Exploring the Controversy: Why Tarot Card Reading is Considered Haram in Islam

Religion, by its very nature, seeks to provide guidance and direction to its followers. In the context of Islam, certain practices are deemed haram (forbidden) based on interpretations from the Quran and Hadith. One such practice is tarot card reading, which is often criticized and considered forbidden within the religious framework of Islam. This article explores the reasoning behind this stance and discusses the broader implications of such practices in a religious context.

The Role of Tarot Card Reading in Modern Society

Tarot card reading has been embraced by many as a means of seeking insight into one's past, present, and future. Unlike traditional forms of divination, tarot often integrates personal symbolism and interpretation, making it a deeply communicative tool. Despite its popularity, it faces significant opposition within Islamic communities, where the practice is viewed with suspicion and fear.

Why Tarot Card Reading is Considered Haram in Islam

Islam, like many other faiths, seeks to guide its followers along a path of righteousness. Certain practices, such as tarot card reading, are deemed haram, primarily due to their association with perceived heresy and deception. Here are a few key reasons:

Religious Allegiance and Control

Islam often emphasizes the importance of adhering strictly to religious guidelines as provided by the Quran and Hadith. Practices like tarot card reading are often seen as a method of seeking knowledge that circumvents the guidance provided by religious authorities. This is viewed as a challenge to the control and interpretation of religious texts, leading to its condemnation.

Doubt about the Future Prediction

The argument against tarot card reading often revolves around the principle that the future is predetermined and cannot be accurately predicted. Critics argue that if a reader can predict the future, it suggests that the future can be altered or influenced, which contradicts the belief in the unchangeability of the predetermined destiny (Qadar) according to Islamic tradition.

To quote the Sahih al-Bukhari, a widely respected collection of Hadith, (that which is marked by God) is not altered through your conjectures. Indeed, the conjecture does not lead to anything except error (очень неправильное предложение, скорее всего, нужно предоставить верный перевод и объяснение). This hadith highlights the belief in the unalterable nature of destiny, further reinforcing the opposition to practices like tarot card reading.

The Tyranny of Closed-Minded Religious Views

Religions that insist on strict adherence to their interpretation of sacred texts tend to be closed-minded, stifling individual growth and exploration. Tarot card reading, for many, is a means of expressing individuality and seeking spiritual guidance independently of institutional religious structures. However, such practices are often met with hostility, as they challenge the traditional authority of religious leaders and institutions.

Conclusion

The prohibition of tarot card reading in Islam reflects a broader tension between individual autonomy and institutional control. While tarot reading is often viewed with suspicion and even hostility, its appeal to those seeking guidance, understanding, and self-discovery remains significant. This article serves to provoke thought and understanding about the complexities surrounding religious practices and the impact they have on individual beliefs and choices.