witchcraft and idolatry.