Does the Bible Condemn Using Tarot Cards?

Everyone, it seems, wants to know what the future holds, both personally and for their loved (or hated) ones. To that end, libraries, brick and mortar stores, and internet sites abound with occult books, movies, games, music, clubs, and devices which promise to help a questioner find answers to their questions. Many children and adults dabble in practices which involve such items as Ouija boards and tarot cards “just for fun,” thinking they are harmless. But they’re not, either for Christians or those who aren’t.

He smooths all the bumps as He teaches us through His Word and comforts us with His Holy Spirit. We are involved in serious kingdom business. The devil seeks to steal and kill and destroy (John 10:10). He is so sure of his own power, he attempted to destroy the Lord Jesus’ ministry (Matthew 4).

Those who love Jesus Christ have spiritual discernment (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:10) and the Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:16, we “have the mind of Christ.” God made sure we are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9-11, 16, 37-39; Ephesians 1:13); no one and nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:35, 39).

What Are Tarot Cards?

Tarot cards actually began as regular playing cards and were based on a Medieval Italian deck of cards. Writer Tim Husband shares their early uses: “Tarot is a game of trick taking, as the many trump cards clearly indicate, and even though there are many variations (mostly minor), the rules of the game likely have not changed significantly since the 15th century. The present-day association of tarot with fortune-telling and the occult gained currency only in the 19th century and has nothing to do with the medieval tarot cards.”

The Best tarot card decks for beginners. 

According to Jack Ashcraft on Christianity.com, “The main use of tarot cards is for divination purposes. New Age conferences and even local town festivals frequently feature a tarot card reader who, for a modest fee, will give you insight into your love life, finances, family problems, potential spouse, or any other questions you might have to ask.”

What Does the Bible Say About Tarot Cards or Predicting the Future?

The Bible does not mention tarot cards specifically, but God’s Word does speak of the intents and actions which would include the use of such evil devices.

Let’s take a look at what the Bible says about the forbidden spiritual practices in which people involve themselves: 

Leviticus 19:31 states, “Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.” Almighty God was reminding His people again and again that He is the LORD God. To fall sway or give credence to mediums and familiar sprits is an attempt to displace God as LORD. God would cut off any who turn to them (Leviticus 20:6). Familiar spirits are said to be those who are at the beck and call of the sorcerer.

The sin is so grievous, God ordered every medium or one with a familiar spirit to be put to death by stoning (Leviticus 20:27).