What Tarot Cards to Buy for Beginners

When starting out on your tarot journey, choosing the right tarot deck can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to find a deck that resonates with you and suits your learning style. In this guide, we will explore some top recommendations for tarot decks that are perfect for beginners. Whether you are drawn to vibrant imagery, traditional symbolism, or modern interpretations, there is a deck out there that will inspire and guide you on your tarot adventure.

Rider-Waite Tarot Deck

The Rider-Waite Tarot deck is one of the most popular choices for beginners, and for good reason. Created by A.E. Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, this deck was first published in 1910 and has since become a classic in the tarot world.

The Rider-Waite deck features 78 cards divided into the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana represents significant life events and spiritual lessons, while the Minor Arcana dives into more specific situations and day-to-day experiences. The deck’s imagery is rich in symbolism, making it easy for beginners to connect with and interpret the cards.

With countless books and resources available, learning tarot with the Rider-Waite deck is a breeze. The clear and concise meanings of the cards can be easily memorized and built upon as you deepen your understanding of the tarot.

Thoth Tarot Deck

If you are looking for a deck that explores the deeper esoteric aspects of tarot, the Thoth Tarot deck, created by Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris, may be just what you need. Published in 1969, this deck is heavily influenced by Crowley’s Thelema philosophy and features intricate and thought-provoking artwork.

The Thoth Tarot deck follows the structure of the Rider-Waite deck but incorporates additional astrological and qabalistic symbolism. This deck encourages self-reflection and offers a deeper connection to the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of tarot.

Although the Thoth Tarot deck can be a bit overwhelming for absolute beginners, it is an excellent choice for those who are drawn to mysticism, astrology, and a more intricate interpretation of the cards.

Modern Tarot Decks

For beginners who prefer a more contemporary take on tarot, there are several modern decks available that offer a fresh perspective while still honoring the traditional meanings of the cards.

The Wild Unknown Tarot deck, created by Kim Krans, is a beloved choice among modern tarot enthusiasts. With its minimalistic and highly intuitive imagery, this deck encourages a deep connection with one’s intuition and inner wisdom. The simplicity of the artwork allows beginners to freely explore the meanings of the cards without feeling overwhelmed.

The Everyday Tarot deck, created by Brigit Esselmont, founder of BiddyTarot.com, is another modern option perfect for beginners. This deck features contemporary imagery that is easy to connect with and provides practical guidance for everyday situations. The accompanying guidebook offers clear interpretations and helpful spreads to get you started on your tarot journey.

Choosing the Right Tarot Deck

When choosing a tarot deck as a beginner, it’s essential to follow your intuition. Allow yourself to be drawn to a deck that resonates with you visually and emotionally. Look through different decks online or visit a local metaphysical shop to get a feel for the cards.

Consider the style of the artwork, the symbolism used, and how it speaks to you personally. Some beginners find that certain decks simply “speak” to them, making it easier to connect with and interpret the cards.

It’s also worth considering the size of the cards. Some decks are larger and may be more challenging to handle, especially for those with smaller hands. Conversely, smaller decks may have more intricate details that can be harder to interpret for beginners.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment and explore different tarot decks. As you progress on your tarot journey, you may find that your preferences evolve, and you resonate with different decks at different times.

Conclusion

Choosing your first tarot deck is an exciting and personal experience. The Rider-Waite Tarot deck is an excellent choice for beginners due to its rich symbolism and abundance of learning resources. If you’re drawn to a deeper esoteric interpretation of the cards, the Thoth Tarot deck may be perfect for you. Modern tarot decks such as The Wild Unknown Tarot and Everyday Tarot offer a contemporary twist while still providing solid foundations for beginners.

Remember, the most important factor when choosing a tarot deck is finding one that resonates with you. Trust your intuition and allow yourself to enjoy the journey as you dive into the magical world of tarot.