If you’ve ever wandered into the shop and found yourself drawn to the magical world of Tarot and Oracle Decks but felt unsure where to start, don’t worry—you’re not alone! With all the different deck options it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. But the beauty of it all? There’s no “right” choice, just the one that speaks to you.

Whether you're new to tarot and oracle decks or looking to expand your collection, let’s dive into the enchanting differences between these two tools of divination, so you can feel confident choosing the deck that best fits your journey.

 

Tarot: A Traditional Pathway to Insight

Tarot decks have a long history, dating back to the 15th century. They typically consist of 78 cards, split into two categories: the Major Arcana (think big life lessons and themes) and the Minor Arcana (which represents day-to-day events). Each card has its own set of meanings, and the symbolism across tarot decks is fairly consistent, so once you’ve learned one tarot deck, you can usually navigate others with ease.

Tarot is great if you enjoy structure and the idea of connecting with a universal language. The cards often ask for deeper introspection, nudging you to dig into your intuition and reflect on life's challenges and opportunities.

Best for: Those who love tradition, enjoy a system to guide their readings, or are interested in exploring deep, transformative insights.

 

Oracle: A Free-Spirited Companion

Oracle decks are the wild child of the divination world. There are no rules! The number of cards in an oracle deck can vary—some have 30, others have 100—and each deck's theme is unique to the creator’s vision. While tarot has a set structure, oracle decks offer more creative freedom and can focus on themes like animals, nature, goddesses, self-care, or just about anything.

Oracle readings tend to feel lighter and more fluid than tarot. They're perfect for when you want quick guidance, uplifting affirmations, or a more casual way to connect with your intuition.

Best for: Free spirits, creatives, or anyone looking for daily inspiration or quick answers without needing to dive into a complex system.

 

How to Choose the Deck That’s Right for You

Choosing between tarot and oracle depends on what you’re hoping to get from your practice. Do you want to explore deep themes and life lessons? Tarot might be your best bet. Or do you want an intuitive, flexible deck that gives you guidance without all the structure? Oracle could be the right path.

Of course, you don’t have to choose just one—many readers use both! You can pull a tarot card for deep insight and follow it up with an oracle card for affirmation or extra clarity. It’s all about what feels right for you.

Featured Decks in Our Shop:

Now that you’ve got a feel for the difference between tarot and oracle, here are some of our favorite decks to help you start (or expand) your journey:

For the Absolute Beginner: INQUIRE WITHIN ORACLE DECK
This 53-card deck is hand-illustrated to inspire inner wisdom, growth, and connectedness. Each card offers a meaningful phrase, reminder, word, or prompt designed to provide guidance and comfort in daily life. Rooted in the belief that self-healing begins with deep reflection, this deck invites you to "inquire within" and explore your inner landscape. It’s perfect for anyone seeking gentle support on their journey of self-discovery and healing.

For the Creative: AMULET FRIENDS ORACLE & GUIDEBOOK BOX SET
Created by Philly-based artist Holly Simple, this vibrant, hand-drawn deck is filled with 77 bold, storytelling oracle cards. The colorful palette, inspired by the desert landscapes of Santa Fe and Taos, New Mexico, is brimming with energy and life. The deck offers messages through animals and nature, inviting you to explore themes of healing, power, and personal growth. The set comes with a mini guidebook and workbook, making it a fun and insightful tool for creatives seeking intuitive guidance with a pop of color.

For the Traditionalist: MINI RIDER WAITE TAROT DECK
This timeless 78-card deck is the gold standard in tarot, beloved by beginners and seasoned readers alike. First created in 1909 by Pamela Colman Smith under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite, the Rider-Waite Tarot features rich, symbolic imagery that has set the foundation for countless tarot decks around the world. The compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go readings, and the accompanying booklet includes upright and reversed meanings for each card, making it a great companion for anyone looking to dive into the tradition of tarot.

For the Philly Native: PHILLY TAROT DECK | JAMES BOYLE
A hometown favorite, this 78-card deck offers a Philly-centric twist on the classic tarot. Created by local artist James Boyle, the deck features vibrant, full-color illustrations of iconic Philadelphia landmarks and figures. Recently updated with six new cards and a revised guidebook, this deck is a must-have for anyone who feels a connection to the City of Brotherly Love, blending tarot’s rich symbolism with Philly’s unique cultural charm.

For the Feminist: MOTHERPIECE TAROT DECK
Motherpeace Tarot reimagines traditional tarot through a feminist lens, embracing the goddess spirit and intuitive, circular cards. The deck’s artwork reflects diverse cultures, with Cups, Wands, Discs, and Swords being depicted through the lenses of African, Navajo, and Greco-Roman influences. While feminist at heart, the deck maintains a balance, featuring both male and female figures. Motherpeace’s round cards encourage readers to trust their intuition and break away from traditional interpretations, offering a truly unique tarot experience.