The Tarot eBook © Janet Boyer 2006.
No part of this E-book—words or images—may be reproduced in any manner, including internet usage, without the express written permission of Ms. Boyer. The buyer of this E-book may print and use it for his or her own use—including teaching others—but permission must be granted to make any photocopies for student use.

Introduction

Over the centuries, the Tarot has evoked fascination, curiosity, and fear. Deemed a “wicked pack of cards” by the poet T.S. Eliot, the Tarot has emerged from carnivals and the back rooms of fortunetellers into the hands of therapists, writers, and business consultants. From clergy to homemakers, teenagers to TV, the Tarot is enjoying an upswing in popularity today.

The orthodox strains of Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) demonize divination as the “work of the devil”. This rigid stance is interesting in light of divinatory methods used by priests and “holy” men throughout the Bible, including the disciples casting lots when replacing Judas Iscariot and high priests consulting the Urim and Thummim on important issues.

However, foretelling the future is but one aspect of divination. The classic definition of divination is to foretell the future, and terms such as fortunetelling, augury, and prophecy are often interchangeable with the word divination. Many use divination to uncover insight into past events, as well as those of the present. In that case, divination does not foretell the future, but is “forth telling”. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus encountered a woman at the well and said to her “the man you are now with is not your husband.” He was not foretelling events, but rather, declaring what was true in the present.

One form of divination is Cartomancy, which is reading cards. Tarot is the most well known form of Cartomancy, but its usefulness stretches well beyond the stereotypical practice of consulting the cards to inquire about a soulmate or the future. In fact, if Tarot piques your interest, the primary aspect to consider at the beginning is not which deck to choose, but why you want to work with this tool in the first place. However, before we explore the various ways to use Tarot, let’s delve into the structure of a typical deck in the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition.

The Major Arcana

The Tarot is comprised of the Major and Minor Arcana, totaling 78 cards. The Major Arcana (which means “Greater Mysteries”) consists of 22 cards and usually addresses the big picture events of our lives. The Emperor, Wheel of Fortune, Chariot—these are archetypal forces largely out of our control and represent various life cycles. For example, children must face the Hierophant when introduced to formal education, religion, and cultural heritage—as well as “fitting in”. However, we encounter these forces at other times in life, too. The “Fool’s journey” through the Majors is not straightforward or linear, but a circuitous route based on our unique life path. In modern decks, liberties are taken with many Major Arcana designations. For example, in The Oracle Tarot, Death is re-named Change and The Hierophant is re-named Tradition. The Majors signify the influence of a major life event.
Here is the most common order for the Major Arcana:
0 - The Fool
1 - The Magician
2 - The High Priestess
3 - The Empress
4 - The Emperor
5 - The Hierophant
6 - The Lovers
7 - The Chariot
8 - Strength
9 - The Hermit
10 - Wheel of Fortune
11 - Justice
12 - The Hanged Man
13 - Death
14 - Temperance
15 - The Devil
16 - The Tower
17 - The Star
18 - The Moon
19 - The Sun
20 - Judgment
21 - The World

In earlier decks, Trump 8 was Justice and Trump 11 was Strength. These cards were switched around in order to fit the Majors into an Astrological model so that Strength corresponded to Leo (the lion) and Justice corresponded to Libra (the scales).

The Minor Arcana

The Minor Arcana (“Lesser Mysteries) usually address day-to-day events that we have some measure of control over. Like a deck of playing cards, the Minors span from Ace to 10 and are comprised of four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. In the Rider-WaiteSmith deck (and RWS “clones”), the Minors are “illustrated”. This means that instead of illustrating bare-bone pips—a picture of 3 actual cups or 10 wands, for example—the image instead captures people, animals, and other characters engaged in a variety of situations.
The Four Suits
The Cups - Also known as Chalices or Hearts, this suit is usually associated with emotions, relationships, feelings, reactions, fantasies, and the psychic realm, among other things. Cups are associated with the element of Water and the astrological signs of Cancer, Pisces, and Scorpio.

The Wands - Also known as Rods, Batons, Staves or Clubs, this suit is usually associated with desires, career, energy, movement, enthusiasm, and passion. This is an energetic suit characterized by how you get into things…and how you get out. Some feel that Wands is associated with Air and others with Fire. Most authors I have come across, and my own intuition, associate Wands with Fire. The astrological correlations are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.

The Swords - Also known as Spades, this suit is usually associated with the realm of the intellect, including reason, thoughts, beliefs, logic, challenges, worry, decision-making, communication, strategies, and so on. Some individuals interpret Swords as conflict. Swords are typically associated with the element Air. The astrological correlation for this suit is Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.

The Pentacles - Also known as Coins, Disks, Stones, or Crystals, this suit is usually associated with the five senses and the material world, including the body, health, practical matters, and money. This suit is associated with the element Earth. The astrological correlations are Taurus, Capricorn, and Virgo.
The Court Cards
The sixteen Court Cards, usually named Page, Knight, Queen and King, often exemplify personality patterns—both in us and in others. In fact, if we disown parts of ourselves—traits both positive and negative—we tend to project them onto others. The Court Cards display those traits quite clearly. These cards can also describe stages of events, such as risking (Pages) and maintaining (Queens). Some decks re-arrange this structure, as well, following a Knight, Queen, Prince, and Princess designation or even Mother, Father, Daughter, Son. Many of these designations depend upon the theme of the deck. There are even decks without Court cards, such as The Oracle Tarot by Lucy Cavendish.
Like the four suits of the Minor Arcana, the Court cards themselves are also assigned elements:
Pages – Earth Knight – Fire Queen – Water King – Air

So the Page of Wands would be considered Earth of Fire, the King of Wands would be Air of Fire, the Knight of Cups would be Fire of Water, the Queen of Pentacles would be Water of Earth, the Page of Pentacles would be Earth of Earth and so on.

Ways to use the Tarot

The striking images of the Tarot often appear mysterious, beckoning us to draw closer and learn of their secrets. While some choose to use the Tarot for predictive purposes, the metaphorical symbols can do so much more. In fact, most who work with Tarot do not use the cards for prediction at all! Here are but a few ways to enjoy and utilize the Tarot:

• Problem Solving and Self Development – Tarot cards provide an excellent springboard for identifying, analyzing, and working through challenging situations. Draw a card and have an imaginary conversation with it. What advice might it give you if it could “speak”? Alternatively, look through a deck and pick a card that represents how you’re feeling now; then, pick another representing how you’d like to feel. How might you get from here to there? You can also use Tarot for brainstorming and planning. (Mark McElroy has written several excellent books using the cards for this purpose; What’s in the Cards for You? is my favorite.) Tarot allows us to “freeze” different aspects of a situation, promoting objectivity, awareness, clarity, and empowered choice.

• Creativity – Are you a writer, artist, or musician? The cards can inspire ideas, plots, and direction. For example, draw a card and write a song or create a painting based on how the image makes you feel. Or, write a short story based on three cards drawn at random: Card 1 represents one person, Card 2 represents another person, and Card 3 represents the nature of the conflict or situation involving them both. Alternatively, draw several cards and tell a story based on what you see.

• Dream Interpretation – The rich symbolism of the Tarot can provide helpful clues to the meaning of dreams. You could choose a Tarot card for each of the elements contained within a dream, or draw several that specifically address the theme and its relevant message.

• Meditation and Visualization – If your spiritual path uses rituals or altars, you can use one or more Tarot cards as a sacred tool for meditation, contemplation, and intention. For example, if you’re feeling vulnerable, you could meditate on the Strength card. If you feel pulled in a hundred directions and long for time alone, you could cultivate an atmosphere of spiritual retreat and social withdrawal by meditating on the Hermit.

• Education and Intellectual Stimulation – The Tarot can be as simple or as complex as you’d like it to be, depending on your preferences. When reading the cards you can simply “say what you see” as author Wilma Carroll encourages, or you can explore esoteric Tarot symbolism, numerology, astrology, Qabalah, western magickal traditions (such as the Order of the Golden Dawn) and much more. The internet is an amazing resource for learning about Tarot, with hundreds of websites, online groups, and bookstores dedicated to the subject. The Tarot School in NYC (www.TarotSchool.com) provides excellent in-person classes as well as tele-classes, audio courses on CD, and a correspondence program.

• Divination and Psychic Development – Asking questions of the Tarot and using spreads (card layouts) can help you tap into the collective unconscious, develop symbolic sight, and stretch your intuitive potential. Testing the Tarot—and yourself—increases trust in innate abilities, creates personal meaning, and demonstrates the power of co-creating reality.

Determining the ways you’d like to work with the Tarot can help you decide on which deck or decks to work with. Tarot decks span hundreds of themes—from baseball to dragons, saints to fairies, cats to Halloween. Selecting a deck can be an overwhelming task in light of such a vast array! The internet is a great portal for discovering and purchasing decks, especially when you get to see many of the cards. The Encyclopedia of Tarot Volume IV by Stuart Kaplan features artwork from 850 tarot decks and reproductions of more than 11,000 different tarot cards from the 20th century. Because most decks cost around $20 to $30, a book such as this one can help you save money in the end by learning more about various decks.

Choosing a Deck

So which deck should you ultimately choose? Even some long-time Tarotists are still on the quest for the “perfect deck”! Purpose, attractiveness, and theme are the three main considerations when looking for a deck. For example, if your primary purpose for using the Tarot were storytelling or creative writing, you would want a deck with illustrated Minors. It’s much easier to tell a story about an individual standing on one foot and holding (juggling?) two pentacles than trying to glean meaning from an image of merely two pentacles.

Attractiveness is also an important consideration. If you like the theme of a deck but abhor the illustrations or coloring, then working with it won’t be enjoyable. Choose a deck that appeals to your sense of touch (including size). Some New Age and occult bookstores display sample cards for you to examine. If you’re ordering online— precluding the ability to touch the deck—join a Yahoo Group or Discussion Board dedicated to the Tarot and ask questions. In addition, read reviews of decks (such as those on my site) and scrutinize the images. How do the pictures make you feel? Do you like the artistic style? Can you picture yourself interacting quite easily with the characters—or easily identify with the depicted situations?

Theme is another element to consider. If you don’t resonate with the Christian symbolism of a RWS deck, then you may prefer Tarot decks with pagan imagery, such as those with Wiccan or Druidic themes. If you practice feminine spirituality, you may choose a deck reflecting goddess themes. Whatever your passions and interests, allow them to guide you as you choose an appropriate deck.

One of the fascinating elements about Tarot is there is no “wrong” way to read the cards. Each person brings his/her unique life experience and frame of reference to the cards. For example, although most individuals interpret the 3 of swords as heartache or grief, others may see the three swords piercing the bright red heart as symbolic of “the three musketeers”—three friends joined by the bonds of love, enduring the challenges and heartaches of life together. Whether you use the cards for journaling, self-discovery, creativity, brain storming, or spiritual practice, the Tarot provides a vast array of symbols and metaphors for inspiration, clarity, and insight.

Cartomancy – Divination Using Cards

Cartomancy is divination using a deck of cards for seeking guidance about the past, present, or future. Playing cards were once used as a form of divination, and some use these cards in modern times as well. The first report of using cards for divination was in Europe in the 1300’s by the gypsies.

There are literally hundreds of oracle decks on the market, including Tarot cards. Themes range from angels, gemstones, faeries, goddesses, mythology, sacred geometry, Native American, baseball, cats, and more.

There are many ways to learn card meanings. Some people go "by the book", memorizing correlations. Others read more intuitively, getting a feel for card images, symbols, and concepts and drawing from those impressions.

Both Oracle cards and the Tarot can give you important clues in a reading. In fact, you can weave your impressions together to tell a story—allowing intuitive flow to connect the cards to the situation addressed by a reading.
Here are some things to look for and consider when reading cards:
People - Are there any people on the card? What does their presence—or absence—indicate to you? What direction are they facing? What about facial expression? Body language? How are they dressed? Is their something unexpected or unusual about their appearance? Do they remind you of anyone you know?

Numerology - Numbers have meanings, and depending on the numerological tradition you're using, you can interpret cards in light of the numbers. For example, 1 usually indicates beginnings, 2 indicates decisions, 3 indicates reproduction, and so on.
Words - When a deck creator names a card, they do so for a reason. What does the name speak to you? How would you interpret a card called The Devil? What if it were re-named Bondage? Are there any key words or phrases on the card? How do they relate to the images? Do they remind you of situations from your life or parts of a conversation you've heard?

Color - What are the predominant colors of the Minor Suits in your deck? What color clothing are the people of the Majors and Court cards wearing? What about the colors of symbols, objects, or landscape? There are various systems of color symbolism and these add yet another layer to interpreting cards. For example, purple can represent royalty or divinity. Red often indicates fiery passion or anger. Green often indicates abundance and healing.

Objects and Animals – Notice any objects on the card. Are jars or cups upright or overturned? Are swords piercing a heart? What kind of objects are the people holding or using? Are there blindfolds, paths, crowns, bodies of water, pillars, ritual tools, flowers, celestial objects, and so on? Do they remind you of a song, a story, or an experience? What animals are on the card? What do those animals speak to you? How are these animals used in literature and mythology? How are individuals on the card interacting with the animals?

Symbols – Esoteric symbolism can often be found in oracle decks, especially the Tarot. Do you notice any unusual shapes, glyphs or emblems? What about crests or seals? You can research various astrological, Qabalistic, elemental, and other esoteric symbolism to add depth to your card interpretations.
Clearing a Deck
When you do frequent Tarot or oracle card readings, it' s often a good idea to cleanse your cards. This process is known as "clearing the deck".

Any form of divination involves energy, and using cards is no different. Energetic "gunk", if you will, accumulates on the cards. This can be a result of allowing people to handle your deck, doing multiple readings in a row, having a negative state of mind when performing a reading (something that is not recommended!), or experiencing negative feedback from a the seeker (the person receiving the reading).

You may find that the cards become sticky, or that shuffling becomes difficult. Sometimes, you may just feel a flat feeling after awhile...like your deck needs a breath of fresh air. This is a good indicator that a deck cleanse is in order.

Some individuals clear the deck after each reading. Others do it only periodically as a part of deck maintenance. Whenever you choose to clear your deck, here are some ways to do so:

Smudging - Smudging is when you burn certain herbs to create a "smoke bath" to cleanse the energy around a person, room, or object. There are various herbs you can use for smudging such as sweet grass or cedar, but the most common herb used for cleansing is Sage. Using a smudge stick, braid, or bundle of herbs, waft the smoke around your deck or the place you conduct your readings.

Crystals - After a reading, place a crystal of your choice on top of the deck in between readings. If you keep your deck in a silk cloth, bag, or box, you can store a crystal with your deck. I've been using this method recently, especially since I've been doing many phone readings. I find that I'm most drawn to using rough clear quartz and rough amethyst.

Re-ordering the Cards - Some readers choose to re-order the deck after every reading. That is, putting all the cards upright and in order. For traditional Tarot, that would be putting the Majors and Minors in order. For an oracle deck, it would depend on how it was ordered by the deck creator, e.g. number, suit, subject, etc.

Make Some Noise - Clapping your hands or jangling some bells above your deck is a good way to displace stagnant energy and introduce some chi (life force energy).

Aromatherapy - Incense, candles, and essential oils can be used to clear your deck. Just pass your deck through the smoke or aroma, or have the cards lying out while you use aromatherapy.

White Light - Visualizing your deck surrounded by white light is another effective way to cleanse cards. You may also visualize white light emanating from your hands, and pass your hands over the cards.

Cross/Uncross - Wald and Ruth Ann Amberstone have a neat method for clearing a deck: Cross your wrists over your deck, forming an X. Quickly uncross your wrists, as if breaking loose, to dispel negative or stagnant energy.
Use Another Deck - Sometimes, imbuing a reading with fresh energy is a simple as using a different deck.
Knuckle Rap – Hold the deck of cards in your non-dominant hand and rap the middle knuckle of your dominant hand on the top of the deck. Imagine white light filtering through the deck, clearing it. Hold the deck to your chest and imagine golden light surrounding your cards, say a prayer or mantra, and re-dedicate your cards for the highest good of all you read for, including yourself.

Whether you read for yourself, clients, or friends and family, clearing the deck is a great way to dispel negative, stagnant energy. This ritual creates a sacred space around your divination deck--inviting peaceful energy and promoting
psychic clarity.

Numerology

Numerology has been an integral part of ancient mystical and religious tradition. Pythagoras, the Greek philosopher who is often considered the father of numerology, felt that numbers were the ultimate elements of the Universe. Up until the Renaissance, architects used mystical numbers to construct churches, believing that certain numerical systems enhanced an experience with God.

Numbers are found everywhere: house numbers, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, calendars, bank accounts, credit cards, and so on. Our birthdates and birth times have numbers, too, and these numbers are believed to hold specific vibrational frequencies with specific meanings. Even years, months, and days have specific vibrations that influence our lives.

Numerology as a form of Divination can yield great insight into life questions about destiny, relationships, hidden traits and talents, and more. Here are some of the possible meanings for numbers One through Ten:
One
Will
Individuality Beginnings Unity
Potential
Perfection Spark
Idea
Birth
Seeds
Two
Peace
Cooperation Duality
Choices
Decisions
Partnership
Division
Balance
Complementary energies Pledge or commitment Affirming
Three
Creativity
Self Expression Expansion
Growth
Creating
Planning
Four
Work
Discipline
Foundation
Stability
Consolidation
Safety
Rest
Manifesting
Holding on to status quo Stagnation
Five
Freedom Change
Adjusting Molding
Adapting Change
Challenge Communication
Six
Service
Responsibility
Harmony
Success
Generosity
Symmetry
Balanced flow of energy Cycling
Steady motion
Calm after the storm Habitual behavior
Predictable patterns Contentment
Satisfaction
Rewards
Creativity
Seven
Wisdom
Detachment
Challenges
Rites of passage Ingenuity
Flexibility
Imagining
Variety
Experimentation Indecision
Too many options Upheaval
Eight
Power
Authority Maturity
Ability
Skill
Self-directed movement Resilience
Peak of ability
Organizing
Prioritizing
Order
Structure
Nine
Compassion
Altruism
Abundance
Accumulation
Living in the Now
Completion
Endings
Preparing for next cycle Integrating
“Calling in a performance” Flow
Ten
Worldly manifestation
Long-term cycles
Endings
Transitions
Hesitating
Culmination
Full expression of an element Resisting change
Complacency
Overkill

Some Tarot readers use numerology to gain additional insights into cards and enabling individuals to read non-illustrated pips. For example, let’s say the deck you’re using depicts seven literal cups for the 7 of Cups card. Now, we know that Cups signifies relationships, fantasies, dreaming, and the psychic realm. The number 7 can also mean fantasies and imagination, but can also mean experimentation, upheaval, indecision, variety, and so on. Combining the suit meaning with the number meaning, how would you interpret the 7 of Cups? Well, it would depend on the question being asked but this card could mean the need to reflect upon choices, self-delusion, illusionary success, overwhelming options, or being a “space case”.

Another example would be the 10 of Wands. One of the numerical attributes of the number ten is “overkill”. Wands are usually associated with work, energy, movement and so on. Combine those meanings and you get workaholism, being burdened by work issues, or even burnout. Use intuition and the question at hand to determine which combination feels right when using numerology in your interpretation.

Tarot Collages

Whether you’d like to familiarize with a particular Tarot card or perhaps gain fresh, intuitive associations, making a Tarot Collage is a fun, creative activity.

First, choose which card or cards you’d like to explore. You may choose your favorite card or—if you’re studying the Tarot one card at a time—choose whichever card you want to explore next. You could also choose to explore a particular theme or grouping. For example, you could do a collage that represents all the Aces, all of the Queens, all of the Tens, and so on. Alternatively, you could create a collage based on elements—one representing Fire, Water, Earth, or Air. You could even create a collage based on a reading you’ve done for yourself or others.

Materials you’ll need:
• Poster board, cardboard, or canvas
• Scissors or Exacto-Knife
• Unused magazines, greeting cards, store catalogues, flyers, photos, or junk mail
• Glue or other adhesive
Optional Extras:
• Markers, crayons, paints
• Stencils
• Scrapbook materials
• Glitter, pipe cleaners, feathers, googly eyes, faux gems, fabric scraps, or other craft items

After deciding which card/s or theme you’d like to explore, cut out words, phrases, and pictures that remind you of the card/s or theme. Paste them onto poster board any way you’d like. If you choose to embellish your collage, add any desired elements like faux gems, fabric scraps, or other extras.

You can use your collage for meditation or for decorating your personal space. Journaling about your choices can also open up new avenues of thought. For example, why did you choose the pictures you did? The phrases? How you arranged the collage? Does your collage remind you of a particular person or life experience? How does this person or experience connect to the card? How does the association you’re making with the collage resemble or differ from what others have said about a particular card? If you’ve made a collage based on a reading, what additional insights does your collage bring to your awareness?

How Does Divination Work?

Humans have practiced divination for thousands of years. The word divination shares the same root as the word divine, so most people have assumed that the information received through divination comes from a divine source—God, Goddess, Great Spirit, etc. Oracles, prophets, shamans, and religious leaders who were trained to discern and interpret omens, symbols, and messages often used divination for social and tribal queries. In many respects, the diviner served as a bridge between the Divine and everyday folks.

For some civilizations, though, divination was a normal part of living for all people. In the early Christian tradition, some people were said to have the “gift of prophecy” and delivered messages from God. However, adherents of this religion believed there were two sources for “supernatural” information: God and the devil. Therefore, it was possible for some individuals to manifest “counterfeit” psychic gifts that were demonic in nature. In fact, fortunetelling was often forbidden in the Judeo-Christian belief system, despite the fact that there are numerous accounts of divination performed by “heroes of the faith”.

There are several theories about how divination works, but the foundation for all of the following theories is a belief in an ordered Universe—and that there is no such thing as accidents or coincidences:

• Divine Source – This is rather straightforward: it is belief that information received through divination comes straight from a Divine Source…a spiritual Intelligence. Those who believe in an evil counterpart to the Divine, such as a devil or demons, believe that information can come from that source, as well.

• Synchronicity – Swiss psychiatrist and psychologist Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961) coined the term synchronicity to explain that coinciding events have meaning. A student of symbol and myth, as well as the divination method of Tarot, Jung believed that nothing was random, and everything happens for a reason. When consulting a divinatory tool, the individual will receive a message pertinent to his or her concerns and questions.

• Collective Unconscious – Jung also believed in a collective unconscious, which is a vast database where information about every person, object, and event is stored. This collective unconscious could be accessed through archetypal recognition, hypnosis, dreaming, and divination.

• Higher Self – Some believe that the subconscious exerts an energetic force that affects divination tools. Our “Higher Self” or “spirit” already knows the information that is sought, as well as what’s best for us. By using divination, we tap into this “Higher Self”, bypassing the conscious, rational mind.

• Macrocosm/Microcosm – Ancient civilizations believed that everything was connected through patterns of energy and universal laws. Divination was seen as a microcosm that reflected larger patterns of energy—the macrocosm. Modern man often assumed that these beliefs and practices were mere primitive superstitions. However, with the advent of scientific discoveries such as the theory of relativity, chaos theory, quantum physics, etc. many are realizing that science is now confirming these ancient metaphysical beliefs and practices.

• Intuition – Believed to be a part of the brain, intuition is a “6th sense” whereby information is directly perceived by means outside of the five senses. That is, a “knowing” not based on rational understanding or the “facts”. Many believe that human intuition is in a state of evolution, especially as civilizations become more complex. We no longer need the daily “flight or fight” survival instinct that our ancestors once did, but rather, a “higher” form of knowing and understanding outside the realm of ego. In metaphysics, there is an esoteric belief in a “readiness wave”. The readiness wave is a signal emitted from the frontal cortex of the brain into the surrounding area of the thinker. These signals relate to thought and experience, before the actual occurrence of those thoughts or experiences.

• Psychic Gifts – Whether manifested through the human body (DNA/natural ability) or as a “supernatural” gift (bestowed by a divine source), some believe that certain individuals are born psychic and others are not.

• Akashic Record – With divination methods such as clairvoyance, dream interpretation, and channeling, there is a belief in a cosmic library where every conversation and event on the earth plane is recorded in “life books”. When an individual is attuned to the Holy Spirit, universal consciousness, and the “other side”, he or she is able to read these books, known as the Akashic Record. Information from these books travel on light waves and are received by the diviner. Some believe that the Akashic Record is the same thing as Jung’s collective unconscious.

How is it that a prophecy often comes to pass? I believe that, in most cases, the diviner is reading the present energy surrounding a situation or person. Because most people are resistant to change, living their lives in the well-worn grooves of familiarity and habit, that which is discerned in the present comes to pass in the future. It’s easier to determine outcomes than one might think, because examining an individual’s past and present if often a good determinant of where they’re headed simply because of inertia. If the driver of a car never turns the steering wheel, she’ll continue along the same trajectory that she’s been traveling. Simply put, if you want to know where someone is heading, look at where he/she has been.

However, those who decide to exercise their free will with conscious choice can change the direction of their life. Your past does not equal your future, even if that’s the case for most people. Thus, messages received through divination are not set in stone but, rather, are fluid in nature.

It is my belief that everyone can access their intuitive abilities, and use divination to understand their past, present, and future. When we practice divination with the intent of seeking guidance for self-growth and understanding, we exercise our 6th chakra, also known as the brow chakra or third eye.

A term that is often associated with divination is “reading”. A diviner gives an intuitive or psychic reading to the querent (the one seeking advice or insight). Thus, a diviner is often called a “reader”. However, seeking answers for oneself is also called “reading”, since information is being received and interpreted.

The classic definition of divination is to foretell the future. Fortune telling, augury, and prophecy are often used interchangeably with the word divination. However, foretelling the future is but one aspect of divination. Many use divination to uncover past events, as well as those of the present. In that case, divination is not used to foretell the future, but rather, to gain insight into the past or present. This is known as forth telling. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus encountered a woman at the well and said to her “the man you are now with is not your husband.” He was not foretelling events, but rather, declaring what was true in the present.
For more information on Divination, see my eBook Divination: History, Methods, and Uses.
Using Tarot for Creative Writing

I have found Tarot and other oracle decks to be a wonderful source for inspiration for creative writing. There are literally hundreds of decks available: some decks are digital, available only online. Because of the rich diversity of themes, symbolism, and artistry, tarot and oracle cards are an exciting way to spark the imagination!

The Tarot and other oracular decks can be used to originate themes in your creative writing, as well as character development or even dialogue. For example, I'm currently writing a novel, and my main character is psychic. I had her perform an archetype reading for someone, but rather than invent the details, I did an actual three card Past/Present/Future spread from the Archetypes Storytelling Cards. I used the exact cards and spread in my novel, and interpreted them as I wrote. It worked beautifully! From just a quick 3-card spread, I created a scene with interesting dialogue, providing insight into the main character and those around her, as well as moving the story along in the direction I wanted it to go.
Of course, there are many other ways to use tarot and oracles for writing. Let's say you're in the beginning stages of creating a short story, play, or novel. What do your characters look like? What are their names? Their personality? You can receive inspiration to answer these questions and more using oracles. For example, I was unsure of how a scene in my novel needed to unfold. The scene involved three other characters, so I drew a few cards for insight.

Using the Archetypes Storytelling Cards again, I drew The Box. I immediately had the inspiration to name that character Pandora (Pandora's Box). For another character, I drew The Fete and received the inspiration that the atmosphere was to be lighthearted...a small "party" of sorts, complete with food.

Oracles can also be used to determine conflict, whether man versus man, man versus nature, or man versus himself. Conflict is important in a story because it carries the plot forward, provides tension that begs for resolution, and generates interest for a reader. You may choose the cards at random, or consciously select them based on what appeals to you; either way, the cards can provide a wealth of information. For example, draw a card to represent the nature of the conflict, and then draw cards for the characters, showing how they are involved with, or react to, the conflict at hand. Whether you choose to interpret the cards according to the deck author' suggestion, tradition, keywords, or according to inspiration received from the image itself is entirely up to you!
Creative Questions for Fiction Writing Here are some examples of how questions can be asked and answered through using Tarot and oracle cards:
1. Who is this character? Does the person on the card remind you of someone? Will your character be similar to the one on the card...or the polar opposite?

For example, let' s say you draw The Star from the Quest Tarot. Is this person interested in astronomy or astrology? Is this person a woman? Does she have Aquarian tendencies? Is the character hopeful and optimistic...or quite the opposite--bitter and cynical? Is this character a "super star"…or longs for fame? Is her first name Star? Or Hope? Stretching associations based on image: does she like to wear silver? Does she own any trophies from competitions? Is she a servant-type, and enjoys "pouring out" to others? Is she overtaxed or over-worked because she's not re-filling her emotional and spiritual reserves?
2. Does an object, person, or action depicted on the card give you an idea for the character's occupation or hobbies?
What if you were to draw a card at random from the Oracle Tarot and it happens to be Bondage (The Devil in traditional Tarot)? Could this person enjoy rock-climbing as a hobby? Or maybe this individual' profession is a rock-climbing instructor? Does this character have an interest in the faerie world? You could even make wilder/broader speculations: is she a window washer? Is she a detective, extricating people out of "bondage" by solving mysteries? What about a spiritual liberator? Was this person kidnapped as a child--"bound and gagged"? The keyword phrase on this card is Issues of control, freedom. Is the character a control freak? A freedom fighter on an alien colony? Does he have a need to "push against" his employer and fellow employees? Is he trying to scale the corporate ladder but is in bondage to an addiction?

3. What is occurring on the card? Tell yourself a story about what' happening. Can you see any of your characters doing that...literally or figuratively?

Let' s consider the 6 of Swords card from Kat Black's gorgeous Golden Tarot deck. A man is rowing a boat, and a woman is holding a baby protectively. There are six swords stuck on the prow, and another boat holding two men is off in the distance. One of those men is looking towards the boat holding the man, woman, and child. Are they going on a trip? Is the man her husband? Or a lover? The woman is shrouded in blue; could she have been a nun impregnated by this man...or a priest? Was there a famine in the land and are they heading to another place? (I'm reminded of the story form the Old Testament regarding Naomi and Ruth.) Is this couple hopeful? In despair? Who are those other men? Is the woman a fugitive on the run? Was the child kidnapped? Swords represent decisions and the intellect: are they facing an important decision? (Another Old Testament story comes to mind: Solomon the Judge is faced with two women who both claim to be the mother of a child. He threatens to cut the baby in half in order to determine the true maternity of the child, wisely knowing that the child's mother would rather the pretender have the baby than risk its death.) Can you translate these speculations to a character or characters?

As you can see from these examples, Tarot and oracle cards can do a fine job lifting you out of a creative slump, or providing a fresh approach to a story, character, or plot line.

Spreads

When reading Tarot, the layout of the cards is called a spread. In a spread, each position has a pre-determined meaning—either created by you or another. The nature of the pre-determined meaning is important because it modifies the interpretation of the card.

A 3-card layout is a simple spread that can yield a lot of information in the hands of an experienced reader. Some examples of 3 card spreads include:

• Past, Present, Future
• You, Significant Other, Together (The Relationship)
• Mind, Body, Emotions
• Pro, Con, Advice
• Sun, Moon, Ascendant
The Zodiac Spread is an excellent comprehensive spread based on the 12 Houses of the Zodiac:
1 Personality/persona
2 Possessions and wealth
3 Family
4 Home
5 Self-expression and communication
6 Health, environment, job
7 Love and marriage
8 Inheritance, sex, death
9 Education, spirituality, travel
10 Career and social status
11 Pleasure, friendships
12 Psychic feelings, the unknown, the unconscious, fears
13 The querent (the one asking the question)

When I began to read Tarot, it was a natural process to invent my own spreads. Here are some of my original spreads that you may use for yourself or when reading for another.
Inner Child Spread
Card 1: Area of wounding/what was lost Card 2: Area of wonderment/joy Card 3: Healing
Tree Spread
Card 1: The Root
The root of the problem/that which is hidden or unknown. Card 2: The Trunk
Symptoms - How the root is affecting you.
Card 3: The Branches
How your relationships and/or health are being affected. Card 4: The Leaves
Healing focus and meditation
Amazing Grace Spread
Card 1: What was lost
Card 2: What was found
Card 3: How you (or the querent) are blind Card 4: How you (or the querent) see
Synergy Relationship Spread
Card 1: Represents the other person and where they' re at in life presently
Card 2: Represents you (or the querent) and where you are at right now
Card 3: The core of the issue/problem
Card 4: What you need to know about the situation
Card 5: Healing and resolution
Past Life Spread
Card 1: What did my guides and I agree upon to learn in this lifetime? Cards 2 and 3: What issues from my most recent past life sabotages me in the present?
Cards 4 and 5: What strengths from my most recent past life help me in the present?
Card 6: What needs healed from my most recent past life? Card 7: How does my most recent past life affect my health? Card 8: How does my most recent past life affect my relationships? Card 9: How does my most recent past life affect my finances? Card 10: Guidance and insight for the present
Life Purpose Spread
Card 1: What is my current life purpose?
Card 2: What will help me accomplish my life purpose? Card 3: What distracts/hinders me from my life purpose? Card 4: What drives me?
Card 5: What new belief/drive will serve my highest good?
Life Lesson Spread
Card 1: What is the current lesson I' m learning?
Card 2: What distracts/hinders me from mastering this lesson? Card 3: What will help me master this lesson?
Card 4: Who or what is a teaching agent for this particular lesson? Card 5: What perspective do I need to discard in relation to this lesson?
Card 6: What new perspective can I apply to this lesson?
New Year Spread – Lessons from Earth School
Card 1: What physical lesson was presented to me this past year? Card 2: What lesson about thoughts and attitudes was presented to me this past year?
Card 3: What lesson about relationships was presented to me this past year?
Card 4: How did I fare in learning about the physical realm? What did I learn?
Card 5: How did I fare in learning about thoughts and attitudes? What did I learn?
Card 6: How did I fare in learning about relationships? What did I learn?
Card 7: What lesson or challenge can I expect in the physical realm this upcoming year?
Card 8: What lesson or challenge can I expect in the thought/attitude realm this upcoming year?
Card 9: What lesson or challenge about relationships can I expect this upcoming year?
Card 10: What energy do I need to release from last year? Card 11: What will help me release this energy?
Card 12: What energy do I need to welcome for this upcoming year? Card 13: What will help me receive this energy with grace?

Thank you for purchasing this eBook! I wish you many blessings on your journey of self-discovery and awareness. May peace always be around you and within you.

Janet’s journey into the mystical and spiritual began as far back as age 4. Always curious, always questioning, and all too aware of energy and the spirit realm, she asked her Mom to begin taking her to church so she could learn more about God.

A former Pentecostal/Charismatic pastor and teacher, Janet’s path now finds her in the realm of the New Age, where she loves writing about practical spirituality, metaphysics, and consciousness. She
takes great joy in using her gifts to inform, encourage, and empower others on
their personal journey. Janet is a freelance writer and reviewer, and her work has
been featured in Sedona Journal of Emergence, Mystic Pop Magazine,
PlanetLightworker, Ancient American Magazine, Kajama Digest, and other
publications. She is currently the book review editor/writer for Coffee Magazine.

Astrologically, Janet is a Scorpio Sun, Aries Rising, and Aquarius Moon. Personality wise, she’s a 7w8 in the Enneagram, and an ENFP in the MyersBriggs system. In the Tarot, she identifies the most with The Hermit, but her birth and soul card is The Chariot.
While her upbringing is Christian, Janet incorporates other belief systems into her path, believing that truth can be found all over the place in this New Age.
Janet makes her home in the North Eastern U.S. with her husband, Ron, and their 7 year old son, Noah Adonijah—whom she homeschools. You may contact her at synerjay@atlanticbb.net