The history of tarot and oracle decks is both intriguing and rich, offering insights into their unique characteristics and uses in divination. While both forms of cards serve to illuminate paths and reveal hidden truths, their origins and development reflect distinct traditions within the world of spiritual practice. Tarot decks, originating in the 15th century Europe, were initially created for playing games. We dont know for certain exactly when people began using the tarot for spiritual insight but by the late 18th century, they began to be used for spiritual insight. Interestingly, although oracle cards came later than tarot, oracle cards have historically been employed primarily for gaining insight and divination. In contrast, Tarot cards likely began their journey as tools for similar purposes centuries after their invention, becoming widely recognized for divination by the 1700s.
A traditional tarot deck comprises 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana, which represents significant life themes and spiritual lessons, and the Minor Arcana, which focuses on everyday events. In contrast, oracle decks, which emerged later, do not follow a standardized structure. They can vary widely in terms of the number of cards, themes, and artistic styles. While some oracle decks may consist of as few as 30 cards, others can include over 100. Oracle decks are often more flexible in their interpretations, allowing for personal intuition and creativity during readings.
Understanding the historical context and structural differences between these two types of decks enhances our appreciation of their unique roles in divination practices. Tarot offers a more detailed and systematic approach to readings, while oracle decks provide a broader, more open-ended method for guidance and inspiration. This diversity allows individuals to choose the deck that resonates most with their personal journey and spiritual needs.