Learn the basics of tarot cards
Tarot is a divination tool consisting of 78 cards. Originating in 15th century Europe, it's used worldwide for self-reflection and insight.
Tarot doesn't predict the future exactly, but helps you see your current situation from different perspectives and discover inner wisdom.
Major Arcana (22 cards)
22 main cards from The Fool (0) to The World (21). They represent major life transitions, spiritual lessons, and the big picture.
Minor Arcana (56 cards)
Divided into 4 suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles), each with Ace through 10 and court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King).
Passion, creativity, action, will
Emotions, relationships, love, intuition
Thought, communication, conflict, truth
Material, finance, health, reality
Upright
Represents the card's original meaning. Generally indicates positive energy or natural flow.
Reversed
The card is upside down. Can indicate blocked energy, internalization, or opposite meaning. Not necessarily negative, but indicates areas needing attention.
A spread determines how to interpret cards in a specific order and meaning.
3-Card Spread
• Timeline: Past - Present - Future
• Relationship: Self - Other - Connection
• Situation & Advice: Situation - Obstacle - Advice
5-Card Spread
• Cross: Center (present) with past, future, ideal, foundation
• Deep Relationship: Self, other, past, present, future analysis
7-Card Spread
• Horseshoe: Overall flow and hidden influences
• Weekly: Energy for each day Monday through Sunday
Tarot provides richer answers to open questions than "yes/no" questions.
Not recommended: "Does that person like me?"
Recommended: "What should I know about my relationship with them?"
Not recommended: "Should I change jobs?"
Recommended: "What factors should I consider in my career decision?"