Why does tom walker begins to go to church and carry his bible with him at all times?

Tom Walker begins to go to church and carry his Bible as a hypocritical attempt to disguise his guilt and appease his conscience after making a deal with the devil. He seeks to project an image of piety and righteousness to the community, believing that this will protect him from the consequences of his actions. This behavior highlights the theme of moral corruption and the conflict between outward appearances and inner truth in Washington Irving's story. Ultimately, Tom's superficial religiOSity serves as a façade that cannot save him from his fate.