If you were to pick up 2 Tarot decks, the cards might look different, but they would have very similar meanings. If you picked up 2 Oracle decks, the cards would look different and have vastly different meanings.

Although Tarot has an ancient history, it doesn’t have to be rigid! Using Tarot cards can be fun and creative.

There are 22 Major Arcana cards in a deck. These cards represent the archetypes and depict major life influences and revelations. [4] X Research source There are 46 Minor Arcana cards divided into 4 suits. These cards refer to everyday matters and influences. Although the name of a deck’s suits can vary, they all represent the same thing.

For instance, a Camelot Oracle deck may have cards based on the characters from King Arthur, like Merlin, Lancelot, and Guinevere. These cards could represent specific archetypes like the hero or maiden, but they might also convey overall feelings of hope or grace, depending on the creator.

For instance, say you ask a fairy-themed Oracle deck, “When will I get a raise?” and pull a fairy that conveys emotions of bliss and serenity. This card can’t tell you exactly when you’ll get a raise, but it can tell you how you may feel around that time. [8] X Research source

If you’re a beginner and gravitate more toward Tarot, pick up a Tarot deck instead! There are no rules on what you have to do—follow you heart and choose a deck that best fits your needs.

Play around with your decks to create more and more layers in your readings. Use whichever deck you feel drawn to during a reading. Lay out your cards or create spreads based on how you feel and what you can visualize.

An Angel card’s interpretation is up to the creator and reader, as they follow a free-flowing structure.