Are you preparing to explore the world of divination? Have you been wondering what this whole oracle and tarot card thing is all about?
Whether you want to learn more about yourself or become a better reader for others, the first step is knowing which type of card reading, to begin with.
People use these divination tools to tap into complex matters of their life and seek guidance. You can also do psychic readings to find your true love, make business decisions, and even sort out the family drama.
But, should you start with tarot or oracle? What makes each card deck so unique?
The answer depends on what kind of reading experience you’re looking for. Oracle cards are the best friends of beginners. Their attractive and intuitive artwork speaks to the soul. Tarot cards are more complex, with deeper meanings and a richer context. You need to invest a lot of time to master them.
Let’s first understand some key differences between oracle and tarot cards. You’ll also learn tips on picking the right deck for you!
Understanding the Difference
Before we discuss the factors to help you decide, let’s talk about some differences between them.
Tarot Cards
Tarot cards have a long history. A tarot deck contains 78 cards divided into two parts: The Major Arcana and Minor Arcana.
- The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that represent life’s karmic and spiritual lessons.
- While the Minor Arcana is made up of 56 cards related to everyday matters.
- The symbols on each card represent various aspects of life (love, career, and health).
- For example, the Lovers card typically represents relationships, while the Tower card symbolizes upheaval or chaos.
You must learn to interpret tarot combinations to get an accurate reading. This is a difficult process for beginners. So many people prefer to use oracle cards instead.
Oracle Cards
Oracle decks generally contain 35 to 64 cards with unique art and messages printed on them.
- Unlike tarot, there is no set structure or system that all oracle decks adhere to – each deck is unique.
- Oracle cards focus on a specific theme, such as love, abundance, or healing.
- Oracle card reading is more straightforward than tarot reading.
Most of the time, you just pick one card, and the message written on it gives you guidance for your current situation.
Unlike tarot, there are “no rules” while interpreting them. It all depends on how you connect with the artwork and message printed on the card itself.
What You’re First Exposed To?
When choosing between tarot or oracle cards, consider the type of readings you’ve been exposed to. If you’ve seen friends do tarot and it fascinates you, starting with tarot is the right choice.
But if you haven’t been exposed to either one, try a few online tutorials and see which method resonates more with you. Let’s say you are drawn to the oracle’s beautiful imagery and colorful cards; go for it like a true diviner.
What’s Your Intention?
Another important factor is what kind of direction you are looking for. If you intend to gain insights into a specific problem or area of your life, tarot is better suited than oracle.
But for a general reading to get more broad-based advice, oracles are ideal. Tarot provides deeper answers, while oracle can give you a broader yet less specific picture.
What Does Your Intuition Say After Touching Them?
Have you visited a shop or online store and seen the cards in person? If so, pay attention to what’s happening in your body.
- Which type of cards makes you feel more energized and connected?
- Do you like looking at them and feeling what each deck has to offer?
- It doesn’t matter which one you purchase if it speaks to your heartstrings.
There is something magical about the cards. Don’t hesitate to go with your gut feeling when deciding which set is best for you.
Oracle Cards: Appropriate for Beginners
Oracle cards are considered easier for beginners to start with. They don’t require you to learn any complex system or symbolism. Here are some plus points of why you should try an oracle deck.
1. Fluid System
Unlike tarot, each deck of oracle cards is unique. It means you don’t have to learn any structured system, as most decks differ from each other.
Suppose you purchase five sets of the oracle; the difference in their number, artwork, and themes will be significant.
2. Easier To Learn
Imagine if you had to learn 78 cards and the meanings behind them. It could take months of study, but it can be done quickly with oracle decks.
The messages are simple and easy to understand. So there is no need to worry about memorizing complex symbols or understanding different meanings.
3. Energies Are More Open to Interpretation
Oracle cards are like a blank canvas awaiting you to create your own interpretation. It allows you to look at an issue from different angles and develop creative solutions. For example, if you’re stuck with a problem, draw an oracle card and get inspired by its message.
Tarot Cards: For Those With Experience
Coming to tarot, it offers a more structured approach. Tarot decks consist of 78 cards divided into two parts – the Major and Minor Arcana.
If you’re inclined to learn about symbols, astrology, and metaphysical meanings associated with each card, tarot is for you.
A Deeper Dive Into Your Questions
Tarot cards provide more detailed and specific answers to your questions.
For a question like, “What should I do to make more money?”, tarot gives insightful information on achieving better financial success.
It could be a piece of advice such as “Focus on developing skills that are in demand” or “Take the time to create a small business.”
Requires More Practice To Master
You also receive a guide in the form of a reference book to help you understand the complexities of each card.
But with that said, tarot takes more time to master. Mastering 78 cards takes a month or several months of practice depending on how much you study. And once you get the hang of them, your tarot readings become more accurate and detailed.
Pro Tip: Use Both Tarot and Oracle Cards
What if I tell you that you can use tarot and oracle cards together? Combining the two reading styles is a great way to gain insights from different perspectives.
- Unbox both decks.
- Mix some cards from tarot and oracle in one spread.
- Start shuffling the cards and focus on a question or topic.
- Lay down the mixed cards on a table.
- Close your eyes, rethink the query, and pull a card from the spread.
- See how the card answers a particular question.
Congratulations! You’ve just tested the most powerful technique to dive into the matters of your love life, career, family, or health.
Wrapping It Up
In conclusion, both tarot and oracle cards are used to get insights into our lives. Whether you’re just starting with divination or have been practicing for years, it’s essential to find the type of card that works best for you.
If you want something more structured with strict rules, go with tarot. But if free-form interpretations speak to you, opt for an oracle deck. Finally, your intuition and natural affinity to the cards steer you in the right direction!
