In my two decades of experience guiding my congregation on matters of faith and spirituality, I have encountered numerous questions about various practices and beliefs. One topic that often arises is the use of Tarot cards, a form of divination that has recently gained popularity. Many people wonder what the Bible says about Tarot cards and whether they can be reconciled with Christian beliefs.
This post aims to discuss the biblical perspective on Tarot cards. We will examine the origins of Tarot cards, their purpose, and the biblical principles that can help us better understand this practice. While the Bible does not specifically mention the word Tarot cards, we can find valuable insights within its pages that shed light on the subject.
The Origin and Purpose of Tarot Cards
To understand Tarot cards in the context of the Bible, we must first explore their origin and purpose. Tarot cards are comprised of 78 cards that are separated into two groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. These cards are often used for divination, where a reader interprets the symbols and images on the cards to gain insights into the past, present, and future.
It’s important to note that Tarot cards have a complex history and were initially used as playing cards in the 15th century. They evolved over time into a tool for divination and spiritual insight. Many practitioners of Tarot believe that the cards can provide guidance, self-discovery, and spiritual enlightenment.
What Does the Bible Say About Divination?
The Bible is evident in its stance on divination. In various passages, it warns against the practice of divination and seeks to guide believers away from seeking supernatural knowledge through means other than God.
One of these passages is found in Deuteronomy 18:10-12, which mentions various forbidden practices, including divination. This passage warns against divination, which encompasses multiple practices, including Tarot card readings. The Bible emphasizes that God alone should be our source of guidance and knowledge.
Why Should We Avoid Practices That Involve Tarot Cards?
Tarot cards rely on symbolism and interpretation, often leaving room for subjective and misleading readings. The Bible cautions against deceptive practices in Colossians 2:8, warning believers not to be “taken captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy. Engaging with Tarot cards can lead to self-deception and undermine one’s trust in God’s truth.
Tarot card readings often lack accountability, unlike seeking counsel from a pastor or a trusted spiritual mentor. Proverbs 11:14 advises that a nation falls with a lack of guidance, but victory is won through many advisers. The Bible emphasizes seeking counsel from individuals who are accountable to God’s Word and the church community, ensuring a solid foundation for spiritual guidance.
Regular use of Tarot cards can lead to dependency on external sources for guidance and decision-making. This dependency can hinder personal responsibility and self-reliance. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises to trust in the Lord. We are called to rely on God and develop a personal relationship with Him to discern His will.
As Christians, our primary source of guidance and insight should always be God through prayer, meditation on His Word, and seeking His wisdom. The Bible encourages us to keep our faith and trust in the Lord with all our hearts. We must not lean not on our own understanding.
James 1:5 states that we must seek God for wisdom, as He will generously give it to us. This underscores the importance of turning to God for answers rather than relying on external practices like Tarot cards. God is the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance in our lives.
Discernment and Avoiding the Occult
Christians need to exercise discernment when it comes to practices like Tarot card readings. The Bible consistently warns against involvement in the occult, including divination practices.
In Galatians 5:19-21, the apostle Paul delineates what he terms as “the works of the flesh.” Among these works, we find the word “sorcery,” which is directly associated with divination. This inclusion within the list of works of the flesh signifies its incompatibility with the teachings of Christ and the Christian way of life.
The Bible acknowledges the existence of spiritual forces. It warns against dabbling in the occult, as it can open doors to evil spiritual influences (Ephesians 6:12). Discernment helps Christians recognize and resist these forces.
As Christians, we are called to avoid any practices or activities that involve the occult or go against the teachings of Christ. Discernment allows us to assess whether a particular practice or belief aligns with the teachings of the Bible. Anything conflicting with Scripture should be avoided.
Bottom Line
While the Bible does not particularly mention Tarot cards, it provides clear guidance on divination and seeking supernatural knowledge through means other than God. As Christians, we should be cautious and discerning in our choices and avoid practices that may lead us away from our faith.
Instead of turning to Tarot cards for guidance, we should rely on God for wisdom and guidance through prayer, meditation on His Word, and seeking His will for our lives. The Bible emphasizes the importance of trusting the Lord and relying on Him alone for our spiritual journey.
As a pastor with 20 years of experience, I encourage my congregation and readers to always align their beliefs and practices with the teachings of the Bible. In doing so, we can walk in the light of God’s truth and find proper guidance and peace in our lives.
