Tarot or Oracle: Which Game to Choose to Begin Divination?

You may be wondering what the difference is between a tarot and an oracle? Or which divination deck is best for beginners? These questions are becoming more and more common with the growing interest in these personal development tools. Tarot de Marseille , Tarot Lenormand , Oracle Belline , or even the countless oracles available, each has particularities that meet specific needs. In this article, we will compare these divination decks to help you choose the one that suits you best.

What is a Tarot and an Oracle?

Tarot and oracle cards are decks of illustrated cards used for divination, personal reflection, introspection, or decision-making. While they share similarities, they also have key differences:

• The Tarot : Composed of 78 cards, it is divided into 22 Major Arcana (representing universal archetypes) and 56 Minor Arcana (symbolizing daily events).
• Oracle : More flexible than tarot, oracles have no strict rules. The number of cards, themes, and meanings vary between decks, making them a more intuitive tool. Oracles can focus on a variety of themes, such as love, health, career, or even specific universes (animals, astrology, mythology, etc.).

Key Differences

• Structure : Tarot has a codified structure rich in symbolism, while oracles are freer.
• Flexibility : Oracles are often easier for beginners to interpret, while tarot requires more in-depth learning.

The Tarot of Marseille: The Timeless Classic

Composition of the Tarot of Marseille

The Tarot of Marseille is made up of 78 cards:

• 22 Major Arcana : These represent universal forces such as Death , Judgment , or the Fool . These cards are associated with major life events.
• 56 Minor Arcana : Divided into four suits (Cups, Swords, Wands, Coins), these cards symbolize everyday aspects: emotions, thought, action, and matter.

Interpretation of the Tarot of Marseille Cards

Reading cards takes practice. Here are the main things to consider:

• The proper meaning of the cards : Each card has a specific meaning.
• Position in the spread : Where a card is placed influences its interpretation. For example, a reversed card can indicate an obstacle or delay.
• Symbolism of colors : Each color in the Tarot of Marseille has a deep meaning:
• Red : Symbolizes energy, passion, life force, action and sometimes anger.
• Blue : Represents spirituality, intuition, wisdom, communication and inner peace.
• Yellow : Associated with joy, optimism, intelligence, light and knowledge.
• Green : Symbolizes growth, nature, harmony, hope and healing.
• Black: Represents the unconscious, mystery, transformation, endings and beginnings.
• White : Symbolizes purity, perfection, spirituality, the new moon and potential.
• Intuition : A good part of interpretation is based on your own feelings.

The Tarot of Marseille is a powerful tool, but it requires a certain investment in terms of learning and intuition.

The Lenormand Tarot: A Pragmatic and Direct Game

The Lenormand Tarot is known for its more direct approach than that of the Tarot de Marseille.

Composition of the Lenormand Tarot

The Lenormand Tarot is composed of 36 cards , making it a more accessible deck for those who want clear and precise answers. Each card is illustrated with a simple and easily recognizable symbol, such as:

• The Clover (card of luck and opportunities),
• The Serpent (betrayal, danger or deception),
• The Heart (love, romantic relationships),
• The Sun (success, happiness),
• The Cross (end of cycle, destiny).

This simplicity of the symbols facilitates a direct and concrete reading, without having to delve into complex symbolic meanings as is often the case with the Tarot of Marseille.

Interpretation of the Lenormand Tarot Cards

• Card Combinations : The Lenormand Tarot is particularly renowned for its rich card combinations. This deck favors a sequential reading, meaning that the meaning of a card depends on the other cards surrounding it in the reading. This allows for a richer interpretation and more nuanced answers.

For example :

The Knight (news or visit) followed by the Sun (success) could indicate the reception of imminent good news.

The Snake (betrayal) combined with The House (home) could warn of tension or betrayal in the family circle.

• Practical Interpretation : The Lenormand Tarot is particularly appreciated for its pragmatic and straightforward approach . Lenormand focuses on concrete events in everyday life. It is therefore ideal for those looking for quick and specific answers to specific questions.

In summary, the Lenormand Tarot is an excellent choice for those who want precise and immediate answers to practical questions. Its simplicity and pragmatism make it an ideal tool for beginners, while the richness of the card combinations will appeal to more experienced readers.

The Belline Oracle: Divination and Astrology

The Belline Oracle is a divinatory tool directly linked to astrology. Composed of 53 cards , each card is associated with a planet (Sun, Moon, Mars, etc.) and an area of life such as love, success or challenges.

Special features of the Belline Oracle

• Astrological Symbolism : Each card is linked to a planet, bringing an astrological dimension to the interpretation.
• Accuracy : Belline is renowned for its accuracy and practical advice.

In summary , the Belline Oracle is perfect for those looking for clear answers and a connection to astrology.

The Oracles: Infinite Diversity

Oracles encompass a wide variety of divinatory decks. Each deck has its own universe and themes. You'll find oracles for love, spirituality, personal development, and more.

Why Choose an Oracle?

• Flexibility : Unlike tarot, oracles are often more intuitive and simpler to interpret.
• Diversity of themes : You can choose an oracle that particularly resonates with you, whether it is an Oracle of Angels , an Oracle of Animals , or any other theme
• Learning : Each deck comes with a guide that will help you understand the meanings and interpret the cards.

In summary , oracles are accessible tools, perfect for beginners or those who prefer an intuitive approach.

Tarot or Oracle for Beginners?

The choice between tarot and oracle depends on your goals and learning style.

• Tarot : If you enjoy structured and complex systems, tarot is for you. It will allow you to explore deep questions and work on personal growth.
• Oracles : If you're looking for a more intuitive and flexible approach, an oracle is probably the best choice for you.

Which Game to Choose?

• The Tarot of Marseille is ideal if you want a rich and symbolic system.
• The Lenormand Tarot is suitable if you are looking for simple and direct answers.
• Oracles are perfect if you prefer a more intuitive introspection tool tailored to specific themes.

Tips for Getting Started in Cartomancy

• Practice regularly : The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with your playing.
• Trust your intuition : Interpreting cards is a personal experience, and your intuition is a great guide.

Cartomancy Readings

One-Card Spread: The one-card spread is ideal for quick answers. It is suitable for both tarot and oracle readings.
Three Card Spread (Past, Present, Future): This spread allows you to understand a situation as a whole.
Cross Spread: The cross spread explores a situation in depth by considering the pros, cons, and external influences.

👀 Read the article on the 12 Houses Drawing

Finally: Tarot or Oracle?

The choice between tarot and oracle depends on your expectations and your interpretation style. Tarot will allow you to delve into more symbolic and complex readings, while oracles are perfect for intuitive and direct readings.

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