Today’s question: How are oracle and tarot different?

If you’ve ever wandered into a witchy bookstore or scrolled through spiritual corners of the internet, you’ve probably noticed there are so many types of decks out there. Tarot, oracle, affirmation, runes, hybrids—you name it. And one of the most common questions I get is: “What’s the difference between tarot and oracle cards?” In this episode, I’ll unpack how tarot and oracle cards differ, what makes each unique, and why you don’t have to choose between them.

Tarot’s Structure vs. Oracle’s FreedomTarot is built on a fixed system: 78 cards, divided into the Major Arcana (22 archetypes) and Minor Arcana (four suits, each Ace through 10 plus court cards). This structure creates a shared language across decks, making it great for learning patterns, spreads, and archetypal themes.

Oracle, by contrast, is entirely freeform. Decks can have 39 cards, 44 cards, 60 cards—whatever the creator decides. Each oracle deck carries its own rules, symbolism, and design. That freedom allows for creativity, thematic depth, and fresh perspectives.

Tarot is a system with structure. That consistency is why tarot is so widely taught, written about, and recognizable. I often describe tarot as a map—a framework you can return to again and again to navigate your inner landscape, archetypes, and life lessons.

Oracle decks are the free-spirited cousins of tarot. That freedom allows oracle decks to be wildly diverse.  I would describe oracle as more of a conversation starter. It opens the space for intuition, creativity, and journaling without needing to memorize a system.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to choose. Tarot and oracle complement each other beautifully.

• Use Tarot when you want structure, archetypes, spreads, or deep study.

• Use Oracle when you want a quick hit of inspiration, journaling prompts, or a deck that speaks directly to a specific theme in your life.

• Use Both when you want tarot’s clarity and oracle’s creative voice in the same reading.

💭 Today's Tarot Pull:

• Wild Kuan Yin Oracle: The Velvet Goddess Edition

• The Citadel: A Fantasy Oracle

• It’s Grow Time deck

• Norse Goddess Rune Oracle
  

1. Play & Joy - learning to manifest through pleasure

2. Boundaries & Renewal - tending to your own city first

3. Connection & Reflection - asking for feedback and allowing yourself to be seen

4. Community & Collective Consciousness - weaving your unique thread into the whole

Reflective prompts on this card:

• Where could I invite more play into my rituals or daily practice?

• What boundaries would protect and replenish my energy right now?

• Who might I reconnect with for reflection, feedback, or support?

• What unique thread am I weaving into my community’s tapestry?

Ways to Connect & Support

• 12 week Tarot for Transformation Live Course: Deep dive the Major Arcana with me. Sign up by the end of today September 12th get 25% off with code Early Bird.

• Tarot Card Creation Workshop: Get the workshop and PDF walk through for $33.⁠ Purchase now!⁠

• Patreon: For individual readings, and behind-the-scenes peeks, join the⁠ Every Day Tarot Patreon family⁠.

• Newsletter: Get my⁠ FREE 2025 5-Card Tarot Spread PDF⁠ + magic straight to your inbox.

• Check out my ⁠Let’s Talk Tarot Meetup group⁠. Come chat with other tarot enthusiasts, bring your favorite decks and play with tarot and oracle decks with us!

• If you’re interested in celebrating the Full Moon I will be holding Full Moon Womxn’s Circles for the rest of 2025. Join my colleague, Izzy, and I under the glow of the full moon for an evening of connection, reflection, and ritual. Upcoming dates: 10/5, 11/2, and 12/7.

• Book a Consultation: I’m a sex & relationships therapist and coach working virtually from my home office. Let’s see if we’re a fit:⁠ camilleasaunders.com