Tarot/Oracle
A collection page of The Witches Sage LLC
About
What is the difference between tarot and oracle cards? Both types of decks are used for insight, perspective, clarity, personal growth, inspiration, coaching, and divination. Historically the Tarot has ancient roots while Oracle Decks (angels, fairies, guides, fractal, etc.) are the new kids on the block. However, they are structured quite differently. The tarot follows it’s own set of rules laid out by original masters of days gone by, while the artists of oracle cards are free to do whatever they want. Here’s the comparison: Tarot The tarot structure is predictable. If you learn the Rider-Waite, then you will most likely be able to read any other tarot deck. Tarot always has 78 cards (except Osho Zen – he added himself) Major Arcana = 22 cards relating to major events and life pivoting events Minor Arcana = 56 cards Page, Knight, Queen, and King (Ace through 10 are known as the Pip Cards, the Page, Knight, Queen and King as the Court Cards) The Tarot is divided into suits; Wands, Swords, Cups (Chalice) and Pentacles (Coins) The modern deck of playing cards is a descendant of the Tarot; Hearts are cups Pentacles are diamonds, Wands are clubs and Swords are spades. The Joker and the Fool are nowhere and everywhere and the Court Cards that remain are the King, Queen, and Jack. Oracle Cards Oracle decks are structured independently and each follows it’s own set of rules They may have any number of cards usually between 36 and 64. Rarely have suits, although they are often numbered for guidebook reference. Some have a bit of a tarot theme while others do not. Some have the meaning of the card printed on them. Novices refer to guidebooks for information and in many cases; it is acceptable for professional readers as well. Is one better than the other? No – they are just different. It’s the deck you love that will work the best for you. Oracle Cards tend to be easier to learn, while Tarot takes a level of practice and mastery to become proficient and offers an expanse of