Beginner's Guide to Tarot: Reading and Understanding Tarot Cards

Embracing the Journey of Tarot

Feeling lost and seeking guidance? Tarot might be the answer. Whether you're an astrology enthusiast or simply looking to pick up a new hobby, tarot has seen a surge in popularity as a tool for self-reflection and insight. Mariana Louis, a tarot teacher and practitioner, emphasizes that learning tarot is a gradual process. "It’s not something you’re going to learn in a weekend," she says. "Go slow in the beginning. Be curious."

Meg Jones Wall, author and founder of 3am.tarot, also highlights the importance of patience. "It’s going to take time, and rushing the process only adds confusion. Pay attention to the cards and their meanings instead of forcing keywords to fit."

Juan Francisco, a psychic medium, believes tarot taps into our inherent intuition. "Tarot is one of many tools to access your intuitive side. The symbolism in the cards speaks to universal human themes," he explains.

Historical Context of Tarot

Tarot cards date back to the mid-15th century, originally part of the Italian game Tarocchini. Their use for divination emerged in the 18th century, popularized by figures like Antoine Court de Gébelin and Jean-Baptiste Alliette in Paris. Francisco notes, "The artistry and themes of tarot cards contribute to their enduring appeal."

Therapeutic Uses of Tarot

Beyond divination, tarot can serve therapeutic purposes. Shannon Knight, a psychotherapist, uses tarot for self-reflection. "The cards reflect our experiences and can unlock memories and feelings. It's a tool for mindfulness and personal growth."

Getting Started with Tarot

Choosing Your Deck

The Rider-Waite deck, created in 1909, is recommended for beginners due to its recognizable imagery. Francisco also suggests the Modern Witch Tarot Deck, Mystic Mondays Tarot, and Ethereal Visions Illuminated Tarot. "Choose a deck with imagery that resonates with you," he advises.

Understanding Card Meanings

Every tarot deck consists of 78 cards divided into Major and Minor Arcana. Major Arcana cards represent significant life themes, while Minor Arcana cards focus on day-to-day experiences. Here’s a quick overview of the Major Arcana:

0/The Fool: Beginnings, innocence, potential
1/The Magician: Manifestation, desire, capability
2/The High Priestess: Intuition, inner wisdom, balance
3/The Empress: Creativity, abundance, connection
4/The Emperor: Authority, discipline, leadership
5/The Hierophant: Tradition, education, adventure
6/The Lovers: Relationships, unity, acceptance
7/The Chariot: Control, willpower, perseverance
8/Strength: Courage, resilience, personal power
9/The Hermit: Introspection, solitude, authenticity
10/The Wheel of Fortune: Change, cycles, fate
11/Justice: Clarity, truth, fairness
12/The Hanged Man: New perspectives, sacrifice, stillness
13/Death: Endings, transformation, rebirth
14/Temperance: Patience, harmony, internal change
15/The Devil: Destructive behaviors, desire, wildness
16/The Tower: Upheaval, chaos, forced assessment
17/The Star: Hope, faith, healing
18/The Moon: Illusion, intuition, uncertainty
19/The Sun: Positivity, success, celebration
20/Judgment: Reflection, awakening, moving forward
21/The World: Completion, fulfillment, strength

Building a Relationship with Tarot

Starting with Simple Spreads

Begin with simple spreads like one-, two-, or three-card spreads. Common examples include:

Three-Card Spread: Past, present, future.
Two-Card Spread: Conscious, unconscious.

Keeping a Tarot Journal

Documenting your readings helps build intuition. Record the cards you pull and your interpretations. This practice personalizes your understanding and deepens your connection with the cards.

Preparing Your Deck

Some practitioners cleanse their deck before readings using white sage or other methods. Setting an intention and grounding yourself before a reading can enhance clarity.

Reading for Yourself

Reading for yourself can be powerful but requires caution. Approach with intention and be open to the messages. The cards reflect your inner state and can provide profound insights.

Conclusion

Tarot is a tool for self-discovery, offering a mirror to our inner world. By taking a slow, intentional approach, you can unlock the rich symbolism of the cards and gain valuable insights into your life. Remember, the journey with tarot is personal and ever-evolving.