Photo by Szilvia Németh (cc)
What exactly is tarot, anyway?
Tarot, fundamentally, is the use of oracle cards that display a set of archetypes and images to gain insight into a question or situation. The images and structure of a tarot deck have been distilled into a commonly accepted framework, although there are hundreds of variations. Cards should at least nominally follow this structure to be considered a tarot deck, otherwise they fall into the wider category of divination tools. Like all art, tarot images can also be used for creative inspiration.
Is there a standard deck I should buy first?
The classical tarot deck contains 78 cards: 22 Major Arcana cards, which display a succession of archetypes, and 56 Minor Arcana cards, which are numbered and organized into four suits (the modern deck of playing cards is based on the minor arcana). The vast majority of decks follow this basic arrangement while varying in theme. Some decks vary slightly from the format, but for your first deck it’s recommended to choose this system as most books are written for it, and it will make the art of tarot easier to learn.
What are the most common tarot decks?
The most commonly used deck in the United States is the Rider-Waite-Smith deck. You will find it referenced in many tarot books, and a large number of newer decks are based on its symbolism and art style. Another influential deck is the Thoth, which was designed by scholars from the Magickal Order of the Golden Dawn and has quite a few descendants as well. However, another deck may appeal to you more, so don’t limit your first tarot deck to the most popular choices.
I heard your first deck is supposed to be a gift from someone. Is that true?
Historically, the stigma against tarot reading was so great it was not possible to walk into a store and buy tarot cards; your first deck had to be a gift from another reader because there was no other way to get one. This developed into the old saw that your first deck has to be a gift. If it is, that’s wonderful! However, don’t feel that choosing your own is breaking the rules somehow.
Where can I buy a tarot deck?
Most bookstores carry a couple styles now— even the big chains have them. US Games, Amazon, and other online sellers also have a wide selection, but I strongly recommend buying your first deck in person for two reasons. First, choosing a deck is a very personal process, and you will want to give yourself time to look at and handle as many decks as possible: card size, the intensity of art, and how strongly a deck interests you is best judged with the deck in your hand. Second, once you’ve made your selection you can take it home right away, rather than waiting until the letter carrier shows up sometime next week. Save the fevered anticipation for classes, books, or your second set of cards.
Anything else to keep in mind?
The most important consideration is to choose a deck that inspires you! Be ready to spend some time evaluating the decks in the shop. If there are demo decks available, this is the best way to compare. Check out the artwork to see what styles appeal to you most; some people like the bolder traditional look, while others are interested in more subtle images. The size and shape of the cards can be important too. Try to narrow it down to three, and then go with your instinct. You may also find yourself drawn to a style you weren’t expecting: my current deck (not the one I went in to buy) practically jumped off the shelf at me, and I carried the demo around for fifteen minutes before I just gave in and bought it.
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