Using & Choosing Tarot Cards

by Ashli Plake

History

Tarot cards are believed to have originated in Europe during the 15th century, initially serving as playing cards for games like tarocchi. The earliest surviving decks, such as the Visconti-Sforza deck from Italy, boasted intricate artwork and symbolic imagery. While their precise origins are unclear, some speculate they may have evolved from Mamluk playing cards introduced to Europe from the Islamic world. Over time, tarot cards became associated with esoteric practices, including divination and mysticism, particularly in the 18th century. This shift in perception transformed tarot into a tool for spiritual exploration, self-reflection, and the pursuit of deeper understanding.

Uses in Witchcraft
In witchcraft, tarot cards are versatile tools utilized for divination, spellwork, and spiritual exploration. Witches employ tarot decks to gain insights into past, present, and future events through divinatory readings, seeking guidance and clarity in their magical practice. Tarot cards also play a role in spellwork and rituals, serving as focal points for intention-setting and amplifying magical energy. Additionally, tarot is employed in shadow work, aiding witches in exploring hidden aspects of the self for personal growth and healing. Through meditation and reflection on the symbolism within the cards, witches deepen their connection to the divine and gain self-awareness, making tarot an integral part of their spiritual journey.
How to Use & What to Avoid
Using tarot cards effectively involves setting clear intentions, shuffling the deck with focus, drawing cards intuitively, interpreting their meanings, and reflecting on insights gained. It's essential to trust your intuition throughout the process and to apply the wisdom gleaned from the reading to your life with clarity and confidence. However, it's important to avoid overreliance on tarot for decision-making, fear-based inquiries, interfering with free will, ignoring ethical considerations, and becoming obsessive. Tarot should be approached with respect, integrity, and a commitment to empowering oneself and others. With mindful practice and ethical awareness, tarot can serve as a powerful tool for personal growth, insight, and empowerment.
 
Questions to Ask 
  1. What do I need to focus on for personal growth right now?
  2. What challenges or obstacles should I be aware of in the near future?
  3. What is the best approach for improving my current relationship (romantic, friendship, or family)?
  4. What opportunities are available to me in my career or life path?
  5. How can I cultivate more balance and harmony in my life?

Best Way to Choose Your Deck

The best way to choose a tarot deck that resonates with you is to trust your intuition and connect with the imagery and symbolism that speaks to you on a personal level. Start by exploring different tarot decks online or in person, paying attention to the artwork, themes, and aesthetic appeal of each deck. Consider your own interests, beliefs, and spiritual practices, and choose a deck that aligns with your preferences and intuition. It's also helpful to read reviews or watch walkthroughs of the deck to get a sense of its energy and symbolism. Allow yourself to be drawn to a deck that feels comfortable and inspiring, as your connection with the cards is crucial for effective readings and personal exploration. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, so trust your instincts and choose a tarot deck that feels right for you.

 

All in all in exploring the multifaceted world of tarot, we've uncovered its ancient origins as playing cards in Europe, evolving into a powerful tool for divination and spiritual exploration. Tarot's significance lies in its rich symbolism, intuitive interpretation, and its ability to offer guidance, insight, and empowerment. Whether used for personal growth, spell work, or spiritual guidance in witchcraft, tarot cards serve as versatile companions on the journey of self-discovery. However, it's essential to approach tarot with respect, ethical awareness, and a balance of intuition and discernment. By asking thoughtful questions and trusting our intuition, we can harness the transformative power of tarot to navigate life's challenges, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace the magic within. Through the intricate artwork, archetypal symbolism, and personal connection with the cards, tarot becomes more than just a tool—it becomes a mirror reflecting the depths of our souls and a guiding light on our path to wholeness and wisdom.

 

Thanks for reading and Stay Magical!

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