עברית
Faith
What is Judaism's View on Reading Tarot Cards?
Question
Hello, my name is Sharon and I wanted to know what Judaism says about reading tarot cards and how it relates to a person who reads cards. A relative of ours is a tarot card reader and also deals with astrology and creates kabbalistic maps. I would like to know what Judaism says about this and how I can convince her to stop. I should mention that she is a believing person and is convinced that all she does is help people (those who come to her asking for help). We know this is forbidden, but we do not know the reasoning behind it and how the religion views such mystics. Best regards, Sharon.
Answer
Greetings and best wishes
The Torah forbids us from consulting star-gazers and fortune tellers, as is explained in the verse, "You shall be wholehearted with Hashem your God," which teaches us not to inquire about the future (Rashi on Deuteronomy 18:13). "You shall be wholehearted with Hashem your God" means to walk with Him in sincerity and to expect from Him, and not to seek knowledge about the future. Rather, whatever comes upon you, accept it sincerely, and then you will be with Him and share in His portion. It is also ruled in the Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De'ah, siman 179, section 1, that one may not consult star-gazers or rely on lots. Furthermore, it is forbidden to inquire of sorcerers, fortune-tellers, or magicians. Regards, Benjamin Shmueli
