Tarot has been around for centuries, but in all that time, myths, misconceptions, and downright strange ideas have grown up around it. Some people see it as a mystical doorway to hidden knowledge, while others dismiss it as nothing more than a parlour trick. And then there are those who believe it’s downright dangerous.
After years of reading Tarot for people from all walks of life, I’ve heard it all – the wild, the wonderful, and the completely ridiculous. So, let’s dive into seven of the biggest myths about Tarot and separate fact from fiction.
1. Tarot is Evil and Connected to Dark Forces
Let’s start with the big one. Some people genuinely believe that Tarot is tied to the occult, demons, or even the devil himself. This idea has been around for centuries, fuelled by Hollywood horror films, religious fears, and a general misunderstanding of what Tarot actually is.
The truth? Tarot is a tool. It’s a deck of 78 illustrated cards, rich in symbolism, that help readers interpret situations, energies, and potential outcomes. There’s nothing inherently evil about pieces of printed card. A Tarot reading isn’t about summoning spirits or making deals with dark forces – it’s about guidance, intuition, and perspective.
That being said, if you go into a reading expecting horror-movie-style drama, your own fears might colour the experience. But trust me, no demons are waiting to jump out of the deck.
2. You Must Be Gifted Your First Tarot Deck
This is one of the most common superstitions in the Tarot world. The idea is that you should never buy your own deck – it must be gifted to you, or else it won’t work properly.
Where did this come from? No one really knows, but it’s likely an old tradition that got taken too literally. While receiving a deck as a gift is lovely, it’s not necessary.
If you’re drawn to Tarot, buy the deck that calls to you. You don’t need to wait around for someone else to pick one for you.
3. The Death Card Means You’re Going to Die
Ah, the Death card – the one that always gets an over-the-top reaction in films and TV shows. Pull the Death card, and suddenly the music turns ominous, the camera zooms in dramatically, and someone gasps in horror.
In reality? The Death card is one of the most positive and transformative cards in the deck. It rarely means actual physical death. Instead, it symbolises endings, transitions, and new beginnings. It’s about letting go of the old to make way for the new – a job change, the end of a toxic relationship, a major shift in mindset.
So, unless you’re in a horror movie, don’t panic if the Death card shows up in your reading. It’s far more about personal growth than doom and gloom.
4. Tarot Readings Predict the Future with 100% Accuracy
This is a big one. Many people come to a Tarot reading expecting crystal-clear predictions about their future, down to the exact time and place events will happen. They want to know when they’ll meet their soulmate, get a new job, or win the lottery.
But Tarot isn’t about fixed destinies. It shows possibilities, patterns, and potential outcomes based on the energy of the moment. Your choices, actions, and mindset can all influence the direction your life takes.
Think of Tarot as a weather forecast – it gives you insight into what’s likely to come, but ultimately, you decide whether to take an umbrella or walk into the storm.
5. Only ‘Special’ People Can Read Tarot
There’s a belief that only those with psychic abilities, spiritual gifts, or a special connection to the universe can read Tarot. Some people even think that if you’re not naturally intuitive, the cards won’t work for you.
The truth? Anyone can learn to read Tarot. Like any skill, it takes time, practice, and study, but you don’t have to be born with mystical powers. Some readers rely heavily on intuition, while others take a more analytical approach, studying the symbolism and meanings of the cards.
If you’re interested in Tarot, pick up a deck, start learning, and trust yourself. The magic comes from your interpretation and connection to the cards – not some hidden supernatural gift.
6. Tarot Tells You What You Want to Hear
Some sceptics dismiss Tarot as nothing more than feel-good fortune-telling, saying that readers just tell people what they want to hear. While there are certainly some people out there who sugarcoat their readings, a good Tarot reader won’t shy away from the truth.
Tarot can deliver tough messages. It can highlight obstacles, warn about toxic relationships, and show you where you might be holding yourself back. But it doesn’t do this to scare you – it does it to help you grow.
A Tarot reading isn’t about hearing what you want to hear; it’s about hearing what you need to hear. The real question is, are you ready to listen?
7. Tarot Readers Can Read Your Mind
This is one of the more amusing myths I’ve encountered. Some people sit down for a reading and expect me to immediately know everything about them – their past, their secrets, their deepest fears. Others worry that I might ‘see’ something in the cards they don’t want revealed.
Let me be clear: Tarot readers are not mind-readers. We don’t have instant access to all your thoughts and memories. What we do is interpret the cards, read the energy, and use our intuition to provide insights.
If a reader picks up on something personal, it’s not because they’re spying into your soul – it’s because the cards are reflecting the themes, challenges, or emotions you’re currently experiencing. And if you don’t want to discuss something? That’s absolutely your choice.
Final Thoughts
Tarot is a fascinating, powerful tool for self-reflection and guidance, but like anything mysterious, it has attracted its fair share of myths. Whether you’re a believer, a sceptic, or somewhere in between, the best way to understand Tarot is to experience it for yourself.
And if you’re curious, why not book a Tarot reading or host a Tarot Party for your next event? Whether it’s a private reading, a wedding, or a corporate function, Tarot can bring insight, entertainment, and a little bit of magic. Get in touch to find out more!
