What is the relationship between astrology and tarot cards?

Astrology and tarot, are they two separate systems?

If you are interested in both astrology and tarot, you might find that these two systems, though seemingly different, have a surprising resonance. The cosmic language of astrology and the symbolic imagery of tarot cards have long been integrated into a complete system within the tradition of Western esotericism.

Many people think that astrology and tarot are completely independent systems. In reality, since the 19th-century esoteric society, the 'Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn,' a systematic correspondence was established between astrology and tarot. The most popular modern tarot, the Rider-Waite Tarot, was heavily influenced by astrology in its imagery.

This article will guide you through the correspondence between astrology and tarot, and how to apply this knowledge in actual divination to make your readings more personally profound.

The Correspondence Between the Twelve Zodiac Signs and the Major Arcana

In the tradition of Western esotericism, the 22 Major Arcana cards are corresponded with planets and the twelve signs of the Zodiac. Here are the common correspondences:

How to Use Astrological Knowledge in Divination?

The Four Elements of the Minor Arcana and the Zodiac

The four suits of the Minor Arcana (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles) also correspond to the four elements and zodiac signs. This is very helpful for understanding why you might frequently draw a certain type of card.

【Wands × Fire Signs】Corresponds to Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, representing passion, creativity, and action. Fire-sign people may often draw Wands cards, which are full of energy and challenges. 【Cups × Water Signs】Corresponds to Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces, representing emotions, intuition, and relationships. Water-sign people often have a particularly deep emotional resonance with Cups cards. 【Swords × Air Signs】Corresponds to Gemini, Libra, Aquarius, representing thought, communication, and conflict. When Swords cards appear in a reading for an air-sign person, it often points to challenges on a mental level. 【Pentacles × Earth Signs】Corresponds to Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, representing the material world, finances, and practical achievements. The realistic tendencies of earth-sign people make them particularly aligned with the frequency of Pentacles cards.

When you notice a particular suit appearing frequently in your readings, consider whether the aspect of life represented by that element currently requires your special attention.

Conclusion: Astrology and Tarot, Complementary Tools for Self-Exploration

Astrology and tarot cards are not in competition; they are complementary languages for self-exploration. Astrology provides a person's 'factory settings'—your natal traits, tendencies, and challenges—while tarot acts like a real-time mirror, reflecting your current state and potential paths.

You don't need to study astrology in-depth to use tarot, but if you have a basic understanding of the zodiac, adding an astrological perspective to your readings can significantly enhance their depth and personalization.

If you want to know your rising or moon sign, you can use the natal chart analysis tool on moritarot.com. Just enter your birth time and place, and in a few seconds, you'll get a personalized AI analysis to make your tarot journey richer and more informed.