What’s the Difference Between Tarot and Oracle Cards?
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Tarot. Oracle. Two types of cards, both mysterious and slightly magical - but what actually is the difference?
If you've ever found yourself browsing tarot and oracle decks and wondered which one you're supposed to pick, you're definitely not alone.
The good news? There isn't a right or wrong choice.
Tarot and oracle cards can both be used for reflection, guidance, divination and spiritual practice. The main difference is structure. Tarot follows a traditional 78-card system, while oracle cards don't have a fixed number of cards or a universal structure. Each oracle deck has its own system, giving creators much more freedom in how the cards are designed and used.
What Is Tarot?
Tarot is a card system with a traditional structure of 78 cards.
Those 78 cards are split into two sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.
The Major Arcana contains 22 cards, including familiar cards such as The Fool, The Magician, The Lovers, Death and The World. These cards often re
present bigger themes, experiences and turning points.
The remaining 56 cards make up the Minor Arcana, which is divided into four suits.
If you've ever seen a traditional tarot deck, you'll probably recognise cards like the Ace of Cups, Three of Swords or Ten of Pentacles.
While different tarot decks can look wildly different, they generally follow this same underlying structure. So, you can learn the traditional meanings and symbolism of the cards, while also developing your own relationship with a particular deck.
What Are Oracle Cards?
Oracle cards are a little more free-form.
Unlike tarot, there isn't a fixed number of cards or a standard structure that every oracle deck has to follow.
One deck might have 30 cards. Another might have 50.
The themes can also be completely different. One oracle deck might focus on moon phases, another on animals, crystals, mythology or affirmations. Some decks have keywords or messages printed directly on the cards, while others rely more heavily on the artwork and a guidebook.
Some cards might feature a single word or phrase, while others might have detailed illustrations and longer messages.
Every oracle deck has its own personality, which is part of what makes them so fun to explore.
Is Tarot Harder to Learn Than Oracle Cards?
It can be, but it really depends on you.
Tarot has a set structure, which can actually make it easier to learn once you understand how everything fits together. There are 78 cards to get familiar with, along with the Major and Minor Arcana, four suits and all the different meanings and symbolism that come with them.
Oracle cards can feel more approachable because there isn't a set system to learn. Each deck has its own cards, themes and meanings, and many come with a guidebook to help you along the way.
That doesn't necessarily mean oracle cards are easier, though. Some oracle decks can be just as detailed and layered as tarot.
If you're completely new, don't worry too much about which one is supposed to be easier. Choose the deck you're drawn to and start there.
Can You Use Tarot and Oracle Cards Together?
Absolutely.
Many people choose to work with both tarot and oracle cards.
You might use tarot for a more detailed reading and then draw an oracle card at the end to provide an additional message or theme.
Alternatively, you may prefer to use each type of deck separately, depending on the purpose of your reading.
Tarot and oracle cards can complement one another, and the best approach is the one that suits your personal practice.
Tarot vs Oracle: The Quick Version
Still not sure which is which?
Here's the simple version:
Tarot
- Usually has 78 cards
- Follows a traditional structure
- Includes the Major and Minor Arcana
- Has four suits within the Minor Arcana
- Offers lots of established symbolism and meanings
Oracle
- Has no fixed number of cards
- Doesn't follow one universal structure
- Can explore almost any theme
- Each deck has its own system and style
- Often offers a more open-ended approach
Neither is better than the other, they're simply different tools.
So, Which Should You Choose?
If you like structure, symbolism and the idea of learning a traditional system, tarot could be a great place to start.
If you prefer something more open-ended, thematic or intuitive, you might find yourself drawn to oracle cards.
The best deck for you is the one you're excited to pick up and use.
Whether that's a traditional tarot deck or a beautifully illustrated oracle deck, there's plenty to explore.
There's no right way to find your cards.
So, which one catches your eye?
