Diving In: The Deeper Meanings Behind Tarot Cards
Written by: Rayanne Morriss
Tarot cards have been in use for centuries and are a popular tool for divination and self-discovery. The images on the cards are rich in symbolism, and each card has a unique meaning that can be interpreted in various ways. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the meanings of tarot cards, exploring the history of tarot, the different types of tarot cards, the symbolism in tarot cards, and how to read tarot cards. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the fascinating world of tarot and be able to use these cards to gain insights into yourself and the world around you.
History of Tarot Cards
The exact origin of tarot cards is unclear, but it’s believed that they were first used in Italy during the 15th century. Originally, tarot cards were used for playing games, but eventually, they became associated with divination and the occult. Tarot cards were popularized by the French occultist Eliphas Levi, in the 19th century, and from there, they gained widespread popularity.
The tarot deck consists of 78 cards, which are divided into two categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, which represent major life events and spiritual insights. The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, which represent daily life and everyday events. Each card has a unique meaning, and the combination of cards in a reading can provide insight into a person’s past, present, and future.
Types of Tarot Cards and Their Meanings
The Major Arcana cards are some of the most well-known and recognizable tarot cards. Each card in the Major Arcana represents a significant life event or spiritual insight. For example, The Fool represents new beginnings, while The Lovers represent relationships and choices. The Major Arcana cards can be used to gain insight into major life events and spiritual experiences.
The Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits: Cups, Swords, Wands, and Pentacles. Each suit represents a different aspect of life. Cups represent emotions and relationships, Swords represent thoughts and communication, Wands represent creativity and passion, and Pentacles represent material possessions and physical manifestations. The Minor Arcana cards can be used to gain insight into everyday events and situations. Since there are more Minor Arcana cards than there are Major Arcana, it’s important to learn the meanings and be able to differentiate between each. You can look up meanings for your cards, such as the four of wands or ace of cups meaning to find detailed information about each.
Understanding the Symbolism in Tarot Cards
The images on tarot cards are rich in symbolism, and each card has a unique meaning that can be interpreted in various ways. For example, The Tower card depicts a tower being struck by lightning, which represents sudden upheaval and change. The Devil card depicts a figure with horns and a tail, which represents temptation and materialism. Understanding the symbolism in tarot cards is key to interpreting their meanings accurately.
How to Read Tarot Cards
Reading tarot cards can be done in a variety of ways, and there is no one “right” way to do it. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed to ensure an accurate reading. First, it’s important to have a clear question or intention in mind before doing a reading. Second, shuffle the cards and choose a spread that fits the question or intention. There are many different spreads to choose from, such as the Celtic Cross or the Three-Card Spread. Finally, interpret the cards based on their meanings and the spread.
Tarot Card Spreads
Tarot card spreads are a way of laying out the cards to gain insight into a specific question or situation. There are many different spreads to choose from, each with its own unique purpose. For example, the Celtic Cross spread is a popular spread that provides a comprehensive view of a situation, while the Three-Card Spread is a simple spread that provides quick answers to yes/no questions. Choosing the right spread for a specific question or situation is key to getting an accurate reading.
Tips for Accurate Tarot Card Readings
There are many things to keep in mind when doing a tarot card reading to ensure accuracy. First, it’s important to have a clear question or intention in mind before starting the reading. Second, it’s important to remain focused and present during the reading, avoiding distractions and interruptions. Finally, it’s important to trust your intuition and interpret the cards based on their meanings and the spread. With practice and patience, anyone can become skilled at reading tarot cards.
Tarot cards are a fascinating tool for self-discovery and divination. The images on the cards are rich in symbolism, and each card has a unique meaning that can be interpreted in various ways. By understanding the history of tarot, the different types of tarot cards, the symbolism in tarot cards, and how to read tarot cards, anyone can gain insight into themselves and the world around them. Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or just starting out, the world of tarot is waiting to be explored.