How to Read Tarot Cards: A Beginner’s Guide

Entering the world of tarot reading can be intimidating for beginners. With a deck of 78 mystical cards that each hold deep symbols and meanings, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, learning to read tarot cards can be a rewarding and enlightening experience, providing insight and guidance for both the reader and the receiver. In this beginner’s guide, we will explore the origins and significance of tarot cards, how to choose and prepare your own deck, and the best practices for reading and interpreting the cards. Whether you’re curious about the mystical world of tarot or seeking to deepen your existing knowledge, this guide will help you take the first steps on your tarot journey.

What is Tarot Reading?

For individuals who are new to the world of divination, tarot reading can seem mysterious and perplexing. However, it is a powerful tool that has been used for centuries to gain insight into life’s most pressing questions. Tarot cards act as a gateway to a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe. In this section, we will explore the origins of tarot cards and the meanings behind them. By the end of this section, you will have a better understanding of what tarot reading is all about and the significance behind the cards. Check out MAJOR ARCANA MEANINGS or MINOR ARCANA INTERPRETATIONS to get more insight into the meanings of the cards.

History of Tarot Cards

The origins of tarot cards are somewhat mysterious and debated among historians. Some sources claim that the cards were first used in the 14th or 15th century in Italy and were initially played as a card game. Others assert that they have their roots in ancient Egypt or China. Nevertheless, tarot cards began to be used for divination purposes in the 18th century.

According to Dev Intuition Tarot, tarot cards were initially used as the supplementary cards for the game of triumphs, which is similar to the game of bridge. The game had 78 cards, which later became the standard number of tarot cards used in divination. Over time, tarot readers began to notice that the cards had deeper symbolic meanings and could be used to gain insight into a person’s life.

During the 20th century, tarot reading gained popularity among spiritual and esoteric communities, and many new tarot decks were created with unique themes and symbolism. Some of the most popular decks are the Rider-Waite-Smith, Thoth, and Marseille. Today, tarot reading continues to be a popular form of divination and is often used for self-reflection, decision-making, and gaining insight into the future.

It is worth noting that tarot reading is not associated with any specific religion or belief system. The cards are simply a tool that can be used by anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. However, it is important to approach tarot reading with an open and respectful attitude, and to follow ethical guidelines to ensure that readings are conducted in a responsible and compassionate manner. (source: Tarot Reading Ethics for Beginners)

Understanding the Meanings of Tarot Cards

Tarot cards are a set of 78 cards, each with its own unique meaning and symbolism. Understanding the meanings of tarot cards is an important part of tarot reading. Each card has different interpretations depending on the position of the card within the spread, the question being asked, and the intuition of the reader.

Major Arcana cards represent significant life events, while Minor Arcana cards deal with more everyday matters.

The table below shows some of the Major and Minor Arcana cards and their meanings.

Minor Arcana cards are further divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit represents different aspects of life, such as creativity, emotions, intellect, and materialism. Each suit has 14 cards, with numbered cards ranging from Ace to ten, and four face cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.

Understanding the meanings of tarot cards is an ongoing process that requires both knowledge and intuition. As you continue to practice tarot reading, you will develop a deeper understanding of the cards and their meanings.

Getting Started with Tarot Reading

When venturing into the world of tarot reading, getting started can seem daunting. However, with the right guidance and tools, anyone can learn to read tarot cards. Choosing the right tarot deck is a crucial first step. Each deck has its unique symbology and artwork, making it important to find one that resonates with you. Once you have your deck, it’s important to cleanse and charge it to ensure you have clear and accurate readings. So, let’s dive into the steps needed to get started with tarot reading.

Choosing Your Tarot Deck

Choosing Your Tarot Deck:

Choosing the perfect tarot deck is an important step for beginners to ensure a good understanding and connection with the cards. Here are some factors to consider:

Keep in mind that there are many tarot decks available in the market, so don’t be afraid to take your time and choose a deck that feels right for you. You can also consider borrowing or purchasing a few decks to compare and see which one resonates with you the most.

Once you have selected a tarot deck, it’s important to cleanse and charge the cards to establish a connection with them and remove any negative energy that may be attached to them.

Cleansing and Charging Your Cards

Cleansing and Charging Your Cards

Before you start reading your Tarot cards, it’s important to cleanse and charge them to remove any negative energy and to fill them with your own positive energy. Here’s how to cleanse and charge your cards:

1. Cleansing: There are several ways to cleanse your Tarot cards, but one of the easiest and most effective methods is to simply shuffle them while focusing on the intention of removing any negative energy. You can also pass them through incense smoke or place them in a bag with cleansing crystals such as clear quartz or selenite.
2. Charging: Once your cards are cleansed, it’s time to charge them with your own energy. Hold the deck in your hands and focus on your intention of infusing the cards with positive energy. You can also leave them in moonlight overnight or store them with a charged crystal such as amethyst or citrine.

It’s important to remember to cleanse and charge your cards regularly, especially after working with clients or after a particularly heavy or emotional reading. By taking care of your cards, you can ensure that they will continue to provide accurate and helpful insights.

For more information on Tarot spreads and accurate readings, check out our article on common Tarot spreads for beginners or read our guide on how to develop your intuition with Tarot.

How to Read Tarot Cards

Tarot reading has been practiced for centuries, and it involves interpreting the symbolic meanings of tarot cards to gain insight into a situation. While there is no one definitive way to read tarot cards, there are some general guidelines and techniques that can be helpful for beginners. In this section, we will delve into various aspects of how to read tarot cards, including card spreads and interpreting the cards. Additionally, we will explore some of the common tarot spreads for beginners that you can use to get started with your readings, as well as some advice for improving the accuracy of your readings. Before we dive into the practicalities of reading tarot cards, however, there are a few things you need to know about choosing and preparing your deck. Let’s take a closer look at these first.

Card Spreads

One of the most important aspects of tarot reading is understanding how to properly utilize card spreads. A card spread is a specific layout of tarot cards that is used to answer different types of questions or provide insight into different areas of a person’s life.

Three-Card Spread: This is a simple and versatile spread that can be used for a variety of questions or situations. The first card represents the past, the second card represents the present, and the third card represents the future. This spread can be used for yes or no questions, as well as questions about love, career, and personal growth.

Celtic Cross Spread: This is a classic and popular spread that provides more in-depth insight into a person’s life. It consists of ten cards laid out in a specific pattern. The first six cards represent the present situation, different aspects of the issue at hand, and potential obstacles or challenges. The seventh card represents the person’s attitude towards the situation, the eighth card represents external influences, and the ninth card represents hopes and fears. The final card represents the ultimate outcome.

One-Card Spread: This is the simplest and most straightforward spread, consisting of just one card. It’s often used for daily guidance or quick answers to specific questions. The card pulled is thought to represent the energy or lesson needed for that particular day or situation.

It’s important to note that there are many other types of card spreads in addition to these three. Each spread has its own unique purpose and can be used to answer different types of questions or provide insight into different areas of life.

To choose the most appropriate spread for a situation, it’s important to think about the question being asked and what kind of information is desired. It’s also important to keep in mind that the layout of the cards is not the only factor in a reading – the interpretation of the cards themselves is also crucial in providing an accurate reading.

For more information on choosing your first tarot deck, check out our article on first tarot deck choices.

Interpreting the Cards

When it comes to interpreting the cards in tarot reading, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that you are accurately interpreting the message that the cards are trying to convey. Here are some tips to help you in interpreting the cards:

Pay attention to the imagery: The imagery on the tarot cards is symbolic and can convey a deeper meaning than what is immediately apparent. Take time to examine each card carefully and consider what the imagery might represent. A good way to enhance your understanding of the symbols is to keep a notebook where you can jot down your observations and impressions of each card.

Consider the position of the card: The position of the card in the spread can also influence its meaning. For instance, a card in the “past” position might represent something that has already happened, while a card in the “future” position might represent something that is yet to come.

Use your intuition: Tarot readings rely heavily on intuition and your personal interpretation of the cards. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to tap into your own inner wisdom to interpret the reading.

Avoid jumping to conclusions: Be cautious not to jump to conclusions or make assumptions based on the cards alone. Take time to reflect on the cards and consider how they fit in with the overall reading.

Consider the spread as a whole: Remember that each individual card is part of a larger overall spread. Look at the bigger picture and consider how the cards relate to one another to gain a deeper understanding of the reading.

By following these tips, you can develop your skills in interpreting the cards and gain greater insight into yourself and the world around you.

Common Tarot Mistakes to Avoid

When starting out with tarot reading, it’s important to be aware of some common mistakes that beginners often make. Avoiding these mistakes can save you time and frustration, and help you get the most out of your tarot readings.

One mistake that is easy to make when first starting out with tarot reading is to rely too heavily on memorized meanings. While it can be helpful to have a basic understanding of the meanings of each card, it’s important to remember that tarot is a tool for intuition and self-discovery. Try to approach each reading with an open mind, allowing the cards to speak to you in the moment. Don’t be afraid to deviate from traditional interpretations if you feel that the cards are conveying a different message to you.

Another common mistake is to ask questions that are too vague or open-ended. While it can be tempting to ask broad questions like “What does my future hold?” or “What should I do with my life?” these types of questions can be difficult for the tarot to answer in a specific and meaningful way. Instead, try to focus on more specific questions that you can realistically address in a single reading.

It’s also important to avoid asking the same question repeatedly in hopes of getting a different answer. Tarot readings are meant to be a snapshot of the present moment, and asking the same question multiple times can lead to confusion and contradicting answers. Instead, try to focus on one question at a time and trust the guidance that the cards provide.

One final mistake to avoid is focusing too much on the “negative” cards, such as the Tower, Death, or the Devil. While these cards may seem intimidating, they can also offer valuable insights into areas where growth and change are needed. Rather than viewing these cards as inherently “bad,” try to approach them with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

By being aware of these common tarot reading mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can ensure that your readings are as accurate and helpful as possible. Remember, tarot is a tool for self-discovery and personal growth, and approaching it with an open mind and a willingness to learn can lead to transformative insights and experiences.

Tarot Reading Tips for Beginners

For beginners, starting with tarot reading can be quite intimidating. However, following some basic tips can help ease the process and make it more enjoyable.

Tip 1: Trust your intuition. Tarot cards are meant to be a tool for your intuition to guide you. Listen to your gut feelings when interpreting the cards and don’t doubt your instincts.

Tip 2: Don’t fear the negative cards. Not all cards in tarot have a positive meaning. Some can be difficult to interpret and convey negative messages. But remember, these cards are only meant to provide guidance and understanding to help navigate through tough situations.

Tip 3: Practice, practice, practice. Tarot reading is a skill that can be improved and honed with regular practice. Pull a card every day and try to interpret its meaning. With time and experience, you’ll become more comfortable and confident in your abilities.

Tip 4: Keep a tarot journal. Write down your interpretations of each card and reflect on your readings. This will help you track your progress and improve your understanding of tarot.

Tip 5: Don’t rely solely on tarot readings. While it’s helpful to consult tarot cards for guidance, it’s important to remember that you have agency and control over your own life. Don’t let the cards dictate your decisions entirely.

Tip 6: Be open-minded. Tarot can offer insights and perspectives that may be different from your own. Stay open to diverse interpretations and don’t dismiss the messages conveyed by the cards.

Remember, tarot reading is a personal journey unique to each individual. Take your time, trust yourself, and enjoy the experience.

Conclusion

After going through this beginner’s guide to Tarot reading, you might feel overwhelmed or unsure about where to start. However, it’s important to remember that Tarot reading is a personal journey and there is no right or wrong way to do it.

It’s okay to take your time. Don’t feel pressured to become an expert overnight. Remember, Tarot reading is about intuition, so listen to your inner voice and trust your instincts.

Practice is key. The more you practice, the more familiar you will become with your cards and the meanings behind them. Make sure to regularly cleanse and charge your deck to keep them energetically aligned.

Keep an open mind. Tarot cards can reveal insights that you may not expect, so approach each reading with a sense of openness and curiosity. Additionally, don’t let preconceived notions or bias cloud your interpretation of the cards.

Avoid common mistakes. As a beginner, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes such as overly relying on guidebooks or not trusting your intuition.

Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the process. Tarot reading can be a fun and insightful practice that can provide guidance and clarity in your life. Trust yourself and your journey, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient Tarot reader.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tarot reading and fortune-telling?

Tarot reading is a process of exploring and analyzing a person’s current life situation, providing insights and guidance. Fortune-telling usually involves predicting a person’s future without necessarily providing an explanation of how that future may unfold.

Do I need to have psychic abilities to read Tarot cards?

No, psychic abilities are not necessary to read tarot cards. Anyone can learn how to read tarot cards through study and practice.

Can Tarot readings be done online or over the phone?

Yes, tarot readings can be done remotely through online or phone sessions. The same principles and techniques apply regardless of the location of the client and reader.

What kind of questions can be asked during a Tarot reading?

Questions asked during a tarot reading are usually open-ended, and focused on the client’s current life situation, concerns, and goals. Examples of questions include “What is currently influencing my work life?” or “How can I improve my relationship with my partner?”

Can Tarot cards predict death or health issues?

No, tarot cards cannot predict death or health issues with certainty. Instead, tarot readings focus on providing guidance and insight into the client’s current life situation and any challenges they may be facing.

What is the best way to store Tarot cards?

Tarot cards should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture and humidity. Many people use protective cases or pouches to store their tarot decks.

Can I use different tarot decks for different types of readings?

Yes, tarot readers often use different decks or spreads depending on the type of reading they are performing. Choosing a deck that is highly symbolic or one that is focused on a specific theme can help to enhance the reading experience.

Is it possible to become too dependent on tarot readings?

It is possible to become overly dependent on tarot readings, especially if a person uses them as a sole source of guidance or decision-making. It is important to balance tarot readings with personal reflection and decision-making.

Can Tarot cards be used for meditation and mindfulness?

Yes, tarot cards can be used as a tool for meditation and mindfulness. Focusing on a single card or a particular spread can help to center the mind and promote relaxation and focus.

How can I find a reputable Tarot reader?

One way to find a reputable tarot reader is to ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had positive experiences with tarot readings. It is also important to research a reader’s experience and training, and to review testimonials and reviews from past clients.

References

• Lesson 1 – Introduction to the Tarot
• Tarot card reading