Lets start from the Beginning Tarot edition
Tarot: A Journey with Avalon Cameron
Hey there, tarot lover, Avalon Cameron here. I woke up today feeling somewhat invigorated by the tarot again. It has to do with the fact that I handed in all of my line edits to my lovely editor and publisher this week. It feels like quite an accomplishment, and as I sit here thinking about the manuscript for the second edition of The Bonestone & Earthflesh tarot, I am hit with a wave of nostalgia.
Tarot has always been a big part of my life. I was the girl at school with a tarot deck and a mother who reads tarot. I was the chick in the share house with a tarot deck and a knack for love readings and Spirit Work. I have been “That Tarot Girl” for 29 years! That’s right, folks, I have almost 30 years with the tarot. The thought blows my mind.
As I was in my creative ADHD brain this morning thinking up new ideas for new tarot decks, it occurred to me that I don’t exactly have a robust and cohesive body of writing about the tarot behind me. I should. I fancy myself a writer and am about to be a traditionally published author, but I do not have a body of writing on the subject of Tarot, and I would like to. So this is me, taking action to share what I know, what I find interesting and funny, stupid and ludicrous about the tarot. But before we can get to the juicy parts, we have to start at the beginning.
A Spellbinding History
Let’s start with a bit of background, shall we? Tarot’s history is as wild and as layered as the cards themselves. Picture this: It’s the mid-15th century in Europe, and tarot cards are all the rage – not for divination, mind you, but for playing games. Fast forward to the 18th century, and these humble playing cards undergo a mystical makeover, transforming into powerful tools for divination and self-reflection.
The Rider-Waite-Smith deck, released in 1910, is a game-changer. With its vivid imagery and rich symbolism, has become the gold standard for tarot practitioners worldwide. But remember, tarot is a living, breathing tradition. It evolves, adapts, and grows, with time, and the passing of the ages have added depth and dimension to the tarot.
The Thoth Tarot, designed by Aleister Crowley and painted by Lady Frieda Harris, is another iconic deck that has left a significant mark on the world of tarot. Released in the late 1940s, this deck is known for its intricate, abstract artwork and deep esoteric symbolism. Crowley's interpretations of the cards incorporate elements of astrology, Kabbalah, and alchemy, offering a rich, complex framework for readers who enjoy delving into the mystical and metaphysical dimensions of tarot. The Thoth Tarot's unique approach makes it a favourite among those looking to explore the deeper, often more challenging aspects of their spiritual journey.
On the other hand, the Tarot de Marseille is a classic deck with a history dating back to the 16th century. This deck features bold, simplistic illustrations that reflect the artistic styles of its time, with unillustrated pip cards that require readers to rely more on numerology and traditional interpretations. The Tarot de Marseille's enduring appeal lies in its straightforward, no-nonsense approach, making it a beloved choice for traditionalists and those who appreciate its historical significance. Its timeless design and practical symbolism continue to influence and inspire tarot practitioners across generations, proving that sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
The Anatomy of a Tarot Deck
The tarot is considered by many, including myself, to be the full spectrum of the human experience. Many, again myself included, believe that the tarot represents the Fool’s journey, a concept I can very much get behind.
The concept of The Fool's Journey in tarot is utterly fascinating, as it offers a profound narrative arc that mirrors our own paths through life. This journey begins with The Fool, an innocent and adventurous spirit in search of an experience, setting out in the world with a sense of wonder and potential. As The Fool progresses through the Major Arcana, each card represents a pivotal lesson, challenge, or transformation that we encounter on our personal quests for knowledge and self-discovery. From the nurturing embrace of The Empress to the transformative power of Death and the enlightening hope of The Star, The Fool's Journey encapsulates the essence of the human experience. This allegorical odyssey not only guides us through the highs and lows of our human existence but also encourages us to embrace growth, learn from our experiences, and, ultimately, achieve a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. If we are conscious of it, Fool’s journey can be rather enlightening.
let’s now break down the deck so that we may have a much closer look at the structure of the arcana. By the way, the term "arcana" comes from the Latin word "arcanus," which means "secret" or "mysterious." In the context of tarot, "arcana" refers to the two main sections of the tarot deck: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. A standard tarot deck comprises 78 cards, divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Occasionally, you will find what we call a “happy squirrel” card in tarot. The happy squirrel card originates out of pop culture, specifically The Simpsons and tends to represent the concept of a “wild card”. My own Bonestone & Earthflesh Tarot contains ‘The Bruxa” card, which is an interpretation of a “wild” card.
Major Arcana: These 22 cards are the heavy hitters. They represent major life events, spiritual lessons, and the archetypal energies that shape our lives. Think of them as the plot twists in the grand narrative of your existence. From The Fool’s innocent beginnings to The World’s triumphant completion, each card in the Major Arcana tells a story of transformation and enlightenment.
Minor Arcana: The remaining 56 cards are split into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit contains 14 cards – ten numbered cards and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King). The Minor Arcana focuses on the day-to-day happenings of life, offering insights into our actions, emotions, thoughts, and material concerns. While the Major Arcana provides the overarching themes, the Minor Arcana dives into the nitty-gritty details.
Selecting Your Deck: Love at First Sight
Choosing your first tarot deck is a bit like falling in love. It should resonate with you on a deep, almost inexplicable level. While the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is a fantastic starting point, don’t be afraid to explore other options. There are countless decks out there, each with its own unique energy and artwork. Find the one that makes your heart sing – you’ll know it when you see it.
That said, having a Rider Wait Smith deck in your collection is always wise. I say this because there is a vast quantity of Tarot resources that consistently reference the Rider Wait Smith tarot deck and the iconic symbolism within.
Once you’ve found your deck, cleaning it of any residual energies is crucial. This is especially true if you have acquired a pre-loved deck. You can do this by smoke cleansing with Sage, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Yerba Santa or Thyme. Once you have smoke cleansed, you can then place the cards under the moonlight or shuffle them with focus and intention. Spend time getting to know your deck. Handle the cards regularly, study the images, and meditate on their meanings. This is the beginning of a beautiful relationship; like all relationships, it requires time, attention and effort. So get bonding!
Understanding the Cards: The Major Arcana
Let’s start with the big guns – the Major Arcana. These 22 cards are the backbone of the tarot deck, each one representing a significant aspect of the human experience. Here’s a quick rundown of the Major Arcana cards and their core meanings:
The Fool: New beginnings, innocence, spontaneity, and a free spirit.
The Magician: Manifestation, resourcefulness, power, inspired action.
The High Priestess: Intuition, sacred knowledge, divine feminine, the subconscious mind.
The Empress: Femininity, beauty, nature, nurturing, abundance.
The Emperor: Authority, establishment, structure, a father figure.
The Hierophant: Spiritual wisdom, religious beliefs, conformity, tradition, institutions.
The Lovers: Love, harmony, relationships, values alignment, choices.
The Chariot: Control, willpower, success, action, determination.
Strength: Courage, bravery, confidence, compassion, inner strength.
The Hermit: Soul-searching, introspection, being alone, inner guidance.
Wheel of Fortune: Good luck, karma, life cycles, destiny, a turning point.
Justice: Justice, fairness, truth, cause and effect, law.
The Hanged Man: Pause, surrender, letting go, new perspectives.
Death: Endings, change, transformation, transition.
Temperance: Balance, moderation, patience, purpose.
The Devil: Shadow self, attachment, addiction, restriction, sexuality.
The Tower: Sudden change, upheaval, chaos, revelation, awakening.
The Star: Hope, faith, purpose, renewal, spirituality.
The Moon: Illusion, fear, anxiety, subconscious, intuition.
The Sun: Positivity, fun, warmth, success, vitality.
Judgement: Judgement, rebirth, inner calling, absolution.
The World: Completion, integration, accomplishment, travel.
Each of these cards offers a wealth of insight and guidance. As you become more familiar with their meanings, you’ll start to see how they apply to your own life and the lives of those you read for.
Diving into the Minor Arcana
Now, let’s turn our attention to the Minor Arcana. These cards are divided into four suits, each representing a different aspect of life:
Wands: Associated with the element of fire, Wands represent action, inspiration, and creativity. They speak to our passions, desires, and drive to achieve our goals.
Cups: Linked to the element of water, Cups deal with emotions, relationships, and connections. They explore the depths of our feelings and the ebb and flow of our emotional experiences.
Swords: Connected to the element of air, Swords are all about intellect, thoughts, and communication. They cut through illusions and bring clarity, but they can also represent conflict and strife.
Pentacles: Corresponding to the element of earth, Pentacles focuses on the material world – our careers, finances, and physical health. They remind us of the importance of grounding and stability.
Each suit contains numbered cards (Ace through 10) and court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King). The numbered cards depict various situations and experiences, while the court cards represent different aspects of personality and stages of development. The court cards can also represent archetypal energies and people.
Wands: The Spark of Life
Associated with the element of fire, Wands are all about action, ambition, and inspiration. They represent our passions, energy, and drive to achieve our goals.
Ace of Wands: New beginnings, inspiration, potential.
Two of Wands: Planning, decisions, discovery.
Three of Wands: Progress, expansion, foresight.
Four of Wands: Celebration, harmony, home.
Five of Wands: Conflict, competition, challenges.
Six of Wands: Success, recognition, victory.
Seven of Wands: Perseverance, defense, maintaining position.
Eight of Wands: Speed, movement, swift action.
Nine of Wands: Resilience, persistence, boundaries.
Ten of Wands: Burden, responsibility, hard work.
Cups: The Flow of Emotions
Linked to the element of water, Cups delve into our emotional landscape. They explore love, relationships, and the ebb and flow of our feelings.
Ace of Cups: Love, new relationships, compassion.
Two of Cups: Partnership, mutual attraction, unity.
Three of Cups: Friendship, celebration, social gatherings.
Four of Cups: Apathy, contemplation, reevaluation.
Five of Cups: Loss, regret, disappointment.
Six of Cups: Nostalgia, memories, innocence.
Seven of Cups: Choices, fantasy, illusion.
Eight of Cups: Withdrawal, seeking deeper meaning.
Nine of Cups: Contentment, satisfaction, wish fulfillment.
Ten of Cups: Happiness, family, emotional fulfillment.
Swords: The Winds of Thought
Connected to the element of air, Swords are about intellect, thoughts, and communication. They cut through illusions, bringing clarity but also conflict.
Ace of Swords: Clarity, breakthroughs, new ideas.
Two of Swords: Indecision, stalemate, difficult choices.
Three of Swords: Heartbreak, sorrow, grief.
Four of Swords: Rest, recovery, contemplation.
Five of Swords: Conflict, defeat, self-interest.
Six of Swords: Transition, moving on, leaving behind.
Seven of Swords: Deception, strategy, cunning.
Eight of Swords: Restriction, self-imposed limitations, imprisonment.
Nine of Swords: Anxiety, worry, nightmares.
Ten of Swords: Betrayal, endings, hitting rock bottom.
Pentacles: The Grounded Reality
Corresponding to the element of earth, Pentacles focus on the material world. They deal with career, finances, and physical health, reminding us of the importance of stability and grounding.
Ace of Pentacles: New opportunities, prosperity, abundance.
Two of Pentacles: Balance, adaptability, juggling.
Three of Pentacles: Collaboration, skill, teamwork.
Four of Pentacles: Control, stability, possession.
Five of Pentacles: Hardship, poverty, isolation.
Six of Pentacles: Generosity, charity, sharing.
Seven of Pentacles: Patience, long-term investment, assessment.
Eight of Pentacles: Hard work, craftsmanship, diligence.
Nine of Pentacles: Self-sufficiency, luxury, financial gain.
Ten of Pentacles: Legacy, inheritance, long-term success.
The Tarot Court: Personalities and Roles
The court cards represent people, personalities, or aspects of ourselves and are divided into four ranks: Page, Knight, Queen, and King. Each rank has its unique characteristics and can provide additional layers of meaning in a reading.
Pages: The Fresh Faces
Pages symbolize youth, new beginnings, and the exploration of their suit’s element. They bring messages and opportunities for growth.
Page of Wands: Enthusiasm, adventure, discovery.
Page of Cups: Creativity, intuition, new emotional experiences.
Page of Swords: Curiosity, mental agility, new ideas.
Page of Pentacles: Ambition, learning, practical skills.
Knights: The Action Takers
Knights are about movement and action, each embodying the pursuit of their suit’s element with vigor and determination.
Knight of Wands: Passion, impulsiveness, pursuit of adventure.
Knight of Cups: Romance, idealism, pursuit of dreams.
Knight of Swords: Assertiveness, intellect, pursuit of truth.
Knight of Pentacles: Reliability, hard work, pursuit of goals.
Queens: The Nurturers
Queens represent maturity, understanding, and the nurturing aspects of their suit. They embody the mastery and inward expression of their element.
Queen of Wands: Confidence, determination, social leadership.
Queen of Cups: Compassion, empathy, emotional depth.
Queen of Swords: Independence, clarity, intellectual prowess.
Queen of Pentacles: Practicality, generosity, nurturing support.
Kings: The Masters
Kings signify authority, control, and the outward manifestation of their suit’s element. They are the ultimate masters of their domain.
King of Wands: Leadership, vision, entrepreneurial spirit.
King of Cups: Emotional balance, wisdom, diplomacy.
King of Swords: Strategic thinking, integrity, clear communication.
King of Pentacles: Wealth, stability, financial success.
Each of these cards, from the Ace to the King, offers a nuanced view of our everyday experiences, interactions, and personal growth. By understanding the Minor Arcana and the Court Cards, you can gain deeper insights into your life and the lives of those you read for, enriching your tarot practice with practical wisdom and incredible clarity. So practice often.
Getting Started with Tarot Reading
Now that you’ve got a handle on the cards, it’s time to start reading! Here are some tips to help you get started:
Daily Draws: Pull a card each day and reflect on its meaning. How does it relate to your current situation? What message does it have for you? Keep a tarot journal to track your daily draws and note any patterns or insights. My tip for you here is to try pulling three cards when you feel confident enough to do so. Three cards will provide you with a much greater context.
Simple Spreads: Start with simple spreads, like the three-card spread (what do I need to know, what do I need to let go and a message from the universe). This spread is great for beginners because it provides a clear structure and allows you to see how the cards interact with each other. While also providing you with insight and valuable direction. Avoid larger spreads such as The Celtic Cross. The Celtic Cross and other spreads like it are for experienced Tarot readers. But if you find yourself frothing at the bit to try the Celtic Cross spread, why not look for a trimmed-down version of the Celtic Cross, which contains fewer cards? Just a thought.
Trust Your Intuition: While it’s important to learn the traditional meanings of the cards, don’t be afraid to trust your intuition. Tarot is a deeply personal practice, and your intuitive insights are just as valuable as any textbook interpretation. With this said, don’t let yourself get too carried away. The tarot is a set structure. Every card has collections of solid meanings.
Practice with Friends: Reading for friends can be a fun and enlightening way to practice your skills. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to see how the cards play out in different contexts and for different people. Your friends make excellent guinea pigs upon which to experiment. The plus here is that you know things about your friends and, therefore, have access to this beautiful thing called context. When reading for strangers, you don’t have context, so enjoy it while you can.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush the learning process. Tarot is a lifelong journey, and there’s always something new to discover. Don’t get caught up in any competition or comparative mindset nonsense. Each Tarot reader is on their own journey. There is no need to rush and no need to compete. You might find comfort in knowing that there isn’t a tarot reader alive who knows it all. So, be patient with yourself and enjoy the ride.
Advanced Techniques and Tips
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can start exploring more advanced techniques. Here are a few to consider:
Reversals: Some readers use reversed cards to add depth to their readings. A reversed card can indicate a blockage, a need for introspection, or a different perspective. If you choose to use reversals, take the time to develop your own interpretations for them.
Elemental Dignities: This technique involves considering the elements associated with each card and how they interact with each other. For example, fire (Wands) and water (Cups) might clash, while earth (Pentacles) and water (Cups) support each other.
Numerology: Each number in the tarot deck has its own significance. Understanding the numerological meanings can add another layer of insight to your readings. For example, Aces represent new beginnings, while Tens signify completion and fulfilment.
Astrology: Many tarot cards are associated with astrological signs and planets. Learning these associations can help you understand the energies at play in a reading. For instance, The Empress is linked to Venus, the planet of love and beauty.
Themed Spreads: Create your own spreads based on specific themes or questions. This can help you tailor your readings to address particular concerns or areas of interest. For example, you might design a spread for career guidance, relationship insights, or spiritual growth.
Embracing the Magic
Tarot is a powerful tool for self-discovery, personal growth, and spiritual insight. But it’s also a lot of fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment, play, and let your creativity shine. The more you engage with the cards, the deeper you’ll dive into their mysteries and the more profound your readings will become. Embrace the symbolism, trust your intuition, and allow the cards to speak to you in their unique language. Remember, tarot is not just about predicting the future but about understanding the present and empowering yourself to make informed decisions. So, shuffle your deck, lay out the cards, and embark on this magical journey with an open heart and an adventurous spirit. Whether you’re seeking guidance, clarity, or simply a deeper connection to your inner self, the world of tarot is ready to welcome you with open arms. Happy reading!
Big love,
