notes from Benebell Wen’s Holistic Tarot, ch. 24 & 25
explaining methodology
a reading is a partnership between seeker and reader. the seeker brings their question and their life experience; the reader brings study and experience using tarot as an interpretive framework
the overall objective of a reading is to bring the seeker greater clarity on their question and provide them with actionable advice, using the cards as a tool to
- tap into the infinitely complex web of energy, action, and reaction that underpins and constitutes the universe
- call upon archetypes and symbols that have accrued meaning within the collective unconscious over time and through culture
reader may ask questions throughout to get further input from the seeker; seeker may interrupt or ask clarifying questions at any time
ethical considerations
if there are conflicts of interest or prior familiarity with the seeker, let them know that such conflicts or familiarity may inadvertently affect your reading of the cards
tarot often reveals criticism that nudges us to honestly evaluate ourselves and our actions. this information may be difficult to accept, and many seekers are coming to a reading from a place of vulnerability. it is a reader’s responsibility to hold space for them responsibly and communicate such criticism or insights in an empowering manner, better equipping the seeker to succeed or improve an outcome.
when cards indicate oncoming tragedy, don’t predict doom. warn the seeker to be cautious and attentive to the needs of themselves and others; tell them a transitional period is coming, which may be painful, but will lead to growth in the long run. ask them to consider what resources they have at their disposal to help them weather storms—because the occasional storm is inevitable, no matter what the cards say.
if a seeker comes seeking help regarding a specific emergent situation, strongly encourage them to address their immediate concerns through the help of a qualified professional. tarot may be used to help a seeker reorient themselves, reposition their perspective, and strengthen coping mechanisms after more urgent needs have been addressed.
wise practices
- rephrase or refuse to read for inappropriate questions
- refuse to answer specific health-related questions, as the potential risk to the seeker’s health based on their response to the reading is significant. direct the seeker to seek out medical providers for answers
- refuse to read for seekers under the age of 18
- never enable a seeker to interfere or intrude on another person’s affairs without that person’s knowledge and consent
rephrasing questions
questions that ask for a fixed prediction or a yes-no response are often rephrased. good tarot questions often start with “what” or “how” – not looking for absolute, definitive answers to anything, but to cast greater light on a situation
- what do i need to know about …?
- how do i obtain/achieve/overcome …?
- what am i not seeing or refusing to see?
- what do i need to understand in order to move forward from my situation in a good way?