Tarot has been used for divination and as a transformational tool for many centuries. A reading revolves around the belief that the cards can be used to gain insight into the current and possible future situations of the subject. Some cartomancers believe the cards help them tap into a collective unconscious or their own creative, brainstorming subconscious, while others have successfully used the Tarot to commune with the Divine. Each card has a variety of symbolic meanings that have evolved over the years. The minor arcana cards have astrological attributions that can be used as general indicators of timing in the year, based on the Octavian calendar, and the court cards may signify different people in a tarot reading, with each suit's "nature" providing hints about that person's physical and emotional characteristics. Tarot has a complex and rich symbolism with a long history.

Author's Bio: 

This definition is part of a series that covers the topic of Tarot. The Official Guide to Tarot is Kisma Stepanich-Reidling.

Kisma K. Stepanich~Reidling founded The Faery-Faith Network in 1994 as a worldwide forum for believers in the Sidhe, Faery, lovers of Ireland, and individuals interested in undergoing spiritual training in the Bhairdic College or becoming a Member in the Faery-Faith Network or Druidic Clan of Dana.

She became actively involved in women's spirituality and the goddess movement in 1983 and is the author of Sister Moon Lodge: The Power & Mystery of Menstruation; The Gaia Tradition: Celebrating the Earth in her seasons; and, An Act Of Woman Power.

Additional Resources on Tarot can be found at:

Website Directory for Tarot
Articles on Tarot
Products for Tarot
Discussion Board
Kisma Stepanich-Reidling, The Official Guide to Tarot