The basic definition
Tarot (first known as Tarocchi) is a set of cards initially used as a set of playing cards from 15th century Italy and was used to play trick-taking games like Tarocchini. Soon tarot spread across Europe, evolving into new forms like the German Grosstarok, the French Tarot, and the Austrian Königrufen.
The tarot we know today is now used as a form of cartomancy throughout the world, though mostly in English and Spanish speaking countries where the games are not played. Tarot decks now are primarily used for tarot card readings, where each card corresponds to an assigned archetype or interpretation for divination, fortune-telling, or other non-gaming uses.
Tarot is not the only deck used for cartomancy, witches can also use oracle decks, or even normal playing cards!
How to cleanse a deck
Cleansing is crucial to using a tarot deck since you don't want any negative energy stuck onto the cards. There are many ways to cleanse a deck, and everyone cleanses differently! When you buy a new deck, it's important to let them cleanse in the sunlight, smoked by incense, or being stored near crystals. When it comes to cleaning after regular use, shuffling is a quick and effective way of cleansing.
There are more than just these however, and I strongly recommend doing some research and experimentation to see what works best for you.
Common Tarot Spreads
Basic spreads
- Single card
- Three cards (popular use is for the "past, present, future" spread)
- Five cards (Amount often used for more in-depth readings)
Complex spreads
- Celtic cross
- Horseshoe
There are more spreads everywhere online that you can use, and it is important to note that not everyone uses spreads, and the amount of cards you pick can be up to your intuition. It is also important to note that you do not always need a question to conduct a reading, it can be as simple as looking into the “vibes” instead.
