Tarot reading is an ancient practice with roots that can be traced back to the 15th century in Europe, and even earlier in other parts of the world. Originally used for playing card games, Tarot has evolved into a powerful tool for self-discovery, personal growth, and spiritual guidance. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Tarot, exploring its history, structure, and the process of reading Tarot cards. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced Tarot enthusiast, this guide aims to provide valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your understanding and skills in the art of Tarot reading.
Table of Contents:
1. Introduction
1.1. The origins of Tarot
1.2. The purpose of Tarot reading
1.3. The benefits of learning Tarot
2. The Tarot Deck
2.1. The structure of a Tarot deck
2.1.1. The Major Arcana
2.1.2. The Minor Arcana
2.1.2.1. The Suit of Wands
2.1.2.2. The Suit of Cups
2.1.2.3. The Suit of Swords
2.1.2.4. The Suit of Pentacles
2.2. Choosing the right Tarot deck
3. Preparing for a Tarot Reading
3.1. Creating a sacred space
3.2. Grounding and centring
3.3. Cleansing and consecrating the Tarot deck
3.4. Formulating the question
4. Tarot Spreads
4.1. The importance of Tarot spreads
4.2. Common Tarot spreads
4.2.1. The Three-Card Spread
4.2.2. The Celtic Cross Spread
4.2.3. The Horseshoe Spread
4.3. Creating your own Tarot spreads
5. Reading Tarot Cards
5.1. Intuitive Tarot reading
5.2. Interpreting individual Tarot cards
5.2.1. Major Arcana meanings
5.2.2. Minor Arcana meanings
5.3. Understanding card combinations
5.4. Reversed Tarot cards
5.5. Timing in Tarot
6. Developing Your Tarot Skills
6.1. Keeping a Tarot journal
6.2. Practising regularly
6.3. Reading for others
6.4. Participating in Tarot communities
6.5. Continuing education
7. Ethics of Tarot Reading
7.1. Respecting privacy and boundaries
7.2. Empowering the querent
7.3. Handling difficult readings
8. Conclusion
1. Introduction
1.1. The origins of Tarot
The exact origins of Tarot are shrouded in mystery, with some sources suggesting that it began as a form of divination in ancient Egypt, while others trace its roots to the Kabbalistic tradition in medieval Europe (Gray, 1982). It is widely believed that the modern Tarot deck, consisting of 78 cards, was first introduced in the 15th century in Italy, where it was used for playing a card game called Tarocchi. Over time, Tarot cards began to be associated with mystical symbolism and esoteric wisdom, and their use as a tool for divination and personal insight gained popularity across Europe and beyond (Pollack, 1980).
1.2. The purpose of Tarot reading
Tarot reading is often misunderstood as a means of predicting the future. While it can provide insights into potential outcomes and help you make informed decisions, its primary purpose is to serve as a tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual guidance. Tarot cards act as mirrors that reflect your inner thoughts, feelings, and desires, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your life’s journey. By connecting with your intuition and interpreting the symbols and archetypes found within the cards, you can uncover hidden truths, explore new perspectives, and gain valuable insights to help navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.
1.3. The benefits of learning Tarot
Learning to read Tarot cards offers a myriad of benefits for your personal and spiritual development. Some of the most significant benefits include:
- Self-awareness: Tarot helps you gain a deeper understanding of your inner self, revealing your strengths, weaknesses, desires, and fears. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and empowerment as you become more attuned to your own needs and motivations.
- Intuition development: As you practice reading Tarot, you will strengthen your intuitive abilities, enhancing your capacity to trust your instincts and make confident decisions in various aspects of your life.
- Mindfulness and meditation: The process of Tarot reading encourages mindfulness and meditation, as it requires you to be fully present, focused, and open to your inner wisdom. This can lead to increased mental clarity, reduced stress, and a greater sense of inner peace.
- Creative expression: Tarot reading is an inherently creative process, as it involves the interpretation of symbolic imagery and the weaving of stories and insights. Engaging with Tarot can help unlock your creative potential and inspire new ways of thinking and problem-solving.
- Connection and community: Learning Tarot can help you forge connections with others who share your interests, providing opportunities for social interaction, support, and personal growth. Participating in Tarot communities, both online and in-person, can foster a sense of belonging and enhance your learning experience.
By mastering the art of Tarot reading, you can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and spiritual enlightenment, all while deepening your connections with others and the world around you.
2. The Tarot Deck
To begin your journey into the world of Tarot, it’s essential to understand the structure and components of a Tarot deck. Tarot decks consist of 78 cards, each featuring rich and symbolic imagery that can be interpreted in various ways. These cards are divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
2.1. The structure of a Tarot deck
2.1.1. The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana comprises 22 cards, numbered from 0 to 21. These cards represent significant life events, spiritual lessons, and deep psychological archetypes. They are considered the most powerful cards in the Tarot deck, as they carry profound messages and guide us on our journey towards personal growth and enlightenment. Some of the most well-known Major Arcana cards include The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Lovers, and The Tower (Waite, 1910).
2.1.2. The Minor Arcana
The remaining 56 cards in a Tarot deck belong to the Minor Arcana, which is further divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit contains 14 cards, comprising 10 numbered cards (Ace to Ten) and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). The Minor Arcana cards represent everyday situations, challenges, and opportunities that we encounter in our daily lives.
2.1.2.1. The Suit of Wands
The Suit of Wands is associated with the element of fire and represents action, passion, creativity, and ambition. Wands cards often indicate the need for movement, change, and personal growth. They can also signify new beginnings, inspiration, and the pursuit of goals (Gray, 1982).
2.1.2.2. The Suit of Cups
The Suit of Cups corresponds to the element of water and symbolises emotions, relationships, love, and intuition. Cups cards are associated with feelings, connections, and the inner world of the psyche. They can represent the need for emotional healing, self-care, or a focus on relationships and emotional well-being (Pollack, 1980).
2.1.2.3. The Suit of Swords
The Suit of Swords is linked to the element of air and represents thoughts, intellect, communication, and conflict. Swords cards often deal with challenges, decisions, and mental clarity. They can signify the need for critical thinking, assertiveness, or the resolution of conflicts and obstacles (Waite, 1910).
2.1.2.4. The Suit of Pentacles
The Suit of Pentacles is connected to the element of earth and symbolises material wealth, resources, practicality, and stability. Pentacles cards typically focus on the physical world, including finances, career, health, and home. They can represent the need for financial planning, hard work, or grounding and stability in one’s life (Gray, 1982).
2.2. Choosing the right Tarot deck
There are countless Tarot decks available, each featuring unique artwork, themes, and interpretations. When selecting a Tarot deck, it’s essential to choose one that resonates with you on a personal level. Look for a deck with artwork that you find visually appealing and inspiring, as this will enhance your connection with the cards and improve your Tarot reading experience. It can be helpful to read reviews or seek recommendations from experienced Tarot readers to find a deck that aligns with your personal preferences and needs.
Some popular Tarot decks for beginners include the Rider-Waite Tarot, which is widely regarded as the classic Tarot deck and features iconic imagery that has inspired many other decks, and the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot, which incorporates elements of astrology, Kabbalah, and Egyptian symbolism. Other popular choices include the Shadowscapes Tarot, which features intricate, ethereal artwork, and the Wild Unknown Tarot, known for its minimalist, nature-inspired illustrations.
When starting your Tarot journey, you may wish to explore different decks and gradually build a collection that reflects your unique interests and tastes. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to Tarot decks – the key is to find a deck that speaks to you and supports your growth as a Tarot reader.
Understanding the structure of a Tarot deck and choosing the right deck for you are crucial steps in beginning your Tarot journey. By familiarising yourself with the Major and Minor Arcana and their corresponding suits, you will build a solid foundation for interpreting and applying the wisdom of the Tarot cards in your readings. As you explore different Tarot decks, trust your intuition and seek out imagery that resonates with you to forge a deeper connection with the cards and enhance your Tarot reading experience.
3. Preparing for a Tarot Reading
Before diving into a Tarot reading, it’s essential to prepare yourself and your environment to ensure a focused, accurate, and insightful reading. The following steps can help you create the ideal conditions for connecting with your intuition and the wisdom of the Tarot cards.
3.1. Creating a sacred space
To create a sacred space for your Tarot reading, choose a quiet, clutter-free area where you can sit comfortably and focus your attention. This could be a dedicated room or a small corner of your home that feels peaceful and inviting. You may wish to light candles, burn incense, or diffuse essential oils to create a calming atmosphere. Some people also like to incorporate meaningful objects, such as crystals, plants, or spiritual symbols, to enhance the energy of their sacred space. The goal is to create an environment that feels supportive, inspiring, and conducive to introspection and self-reflection.
3.2. Grounding and centring
Grounding and centring yourself before a Tarot reading is crucial for maintaining focus, connecting with your intuition, and ensuring an accurate and insightful reading. To ground yourself, take a few deep breaths, allowing the tension to release from your body with each exhale. You may also envision roots extending from your feet into the earth, connecting you to its stabilising energy. To centre yourself, bring your awareness to the present moment, letting go of any distractions or concerns. You might find it helpful to visualise a ball of light at your core, radiating warmth and peace throughout your entire being.
3.3. Cleansing and consecrating the Tarot deck
Cleansing and consecrating your Tarot deck is an essential practice to clear any residual energy from previous readings and imbue the cards with your unique energy and intention. There are several ways to cleanse a Tarot deck, including:
- Smudging: Using sage, palo santo, or other cleansing herbs to create a purifying smoke that cleanses the cards.
- Crystals: Placing a cleansing crystal, such as clear quartz or selenite, on top of the deck to absorb and neutralise negative energy.
- Moonlight: Leaving the deck under the light of a full moon to recharge and renew its energy.
After cleansing, consecrate your Tarot deck by holding it in your hands and setting a clear intention for its use, such as providing guidance, wisdom, and insight in your readings. This process helps to align the cards with your unique energy and purpose as a Tarot reader.
3.4. Formulating the question
When approaching a Tarot reading, it’s important to formulate a clear, focused question to guide the interpretation of the cards. Avoid asking overly broad or yes-or-no questions, as these can limit the depth and nuance of the reading. Instead, opt for open-ended questions that invite insight and exploration, such as:
- “What do I need to know about [situation]?”
- “How can I improve my relationship with [person]?”
- “What steps can I take to achieve [goal]?”
By preparing yourself and your environment, grounding and centring your energy, cleansing and consecrating your Tarot deck, and formulating a clear question, you create the ideal conditions for a meaningful and insightful Tarot reading. These practices serve to enhance your connection with your intuition and the wisdom of the Tarot cards, enabling you to navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and confidence.
4. Tarot Spreads
Tarot spreads are an integral part of Tarot reading, providing a framework for interpreting the cards and uncovering the answers to your questions. In this section, we will discuss the importance of Tarot spreads, explore some common spreads, and offer guidance on creating your own custom spreads.
4.1. The importance of Tarot spreads
Tarot spreads serve several essential functions in the reading process:
- Structure: Spreads provide a systematic way to lay out the cards, making it easier to interpret the relationships between them and uncover the underlying message.
- Context: Each position within a spread represents a specific aspect of the question, giving context to the cards and helping to clarify their meaning.
- Focus: Spreads help to focus the reading on specific issues or areas of concern, ensuring that the insights gained are relevant and actionable.
By using Tarot spreads, you can facilitate a more in-depth, focused, and meaningful reading experience, enhancing your understanding of the cards and their significance in your life.
4.2. Common Tarot spreads
There are countless Tarot spreads to choose from, each designed to explore different aspects of your question or situation. Here are three popular spreads that you may find useful in your Tarot practice:
4.2.1. The Three-Card Spread
The Three-Card Spread is a simple yet versatile spread, perfect for beginners or when you need quick insights. To perform this spread, draw three cards and lay them out in a row. Each card represents a different aspect of the situation:
- Past: This card reflects the past influences or events that have shaped the current situation.
- Present: This card represents the current state of affairs or the issue at hand.
- Future: This card indicates the potential outcome or direction the situation is heading in.
The Three-Card Spread can also be adapted to explore various aspects of your life, such as mind, body, and spirit, or decision-making with pros, cons, and advice.
4.2.2. The Celtic Cross Spread
The Celtic Cross Spread is a more complex spread that provides a comprehensive overview of a situation. It consists of ten cards, arranged in a cross and a column:
- The present situation
- The challenge or obstacle
- The underlying foundation
- The recent past
- The desired outcome
- The immediate future
- The querent’s inner self or attitude
- The external influences or environment
- The querent’s hopes and fears
- The final outcome or resolution
This spread is ideal for gaining deeper insights into a situation, examining the various factors that influence it, and exploring potential outcomes.
4.2.3. The Horseshoe Spread
The Horseshoe Spread is a seven-card spread that offers a snapshot of the past, present, and future, while also examining external influences and providing guidance. The cards are laid out in the shape of a horseshoe, with each position representing the following:
- The past
- The present
- The hidden influences
- The obstacles or challenges
- The external influences
- The immediate future
- The final outcome or advice
The Horseshoe Spread is a versatile and adaptable spread that can be used to explore a variety of questions and situations.
4.3. Creating your own Tarot spreads
As you become more experienced with Tarot reading, you may wish to create your own custom spreads to address specific questions or explore unique aspects of your life. When designing a Tarot spread, consider the following:
- Purpose: What is the goal of the spread? What do you hope to learn or uncover?
- Structure: How many cards will be used, and in what arrangement? How will the positions relate to one another?
- Positions: What does each position represent? How do they contribute to the overall interpretation of the reading?
Start by outlining your primary question or theme, then break it down into smaller aspects or components that you wish to explore. Assign each aspect to a card position and arrange the positions in a way that feels logical and coherent. You can also experiment with different layouts and shapes, such as circles, stars, or other geometric designs.
As you create your own Tarot spreads, remember that the goal is to design a framework that facilitates a deeper understanding of the cards and their relevance to your specific question or situation. Trust your intuition and allow your creativity to guide you in crafting spreads that resonate with your unique perspective and Tarot practice.
Tarot spreads are an essential tool in the art of Tarot reading, providing structure, context, and focus for your interpretations. By familiarising yourself with common spreads and creating your own custom spreads, you can enhance your Tarot practice and gain deeper insights into the questions and situations that matter most to you.
5. Reading Tarot Cards
Learning to read Tarot cards is a rewarding and transformative process that combines intuition, symbolism, and personal insight. In this section, we will discuss intuitive Tarot reading, interpreting individual cards, understanding card combinations, working with reversed cards, and exploring timing in Tarot.
5.1. Intuitive Tarot reading
Intuitive Tarot reading involves connecting with your inner wisdom and allowing it to guide your interpretation of the cards. This approach encourages you to look beyond the traditional card meanings and tap into your unique perspective and insights. To develop your intuitive Tarot reading skills, spend time meditating on each card, noting any feelings, thoughts, or impressions that arise. Trust your instincts and allow your intuition to illuminate the deeper meanings and messages of the cards.
5.2. Interpreting individual Tarot cards
While intuition plays a significant role in Tarot reading, it’s also essential to understand the traditional meanings and symbolism of each card. Familiarise yourself with the key themes and interpretations associated with the Major and Minor Arcana cards to build a solid foundation for your readings.
5.2.1. Major Arcana meanings
The Major Arcana cards represent significant life events, spiritual lessons, and deep psychological archetypes. Each card has a unique meaning and symbolism that can be applied to various aspects of your life, such as relationships, career, personal growth, and spirituality. To interpret the Major Arcana cards, consider their individual meanings in the context of your question or situation, as well as any intuitive insights that arise during the reading.
5.2.2. Minor Arcana meanings
The Minor Arcana cards represent everyday situations, challenges, and opportunities that we encounter in our daily lives. Each suit has a specific focus, with Wands relating to action and creativity, Cups to emotions and relationships, Swords to thoughts and communication, and Pentacles to material wealth and resources. To interpret the Minor Arcana cards, consider the meanings associated with the suit and the card’s specific number or court rank, as well as any intuitive impressions that emerge during the reading.
5.3. Understanding card combinations
In a Tarot reading, cards are often read in combination, with each card influencing and adding depth to the others. To interpret card combinations, consider the relationships between the cards, such as how their meanings complement or contrast with one another, and any recurring themes or patterns that emerge. Look for connections between the cards that can help you uncover deeper insights and nuances in the reading.
5.4. Reversed Tarot cards
Reversed Tarot cards, also known as “upside-down” cards, can add additional layers of meaning to your readings. While some readers choose not to use reversed cards, others find them helpful for exploring alternative perspectives and uncovering hidden aspects of a situation. Reversed cards can represent blocked or internalised energy, a need to reassess or reevaluate, or a situation that is unfolding in a different or unexpected way. When interpreting reversed cards, consider how the reversal might alter or expand the card’s traditional meaning in the context of your question or situation.
5.5. Timing in Tarot
While Tarot is not primarily a predictive tool, it can offer insights into the timing of events or situations. Timing in Tarot can be interpreted through several methods, such as:
- Card associations: Some cards are associated with specific timeframes, such as the Aces representing new beginnings or the Wheel of Fortune indicating cycles and changes.
- Numerology: The numbers on the cards can provide clues about timing, with lower numbers suggesting shorter timeframes and higher numbers indicating longer durations.
- Intuition: Trust your intuition to guide you in discerning the timing of events or situations, as it may reveal insights that are not immediately apparent from the cards alone.
When working with timing in Tarot, remember that the future is not set in stone and that the cards offer guidance and possibilities rather than definitive predictions. Use the insights gained from your readings as a tool for reflection and growth, rather than relying solely on them to determine the course of your life.
Reading Tarot cards is a rich and multifaceted process that combines intuition, knowledge of card meanings, understanding of card combinations, and the ability to work with reversed cards and timing. By honing these skills and trusting your inner wisdom, you can unlock the transformative power of Tarot and deepen your understanding of yourself, others, and the world around you. As you continue your Tarot journey, remember that the cards are a tool for personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration, offering guidance and insight to help you navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and confidence.
6. Developing Your Tarot Skills
As with any skill, becoming proficient in Tarot reading requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn from your experiences. In this section, we will explore strategies for developing your Tarot skills, including keeping a Tarot journal, practising regularly, reading for others, participating in Tarot communities, and pursuing continuing education.
6.1. Keeping a Tarot journal
A Tarot journal is an invaluable tool for documenting your Tarot journey and tracking your growth as a reader. In your journal, record the details of your readings, including the date, question, cards drawn, and your interpretations. Over time, this will help you identify patterns, refine your understanding of the cards, and enhance your intuitive abilities. Additionally, a Tarot journal can serve as a space for reflection, allowing you to explore the insights gained from your readings and how they relate to your life experiences.
6.2. Practising regularly
Regular practice is essential for developing your Tarot skills and building your confidence as a reader. Set aside time each day or week for Tarot practice, whether that involves reading for yourself, friends, or family members. Experiment with different spreads, techniques, and approaches to gain a deeper understanding of the cards and their meanings. As you practice, remember that mistakes and challenges are a natural part of the learning process – embrace them as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
6.3. Reading for others
Reading Tarot for others can be a rewarding and transformative experience, helping you develop your intuition, empathy, and communication skills. Begin by offering readings to friends, family members, or colleagues, and ask for their feedback and insights. As you become more confident in your abilities, consider expanding your practice to include readings for clients or participating in community events or Tarot exchanges.
6.4. Participating in Tarot communities
Joining a Tarot community, whether online or in-person, can provide valuable support, inspiration, and camaraderie as you develop your Tarot skills. Engage with fellow Tarot enthusiasts by participating in forums, attending workshops or meetups, or joining social media groups. These connections can help you expand your knowledge, gain new perspectives, and receive constructive feedback from peers who share your passion for Tarot.
6.5. Continuing education
Continuing education is a vital aspect of Tarot mastery, as it allows you to deepen your understanding of the cards, explore new techniques, and stay current with emerging trends and ideas. Pursue additional training through workshops, webinars, books, or courses, and seek out opportunities to learn from experienced Tarot professionals. By embracing lifelong learning and remaining open to new insights and approaches, you can continually refine your Tarot skills and elevate your practice to new heights.
Developing your Tarot skills is an ongoing journey that requires commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to learn from both successes and challenges. By keeping a Tarot journal, practising regularly, reading for others, participating in Tarot communities, and pursuing continuing education, you can cultivate your intuitive abilities, deepen your understanding of the cards, and ultimately become a more proficient and confident Tarot reader.
7. Ethics of Tarot Reading
As a Tarot reader, it is crucial to uphold ethical principles that guide your practice and ensure the well-being of both you and your querents. In this section, we will discuss the importance of respecting privacy and boundaries, empowering the querent, and handling difficult readings with care and sensitivity.
7.1. Respecting privacy and boundaries
Maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of your querents is a fundamental ethical responsibility. Treat the information shared during readings with the utmost respect, and refrain from disclosing any personal details without the explicit permission of the querent. Additionally, be mindful of personal boundaries, and avoid asking intrusive or inappropriate questions that could make the querent uncomfortable.
It’s also essential to recognise the limits of your expertise as a Tarot reader. Do not offer advice on medical, legal, or financial matters, and always encourage querents to consult with a qualified professional in these areas. Be honest about your abilities and refrain from making claims or guarantees that you cannot fulfil.
7.2. Empowering the querent
Tarot readings should be empowering and uplifting, providing guidance and insight that help querents navigate their lives with greater clarity and confidence. Focus on offering constructive, solution-oriented interpretations that enable querents to make informed decisions and take positive action. Avoid making fatalistic predictions or creating a sense of dependence, and always emphasise the querent’s personal agency and free will.
Encourage querents to trust their intuition and inner wisdom, and remind them that the Tarot is a tool for self-discovery and personal growth, rather than an infallible oracle that dictates their future.
7.3. Handling difficult readings
As a Tarot reader, you may occasionally encounter challenging readings that involve sensitive topics, strong emotions, or difficult revelations. In these situations, it’s crucial to approach the reading with compassion, empathy, and professionalism. Remain non-judgmental and supportive, and offer gentle guidance without imposing your personal beliefs or opinions.
When faced with challenging cards or messages, focus on providing constructive, actionable insights that can help the querent process their emotions and move forward in a positive direction. If a reading becomes too overwhelming or distressing, consider pausing or rescheduling the session to give the querent time to reflect and regroup.
Adhering to ethical principles is a vital aspect of Tarot reading that ensures the well-being and trust of both the reader and the querent. By respecting privacy and boundaries, empowering the querent, and handling difficult readings with care and sensitivity, you can create a safe and supportive environment for personal growth, self-discovery, and transformation.
8. Conclusion
Learning to read Tarot cards is a rewarding and transformative journey that offers countless opportunities for personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration. By familiarising yourself with the structure of the Tarot deck, developing your intuitive reading skills, and adhering to ethical guidelines, you can unlock the powerful insights and guidance that the cards have to offer. As you progress along your Tarot path, remember to continually refine your skills through practice, collaboration, and continuing education, and to approach your readings with curiosity, compassion, and an open heart.
References
- Gray, E. (1982). The Complete Guide to the Tarot. Bantam Books.
- Pollack, R. (1980). Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: A Book of Tarot. Weiser Books.
- Waite, A.E. (1910). The Pictorial Key to the Tarot. Dover Publications.
- Greer, M. K. (2002). Tarot for Your Self: A Workbook for Personal Transformation. New Page Books.
- Huggens, K. (2021). Tarot 101: Mastering the Art of Reading the Cards. Llewellyn Publications.
- Bunning, J. (2021). Learning the Tarot: A Tarot Book for Beginners. Red Wheel/Weiser.
