Why Do People Think Tarot Is Bad? 10 Top Reasons Explained

Tarot cards have been used for centuries as tools for self-reflection, divination, and spiritual guidance. Yet despite their long history and widespread use, tarot still carries a negative reputation in many circles. Some view it as dangerous, evil, or deceptive. Others see it as a meaningless game or a psychological crutch. So why do people think tarot is bad?

The answer lies in a mix of historical, religious, cultural, and psychological factors that have shaped public perception over time. This article explores the key reasons why tarot has been misunderstood and mistrusted, and why these beliefs still persist today.

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1. Religious Beliefs and Associations with the Occult

One of the strongest reasons people think tarot is bad is its long-standing association with the occult, which many religious traditions reject or fear.

a. Condemnation in Christianity

Many Christians, especially in more conservative or evangelical communities, view tarot as sinful or demonic. They believe it involves “divination,” which is condemned in the Bible. Verses like Deuteronomy 18:10–12 warn against fortune-telling, interpreting omens, or communicating with spirits. As a result, tarot is often seen as an invitation for evil influences to enter one's life.

Some pastors and religious groups go further, claiming that tarot opens the door to demonic possession, deception, or spiritual confusion. Even if the user has good intentions, they argue, the cards can become a tool for manipulation by darker forces.

b. The Occult Label

Tarot is often lumped in with other practices labeled as “occult,” such as astrology, witchcraft, or séances. The word “occult” literally means “hidden,” but in modern usage, it has a sinister tone. Practices associated with the occult are often portrayed as secretive, mystical, and potentially harmful.

Even though many modern tarot users approach the cards as tools for self-discovery or meditation, the occult label remains strong and fuels public suspicion.

2. Media Portrayals and Pop Culture

Another reason people think tarot is bad is the way it's portrayed in movies, TV shows, and books.

Tarot is often shown in spooky, mysterious, or dramatic settings—like in horror films or supernatural thrillers. A fortune teller flips over the Death card and the scene cuts to a murder. Or a character uses tarot to summon a ghost or predict doom. These exaggerated portrayals shape how people perceive tarot, especially if they’ve never encountered it in real life.

Even outside of horror, tarot is rarely shown as a grounded or serious practice. It’s often depicted as a scam, a joke, or something only eccentric characters use. Over time, these portrayals can lead people to believe tarot is either fake or dangerous.

3. Fear of the Unknown

Humans naturally fear what they don’t understand. Tarot involves symbolism, intuition, and elements of mystery—all of which can feel threatening to those unfamiliar with it.

The cards are filled with images of towers falling, skeletons riding horses, blindfolded figures, and celestial beings. Without context, these images can seem dark or unsettling. But in reality, each card has layered meanings and is rarely as negative as it looks. For example, the Death card often symbolizes transformation and rebirth—not literal death.

Still, for many, tarot feels “weird” or “creepy” because it lies outside their everyday experience. That discomfort leads to suspicion.

4. Skepticism and Scientific Criticism

Another reason people criticize tarot is that it lacks scientific proof. In a world where evidence and logic are highly valued, tarot’s reliance on symbolism, intuition, and subjective interpretation can seem irrational or even manipulative.

Skeptics argue that tarot readings are vague and rely on general statements that could apply to anyone—a psychological effect known as the Barnum effect. Critics also point out that confirmation bias plays a role: people remember the hits and forget the misses.

From a scientific standpoint, there is no hard evidence that tarot can predict the future or reveal hidden truths. Therefore, many scientists, psychologists, and rationalists dismiss it as pseudoscience or superstition.

5. Historical Misunderstandings

The modern tarot deck evolved from a 15th-century Italian card game called Tarocchi. It wasn’t used for divination until centuries later, when occultists in the 18th and 19th centuries assigned mystical meanings to the cards.

But that history is often forgotten or misunderstood. Some believe tarot has ancient Egyptian or magical origins, while others assume it was always used for fortune-telling. The mix of myths, legends, and evolving uses has made tarot seem mysterious and suspicious.

People who are unaware of its cultural and historical development may jump to conclusions, especially if they've only heard half-truths or sensational stories.

6. Scams and Exploitation

Unfortunately, some self-proclaimed tarot readers take advantage of vulnerable people. There are documented cases of scam artists using tarot as a way to extort money, by claiming someone is cursed and needs to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars to remove the curse.

These stories damage the credibility of the practice and reinforce the idea that tarot is dangerous or manipulative. While most readers are ethical and well-meaning, the few bad actors have a big impact on public perception.

7. Confusion Between Tarot and Witchcraft

Many people confuse tarot with witchcraft, especially due to its association with modern spiritual movements like Wicca and New Age practices.

Witchcraft itself is often misunderstood or feared, especially in cultures where it is associated with evil, curses, or rebellion against religion. Because tarot is sometimes used by witches or appears in witchy aesthetics, people assume it must be part of the same “forbidden” system.

This misunderstanding fuels the belief that tarot is a form of sorcery or black magic, even though it’s a separate practice that many people use without any connection to witchcraft at all.

8. Psychological Dependence and Emotional Risks

Even among those who don’t see tarot as evil or fake, there’s concern that it can create psychological dependency.

Some people may use tarot excessively, turning to the cards for every decision or reassurance. This can create a false sense of control or certainty, where the user avoids making choices without a reading. Over time, this dependence can undermine self-confidence or lead to anxiety.

Others might misinterpret a reading and become overly worried about a negative outcome. Without proper guidance, tarot can sometimes lead to emotional confusion or fear—especially if a person is already vulnerable or going through a crisis.

9. Cultural Taboos and Stigma

In many cultures, spiritual practices that fall outside the mainstream are stigmatized. People who use tarot may be labeled as “weird,” “delusional,” or “untrustworthy.” This cultural taboo adds social pressure to reject or ridicule tarot.

In some regions, tarot readers face legal restrictions or community backlash. In others, using tarot openly might damage one’s reputation or relationships. This societal discomfort contributes to the perception that tarot is not just bad—but socially unacceptable.

10. Misuse on Social Media

In recent years, tarot has become trendy on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. While this visibility has helped normalize the practice for younger audiences, it also comes with downsides.

Some influencers give daily “pick-a-card” readings to large audiences, making bold claims about love, money, or destiny. These general readings can mislead viewers or create unrealistic expectations. Others treat tarot as a quick-fix solution or a tool for attracting followers rather than offering genuine guidance.

The commercialization and oversimplification of tarot online may make the practice seem shallow or misleading to outsiders.

Conclusion: Misunderstood, Not Evil

So why do people think tarot is bad? Because of religion, fear, media stereotypes, scientific skepticism, and unethical practices. But underneath all the fear and misunderstanding, tarot is simply a tool—a mirror to the subconscious, a language of symbols, and a way to reflect on life’s deeper questions.

Tarot isn’t inherently good or bad. Like any tool, its value depends on how it's used and understood. For some, it's a spiritual path. For others, it's a creative method for introspection. And for many more, it's still a mystery worth exploring.

The more we understand tarot—its origins, purpose, and limitations—the more we can move beyond fear and engage with it thoughtfully and respectfully. Whether one chooses to use it or not, an open mind and informed perspective can help replace fear with curiosity and judgment with compassion.

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Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.