A Brief History of the Tarot
The history of Tarot is as rich and mysterious as the cards themselves. Far from appearing fully formed as a tool for divination, Tarot began as a card game in Renaissance-era Europe and gradually transformed into the introspective, spiritual practice we know today.
Tarot’s Early Beginnings
Most scholars trace the origins of Tarot to the 15th century, particularly in northern Italy. Early Tarot decks, like the Visconti-Sforza, were lavishly illustrated and commissioned by noble families. These decks were used for a trick-taking card game called tarocchi, not for mystical insights.
At this stage, the cards did not carry the layered metaphysical meanings we associate with them now. They were primarily pieces of art and entertainment, reflecting the cultural, political, and social milieu of the time.
The Emergence of Tarot as a Spiritual Tool
Tarot’s reputation as a spiritual and divinatory tool began to emerge in the 18th century. Occultists and esoteric scholars in France, notably Antoine Court de Gébelin and later Jean-Baptiste Alliette (known as Etteilla), started interpreting Tarot imagery as containing hidden wisdom and mystical teachings.
By associating Tarot’s Major Arcana with Egyptian myth, Hermetic philosophy, Kabbalah, and astrology, these pioneers imbued the deck with layers of esoteric significance. This paved the way for Tarot to move from the parlor tables of aristocrats into the hands of seekers, mystics, and spiritual practitioners.
The 19th & 20th Centuries: Birth of Iconic Decks
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw several key developments that cemented Tarot’s place in modern spiritual practice:
- Rider-Waite-Smith Deck (1909): Created by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, this deck standardized Tarot symbolism and made card meanings more accessible to the average seeker.
- Thoth Tarot (1940s): Developed by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris, this deck introduced a highly symbolic, esoteric interpretation of the Tarot.
These decks, along with countless others, allowed Tarot to spread across Europe and North America, aligning with movements in spiritualism, Theosophy, and the Western esoteric tradition.
Tarot in the Modern Era
Today, Tarot is a global phenomenon. Its use ranges from casual introspection to professional spiritual counseling. Modern seekers turn to Tarot for:
- Personal growth and self-reflection
- Insight into relationships, career, and life purpose
- Meditative and ritual practices aligned with astrology, crystals, and other esoteric tools
As Tarot’s popularity increases, diverse artists and authors continue to create decks that speak to modern sensibilities—featuring inclusive imagery, contemporary symbolism, and cultural themes.
From Game to Gateway
In just a few centuries, Tarot evolved from a high-society card game into a trusted companion for those seeking deeper understanding. This journey from playing card to spiritual guide is a testament to the human desire for meaning. By understanding Tarot’s past, you can appreciate the living tapestry of history, culture, and spirituality woven into each card.
If you’re ready to explore Tarot beyond its historical roots, visit our Card Meanings Library or learn more about Tarot for Beginners. At Zigino, new members receive 3 free credits to experience a professional Tarot reading and discover the timeless wisdom these cards hold.