history of divination tools

Tarot
The origins of tarot can be traced back to the 15th century in Europe, likely in Italy. Initially, tarot decks were not intended for divination. They were used as playing cards in various games. It wasn’t until the 18th century that tarot cards started being associated with mysticism and the occult.
The Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck was created by Arthur Waite and artist Pamela Smith in 1909. This deck played a vital part in popularizing tarot for divination purposes. It introduced symbolic images and meanings for each card, setting the standard that many subsequent decks would follow.
Interest continued to grow within the realm of spiritual and mystical practices in the 20th century. Tarot’s symbolism draws from various esoteric traditions, including astrology, Kabbalah, and alchemy. Tarot became a popular tool, providing insights into the past, present, future. Today, there are countless tarot decks, each with it’s unique themes and interpretations. This makes tarot reading a widely embraced and versatile practice for seekers looking for guidance and self-reflection.

Oracle
These cards have a rich and varied history. While their exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, their use can be traced back to diverse cultural and spiritual traditions. However, the modern concept of oracle cards gained popularity in the 18th century in Europe. Madame Lenormand, a renowned French fortune-teller, is often credited with popularizing cartomancy, a practice that involved reading cards for divination. In the 19th century there was an emergence of various divination decks. The 20th century there was a surge of interest with the rise of New Age spirituality. Artists began creating decks with diverse themes, from angels and mythology to nature and symbolism.

~If tarot and oracle sound similar, it’s because they are! To me, I consider tarot to be the pages in a book and oracle being the chapters. Tarot does have a more established and structed history. Oracle on the other hand have a less specific origin. Card wise, tarot traditionally consists of 78 cards divided into the Major Arcana and minor arcana. Oracle decks vary widely in structure. They can have any number of cards and may or may not follow a specific system~

Runes
Haven’t heard of runes? They are ancient symbols of divination, bringing a touch of Norse magic to illuminate hidden truths. Dating as far back as 150 AD. Runes were used by Germanic tribes. A rune is a symbol used as a letter in the runic alphabets native to Germanic peoples before they adopted the Latin alphabet. Elder Futhark is the most common runes. Over time there have been variations for the meanings of the runes. As well as different types of runes, like witches runes. These runes are considered a magical alphabet invented specifically for witches’ divination purposes. Likely invented in the 19th century or early 20th century. They are usually 8-13 symbols. Whereas, Elder Futhark has 24 characters. I enjoy incorporating runes in my card readings. Either the two rune types together or just one. Whatever I am guided to!

Pendulums
The history of pendulums traces back to ancient Rome and Greece. They were used by individuals to predict the future. Nostradamus, the renowned seer from the 16th century, is said to have utilized this ancient practice as part of his divinatory methods. They are perfect for those seeking a swift yes or no answer. By harnessing the energetic flow, the pendulum swings in response to your inquiries. Providing concise and direct answers. The use of this tool reflects a longstanding tradition that has transcended cultures and centuries. I may employ my pendulum to gain clarification or confirmation during a reading. They are a great option for those that want to keep their reading simple.