Tarot reading is a practice with a rich history, traveling through centuries to the modern world. It collects wisdom and secrets about life, helping people see hidden truths about themselves and gain insights. As more tarot masters offer services via the internet, accurate tarot reading online has become accessible from the comfort of one's home. However, questions often arise regarding the legitimacy, safety, and legality of these services. Understanding the difference between a legitimate practice and a scam is essential for anyone seeking guidance. This article explores the nature of tarot readings, identifies signs of fraudulent practitioners, and debunks common myths that cloud the public perception of this ancient art.
The Nature of Tarot Professionals and Practice
A tarot reader is a professional who possesses experience and a gift for interpreting the meanings of tarot spreads. While each tarot card has assigned meanings, talented readers look beyond the surface to glimpse the unknown. They utilize their conscious and subconscious minds, intuition, and practical knowledge to achieve accuracy in readings. The goal of a professional tarot reader is to help people find answers to their questions using the ancient wisdom provided through the cards. Good readers establish and maintain an energetic connection with their tarot deck and often have specific rituals to help them tune into the right mode. It is important to note that real readers never promise 100% accuracy, as this is impossible.
Regarding the practice itself, reading tarot and receiving readings is legal in most US states, though regulations may vary by location. The practice is surrounded by skeptical perspectives, but within the professional community, reducing scamming situations is taken seriously. One reason people trust scammers is the prevalence of stereotypes. A person without experience may visualize a professional tarot reader as an old lady wearing black and painting pentacles on her table in candlelight to create a mysterious atmosphere. Scammers often use these stereotypes to attract people and earn their trust.
Identifying Fake Tarot Readers and Scams
Spotting a fake tarot reader involves recognizing specific behaviors. Scammers who pretend to be online tarot readers often exhibit signs that distinguish them from legitimate professionals. Feedback from individuals who have encountered fake readers highlights several red flags.
Constant Upselling
A primary sign of a scammer is constant upselling. While professional tarot reading is a business involving sales, not all upselling is a scam. However, fake readers are often too pushy and seem to pay more attention to the client's wallet than to the request. This behavior undermines the trust necessary for an effective session.
The Importance of Trust and Comfort
The first rule for anyone seeking an effective and resultative tarot session is trusting the reader. If something makes a client feel uncomfortable, it is considered a red flag. Legitimate professionals prioritize the client's well-being and the integrity of the session over aggressive sales tactics.
Debunking Common Tarot Myths
Misinformation regarding tarot is rampant. Many myths create fear or misunderstanding, preventing people from accessing the benefits of tarot for self-reflection and decision-making. The following sections address and debunk these common misconceptions based on factual information.
Myth: Tarot is Associated with Evil or Occult Practices
Fact: Tarot is often misunderstood as being associated with evil or occult practices. In reality, tarot is a tool for self-reflection, personal growth, and gaining insight into various aspects of life. It has no inherent connection to evil or dark forces. Tarot's origins lie in rich symbolism and archetypal representations, drawing inspiration from various spiritual and philosophical traditions. Furthermore, tarot has no connection to dark magic, witchcraft, or demonic forces. It originated as a card game in the 15th century and is now widely used for self-reflection, mindfulness, and psychology.
Myth: Tarot is Only for the Psychically Gifted or Requires Special Abilities
Fact: While some individuals may possess natural intuitive abilities, reading tarot is a skill that can be cultivated through study, practice, and personal connection with the cards. Anyone can learn to read tarot and tap into their own intuition to interpret the cards' meanings. Tarot reading relies on symbolism, intuition, and personal interpretation, not supernatural abilities.
Myth: You Must Be Gifted Your First Deck
A super common myth is that one cannot buy their own deck and must be gifted their first deck. Tarot reader and author Theresa Reed has stated that this myth is "total rubbish," noting that waiting for a gift might prevent someone from starting their practice. This myth is viewed as a form of gatekeeping in the tarot community, possibly a legacy of 19th-century closed occult societies. There is nothing wrong with buying a deck for oneself; tarot is a folk magic practice that belongs to the people, and permission from someone else is not required to start a practice. Many experienced readers buy their own decks and choose ones that resonate with them.
Myth: Tarot Card Meanings are Set in Stone
Fact: Tarot card meanings are not set in stone. Their interpretations depend on the context of the reading, the question asked, the surrounding cards, and personal intuition. For example, the Death card rarely means physical death; it usually symbolizes transformation and new beginnings.
Myth: Tarot Can Only Answer Yes or No Questions
Fact: While tarot can offer guidance on yes or no questions, its true power lies in providing deeper insights and perspectives. Tarot readings are meant to explore the nuances of situations, reveal underlying influences, and provide guidance for personal growth. The cards offer a more comprehensive understanding of the energies and factors at play, allowing for a more holistic interpretation and guidance.
Myth: Tarot Readings Require Specific Rituals or Superstitions
Fact: Tarot reading does not require elaborate rituals or adherence to specific superstitions.
Myth: Tarot Readings Are Always Serious and Life-Changing
Fact: Tarot can be lighthearted, fun, and insightful without being dramatic. Another common myth is that tarot is always about major life crises, deep spiritual revelations, or life-altering decisions. While tarot can provide deep insights, it can also be used in fun, creative, and playful ways.
Real-Life Examples of Fun Ways to Use Tarot
People use tarot in various creative and lighthearted manners: * Daily Affirmations: Some people pull a tarot card in the morning to set a positive mindset. * Creative Brainstorming: Writers and artists use tarot to inspire stories and new ideas. * Tarot for Parties: Friends perform tarot readings for fun at gatherings without taking them too seriously. * Pet Tarot Readings: Some readers pull cards for their pets to see what their "energy" is for the day. The takeaway is that tarot is not always about big, serious life choices; it can be used for playfulness, creativity, and entertainment.
Myth: Reversed Tarot Cards Always Indicate Negative Outcomes
Fact: Reversed tarot cards do not always indicate negative outcomes.
Myth: Tarot Makes Decisions for You
Fact: Tarot does not make decisions for you. Instead, it provides insight into your emotions, relationship dynamics, and possible outcomes based on your current situation. Ultimately, the decision remains yours. Tarot can help clarify thoughts but should not replace personal judgment.
Understanding Tarot Interpretations
The flexibility of tarot is a key takeaway. Tarot meanings are flexible and depend on context, intuition, and interpretation. Engaging with tarot in a fun way makes it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The diverse nature of tarot allows for unique interpretations based on the specific circumstances of the reading.
Conclusion
Tarot is a legitimate practice with a history of providing insight and guidance. It is a tool for self-reflection and personal growth, free from the dark associations often portrayed in myths. Legitimate practitioners focus on establishing trust and providing genuine insight, distinguishing themselves from scammers who rely on stereotypes and aggressive upselling. By understanding the true nature of tarot—its flexibility, accessibility, and varied applications—individuals can approach the practice with confidence and clarity. Whether used for deep life questions or lighthearted daily inspiration, tarot remains a valuable resource for exploring the self and the world.