How Many Cards in a Tarot Pack? Exploring the Mystical World of Tarot
Curious about tarot cards? You may have heard about them being used for fortune-telling or divination, but did you know that they also serve as powerful tools for self-reflection and personal growth? Whether you’re a seasoned tarot reader or just starting your journey into the world of tarot, understanding the composition of a tarot pack is essential. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of tarot decks and answer the question, “How many cards are in a tarot pack?”
The Origins of Tarot
Historical evidence suggests that tarot cards originated in the mid-15th century in various parts of Europe, primarily in Italy, France, and Germany. The exact purpose and symbolism of these cards during their early days remain somewhat unclear.
Originally, the tarot pack was said to comprise a standard playing card deck with an additional set of picture cards. However, over time, the tarot began to evolve into a separate entity, gaining prominence as a tool for spiritual and psychological exploration.
The Two Main Types of Tarot Decks
Today, there are two main types of tarot decks: the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck and the Tarot de Marseille (TdM) deck. These two decks serve as the foundation for most contemporary tarot decks, with slight variations in symbolism and imagery.
Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) Deck
The RWS deck, created by Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of A.E. Waite, is one of the most influential tarot decks in modern times. It consists of 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana comprises 22 cards, each representing a significant event or archetype in a person’s life. These cards, such as The Fool, The Magician, or The Tower, often depict powerful symbols and archetypal figures that carry deep meanings and can offer profound insights.
| Major Arcana Cards | Card Number |
|---|---|
| The Fool | 0 |
| The Magician | I |
| The High Priestess | II |
The Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards and is further divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit represents a specific element or aspect of human experience, offering insights into various areas of life.
Each suit contains ten numbered cards (Ace to 10) and four Court Cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. The Court Cards often represent specific personality traits or people in a querent’s life.
| Suit | Number of Cards |
|---|---|
| Wands | 14 |
| Cups | 14 |
| Swords | 14 |
| Pentacles | 14 |
Tarot de Marseille (TdM) Deck
The Tarot de Marseille deck is considered one of the oldest and most traditional tarot decks. It originated in the 16th century and consists of the same 78 cards as the RWS deck.
However, unlike the RWS deck, the TdM deck has a distinctive art style and symbolism, often featuring simpler illustrations and geometric patterns.
Additional Tarot Cards
While the RWS and TdM decks form the foundation for most tarot decks, some decks may include additional cards that offer unique perspectives or incorporate different cultural or spiritual influences.
For instance, some decks include extra Major Arcana cards, creating a deck with more than the traditional 22 cards. These additional cards may be influenced by specific spiritual practices, mythologies, or even personal interpretations by deck creators.
Conclusion
So, how many cards are in a tarot pack? In most traditional tarot decks, whether based on the RWS or TdM system, you will find a total of 78 cards. These cards range from the mystical Major Arcana to the detailed Minor Arcana, representing various aspects of human experience.
Remember, tarot is a deeply personal and subjective journey. While understanding the structure and composition of a tarot deck is important, the true power of tarot lies in the personal connections and interpretations you form with the cards. So, dive in, explore, and let the tarot guide you on an incredible journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
