Many readers use tarot cards and oracle cards for divination, and each reader interprets the cards differently. 

Readers choose decks based on the type of guidance your querent needs. Decks differ in meaning, symbols, number of cards, and interpretation methods. 

You need to be clear about the question you are asking the cards if you are doing a reading for yourself. 

If you are reading for someone, ensure they understand what they are asking the cards for. 

I want to explain the difference between tarot and Oracle cards before discussing what you may be looking for from your readings, whether you do them yourself or go to a reader (and what your querent wants out of the reading if you are the one doing it). 

How Tarot And Oracle Cards Are Different

There are 78 Tarot cards, of which 22 are in the Major Arcana, representing major life events. Including the court cards are 56 cards in the Minor Arcana, divided into four suits representing ordinary life stuff. 

Tarot cards can guide the reader by providing insight into the past, present, and future. 

After the cards have been shuffled, the reader will choose several cards to put into a spread based on the nature of the reading and the circumstance (is it for relationships, career, or finances, for example?). After that, the cards will be interpreted by the reader. 

The story is told through the cards chronologically; each card has a name, number, and symbol. 

There is a beginning, middle, and end to every card. It's essential to know the basic meanings of the tarot cards, but you also use your intuition as there are nuances to the meanings of each card based on the spread. 

An oracle deck differs from a tarot deck, and its rules also vary. Oracle decks do not have rules because of their variety in number, meaning, and theme. 

As the reader develops their meaning and heightens their intuition, Oracle decks lack structure. 

Only Lenormand cards do not have room for interpretation since they are pretty black and white, unlike other types of Oracle cards. 

Pulling the Anchor means stability while pulling the Mice means minor problems that can snowball into significant issues. The Clover is a symbol of short-lived luck. 

However, many oracle decks contain quotes to inspire you and encourage you to practice mindfulness, self-reflection, mental blocks, behavioral habits, and any hidden truths. 

So many Oracle decks serve different purposes, so it depends on the one you are using. Multiple Oracle decks serving other purposes are possible.

Do You Need An Oracle Deck?

Oracle cards are good if you want to use them as general guidance. You can also use Tarot cards for the same purpose. You can, however, use Oracle decks if you only have time to pull a card or two for the day's theme. 

Some people pull one tarot card daily and interpret its meaning, but this can be time-consuming and difficult. The Oracle cards are more straightforward and don't require too much thought. 

You should read more than one card when reading tarot cards to get the most out of them. Therefore, oracle cards are perfect for daily inspiration when you don't want to spend a lot of energy interpreting them. 

Whether you journal, meditate, or pray, oracle cards can be incorporated into your daily practices. Additionally, they are excellent for self-improvement. 

You can use Tarot for that too, but as mentioned, oracle cards will simplify what you need to focus on, while tarot cards force you to dig deep inside, which can consume a lot of energy.

In contrast, Oracle cards simplify what you need to focus on, whereas tarot cards make you think hard about what you need to focus on. 

Tarot cards can be incorporated into your daily rituals if you prefer. However, Oracle makes the process more straightforward.

Oracle cards can also inspire you to interpret them in your own way, but you shouldn't have to think too hard about it. 

How Do Oracle Decks Compare?

Regarding providing intuitive insight, there isn't a better Oracle deck than another, as both work equally well. 

Nonetheless, if you're looking for more in-depth answers, you're better off sticking with Tarot, as Oracle decks don't provide that. 

Because oracle decks use inspirational quotes and imagery, they are highly open to interpretation. Nevertheless, they are extremely popular among readers, which is why so many of them collect them. 

As an individual, you will discover which decks feel right for you based on your preferences and who you are. Depending on your feelings about the decks, you may want to give some away if you no longer feel connected to them. 

How Do You Choose The Best Oracle Deck?

Based on what you need and want to know, you can choose what type of Oracle deck to use.

It is better to use Tarot if you are looking for a yes or no answer or want to see the possible outcomes if you decide to take a particular path because Oracle will not help you other than possibly Lenormand. 

Lenormand is different in that it can give you concrete answers and glimpses of possible future outcomes. If you want to look at more complex outcomes, you will need the Tarot. 

If you're looking for insight into decision-making or heavy self-reflection, you'll want to stick with tarot cards because they are a lot more concise.

However, a more energetic read will be found in any Oracle deck if that is not what you seek. You can also use the Oracle deck if you want a general answer. 

Oracle cards can provide insight into a particular situation during meditation and prayer, as they aren't black-and-white. 

Tarot cards require several cards to spread, whereas Oracle readings use only one card, except for Lenormand. 

You have time to decide, and if you want some quick insights in a few minutes, you can pull an Oracle card to see what message it carries.

Ponder on it; your intuition will bring you the answers you seek. You can also use your tarot cards if you want something more complex. 

Tarot and oracle cards have another essential quality. As you cannot rely on the cards to make your decisions, it is up to you to make them. You are the master of your life, so that they will provide helpful insight. 

Can You Use Oracle and Tarot Together?

It is possible to use both cards together, which many readers do. Having different tools that give you additional insight is always a good idea. 

Tarot readers often use Lenormand cards to help hone their message after doing a tarot reading. You can use other Oracle cards to clarify your or someone else's reading. 

In addition, you can pull an oracle card and meditate on it for a while before doing an entire tarot spread later in the day to explore the message you received. 

Additionally, you can personalize your readings in any way since there is no right or wrong way. It's all about intent, purpose, and preference. 

Pendulums, runes, candles, and crystals can all enhance your readings. What you choose to do with your readings is up to you. 

What is new on Tarot Talk? Some articles are written by myself, and some brilliant contributors were up this past week:

What Happens To Tarot Cards If You Neglect To Cleanse Them?

The Star: An In-Depth Look at Tarot Card #17

The Women of Myth Oracle Deck Review

My Night With The Nine Of Swords