How many cards should a beginner start with?

When it comes to starting your journey with Tarot, one of the first questions that may come to mind is how many cards you should begin with. As a beginner, it's important to strike a balance between simplicity and depth, allowing yourself to gradually immerse in the world of Tarot without feeling overwhelmed.

Traditionally, a Tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing a significant life lesson or archetype. These cards, such as The Fool, The Magician, and The World, hold powerful symbolism and offer profound insights into the human experience.

On the other hand, the Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit represents a different aspect of life, such as emotions, material possessions, thoughts, and actions. The Minor Arcana cards provide more specific guidance and offer practical advice for navigating everyday situations.

For beginners, I recommend starting with a smaller subset of the Tarot deck to make the learning process more manageable. A popular approach is to begin with the Major Arcana cards alone. This allows you to focus on the core themes and archetypes that underpin the Tarot, providing a solid foundation for your journey.

By working with the Major Arcana cards, you can develop a deep understanding of the universal life lessons they represent. Each card tells a story and offers unique insights into various aspects of your life, helping you gain clarity and guidance. This focused approach allows you to grasp the essence of Tarot symbolism and develop your intuition without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of cards.

Once you feel comfortable and confident with the Major Arcana, you can gradually introduce the Minor Arcana cards into your practice. This step-by-step approach allows you to deepen your understanding of the Tarot and expand your interpretations. You can start by adding one suit at a time, exploring the nuances and meanings associated with each suit.

Remember, Tarot is a personal journey, and there are no hard and fast rules. Some beginners may prefer to start with a smaller subset of the Minor Arcana cards, such as the Aces or the Court cards, before moving on to the full deck. Others may choose to work with a complete deck right from the beginning. The key is to find an approach that resonates with you and supports your learning style.

As you embark on your Tarot journey, I encourage you to explore different resources, such as books, online courses, and reputable websites like More Tarot, to deepen your knowledge and understanding. Practice regularly, trust your intuition, and allow the cards to guide you on your path of self-discovery and personal growth.

Remember, Tarot is a tool for self-reflection and empowerment, and with time and practice, you'll develop your own unique relationship with the cards. Enjoy the journey, and may the Tarot be a source of wisdom and inspiration in your life.

Jasper Stone

History, Tarot Reading, Symbolism, Mythology, Literature

Jasper Stone is a Tarot scholar and historian. He has spent years studying the history and evolution of the Tarot, and is fascinated by the rich symbolism and mythology embedded in the cards. Jasper is also a skilled reader, known for his analytical approach and his ability to uncover hidden meanings and connections.