So, you’re ready to dive into tarot, but there’s one question tripping you up: “Which deck should I get?” I’ve heard this question more times than I can count, and my answer never wavers: the Rider Waite Tarot Deck. Known as the OG of tarot decks, Rider Waite is the go-to for anyone wanting to learn tarot without the confusing mumbo jumbo. It’s all about strong, easy-to-remember imagery that’s perfect for tarot newbies.
Lots of folks, from tarot rookies to seasoned pros, dig the Rider Waite Deck. Its universal appeal is all about the clear, powerful images that directly connect to the card meanings, making it an awesome learning tool.
Loads of experienced readers stick with the Rider Waite deck, not just for their own readings, but also when they’re interpreting the cards for other folks. The bold imagery is a cinch to interpret and share, making it easy to get the tarot’s messages across.
For anyone new to tarot, this deck is a must-have. The strong imagery helps spark your intuition, letting you dive deeper into the meanings of the cards. With the Rider Waite deck, you’re not just memorizing card meanings—you’re learning to really connect with the cards on a deeper level.
To truly get the Rider Waite deck, it helps to know where it came from. Named after publisher William Rider and mystical dude A.E. Waite, the deck was brought to life by artist Pamela Colman Smith way back in 1909. Smith’s rad illustrations were a game changer because they included detailed scenes on every card, not just the Major Arcana. This was a big shift from traditional decks of the time, and it made the Rider Waite deck super accessible and easy to understand.
A.E. Waite was part of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret society that was all about studying the occult. His deep knowledge of esoteric symbolism is reflected in the deck, but it’s Smith’s artistic interpretation that really brings the cards to life. Her vibrant illustrations tell a story, turning each card into a portal into a rich narrative world.
There are several versions of the Rider Waite deck, each with its own unique vibe:
This is the OG, the one that started it all back in 1909. The Standard Rider-Waite deck features the quintessential illustrations by Pamela Colman Smith that have stood the test of time.
The images are rich with symbolism and narrative, each card like a mini storybook. But, here’s the deal: because it’s over a century old, the print quality can sometimes feel a bit dated, making some of the finer details harder to distinguish. This deck is all about embracing the vintage vibes and appreciating the original artwork in all its historic glory.
Released in 1971, the Universal Rider-Waite keeps the heart and soul of the original, but brings it into the modern age with slight tweaks. The card backs and coloring have been updated, giving the deck a fresh look while maintaining the integrity of Smith’s original illustrations.
This version offers a balance between upholding tradition and adapting to contemporary aesthetics. It’s the same beloved imagery, but with a bit more clarity and vibrancy, making it easier to spot those crucial symbolic details.
This is a vibrant, colorized version of the original Rider-Waite deck, released in 2009, and the one i recommend.Launched in 2009, the Radiant Rider-Waite is like the original deck on a sunny day. It boosts the color palette of the original deck with brighter hues and sharper images, bringing Smith’s illustrations to life in a new way.
The symbols and details pop, making it easier for tarot newbies to decode the meaning of each card. This deck is like a rejuvenated, high-definition version of the original, making the arcane symbols of tarot more accessible to modern eyes.
Now, let’s talk about some other versions of tarot decks that have been popping up everywhere – the pretty and shiny ones like holographic, glitter, and gold foil decks. These are definitely eye-catching and can make your tarot journey feel a bit more magical. But here’s the catch:
While these decks are gorgeous to look at, they can sometimes skimp on the important details that make the Rider Waite imagery so instructive. The intricate symbolism in each card can get lost amidst the sparkle and shine. So, while they make a stylish addition to your tarot collection, they might not be the best choice for beginners trying to learn the meanings and interpretations of the cards.
Remember, the key to a great tarot deck isn’t just how it looks – it’s about how well it communicates the deep and rich symbolism of tarot. The Rider Waite decks, with their clear imagery and faithful adherence to traditional tarot symbolism, are designed to do just that. So, while the shimmer and shine can be fun, when it comes to really diving deep into tarot, you might want to stick with the tried-and-true versions.
The question isn’t so much about when you can switch to another deck, but when you should. The Rider Waite deck isn’t just for newbies—it’s a learning tool that keeps deepening your understanding of tarot.
Before you even think about a new deck, make sure you’ve really got a handle on the cards and meanings of your current deck. This doesn’t mean being able to recite card meanings like a parrot, but understanding the essence of each card and intuitively interpreting its meaning in different contexts. Really knowing a deck means using it as a tool for self-discovery, guidance, and understanding.
In the tarot world, the Rider Waite deck is a superstar. Its clear, powerful imagery makes it an ideal tool for learning tarot’s language. While other decks may offer different perspectives and styles, the Rider Waite deck is the ultimate starting point for any tarot adventure. So, if you’re taking your first steps into the world of tarot, take them with the Rider Waite deck—you won’t regret it.