What is Tarot?
History of Tarot
The history of tarot reading is long and complex, intertwining mysticism, art, and philosophy. Here's a general overview:
### Origins of Tarot:
- **15th Century (Italy)**: Tarot cards were originally created in the mid-1400s in Italy as a card game called *tarocchi*, designed for entertainment among the nobility. The decks were beautifully illustrated with images that often depicted allegorical figures, such as kings, queens, and virtues. These early decks were not used for divination but rather for playing a trick-taking game similar to modern bridge.
- **18th Century (France)**: Tarot's association with mysticism and the occult began in the late 18th century, largely thanks to the writings of Antoine Court de Gébelin, a French cleric and Freemason. He claimed that the imagery on the tarot cards contained esoteric knowledge from ancient Egypt, even though there's no historical evidence for this link. His interpretation sparked a new way of viewing tarot as a tool for divination.
### The Evolution of Tarot Reading:
- **19th Century (Europe)**: Tarot reading became more established in the 19th century, especially with the rise of the occult movement in Europe. The development of the esoteric tarot was furthered by figures like Eliphas Levi, who associated the tarot with astrology, Kabbalah, and alchemy. The idea that tarot cards held deeper spiritual and mystical meanings gained popularity.
- **20th Century (Rider-Waite and Crowley Decks)**:
- The **Rider-Waite Tarot Deck** (1909), created by A.E. Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, became one of the most widely recognized tarot decks. Waite's deck included detailed imagery and symbolism meant to facilitate intuitive readings, and it set the standard for many modern decks.
- Around the same time, the **Thoth Tarot Deck** was developed by Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris. Crowley’s deck was deeply rooted in occultism, Kabbalistic teachings, and astrology.
- **New Age Movement (1970s-present)**: Tarot reading gained widespread popularity during the 20th century's New Age movement. It became a tool for personal growth, self-reflection, and spiritual guidance, expanding beyond the realms of professional occultists and into popular culture. Tarot readings are now often used as a psychological tool, with practitioners interpreting the cards as symbols of the querent's subconscious.
### Modern Tarot:
Today, tarot reading is widely practiced in many forms—some view it as a spiritual practice, while others use it more casually for guidance or insight. Tarot continues to evolve, with new decks and interpretations emerging regularly, incorporating diverse themes and modern aesthetics. Its rich blend of art, symbolism, and intuition makes it a lasting part of both spiritual and mainstream cultures.
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