The Order of Tarot Card Reading: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to a tarot card reading, many people wonder about the order in which the cards should be laid out and interpreted. The sequence in which tarot cards are drawn can significantly impact the reading’s accuracy and the insights gained. In this blog post, we will delve into the different approaches to tarot card reading order and explore their significance.

1. The Traditional Method

The traditional method of tarot card reading follows a specific sequence that has been practiced for centuries. It involves shuffling the card deck thoroughly and then laying out the cards in a predetermined pattern. The most common pattern used is the Celtic Cross spread, which consists of ten cards placed in positions that represent different aspects of the querent’s life.

The sequence in this method is as follows:

1. The Significator Card: This card represents the querent or the person seeking the reading. It sets the tone for the entire reading.
2. The Crossing Card: Positioned over the significator card, this card represents the immediate challenge or obstacle the querent is facing.
3. The Foundation Card: Placed beneath the significator card, this card represents the underlying influences and subconscious factors affecting the querent.
4. The Recent Past Card: This card sheds light on the recent events or experiences that have brought the querent to their current situation.
5. The Crowning Card: This card represents the goal or the ideal outcome that the querent desires.
6. The Near Future Card: Positioned after the significator card, this card offers insights into what the future holds if the current path is followed.
7. The Subconscious Card: This card uncovers the querent’s hidden desires, fears, or motivations that are affecting their present situation.
8. The External Influences Card: Positioned above the significator card, this card represents the external forces or people that are impacting the querent.
9. The Hopes and Fears Card: This card reveals the querent’s expectations, apprehensions, and aspirations related to the outcome.
10. The Final Outcome Card: Placed at the end of the reading, this card offers insights into the ultimate result or resolution of the situation.

This traditional method provides a structured framework to interpret the cards, allowing the reader to explore various aspects of the querent’s life in a systematic manner.

2. Intuitive Card Reading

While the traditional method provides a solid structure for tarot card readings, some readers prefer a more intuitive approach. In intuitive card reading, the order in which the cards are laid out may vary depending on the reader’s intuition and connection with the cards.

This method emphasizes the reader’s innate psychic abilities and relies on their interpretation of the energies and messages conveyed by the cards. Intuitive readers may choose to draw cards one at a time, interpreting each card before moving on to the next. Alternatively, they might lay out cards in patterns that intuitively feel right to them.

Intuitive card reading offers a more fluid and adaptable approach to the tarot, allowing the reader to tailor the reading to the specific needs of the querent and delve deeper into specific areas of concern.

3. Customized Spreads

Another approach to tarot card reading order involves using customized spreads. Custom spreads are designed by the tarot reader to fit the querent’s specific question or situation. Instead of following a set sequence of cards, the reader determines the order and placement of the cards based on the question or theme.

For example, a custom spread for a relationship reading may include cards representing the past, present, and future of the relationship, as well as cards for communication, challenges, and potential outcomes. The specific structure of the spread is tailored to address the querent’s concerns and provide detailed insights into their situation.

Custom spreads can be a powerful tool for tarot readers as they allow for a highly personalized and focused reading experience. The order in which the cards are laid out depends on the specific spread chosen.

4. Reverse Card Order

Traditionally, tarot cards are drawn and interpreted in an upright position. However, some readers choose to intentionally reverse the cards before drawing them. Reversed cards introduce a new layer of meaning and can offer insights into hidden or blocked energies within the querent’s life.

When using reversed cards, the order of the reading remains the same as in the traditional method or any other chosen spread. However, the reversed position adds depth to the interpretation, revealing the querent’s internal conflicts, unresolved issues, or areas needing attention.

Choosing the Right Tarot Card Reading Order

Ultimately, the choice of tarot card reading order depends on the reader’s personal style, the querent’s needs, and the question or situation at hand. Traditional methods offer structure and a systematic approach, while intuitive methods allow for flexibility and personalized readings. Custom spreads and reverse card order both provide unique perspectives and insights into specific topics or concerns.

As a tarot reader, it is essential to develop a deep understanding of each method and practice with different approaches to find what resonates most with you and your clients. There is no one-size-fits-all order for tarot card readings, but by honing your skills and intuition, you can provide meaningful and insightful readings to those seeking guidance.

Remember, the order of the cards is just one aspect of the reading process. The true value lies in the reader’s spiritual connection, intuition, and ability to interpret the cards’ messages accurately and compassionately.

Whether you follow the traditional method, embrace intuition, create custom spreads, or include reverse card order, each approach offers its unique benefits. Experiment, explore, and find the order that empowers you to unlock the profound wisdom of the tarot cards.