Tarot is among the most well-known divination techniques, and though occultists have been drawing allegorical symbols for many centuries, illustrated decks are becoming popular all over. The intrinsic aestheticism of the ancient art of divination has brought back the fascination for tarot, and after seeing the plethora of tarot readings over on TikTok, perhaps you're ready to start your own practice. Since, tarot manicures are being practiced.
Despite its widespread use, the art can still seem elusive and confusing. Which is tarot? What does it mean and how are they used? It's not a problem: The basics are simple to grasp. Here's what every beginner should know about the origins of tarot and tips and tricks for kick-starting your own unique practice.
Where did tarot originate?
Surprisingly, it's a relatively modern craft. Although tarot decks have been around since the year 1400, pictorial cards were originally used as a game, not for predictions. Cartomancy, or fortune-telling through the use of playing cards was actually not developed until 1785 after 1785, when French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette -- known by his pseudonym, Etteilla, the inversion of his surname created a vast network of connections between astrology, illustrated cards, and ancient Egyptian tales.
Through the course of the next century, mystics and philosophers continued to expand the role of tarot. In the late 1890s many London-based occultists forged the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn which was among those groups responsible for the current revival of magic.
What's the difference between the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana cards?
Let's examine the design of the deck, as well as the meanings behind its cards. The practice of magic -- tarot and astrology as well as spellwork -- is an interpretation of the Hermetic principle "as above, so below." In other words, the macrocosmic universe can be seen in the microcosm of our personal experience. The entire universe is contained in the tarot deck, with each card being a representation of a person, location, or even an event. These symbols appear throughout both Major Arcana cards, which speak to greater secrets, and the Minor Arcana cards, which reveal lesser-known secrets.
The Major Arcana cards symbolize massive influence, defining aspects. They highlight our journeys and each card is an individual powerful signal, expressing important life-changing movements that define the beginnings or endings of cycles. These cards flash up in major transitions, signalling certain moments of change. The cards are numerically numbered, representing points in our overall journey through life; their chronological order illustrates the passing of time.
These Minor Arcana cards On the other hand depict everyday events. These cards show ordinary individuals engaged in ordinary activities like dancing, sleeping, drinking or arguing. They are a sign of action caused by human behavior and appear during gentle transitions which may be temporary or may have only a slight influence.
How many tarot cards exist?
The Minor Arcana cards are broken up into four suits, each containing 10 numbered cards and 4 court cards. In the case of Minor Arcana, the card's number indicates the level of an occasion: The ace card represents the beginning and the 10 is the conclusion. Also, the progression of the court cards show our comprehension of the situation on an individual basis that can be interpreted as characters or people. A Page (or Princess in some decks), Knight, Queen and King interpret their surroundings in a way that is more logical and knowledge.
Each of the suits (Wands, Pentacles, Swords, and Cups) represent their own specific areas of existence and astrological elements. Wands symbolize passion and inspiration (corresponding with the element of fire) Pentacles are a representation of money and physical realities (corresponding to the earth element) Swords are a symbol of intellectual intrigues (corresponding to the element of air), and Cups illustrate emotional issues (corresponding with the element water). These suits indicate which spheres of influence are active, giving advice regarding how best to manage whatever situation is at hand.
How can I start reading them?
Together with each other, they Major Minor and Major Minor Arcana cards create a comprehensive pictorial language. It is crucial to keep in mind that all the answers we require are contained within the cards, and each card representing a person an event, situation, or outcome. Since there aren't any secrets, problems or hidden agendas when using tarot and the capability to recognize meaning lies in your own interpretation.
Before starting any reading ensure that you play shuffle (or "clear") the deck. This practice should be an act of meditation. Be aware of the physicality of the cards in your hand as you imagine your query. When you're reading for someone else Use this moment of reflection to get to the root of their issues and assist you develop specific questions for them. Take as long as you need. Cleaning out the deck is a essential first step in reading tarot cards, since it opens the pathway between spiritual realms. Once you're prepared to cut the cards in three pieces and place them back in order with them facing down. You can place them on your favorite piece of cloth (be exquisite in your tarot deck) Prepare to pull cards for what you call your tarot "spread."
What are the different tarot card spreads?
"Three-card spread "three-card spread" is one of the simplest and efficient tarot spreads. It's possible to modify the categories to fit any circumstance (past and present, as well as future; yourself, the other person, the relationship; challenges, opportunities, outcomes; mind, body, and spirit). The cards and their corresponding position will quickly reveal connections and the dynamics. But prior to reading the straightforward explanation of each card spend a few moments to imagine your own story by observing. What does the card your drawing made you feel? What are the colors and symbols? In the event that there's characters are they facing each other or away from one another? Do the illustrations appear cohesive or disjointed?
Of of course, there are a variety of tarot card spreads that go beyond the three-card pull. Professional tarot card readers usually select"Celtic crosses" or "Celtic cross spread," which is comprised of 10 cards and , as the name suggests it is similar to the shape of the shape of a Celtic cross. The spread of 10 cards allows you to look at not just what's happened in the past as well as the future, but also obstacles, external influences, and even the outcomes.
For those who are new to the game here (though in truth, even the most experienced tarot readers practice this) an initial pull of one card a day will suffice at first to familiarize yourself with the routine. This technique involves selecting a time of day (usually early in the day) and simply using the cards to ask "What do I need to know today?" and "How should I focus my energy today?" This strategy is effective and easy to keep pace with, and is an effective way to understand the decks.
Though every card has classic associations, the most powerful resource available is your intuition. Pay attention to your immediate emotional reaction Your intuition will guide your research and help you build your visual memory. Eventually, you'll develop your own system and patterns as well as individual cards that have specific meanings to you. Maybe, the Devil card may symbolize an ex-lover, and they'll be a symbol of a new relationship, and the Two of Wands will symbolize an opportunity to get a job. Your personal lexicon will guide your readings and allow you to construct specific stories that you can apply to any scenario or event.
How do I choose a deck?
There's no shortage of stunning and exciting tarot decks. Since the mid-20th century hundreds -- if not thousands of gorgeous decks have been published. For instance, the Tarot de Marseille deck is an elegant reproduction of a classic French deck; the Motherpeace deck is a perfect representation of the ethereal spirit of the 1970s; the Black Power deck spotlights famous Black lights.
Certain tarot people consider that the first deck you choose should be presented to you as a gift. Even though everyone loves gifts but there's nothing better than rewarding your self with the wonder of divination. That's why I say you should relish the chance to pick that first set of cards. With the myriad of choices, the most important factor is your own unique connection with your cards.
Where can I buy tarot cards?
Whether you are shopping online or in-person, observe your emotions as you browse the various tarot decks. Do the decks you're considering inspire you? Wary? Confused? Be confident in your gut: Your careful consideration will ultimately guide your interpretation of cards. Take a look at the imagery Are you fascinated by classical or modern representations? Look at the symbols: Are they enticing? There is no hierarchy of tarot decks. So make sure to choose whichever deck is the most appealing to your soul.
The Rider Waite Tarot Deck
The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck is a wonderful first deck because so many decks to come are based upon its famous illustrations. Additionally, several it is helpful that tarot books, like 78 Degrees of Wisdom use the deck as a reference. Begin with the Rider-Waite deck and then build your collection of decks to ones that resonate with your own personal preferences. It's available online , but naturally, feel free to go to your local occult stores and find out what appeals to you in person.
The Black Power Tarot Deck
One fair and honest critique for the Rider-Waite Deck, and many like it and others, is how white most Tarot cards seem to be. When you consider how important individuals who are of color are in occult's time, this is annoying. If you're looking to get an inclusive and modern deck, the Black Power Tarot contains icons like James Brown and Etta James (on the Lovers card! ).