There is often confusion concerning the difference between Tarot and Oracle Cards.

Both decks are generally used to help you connect with your own subconscious in order to bring insight, perspective, clarity, personal growth and inspiration.

The Tarot dates back to at least the fifteenth century, with many believing that their roots can be found in ancient Egypt. Oracle cards meanwhile are a relatively recent introduction to the divinatory field.
The two types are however, structured quite differently. The tarot follows a strict format, which has remained unchanged for centuries, whilst oracle cards can be anything the artist or author wishes them to be. Here are a few of the differences:

Tarot

• The Tarot has 78 cards (with the exception of Osho Zen).
• There are 22 Major Arcana cards, which relate to major life changing events, or long term effects.
• There are  56 Minor Arcana cards, consisting of the four suits of wands, swords, cups (chalices) and pentacles (coins). It also has four court cards, including the Page, Knight, Queen and King.
• These suits can be likened to modern playing cards hence: clubs, spades, hearts and diamonds respectively.
• The minor arcana looks at temporary influences, people who are currently in your orbit and minor life events.
• The tarot is far more complex than oracle cards.

Oracle Cards

• Oracle decks are both styled and organised by their creator and each follows its own set of rules.
• They may have any number of cards although this usually falls between 36 and 64.
• Many have a brief meaning of the card printed on them, although a comprehensive guide book is usually included with the cards for a more in depth meaning.

How do I know which one to choose?

It is, as always, down to personal choice. If you are a beginner, then Oracle Cards may be easier to work with as the Tarot take both time and effort in order to become proficient.  The Tarot however, offer a far more detailed and in depth reading, albeit their images are often more alarming than most Oracle cards.

Some people feel that to read the Tarot properly you have to be bestowed with some sort of psychic ability, whilst Oracle cards can be read by anyone.