What Tarot Cards Should I Start With?
So you’ve decided to dive into the world of tarot readings, but where do you start? With so many beautiful and intricate tarot decks out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for beginners. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best tarot decks for beginners and provide guidance on how to select the perfect deck for your tarot journey.
Understanding Tarot Decks
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s take a moment to understand the structure of a tarot deck. A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
The Major Arcana
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing a powerful archetype or significant life event. These cards often depict highly symbolic imagery, making them an essential part of any tarot reading. The Major Arcana cards serve as the backbone of a tarot deck and offer deep insights into life’s major themes and challenges.
The Minor Arcana
Complementing the Major Arcana, the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Swords, Cups, Wands, and Pentacles. These suits represent various aspects of daily life and reflect common human experiences, emotions, and situations. Each suit contains ten numbered cards (Ace through Ten) and four Court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King).
Choosing Your First Tarot Deck
When selecting your first tarot deck, it’s crucial to choose one that resonates with you visually and emotionally. Since tarot readings involve connecting with your intuition, a deck that speaks to you will enhance your experience and make it easier to understand the cards’ meanings.
Here are some popular tarot decks recommended for beginners:
| Deck Name | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rider-Waite Tarot | The Rider-Waite Tarot deck is one of the most popular and widely recognized tarot decks. Created in 1909, it serves as the foundation for many other decks. |
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| Universal Waite Tarot | The Universal Waite Tarot deck is a variation of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck. It retains the iconic symbolism while featuring softer colors and more refined artwork. |
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| Wild Unknown Tarot | The Wild Unknown Tarot deck offers a more modern and unconventional approach to tarot. Created by Kim Krans, it features beautiful yet minimalist artwork that encourages intuitive interpretation. |
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Note that these are just a few examples, and there are countless tarot decks available, each with its own unique style and energy. Take the time to explore different decks, both online and in person, to find one that resonates with you.
Additional Resources and Tips
In addition to selecting a tarot deck, it’s helpful to have some resources to guide you through the learning process. Many tarot decks come with comprehensive guidebooks that provide detailed explanations of each card’s meaning and interpretation.
You may also find it beneficial to seek out online tutorials, courses, or books about tarot reading techniques. Learning from experienced tarot readers can help you grasp the foundational principles of tarot and develop your own unique style.
Remember, tarot is a deeply personal practice, and there is no right or wrong way to interpret the cards. Trust your intuition and allow yourself to develop your own relationship with the symbols and archetypes within the deck.
Conclusion
Choosing your first tarot deck is an exciting step in your journey of self-discovery and divination. It’s important to select a deck that resonates with you visually and emotionally, as this connection will enhance your tarot readings. Consider exploring popular decks like the Rider-Waite Tarot, Universal Waite Tarot, and Wild Unknown Tarot. Remember to take your time, trust your intuition, and enjoy the process of discovering the magical world of tarot.
