The Mysterious History of Tarot
The history of tarot is a fascinating journey through time, filled with mystique and intrigue. From its humble beginnings as a deck of playing cards in the 15th century to its evolution into a powerful tool for divination and spiritual exploration, the tarot has captivated the hearts and minds of seekers for centuries. In this blog post, we will unravel the enigmatic history of tarot, exploring its origins, evolution, and the profound symbolism that lies within the cards.
The Early Days: 14th to 16th Century
The earliest known tarot-like cards trace back to the late 1300s when Jacquemin Gringonneur painted cards for the entertainment of Charles VI of France. However, it wasn't until around 1450 that the Visconti-Sforza tarot deck emerged, with 74 cards still intact today, making it the most complete of the earliest known tarot decks. Initially known as carte da trifoni, or a deck of triumphs, the opulent, hand-painted cards gained popularity among wealthy families like the Visconti family of Milan. In 1530, the term "Tarocchi" was first used to refer to the cards, laying the foundation for the term "tarot."
Tarot Takes a Mystical Turn: 18th Century Onward
As the centuries passed, tarot cards transcended their origins as mere playing cards. In the 18th century, French occultists began using tarot cards for divination and spiritual exploration. They believed that the cards held hidden knowledge, waiting to be unlocked through careful study and interpretation. This marked the shift from a simple deck of cards to a mystical tool with profound symbolic meanings.
The Rider-Waite-Smith Deck: Early 20th Century
One of the most iconic and widely used tarot decks, the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, was born in the early 20th century. Artist Pamela Colman Smith and occultist Arthur Edward Waite collaborated to create a deck featuring rich symbolism and imagery. This deck remains a cornerstone in the world of tarot reading, captivating enthusiasts with its depth and symbolism.
Tarot as Divination: Seeking Guidance and Insight
Tarot readings evolved into a form of divination, offering seekers a way to tap into the spiritual realm for guidance and insight. During a traditional tarot reading, the reader shuffles the deck and lays out the cards in a specific pattern or spread. Each card represents a unique aspect of the question at hand, and the interpretation of these cards provides valuable insights into the situation.
The Complexity of Symbolism: Astrology, Numerology, and Mythology
The richness of tarot card symbolism stems from a diverse range of sources, including astrology, numerology, and mythology. Each card possesses a unique meaning and energy, contributing to the complexity of tarot readings. The interpretation of these symbols can vary depending on the reader's expertise and the specific question posed.
While the origins of tarot cards remain shrouded in mystery and legend, their role as a tool for divination and spiritual exploration persists to this day. Whether seeking guidance, unravelling the mysteries of the universe, or simply appreciating the profound symbolism within the cards, tarot continues to offer a powerful and unique window into the unknown. The journey of the tarot is one of mystery, magic, and the timeless quest for understanding the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface.
See more Tarot Cards
To learn more about Tarot Spreads - Unlock the Power of Tarot: Three Tarot Spreads to Enhance Your Card Re
To Learn how to choose a deck - The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing Tarot Cards: How to Choose the Right