When it pertains to the magical globe of tarot cards, one of the most typical questions that novices ask is, «How many cards are in a tarot deck?» The answer may amaze you, as there is not just one basic solution. In this detailed guide, we will look into the interesting background and structure of tarot card decks to discover the reality behind the number of cards in a conventional professional tarot reader tarot deck.
The Background of Tarot Card Decks
The beginnings of tarot cards can be mapped back to the 15th century, when they were first utilized in Europe as playing cards. Nevertheless, it wasn’t up until the late 18th century that tarot cards started to be made use of for divination and mystical purposes. The tarot deck as we understand it today is normally composed of 78 cards, split right into 2 primary groups: the Significant Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each of which stands for a considerable life lesson or spiritual motif. These cards are commonly seen as one of the most powerful and impactful in a tarot analysis, and they are generally phoned number from 0 to 21. The Minor Arcana, on the various other hand, contains 56 cards separated into four matches: Sticks, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. Each fit consists of 14 cards, including phoned number cards from Ace to 10, along with 4 court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.
- Major Arcana: 22 cards
- Minor Arcana: 56 cards
- Total: 78 cards
The Structure of a Typical Tarot Card Deck
While the standard tarot deck includes 78 cards, there are many variations and modifications offered in the marketplace today. Some tarot card decks may consist of additional cards, such as additional Major Arcana cards or one-of-a-kind pictures in the Minor Arcana. Nevertheless, the basic tarot card deck structure stays regular across the majority of decks.
Among one of the most preferred tarot card deck layouts is the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, which was developed in the very early 20th century by artist Pamela Colman Smith and occultist A. E. Waite. This deck follows the typical 78-card structure, with vibrant and symbolic imagery that has come to be legendary in the world of tarot. Other prominent tarot decks, such as the Thoth deck and the Tarot de Marseille, additionally adhere to the 78-card style.
The Value of 78 Cards
So, why exist 78 cards in a common tarot card deck? The number 78 has deep symbolic and mystical value in numerology and heavy practices. In numerology, 7 is frequently associated with instinct, spirituality, and knowledge, while 8 represents infinity, abundance, and success. When integrated, these numbers produce an effective blend of energies that can supply profound insights and guidance in a tarot card reading.
- 7 (intuition, spirituality, wisdom)
- 8 (infinity, abundance, success)
Final thought
To conclude, a conventional tarot card deck contains 78 cards, which are divided right into the Significant Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Significant Arcana consists of 22 cards that signify significant life lessons, while the Minor Arcana includes 56 cards that stand for day-to-day experiences and obstacles. The number 78 holds deep symbolic significance in numerology and tarot practices, making it a powerful and significant tool for divination and spiritual development.
Whether you are a skilled fortune-teller or a curious newbie, discovering the structure and symbolism of a tarot card deck can unlock a globe of insights and ideas. With 78 cards at hand, the possibilities for self-discovery and individual growth are unlimited.
So, the following time you grab a tarot deck for a reading, remember the rich history and intricate design behind those 78 cards, and allow the magic of the tarot guide you on your spiritual journey.
