Despite its encompassing wisdom, the Bible does not explicitly mention tarot cards or even playing cards since they postdate the texts. Instead, we must glean an understanding from the Bible’s many teachings about idolatry, fortune-telling, and soothsaying, which are topics that closely relate to the use of tarot cards. These biblical concepts guide us to understand the Christian viewpoint on tarot cards.
Tarot and Divination in the Bible
The Bible warns against divination, the practice of attempting to foretell future events or discover hidden knowledge using supernatural means. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (NIV) states, “Let no one be found among you who…practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens… Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD.”
Using tarot cards to predict the future is considered a form of divination, and such practices are discouraged in the Bible as they are seen to deny faith in God’s wisdom and timing.
Idolatry and Dependency
Another important biblical concept relevant to our discussion is idolatry. In the Ten Commandments, Exodus 20:3 (NIV) is clear: “You shall have no other gods before me.” This makes any behavior that places something or someone in a position above God a form of idolatry.
An over-reliance on tarot cards for guidance can potentially lead to a form of idolatry if users put more faith in these cards’ advice than in God’s wisdom.
Current Christian Views on Tarot Cards
Below the wide Christian umbrella, views on using tarot cards differ. Some Christians see tarot as a helpful tool for introspection, while others view it as incompatible with their beliefs. Pope Benedict XVI, for example, encouraged Christians to place their trust in the Word of God rather than turning to divination practices. He was well-known for his concise and profound statement that “Only those who recognize God know reality.”
These different viewpoints highlight the important role of personal discernment and spiritual guidance when considering practices outside traditional Christian teachings.
Using Tarot Cards with a Faith-Based Perspective
While traditional tarot card use involves fortune-telling, some Christians might use such cards within a faith-based context. These Christians view tarot as symbolic, not predictive, using them to broadly examine their lives and facilitate spiritual growth rather than seeking definitive answers about the future. This approach prioritizes God’s wisdom and guidance over any insights from the cards themselves.
Conclusions on the Bible and Tarot Cards
In understanding the Bible’s perspective on tarot cards, the most essential biblical teachings to consider involve divination and idolatry. While the Bible does not directly address tarot cards, its teachings about these two topics provide clear guidance.
Ultimately, using tarot cards in a way that seeks to predict the future or substitutes God’s wisdom with the wisdom supposedly gained from cards, is discouraged in the Bible. As Christians, it’s vital to remember that all wisdom comes from God, and all decisions should be guided by His Word and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Each Christian must engage with the Holy Spirit in discerning whether certain practices align with their faith, seeking guidance from trusted spiritual leaders and the Word of God itself.
In the end, our hearts and minds should always be pointing towards God, the source of all wisdom and truth. As Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
