Tarot cards have captivated mystics, seekers, and fortune-tellers for centuries. But how old are tarot cards, and when did this enigmatic divination system first appear?
Ancient Roots:
The origins of tarot cards are shrouded in mystery, but there are tantalizing clues that suggest they may date back to ancient times. Some scholars believe that the concept of using cards for divination originated in China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 CE).
Medieval Europe:
Tarot cards as we know them today likely emerged in medieval Europe around the 14th century. The earliest known tarot deck, known as the Visconti-Sforza deck, was commissioned by the Duke of Milan in the mid-15th century.
Renaissance and Beyond:
During the Renaissance, tarot cards gained widespread popularity as a form of entertainment and fortune-telling. They were used by nobles, scholars, and commoners alike to gain insights into their lives and futures.
18th and 19th Centuries:
In the 18th and 19th centuries, tarot cards began to attract the attention of occultists and esotericists. Eliphas Levi, a French occultist, published a book in 1854 that linked tarot cards to ancient Egyptian and Kabbalistic traditions.
20th Century and Beyond:
In the 20th century, tarot cards experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among counterculture and New Age movements. Today, tarot cards are used by millions of people around the world for divination, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration.
Conclusion:
While the exact age of tarot cards is unknown, it is clear that they have a long and fascinating history. From their possible origins in ancient China to their widespread use in medieval Europe and beyond, tarot cards have captivated minds and hearts for centuries. As a tool for divination, self-reflection, and connection to the divine, tarot cards continue to offer insights and guidance to seekers of all ages.