Are Tarot Cards Evil or Dangerous? What The Bible Says

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Learn if it’s sinful for Christians to use tarot cards

Co-authored by Olivia Woodford and Raven Minyard, BA

Last Updated: May 20, 2024 Fact Checked

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• Are tarot cards evil?
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• What are tarot cards?
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• Should Christians use tarot cards?
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• Tarot Misconceptions
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• Video

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While tarot cards have become a popular form of divination for the spiritual, they often get a bad rap with the religious. Many Christians believe tarot cards are evil or sinful, but is this actually supported by the Bible? Keep reading as we teach you everything you need to know about tarot cards, what the Bible says about them, and whether Christians should use them. Plus, learn common misconceptions about tarot cards and how they’re actually used.

Are tarot cards sinful?

Because tarot cards are a form of divination, which is condemned by the Bible, most Christians believe tarot cards are a sin and avoid contact with them. However, some Christians do not believe the cards are evil, so using them is ultimately a choice based on your personal beliefs and convictions.

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Section 1 of 4:

Are tarot cards evil?

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1. 1
   The Bible doesn’t mention tarot cards, but it condemns divination. The earliest known usage of tarot cards dates back to 15th century Europe, so tarot cards didn’t exist when the Bible was written. However, because tarot cards are a form of divination, most Christians include them in the Bible’s references to the occult, which is forbidden according to Scripture (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).

   • Divination comes from a Latin word that means “from the gods,” similar to “divine” and “divinity.” Because of this, it is interpreted to mean that you’re looking for answers from false gods rather than trusting God with your future.
2. 2
   The Book of Enoch states that occultism comes from fallen angels. In the Book of Enoch, a non-canonical writing quoted in the New Testament, it is said that fallen angels taught humanity how to use charms, enchantments, astrology, divination, and mind-altering drugs. Because of this, the early church was very aware of occultism. Here are some examples of where these practices are mentioned:

   • “The demons were the inventors of astrology, soothsaying, divination…oracles, necromancy, the arts of magic, and whatever evil practices men exercise in addition to those things.” (Lactantius)
   • “Magic and sorcery derive their power from evil demons…” (Origen)
   • “My child, do not be an observer of omens, for it leads the way to idolatry. Likewise, do not be an enchanter or an astrologer.” (Didache)
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Section 2 of 4:

What are tarot cards?

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1. Tarot cards are cards meant to divine wisdom and guidance. A tarot deck features 78 cards, each with a unique image and meaning. When shuffled and laid out into a spread, the cards are meant to reveal any personal challenges and how to overcome them, as well as insight into what the future might hold.

   • Tarot readings are focused on self-awareness and self-discovery. They are not associated with evil, and they do not invoke black magic, demons, or other spirits and entities.
   • Because tarot cards are a form of divination, many Christians believe using them is sinful, while many nonbelievers see nothing wrong with the cards and do not believe they’re evil.

Section 3 of 4:

Should Christians use tarot cards?

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1. Most Christians do not support the use of tarot cards. Because using tarot cards is a form of divination, most Christians believe they are sinful. Many believe divination comes from demons or fallen angels, so they believe tarot cards are evil and that Christians should not interact with them, or other forms of divination or the occult, in any way.

   • That being said, not all Christians believe this, and some even consider themselves Christian witches and use tarot cards in their practice.
   • It is ultimately up to you and your personal convictions to decide how you feel about tarot cards and if you should use them as a Christian.
   • If you believe tarot cards are sinful and discover another Christian has been using them, remember to treat the person with love and kindness. Do not assume they’re evil, and kindly let them know why you’re concerned.
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Section 4 of 4:

Clarifying Tarot Cards Misconceptions

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1. 1
   Tarot cards do not actually predict the future. Many people who do not use tarot cards believe they predict the future with certainty. However, most tarot readers will say that the cards are a tool for self-awareness and guidance. They offer insight into the present and potential paths for the future, but the future is ultimately shaped and determined by our actions and choices.
2. 2
   Tarot cards are not used to communicate with demons or spirits. While some Christians may believe tarot cards come from demons, tarot cards are not like Ouija boards; they aren’t used to communicate with spirits or entities of any kind. Using tarot cards will not invite dark spirits into your home. In general, they’re solely used to provide insight into potential challenges and offer advice to overcome them.
3. 3
   Tarot readers are not psychics. Tarot requires strong intuition, empathy, and an understanding of symbolism, but it does not require psychic abilities. Tarot readers are not focused on making predictions about the future but instead provide insight to encourage self-reflection and personal growth.
4. 4
   Tarot readings do not focus on negativity. Many people fear tarot because they believe the readings only reveal negative outcomes or bad news. While tarot readings can highlight challenges you might face, skilled readers will also offer advice, strengths, and opportunities to overcome them. Tarot readings are meant to help you make an informed decision, not doom you to an ominous future.
5. 5
   Tarot readers come from various religious backgrounds. While tarot cards might be most closely associated with witchcraft and paganism, it isn’t tied to a specific religion or spiritual belief. Tarot is a secular practice that focuses on personal growth rather than religion or spirituality.
6. 6
   Tarot cards are not an ancient pagan practice. Tarot was developed from the Italian card game tarocchi in the medieval period. While creators may have been inspired by things like alchemy and Hermeticism, the cards were created within a firmly Christian worldview. They even feature Christian concepts such as the Devil and Judgment.
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