What is Tarot (minus a History Lesson)

Let’s skip the part where I tell you about 15th-century or how the Tarot began. You aren’t here for a history degree; you’re here because you want to know what these 78 pieces of cardboard actually do.

At its core, Tarot is a channel for the Universe. It is a simple and easy to access way to put your finger on the pulse of the messages that are around us without too much study.

It is a symbolic language designed to reflect the energy of the present moment. While most people think Tarot is about predicting a fixed future, it’s actually about revealing the path you’re currently on.

What are Tarot Cards

A standard tarot deck has 78 cards, divided into two groups:

• The Major Arcana (22 cards): These are the “Big Picture” cards. They deal with major life themes, karmic lessons, and the stuff you can’t easily change like a mid-life crisis or a spiritual awakening. They are usually indicative of things that are fixed and not so easy to change. Like Drida Karma.
• The Minor Arcana (56 cards): This is the “Everyday” lighter stuff. Work, drama, money and emotions. They are the parts of your daily existence that are important but not life events. We can easy change or get past them with the use of free will. These can be likened to Adrida Karma.

Why Tarot Works

Tarot doesn’t make things happen. It uses synchronicity. When you shuffle, you’re essentially asking your subconscious (or the universe, pick your message) to externalize the message that you cannot see or that already know but aren’t able to consciously verbalise or visualise.

If you pull a “scary” card, it’s not a death sentence; it’s a red flag telling you to change lanes before you hit the guardrail. It’s direct, it’s often uncomfortably honest, and it’s the fastest way to get a message or a perspective easily and quickly.