How Many Tarot Cards are Used in a Reading?
When it comes to tarot card readings, one of the most common questions people have is how many cards are used in a reading. The answer to this question can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the specific type of reading being conducted and the preferences of the tarot card reader. In this blog post, we will explore the different card counts used in tarot readings and discuss how they can influence the depth and complexity of a reading.
The Standard Tarot Deck
The traditional tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two major categories: the major arcana and the minor arcana.
The major arcana is made up of 22 cards, each representing a different archetype or significant event. These cards include familiar names such as The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Lovers. The major arcana cards are often seen as the cornerstone of a tarot reading, offering deep insights and guidance into important aspects of life.
The minor arcana is composed of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Cups, Swords, Wands, and Pentacles. Each suit contains ten numbered cards (Ace to Ten) and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). These cards represent the everyday aspects of life, including emotions, thoughts, actions, and material possessions.
In a standard tarot reading, the reader may use all 78 cards to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation at hand. However, depending on the particular spread or the reader’s preference, not all cards may be utilized.
Three Card Spreads
Three card spreads are one of the simplest and most commonly used methods in tarot card readings. As the name suggests, this type of reading involves pulling three cards from the deck and interpreting their meanings in relation to the querent’s query.
In a three card spread, the first card represents the past, the second represents the present, and the third represents the future. This concise reading provides a snapshot of the querent’s circumstances and offers guidance for moving forward.
While a three card spread is relatively brief, it still draws upon the rich symbolism and archetypal energies of the cards involved.
Celtic Cross Spread
For those seeking a more in-depth tarot reading, the Celtic Cross spread is a popular choice. This spread uses ten cards in total, each playing a specific role in the overall interpretation.
Here is a breakdown of the positions and their meanings in the Celtic Cross spread:
| Position | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | The present situation or the central issue |
| 2 | The immediate challenge or opposing factor |
| 3 | The basis of the situation or the root cause |
| 4 | The recent past or the events that led to the current situation |
| 5 | The best possible outcome or the goal to strive for |
| 6 | The near future or the approaching influences |
| 7 | The querent’s attitude or their self-perception |
| 8 | The external influences or how others may be impacting the situation |
| 9 | The inner hopes, fears, or expectations of the querent |
| 10 | The ultimate outcome or the final result |
As you can see, the Celtic Cross spread provides a comprehensive analysis of the querent’s circumstances, drawing upon past events, present challenges, future potentials, and internal and external influences. The ten cards used in this spread offer a detailed and nuanced perspective on the situation at hand.
Large Spreads and Customized Readings
While three card spreads and the Celtic Cross are popular options, there are also larger spreads available that can incorporate more cards. These spreads can range from five cards to even twenty-one cards or more.
Some tarot readers adhere to traditional spreads, such as the Tree of Life spread or the Astrological spread, while others prefer to create customized spreads based on the querent’s specific questions or concerns.
With larger spreads, more cards are selected and arranged in a specific pattern, each card building upon the previous one to reveal a comprehensive narrative. These readings can explore complex dynamics, relationships, and future possibilities in great detail.
The Reader’s Intuition
While the number of cards used in a tarot reading depends on the chosen spread, it is also essential to consider the reader’s intuition and personal style. Some tarot readers may feel drawn to pulling additional clarifying cards during a reading or incorporating extra cards to gain further insights. This intuitive approach allows the reader to fine-tune the interpretation and provide a more nuanced and personalized analysis for the querent.
In conclusion, the number of tarot cards used in a reading can vary depending on the chosen spread, ranging from three cards to a larger number, such as ten or more. Each card contributes to the overall interpretation and provides valuable guidance and insights. Whether you opt for a concise three card spread or a detailed Celtic Cross, the beauty of tarot lies in its ability to offer wisdom, perspective, and guidance for those who seek it.
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