What are Oracle Cards?
Oracle cards are a set of divination tools used for personal guidance, self-reflection, and spiritual growth. As well as for getting messages and guidance when you are making decisions.
Unlike their relatives, Tarot cards, which follow a specific structure, oracle cards are more freeform and can be themed around anything from angels to animals, elements to ancestors. They are a modern take on ancient wisdom, repackaged into a deck of beautifully designed cards, each with a unique message.
The Anatomy of an Oracle Deck
A typical oracle deck varies in the number of cards, usually ranging between 30 and 60, and each deck comes with its own set of symbols, themes, and meanings. Some decks may be accompanied by a guidebook providing instructions and interpretations to help users understand the messages each card conveys.
With the card deck creators I work with, I often suggest they create oracle cards that are simple and don't require a guidebook. We are in a time now, more than ever, where we want to encourage people to use their own intuition and they can do this by tuning into the card and the words on the card to create the meaning for them personally.
How Do Oracle Cards Work?
Oracle cards work on the principle of synchronicity, a concept introduced by psychologist Carl Jung, which suggests that events are "meaningful coincidences" if they occur with no causal relationship yet seem to be meaningfully related. When you draw a card, it is not by chance—it is the one meant for you at that moment, providing insights tailored to your inquiries or your subconscious mind’s workings.
Using Oracle Cards for Personal Growth
The beauty of oracle cards lies in their versatility. Here’s how you can use them:
- Daily Insight: Draw a card each morning to contemplate a focus for your day.
- Problem-Solving: Use the cards when you're at a crossroads for a different perspective.
- Creative Blocks: Pull a card to overcome creative stagnation or to inspire new ideas.
- Meditative Focus: Select a card to meditate on, allowing its image and message to guide your thoughts.
- Affirmation Practice: Many oracle cards contain affirmations for daily practice and encouragement.
Choosing Your First Oracle Deck
Selecting an oracle deck is a personal journey. You should feel drawn to the imagery, the quality of the cards, and the theme of the deck. It’s also beneficial if the accompanying guidebook resonates with you and is easy to understand.
The Difference Between Oracle Cards and Tarot
While tarot cards have a fixed structure (78 cards, divided into Major and Minor Arcana), oracle cards have no such rules—they are a wild garden compared to the cultivated plot of the tarot. This makes oracle cards more accessible to beginners or those looking for a more intuitive and less structured approach to divination.
Final Thoughts
Oracle cards are a unique spiritual tool that invite you to tap into your intuition and the collective unconscious. They are not about predicting the future but rather about grounding you in the present and providing the guidance you need. Whether you’re looking for answers, seeking comfort, or simply wish to expand your contemplative practices, oracle cards can be a valuable and enriching addition to your spiritual toolkit.
You can use oracle cards on a daily basis for insight and guidance.
