This article explores several topics related to the warnings many Christians receive from their pastors about avoiding tarot cards and other divination tools. As scholars of various spiritual and divine teachings, we are naturally interested in what the Bible has to offer, while also understanding its secular history and the political dynamics that shaped its spread as Christianity grew. Many Christians we’ve encountered have labeled tarot cards and divination tools as “demonic” or “evil.” In response, we have sought to understand the origins of these beliefs and why certain Christians consider these tools forbidden, despite their proven healing benefits and their ability to help individuals connect with the spiritual realm. This article examines the differences between Shamanism and Christianity, what the Bible says about divination, the political reasons behind the condemnation of tarot cards, how Christianity historically suppressed ancient healing practices and shamanic cultures, how Jesus may have viewed divination based on his teachings, and how to engage with Christians who view tarot cards as evil, even in light of evidence to the contrary.
In Concrete Shamanism, we utilize various divination tools and spiritual practices for healing, honoring the ancient traditions that connect us directly to the divine. Shamanism is fundamentally about healing, not about controlling others’ behavior or spirits. Yet, many Christians have expressed concern over the use of tarot cards and divination, claiming that such practices are forbidden by the Bible and even labeling them as “demonic.” This raises a critical question: if these healing practices have been in use for tens of thousands of years and were part of humanity’s original connection to the divine, why would God forbid them now? If they originated from divine guidance, as shamans believed, it seems counterintuitive that they would be deemed unacceptable today.
Shamanism Vs. Christianity
Shamanism is recognized as one of the world’s oldest spiritual practices, predating Christianity by approximately 50,000 years according to many historical scholars. It emerged independently across various cultures around the globe, suggesting a universal connection to the divine that transcended geographical boundaries. Ancient shamans were often regarded as some of the first to “see the light of God,” serving as intermediaries between the physical world and the spiritual realms. Their practices centered on healing and fostering harmony with the natural world.
In contrast, Christianity, which developed in the 1st century CE from Second Temple Judaism, has become the world’s largest religion, with over 2.4 billion followers. Based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, Christianity accounts for approximately 31.2% of the global population. However, unlike shamanism, Christianity introduced structured doctrines and moral codes that often dictated the spiritual and behavioral conduct of its followers. This divergence highlights a fundamental difference: shamanism emphasizes personal healing and spiritual exploration, whereas Christianity, especially in its institutional form, often places greater focus on collective belief and behavior.
The prohibition of divination in the Christian Bible, often cited as a spiritual concern, might indeed have political motivations behind it. To understand this, we need to explore how divination and spiritual practices were treated in biblical times and how political systems were intertwined with religious control.
Are We Getting The Whole Picture?
The Bible, as commonly known today, particularly in versions like the King James Bible, is not the complete compilation of all early Christian and Jewish texts. Many books, such as the Book of Enoch, The Gospel of Thomas, and other gnostic writings, were excluded from the final canon, often due to political, theological, or doctrinal reasons. These excised texts provide different perspectives on spirituality, Christ’s teachings, and the nature of the divine, offering potentially transformative insights that were kept from the masses. Relying solely on the Bible for religious dogma is, therefore, limited and somewhat shortsighted, as it does not present the full story. What might be missing are alternative spiritual practices, deeper insights into Jesus’ teachings, and perhaps even doctrines that challenge the authority of religious institutions. By ignoring these censored texts, one risks accepting a filtered version of spirituality, tailored for control, rather than exploring the full breadth of divine wisdom.
The Book of Enoch and The Gospel of Thomas offer unique spiritual insights that may have contributed to their exclusion from the Bible. The Book of Enoch delves deeply into the concept of fallen angels, known as the Watchers, who descended to Earth, taught forbidden knowledge to humanity, and interbred with humans. It presents a cosmic view of good versus evil and introduces a narrative of celestial rebellion that differs from the more sanitized version of angels in the canonical Bible. This book’s focus on esoteric knowledge and divine judgment likely made it too controversial for inclusion in mainstream Christianity.
The Gospel of Thomas, on the other hand, is a collection of sayings attributed to Jesus that emphasize direct, personal enlightenment rather than reliance on the institutional Church. Jesus’ teachings in this gospel suggest that the “Kingdom of God” is found within each person, encouraging self-discovery and inner wisdom over external authority. This message undermines the hierarchical structure of the Church, which may have contributed to its censorship. Both texts challenge the control and dogma of institutional religion, offering a more mystical and individualized path to the divine—ideas that were likely seen as threatening to early Christian leaders seeking to establish a unified doctrine.
Divination And Tarot Cards in the Bible
Tarot cards weren’t around in Biblical times. But the Bible explicitly forbids divination in several places, such as in Deuteronomy 18:10-12:
“Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD…” Deuteronomy 18:10-12
The practice of divination was common in ancient societies, including the early cultures surrounding the Israelites. These methods were used to seek guidance from spiritual forces, ancestors, or deities. However, the Bible’s prohibition of these practices could be interpreted as more than a spiritual boundary—it reflects a desire to centralize religious authority and restrict how people accessed the divine.
What Does God Really Want?
Divination tools offer a direct connection to God, spirits, and angels, allowing for personal spiritual insight. If a political or religious entity wanted to dismantle generational healing practices, one of the most effective methods would be to declare these practices “detestable” or an “abomination” in the eyes of God. However, we believe that no one can truly understand God’s will without deep, personal introspection. When Christians rely solely on the teachings of pastors for their spiritual development, they are, in effect, outsourcing their spiritual growth in a way that diminishes their personal connection to the divine.
One thought experiment we often use is to ask, “Can you tell us what God wants without quoting a book?” Almost no one can answer that question, and even we don’t claim to know what God wants with absolute certainty. However, the use of divination tools enables us to engage with God directly, without intermediaries. Contrary to some Christian beliefs, tarot cards do not predict the future, summon evil spirits, or reveal hidden secrets. Instead, they allow individuals to explore deeper aspects of themselves, bringing awareness to the complexities of life, spirituality, and personal growth.
When used properly, divination practices are not about games or manipulation. They are a way to examine one’s life, expose hidden aspects of the self, and fine-tune intentions in alignment with spiritual growth. Through thoughtful reflection, divination can help people live more morally and consciously, fostering spiritual development and a deeper understanding of themselves in relation to the divine.
Political Context: Priestly Class and Divine Kingship
In ancient societies, religious and political power were often indistinguishable. Leaders, such as kings and priests, derived authority by claiming divine favor or guidance. By limiting divination to sanctioned channels (e.g., priests and prophets), political rulers could maintain control over the spiritual narrative and consolidate their power.
For example, if ordinary people or “unapproved” individuals could access divine messages through methods like divination, it would diminish the control of the priestly class and the rulers they supported. The priesthood was often aligned with the ruling class to establish a divine order, where God supposedly chose kings to rule. This idea underpinned the political structures of the time. As highlighted in Romans 13:1, it reads:
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” Romans 13:1
The centralization of religious power reinforced political power. If only priests or prophets connected to the political leadership could speak for God, the ruling class maintained dominance, unchallenged by alternative spiritual practices. Divination posed a threat to this system because it offered a personal, decentralized approach to understanding divine will.
Divination, Tarot Cards and the Bible’s Broader Context
While the Bible forbids divination, the practice was common and accepted in earlier Israelite history. For instance, 1 Samuel 28 recounts how King Saul, before a battle, consulted the Witch of Endor to summon the prophet Samuel’s spirit. This episode shows that even anointed kings sometimes sought out prohibited practices when traditional methods failed them. It reflects the tension between official religious doctrine and the practical needs of leadership.
However, the control of divination was essential for political reasons. If individuals could interpret God’s will independently, they might challenge the authority of the priesthood or monarchy. In this sense, the Bible’s prohibition of divination can be seen as an effort to establish a uniform religious-political system that empowered the elite by delegitimizing any unsanctioned spiritual practices.
Divination as a Threat to the Power Structure
In modern times, Christian groups often label tarot cards, astrology, and other forms of divination as “demonic,” asserting that they pull people away from the Christian God. However, this reaction could be traced back to political roots: such practices threaten the religious institutions that have traditionally mediated the relationship between individuals and the divine. By labeling these tools as dangerous or sinful, religious authorities protect their role as the sole interpreters of God’s will.
In Concrete Shamanism, we view divination differently. Rather than being a gateway to dark forces, tools like tarot cards or the I Ching are methods for deepening personal insight and accessing the divine directly, without intermediaries. In this worldview, God speaks to each person in many ways, and divination is one of those channels. There is no need for a priest or mediator because we are all capable of connecting with the divine.
The Destruction Of Ancient Spiritual Healing Practices
The spread of Christianity throughout Europe and other regions of the world led to the systematic dismantling of many ancient healing practices, including shamanism, in favor of state-sanctioned methods that were easier to control. Shamanism, with its emphasis on personal connection to the spiritual realm, direct healing from the divine, and rituals deeply rooted in nature, stood in contrast to the hierarchical structure of the emerging Christian Church. As Christianity expanded, these practices were often labeled as pagan or demonic, pushing them underground or completely erasing them from cultural memory. The Church positioned itself as the sole intermediary between humanity and God, establishing religious authority over healing, knowledge, and spirituality.
Yet, while ancient practices were suppressed and the masses were encouraged—or forced—to adhere to Church-sanctioned doctrines, many rulers and elites continued to secretly engage with the very mystical practices they publicly condemned. Kings, queens, and even clerics in positions of power sought out the wisdom of shamans, alchemists, and mystics in secret. These rulers recognized the power of these ancient healing and spiritual methods but understood that the Church’s consolidation of power relied on the masses being kept ignorant of such practices. This allowed the elite to maintain their positions of authority while benefiting from the wisdom and techniques preserved from pre-Christian traditions.
The Vatican, in particular, is believed to hold vast collections of mystical and ancient texts within its secret archives—documents that include knowledge of esoteric teachings, pagan rituals, and practices that date back to pre-Christian civilizations. These texts are rarely accessible to the public because they contain information that contradicts many tenets of Catholicism or would challenge the Church’s historical authority. By keeping these texts hidden, the Church was able to shape the spiritual narrative, ensuring that the masses remained loyal to Christian teachings while the elite had access to deeper, more ancient knowledge. This secrecy highlights the tension between public religious control and private spiritual exploration, which has persisted throughout history.
The Many Biblical Contradictions
The Bible forbids many things that modern Christians often ignore. For instance, Leviticus 11 forbids eating animals without split hooves or that don’t chew the cud, like pigs. It also forbids mixing fabrics (Leviticus 19:19), planting different kinds of seeds together, and commands not to touch the carcass of a dead animal. Yet, many of these laws are not adhered to by contemporary Christians. This selective adherence to biblical commandments shows that cultural, political, and social evolution shapes how the Bible is interpreted.
This flexibility indicates that the Bible is a living document, shaped and reshaped by the needs of political and religious powers throughout history. The prohibition on divination might be seen as an effort to stifle spiritual freedom and maintain control over how individuals connect with the divine.
The Bible also prohibits homosexuality, often interpreted as a moral or spiritual decree. However, as mentioned before, there could be political reasons behind this as well. In ancient Roman culture, for example, homosexual relationships among soldiers were common and strengthened bonds within the military ranks. Prohibiting such relationships could have been a way for the early Christian Church to assert a new social order, one that distanced itself from Roman practices and reinforced heteronormative family structures, which were more controllable and aligned with the evolving political needs of early Christian societies.
How Would Jesus Feel About The Use Of Tarot Cards?
If we consider the teachings of Jesus as presented in both the canonical Gospels and alternative texts like The Gospel of Thomas, it seems likely that his perspective on divination or tarot cards would be more nuanced than many modern interpretations suggest. Jesus often emphasized inner wisdom, personal spiritual connection, and the ability of each individual to access the “Kingdom of God” within themselves. In The Gospel of Thomas, for instance, he teaches, “The kingdom of God is inside you, and it is outside of you… When you come to know yourselves, then you will be known.” This profound statement suggests that Jesus valued personal enlightenment and direct experience of the divine over rigid adherence to external rules or religious institutions.
Given this emphasis on inner wisdom, it is possible that Jesus might view divination tools like tarot cards as a method of fostering personal reflection and spiritual growth. Tarot cards, much like the parables Jesus used, encourage introspection, helping individuals explore their inner landscape and connect with deeper truths. Jesus was known for challenging the rigid religious structures of his time, often criticizing the Pharisees and other religious leaders for focusing too much on rules and not enough on the spirit behind them. He consistently prioritized compassion, love, and personal transformation over blind adherence to dogma. Therefore, if tarot or divination helped individuals connect more authentically with the divine, it is not far-fetched to think that Jesus would be open to such practices.
Moreover, the Jesus portrayed in non-canonical texts like The Gospel of Thomas or even The Book of Enoch might recognize divination as part of the broader spectrum of human spirituality, which has existed for millennia before Christianity. Shamanic and mystical traditions, which use divination as a means of understanding the spiritual world, are aligned with the belief that God communicates through signs, symbols, and nature. Jesus himself performed miracles and acts of healing that were often viewed as mystical by those around him. If these actions were accepted as part of his divine mission, it stands to reason that tools that foster spiritual growth, like tarot cards, could similarly be seen as means of divine communication.
Ultimately, Jesus’ message was one of love, compassion, and seeking deeper truth. If people are using divination today in a way that brings them closer to self-awareness, healing, and connection with the divine, it seems that Jesus would encourage such sincere pursuits of spiritual growth, rather than condemn them based on fear or misunderstanding. His teachings often transcended the boundaries of religious dogma, and he may have approached divination with the same openness, focusing on the heart’s intention rather than the method itself.
Being Judged By Christians: Isn’t It Ironic?
It is ironic that Christians, who often emphasize the belief that “only God can judge,” frequently have no problem judging or even persecuting others in God’s name. This contradiction reflects a deeper issue within religious zeal, where some individuals believe they possess the authority to know what God wants. Eckhart Tolle, in his book A New Earth, discusses the concept of “being right and making wrong,” where a person who believes they are virtuous or uniquely privy to God’s will can become dangerous. When individuals think they are acting on divine authority, they may commit great harm, justifying it as righteous. History is filled with examples of persecution, violence, and intolerance committed by those who believed they were carrying out God’s work, demonstrating how the perception of moral superiority can lead to grave evils done in the name of good.
As scholars of many spiritual practices, we understand that Christianity, while meaningful to many, often appeals to those who have been in desperate situations—homelessness, addiction, or severe life crises—because it offers a simple, immediate solution. Christianity provides community, a clear moral framework, and a sense of belonging, which can be especially attractive to those seeking direction or healing for the first time. For many, this initial experience becomes the totality of their spiritual life, and they may stop seeking anything beyond the church. However, Christianity is just one of countless spiritual systems across the world. While it is practiced by over 2.4 billion people, many other religions and spiritual practices exist, often more complex and less restrictive in their approach to the divine. In this sense, Christianity can sometimes limit spiritual exploration, discouraging alternative methods of connecting with God or deeper self-reflection.
Christianity’s focus on conversion further reinforces this limitation. Many Christian sects are driven by the desire to grow their congregations, often leading to a rejection of spiritual practices outside their belief system. Alternative views about how to access the divine, such as using tarot or other forms of divination, are often labeled as “demonic” or “evil.” This exclusionary approach stems from a fear-based model of salvation, where Christians believe it is their duty to “save” others from hell. This mindset can make Christians feel justified in doing almost anything to convert someone to their faith, believing they are rescuing souls from eternal damnation. While charity and outreach efforts are often a part of Christian practice, there is frequently an underlying agenda to bring individuals into the church, sometimes by targeting those at their lowest points in life.
This fear-based spirituality was embedded in Christianity from its early days, and it has proven to be effective in expanding the faith. Yet, it has also led to harmful behaviors. Throughout history, Christians have ostracized, scapegoated, bullied, and even resorted to violence in the name of God. Under the belief that they are doing God’s work, they may dehumanize or condemn those who hold different beliefs. While many Christians have contributed greatly to society through charity and acts of kindness, there are also countless stories of former Christians or those who have been harmed by Christian persecution. For these individuals, the religion that claims to follow a God of love and forgiveness has often been a source of suffering and abuse. The reality is that a great deal of harm has been done in the name of God, even by those who believe they are acting with good intentions.
Misunderstood And Overly Simplistic Worldview
Christians who are concerned about the use of divination tools like tarot cards often misunderstand their purpose and significance. These tools are not inherently demonic or anti-Christian, nor do they interfere with any particular religious belief system. Instead, they can serve as instruments for personal reflection, spiritual growth, and deepening one’s connection to the divine. For some, tarot and other divination practices provide a means of introspection, offering symbols and archetypes that help clarify life’s challenges and guide individuals toward wisdom and healing. In this sense, they complement, rather than oppose, a person’s spiritual journey.
It’s important to recognize that the way each person interacts with God and the Divine is a deeply personal and private choice. Divination tools do not need to conflict with Christian teachings, as they can be used with reverence and respect for one’s relationship with God. For many, divination is a way of seeking answers, understanding themselves better, and opening up to the guidance that already exists within and around them. Christians who explore the teachings of Jesus deeply would realize that Jesus emphasized love, inner wisdom, and direct connection with God over rigid adherence to rules or condemnation of others. The use of tools like tarot cards does not negate one’s faith but can coexist peacefully within a broader spiritual practice.
When a Christian admonishes the use of tarot or divination tools, it often stems from a lack of understanding or exploration of both the Bible and the teachings of Jesus. The Bible itself contains many mystical elements, including dreams, visions, and signs from God, which are forms of divine communication not so different from modern divination practices. If a Christian confronts or judges harshly for using these tools, it is essential to respond with love rather than defensiveness. Engaging in arguments or accepting their judgment only perpetuates division. Instead, we can choose to embody the love that Jesus taught, offering compassion and understanding while recognizing that everyone is on their own spiritual journey.
By loving them back and not getting into arguments, we uphold the essence of what Jesus taught: to love others unconditionally and not to judge. Their reactions are often based on misinformation or fear, and it is not our role to convince them otherwise. By standing in love and peace, we remain aligned with our truth and allow space for others to explore their beliefs without confrontation. Ultimately, our connection to the Divine is personal, and how we choose to engage with spiritual tools like tarot is part of our unique relationship with God. By responding with love, we honor both our path and theirs.
The Bible’s prohibitions on divination and other practices can be understood not just as spiritual directives but as tools of political control. By restricting access to divine messages, the priestly class and political rulers maintained authority over the people. In contrast, Concrete Shamanism holds that there are no divisions between individuals and the divine. Divination, in our experience, is a means of personal spiritual exploration, allowing for direct communication with God and the universe. By embracing such practices, we reclaim the power to connect with the divine in our own ways, without intermediaries or restrictions.
Ultimately, It’s Up To You
We are not here to tell Christians what they can or cannot do, even though many have called us evil, wrong, or demonic for our beliefs. We respect everyone’s right to choose their own spiritual path and practice the religion that resonates with them. We support anyone in their spiritual development, regardless of whether we agree with their views. Just as we would never enter a church to declare that all of their teachings are wrong, we honor the fact that others may find meaning in beliefs that we have personally moved beyond. Jesus has been a profound teacher for us, and based on his teachings in the Bible, we believe he would oppose the kind of harmful proselytizing that is often done in his name today.
We also feel that the Bible, due to the extensive censorship and rewritings throughout history, is an incomplete document shaped by political agendas more than by pure spiritual truth. These are our personal beliefs, and we don’t seek to impose them on anyone else. Everyone, in their own time, will have a direct experience of God or Jesus, though it may come under different names depending on their spiritual practice. Regardless of these names, the core spiritual ideas remain the same. We believe that in God’s reality, nothing happens by mistake, and a loving God would never condemn anyone to an eternal lake of fire. Most of the evil in the world has been committed by those who claim they are doing good, and history makes this plain.
As for tarot cards and divination tools, we believe they are harmless at worst, offering a meaningful way to interact with the spirit world, angels, or even the Holy Spirit. At best, they can provide profound healing, insight, and comfort. Spiritual teacher Teal Swan speaks of “Spiritual Novocain”—temporary practices that provide quick relief but fail to address deeper wounds. Overly simplistic Christian beliefs, like these cursory spiritual practices, may feel good in the moment but often fall short of providing lasting healing. Many born-again Christians claim to have found the ultimate solution, but the ego thrives on division, declaring “I’m right, you’re wrong” or assigning guilt. In truth, anything that fosters division is the real abomination.
With this article, we aimed to explore why some Christians fear tarot cards and divination tools, and we feel we’ve addressed that. In short, Christianity warns against these practices primarily for political reasons and as a means of control. However, we encourage everyone to do their own research and choose the path that feels right for them. Most importantly, don’t outsource your spiritual journey to someone else. Awaken to the understanding that God is love, and that everything is either love or a call for love.
