The Origins of Tarot
Most scholars say sometime during the 1400's Tarot cards were first
produced, most likely as a card game which evolved by the 1700's into what
some believed was a mystical connection between the reader, the cards and
the symbols they held within each picture. Crossing all boundaries because
of its pictorial nature and card game background, Tarot spread around the
world and evolved even further into the many different card styles and
interpretations of the Tarot we know today. It may sound funny, but as a
Tarot reader I can feel this historical connection through the cards and
find some of the most fascinating on-target readings come from the ancient
interpretations of the cards meanings. Like older mentors, they give a
historical context to some of the important symbolism held within the Tarot
cards.
The British Museum houses writings from 1377 by a German Monk who mentions
Tarot cards in a disapproving manner. This is followed by a series of
lectures against the woes of gambling by another German Monk in 1452 who
includes Tarot cards in the mix. This is largely believed to have happened
because of the symbolism readers took away from the cards and the threat
that was perceived by such understanding.
Astrology and the divination you can attach to the planets movement in the
sky and how they correlate with our daily lives, is also attached to the
Tarot cards. Often referenced in older Tarot books as the Bible of
Astrology, the cards hold a representation of each astrology sign and solar
system planet within its deck.
Some readers refer to a time when the Tarot was called The Ancient Egyptian
Tarot in relation to a discovery of Egyptian teachings laid out upon 78
tablets; which is the number of Tarot cards in a deck. The same style
lessons, often told through story telling can be found in mythology and the
Bible as well as cultures like the Pagans. And like these examples display
in their schooling some life lessons are essential to our gaining emotional
maturity and our overall growth in character. And they are usually not very
easy encounters and why those who believe in ancient art forms such as
Tarot, turn to the cards for guidance, insight and understanding. Core
values Tarot looks to impart on the reader.
Tarot is empowering and peaceful. Offering not only predictive outcomes, but
most importantly a perspective of an overall situation - including how our
own drives and motivations are in play. Tarot strives to bring the reader
above fears, insecurities and doubts to a place of value, honor and respect
for ourselves and others. This comes from an understanding of the good and
ugly in any given situation - including ones we may have created and look to
move from. The cards lessons speak to this power throughout the deck,
especially through the control we apply to our thoughts, words and actions.
Tarot tries to make you a better individual in spirit and behavior in its
lessons. And when we experience this change, we are not only stronger but
more meditative and at peace with life - and all she can throw at us.
