The Origins of Tarot: Uncovering the Ancient Beginnings
The origins of tarot cards are shrouded in mystery, and there is much debate among historians about their exact beginnings. Tarot cards are a unique form of divination and have a rich history that dates back several centuries. Here's an overview of the origins of tarot and the various theories surrounding its ancient beginnings:
Playing Cards in Medieval Europe:
Some historians believe that tarot cards evolved from playing cards in medieval Europe. Playing cards were introduced to Europe in the late 14th century, likely through trade with the Islamic world. These early playing cards had suits like swords, cups, coins, and polo sticks, which eventually transformed into the tarot's suits of swords, cups, coins (or pentacles), and wands (or batons). The tarot's structure and symbolism were gradually added to the existing deck of cards.
Italian Origin:
The most widely accepted theory is that tarot cards originated in Italy during the 15th century. The oldest surviving tarot decks, such as the Visconti-Sforza and the Tarot de Marseille, are Italian in origin. These early decks were not primarily used for divination but rather for playing a game known as "tarocchi," similar to bridge or poker.
Occult and Symbolic Origins:
In the 18th century, tarot cards gained popularity among occultists and esoteric practitioners who saw deeper symbolism in the cards. Figures like Antoine Court de Gébelin and Jean-Baptiste Alliette (known as Etteilla) contributed to the esoteric interpretation of tarot. They believed that the tarot contained ancient Egyptian and mystical knowledge.
Hermetic and Kabbalistic Influences:
Some esoteric traditions connect the tarot to Hermeticism and Kabbalah, suggesting that the cards contain hidden knowledge related to these mystical traditions. The 22 cards of the Major Arcana, in particular, are often associated with Kabbalistic principles.
Tarot as a Tool for Divination:
It wasn't until the 19th century that tarot cards gained popularity as a tool for divination and fortune-telling. Occultists like Eliphas Levi and Arthur Edward Waite, along with artist Pamela Colman Smith, contributed to the development of tarot symbolism and its use in divination. The Rider-Waite Tarot deck, created in 1909, is one of the most famous and widely used tarot decks, popular for its symbolism and imagery.
In summary, while the exact origins of tarot remain uncertain, it is clear that tarot cards have a rich and complex history that involves elements of playing cards, occultism, and symbolism. Today, the tarot is primarily known for its use in divination, with each card holding its own unique meanings and interpretations, making it a powerful tool for gaining insight and self-reflection.