Exploring Tarot Decks: Types, Differences, and Personal Preferences

Tarot cards have been an integral part of divination practices for centuries. Each deck offers a unique blend of symbolism, imagery, and cosmic energies that cater to diverse spiritual, emotional, and intuitive needs. From the classic Rider-Waite deck to modern variations like the Deviant Moon, there’s a tarot deck for every seeker. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of tarot decks, their meanings, and share insights into the use and personal preferences of an experienced tarot reader.

Types of Tarot Decks

There are thousands of tarot decks in existence, with traditional and modern versions catering to various purposes and styles. Here are some of the most popular types of tarot decks:

Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Deck

The Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck, created in the early 1900s by Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith, is the most popular tarot deck in the world. It is often considered the standard deck due to its traditional and archetypal artwork. The cards are numbered, making it easier to learn and interpret their meanings. This deck is a great starting point for beginners and has a wide appeal due to its detailed and symbolic imagery.

Thoth Tarot Deck

The Thoth tarot deck, created in the 1930s by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris, offers a more esoteric and occult focus. It is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith deck but features a more symbolic and abstract style. The cards are not numbered, which encourages the reader to focus on the symbolism and energy of each card rather than getting distracted by numerical associations.

Tarot of Marseilles

One of the oldest surviving tarot decks, the Tarot of Marseilles, still widely used in Europe today. It features simple and stylized artwork, making it accessible to readers who prefer a more straightforward approach. The cards are also not numbered, which can enhance the focus on the symbolic meanings.

Animal Spirit Tarot Deck

The Animal Spirit tarot deck is unique in its focus on animal imagery. Each card features an animal from around the world and is associated with a particular spirit. This deck is excellent for tapping into the intuitive wisdom of the natural world, offering guidance and insights through the connection with animal spirits.

Oracle of the Moon Tarot Deck

The Oracle of the Moon tarot deck is based on the cycles of the moon and provides a path to understanding the lunar influence on our emotions and subconscious. The cards feature images of moon-related elements and can be used to gain insights into your inner world and the wisdom of the moon.

Lenormand Tarot Deck

The Lenormand tarot deck is a type of cartomancy that uses 36 cards. These cards feature images of everyday objects and scenes, making them accessible for both beginners and experienced readers. Lenormand cards offer a quick and intuitive way to get insights, making them a great tool for those who value simplicity and directness in divination.

Personal Preferences and Choices

As a seasoned tarot reader, I have a collection of 15 tarot decks that suit my different needs and preferences. My preference for The Dragon Deck is rooted in its unique focus on my spiritual and emotional side. It provides deep insights and aligns with my intuitive journey. Additionally, I use the Rider-Waite and Lenormand decks to complement each other, as they offer different strengths and perspectives on tarot readings.

Understanding the same basic meaning across tarot decks, I can confidently use the Rider-Waite deck even though I now have a good collection. However, the artwork and symbolism of different decks can vary widely. For instance, during my journey, I used the Universal Fantasy Tarot Deck for several years due to its intricate and detailed aesthetic, which captured my artistic eye. Currently, my favorite is the Deviant Moon Tarot, which resonates with both its artwork and the depth of its symbolic meanings.

Personal preferences in tarot are often driven by the artwork, the interviewer's perspective, and the intended use of the deck. Each deck has its unique strength, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and the energy you seek to connect with.