Tarot

What Are Tarot Cards? Everything You Need to Know

Aryan K | August 2, 2024

The Origins of Tarot
What Are Tarot Cards?
What is Tarot Reading?
- The Process of a Tarot Reading
- The Role of Intuition
Why People Turn to Tarot
- A Tool for Personal Growth
- Connecting with the Spiritual
Misconceptions About Tarot
How to Get Started with Tarot
Conclusion: Tarot and Deluxe Astrology

If you've ever wandered through the aisles of a bookstore or browsed the depths of the internet, you've probably come across mysterious, colorful decks called tarot cards. You might have even wondered, "What are tarot cards?" or "What is tarot reading all about?" Let's dive into the fascinating world of tarot and explore its origins, how it works, and why it continues to captivate so many people today.

The Origins of Tarot

Tarot cards have a long and storied history that dates back to the mid-15th century in Italy. Originally, they were used for playing a game called Tarocchi. The first tarot deck of significant historical importance is the Rider–Waite–Smith deck, which is considered the first complete cartomantic tarot deck in the English-speaking world. It wasn’t until the late 18th century that tarot cards became associated with mystical and occult practices, thanks to French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette (better known as Etteilla). Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith made significant contributions to the development of the modern tarot deck, with their collaboration resulting in the enduringly influential Rider Waite Smith deck. He was among the first to popularize the idea that tarot cards could be used for divination.

What Are Tarot Cards?

At its core, a tarot deck consists of 78 cards divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana includes 22 cards, each with its own unique imagery and symbolism, such as The Fool, The Magician, and The Lovers. These cards often represent significant life events or spiritual lessons.

The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit has 14 cards, ranging from Ace to King, including the court cards: the Page, Knight, Queen, and King. These cards tend to focus on more everyday matters and can offer insight into our daily lives and challenges. The four suits in the Minor Arcana are similar to the suits in standard playing cards.

A standard tarot deck typically includes 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana cards, following the common layout seen in the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot.

What is Tarot Reading?

Tarot card reading is an accessible practice that anyone can learn to gain insight into the past, present, or future by interpreting the cards drawn during a reading. It’s a tool for reflection, guidance, and sometimes even predicting future events. But how does it work?

Tarot spreads, which are specific patterns used to lay out tarot cards, play a significant role in readings. The arrangement of cards in these spreads carries distinct meanings, enhancing the depth and clarity of the interpretations.

The Process of a Tarot Reading

A tarot reading typically begins with the seeker (the person seeking guidance) shuffling the deck while focusing on their question or situation. Tarot card readers engage with clients by providing guidance and helping them navigate personal challenges, emphasizing community, empowerment, and self-reflection. The reader (the person interpreting the cards) then draws a certain number of cards and lays them out in a specific pattern, called a spread. Each position in the spread has a different meaning, and the reader interprets the cards based on their positions and the questions asked.

One of the most popular spreads is the Celtic Cross, which uses ten cards to provide a comprehensive overview of a situation. Other spreads can be as simple as drawing a single card for daily guidance or using three cards to represent the past, present, and future.

The Role of Intuition

While each tarot card has traditional meanings, a skilled tarot reader relies heavily on their intuition. They look at the images, symbols, and their feelings about the cards to provide a reading that resonates with the seeker’s unique situation. This blend of knowledge and intuition makes each tarot reading a deeply personal experience.

Tarot readers can be anyone, and the practice is accessible to all, regardless of psychic abilities.

Why People Turn to Tarot

People turn to tarot for various reasons. Some seek clarity during confusing times, while others look for guidance in making important decisions. Many people use tarot as a tool for self-reflection, helping them to better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Tarot readings serve as tools for understanding one's life journey and addressing personal questions.

A Tool for Personal Growth

Tarot can be a powerful tool for personal growth. By regularly consulting the cards, individuals can track their progress, uncover hidden fears, and discover new aspects of themselves. It’s like having a personal counselor or life coach at your fingertips.

Connecting with the Spiritual

For many, tarot is also a way to connect with the spiritual realm. Whether they believe in a higher power, the collective unconscious, or simply their own inner wisdom, tarot provides a tangible way to access and interact with these unseen forces.

Misconceptions About Tarot

Despite its popularity, tarot often faces skepticism and misunderstanding. Some people think it’s about predicting the future with certainty or believe it’s linked to dark, occult practices. In reality, tarot is more about guidance and insight than fortune-telling. It’s a tool that helps people navigate their lives, much like a compass.

How to Get Started with Tarot

Interested in exploring tarot yourself? Here are a few steps to get started:

Choose a Deck: There are countless tarot decks available, each with unique artwork and themes. Pick one that resonates with you.
Learn the Basics: Start by familiarizing yourself with the meanings of the Major and Minor Arcana. Many decks come with a guidebook to help you.
Practice Regularly: The more you use your cards, the more comfortable you’ll become with interpreting them.
Trust Your Intuition: Don’t be afraid to rely on your intuition as you read the cards. Your personal insights are just as valuable as traditional meanings.

Conclusion: Tarot and Deluxe Astrology

Now that you have a brief overview of what tarot is and how tarot reading works, you might be curious to explore it further. Whether you’re looking for personal guidance, spiritual connection, or just a fun way to reflect on life’s journey, tarot can be a fascinating and rewarding tool.

For those interested in astrology, Deluxe Astrology offers an excellent resource for free online astrology readings and horoscope generation. They provide personalized insights into your astrological profile, helping you understand the cosmic forces at play in your life. Combining the wisdom of astrology with the intuitive guidance of tarot can offer a comprehensive approach to navigating life’s challenges and opportunities.

So, why not give it a try? Dive into the world of tarot and astrology, and discover the rich tapestry of insights waiting for you.

Aryan K Astro Spiritual Advisor

Aryan K. is a seasoned astrologer and a dedicated team member at Deluxe Astrology. With an extensive background in astrology, Aryan possesses in-depth knowledge in various domains including Zodiac Signs, Tarot, Numerology, Nakshatra, Career Astrology, Kundli analysis, and marriage predictions. His passion for unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos and providing accurate astrological insights has made him a trusted name in the field. Aryan’s articles aim to enlighten readers with precise and practical astrological guidance, ensuring they benefit from the ancient wisdom of astrology. Whether you're seeking clarity about your future, understanding your personality traits, or making informed decisions about your career or relationships, Aryan's expertise is here to guide you. When he's not writing, Aryan enjoys stargazing and delving into the latest astrological studies to enhance his knowledge and expertise in the field continually.

See Full Bio