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A brief introduction to the Tarot for those who are not familiar with it.
The Tarot - a system of Prediction and Divination
Origins:
The origins of the Tarot are not totally clear. They draw on wisdom that can be found, or expressed, in many civilisations. The Tarot, as we would recognise it today, probably comes from the Medieval period, and very likely from Italy. There are many stories about the origin of playing cards before this period - probably as many stories as there are now Tarot decks to choose from.
The Deck:
The Tarot deck comprises 78 cards.
These can be divided into the Major Arcana of 22 cards and the Minor Arcana of 56 cards (It is the Minor Arcana that present day playing cards are based on). The imagery and symbolism are important and is carried through the many different decks now available.
Many of the decks will have accompanying instructions. Some of the more popular decks will have a specific book associated with them. There is also a range of books covering Tarot in general through to specific Tarot spreads or layouts. Although these books will give suggested meanings; as you get accustomed and in tune with your deck, you should let your own conscious and sub-conscious mind alter, expand or present you with new meanings. We will gradually learn to trust our natural intuitive ability.
Choosing your Tarot Deck:
This is a very personal and the style and look of the deck needs to be right for you. If you look through our Tarot Page you will see just some of the varying styles of deck.
Major Arcana:
The Major Arcana take us through life with the many spiritual and physical forces that affect us. They are symbols of human experience. Each card has a number - usually shown in Roman Numerals, from 0 (the Fool) to XX1 (21 - the World).
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0
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The Fool
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0
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1
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The Magician
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I
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2
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The High Priestess
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II
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3
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The Empress
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III
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4
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The Emperor
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IV
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5
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Hierophant
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V
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6
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The Lovers
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VI
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7
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The Chariot
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VII
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8
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Justice
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VIII
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9
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The Hermit
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VIIII
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10
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Wheel of Fortune
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X
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11
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Strength
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XI
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12
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Hanged Man
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XII
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13
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Death
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XIII
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14
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Temperance
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XIIII
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15
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The Devil
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XV
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16
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The Tower
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XVI
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17
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The Star
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XVII
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18
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The Moon
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XVIII
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19
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The Sun
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XVIIII
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20
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Judgement
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XX
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21
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The World
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XXI
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The names of some of the Major Arcana change slightly from deck to deck.
The appearance of cards titled Hanged Man, Death and The Devil sometimes concern people - or put them off having anything to do with Tarot at all.
Minor Arcana:
The 56 cards of the Minor Arcana are divide into four suits.
Swords - represents the element of Air.
Wands or Batons - represents the element of Fire.
Cups represent the element of Water.
Coins or Pentacles represent the element of Earth.
It is a good start to learn the meanings associated with the four elements when interpreting the Minor Arcana. The Court Cards within each of the four suits, represent the total potential of that element. The interpretation of each of the Minor Arcana card takes into account the associated element and it's number.
If you would like to know more about the Tarot, there are many excellent books on the market such as 'Complete Book of Tarot' by Cassandra Eason.
Most important of all do not be afraid of the Tarot. Use it and enjoy it.
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