For people who are in the path of integral yoga with what attitude we should look at such occult things?
The Mother has not mentioned anything directly about the Tarot card. But if we take the essence of Her writings in these matters it would seem that the magic lies in the consciousness of the seeker. For example She has mentioned that when one is ready for the spiritual path, one gets indications and signs in response to questions. She suggested the method of opening one of Sri Aurobindo’s or Her books or any book imbued with the higher spiritual consciousness, with the question in mind to get an indication of the answer. This method has been well known since long. There was a similar method suggested with Ramcharitmanas.
But with Tarot cards it is also possible that the long usage has created a certain formation around it which might help. Of course these things are unlikely to work always or in all cases. Our faith counts and very often what is deeply in our mind or uppermost throws up its suggestions, almost like the projection of a strong wish or desire which may come true because of its strength. This is what The Mother mentioned in number of places including the wish people make when they see a shooting star. It is however a different story whether this wish fulfilment is necessarily good or not, from the larger and spiritual point of view. It is the power, the power of faith we invest into things that often makes them work. It is so even with superstitions. If we believe strongly in something we increase the chances of its happening!
In yoga conquest of desire is an important part of it. It is best therefore to surrender everything at The Mother’s Feet and leave it to Her Will as to whether it should be fulfilled or not. The simplest and age-old way is prayer about which so much has been written by them.
But then people do take interest in occult things and in the totality of our growth there is no taboo on learning it provided it is kept in proportion and in its right place. The main preoccupation and occupation in yoga is in union with the Divine and the fulfilment of Her Will in us and in all.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
