How Many Tarot Cards Are In A Deck? (A guide)


If you’ve ever found yourself intrigued by the world of tarot cards, you’re not alone. Whether it’s the captivating imagery, the aura of mystique, or the fascinating insights they can provide, tarot cards have drawn people in for centuries.

A standard tarot deck comprises 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana (22) and Minor Arcana (56). The Minor Arcana is divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.

In this article, I’ll be sharing my own journey into the world of tarot, explaining the details of the tarot card deck.

How Many Tarot Cards Are In A Deck?

When I first ventured into the world of tarot, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of tarot cards in a deck. It’s easy to assume that tarot decks follow the same format as traditional playing cards, but this is far from the case.

A full tarot deck actually contains 78 cards. These cards are split into two sections: the Major Arcana, which consists of 22 cards and the Minor Arcana, which contains 56 cards.

The Major Arcana includes cards such as The Fool, The High Priestess, and The Lovers. On the other hand, the Minor Arcana is divided into four suits – Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.

Each suit has fourteen cards, including ten numbered cards and four court cards. As a beginner, it may seem a bit intimidating, but with time and practice, understanding the structure of a tarot deck becomes second nature.

How Many Cards Should A Beginner Tarot Deck Have?

When starting my tarot journey, I found that a full 78-card tarot deck can be overwhelming. I would recommend starting with a smaller, more manageable deck, such as the 22-card Major Arcana deck for beginners.

The Major Arcana cards are the heart of the tarot and provide powerful insights into the larger shifts and events in our lives. Familiarizing yourself with these cards first can provide a solid foundation before diving into the nuanced meanings of the Minor Arcana.

Once you’ve gained confidence and understanding with the Major Arcana, you can then expand your knowledge with the full 78-card deck. Remember, the goal is not to rush but to get acquainted and grow with your deck at your own pace.

How Many Cards Do You Need For A Tarot Reading?

When it comes to tarot readings, the number of cards used can vary depending on the type of spread or reading you’re conducting. In my experience, you can perform a meaningful reading with just one card, known as a “single card draw” or “card of the day,” which provides a focused insight into the current situation or the day ahead.

Three-card spreads are also quite common and can represent many things, such as past, present, future, mind, body, and spirit, depending on the question and context of the reading.

More complex readings like the Celtic Cross utilize 10 cards and offer a comprehensive view of the situation at hand, taking into account past influences, current circumstances, future possibilities, and much more.

While the number of cards in a spread can vary, it’s essential to remember that the power of a tarot reading lies not in the number of cards drawn but in the intuitive connection between the reader, the cards, and the question or situation at hand.

How Many Tarot Cards Should I Pull At Once?

When I started my tarot journey, I often asked the same question: “How many cards should I pull at once?” The answer, I discovered, really depends on the depth of insight you are seeking and your comfort level with interpreting multiple cards together.

For beginners, pulling a single card is a great way to start. A one-card reading can provide a clear, focused look at an issue, and interpreting one card is less complex than trying to find connections between several.

As you get more comfortable and seek a broader understanding, you may want to move on to a three-card spread. This could represent a timeline (past, present, future) or a situation (problem, action, outcome), among other meanings.

For even deeper and more detailed insights, you might choose to use a larger spread, such as the ten-card Celtic Cross. But remember, the key is to grow your practice at your own pace. Start with what you are comfortable with and gradually expand your practice as you gain confidence. The magic of tarot lies in your connection with the cards, not the number you pull at once.

Can I Use A Regular Pack Of Playing Cards For Tarot?

The practice of reading playing cards, or “cartomancy,” is a time-honoured tradition with roots dating back to the 14th century, even before the tarot was first documented. The four suits in a standard deck of playing cards correspond to the suits in the Minor Arcana of a tarot deck: Hearts correlate to Cups, Diamonds to Pentacles, Clubs to Wands, and Spades to Swords. The numbered cards carry similar meanings, and the royal cards are read as the court cards of the tarot.

While a regular deck of playing cards lacks the Major Arcana, it’s still possible to gain insightful readings. However, it’s worth noting that using playing cards can be a different experience due to the absence of the symbolic imagery found on tarot cards. But, in a pinch or as a stepping stone to traditional tarot, using a regular deck of playing cards can certainly be a rewarding experience.

Final Mindful Thoughts

The world of tarot is rich, layered, and deeply personal. Starting with a beginner-friendly Major Arcana deck can lead to a rewarding journey of self-discovery and insight.

Remember, the number of cards you use for reading, or the type of deck you use, is less important than your connection with the cards.

Whether you’re using the full 78-card deck or a regular pack of playing cards, what truly matters is the intention and focus you bring to each reading. Don’t be afraid to start small and grow your practice at your own pace.

Emma Jones

Hi, I am Emma and I am on a journey to awakening. I am fascinated by the universe and the power that it has to help humanity. I am excited to explore the world around me and learn as much as I can about the mysteries of life.

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