Ever seen those pretty card decks in a store and wondered, oracle or tarot, aren’t they the same? They are not! Both are guidance tools but work differently, with unique histories and uses. In this blog, you will explore the difference between oracle and tarot cards so that you will know which one is right for you.
Difference Between Oracle and Tarot Cards
These both cards are totally different from each other and used in a different way. So, what’s the difference between Oracle and Tarot cards explained in simple terms. Have a look at the table:
| Aspect | Tarot Cards | Oracle Cards |
| Structure | Fixed: 78 cards (22 Major Arcana + 56 Minor Arcana) | No set number of cards or structure |
| Learning Curve | More difficult, requires study of symbols, suits, numbers, and spreads | Easier to learn, often has meanings written on the cards |
| Consistency | Same system across all tarot decks | Varies widely depending on the creator |
| Focus | Offers detailed guidance, patterns, and deeper insights | Gives flexible, direct messages for clarity and reflection |
| Purpose | Best for exploring big life themes and detailed readings | Great for quick guidance, intuition, and daily pulls |
What Are Tarot Cards?
Tarot cards were introduced many years ago as a normal playing card. They even go all the way back to the 15th century in Italy. In the beginning, they were not used for spiritual readings. However, after some time, people got to know that these cards can give us reflection, guidance, and connect us with deeper truths.
- A Tarot deck almost always has 78 cards.
- These cards are divided into two main groups:
- Major Arcana
- Minor Arcana
Major Arcana
- The Major Arcana has 22 cards, from The Fool to The World.
- They depict universal life lessons like change, challenges, hope, and new beginnings.
- When one appears in a reading, it suggests something big is about to happen.
Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana includes the remaining 56 cards. These are divided into four suits:
- Wands (linked to fire and creativity)
- Cups (linked to water and emotions)
- Swords (linked to air and the mind)
- Pentacles (linked to earth and daily life, like money or work)
In every suit, there are ten cards numbered Ace to Ten, plus four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen, and King.
These cards usually reflect everyday situations, decisions, and feelings.
Also Read: What Is Tarot Card Reading
Learning and Practice
- Tarot reading takes practice and patience.
- Each card’s meaning shifts with context and spread.
- A spread is the card layout (e.g., 3-card, Celtic Cross).
- Tarot offers insight, shadow work, and big life guidance.
- Learning can feel overwhelming at first.
What Are Oracle Cards?
Oracle cards do not have a set structure like tarot cards. An oracle deck can be anything the creator wants it to be. Some decks have 36 cards, others might have 100 or more.
Each deck is often designed with a specific theme like angels, animals, crystals, astrology, or positive affirmations. Hence, oracle cards are fun and creative.
Key Features
Here are some things you get to see in oracle decks:
- They have no fixed number of cards
- These cards usually have keywords or phrases written on them
- You notice amazing, artistic imagery, matching the deck’s theme
- Some decks have a guidebook that explains meanings, while others allow you to trust your intuition
Benefits and Uses
Oracle cards are super beginner-friendly, as the meanings are often written right on the card. You don’t need to learn hard symbols.
They’re great for:
- Daily inspiration pulls (one card a day)
- Gentle reminders and affirmations
- Building your intuition in a simple, stress-free way
For many people, oracle cards feel lighter and less intimidating than tarot.
Also Read: How to Become a Tarot Card Reader
Which Cards Are Right for You?
For Beginners: If you’re just starting, oracle cards might be the best choice. They’re easier to use, often come with simple guidance, and can help you get comfortable with card readings.
For Deep Exploration: If you’re ready to dive deeper and want a tool that has layers of symbolism and history, tarot is perfect. It takes more time, but the insights can be very rewarding.
Personal Preference: At the end of the day, it comes down to what feels right for you. Some people prefer the tradition and structure of tarot. Others love the freedom and creativity of oracle decks. Many readers actually use both together.
Examples of Themed Decks
Here are some cool comparisons between tarot and oracle decks that share similar themes:
- Astrology-Based: Oracle of the Radiant Sun vs The Star Tarot
- Crystal-Based: Crystal Medicine Oracle vs Crystal Magic Tarot
- Animal-Based: Spirit Animal Oracle vs Spiritsong Tarot
- Nature/Gaia Inspired: Earthcraft Oracle vs The Gaian Tarot
- Contemporary: Manifesting Your Greatness Oracle vs Everyday Enchantment Tarot
- Herbal: Herbal Astrology Oracle vs The Herbcrafter’s Tarot
As you can see, there’s a deck for almost every interest.
Oracle cards are flexible, gentle, and easy to start with while tarot cards are structured, deep, and perfect for those who want to study symbolism and tradition. Neither is better, it depends on what you connect with, and you might enjoy both.
Keep in mind, whether you choose a tarot deck or an oracle deck, the most important thing is how it makes you feel and the guidance it gives you. Both can become trusted companions on your journey of self-knowledge, empowerment, and divination.
Also Read: What is Reiki and How Does Energy Healing Work?
FAQs:
Q1: Are oracle cards the same as tarot?
Ans: No, tarot is a type of oracle deck, but oracle decks aren’t always tarot.
Q2: Should I start with oracle or tarot cards?
Ans: Oracle cards are easier for beginners, but you can also learn tarot cards with practice.
Q3: Are oracle cards easier than tarot cards?
Ans: Yes, oracle cards are simpler because many have the meaning written on them.
Q4: What are oracle cards used for?
Ans: They’re used to get guidance and clarity about life.
Q5: Can you use Oracle and tarot cards together?
Ans: Yes, you can mix them if you want.
