A Tale of Two Decks: Oracle versus Tarot Cards

May 21

5 Minute Read

Key Takeaways

Tarot cards are actually a type of oracle cards but tarot follows a rigid structure and system while oracle cards are not bound by any structure.
Tarot takes more time and dedication to learn but can be used to interpret more complexities while oracle cards take less time and training and offer more immediacy generally with broader themes.
Choosing between Tarot and Oracle depends on personal preference, experience, and the type of guidance sought.

If you are new to oracle cards and tarot cards, you may be wondering what the differences are between the two and which one is right for you. Interestingly, tarot cards are actually a type of oracle cards. We will take a look at the key similarities and differences between the two decks of cards and offer some tips on how to get started.

What is the key difference between tarot and oracle cards?

Tarot cards follow a rigid structure and system. Think about a traditional deck of playing cards, in which you will always find the four suits and Ace through King of each suit making up the 52-card playing deck. Tarot is similar in that it always has the same number and types of cards. Oracle cards are not bound by any set structure. There are no rules, set number of cards, or requirements.

What are tarot cards?

With its roots tracing back to 15th-century Europe, tarot has blossomed into a structured tapestry of 78 cards, each imbued with meaning. The deck's origin lies in the courts of Italy, where it was used for the game of tarocchi, eventually evolving into a divination tool in the 18th century. The tarot deck divides into two distinguished parts:

The Major Arcana:

A regal procession of 22 cards, chronicling life's grand narratives. From the innocent Fool to the worldly-wise Hermit, these cards evoke life's turning points and spiritual awakenings. They speak to major shifts, spiritual growth, and personal development, forming the backbone of Tarot’s story.

The Minor Arcana:

A quartet of suits - Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands—each containing 14 cards, reflecting the ups and downs of daily life. From heartache to triumph, these cards reveal nuanced truths about relationships, finances, intellect, and passion. The suits represent different facets of human experience: Cups embody emotions and relationships, Pentacles signify wealth and material concerns, Swords symbolize intellect and conflict, and Wands represent creativity and ambition.

What are oracle cards?

Oracle decks, by contrast, eschew rigid structure for a boundless spectrum of messages. They range from a modest 30 cards to over 100, each a standalone masterpiece. Oracle decks have a varied history, tracing their origins to different cultural practices, from ancient divination tools to 19th-century spiritualism. The thematic variety of modern oracle decks is vast: some decks channel celestial beings or animal guides, while others offer affirmations or abstract concepts, allowing readers to explore and interpret freely. This flexibility gives oracle decks an open-ended nature, making them adaptable to different styles and methods of divination.

How do you interpret tarot and oracle cards?

Brigit Eslemont of Biddy Tarot says, “I see oracle cards as the main meal and tarot cards as the ingredients. You wouldn't have more than one main meal (it's very filling), but you could certainly have lots of ingredients.” She also describes tarot cards as the pages of a story whereas oracle cards sum up the full story.

Tarot reading combines intuitive prowess with established symbolism. The cards’ meanings are steeped in tradition, demanding study and practice to master their nuances. A tarot reader discerns not only the card's imagery but its position in a spread and its relationship to its neighbors, weaving a complex narrative. This interplay between the cards can offer deep insights into a querent’s life, helping them to navigate decisions, relationships, and challenges with clarity.

In contrast, oracle readings embrace intuition and immediacy. Each card offers a unique message, standing alone or as part of a broader story. This fluid approach allows for a deeply personal connection, making oracle cards accessible to novices and experienced readers alike. The immediate nature of these messages means they can serve as quick insights or affirmations, fostering a sense of connection to one’s inner self or the broader universe. It takes less time and training to be able to interpret the meaning of oracle cards.

Find our Oracle Card Cheat Sheet here and our Tarot Card Cheat Sheet here.

How do you use tarot cards and oracle cards?

Tarot’s structure lends itself to deep dives into complex queries, exploring life's past, present, and future intricacies. The deck serves as a reflective tool, guiding individuals through life's maze of challenges and opportunities. The interplay between Major and Minor Arcana provides a comprehensive lens, helping querents understand both the broad strokes and finer details of their journey.

Oracle decks offer a different utility offering immediate insights, affirmations, and daily guidance. Their messages are swift, making them ideal for quick check-ins or meditative practices. They can also complement tarot readings, layering additional meaning. Oracle cards can serve as a daily touchstone, offering comfort and clarity in the face of uncertainty or stress, making them an useful companion for those seeking balance and insight in their lives.

The Final Shuffle: How do I Choose Between Tarot Cards and Oracle Cards?

Choosing between Tarot and Oracle depends on personal preference, experience, and the type of guidance sought.

Order vs. Freedom: Tarot’s structured approach appeals to those who crave consistency and depth. Oracle’s fluidity offers flexibility, allowing readers to explore themes relevant to them. This choice reflects the reader’s personal journey: some may seek the depth of a comprehensive tarot reading, while others prefer the immediate connection offered by oracle decks.

Time and Dedication: Mastering tarot's symbolism demands study, while oracle decks offer immediate engagement, making them suitable for those who prefer a simpler approach. This time investment reflects the reader’s goals: for some, tarot’s depth is worth the effort, while others may find oracle’s simplicity more suitable for their needs.

Purpose: For deep exploration and analysis, tarot might be the deck of choice. Oracle cards, with their immediate insights, make for a valuable daily companion. This distinction highlights how each deck can serve different needs: tarot can guide a seeker through significant life decisions, while oracle cards offer ongoing support.