What is Tarot?

Tarot is a deck of cards that is often used for divination, self-reflection, and spiritual guidance. It consists of 78 cards, divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing a significant life theme or archetype, such as The Fool, The Magician, or The Lovers. The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles), each representing different aspects of daily life and experiences.

What is Tarot?​

Tarot readings involve drawing cards from the deck and interpreting their symbolism and meanings. Readers use their intuition, knowledge of the cards, and the specific spread or layout to provide insights, guidance, and potential outcomes for the person seeking the reading. 

 

Tarot can be a tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and gaining clarity on various aspects of life, including relationships, career, and spirituality. 

what is the tarot

The History Of Tarot Cards

The history of tarot is a subject of debate and speculation, as its origins are not well-documented. However, here is a general overview of the history of tarot:

  1.  Origins: The exact origins of tarot are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the 14th century in Europe, likely in Italy or France. The earliest known tarot decks were created as playing cards for games, not for divination or spiritual purposes.

  2. Early Tarot Decks: The Visconti-Sforza tarot deck, created in the 15th century, is one of the oldest surviving tarot decks. It was commissioned by the ruling families of Milan and features intricate artwork. Other early decks include the Tarot de Marseille, which became a popular style in France.

  3. Tarot and Divination: Tarot cards began to be used for divination and fortune-telling in the 18th century. This shift in usage is often attributed to Antoine Court de Gébelin, a French occultist who proposed that tarot cards held ancient mystical knowledge and symbolism.

  4. Tarot and the Occult: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tarot became associated with various occult and esoteric movements, such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. Influential figures like Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith created the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck, which remains one of the most popular and widely used tarot decks today.

  5. Tarot in Popular Culture: Tarot gained further popularity in the 20th century, with its imagery and symbolism being incorporated into various forms of art, literature, and popular culture. Tarot decks have been created with themes ranging from fantasy to pop culture references. It’s important to note that while tarot has a rich history, its use and interpretation have evolved over time. Today, tarot is widely used for personal reflection, spiritual guidance, and divination, with countless variations of decks and interpretations available.
History of tarot

Types of Tarot Spreads

There are numerous tarot spreads available, each designed to address different types of questions or provide specific insights.

  1. Three-Card Spread: This spread uses three cards to represent the past, present, and future or to give insight into a situation.

  2. Celtic Cross Spread: A popular and comprehensive spread, it uses ten cards to provide a detailed analysis of a situation, including past influences, current circumstances, future possibilities, and advice.

  3. Relationship Spread: This spread focuses on relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or familial. It explores the dynamics, challenges, and potential outcomes of the relationship.

  4. Career Spread: This spread helps with career and professional matters. It can guide decision-making, identify opportunities, and understand potential challenges. 

  5. Horseshoe Spread: This spread provides a broader perspective on a situation. It looks at the past, present, and future, as well as factors influencing the situation and potential outcomes.

  6. Yes/No Spread: This spread is used to answer yes or no questions. It involves drawing a single card or a small number of cards to determine the answer.

  7. Chakra Spread: This spread focuses on the body’s energy centers, known as chakras. It helps identify imbalances or areas of focus for personal growth and healing. These are just a few examples of tarot spreads, and there are many more available. The choice of spread depends on the nature of the question or situation you want to explore.

Reversed Tarot Cards

in tarot readings, reversed cards refer to cards that appear upside down when drawn from the deck. Reversed cards can add an additional layer of meaning and interpretation to a reading. While the upright position of a card generally represents its traditional meaning, a reversed card can indicate a different perspective or energy related to that card. Here are a few common ways to interpret reversed tarot cards: 

  1. Blocked or Hindered Energy: Reversed cards can suggest that the energy associated with the card is blocked, hindered, or not fully expressed. It may indicate obstacles, resistance, or challenges related to the card’s meaning.

  2. Internalized or Subtle Energy: Reversed cards can represent internalized or subtle energies that are present but not as overt or externalized. It may suggest that the energy is more introspective, hidden, or operating on a subconscious level.

  3. Opposite or Contradictory Meaning: Reversed cards can sometimes indicate the opposite or contradictory meaning of the upright card. It may suggest a need to consider the opposite perspective or to approach the situation differently.

  4. Delays or Reversals: Reversed cards can signify delays, setbacks, or a need to reassess a situation. It may indicate a need for patience or a temporary pause before progress can be made.

  5. Shadow or Unconscious Aspects: Reversed cards can bring attention to shadow or unconscious aspects of the card’s meaning.
Tarot
It may suggest the need to explore deeper layers, hidden motivations, or unresolved issues related to the card’s theme. It’s important to note that the interpretation of reversed cards can vary depending on the reader and the context of the reading. Some readers may interpret reversed cards as negative or challenging, while others may see them as opportunities for growth and self-reflection. Ultimately, the interpretation of reversed cards should be done in conjunction with the overall reading and the reader’s intuition.
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