Tarot cards are a type of playing cards that are used for divination, spiritual guidance, and self-discovery. They are typically composed of 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana (22 cards) and Minor Arcana (56 cards). Each card has a specific meaning and symbolism, and is believed to represent various aspects of life, including the past, present, and future.
The origins of tarot cards are unclear, but it is believed that they were first used in Italy during the 15th century. Initially, tarot cards were used for playing games, much like traditional playing cards. It wasn’t until the 18th century that tarot cards began to be used for divination and spiritual purposes.
Tarot cards are typically read by a tarot reader, who shuffles the deck and lays out a spread of cards in a specific pattern. The reader then interprets the cards, based on their position in the spread, their symbolism, and their relation to other cards in the spread.
The Major Arcana cards are often seen as the most important cards in the deck, representing major life events and spiritual lessons. These cards include iconic images such as The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, The Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, and Judgement.