As my new found love for oracle decks bloom, I wanted to make a basic information page for them! It’s not much, but I needed to write this down somewhere so I don’t forget it since I don’t have a book for my many witchy info at the moment. <3
Oracle decks are a divination tool used to predict and answer your inner questions! They’re cards with depictions and specific meanings to aid you with answers.
What’s the difference between oracle decks and tarot decks?
The main difference between tarot decks and oracle decks is that tarot decks have a specific set of rules and structure to them. Tarot decks usually have 78 cards, whilst oracle decks can have as many or as little cards as the creator wants. Oracle decks don’t have rules or structures either. Tarot decks are very “strict” you could say while oracle decks are “free”.
Oracle decks have specific themes to them. And some oracle decks are created for a specific use (but they can still be used generally if that’s what you wish.)
Another difference I’ve personally seen, is that oracle decks are way more intuitive evoking and easier to read because of how simple the oracle card’s message is, usually decks that have sentences on them.
Oracle decks are very straightforward. They tell you about the whole situation and what may come while tarot decks just tell you why it’s happening and how it’s happening. An example that always helps me remember what these two divination tools are used for is to always remember that tarot decks are telling the story and oracle decks ARE the story (credit to biddytarot.com for that example, it’s a lifesaver)
Remember: tarot decks aren’t better than oracle decks and vise versa. It’s all based on personal preference and how you connect to the divination tool. I suggest trying both out and seeing which form of divination you feel helps you best.
What are they best used for?
Deity/spirit communication
Spreads (made for tarot or not, they work just as well with oracle cards)
Seriously oracle decks can be used for just about ANYTHING. Don’t limit yourself honestly, they work really great with almost every spread and question you have in mind.
What are some good oracle decks for beginners?
Personally, I think a first timer can go for any oracle deck they desire as that’s how you create a bond with your deck and find it easier to read the deck. So my first recommendation would be to get the oracle deck that calls out to you; you won’t be sorry.
If you want to make sure you have an easy first experience I really suggest finding oracle decks that have sentences on them! They make the card really easier to understand!
So with that being said, I suggest the “Work Your Light” oracle deck! It’s very straightforward with a “Yes” and “No” card included with its cards and the illustration is beautiful! Not only is it very pretty, but it includes woc and incorporates a lot of religions.
Goddess guidance oracle deck is another great beginner deck! It shows many goddesses from different pantheons respectfully and the illustrations are very beautiful! The cards themselves have those sentences at the bottom which are always handy in immediately knowing what the card is about when you pull it in a reading.
Magickal messages from the faeries oracle deck. This deck, obviously, is very faery based! Now, you can use it for communication with the fae or just in general.
The power of surrender cards. Like most of the cards I’ve listed off, this deck is very easy to interpret and understand when you draw cards. Very great for beginners!!!
How do I cleanse my oracle deck?
Knock on your deck three times
Put a crystal on your deck
Set it on your/or your deity’s alter
Shuffle it with cleansing intention
Wave it through incense smoke
Set your deck near your plants