Tarot cards have been around for centuries and have always been a source of fascination and mystery. However, along with the mystique surrounding them, there are also many myths and misconceptions about Tarot.
In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths about the Tarot.
Contrary to popular belief the humble playing card pre-dates the Tarot deck.
There are some who seek to claim an ancient history for the Tarot. They would also suggest that playing cards evolved from the arcane deck.
This is not the case.
Playing cards were created in China several hundred years before the cards we know as The Tarot.
The history of the Tarot is a fascinating and complex one, with origins dating back to the 15th century in Europe. The Tarot deck was originally used as a playing card game, similar to modern-day bridge or poker. It wasn't until the late 18th century that the Tarot began to be associated with divination and esoteric practices.
The Tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main sections - the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
The Major Arcana cards are 22 in number and represent significant life events and spiritual lesson However, if we remember that these cards were initially called "Trumps" you may get a sense of their origin.
The Minor Arcana cards are similar to a regular deck of playing cards, with four suits (Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands) and numbered cards from Ace to Ten, as well as Court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King).
Another myth about the Tarot is that its sole use is as a tool for fortune-telling.
Many people still believe that Tarot cards can be used to predict the future, an idea perpetuated by some Tarot “readers” and, of course, in horror stories.
Who can forget Peter Cushing as the stranger on a train reading the fortunes of his fellow travellers?
The truth is that Tarot cards are not meant to predict the future, but rather to provide guidance and insight into a person's current situation.
The Tarot can help individuals gain a better understanding of their own thoughts and emotions, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their future.
Another myth created by the fiction writer, is that the Tarot is associated with dark magic or witchcraft. While it is true that Tarot cards have been used in occult practices, they are not inherently linked to dark forces. In fact, the Tarot is simply a tool for self-reflection and personal growth, and can be used for positive and empowering purposes.
Whilst there are some agreed meanings given to the individual cards, interpretation is subjective and open to interpretation. This is one of the strengths of the cards. They are best thought of as “triggers” for unconscious or intuitive processes. Thus the meanings may vary depending on the individual's mindset and circumstances.
Some people seem to think that Tarot readings are only for those who possess psychic abilities or supernatural powers. This again is an idea promoted by some of those who offer readings at psyhcic fayres. They often preface their tarot reading abilities with words like "clairvoyant", "psychic", or "medium".
Now, I don't dislike these words just how they are used and misued by some who work from a place of egotism.
The reality is that anyone can learn to read Tarot cards with practice and dedication. The Tarot is a tool that can be used by anyone seeking guidance and clarity in their lives, regardless of their beliefs or background.
Over the centuries, the Tarot has been associated with various mystical and occult traditions, including Kabbalah, astrology, and alchemy. It has been used as a tool for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual growth by those seeking deeper insights into their own psyche and the world around them.
Today, the Tarot continues to be a popular tool for individuals seeking guidance and clarity in their lives. It has evolved to include a wide range of decks, each with its own unique imagery and symbolism.
Whether used for personal insight, spiritual practice the Tarot remains a powerful and enduring means of self-discovery and contemplation.
Quick Facts about the Tarot
The Tarot deck is believed to have originated in Italy in the 15th century, but its exact origins are shrouded in mystery.
The Tarot deck was originally created as a card game known as tarocchi, which was similar to modern-day games like bridge or poker.
The Tarot deck consists of 78 cards, with 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.
Each card in the Tarot deck has its own unique symbolism and meaning, which can vary depending on the deck and the reader's interpretation.
The Tarot has been associated with various mystical traditions, including astrology, Kabbalah, and alchemy.
Tarot readings are not meant to predict the future with certainty, but rather to provide guidance and insight into a person's current situation.
Anyone can learn to read Tarot cards with practice and dedication, regardless of their background or beliefs.
The Tarot is a versatile tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual exploration.
There are many different Tarot decks available today, each with its own unique themes, imagery, and symbolism.
The Tarot continues to be a popular and enduring tool for those seeking guidance and clarity in their lives.
Alan /|\
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