People have been using tarot and oracle cards for centuries as a way to gain insights into their lives, reflect on their past, and make decisions about their future. While both tarot and oracle cards can be used for these purposes, there are some important differences between the two. So, what exactly are tarot and oracle cards? What are the differences between them? And which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out!

What are tarot cards?

Tarot cards are a type of divination tool that has been used for centuries and can be used for mental and spiritual growth, reflection, and problem-solving. Tarot decks consist of 78 cards, and each card has a series of symbols, numbers, and illustrations which, when combined, create a story that can provide insight into a person’s life. Users typically use one of several tarot card spreads to reveal their story, such as the more popular Celtic Cross spread. Tarot cards can also be used to make predictions about the future, although some readers choose not to focus on this aspect. Tarot readings can also help with self-reflection, since the cards can reveal patterns, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that can be addressed and improved. The cards can also help users gain clarity and open up pathways to new possibilities and better decision-making.

What are oracle cards?

Oracle cards are another type of divination tool, but they are different from tarot cards in a few key ways. Oracle decks typically contain fewer cards than tarot decks (anywhere from 24-48 cards per deck) and the illustrations or symbols on the cards are more abstract, allowing for a wide range of possible interpretations of each card. Oracle cards are also often focused more on providing guidance and inspiration, rather than predictions, as Tarot can offer. Oracle decks often contain more evocative statements, such as affirmations, that can help provide a sense of comfort, clarity, and reassurance to the user. Oracle cards can also provide direction and advice, but many users find that the information from an Oracle card reading tends to be more open-ended, leaving them the freedom to interpret the cards in the way that makes the most sense for them.

What are the differences between tarot and oracle cards?

The major differences between tarot and oracle cards are their number of cards (78 in tarot decks versus 24-48 in oracle decks), the illustrations/symbols (numerical and illustrative in tarot decks versus more abstract in oracle decks), and the focus (prediction and insight into a person’s life in tarot decks versus guidance, inspiration and comfort in oracle decks). It is important to note that there are some decks that contain elements of both tarot and oracle cards, such as the Foretelling Tarot, which has 75 cards with both illustrative and metaphorical archetypes.

Which one is right for you?

It really depends on what your goals are. If you are looking for more predictive insights into your life and its events, a tarot deck may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you are looking for more general guidance, inspiration and comfort, an oracle deck will likely be more appropriate. It’s also worth noting that many tarot and oracle decks have similar themes, so it may be helpful to look at deck reviews so you can find the one that resonates with you the most.

Tarot and oracle cards both offer users a way to gain insights into their lives, reflect on the past, and make decisions about their future. However, they do differ in several ways, with tarot decks providing more predictive insights and oracle decks offering more open-ended guidance and comfort. Depending on your goals, one or the other may be a better choice. It is always helpful to do some research and find a deck that resonates with you.