The history of tarot cards

Tarot cards have a long and fascinating history. They are thought to have originated in Italy in the mid-15th century, and they have been used for divination, games, and self-reflection ever since.

The earliest tarot decks were used for a game called trionfi, which was similar to modern-day bridge. The cards were divided into two suits: the trumps, which were the most powerful cards in the game, and the suits, which were similar to the suits in a standard deck of playing cards.

In the 16th century, tarot cards began to be used for divination. This was likely due to the fact that the cards were already associated with symbolism and mysticism. The first book on tarot divination was published in 1533, and tarot readings quickly became popular throughout Europe.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, tarot cards were used by occultists and alchemists. They believed that the cards contained hidden knowledge about the universe, and they used them to perform rituals and spells.

In the 19th century, tarot cards began to be used by spiritualists and mediums. They believed that the cards could be used to communicate with the dead.

Today, tarot cards are still used for divination, self-reflection, and games. They are also a popular subject of art and literature.

The Evolution of Tarot

Over the centuries, tarot cards have evolved in a number of ways. The original decks had 78 cards, but some decks have been expanded to include more cards. The meanings of the cards have also evolved over time. In the early days, the cards were often associated with Christian symbolism. However, as tarot cards became more popular in occult circles, they began to be associated with other symbols and systems of belief.

Today, there are many different tarot decks available, each with its own unique set of symbols and meanings. There are also many different ways to interpret the cards. Some people believe that the cards can predict the future, while others believe that they can simply offer guidance and insight.

The Future of Tarot

It is difficult to say what the future holds for tarot cards. However, it is clear that they continue to be a popular tool for self-reflection and divination. As long as people are interested in exploring their inner selves and the mysteries of the universe, tarot cards will likely continue to be a valuable resource.

I hope this blog post has given you a brief overview of the history of tarot. If you are interested in learning more, there are many resources available online and in libraries.