How to Do Tarot with Playing Cards: A Comprehensive Guide
The practice of tarot reading has been used for centuries as a means of gaining insight and guidance. Traditionally, tarot cards are used for this purpose, with each card holding its own symbolic meaning. However, it is possible to use a standard deck of playing cards in place of tarot cards. In this detailed guide, we will explore how to do tarot readings with playing cards, including their meanings, spreads, and interpretations.
The Meaning of Playing Cards in Tarot
Before delving into the specific spreads and interpretations, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the meanings associated with each playing card. While there are variations in interpretations, the following are widely accepted associations:
| Playing Card | Meaning in Tarot |
|---|---|
| Hearts | Cups (emotions, relationships, intuition) |
| Spades | Swords (intellect, challenges, conflicts) |
| Diamonds | Pentacles (material wealth, practical matters, physical well-being) |
| Clubs | Wands (creativity, energy, inspiration) |
Choosing a Significator Card
Just like a tarot deck has a significator card representing the querent, a playing card deck can also be used to determine a significator. To choose a significator card from a regular deck of playing cards, follow this method:
- Separate the four suits into four separate piles: Hearts, Spades, Diamonds, and Clubs.
- Ask the querent to select the pile that resonates with them the most.
- Once the pile is chosen, ask the querent to select a card from that pile. This card represents their significator.
Playing Card Tarot Spreads
There are numerous tarot spreads that can be modified for use with playing cards. Below, we will outline two popular spreads:
The Three-Card Spread
As the name suggests, this spread utilizes three cards to provide insight into a particular situation or question. The positions of the cards carry the following meanings:
- Card 1: Past
- Card 2: Present
- Card 3: Future
To perform the Three-Card Spread with playing cards, shuffle the deck thoroughly while concentrating on the question at hand. Then, deal three cards face down and flip them over one by one, placing them in the designated positions. Interpret each card in relation to the corresponding position and its associated tarot meanings.
The Celtic Cross Spread
The Celtic Cross Spread is a more complex spread that provides a more in-depth analysis of a situation. It consists of ten cards placed in specific positions, each representing different aspects of the querent’s life. Here’s a breakdown of the Celtic Cross Spread with playing cards:
- Card 1: The Present
- Card 2: Immediate Challenge
- Card 3: Distant Past
- Card 4: Recent Past
- Card 5: Possible Future
- Card 6: Near Future
- Card 7: The Querent’s Attitude and Feelings
- Card 8: External Influences
- Card 9: Hopes and Fears
- Card 10: Outcome
To perform the Celtic Cross Spread with playing cards, shuffle the deck while focusing on the question or situation. Deal the ten cards face down and flip them over one by one, placing them in the corresponding positions. Analyze each card and its position to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Interpreting Playing Card Tarot Readings
Interpreting playing card tarot readings is similar to interpreting traditional tarot readings. However, it’s important to remember the associations between playing cards and tarot cards to ensure accurate interpretations. Consider the following aspects when interpreting a playing card tarot reading:
- The suit of the card determines the general theme of the reading.
- The number on the card provides additional insights into the situation.
- Combine the meanings of the playing cards with the corresponding tarot card associations for a nuanced interpretation.
- Consider the position of each card within the chosen spread to understand its significance in relation to the question or situation.
Conclusion
Using playing cards for tarot readings can be a practical and accessible alternative to traditional tarot decks. By understanding the meanings associated with each playing card, selecting a significator, and utilizing popular tarot spreads, you can conduct meaningful and insightful readings. Remember to adapt your interpretations by combining the associated tarot card meanings when interpreting playing card tarot readings. With practice and intuition, you can develop your skills as a playing card tarot reader and offer guidance and clarity to those seeking answers.
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