Tarot Cards first arrived in the 15th century and later became used for divination, tarot card readings and by the occult in the 18th century. The deck can be used for paranormal uses and also for personal use, many using them to gain an understanding of the happenings in their life. Tarot has a long history of being linked to the occult. They are also known as Waite-Smith and Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Decks. There are many types of decks available now all suited to different purposes. The most common type is the well-known 78 card deck first used by the occult in 1789.
What Are Tarot Cards?
Picture a tarot card as a palm-sized storybook. Each card reveals a different tale about special parts of your life. These parts are often associated with your love life, hard decisions, and future adventures.
The cool part is that the stories aren't written; they're drawn. They consist of pictures full of symbolic meanings. When you shuffle these cards and lay them out, it's like opening a magical door to see what your future holds. In essence, your cards will give you a sneak peek into fortune-telling.
How Do Tarot Cards Work?
In a tarot deck, each card holds a specific message. There are 78 cards in total, and they are split into two sections:
Major Arcana: The major arcana represents major events taking place in your life, and each of the 22 cards has a unique meaning. The names of the cards are:
Juggler or magician
Papess or female pope
Empress
Emperor
Pope
Lovers
Chariot
Justice
Hermit
Wheel of fortune
Strength or fortitude
Hanged man
Death
Temperance
Devil
Lightning-struck tower
Star
Moon
Sun
Last judgment
World or universe
Fool
Minor Arcana: These represent the everyday stuff and specific situations you might face. This group makes up the remaining 56 cards. They're split into four suits and each suit contains 14 cards.
The cards are allocated to the following suits within the deck:
Wands
Cups
Swords
Pentacles
When you're curious or have a question, you'll shuffle the tarot deck. Then, close your eyes and pick a few cards from the shuffled deck. Lay them out in a pattern of your choice to reveal your tarot card fortune. You can ask about anything, including money, health or any decisions you need to make. Tarot card meanings are about how you interpret the cards.
The cards become like a mirror, reflecting your inner thoughts and wisdom. Tarot isn't about magic or predicting the future perfectly; it's about having a friendly chat with your cards to guide you on your journey.
Laying Your Cards
Laying out your tarot cards (also known as a spread) can be done in a few different ways, depending on what type of reading or meaning you're looking for. Here are a few common ways to do tarot readings for a specific meaning:
Single card: Draw one single card for a quick answer to a specific question.
Three-card: Place three cards in a row. The first card represents the past, the second the present, and the third the future.
Celtic cross: This is a popular and detailed spread that involves 10 cards. Place the first six cards in a cross formation, and the rest of the cards on the right-hand side, placing the lowest number at the bottom, and the last number at the top.
Five-card: Lay out five cards in a cross formation. Each card represents different aspects such as obstacles, influences or advice.
Yes or no: Use one to three cards to answer a yes or no question. The directions and cards drawn provide the answer.
Relationship spread: The number of cards in this formation will vary. It is a spread used to explore the dynamics of a relationship, involving multiple cards for different aspects such as emotions, challenges, and potential outcomes.
When laying out your cards, remember to follow your gut feeling and the guidelines associated with the specific spread you're using.
Reversals in tarot
In the world of tarot, drawing a card upside-down isn't an omen of bad luck, instead, it leaves room for interpretation. For instance, reading the Death card doesn't mean literal death, but it might suggest the end of a chapter, or time to make way for new beginnings. Reading cards in reverse invites you to look at things from new perspectives, urging you to explore a different point of view and unlock hidden meanings.
Choosing Your Deck
A tarot deck can come in many different artistic expressions and forms. There are also diverse ranges of images and symbols. For example, SpiritShack's Vintage Tarot Card Deck is a classic representation of the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition and is frequently embraced by those exploring the world of tarot.
There are so many decks to choose from. With 78 cards in total, each deck holds a different energy, allowing readers to connect with an element that resonates most with their inner guidance.
Looking After Your Tarot Deck
Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best use out of your deck:
Cleanse your deck: Clear the energy of your deck regularly. You can use methods like smudging with white sage or incense sticks, or by using crystals like clear quartz.
Handle with clean hands: Keep your hands clean when handling the cards. This prevents dirt, oils, or residues from getting onto the cards.
Store them properly: Store your deck in a safe and clean place. It would be wise to get a tarot box to hold your deck. Alternatively, a simple wooden box would also work. Make sure the storage area is free from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Use a cloth or mat: When doing readings, place a cloth or mat underneath the cards. This not only adds a layer of protection but also creates a designated space for your cards. Get a cloth with a material that feels right to you.
Form a personal connection: Develop a personal connection with your deck. Spend time with the cards, meditate with them, and get to know their energy. The more attuned you are to your deck, the better it will respond to you while doing readings.
Do regular readings: Use your own cards regularly. Don't let anyone else use or shuffle your deck. This not only helps you become more familiar with the cards but also keeps the energy flowing between you and them. If the deck remains unused for long periods, it may be a good idea to do a cleansing ritual before your next reading.
The History of Tarot
Tarot cards are traced back to the 15th century and have transformed from playing cards to powerful psychic tools to help you gain perspective on life's big "why's".
Pamela Colman Smith created the Rider-Waite deck in 1909, and it is still seen as a timeless classic and a very popular choice for beginners. The major arcana cards, like the fool, magician, and high priestess (or female pope), lay the foundation for the spiritual and psychic journey shown in the tarot.
If you prefer to not use tarot cards but are still looking for other methods to practise divination, you might want to look into:
Conclusion
Tarot cards are a fascinating tool for gaining knowledge and perspective on life. Whether you have questions ranging from relationships and careers to faith and personal growth, these cards hold the answer.
Whether you're a curious soul, spiritual seeker, or someone drawn to the artistry of tarot decks, there is no better time to start your journey of divination than now. So, shuffle the deck, light a candle, and discover the answers to the unknown.
What are tarot cards?
It's a playing card deck that used for divination and psychic readings. They are believed to have been launched in Italy in the 15th century. And have been used ever since to gain insight into the past, present, and future.
How many cards are in a tarot card deck?
A traditional deck contains 78 cards. There are 22 major arcana cards and 56 minor arcana cards. The minor arcana cards are further divided into four suits. Each suit has 14 cards; Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.
How do you read tarot cards?
Once you have learned the meaning of each card, you can read your deck in different ways. You, or the person you are giving a reading to, will first think of a question. Then you shuffle the deck and place each card down. You then interpret each card based on its meaning and position in the reading.
How do you shuffle tarot cards?
There are many easy ways to shuffle your deck. The standard method is to hold the deck in one hand and use the other to cut the deck into three piles. Then, mix the piles back together. Cut the deck again, and repeat the process several times.
How do you cleanse your cards?
You are not required to cleanse your deck, it's a personal preference. Common methods are smudging with sage, and leaving the cards in direct sun or moonlight. Or can place your deck near a cleansing crystal such as clear quartz. It’s important to store them in a safe, clean space when not in use.
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