Remember that the Tarot is a great and sacred arcanum –
its abuse is an obscenity in the inner and a folly in the outer.
It is intended for quite other purposes than to determine
when the tall dark man will meet the fair rich widow.
― Jack Parsons
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1. What is Tarot?
Historically, Tarot was used as a tool for divination. However, in more recent times, it is used primarily as a tool for self-awareness and personal growth. 2. What does the word ‘Tarot’ mean? The word ‘Tarot’ derives from an Italian card game called 'Tarocchi'. |
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3. Where does Tarot come from?
The origins of Tarot are steeped in mystery. Although many legends surround the history of the cards, their precise origin is unknown. There are those who claim they originated in ancient Egypt; others say they came from the Romany Gypsies; there are claims they came from Atlantis; others say they descend from the Jewish Kabbalah. There is no evidence to validate any of these claims ... although it is impossible to ignore the correspondences between the Tarot and the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Historical records point to the emergence of Tarot as a card game called 'Tarocchi' in 14th century Italy.
4. What is a Tarot deck?
A traditional Tarot deck is comprised of 78 cards, divided into two sections:
* The 22 cards of the Major Arcana (meaning 'greater secrets')
* The 56 cards of the Minor Arcana (meaning 'lesser secrets'). The Minor Arcana is divided into four suits of 10 cards each – Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles, representing the four ancient elements of Fire, Water, Air and Earth. Included in these 56 cards are 16 court cards – a Page, Knight, Queen and King for each suit.
There are those who say that the 'Joker' card in the modern deck of playing cards comes from the 'Fool' card in the Tarot (the first card of the Major Arcana) and that the four suits descend from the four suits of the Minor Arcana. Other theories suggest just the opposite ... that the Minor Arcana descends from the playing cards. Although these theories have never been validated, it is intriguing to note the uncanny 'coincidence' of Wands (with Clubs), Cups (with Hearts), Swords (with Spades) and Pentacles (with Diamonds). Maybe these theories will be proven correct one day. Who knows?
Most modern Tarot decks feature images on all cards. However, many of the older decks display images on the Major Arcana only, requiring a knowledge of numerology in order to interpret the cards of the Minor Arcana. Some decks use different names for various cards. Tarot cards have correspondences to both astrology and numerology.
5. What is the fundamental meaning behind the cards of the Tarot?
Tarot speaks to us through the universal archetypes of the unconscious that are recognized by all humans. The cards of the Major Arcana represent major spiritual lessons that the soul needs to master on its evolutionary journey back to the oneness of Source. The cards of the Minor Arcana relate to matters of everyday physical life.
6. Does Tarot accurately predict the future?
The future is never ‘written in stone’. We always have free will. The Tarot reveals the energy at any given moment in time, showing the likely outcome should one continue on their present course. Those consulting a Tarot reader are more than likely seeking advice in relation to a problem or decision of some kind. Although Tarot does not predict definitive outcomes, it brings to light potentials and possibilities that may need to be explored. Although there will always be certain things going on around us that affect us, but over which we have little or no control, the cards can reveal ways in which to best deal with these issues.
7. Is it correct that I can only use a Tarot deck that has been given to me?
No. That is a complete myth. It is similar to the even more bizarre myth which says that in order for a deck to be of any use, it has to have been stolen! The origin of these strange ideas is a mystery.
8. Where do I buy a Tarot deck?
Tarot decks are widely available in 'new age' stores, conventional bookstores and online.
9. How do I choose a Tarot deck?
This is a completely personal choice. You may choose any deck to which you are drawn. However, I would suggest starting with one of the more traditional decks, such as the 'Rider-Waite'. It is rich in symbolism and is an excellent deck on which to learn. Once your knowledge and confidence increase, you can experiment with others.
10. How many Tarot decks are there?
There are literally thousands of Tarot decks on the market. An excellent website is Aeclectic Tarot.
11. What Tarot books should I read?
There are many excellent Tarot books on the market. It is preferable to study one or two quality books rather than too many, which may result in confusion. It is interesting to note that many are written by psychologists or counsellors of some kind.
12. Should I attend a Tarot course?
Tarot courses or workshops are an excellent way in which to learn, especially when it comes to putting it all together. The group interaction and experimentation with different spreads is very beneficial.
13. Why do some people read reversed Tarot cards and others do not?
The reading of reversed cards does not appear to be as prevalent in current times as it was in the past. Each card holds a full range of the expression of its energy, from its most positive right through to its most negative. Whether it is expressing in a positive or negative manner will depend on the other cards in the spread. The decision as to whether to read reversed cards is entirely up to the reader. There is no right or wrong way. However, I feel it is best to focus on the upright meanings until your knowledge and confidence increases.
14. Are Tarot cards evil?
How can a pack of cards be evil? No, they are not evil, but have been much maligned over the years through religious dogma and intolerance. They are a very enlightening tool for personal growth and the manner in which they are used depends entirely on the ethics of the reader. Tarot is merely a tool and the reader is simply tapping into his or her own intuition through the symbolic imagery of the cards.
Most Tarot readers are people of high integrity on a path of pure spiritual intent. They have a genuine interest in helping those who seek their guidance. Sadly, however, there will always be those who abuse their power. In the hands of an unscrupulous person, damaging or frightening information could be imparted. It is always best to trust your intuition. If you don't 'feel right' about a Tarot reader, go elsewhere.
15. Is Tarot connected to witchcraft?
First of all, what is a 'witch'? In ancient times, witches were simply the herbalists, healers, midwives and seers of the community. They were the wise women of the village, attuned not only to the earth, but also to that inner power inherent in each and everyone of us. Somewhere along the way in our modern consumer society of instant gratification, we seem to have largely disconnected from that sixth sense which is as natural as our ability to see, to hear, to speak, to taste and to feel.
Those witches of the past who were tortured and burned were simply victims of religious intolerance. Tarot is widely used by people from all walks of life. Pagans and witches read tarot cards and gypsies have long used cards to predict the future. Tarot is also starting to emerge as a tool used by psychologists and counsellors in their practices.
16. And what about that awful ‘Death’ card? Does it indicate a physical death?
The 'Death' card rarely means a physical death. Rather, it means an ending, a total transformation prior to ‘rebirth’ on a higher spiritual level. Before we can move on to something new, something old has to ‘die’. Whether it be old habits, attitudes, beliefs or behaviour patterns, we need to surrender to a new way of being before we can move on. For a physical death to be indicated, other cards and factors would need to be present.
17. Does the ‘Devil’ card mean I am going to hell?
No. The 'Devil' card serves to draw our attention to the fact they we may have an unhealthy attachment to something on the physical plane that is not serving our soul well and is an obstacle to our spiritual growth. It reminds us that it is simply an 'illusion' that we have no choice when it comes to such matters as addiction to alcohol, drugs, food, sex or co-dependent relationships (to name just a few).
18. Does the ‘Tower’ card mean physical destruction?
When the 'Tower' card appears, we can expect some form of upheaval in our life, something that will literally 'shake us to our core'. It tends to express as a ‘lightning bolt right out of the blue’, a sudden and severe shakeup that is necessary to force us out of a state of inertia and onto the right path. It can indicate a physical event like an accident or building demolition. It can also signify divorce or bankruptcy. On the other hand, it may be purely on an inner level, such as a breakdown of old belief systems. Regardless of the way in which it manifests, it will be swift and chaotic, but in the long term beneficial to our growth.
19. Will using the Tarot cards help to develop my intuition?
Yes. The more you use the cards, the more you will start to open up and receive impressions which are not necessarily those from the pages of a book. Always trust in your intuition. It is a natural ability which lies within each and every one of us.
20. Do I need to perform any kind of ceremony before I begin a Tarot reading?
Everyone has their own form of ceremony when reading the cards and there is no right or wrong way. The important thing is to ensure you are in a peaceful state. You may like to say a little blessing over the cards and ask for guidance from whoever you feel is guiding you. Crystals, candles and incense all enhance the atmosphere. Whatever feels right for you is OK.
21. Do I need to store my Tarot cards in a certain way?
There is no right or wrong way in which to store cards. I keep mine in a silk pouch with a drawstring. These are readily available from 'new age' stores and online. Some like to keep them in a wooden box. Whatever feels right for you is fine.
22. Is there a Code of Ethics for a Tarot reader?
Tarot readers have a moral and spiritual responsibility to offer help and guidance and to promote self-understanding. They should never preach, make judgments or instil fear into their clients.
They should not give advice, but rather aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of underlying problematic behaviour. All guidance should be relayed in a manner that promotes hope. They should never predict events such as accidents, divorce or death, and certainly never give medical advice. If, for example, divorce was apparent in the cards, words such as “I feel there are some difficulties in your marriage …” are a gentler way of getting the message across than the shock the ‘divorce’ word may bring. This can be followed by some helpful guidance from surrounding cards.
In the case of a serious problem, professional advice should be encouraged, whether it be doctor, counsellor or lawyer. Clients should be made aware that no outcome is ever 'set in stone'. They always have free will to effect change of outcome.
The origins of Tarot are steeped in mystery. Although many legends surround the history of the cards, their precise origin is unknown. There are those who claim they originated in ancient Egypt; others say they came from the Romany Gypsies; there are claims they came from Atlantis; others say they descend from the Jewish Kabbalah. There is no evidence to validate any of these claims ... although it is impossible to ignore the correspondences between the Tarot and the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Historical records point to the emergence of Tarot as a card game called 'Tarocchi' in 14th century Italy.
4. What is a Tarot deck?
A traditional Tarot deck is comprised of 78 cards, divided into two sections:
* The 22 cards of the Major Arcana (meaning 'greater secrets')
* The 56 cards of the Minor Arcana (meaning 'lesser secrets'). The Minor Arcana is divided into four suits of 10 cards each – Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles, representing the four ancient elements of Fire, Water, Air and Earth. Included in these 56 cards are 16 court cards – a Page, Knight, Queen and King for each suit.
There are those who say that the 'Joker' card in the modern deck of playing cards comes from the 'Fool' card in the Tarot (the first card of the Major Arcana) and that the four suits descend from the four suits of the Minor Arcana. Other theories suggest just the opposite ... that the Minor Arcana descends from the playing cards. Although these theories have never been validated, it is intriguing to note the uncanny 'coincidence' of Wands (with Clubs), Cups (with Hearts), Swords (with Spades) and Pentacles (with Diamonds). Maybe these theories will be proven correct one day. Who knows?
Most modern Tarot decks feature images on all cards. However, many of the older decks display images on the Major Arcana only, requiring a knowledge of numerology in order to interpret the cards of the Minor Arcana. Some decks use different names for various cards. Tarot cards have correspondences to both astrology and numerology.
5. What is the fundamental meaning behind the cards of the Tarot?
Tarot speaks to us through the universal archetypes of the unconscious that are recognized by all humans. The cards of the Major Arcana represent major spiritual lessons that the soul needs to master on its evolutionary journey back to the oneness of Source. The cards of the Minor Arcana relate to matters of everyday physical life.
6. Does Tarot accurately predict the future?
The future is never ‘written in stone’. We always have free will. The Tarot reveals the energy at any given moment in time, showing the likely outcome should one continue on their present course. Those consulting a Tarot reader are more than likely seeking advice in relation to a problem or decision of some kind. Although Tarot does not predict definitive outcomes, it brings to light potentials and possibilities that may need to be explored. Although there will always be certain things going on around us that affect us, but over which we have little or no control, the cards can reveal ways in which to best deal with these issues.
7. Is it correct that I can only use a Tarot deck that has been given to me?
No. That is a complete myth. It is similar to the even more bizarre myth which says that in order for a deck to be of any use, it has to have been stolen! The origin of these strange ideas is a mystery.
8. Where do I buy a Tarot deck?
Tarot decks are widely available in 'new age' stores, conventional bookstores and online.
9. How do I choose a Tarot deck?
This is a completely personal choice. You may choose any deck to which you are drawn. However, I would suggest starting with one of the more traditional decks, such as the 'Rider-Waite'. It is rich in symbolism and is an excellent deck on which to learn. Once your knowledge and confidence increase, you can experiment with others.
10. How many Tarot decks are there?
There are literally thousands of Tarot decks on the market. An excellent website is Aeclectic Tarot.
11. What Tarot books should I read?
There are many excellent Tarot books on the market. It is preferable to study one or two quality books rather than too many, which may result in confusion. It is interesting to note that many are written by psychologists or counsellors of some kind.
12. Should I attend a Tarot course?
Tarot courses or workshops are an excellent way in which to learn, especially when it comes to putting it all together. The group interaction and experimentation with different spreads is very beneficial.
13. Why do some people read reversed Tarot cards and others do not?
The reading of reversed cards does not appear to be as prevalent in current times as it was in the past. Each card holds a full range of the expression of its energy, from its most positive right through to its most negative. Whether it is expressing in a positive or negative manner will depend on the other cards in the spread. The decision as to whether to read reversed cards is entirely up to the reader. There is no right or wrong way. However, I feel it is best to focus on the upright meanings until your knowledge and confidence increases.
14. Are Tarot cards evil?
How can a pack of cards be evil? No, they are not evil, but have been much maligned over the years through religious dogma and intolerance. They are a very enlightening tool for personal growth and the manner in which they are used depends entirely on the ethics of the reader. Tarot is merely a tool and the reader is simply tapping into his or her own intuition through the symbolic imagery of the cards.
Most Tarot readers are people of high integrity on a path of pure spiritual intent. They have a genuine interest in helping those who seek their guidance. Sadly, however, there will always be those who abuse their power. In the hands of an unscrupulous person, damaging or frightening information could be imparted. It is always best to trust your intuition. If you don't 'feel right' about a Tarot reader, go elsewhere.
15. Is Tarot connected to witchcraft?
First of all, what is a 'witch'? In ancient times, witches were simply the herbalists, healers, midwives and seers of the community. They were the wise women of the village, attuned not only to the earth, but also to that inner power inherent in each and everyone of us. Somewhere along the way in our modern consumer society of instant gratification, we seem to have largely disconnected from that sixth sense which is as natural as our ability to see, to hear, to speak, to taste and to feel.
Those witches of the past who were tortured and burned were simply victims of religious intolerance. Tarot is widely used by people from all walks of life. Pagans and witches read tarot cards and gypsies have long used cards to predict the future. Tarot is also starting to emerge as a tool used by psychologists and counsellors in their practices.
16. And what about that awful ‘Death’ card? Does it indicate a physical death?
The 'Death' card rarely means a physical death. Rather, it means an ending, a total transformation prior to ‘rebirth’ on a higher spiritual level. Before we can move on to something new, something old has to ‘die’. Whether it be old habits, attitudes, beliefs or behaviour patterns, we need to surrender to a new way of being before we can move on. For a physical death to be indicated, other cards and factors would need to be present.
17. Does the ‘Devil’ card mean I am going to hell?
No. The 'Devil' card serves to draw our attention to the fact they we may have an unhealthy attachment to something on the physical plane that is not serving our soul well and is an obstacle to our spiritual growth. It reminds us that it is simply an 'illusion' that we have no choice when it comes to such matters as addiction to alcohol, drugs, food, sex or co-dependent relationships (to name just a few).
18. Does the ‘Tower’ card mean physical destruction?
When the 'Tower' card appears, we can expect some form of upheaval in our life, something that will literally 'shake us to our core'. It tends to express as a ‘lightning bolt right out of the blue’, a sudden and severe shakeup that is necessary to force us out of a state of inertia and onto the right path. It can indicate a physical event like an accident or building demolition. It can also signify divorce or bankruptcy. On the other hand, it may be purely on an inner level, such as a breakdown of old belief systems. Regardless of the way in which it manifests, it will be swift and chaotic, but in the long term beneficial to our growth.
19. Will using the Tarot cards help to develop my intuition?
Yes. The more you use the cards, the more you will start to open up and receive impressions which are not necessarily those from the pages of a book. Always trust in your intuition. It is a natural ability which lies within each and every one of us.
20. Do I need to perform any kind of ceremony before I begin a Tarot reading?
Everyone has their own form of ceremony when reading the cards and there is no right or wrong way. The important thing is to ensure you are in a peaceful state. You may like to say a little blessing over the cards and ask for guidance from whoever you feel is guiding you. Crystals, candles and incense all enhance the atmosphere. Whatever feels right for you is OK.
21. Do I need to store my Tarot cards in a certain way?
There is no right or wrong way in which to store cards. I keep mine in a silk pouch with a drawstring. These are readily available from 'new age' stores and online. Some like to keep them in a wooden box. Whatever feels right for you is fine.
22. Is there a Code of Ethics for a Tarot reader?
Tarot readers have a moral and spiritual responsibility to offer help and guidance and to promote self-understanding. They should never preach, make judgments or instil fear into their clients.
They should not give advice, but rather aim to help clients gain a deeper understanding of underlying problematic behaviour. All guidance should be relayed in a manner that promotes hope. They should never predict events such as accidents, divorce or death, and certainly never give medical advice. If, for example, divorce was apparent in the cards, words such as “I feel there are some difficulties in your marriage …” are a gentler way of getting the message across than the shock the ‘divorce’ word may bring. This can be followed by some helpful guidance from surrounding cards.
In the case of a serious problem, professional advice should be encouraged, whether it be doctor, counsellor or lawyer. Clients should be made aware that no outcome is ever 'set in stone'. They always have free will to effect change of outcome.