What is Tarot?

雪梅 徐
雪梅 徐
Oracle card reader and intuitive guide.

You can think of it as a set of "picture tools" for having a conversation with yourself.

Tarot cards consist of 78 cards, adorned with various figures, scenes, and symbols. They are divided into two main parts:

  1. 22 'Major Arcana' cards: These are the main characters of the story, representing significant themes, turning points, or major life lessons we need to learn. For example, 'The Fool' signifies the start of a new journey, and 'The World' represents the successful completion of a phase.
  2. 56 'Minor Arcana' cards: These are more akin to specific daily events, emotions, and challenges. They are divided into four 'suits' (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles), each corresponding to our drive/action, emotions, intellect/thoughts, and material life, respectively.

So, how exactly does it 'tell fortunes'?

In fact, many people misunderstand it. Tarot is more like a mirror than a crystal ball that predicts the future.

When you draw cards with a question in mind, you're not asking "What will happen in the future?" but rather "What is my current state regarding this matter?" or "What aspects have I overlooked?"

The images on the cards stimulate your associations and intuition, allowing you to view your problem from a fresh perspective. They 'speak' to you through images, revealing what your subconscious already knows but hasn't fully processed. The process of interpreting the cards is like deciphering a short story directed by yourself, helping you clarify your thoughts, understand your current situation, and ultimately make choices that are better suited for you.

So, don't think of it as too mysterious. It's simply a tool to help you better understand yourself, gain insights, and receive guidance, much like talking to a friend when you're troubled. The only difference is that this time, you're conversing with the 'wisdom on the cards' and 'your own inner self'.