For anyone interested in reading Tarot card meanings, the hardest part is probably learning the meaning of a whole deck. A Tarot deck is a collection of 78 cards, each of which contains its own meaning. There are 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards divided into 4 suits which are Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit consists of 10 cards numbered from Ace to Ten and 4 Court cards, in which Ace cards are replaced for card number 1 and 4 Court cards are respectively King, Queen, Knight, and Page.
Tarot cards all have upright and reversed meanings. Some cards in Minor Arcana can be associated or directly linked to cards in Major Arcana. Similarly, when combining in a Tarot spread, they produce specific reading results, making it easier for the reader to analyze the querent’s situation, as well as making querent feel the accuracy and specificity of the Tarot spread.
Most online documents only offer a short description or general meaning which makes them quite vague and confusing, especially for new beginners. The meaning of these 78 Tarot cards using images based on the standards of Rider Waite Smith and are divided into keywords, how to apply in action, support and opposite cards, detailed descriptions, applications in each Tarot spread about work, love, finance, health, mentality while offering advice for certain situations and human implications.
These Tarot meanings are only suggestive and not imposing. They will make sense based on your story and situation. For most cards, you will feel that the interpretation is very suitable, but if there is a card that reminds you of another meaning, you should not be afraid to follow your own intuition.
In some different Tarot decks, cards will have different names (however, they still have the same meaning). In this article, we only use names and card images in accordance with Rider Waite Smith standard to create readability for users.
The table below is a list of Top 50 Tarot decks for both beginners and experienced readers. The most popular and widely used of these are 3 decks according to Rider, Thoth and Marseille standards. For some decks with different themes, the card’s name can be changed, however, their general meaning still remains the same.
Top 50 Essential Tarot Decks
| 1. Rider Waite Tarot | 26. Animism Tarot |
|---|---|
| 2. Thoth Tarot | 27. Animal Totem Tarot |
| 3. Tarot of Marseilles | 28. Mystical Cats Tarot |
| 4. Deviant Moon Tarot | 29. Fantastical Creatures Tarot |
| 5. Wildwood Tarot | 30. The Tarot of Trees |
| 6. Druidcraft Tarot | 31. Lover’s Path Tarot |
| 7. Morgan Greer Tarot | 32. Decameron Tarot |
| 8. Gilded Tarot | 33. Kamasutra Tarot |
| 9. Steampunk Tarot | 34. Tarot of Sexual Magic |
| 10. Shadowscapes Tarot | 35. Manara: Erotic Tarot |
| 11. Transparent Tarot | 36. Tarot of Casanova |
| 12. Tarot of the Silicon Dawn | 37. Witches Tarot |
| 13. Cosmos Tarot and Oracle | 38. Wizards Tarot |
| 14. Circle of Life Tarot | 39. Silver Witchcraft Tarot |
| 15. Book of Shadows Tarot | 40. Green Witch Tarot |
| 16. Chrysalis Tarot | 41. Modern Spellcaster’s Tarot |
| 17. Linestrider Tarot | 42. Gothic Tarot |
| 18. Tarot of the New Vision | 43. Dark Grimoire Tarot |
| 19. Lost Code of Tarot | 44. Necronomicon Tarot |
| 20. Dreams of Gaia Tarot | 45. Tarot of Vampyres |
| 21. Osho Zen Tarot | 46. Daemon Tarot |
| 22. Sacred India Tarot | 47. Tyldwick Tarot |
| 23. Buddha Tarot | 48. Alice Tarot |
| 24. Pagan Tarot | 49. Alchemia Tarot |
| 25. Hermetic Tarot | 50. Bohemian Gothic Tarot |
| 51. Wild Unknown Tarot | |
| 52. Mermaid Tarot |
Menu of Contents
I. Exploring the World of Tarot Decks: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Deck
1.1 Introduction
Tarot decks have captivated individuals for centuries, offering profound insights, guidance, and inspiration. Whether you’re a seasoned tarot enthusiast or a curious beginner, embarking on a journey to find the perfect tarot deck can be both exciting and overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the world of tarot decks, providing you with essential knowledge and considerations to help you navigate the vast array of options available. Join us as we uncover the keys to finding a tarot deck that resonates with your unique energy and fulfills your spiritual aspirations.
1.2 Understanding Tarot Decks
Before diving into the search for your ideal tarot deck, it’s crucial to grasp the fundamental aspects of tarot and its significance. Tarot decks consist of 78 cards, each brimming with symbolism and meaning. These cards are divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana represents significant life events and profound spiritual lessons, while the Minor Arcana portrays everyday experiences and influences. Understanding these components will lay a solid foundation for your exploration of tarot decks and enhance your interpretive abilities.
1.3 Factors to Consider
Finding the perfect tarot deck is a deeply personal and intuitive process. Several factors can influence your choice, and considering them thoughtfully will guide you toward a deck that aligns with your needs and preferences.
Let’s explore some essential considerations:
Artistic Style and Imagery:
Tarot decks come in a wide range of artistic styles, from classic to modern, abstract to realistic. Reflect on the types of imagery that resonate with you on an emotional and spiritual level. Do you prefer traditional symbolism or contemporary interpretations? Exploring different artistic styles will help you connect with a deck that visually captures your imagination and evokes a profound response.
Intuitive Connection:
Tarot decks possess distinct energies and personalities. Holding a deck in your hands and tuning into its energy can reveal if it harmonizes with your intuition. Trust your instincts and choose a deck that speaks to you on an intuitive level. The connection between you and your deck is a vital element in developing a profound and accurate tarot practice.
Reading Style and Interpretation:
Consider your preferred reading style. Some decks are designed for specific reading techniques, such as intuitive readings or traditional spreads. Determine whether you resonate with a particular reading approach or if you prefer a versatile deck that allows for diverse interpretations. Finding a deck that complements your reading style will enhance your experience and yield more accurate and insightful readings.
Theme and Symbolism:
Tarot decks often incorporate various themes and symbols, ranging from mythology and nature to astrology and spirituality. Reflect on the themes that inspire and deeply resonate with you. Choosing a deck that aligns with your interests or spiritual path can enhance your connection to the Tarot card meanings and infuse your readings with greater depth and meaning.
1.4 Exploring Tarot Deck Options
With a clear understanding of your preferences and considerations, it’s time to embark on the quest to find your perfect tarot deck. Researching and exploring different decks is an exciting process that allows you to discover hidden gems and uncover decks that resonate with your unique energy.
Consider visiting local metaphysical stores or exploring reputable online platforms to access a vast selection of tarot decks. Read reviews, view sample images, and delve into the deck’s accompanying guidebook, if available. Take note of the decks that catch your attention and evoke a sense of intrigue.
As you explore, trust your intuition and be open to unexpected discoveries. Attend tarot meetups or workshops where you can interact with various decks and gain insights from experienced practitioners. Engage in discussions with fellow tarot enthusiasts to gain valuable perspectives and recommendations.
II. Understanding Tarot Decks
Having a profound connection with this old divination method requires understanding tarot decks. You can empower yourself to participate in meaningful self-reflection, gain insights, and unlock the wisdom that tarot decks have to give by understanding the symbolism, structure, and the significance of tarot card meanings.
1. A Brief Overview of Tarot and Its Significance
Tarot, a centuries-old system of divination, has intrigued and captivated individuals seeking insight, guidance, and self-discovery. Derived from the Italian word “tarocchi,” tarot decks consist of 78 cards divided into the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana represents powerful archetypal energies and significant life events, while the Minor Arcana reflects everyday experiences and influences.
The significance of tarot lies in its ability to tap into the collective unconscious and connect with our intuition. Each tarot card meanings carries rich symbolism, inviting us to explore the depths of our psyche and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Through tarot readings, we can access hidden knowledge, illuminate our path, and make informed decisions.
Tarot decks serve as powerful tools for self-reflection, personal growth, and spiritual development. They encourage introspection, providing a mirror for our emotions, desires, and fears. Tarot readings can shed light on patterns, choices, and potential outcomes, empowering us to make conscious decisions and navigate life’s challenges with clarity and wisdom.
While tarot is often associated with fortune-telling, its true essence lies in the interpretation and exploration of symbols and archetypes. It invites us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into our intuition and higher consciousness. Tarot decks act as portals, facilitating a connection between our conscious and subconscious minds, enabling us to access insights and wisdom beyond the realm of logic and rationality.
Whether you approach tarot as a spiritual practice, a tool for personal growth, or a means of divination, the significance of tarot decks cannot be overstated.
2. Decoding the Symbolism: How Tarot Decks Connect with Our Subconscious
Tarot decks are not mere sets of cards; they are intricate repositories of symbolism that hold the key to unlocking the depths of our subconscious minds. These decks act as a bridge, connecting our conscious awareness with the hidden realms of intuition, archetypes, and collective wisdom. By delving into the symbolism of tarot, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and tap into a profound source of guidance and insight.
Each tarot card meanings are adorned with a myriad of symbols, colors, and images that evoke specific emotions and resonate with universal archetypes. These symbols speak directly to our subconscious, bypassing the rational mind and accessing a deeper level of understanding. Through the language of symbolism, tarot decks communicate with our inner selves, unraveling the mysteries of our experiences, emotions, and aspirations.
As we explore the symbolism of tarot, we begin to recognize patterns and connections that exist beyond the surface level of our consciousness. The imagery on the cards serves as a mirror, reflecting our deepest desires, fears, and truths. By deciphering the symbols, we gain insights into our own psyche and uncover the underlying forces that shape our lives.
Tarot decks connect with our subconscious through the process of intuition. When we engage with the cards, we tap into our intuitive faculties, allowing the symbols to speak directly to our inner knowing. As we interpret the cards, their messages resonate on a profound level, guiding us towards self-reflection, growth, and transformation.
Moreover, tarot symbolism is not fixed or rigid; it is dynamic and fluid, allowing for personal interpretation and resonance. The same symbol may evoke different meanings for different individuals, reflecting their unique experiences and perspectives. This flexibility empowers us to forge a personal connection with the tarot, embracing its guidance in a way that aligns with our own intuition and wisdom.
III. Choosing the Right Tarot Deck
Tarot deck selection is a highly individualized and intuitive procedure. You can choose a tarot deck that connects with your energy, improves your readings, and aids in your spiritual development by taking into account elements like creative style, intuitive connection, reading style, and theme interests. Trust your gut and confidently set out on this transformative trip.
Top 50 Essential Tarot Decks
| 1. Rider Waite Tarot | 26. Animism Tarot |
|---|---|
| 2. Thoth Tarot | 27. Animal Totem Tarot |
| 3. Tarot of Marseilles | 28. Mystical Cats Tarot |
| 4. Deviant Moon Tarot | 29. Fantastical Creatures Tarot |
| 5. Wildwood Tarot | 30. The Tarot of Trees |
| 6. Druidcraft Tarot | 31. Lover’s Path Tarot |
| 7. Morgan Greer Tarot | 32. Decameron Tarot |
| 8. Gilded Tarot | 33. Kamasutra Tarot |
| 9. Steampunk Tarot | 34. Tarot of Sexual Magic |
| 10. Shadowscapes Tarot | 35. Manara: Erotic Tarot |
| 11. Transparent Tarot | 36. Tarot of Casanova |
| 12. Tarot of the Silicon Dawn | 37. Witches Tarot |
| 13. Cosmos Tarot and Oracle | 38. Wizards Tarot |
| 14. Circle of Life Tarot | 39. Silver Witchcraft Tarot |
| 15. Book of Shadows Tarot | 40. Green Witch Tarot |
| 16. Chrysalis Tarot | 41. Modern Spellcaster’s Tarot |
| 17. Linestrider Tarot | 42. Gothic Tarot |
| 18. Tarot of the New Vision | 43. Dark Grimoire Tarot |
| 19. Lost Code of Tarot | 44. Necronomicon Tarot |
| 20. Dreams of Gaia Tarot | 45. Tarot of Vampyres |
| 21. Osho Zen Tarot | 46. Daemon Tarot |
| 22. Sacred India Tarot | 47. Tyldwick Tarot |
| 23. Buddha Tarot | 48. Alice Tarot |
| 24. Pagan Tarot | 49. Alchemia Tarot |
| 25. Hermetic Tarot | 50. Bohemian Gothic Tarot |
| 51. Wild Unknown Tarot | |
| 52. Mermaid Tarot |
1. Finding Your Perfect Match: Factors to Consider When Selecting a Tarot Deck
Selecting a tarot deck is a highly personal decision that requires careful consideration. To find a deck that resonates with your energy and supports your spiritual journey, there are several factors to reflect upon. First, consider the artistic style and imagery of the deck, exploring different styles to see which aligns with your aesthetic preferences. Establishing an intuitive connection is also vital; hold the deck in your hands and sense its energy to determine if it feels comfortable and attuned to your vibrations. Reflect on your preferred reading style and interpretation methods, choosing a deck that complements your approach. Additionally, consider the theme and symbolism of the deck, selecting one that aligns with your interests and spiritual path. Lastly, assess the accompanying guidebook’s availability and quality, as it can significantly impact your learning experience. Balancing intuition, personal preference, and practical considerations is key to finding the perfect tarot deck. Trust your instincts, explore different options, and allow the right deck to unfold naturally. Remember that your relationship with the deck will evolve over time, deepening your connection and guiding you on your path of self-discovery and transformation. Embrace the process, and you will discover a deck that becomes a trusted companion on your spiritual journey.
2. Tarot Deck Personalities: Match Your Energy with the Ideal Deck
Just as individuals possess unique personalities, tarot decks also carry distinct energies and personalities of their own. Matching your energy with the right tarot deck is essential for establishing a deep and meaningful connection. Consider the following aspects when seeking the ideal deck that aligns with your energy:
Energy Vibration: Pay attention to the overall energy vibration of the deck. Does it feel calming, vibrant, or mystical? Choose a deck whose energy resonates with your own, as it will enhance your intuitive connection and facilitate more accurate readings.
Archetypal Alignment: Different tarot decks emphasize different archetypes and themes. Explore decks that align with your personal interests, spiritual beliefs, or areas of growth. Whether you resonate with ancient mythologies, nature-based symbolism, or esoteric systems, finding a deck that reflects your archetypal resonance will deepen your connection with the cards.
Intuitive Attraction: Trust your intuition when selecting a tarot deck. As you explore various decks, pay attention to the ones that catch your eye or evoke a strong emotional response. Intuitive attraction often indicates a compatibility between your energy and the deck’s energy.
Remember that finding the ideal tarot deck is a personal journey. Take your time to explore and interact with different decks, attending to how they make you feel and the messages they convey. When you find the deck that matches your energy, you will unlock a powerful tool for self-reflection, guidance, and personal growth.
IV. Finding Your Tarot Deck Companion: A Journey of Exploration and Self-Discovery
Selecting a tarot deck is more than a simple purchase; it is an invitation to embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery. As you navigate the vast array of options, trust your intuition and follow your inner guidance. Allow yourself to be drawn to the deck that resonates with your energy, aesthetics, and spiritual path. Embrace the process of connecting with different decks, holding them in your hands, and feeling their energy.
Through this journey, you will establish a profound bond with your tarot deck, one that evolves over time and becomes a trusted companion on your path. Let the tarot deck reveal hidden insights, inspire self-reflection, and provide guidance. Embrace the transformative power of the cards as you embark on a personal and enriching adventure, deepening your understanding of yourself and the world around you. The search for your tarot deck companion is a sacred quest that opens doors to self-knowledge, intuition, and spiritual growth. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and you will discover a deck that becomes a cherished ally on your path of self-discovery.
