The A.E. Waite Tarot Deck and Its Meanings
Well now, I reckon most folks’ve heard of them tarot cards, huh? Y’know, them funny little cards folks use to tell the future and all that. But there’s one deck that’s been around a long time, and it’s mighty popular—called the A.E. Waite Tarot Deck. It’s also called the Rider-Waite, or Rider-Waite-Smith. Don’t matter what you call it, it’s the same deck folks’ve been usin’ for years and years. Now, let me tell ya a little bit about it.
Where It All Started
This deck was put together by a feller named Arthur Edward Waite back in 1909. He was a British fella, and he got together with a lady named Pamela Colman Smith, who done the drawings. They worked together to make this deck, and it’s been one of the most famous decks ever since. Some folks say over 100 million of these cards have been sold all over the world! That’s a whole lotta cards, ain’t it?
The 4 Suits and What They Mean
Now, this deck’s got 78 cards, and they’re divided into four suits. Each suit stands for somethin’ different in your life. Let me explain:
- Pentacles: These cards are about money, health, and all them material things in your life. So if you draw a Pentacles card, it might be tellin’ you about your work, your money, or even how healthy you’re feelin’. They’re all about your worldly stuff.
- Swords: Swords are about your thoughts and your words. These cards can tell you about your mind, how you communicate, and sometimes how you argue with folks. It’s all in your head, so to speak.
- Cups: Now, Cups are about emotions and relationships. These cards show how you’re feelin’, what’s goin’ on in your heart, and maybe even how you connect with others. It’s all about love and feelings.
- Wands: Wands are about passion and creativity. If you pull a Wand, it might be showin’ you where your energy’s goin’. Maybe you’re feelin’ inspired, or maybe you’re workin’ on somethin’ creative. They’re about your willpower and what gets you movin’.
Why the A.E. Waite Tarot is So Popular
Now, I ain’t no expert, but I can tell ya this—this deck’s popularity is something fierce. Many other tarot decks have been made based on the Waite deck. Most tarot decks use the same numbers, same meanings, and same symbols, just like the original Rider-Waite-Smith deck. Some decks might mix things up a bit, but this one here is still the most popular of ’em all.
There’s somethin’ special about the way the pictures on the cards are done, too. You see, Pamela Colman Smith, the one who did the artwork, didn’t just draw pretty pictures. She put real meaning into them images, so when you pull a card, you can look at it and get a feel for what it’s tryin’ to tell ya. And folks say the deck’s got a lot of wisdom built right into it, that’s why so many people trust it.
What to Know When Using the Tarot Cards
But listen here—before you go shufflin’ them cards and lettin’ ’em tell your fortune, there’s somethin’ important to know. You don’t want to use these cards when you’re mad or upset, or if you’re feelin’ jealous or hateful. The energy you put into them cards is just as important as the cards themselves. If you go into it with a clear heart and mind, you might just get some good answers. But if you’re full of anger, well, it might not work so well. So remember to use these cards with care.
How to Start Usin’ the Cards
If you’re new to this tarot business, a good way to start is to use the deck for yourself first. Don’t go rushin’ off to do readings for others just yet. Get to know the cards and their meanings. You can even pull one card a day and see what it tells you. Each card’s got a message, and with practice, you’ll start to understand what they mean. It’s like learnin’ to talk to the cards, if you ask me.
One thing that folks do with these cards is called a “spread,” where you lay out a bunch of cards in a certain order. There’s all kinds of spreads folks use—some real simple and others a bit more complicated. A common one is the three-card spread, where you pull three cards to represent the past, present, and future. But there’s plenty of ways to use the cards, so you can experiment and see what works best for you.
The Final Word on the A.E. Waite Tarot Deck
So there you have it! The A.E. Waite Tarot deck is a mighty powerful tool if you want to learn more about yourself, your life, and your future. Whether you’re lookin’ for advice about money, love, or just tryin’ to get a better grip on your emotions, these cards can help guide you. Just remember—be careful with ’em. Don’t use ’em in anger or bitterness, and always make sure you’ve got a clear mind when you’re readin’. If you do that, the cards might just give you the answers you need.
Tags:[A.E. Waite Tarot, Rider-Waite Tarot, Tarot Deck, Tarot Card Meanings, Tarot Reading, Tarot Suits, Tarot Symbols, Divination, Spiritual Guidance]