Mystical Angels

When learning how to read Tarot cards?

are you supposed to invent your own interpretation of what the cards mean based on what you notice in the picture, or does each card already have its own meaning, which you just memorize?

Public Comments

1. The images on the cards (at least on decent decks) are the meaning of the number and suit of the cards. If you know what the numbers means, and what the suits mean, and you understand the meaning of the trumps you're doing a decent job. If you're memorizing, you're doing it wrong.
2. Memorizing is definitely wrong. You should "learn" each card. Take an in depth look on each card. The main thing is with understanding of the card, let your heart/instinct guide you to read the cards. Happy learning ^^ I have been using the tarot cards for years now, and I still consider myself a beginner. Because there are a lot of new things to learn when you always use them ^^
3. Each card has its own symbolism and meanings that tie into it. As Labgrrl said - there's the number with its meaning, the suit with its meaning, and then you've got more symbolism in the image. You don't "invent your own interpretation", nor do you "just memorize". I suggest getting a notebook, and then choosing a card from your deck every day or every couple of days and place it somewhere you will see it regularly. Spend time meditating on one card at a time. Read what the book says about it. Take notes, including what feelings come to you when meditating on the card and its symbolism. Not sure what deck you have, but I would suggest working through one of the free online courses to help you develop your knowledge of tarot and your skills in working with it. http://www.learntarot.com/
4. Hello When learning I would advise that you get a good book & then another one & so on, until you have the basics. You do not 'invent' you develop a relationship of your own with them after many years of working with them & that relationship has to start with some basic groundwork. Join our forum, see below. Sadhara
5. All cards have the basic, traditional meanings that come through in the imagery. There is also the numerical & elemental associations. These are the building blocks for what each card can mean. With the knowledge of the basics, one can then get a 'feel' for what the cards represents on a deeper level. This takes time and experience with the cards. Seeing them in action in relation to eachother and then the positions they land in when using a spread. You can memorize, but when you go to do a reading and just speak of what you memorized, then you will sound something like a parrot. The reading will be dry and disjointed. You do create your 'own' meaning, but the meanings you create are built upon the traditional essence of the symbology within the cards. The Fool may be a careless person, but he can also be a fearless person. A careless person gets into trouble, as can a fearless person, BUT, the careless one will never get ahead of anything, he will just keep on struggling and wonder why. The fearless, may find trouble, but he will learn from that trouble, and going into some things without fear can bring quite the accomplishment.