There are several misconceptions about Tarot Cards. Probably the biggest is that they are ‘evil’. So... are they? The short answer is no. I believe people can be evil or have evil intentions, but Tarot Cards are just that, cards. They originated in the mid-15th century and were, at that time, just a deck of playing cards. They were popular in various parts of Europe for playing games such as Italian tarocchini, French tarot and Austrian Konigrufen. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that they began to be used for divination in the form of tarotology and cartomancy. The cards are traced by some to ancient Egypt or the Kabbalah, but there is no documented evidence to suggest the usage of tarot for divination before the 18th century. So, to better explain why they are not ‘evil’, I would like to speak to what Tarot is and what it’s not.
Tarot is a wonderful way to connect us with our inner knowledge and intuitions. It is also a great way to connect and receive information from the Universe via Spirit Guides, God, Angels or whomever/whatever divine source you place your spirituality and faith in. Sometimes Tarot can be used to predict the future, but only a potential future. I say potential because I personally don’t like to deal in absolutes when I read Tarot, and here is why:
Let’s say, for example, we approach it as predicting the future, we convince ourselves that the future is completely outside of our power. If I were to tell you, "Your relationship is going to end in the next six months,” how would you feel? I’m guessing you would feel completely powerless, and quite frankly, that mentality assumes you are indeed powerless and thus, completely negates the entire concept of free will. We are always capable of making decisions that will change the outcome of our situations. For example, if you get a reading that says your relationship is going to end in six months, you should probably interpret that as, if you do nothing about the path you are currently on, it is likely your relationship will end in the next six months. Now that said, there are some cards that when they appear in a spread predict an upheaval or sudden change you don’t see coming. This still won’t negate your free will because what it did was give you a warning. You then become a bit more prepared for anything coming your way. Thus, you are able to prepare yourself and you may be able to alter the outcome, or at least your reaction to an outcome, even if it’s just slightly.
When Tarot is used properly, we are able to create a beautiful, good, intuitive connection with the universe. When we make this connection, the cards can be used as a tool to access our inner wisdom. It helps us attempt to understand more about ourselves and our present situation so that we can make the right choices to create a future that serves our greater good.
That’s why I truly believe, to my core, that Tarot is not evil. When we’re using it for understanding ourselves more, we’re empowering ourselves. We’re connecting to our inner selves, where there is purity and universal energy. When approached with love, light and good intentions, there is no room for anything evil to enter.
Now I know some of you have been worried about using the Tarot cards and you are thinking, “Oh no, am I playing with something that’s really evil that might bring about bad spirits?” My answer to you is no. Tarot is a wonderful tool, when used properly. That is, approaching it with only good intentions, using it to connect to your inner wisdom, and using it to empower yourself to make the right decisions in your life.
As a lifelong student of spirituality, religion and the metaphysical, I understand that when it comes to some religious beliefs, Tarot can be perceived as sinful. For example, it says in the Bible in Leviticus: “Do not practice divination or seek omens.” So, I get it. I completely understand that if you have strong religious beliefs, when you read the Bible, and you read this line, you might think, “OK, I’m not going to do divination, and Tarot cards are part of that.” But ask yourself a question. When you seek guidance from Tarot, who are you seeking it from? If you are a devoutly faithful person, you most likely are asking God, Jesus and perhaps Angles for guidance and wisdom.
As a very spiritual person myself, I believe with all my heart that Tarot is simply another tool available for you to use in your quest to connect with and receive guidance. I believe the universe is always trying to connect with us in different ways to deliver messages of faith, love, and sometimes potential obstacles in our lives. To guide us in becoming the best versions of ourselves that we are meant to be.
So, to sum it up, No, Tarot Cards are not evil. They are just interesting cards with beautiful artwork and a rich history that tell a story. It just so happens that they are also a great tool that can be used to help us access our own intuition and receive messages from the universe.
I know Tarot is not for everyone. For those who are interested, I hope I was able to provide a little bit of insight and, perhaps, alleviate some misgivings or fears you may have had about Tarot Card Readings.
I wish you all love, light and peace.
-Tina Vazquez
