The process of reading tarot cards dates back to centuries ago. In The Game of Tarot, Michael A. E. Dummett writes that, while the first complete deck appeared in 15th century Italy, using the cards to divine one's future and inner self only came into vogue in France, in the late 1700s. Others suggest that tarot has roots in ancient Egypt (although its supposed source text, the Book of Thoth, offers little evidence of this).
However they got their start, tarot cards are old and mysterious in origin, and they're loaded with meaning. It may take a practiced hand and mind to assess their true significance, but newcomers shouldn't find them inaccessible: In spite of its storied past, tarot reading can be easily adopted — as long as the adopter is ready to learn.
The first step to becoming a competent diviner is to select a tarot deck and connect with it. Touching the cards and using them every day is said to help form this relationship, but there are other, more specific ways to commit yourself to the cards' development. Charging them by leaving them under the sun and moon, sleeping with them under your pillow, and even cleansing them with salt is said to help you get to know your cards.
Whether you're seeking your first taste of spiritual guidance or you just want to expand your collection, there's a tarot deck out there for you. Ahead, we've rounded up some of our favorites. Happy reading.
Visconti Tarot
This is one of the oldest forms of the complete tarot, and it's said to have been made for one of the first and most enthusiastic tarot players, Bianca Maria Visconti — a woman who was clearly very ahead of her time.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.
Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot
Founded on the idea that tarot came from ancient Egypt, this is a great beginner's deck. To this day, it's still considered one of the most informative and comprehensive takes on tarot.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.
Sacred Isle Tarot
This deck is made in the Rider-Waite style, and it's just as popular as the Crowley Thoth deck, if not more so. Again, another great choice if you're just beginning your journey.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.
Babylonian Tarot
Although little to nothing is known about the prevalence of tarot in Babylonia, this style demonstrates the universality of the cards' meanings. Symbols like the Chariot, the Sun, and more find their place among the Babylonian, Sumerian, and Mesopotamian myths referenced on the cards.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.
DruidCraft Tarot
This specific deck is one of many which draw on Wiccan and Pagan traditions — both are nature-based faiths, to inform the cards' readings. Tarot and nature-based faiths draw on numerology, making their union not just obvious, but particularly harmonious.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.
Affirmations for the Everyday Goddess Tarot
Each card is adorned with a motto that speaks to its symbol — the Emperor's reads, "I lead with wisdom, integrity, and virtue," while the Fool's states, "I ask the question and cultivate an open mind." Not only is this deck beautifully designed, with luminous illustrations of powerful women, its accompanying affirmations add another layer of meaning to the reading.
Photo: Courtesy of Aeclectic Tarot.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
10 Women Share What They're Actually Doing For Lent This Year