The different Tarot decks

Exploring Tarot Decks: A Guide for Beginners

Until the early 20th century, the numbered cards of the Minor Arcana were as expressively illustrated as our regular playing cards. These older cards, known as the “Tarot of Marseille,” feature only the number and the symbol of the suit. The Rider-Waite Tarot cards, published around 1909-1910, were the first to offer illustrations for the Minor Arcana. The addition of pictures to aid interpretation and understanding of all 78 cards significantly boosted the deck’s popularity.

The Search for Mysticism

However, some find the simplicity and “naivety” of these images disappointing, seeking something more mystical, magical, and mysterious. Many of these individuals eventually discover the Aleister Crowley Tarot, whose images, besides their magical allure, possess an incredible wealth of symbolism.

The Challenge of Interpretation

The challenge lies in understanding this symbolism to fully grasp the cards’ meanings. Beginners, in particular, often feel overwhelmed by the Crowley cards’ complexity. Another difficulty is the temptation to interpret based solely on the names of the Minor Arcana, often missing the symbolism’s point.

The Abundance of Tarot Decks

With hundreds of Tarot decks published and new ones continually being produced, beginners often struggle with choosing the right one. Many people understandably select cards that aesthetically appeal to them. However, the problem arises when interpreting the cards, as meanings can vary across different decks.

Choosing the Right Tarot Deck

When choosing a deck, especially more exotic ones, it’s crucial to check whether useful interpretive texts accompany it. Most literature is available on the Rider-Waite cards and the Crowley Tarot.

From: Tarot for Everyone, Hajo Banzhaf

Start your tarot journey with ease – explore our beginner-friendly tarot cards here!