Tarot
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The Tarot is a deck of cards that originated in the mid-15th century in various parts of Europe, primarily used for playing games. However, from the late 18th century onwards, Tarot cards have been used for divination and as a tool for gaining insight into the past, present, or future by those who practice the occult. This practice is often associated with fortune-telling and is considered a form of divination.

Biblical Perspective on Divination

The Bible explicitly warns against practices such as divination, which are seen as attempts to gain knowledge or power apart from God. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12 , it is written: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD; because of these same detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you."

The use of Tarot cards for divination falls under the category of practices that are condemned in these passages. The Bible consistently emphasizes reliance on God for guidance and wisdom, rather than seeking knowledge through occult means. Isaiah 8:19 states, "When they say to you, 'Consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter,' should not a people consult their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?"

Spiritual Implications

Engaging in Tarot card readings is often seen as opening oneself up to spiritual influences that are not aligned with the teachings of the Bible. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, warns believers to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). This suggests that Christians are to be vigilant against spiritual deception and to seek protection through faith and adherence to God's Word.

Historical Context

Historically, the Tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana includes 22 cards that are often seen as representing significant life themes or spiritual lessons, while the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards divided into four suits. Each card is rich in symbolism and is interpreted in various ways by those who practice Tarot reading.

Christian Response

From a biblical standpoint, Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom and guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the counsel of the Holy Spirit. James 1:5 advises, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." This underscores the belief that God is the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding, and that believers should turn to Him rather than to practices like Tarot reading.

In summary, while the Tarot has historical and cultural significance, its use in divination is contrary to biblical teachings. Christians are called to rely on God for guidance and to avoid practices that seek knowledge or power apart from Him.
Topical Bible Verses
Leviticus 19:31
Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.
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Leviticus 20:6
And the soul that turns after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.
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2 Thessalonians 2:9
Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,
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Galatians 5:20
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, jealousies, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
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Revelation 22:15
For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and fornicators, and murderers, and idolaters, and whoever loves and makes a lie.
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Revelation 21:8
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
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Resources
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Questions about the End Times (All) | GotQuestions.org

Predict: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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