Do you believe in Tarot?

To be or not to be!

Can your future lie in a bunch of cards?

I have always been intrigued by tarot cards, not just because of the whole mystical aspect of it but also because of the artistry involved in creating such dynamic cards.

I haven’t been a big believer of them though as I’ve always felt — you reap what you sow. If you work hard, you get results; if you don’t, you won’t. I have literally lived all my life trying, constantly, even if it hasn't always reached ‘fame level’ success (it has at some points for sure). It has given me a lot to think about, a lot of skill growth, consistency, good use of time and definitely a lot of appreciation, support and respect.

There were some points in my life where I did go for readings, but the readings were not very accurate and created more confusion than clarity in my head. Some of the readings were very generic, some which any person who spends a little bit of time with me could decipher. And some have been negative readings or ones that told me to do things that I couldn’t realistically do at that point in life. So, I guess I prefer to live with some sort of control, intrinsic direction and rationality but leave most of it to the universe, considering where I am now, my current circumstances and the fact that not much is in our hands anyways.

So why tarot? Well, as most things in my life- pure curiosity and the interest to learn more!

The origins of tarot are not entirely clear, and its history is subject to debate among scholars and historians. However, here’s a brief overview of the most widely accepted theories about the origin of tarot.

Tarot cards are believed to have evolved from playing cards that were introduced to Europe from the Islamic world in the late 14th century. These early playing cards had suits similar to modern tarot decks, such as cups, swords, coins, and batons or wands.

The earliest documented tarot decks originated in Italy in the 15th century. The Visconti-Sforza tarot decks, created in the 15th century, are among the oldest surviving examples. These early tarot decks were luxury items commissioned by noble families and were used for playing a game similar to bridge or modern-day tarot card games.

While tarot initially served as playing cards, the practice of using tarot cards for divination likely emerged later. The earliest known reference to tarot cards being used for divination comes from a manuscript written in 1750 by French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette, who published tarot cards under the pseudonym “Etteilla” and wrote about their use in fortune-telling.

Tarot gained popularity in occult circles during the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly with the publication of “The Pictorial Key to the Tarot” by A.E. Waite and Pamela Colman Smith in 1910. This deck, known as the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck, became one of the most widely used and influential tarot decks in the world.

The effectiveness of tarot reading depends on one’s belief system and interpretation. For some people, tarot readings can provide valuable insights, guidance, and introspection. Others may view tarot as purely symbolic or entertaining.

Many believe that tarot works through the interpretation of symbols and archetypes, tapping into the subconscious mind. The cards can serve as a tool for self-reflection and exploration, helping individuals uncover hidden thoughts, emotions, or patterns.

Tarot readers often rely on intuition and personal connection with the cards to provide guidance. They may use their intuition to interpret the imagery and symbolism of the cards in relation to the querent’s question or situation.

Some practitioners believe in the concept of synchronicity, proposed by Carl Jung, where meaningful coincidences occur without a direct causal relationship. In this view, the cards drawn in a tarot reading are not random but reflect the querent’s subconscious or the universe’s guidance.

Regardless of whether one believes in supernatural elements, tarot readings can empower individuals to make decisions, gain clarity, and take responsibility for their lives. The process of reflecting on the cards can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth.

I do believe this happens. I joined a course just to understand how tarot works and here are my thoughts on it. Firstly, the cards are wonderful. It’s really amazing to see how each of the cards stand for a certain stage in life. The person or people who created them must have really thought it through. The cards also seemed to represent very significant points in our lives and phases we go through as individuals, so it’s quite easy to say that every reading you do for people will be relatable, no matter what, as the cards talk about the large phases and nuances in each phase that everyone invariably goes through.

I also saw a cyclic nature of these cards as they encompass all that we experience in life. We all run on this sinusoidal wave, experiencing all these different emotions and phases in life. The good and the bad, the positive and negative keep oscillating, nothing permanent, but each of these phases have to be handled with grace. And the good moments are to be cherished when they come. Don’t forget that.

The card deck is majorly divided into two sections: Major and Minor Arcana.

Major Arcana: This section consists of 22 cards, each bearing a unique symbolic image representing significant life themes, archetypal energies, and spiritual lessons. The Major Arcana cards typically deal with profound life events, personal transformation, and spiritual awakening. Eg. The Empress card, the Fool, Judgement card, etc.

Minor Arcana: This section consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles (or Coins), Swords, and Wands (or Rods). Each suit contains ten numbered cards (Ace through Ten) and four Court Cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). The Minor Arcana cards typically deal with everyday aspects of life, such as emotions, relationships, work, and challenges.

So how do you get good at reading them and interpretation?

Many people begin by studying the traditional meanings and symbolism associated with each Tarot card. They may explore various interpretations from different sources, such as books, online resources, or courses. Through this process, individuals deepen their understanding of the cards’ archetypal meanings and symbolism.

As individuals engage with the Tarot cards, they may reflect on how each card resonates with their own experiences, emotions, and perceptions. They might relate certain cards to significant events or themes in their lives, allowing for personal insights and connections to emerge. This also comes with daily study and understanding how the card picking is relating to your daily on goings.

I have a diary I maintain, talking about how the cards I pick relate to my day. They don’t always do, but there are mindful connections you can make which will allow you to break bad patterns or understand how you might have to change your perspective on certain situations. It gives you a sort of world view guidance that you’ll have to accept and tap into. It feels uplifting, even if the cards are negative, as you have at least identified that something is going wrong, and you have to work on it for the better.

Tarot reading often involves tapping into one’s intuition and inner wisdom. As one practice reading Tarot cards, they may develop a heightened sense of intuition and learn to trust their inner guidance. They may find that certain cards evoke intuitive responses or insights that go beyond the traditional meanings.

Some readers relate to Tarot cards through creative expression, such as art, journaling, or storytelling. They might create their interpretations of the cards through drawing, painting, or writing, allowing for a deeper exploration of the cards’ symbolism and themes.

For many, Tarot serves as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery. As one engages with the cards, they may uncover hidden aspects of themselves, gain clarity on life situations, and explore potential paths for growth and transformation. Each Tarot reading becomes an opportunity for self-reflection and empowerment.

Engaging with Tarot cards can also be a communal experience. Many readers participate in Tarot communities, online forums, or local groups where they can share insights, interpretations, and experiences with like-minded individuals. This sense of community fosters learning, support, and camaraderie among Tarot enthusiasts.

As Tarot continues to evolve and adapt to the modern world, its popularity persists, attracting seekers from all walks of life who seek clarity, guidance, and meaning in an ever-changing world. Whether drawn to its mystical allure, its psychological depth, or its profound spiritual insights, those who engage with Tarot often find themselves on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

In the end, Tarot remains a timeless tool for exploration and reflection — a mirror to the soul, reflecting the depths of human experience and the mysteries of the universe. As we shuffle the cards and embark on the journey of the Tarot, may we find wisdom, illumination, and a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.