Tarot is a system of divination using a deck of cards. Today, as the Tarot continues to evolve, it has become a tool to help us make choices, gain clarity, and support spiritual growth. The Tarot gives us meaning and affirms what we already know but needs to come into our consciousness. The systems that underlie the Tarot can be simplified and organized to make the cards an accessible tool.
The origins of the Tarot are unclear. Some believe the Tarot dates back as far as ancient Egypt and relates to the “Tree of Life” (the qubalah). Tarot might have originally been a Book of Wisdom or a pictorial way for gypsies who spoke different languages to communicate. Many believe the first deck was a game made as a wedding gift for the marriage of the Visconti and Sforza families in Renaissance Italy. Why or how they work is an exciting mystery even to seasoned readers.
The Tarot consists of 78 cards.
22 Major Arcana Cards – the entire range of Archetypical experiences
40 Minor Arcana Cards – the matter at hand
Air/Swords – Thoughts
Fire/Wands – Insights
Water/Cups – Emotions
Earth/Pentacle – Physical
16 Court Cards – specific people or aspects of yourself that influence the situation
King Father/wise one
Queen Mother/nurturer
Knight Son/young adult
Page Daughter/child