Tarot Cards and Astrology: How They Work Together

Exploring the mystical worlds of tarot and astrology can be both exciting and overwhelming. These interrelated disciplines have been used for centuries to provide guidance and insights into the human condition, delving deep into the realms of the subconscious and the unknown. Understanding the connections between the two can seem like an insurmountable task, but with a bit of patience and an open mind, one can gain invaluable insights into their life’s journey. In this article, we will take a step-by-step approach to unraveling the mysteries of tarot and astrology and explore how they can be used in tandem for better clarity and understanding. So, let’s dive into the world of tarot and astrology and discover the magic that lies within.

Understanding Tarot Cards

As we delve into the mystical world of divination, tarot cards have remained a popular tool used to gain insight and guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or just starting out, understanding the intricacies of tarot cards and their relationship with astrology can elevate your readings to new heights. The Tarot is an ancient oracle, and while it is a divination tool, it is also a mirror reflecting the subconscious. In this section, we will explore the basics of tarot cards, how they work, and their major and minor arcana. To learn more about how tarot can be used in connection with astrology, check out Tarot and the Zodiac, Tarot Spreads for Astrological Guidance, or Tarot and Planetary Influences.

What are Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are a deck of 78 cards that are used for divination and spiritual guidance. The cards are divided into two sections: Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, while the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards. Each card has its own symbolism and interpretation that can provide insights into different aspects of life.

The cards are often associated with mysticism and are believed to have originated in Egypt, although their exact origins are unknown. They were first introduced in Europe in the 14th century, where they were used for card games before becoming associated with divination.

The Major Arcana: These cards are considered the most important cards in the deck and represent major life events and archetypes. The cards include The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, The Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, Judgment, and The World.

The Minor Arcana: These cards are divided into four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles) and represent everyday events and experiences. Each suit consists of 14 cards, including an Ace, nine numbered cards, and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King).

Tarot cards can provide powerful insights into different aspects of life and can be a useful tool for understanding oneself and the world around them. For those interested in exploring the connections between Tarot and astrology, there are many resources available online, such as astrological transits in tarot readings, or using tarot cards with lunar cycles.

How Tarot Cards Work

Tarot cards work based on the concept of divination, which is a practice used for gaining insight and guidance to aid in decision-making. Tarot cards consist of 78 individual cards in a deck, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism. These cards are divided into the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana.

The Major Arcana cards represent significant life events and transitions, such as “The Fool” representing new beginnings and “The Death” representing major transformations. On the other hand, the Minor Arcana cards represent the everyday struggles and challenges that one may face in life, such as love, finances, and relationships. There are four suits in the Minor Arcana: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.

When conducting a tarot reading, the reader shuffles the deck and draws cards based on the question or situation at hand. The cards are then laid out in a specific pattern known as a tarot spread. The reader uses their intuition and knowledge of the cards’ meanings to interpret the message they are receiving. The message is not predetermined but is rather influenced by the reader’s interpretation and the querent’s (person receiving the reading) energy.

It is important to note that tarot cards do not predict the future but offer insight and guidance based on the present situation. Tarot readings can be used for self-discovery, problem-solving, and gaining clarity on a situation. Through the use of symbolism represented in the cards, one can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Incorporating astrology into tarot readings can further enhance the depth and complexity of the message received. By understanding the astrological correspondences of the cards, a reader can connect the querent’s birth chart and current astrological transits to the meaning of the cards drawn. This understanding can offer a more nuanced and personalized reading. For example, drawing “The Tower” card during a time of a Uranus retrograde may indicate unexpected upheaval and change. Similarly, drawing the “Ten of Pentacles” during a Venus retrograde may suggest a time of reflection and reevaluation of relationships and material possessions.

By blurring the lines between tarot and astrology, one can gain a deeper understanding of their inner self and the impact of external factors on their life. This can provide a unique opportunity for growth and self-discovery. To learn more about the connection between tarot and astrology, check out our article on tarot cards and astrology houses or tarot vs astrology. Additionally, for a deeper understanding of retrogrades and planetary movements, check out our article on tarot and planetary retrogrades.

Major and Minor Arcana

The Tarot deck is divided into two main groups of cards: the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of the 22 trump cards numbered from 0 to 21, while the Minor Arcana consists of 56 suit cards divided into four suits – Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each card in the deck has a unique meaning and symbolism, and it is essential to understand both the Major and Minor Arcana to interpret a tarot reading accurately.

The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana cards are among the most powerful and significant in the Tarot deck. These cards depict the journey of the Fool, the main character in the Tarot, as he encounters challenges and lessons in life. The Major Arcana cards represent archetypes and universal themes that every person faces in their life. They are numbered from 0 to 21 in Roman numerals, and each card has a unique name, such as The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, and The Fool.

The Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits, each with its unique symbolism and themes. The Cups represent emotions, love, and relationships; the Pentacles represent material wealth, career, and life path; Swords represent intellect, communication, and decision-making; Wands represent creativity, energy, and passion. Each suit has ten numbered cards and four court cards, including a King, Queen, Knight, and Page.

Differences between the Major and Minor Arcana
While both the Major and Minor Arcana are essential in understanding Tarot, there are some key differences between them. The Major Arcana cards are more significant and carry a more significant impact in the reading. They represent the main themes and challenges in a person’s life, while the Minor Arcana represents the smaller day-to-day experiences and challenges. Additionally, the Major Arcana cards are not associated with the suits, while the Minor Arcana cards are.

Understanding the Major and Minor Arcana is crucial in interpreting a Tarot reading. The Major Arcana represents significant life themes and archetypes, while the Minor Arcana represents the daily experiences and challenges. Together, they form a complete picture of a person’s life journey and help provide guidance and insight into their future.

Understanding Astrology

As we delve deeper into the world of divination, astrology presents itself as an incredibly intricate and complicated subject. Exploring the celestial bodies and their influence on our lives and personalities, astrology has been a popular study for centuries. While some may dismiss it as mere superstition, the principles of astrology have been proven to hold significant weight in understanding ourselves and the world around us. In this section, we will break down the basics of astrology and how it can be used in conjunction with tarot for a more comprehensive divination practice.

What is Astrology

Astrology is a fascinating topic that explores the relationship between celestial bodies in the universe and human behavior patterns. This metaphysical ideology dates back thousands of years and has been studied by civilizations throughout history. At its core, astrology is based on the idea that there is a connection between the position of the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies at the time of a person’s birth and their personality traits, emotions, and overall destiny.

The Basics of Astrology

Astrology involves the study of the movements and positions of celestial bodies, such as planets, stars, and the moon, and how these movements may influence human life. An astrology chart, also known as a birth chart, is created based on the exact date, time, and place of a person’s birth. This chart provides insights into the constellation and planet positions at the time of an individual’s birth.

The information derived from a birth chart is divided into twelve sections called houses, and each house represents different areas of life, such as career, relationships, and spirituality. Additionally, the position of the planets in the different houses can help to provide further insights into a person’s strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies.

The Significance of Zodiac Signs

One of the fundamental beliefs in astrology is the notion of zodiac signs. There are twelve zodiac signs in astrology, and each is associated with different personality traits, as well as ruling planets, elements, and modalities. A person’s zodiac sign is determined based on their birth date, and it is said to have a significant influence on their life.

Using Astrology for Self-Discovery

For many people, astrology is a tool for self-discovery and understanding. By examining their birth chart and zodiac sign, individuals can learn more about their unique strengths and challenges, as well as how to make decisions that align with their true selves.

Astrology is a fascinating field of study that offers insights into the connection between celestial bodies and human behavior. By exploring the basics of astrology and understanding zodiac signs, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the universe.

Key Points
Astrology is the study of how the position of celestial bodies influence human life
An astrology chart is created based on a person’s date, time, and place of birth
Zodiac signs are associated with different personality traits and have a significant influence on a person’s life
Astrology is a tool for self-discovery and understanding

How Astrology Works

Astrology is a complex system that involves the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies. This study helps astrologers interpret how these movements and positions are connected to events on Earth, particularly human affairs and personality traits.

Here are the key points to understand how astrology works:

• Celestial bodies: Astrology focuses on the movements and positions of celestial bodies, including the sun, moon, and planets.
• Zodiac: The zodiac is a belt-shaped region in the heavens where the sun, moon, and planets move. It is divided into 12 equal parts called signs, each named after a constellation. Each sign has a unique set of characteristics and is associated with certain planets and elements.
• Birth chart: A person’s birth chart, also known as a natal chart, is a map of where the celestial bodies were at the time and location of their birth. It is used to interpret their unique personality traits and life events.
• Aspects: Aspects refer to the angles formed between celestial bodies. These angles are believed to have an impact on events and personality traits.
• Transits: Transits involve the current movements and positions of the celestial bodies and how they are affecting events and personality traits.

By analyzing a person’s birth chart and the current transits, astrologers can provide insight into their life path and potential challenges and opportunities. However, it is important to note that astrology is a tool for self-discovery and guidance, but should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice or medical treatment.

Zodiac Signs and Planets

Understanding astrology involves understanding the significance of Zodiac signs and planets. As we know, Zodiac signs are determined by the position of the sun during a person’s birth, and each sign has unique characteristics and traits. The planets, on the other hand, represent different energies and influences in a person’s life.

Zodiac Signs	Planets
Aries: March 21 – April 19	Mars: energy, action, passion
Taurus: April 20 – May 20	Venus: love, beauty, pleasure
Gemini: May 21 – June 20	Mercury: communication, intelligence, logic
Cancer: June 21 – July 22	Moon: emotions, intuition, imagination
Leo: July 23 – August 22	Sun: identity, ego, purpose
Virgo: August 23 – September 22	Mercury: communication, intelligence, logic
Libra: September 23 – October 22	Venus: love, beauty, pleasure
Scorpio: October 23 – November 21	Pluto: transformation, power, regeneration
Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21	Jupiter: expansion, growth, luck
Capricorn: December 22 – January 19	Saturn: responsibility, limitations, karma
Aquarius: January 20 – February 18	Uranus: change, innovation, independence
Pisces: February 19 – March 20	Neptune: spirituality, intuition, creativity

Each planet also has its own position in the Zodiac and is associated with specific signs. For example, Mars is the ruling planet of Aries and Scorpio, while Venus is associated with Taurus and Libra. Understanding the specific correspondences between planets and signs is important when exploring the connections between astrology and Tarot.

Connecting Tarot and Astrology

As we delve deeper into the mystical worlds of tarot and astrology, we begin to uncover intriguing connections between these ancient practices. The tarot, with its intricate cards and ambiguous symbolism, has long been a powerful tool for divination and self-discovery. Astrology, on the other hand, offers a glimpse into the cosmic energies and planetary movements that shape our lives. But how exactly do these two distinct systems intertwine? Is there a relationship between the tarot cards and astrology? The answer, as we shall discover, lies in exploring the astrological correspondences in tarot, the connection between the tarot and the zodiac, and the tarot spreads designed for astrological guidance. So, let’s take a closer look at how tarot and astrology intersect and what insights they can offer us.

Astrological Correspondences in Tarot

When exploring the connections between Tarot Cards and Astrology, it’s important to understand the astrological correspondences within each Tarot card. Every Tarot card holds a specific connection with a planet, zodiac sign, or astrological house.

Table:

Tarot Card	Astrological Correspondence
The Magician	Mercury
The High Priestess	Moon
The Empress	Venus
The Emperor	Aries
The Hierophant	Taurus
The Lovers	Gemini
The Chariot	Cancer
Strength	Leo
The Hermit	Virgo
The Wheel of Fortune	Jupiter
Justice	Libra
The Hanged Man	Neptune
Death	Scorpio
Temperance	Sagittarius
The Devil	Capricorn
The Tower	Mars
The Star	Aquarius
The Moon	Pisces
The Sun	Sun
Judgment	Pluto
The World	Saturn

For example, The Magician card is often associated with Mercury due to its connection to communication, logic, and intellect. Understanding these astrological correspondences can bring additional layers of meaning to a Tarot reading and can add insight into the querent’s overall astrological profile.

The Tarot and the Zodiac

The connection between tarot cards and the zodiac is a fascinating topic to explore. Each of the 78 cards in a tarot deck has a unique symbolism that can be linked to the twelve zodiac signs and the planets associated with them. This symbolism can provide valuable insights into our lives and help us navigate the challenges we face.

The Major Arcana and the Zodiac
The Major Arcana cards are perhaps the most significant in tarot as they represent significant life events, archetypes, and spiritual lessons. Some of these cards are directly linked to the zodiac signs, such as The Empress, which is associated with Venus and the sign of Taurus, and The Chariot, which is linked to Cancer. Other Major Arcana cards may correspond to multiple zodiac signs or planetary influences.

The Minor Arcana and the Zodiac
The Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits, each corresponding to one of the four elements: fire, earth, air, and water. Each suit is associated with three zodiac signs, and each card within the suit corresponds to a specific decan, or portion of a zodiac sign.

Zodiac Sign and Planetary Associations
In astrology, each zodiac sign is associated with a ruling planet that influences the sign’s characteristics and energies. For example, Aries is ruled by Mars, which is associated with assertiveness, drive, and ambition. In tarot, the same planets can be linked to specific cards, such as the Knight of Wands, which is associated with Mars and the fire element.

Tarot and Astrology in Practice
Understanding the connections between tarot cards and astrology can provide a deeper understanding of the messages and insights revealed during a tarot reading. By incorporating astrological correspondences into a reading, a tarot reader can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the querent’s situation and provide more effective guidance.

The connections between tarot cards and the zodiac are complex and multifaceted. By exploring these connections, we can gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism and spiritual teachings within the tarot, as well as gain valuable insights into ourselves and the world around us.

Tarot Spreads for Astrological Guidance

Tarot spreads can be a valuable tool for gaining insight into various aspects of life, including those related to astrology. There are several tarot spreads that can be used specifically for astrological guidance, helping individuals understand how the celestial movements affect their daily lives. Here are some popular tarot spreads for astrological guidance:

• The Zodiac Spread: This spread involves laying out the cards in the shape of the Zodiac wheel, with each card representing a different Zodiac sign. The cards can provide insight into how each sign impacts the individual’s life and offers guidance on how to utilize the strengths and overcome the weaknesses associated with each sign.
• The Planetary Spread: This spread involves laying out the cards in a pattern that represents the movement of the planets. Each card represents a different planet and offers insight into how the individual’s life may be impacted by the energy of that planet. It can also provide guidance on how to utilize the positive aspects of each planet and navigate any challenges.
• The Horoscope Spread: This spread involves laying out the cards in a pattern that mimics the layout of a horoscope chart. Each card represents a different aspect of the individual’s life, such as career, love, and finances. This spread can help individuals understand how astrology influences the different areas of their life and offers guidance on how to best navigate each area.
• The Astrology Wheel Spread: This spread involves laying out the cards in a pattern that represents the twelve houses of the Astrology wheel. Each card represents a different house and offers insight into how the individual’s life may be impacted by the energy of that house. It can also provide guidance on how to best utilize the strengths and navigate the challenges associated with each house.

By using these tarot spreads, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of how astrology is impacting their lives and gain guidance on how to best navigate the energies at play. It is important to remember that tarot and astrology are merely tools for gaining insight and should be used in conjunction with one’s own intuition and decision-making process.

Using Tarot and Astrology for Guidance

When it comes to seeking guidance in life, people often turn to various tools and practices to gain insight and clarity. Tarot cards and astrology are two popular methods that have been used for centuries to offer guidance and understanding. By combining these two practices, you can gain a deeper level of insight into your life and the world around you. In this section, we will explore how to use tarot and astrology together for guidance and discuss the benefits that come from combining these two powerful tools. So, let’s dive into the world of tarot and astrology and discover how they can be used for guidance.

How to Conduct a Tarot Reading with Astrology

Conducting a tarot reading with astrology can provide even more insight into your situation. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare your deck: Make sure your cards are properly shuffled and ready for the reading.
2. Choose your tarot spread: There are many tarot spreads to choose from, but for an astrological reading, the Zodiac Spread or the Planetary Spread would be appropriate.
3. Choose your focus: Decide what area of your life you want to focus on and what question or concern you have.
4. Connect with the zodiac sign: Determine which zodiac sign is associated with the question or concern you have. You can consult an astrological chart or use your intuition to make this connection.
5. Lay out the cards: Place the cards in the spread and interpret each card in connection with its corresponding zodiac sign or planet. This will provide more in-depth information about the situation.
6. Consider the astrological house: Each zodiac sign is also associated with an astrological house, which represents areas of life. Consider which house the zodiac sign falls in and how that adds to the interpretation of the spread.
7. Combine interpretations: Finally, combine the interpretations from both the tarot cards and astrology to create a more complete picture of the situation and gain insight into your question or concern.

Conducting a tarot reading with astrology allows for a deeper understanding of the energies at play in a particular situation. By interpreting the cards in connection with the zodiac signs and planets, you can gain even more insight into your question or concern, and ultimately, make more informed decisions.

Interpreting the Cards Using Astrology

Once you have conducted a tarot reading using astrology, the next step is to interpret the cards based on their astrological correspondences. This can help provide deeper insight and understanding of the reading.

Major Arcana

Each of the 22 Major Arcana cards in the tarot deck is associated with a specific astrological symbol. For example, The Magician card is associated with the planet Mercury, which represents communication and intelligence. When this card appears in a reading, it may indicate that the querent needs to use their communication skills or tap into their intelligence in a particular situation.

Here is a table that shows the astrological correspondences for each of the Major Arcana cards:

Card	Astrological Symbol
The Fool	Uranus
The Magician	Mercury
The High Priestess	Moon
The Empress	Venus
The Emperor	Aries
The Hierophant	Taurus
The Lovers	Gemini
The Chariot	Cancer
Strength	Leo
The Hermit	Virgo
Wheel of Fortune	Jupiter
Justice	Libra
The Hanged Man	Neptune
Death	Scorpio
Temperance	Sagittarius
The Devil	Capricorn
The Tower	Mars
The Star	Aquarius
The Moon	Pisces
The Sun	Sun
Judgement	Pluto
The World	Saturn

Minor Arcana

The four suits of the Minor Arcana (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles) are also associated with specific astrological symbols. The chart below shows these correspondences:

Suit	Astrological Symbol
Wands	Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
Cups	Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
Swords	Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
Pentacles	Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

By interpreting the tarot cards in light of their astrological associations, you can gain new insights into the meaning of the readings. It is important to remember that the cards are not deterministic, and that free will always plays a role in shaping our destiny. However, using tarot and astrology in tandem can help guide us towards making more informed decisions and living more fulfilling lives.

Benefits of Combining Tarot and Astrology

When it comes to seeking guidance or gaining insight into a situation or decision, combining tarot cards and astrology can be highly beneficial. Here are several advantages of using these divination tools together:

• Deeper Understanding: By using both tarot and astrology, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of yourself, your surroundings, and your future. Tarot cards are highly intuitive, while astrology can provide a deeper understanding of personality traits, and tendencies based on the placement of the planets and zodiac signs.
• Confirmation: Sometimes, a tarot reading may reveal something but you may not be sure about the accuracy. In such cases, astrology can provide confirmation or clarification. For instance, if the tarot reading forecasts a difficult period ahead, you can see if such a period is supported by your astrological chart.
• Guidance for the Future: Tarot and astrology can provide guidance for the future. Tarot readings are excellent tools for assessing the present situation, while astrology can provide insight into the future based on planetary movements.
• Alternative Perspectives: Combining tarot and astrology can provide alternative perspectives to how you view your situation. Tarot cards can offer intuitive wisdom, while astrology can provide a logical and objective outlook. By combining these two tools, you can gain a more balanced perspective.
• Customized Approach: Since every individual has unique qualities and experiences, the combination of tarot and astrology can provide a customized approach for individual concerns or questions. By combining these two divination tools, you can tailor the approach to suit your specific needs.

Combining tarot and astrology can provide a more comprehensive approach towards divination and understanding of the self and the future. It is essential to use both tools in harmony to obtain the maximum benefit.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of our exploration of the connections between Tarot cards and Astrology, it is clear that the two have a complex and intertwined relationship. While many people use these divination tools separately, the potential for even greater insight and guidance can be unlocked when they are used together. Through understanding the basic principles of both Tarot and Astrology and exploring how they can be combined in practice, we can deepen our connection to ourselves, our inner wisdom and the universe around us. Let’s delve into the final thoughts on how we can harness the power of Tarot and Astrology for personal growth and transformation.

Final Thoughts

As we come to the end of this article on the connections between tarot cards and astrology, it is important to emphasize the power and complexity of both of these systems of divination. By combining the two, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our lives, and our world.

Firstly, it is important to remember that both tarot and astrology are tools that can help guide us, but ultimately it is up to us to make our own decisions and take responsibility for our lives. Tarot and astrology can provide insight and perspective, but they should never be seen as a substitute for personal agency.

Secondly, the connection between tarot and astrology can be incredibly rich and nuanced. By understanding the astrological correspondences of the tarot cards, we can gain a deeper understanding of the archetypal themes and energies at play in our lives. Similarly, by using tarot spreads that are specifically designed to tap into astrological influences, we can gain insight and guidance on specific life events and situations.

Thirdly, while tarot and astrology are often associated with divination and prediction, it is important to remember that their true power lies in their ability to help us explore and reflect on our deepest selves. By using tarot and astrology as tools for personal growth and self-awareness, we can gain a deeper understanding of our strengths, weaknesses, desires, and fears, and use this knowledge to live more authentic and fulfilling lives.

The connections between tarot cards and astrology are many and varied, and offer us a rich and rewarding system of divination, exploration, and self-discovery. Whether we are seasoned practitioners, or simply curious about these ancient arts, we can benefit from the wisdom and insight they offer, and use them as tools to help us navigate the challenges and opportunities of our lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone use Tarot cards?

Yes, anyone can use Tarot cards. It is important to have an open mind and a willingness to learn.

Do you need to have psychic abilities to use Tarot cards?

No, psychic abilities are not necessary to use Tarot cards. The cards are simply a tool for self-reflection and guidance.

What is the difference between Major Arcana and Minor Arcana cards?

Major Arcana cards represent major life events and themes, while Minor Arcana cards represent day-to-day events and smaller themes.

What do Zodiac signs represent in Astrology?

Zodiac signs represent different personality traits and characteristics based on the position of the sun at the time of birth.

What are the planets in Astrology?

The planets in Astrology are the heavenly bodies that represent different energies and influences on a person’s life.

How do Tarot cards correspond with Astrology?

Each Tarot card is associated with a specific Astrological correspondence, such as a planet or Zodiac sign.

What is a Tarot spread?

A Tarot spread is a specific arrangement of cards used in a Tarot reading to provide insight and guidance on a particular question or issue.

How do you interpret Tarot cards?

Interpreting Tarot cards involves analyzing the symbols, images, and messages depicted on the cards and applying them to the particular question or issue at hand.

Can Tarot and Astrology be used together for guidance?

Yes, Tarot and Astrology can be used together to provide deeper insight and guidance on a particular issue or question.

Is there a right or wrong way to use Tarot cards and Astrology?

There is no right or wrong way to use Tarot cards or Astrology. It is up to the individual to find the methods that work best for them.

References

• Tarotscope: How Astrology And The Tarot Are Linked
• Tarot card reading