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Tarot has fascinated minds across the ages. Today, tarot cards are beloved by spiritual seekers, artists, and even self-help enthusiasts. But despite its popularity, tarot is shrouded in myths, from supposed ties to ancient Egypt to its association with the supernatural.
Let’s explore its mysterious beginnings, clarify misconceptions, and explore why these cards have endured through centuries.
Tarot’s Beginnings

Tarot didn’t start as a mystical tool; it began as a card game in 15th-century Italy known as “tarocchi.” Originally, tarot decks resembled regular playing cards, featuring suits like swords, cups, coins, and batons. Nobles played it as a parlor game, much like we play card games today. However, these Italian card decks had an extra set of 22 trump cards, each adorned with intricate imagery that included figures like The Fool and The Empress.
Fast forward to the 18th century, and tarot’s narrative takes a turn toward mysticism. Influential thinkers like Antoine Court de Gébelin, a French pastor and Freemason, believed tarot held hidden spiritual wisdom, claiming connections to Egyptian mystery schools. Though no historical evidence supports this link, it was a powerful idea that shaped tarot’s new identity.
By the 19th century, occultists like Eliphas Levi and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn began weaving tarot into their esoteric practices. Figures like A.E. Waite and Aleister Crowley took this vision further, transforming tarot from a game into a spiritual guide.
Tarot Myths and Misconceptions
Tarot’s mystical appeal is strong, but so are the myths. Here’s a look at some common misconceptions and the truths behind them.
Myth #1: Tarot Has Egyptian Origins
One of the oldest and most enduring myths is that tarot came from ancient Egypt. This idea was popularized in the 18th century by thinkers like de Gébelin, who believed tarot carried secret Egyptian knowledge. However, no historical evidence connects this spiritual practice to Egypt. This myth likely persists because the Egyptian civilization was mysterious and symbolically rich, which fits well with tarot’s mystique. The truth is, tarot as we know it originated in Europe, and its first documented uses were far from mystical.
Myth #2: Tarot is Associated with “Dark Magic”
Tarot has long been misunderstood as a “dark” or dangerous practice, sometimes even associated with witchcraft or evil forces. This misconception largely stems from a mix of religious beliefs and fear of the unknown. In reality, tarot is a neutral tool—it reflects what the user brings to it, much like a mirror. Many tarot readers and spiritual practitioners emphasize that tarot’s purpose is not to control fate but to help individuals find clarity and introspection. This spiritual practice doesn’t summon spirits or practice magic; it’s a tool for understanding oneself.
Myth #3: Only Psychics Can Use Tarot Correctly
Another misconception is that tarot reading requires psychic abilities. While intuition certainly helps, anyone can read tarot. Tarot is less about predicting the future and more about connecting with one’s own wisdom. Each card holds symbolism and archetypes that speak to universal human experiences. Learning the cards and trusting one’s insights often leads to meaningful readings. Rather than requiring supernatural powers, tarot reading is more about self-reflection and understanding the symbolism within each card.
Symbolism of the Major and Minor Arcana
The symbolism in tarot goes beyond imagery; it dives into archetypes and universal themes.
The Major Arcana: Life’s Great Lessons
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing major life events or personal challenges. Cards like The Foolsymbolize new beginnings, The Magician represents personal power and resourcefulness, and The Tower warns of sudden change. These cards reflect significant life themes, encouraging readers to consider their own journeys. Jungian psychology relates these cards to archetypes—the fundamental roles and experiences shared by all humans.
The Minor Arcana: Daily Life and Inner Wisdom
The Minor Arcana is divided into four suits: Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit corresponds to an element, focusing on different areas of life:
- Cups (Water): Emotions, relationships, and intuition.
- Wands (Fire): Passion, creativity, and ambition.
- Swords (Air): Intellect, conflict, and decision-making.
- Pentacles (Earth): Material aspects, career, and health.
While the Major Arcana speaks to larger life events, the Minor Arcana offers insights into day-to-day issues. Through these cards, readers are encouraged to reflect on specific situations or challenges in their lives, using the symbols to navigate personal and interpersonal dynamics.
Modern Tarot: A Tool for Self-Discovery
Today, tarot has transformed from its historical role as a game and mystical tool into a powerful means of personal development and self-discovery. For many, tarot is no longer solely about divination or predicting the future; instead, it serves as a reflective practice that promotes inner growth and understanding.
This shift in perspective owes much to the influence of Carl Jung, who introduced the concept of archetypes and the collective unconscious. Jung believed that certain symbols and themes resonate across humanity, tapping into universal experiences and emotions.
Through the lens of Jungian psychology, tarot’s archetypal images—like The Fool, The High Priestess, and The Tower—become mirrors of our inner worlds. They provide insights into our subconscious thoughts, desires, and fears. Instead of simply forecasting events, tarot helps individuals explore their own psyche, illuminating aspects of their personality and life journey.
For modern tarot readers, the cards are tools for self-reflection, offering a chance to connect deeply with one’s intuition and to navigate life’s challenges with greater awareness and clarity.
From Occult Practice to Self-Care Ritual
In modern spirituality, tarot is more about self-care than prophecy. Many people use daily card pulls or tarot journaling as a way to check in with themselves, setting intentions for the day, and exploring questions they might be facing. Tarot readings have become deeply personal, helping people address their own beliefs, behaviors, and challenges. Each card offers a prompt to go deeper, bringing insights to light.
Social Media and Tarot’s Revival
With the rise of social media, this spiritual practice has seen a fresh surge in popularity. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are flooded with beautiful tarot decks and short, approachable readings, making it accessible to a new generation. This resurgence has led to new types of tarot decks, some featuring modern art styles, pop culture references, and even personalized interpretations that resonate with readers in fresh, meaningful ways.
Using Tarot as a Personal Tool
If you’re curious about tarot, getting started doesn’t require psychic powers—just curiosity and an open mind.
Choosing a Deck
There’s no single “correct” deck to start with. Choose one that resonates with you. Many people begin with the classic Rider-Waite-Smith deck due to its accessible imagery, but countless modern options are available. Look for a deck that reflects your personality and interests; the more connected you feel to the imagery, the easier it will be to interpret.
Daily Practice
Tarot can be as simple as a single card each morning. Pulling a daily card encourages mindfulness and offers a chance to reflect on your intentions. Some people journal about their daily card, noting what thoughts and feelings it evokes. This process can help build familiarity with the cards, making them more accessible over time.
Trusting Your Intuition
While tarot guides often offer interpretations for each card, your personal connection is key. Let your intuition guide you. It works best when you explore what each card evokes rather than memorizing definitions. With practice, you’ll find that the cards become a powerful reflection of your own inner wisdom.
Wrapping Up
Tarot’s true magic lies not in mystical powers, but in its ability to open doors to self-awareness. Through the rich imagery and symbolism, tarot encourages us to ask questions, explore our own beliefs, and consider our choices. Whether you’re just beginning or have been doing it for years, the cards are always there to reflect, guide, and inspire.
So, remember, it’s not about predicting your fate; it’s about taking an active role in your own journey.