Tarot for Astrology: A Beginner’s Guide

For many people, the art of tarot reading may seem like an elusive and mysterious practice. And when tarot is combined with astrology, it may seem even more perplexing. However, once you begin to understand the connections between the two, tarot can become a powerful tool for gaining deeper insights into astrological concepts. In this guide, we will take a step-by-step look at how to read tarot for astrology, starting with understanding the connections between the two systems, choosing the right deck, preparing for a reading, interpreting the cards, and bringing it all together with a sample reading. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced tarot reader, this guide will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to unlock the secrets of tarot for astrology.

Understanding the Connections Between Tarot and Astrology

The art of tarot reading offers a unique perspective on the energies surrounding us, while astrology provides insights into the cosmic forces influencing our lives. What happens when we combine these two powerful tools? The answer lies in unlocking the fascinating connections between tarot and astrology. By understanding the links between the major and minor arcana and the zodiac signs and elements, we can gain a deeper knowledge of how they work together to reveal the mysteries of the universe. In this section, we will explore these connections in depth and learn how to integrate tarot and astrology to enhance our readings. To dive even deeper into the topic, check out soul purpose tarot and astrology, integrating your birth chart and tarot, the best tarot spreads for each zodiac sign, and using planetary energy to guide your tarot growth.

The Major Arcana and the Zodiac Signs

The Major Arcana, consisting of 22 cards, is an important element of tarot and has deep connections with astrology. Each card of this deck represents a different stage of human life, and together they create a unique narrative that can guide us in our journey. The Major Arcana also corresponds with different zodiac signs, adding another layer of meaning to the readings.

The Fool: The Fool is associated with the planet Uranus, which signifies unpredictability and change. This card is also related to the air signs Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.

The Magician: The Magician is linked to the planet Mercury, which represents communication and intellect. This card is associated with the signs of Virgo and Gemini.

The High Priestess: The High Priestess corresponds to the Moon, which symbolizes emotions and intuition. This card is connected with the water signs Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.

The Empress: The Empress is associated with the planet Venus, which represents love and beauty. The card corresponds to the signs of Taurus and Libra.

The Emperor: The Emperor is linked with the planet Mars, which represents power and action. This card is associated with the signs of Aries and Scorpio.

The Hierophant: The Hierophant corresponds to the planet Jupiter, which signifies wisdom and knowledge. This card is related to the signs of Sagittarius and Pisces.

The Lovers: The Lovers are associated with the planet Venus and the sign of Gemini, which signifies communication and duality.

The Chariot: The Chariot is linked with the planet Mars and the sign of Cancer. It represents determination, focus, and victory.

Strength: Strength corresponds to the sign of Leo, which represents courage, bravery, and leadership.

The Hermit: The Hermit is associated with the planet Mercury and the sign of Virgo. It represents introspection, solitude, and wisdom.

The Wheel of Fortune: The Wheel of Fortune is linked with the planet Jupiter and the sign of Sagittarius. It signifies changes, cycles, and luck.

Justice: Justice corresponds to the sign of Libra, which represents balance, harmony, and fairness.

The Hanged Man: The Hanged Man is associated with the planet Neptune and the sign of Pisces. It signifies sacrifice, surrender, and transformation.

Death: Death is linked with the sign of Scorpio, which represents endings, transformation, and rebirth.

Temperance: Temperance corresponds to the planet Mercury and the sign of Sagittarius. It signifies moderation, harmony, and balance.

The Devil: The Devil is associated with the sign of Capricorn, which represents materialism, temptation, and control.

The Tower: The Tower is linked with the planet Mars and the sign of Aries. It signifies chaos, upheaval, and change.

The Star: The Star corresponds to the planet Venus and the sign of Aquarius. It signifies hope, inspiration, and renewal.

The Moon: The Moon is associated with the sign of Cancer, which represents emotions, intuition, and mystery.

The Sun: The Sun is linked with the planet Sun and the sign of Leo. It signifies happiness, joy, and success.

Judgement: Judgement corresponds to the planet Pluto and the sign of Scorpio. It signifies transformation, rebirth, and awakening.

The World: The World is associated with the planet Saturn and the sign of Capricorn. It signifies completion, fulfillment, and achievement.

Understanding the connections between the Major Arcana and the zodiac signs is vital in astrology tarot readings as it allows for a more profound understanding of the messages conveyed by the cards.

The Minor Arcana and the Four Elements

The Minor Arcana is a vital component of Tarot and is divided into four suits, which correspond to the four elements: Wands represent fire, Cups represent water, Swords represent air, and Pentacles represent earth. Each suit is associated with specific astrological signs and can provide valuable insight into the querent’s life.

When reading tarot for astrology, understanding the role of the four elements in the Minor Arcana is critical. Each suit is connected to qualities that correspond to the elements they represent:

– The Wands suit is associated with fire and represents energy, creativity, action, and passion. This suit is linked to the astrological signs of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, making it useful for readings that focus on these signs.

– The Cups suit is linked to water and represents emotions, intuition, relationships, and spirituality. This suit is associated with the astrological signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces and is ideal for readings that deal with these signs.

– The Swords suit is linked to air and represents logic, intellect, communication, and challenges. This suit is associated with the astrological signs of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, making it ideal for readings that focus on these signs.

– The Pentacles suit is linked to earth and represents material possessions, finances, health, and practicality. This suit is associated with the astrological signs of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, making it useful for readings that deal with these signs.

Understanding the role of the Minor Arcana and the four elements can help readers provide more accurate, in-depth, and insightful readings. Each suit can provide different perspectives and interpretations, offering a holistic approach to the querent’s situation. By incorporating the Minor Arcana and the four elements into readings, tarot readers can deepen their understanding and connection with the querent and provide valuable guidance for their journey.

Choosing the Right Tarot Deck for Astrology

When it comes to reading Tarot for astrology, choosing the right Tarot deck is crucial. The Tarot decks available in the market come in different styles, shapes, and sizes. Each of them has its unique images, symbolism, and interpretations, which can affect the outcome of your reading. It is essential to choose a deck that resonates with you and your approach to astrology.

Choosing a deck based on its imagery: Some Tarot decks feature traditional imagery, while others take a more modern or abstract approach. If you’re familiar with astrology, you can choose a deck with zodiac signs, planets, or celestial bodies that align with your understanding of astrology.

Choosing a deck based on its symbolism: Different Tarot decks use various symbols to represent different concepts. For example, some decks use roses to symbolize love, while others use doves. If you’re a seasoned astrologer, you can choose a deck with symbols that you understand and are familiar with in your astrology practice.

Choosing a deck based on its interpretation: Each Tarot deck can have a unique interpretation of the cards. Some focus more on the traditional meanings, while others have a more spiritual or mystical approach. If you resonate with a specific Tarot deck’s interpretations, you may find it easier to interpret the cards in a way that aligns with your astrology practice.

Choosing a deck based on its structure: There are two main types of Tarot decks: the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) Tarot and the Thoth Tarot. The RWS Tarot is the most popular and widely used Tarot deck, and it has a structured system with traditional meanings for each card. On the other hand, the Thoth Tarot is based on the principles of the Hermetic Qabalah and has a more abstract and esoteric structure. Depending on your level of experience, you may choose a deck that aligns with your knowledge and comfort level.

When choosing a Tarot deck for astrology readings, it’s essential to choose a deck that resonates with your astrology practice and your personal preferences. You can start with a traditional deck like the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot or explore different decks with zodiac signs, planets, or celestial bodies. With the right Tarot deck, you can enhance your astrological insights and create a more meaningful connection with the cards.

Preparing for a Tarot Reading for Astrology

As you get ready to dive into the world of tarot reading for astrology, one of the most important steps you need to take is to properly prepare for your readings. This means having a clear intention for the reading, selecting the right spread to answer your questions, and making sure your tarot deck is properly shuffled and cleared. These steps are crucial in order to ensure that the reading accurately reflects the cosmic energies at play and provides you with the guidance and insights you need. So, let’s explore each of these steps in detail, and discover how to prepare for a tarot reading for astrology like a pro.

Setting the Intention

Before starting any Tarot reading for astrology, it’s essential to set a clear intention for the session. This step is crucial in creating an energetic connection between the Tarot cards and the astrological concepts guiding the reading. Here are some steps to follow when setting your intention:

• Think about the purpose of the reading: Consider why you’re seeking a Tarot reading for astrology. Is it to gain insight into your current situation or to find guidance and direction? This step is all about reflecting on what you hope to achieve with the reading.
• Visualize the outcome: Once you’ve identified the purpose, visualize the desired outcome of the reading. What kind of clarity or guidance do you want to receive from the Tarot cards? Make a mental picture of how you want the reading to help you.
• Frame your thoughts: As you set your intention, use positive framing and affirmations. Instead of saying “I don’t want to feel lost,” say “I want to feel guided and grounded.” This shift in language can make a significant difference in the outcome of the reading.
• Use visualization techniques: Some people find it helpful to hold a specific crystal or Tarot card while setting their intention, while others prefer to visualize a white light surrounding them. Whatever technique you use, ensure that it resonates and feels right for you.
• Repeat the intention: Once you’ve set your intention, repeat it to yourself or out loud several times. This step helps to cement the intention into your subconscious and creates a stronger energetic connection between you and the Tarot cards.

Remember that setting an intention is a crucial step in any Tarot reading for astrology. By following these simple steps, you can create a clear and focused intention that will help guide you through the reading and provide the insights and guidance you’re seeking.

Choosing the Spread

Choosing the right spread is an important part of preparing for a tarot reading for astrology. A spread is the layout of the tarot cards, which are placed in a specific pattern that guides the interpretation of the reading.

There are many different Tarot spreads to choose from, each with its own unique purpose and structure. Some popular tarot spreads for astrology include:

Spread Name	Purpose
The Zodiac Spread	This spread uses all 78 cards in the deck and is designed to provide an in-depth look at the querent’s astrological chart, including their Sun, Moon, and rising signs.
The Astrological Wheel Spread	This spread features 12 cards that are arranged in a circular pattern to represent the 12 houses of the astrological wheel. Each card corresponds to a specific house and provides insight into the energies influencing that area of the querent’s life.
The Planetary Spread	This spread uses 7 cards, each representing one of the traditional planets of astrology (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn). The cards are arranged in a linear pattern to provide insight into the querent’s current planetary influences.
The Four Elements Spread	This spread features 4 cards, each representing one of the four elements of astrology (Fire, Earth, Air, and Water). The cards are arranged in a cross pattern to provide insight into the querent’s current elemental influences.

When choosing a spread, consider the purpose of the reading and the questions you want to ask the cards. Some spreads are more focused on general insights, while others are designed to address specific areas of life, such as love, career, or personal growth. It’s also important to consider the complexity of the spread and your own skill level as a reader. If you’re new to tarot, it may be best to start with a simpler spread before moving on to more complex ones.

Ultimately, the right spread for your tarot reading for astrology will depend on your individual needs and intentions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spreads and see which ones work best for you. With practice and patience, you’ll find that the right spread can be a powerful tool for unlocking the insight and guidance of the tarot.

Shuffling and Clearing the Deck

It is important to shuffle and clear the tarot deck before beginning an astrology reading. Here are some steps to follow:

• Step 1: Clear your mind. Take a few deep breaths and clear your mind of any distractions or negative energy.
• Step 2: Clear the deck. Some readers like to use a clearing ritual to remove any previous energies or influences from the deck. You can do this by smudging the deck with sage or palo santo, or by placing the deck in a bag of salt or burying it in the earth for a few hours.
• Step 3: Shuffle the deck. Shuffle the deck thoroughly while focusing on your intention for the reading. You can shuffle in any way that feels comfortable to you – some readers prefer to riffle shuffle, while others prefer to shuffle more gently.
• Step 4: Cut the deck. Once you feel that the deck has been sufficiently shuffled, cut it into three piles and then re-stack them.
• Step 5: Choose the cards. Depending on the reading spread you have chosen, draw the necessary number of cards from the top of the deck.

Remember that the way in which you shuffle and clear your deck is a personal preference. The key is to approach tarot reading with intention and focus, and to create an environment in which you feel connected to the cards and open to their messages.

Interpreting Tarot Cards for Astrology Readings

As you begin to interpret the tarot cards for astrology readings, you may feel a sense of both excitement and uncertainty. It’s natural to feel a bit perplexed, as tarot and astrology have their own unique languages and symbols. However, with practice and patience, you can learn to link the tarot cards to astrological concepts and decipher their meanings within a reading. In this section, we’ll explore the key steps to interpreting tarot cards for astrology readings, including understanding the card meanings, linking them to astrology, and reading reversed cards. So, grab your tarot deck and let’s dive in!

Understanding the Card Meanings

In order to give an accurate tarot reading for astrology, it’s crucial to understand the meanings behind each card. Below is a table featuring the 22 cards of the major arcana along with their traditional interpretations:

Card	Traditional Interpretation
The Fool	Beginnings, innocence, spontaneity
The Magician	Manifestation, power, confidence
The High Priestess	Intuition, mystery, subconscious mind
The Empress	Nurturing, abundance, fertility
The Emperor	Structure, authority, leadership
The Hierophant	Tradition, spirituality, mentorship
The Lovers	Love, harmony, partnership
The Chariot	Motivation, willpower, determination
Strength	Resilience, courage, self-control
The Hermit	Soul-searching, solitude, introspection
Wheel of Fortune	Change, cycles, fate
Justice	Fairness, truth, balance
The Hanged Man	Surrender, release, sacrifice
Death	Transformation, endings, rebirth
Temperance	Moderation, harmony, blending
The Devil	Bondage, addiction, materialism
The Tower	Disaster, upheaval, revelation
The Star	Hope, inspiration, spirituality
The Moon	Intuition, fear, illusion
The Sun	Vitality, joy, positivity
Judgement	Awakening, rebirth, redemption
The World	Completion, achievement, wholeness

Keep in mind that each tarot card can have many possible interpretations and can vary depending on the context of the reading. It’s important to trust your intuition and connect with the cards in a way that feels authentic to you.

Linking the Cards to Astrological Concepts

Once you have a basic understanding of tarot card meanings, you can start linking them to astrological concepts. Here are some ways to link the cards to astrology:

• The Fool: The Fool is associated with the planet Uranus, which represents sudden change, rebellion, and freedom.
• The Magician: The Magician is associated with Mercury, the planet of communication and intellect.
• The High Priestess: The High Priestess is associated with the Moon, which represents intuition, emotions, and the unconscious.
• The Empress: The Empress is associated with Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and abundance.
• The Emperor: The Emperor is associated with Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, which represents leadership, authority, and ambition.
• The Hierophant: The Hierophant is associated with Taurus, which represents tradition, structure, and stability.
• The Lovers: The Lovers are associated with Gemini, the sign of duality, communication, and relationships.
• The Chariot: The Chariot is associated with Cancer, the sign of emotions, family, and home.
• Strength: Strength is associated with Leo, the sign of courage, self-expression, and creativity.
• The Hermit: The Hermit is associated with Virgo, the sign of introspection, healing, and service.
• Justice: Justice is associated with Libra, the sign of balance, harmony, and diplomacy.
• The Hanged Man: The Hanged Man is associated with Neptune, the planet of dreams, illusions, and spiritual awakening.
• Death: Death is associated with Scorpio, the sign of transformation, regeneration, and intense emotions.
• Temperance: Temperance is associated with Sagittarius, the sign of expansion, adventure, and higher knowledge.
• The Devil: The Devil is associated with Capricorn, the sign of materialism, discipline, and limitation.
• The Tower: The Tower is associated with Mars, the planet of action, aggression, and conflict.
• The Star: The Star is associated with Aquarius, the sign of innovation, independence, and humanitarianism.
• The Moon: The Moon is associated with Pisces, the sign of imagination, intuition, and spirituality.
• The Sun: The Sun is associated with the Sun (of course!), the source of vitality, creativity, and self-expression.
• Judgment: Judgment is associated with Pluto, the planet of transformation, rebirth, and power.
• The World: The World is associated with Saturn, the planet of lessons, challenges, and discipline.

By linking the cards to astrological concepts, you can enhance the depth and accuracy of your tarot readings for astrology.

Reading Reversed Cards

When a tarot card appears reversed in a reading, it can indicate something different from its upright meaning. Here are some tips for reading reversed cards in a tarot reading for astrology:

• Look at the symbols: What symbols are present in the reversed card? Are they twisted or upside down? Pay attention to any changes from the upright position, as they may provide clues to the reversed meaning.
• Consider the opposite: Reversed cards may suggest the opposite of the upright meaning. For example, the upright Sun card could represent success and joy, while the reversed Sun card could indicate setbacks and negativity.
• Pay attention to your intuition: Your intuition can provide valuable insights into the meaning of the reversed card. Trust yourself and any gut feelings you may have about the card.
• Interpret in the context of the reading: Consider the other cards in the reading when interpreting a reversed card. How do they relate to one another? Do they confirm or contradict the reversed card’s meaning?
• Don’t always assume the worst: While reversed cards can often indicate challenges or obstacles, they can also have positive meanings. For example, the reversed Death card could represent new beginnings and transformations.

Remember, reading reversed cards in a tarot reading for astrology requires practice and intuition. Trust yourself and keep open to different interpretations.

Bringing It All Together: A Sample Tarot Reading for Astrology

Let’s bring all our knowledge of tarot for astrology together by exploring a sample reading. Keep in mind that this is just an example, and your own readings may look quite different.

Question: What areas of my life will be affected by the upcoming Jupiter retrograde in Sagittarius?

Spread: We’ll use the three-card spread to look at the past, present, and future.

Card 1 – Past: The Chariot reversed. This card can represent control issues, lack of direction, or feeling stuck. It’s possible that in the past, the querent has had trouble moving forward in certain areas of their life.

Card 2 – Present: The Tower. This card often indicates a big shake-up or sudden change. It can be a difficult card, but it can also indicate that the universe is clearing the way for something better.

Card 3 – Future: The Sun reversed. This is a card that’s usually very positive when upright, representing joy, happiness, and optimism. However, when reversed, it can suggest that the querent may face some challenges in achieving these things.

Overall interpretation: The upcoming Jupiter retrograde is likely to bring some upheaval and disruption to the querent’s life, possibly related to their sense of direction and control. However, this may ultimately clear the way for something better. The querent should be aware that they may face some challenges in finding happiness during this time.

Remember, tarot readings should always be taken with a grain of salt, and the interpretation of the cards is ultimately up to the reader and the querent. Trust your intuition, and don’t be afraid to let the cards guide you to unexpected insights.

Tips for Improving Your Tarot Reading for Astrology Skills

Improving your tarot reading skills for astrology requires a lot of practice, patience and dedication. Here are some tips to help you enhance your abilities:

1. Study astrology: Having a good understanding of astrology will help you establish a deeper connection between the tarot cards and astrological concepts. The more you learn about astrology, the better you’ll be able to read the cards in relation to the zodiac signs and planets.

2. Meditate before a reading: Take a few minutes to clear your mind and set your intention before starting a tarot reading for astrology. This will help you establish a stronger connection with your intuition and enhance your ability to interpret the cards.

3. Practice regularly: Like any skill, practice makes perfect. Try to incorporate tarot readings into your daily routine, even if it’s just a quick one-card pull in the morning. The more you practice, the more familiar you’ll become with the cards and their meanings.

4. Keep a tarot journal: Recording your tarot readings in a journal can help you track your progress and identify patterns in your interpretations. This can also be a useful tool for reflecting on your readings and gaining insight into your own thought processes.

5. Connect with other tarot readers: Joining a tarot community or attending tarot workshops can be a great way to connect with other readers and learn new techniques for interpreting the cards. Hearing other perspectives on the tarot can also help you develop your own unique approach to tarot reading for astrology.

6. Trust your intuition: Remember that tarot reading for astrology is a highly intuitive practice. While it’s important to have a good understanding of the cards and astrological concepts, don’t be afraid to trust your own instincts when interpreting a reading.

By following these tips, you can enhance your tarot reading skills for astrology and become a more confident and effective reader. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results – improving your skills takes time and effort. Trust in your abilities and keep practicing, and you’ll soon start to see progress in your readings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, delving into the world of tarot for astrology can be a fascinating and enlightening journey. By exploring the connections between the Tarot and astrological concepts, choosing the right deck, and learning to interpret the cards, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the universe around you.

Remember to approach tarot readings with an open mind and heart, and always respect the power of the cards. Setting a clear intention, choosing the right spread, and taking the time to shuffle and clear the deck can all help to create a successful and insightful reading.

As with any skill, improving your tarot reading for astrology abilities takes time and practice. Try experimenting with different spreads, using different decks, and learning about the meanings of the different cards in relation to astrology.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to trust your intuition and allow yourself to connect with the cards on a deep level. With dedication and an open mind, your tarot readings for astrology can become a powerful tool for self-discovery and enlightenment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tarot?

Tarot is a type of divination that uses a deck of cards to gain insight and guidance on various aspects of life, including love, career, and spirituality.

What is Astrology?

Astrology is the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial objects to gain insight and guidance on personal and world events.

How are Tarot and Astrology connected?

Tarot and astrology are both forms of divination that can be used in combination to gain deeper insight and understanding of important questions and situations.

How can Tarot be used in Astrology readings?

Tarot can be used to provide additional guidance and insight on specific questions or situations relating to astrological concepts, such as planetary transits or zodiac signs.

What are the Major Arcana in Tarot?

The Major Arcana are a set of 22 cards in a Tarot deck that represent significant archetypal energies and have corresponding meanings.

What are the Minor Arcana in Tarot?

The Minor Arcana are a set of 56 cards in a Tarot deck that are divided into four suits and represent more day-to-day energies and situations.

What are the Four Elements in Tarot?

The Four Elements in Tarot are Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, and they correspond to the four suits in the Minor Arcana.

How do I choose the right Tarot deck for Astrology?

Choosing a Tarot deck for Astrology depends on personal preference and resonation with the deck’s symbolism and energy. Look for decks that include astrological associations or themes.

What is a Tarot spread?

A Tarot spread is a specific layout or arrangement of cards that is used to answer a particular question or provide guidance on a specific situation.

How can I improve my Tarot reading for Astrology skills?

Practice, study, and continuing education can help improve your Tarot reading for Astrology skills. Consider joining a Tarot or Astrology community or taking courses to deepen your knowledge and understanding.

References

• Astrology and Tarot for Beginners: A Complete Guide to …
• Tarot card reading