Is It Safe for Christians to Read Tarot?
Faith, Wisdom, and the Cards: Can Tarot Align with Christian Beliefs?
A Thoughtful and Biblical Examination of Whether Tarot Can Be Compatible with Christian Faith
Many Christians are curious about tarot yet hesitant due to concerns about whether it aligns with biblical teachings. Is it truly forbidden, or is there a deeper spiritual dimension that can harmonize with faith? In this article, we take a balanced and scholarly approach to explore whether tarot is safe for Christians, using scripture, theology, and historical context.
Reframing the Narrative: What is Tarot, Really?
Tarot has long been associated with divination, mysticism, and the occult. However, before jumping to conclusions, it is essential to understand what tarot is and how it has evolved. The tarot is a deck of illustrated cards that can be used as a tool for reflection, spiritual growth, and guidance. While some people use it for fortune-telling, others approach it as a means of deepening their understanding of life and faith.
In the Christian tradition, discernment and wisdom have always been valued. Proverbs 4:7 states, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” If tarot is used as a contemplative practice rather than an act of divination, could it be a valuable tool for reflection and insight?
The Biblical Case: What Does Scripture Say About Tarot?
Addressing the Concerns
Many Christians cite verses such as Deuteronomy 18:10-12, which warns against divination, sorcery, and attempting to communicate with spirits. The concern is that tarot may fall under these prohibitions. However, it is essential to differentiate between fortune-telling (which attempts to predict the future outside of divine revelation) and seeking wisdom through symbols and imagery.
A Different Perspective
There is a biblical precedent for using symbols, parables, and dreams to gain wisdom. The Bible is filled with examples of God speaking through visions, such as Joseph interpreting dreams (Genesis 41) and Daniel discerning signs (Daniel 2). The book of Psalms itself is a deeply symbolic text that invites meditation and contemplation.
If tarot is used as a tool for introspection rather than an attempt to manipulate the divine, does it truly violate biblical principles? Many Christians engage with practices such as journaling, vision boards, and Lectio Divina to connect with their spiritual path. Could tarot, when used responsibly, function in a similar way?
The Spiritual Application: Using Tarot for Reflection and Prayer
A Christ-Centered Approach
For Christians who feel drawn to tarot, it can be used in a way that honors God. Some believers integrate tarot into their prayer life, using it as a way to reflect on scripture, ask for divine guidance, and deepen their relationship with Christ.
For example, one might pull a card and ask, “What does God want me to focus on today?” This can be followed by a prayer or scripture reading that aligns with the message received.
The Wisdom of Key Tarot Archetypes
Certain tarot archetypes offer profound spiritual insights that align with Christian teachings:
- The High Priestess represents divine wisdom, intuition, and inner knowing, much like how Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages believers to trust in the Lord with all their heart.
- The Hierophant symbolizes spiritual tradition and divine guidance, reminding us of Jesus as the ultimate teacher and shepherd of faith.
- The Fool represents faith in divine providence, similar to Matthew 6:25-34, where Jesus urges his followers not to worry but to trust in God’s plan.
- The Magician illustrates divine will manifesting through human action, reflecting Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Each of these cards can serve as a tool for reflection, offering encouragement and guidance in walking a Christ-centered path.
Intent Matters
The key is the intent behind the practice. Tarot, like any tool, can be used for good or for harm. If a Christian approaches tarot with humility, prayer, and a desire to grow spiritually rather than predict the future or control events, is it truly against faith?
Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:23, “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.” If tarot strengthens one’s faith and understanding rather than leading them away from God, should it automatically be dismissed?
A Journey of Faith and Wisdom
For centuries, Christians have sought wisdom through prayer, scripture, and contemplation. Tarot, when used with the right intention, can be another tool in that spiritual journey. Rather than viewing it as inherently evil, perhaps the question should be: How can I use this practice to draw closer to God?
Ultimately, each believer must seek their own discernment. As Romans 14:5 states, “One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” If tarot leads you to greater faith, wisdom, and alignment with Christ’s teachings, then it may not be a matter of prohibition, but of personal conviction.
What are your thoughts? Can tarot be a tool for Christian contemplation, or does it conflict with faith? Let’s continue the conversation. 🙏
