Debunking the Misconceptions & Reclaiming Ancestral Wisdom

When it comes to tarot, many of us have heard the warnings: “It’s evil,” “It’s witchcraft,” or “You’ll invite negative spirits.” These tarot myths have been passed down for generations, often accompanied by fear, misinformation, and misunderstandings. But as I’ve delved deeper into my spiritual journey, I’ve discovered that tarot is far more than the dark, dangerous tool many would have us believe. In fact, tarot has been a sacred practice used by Black people—especially Black women—for decades, if not centuries, to tap into their ancestral power and divine feminine energy. ✨

Let’s uncover the truth behind these tarot myths and explore how we, as Melanated Goddesses, can reclaim this powerful practice as a tool for healing, guidance, and self-discovery.

Tarot Myth #1: Tarot Is Evil or Demonic

This is one of the most common tarot myths that has been perpetuated, often by traditional religious communities. Many people associate tarot with witchcraft or devil worship, believing that using the cards will attract negative spirits or bring harm.

The Truth: Tarot is simply a tool, just like a candle, a book, or a pen. It’s a set of cards with symbolic images that can help us tap into our intuition and gain insights into our lives. It’s not inherently evil or demonic; it’s all about the intention behind how you use it. In fact, many people use tarot as a way to connect with their higher selves, ancestors, or spirit guides, which can be a deeply spiritual and enlightening experience.

Tarot Myth #2: Only ‘Psychics’ Can Use Tarot Cards

Another popular misconception is that you need to be a psychic, medium, or someone with “special powers” to read tarot cards accurately. This idea can be intimidating and often stops people from even trying to use tarot.

The Truth: You do not need to be psychic to read tarot! Tarot is a tool for everyone, regardless of experience or innate abilities. The beauty of tarot is that it can help anyone connect with their inner wisdom, intuition, and subconscious mind. Many Black women find that as they work with tarot, they naturally begin to strengthen their intuition and connect more deeply with their spiritual gifts.

Tarot Myth #3: Tarot Tells Your Future

The idea that tarot is a fortune-telling tool that predicts your future is another common tarot myth. People often think that a tarot reading will tell them exactly what’s going to happen next, and if the cards show something negative, they believe they are doomed to that fate.

The Truth: Tarot is not about predicting the future—it’s about gaining insight into your present situation, understanding your options, and exploring possible outcomes. The cards can provide guidance and clarity, but they don’t dictate what will happen. You always have the power to change your path based on the choices you make. Tarot is a mirror that reflects back what’s happening in your life, allowing you to make more empowered decisions.

Tarot Myth #4: You Need to Be an Expert to Understand Tarot

Many people shy away from tarot because they believe it’s too complicated or that they need to know every single card’s meaning before they can start using it effectively.

The Truth: While there are 78 cards in a tarot deck, and each card has its own symbolism and meaning, you don’t need to be an expert to begin using tarot. Trust your intuition and let the images, colors, and feelings you get from the cards guide you. It’s perfectly okay to look up meanings as you go, and over time, you’ll start to form your own relationship with the cards. The more you work with them, the more you’ll connect with their energy.

Tarot Myth #5: Tarot Is Only for ‘New Age’ Practices

This tarot myth often comes from the belief that tarot is a trendy or modern practice that only fits within New Age spirituality. This misconception can make some Black women feel that tarot doesn’t belong in their spiritual practice or ancestral traditions.

The Truth: Tarot has deep roots in many cultures and has been used by Black people, particularly Black women, for generations as a way to access spiritual guidance and connect with their ancestors. Tarot is a tool that can be adapted to any belief system or spiritual path. As Black women, reclaiming tarot as a part of our spiritual journey is a way to honor the wisdom and strength of our foremothers who used intuitive practices to navigate life.

Reclaiming Tarot as a Tool for Your Spiritual Journey

It’s time to leave behind these tarot myths and embrace tarot as a tool for empowerment, healing, and self-discovery. As Black women, we have a rich history of tapping into our intuition, listening to our ancestors, and using spiritual tools to guide us on our journey. Tarot is just one more way to connect with that power.

When you choose to work with tarot, you’re choosing to engage in a sacred practice that allows you to:

• Gain clarity on your life’s path and purpose
• Deepen your connection with your intuition and inner wisdom
• Receive guidance from your higher self and ancestors
• Heal emotional wounds and release limiting beliefs

Interested in Learning More About Tarot?

If you’re curious about how tarot can support your spiritual journey, be sure to check out our Monthly Goddess Gatherings where we explore tools like tarot, crystals, meditation, and more to help you tap into your divine feminine energy. You can also request your own virtual reading today.

Remember, the power of tarot lies not in the cards themselves but in your intention, intuition, and willingness to embrace your true self. So, Goddess, the next time you hear someone mention one of these tarot myths, smile and know that you’re reclaiming a powerful tool that’s always been a part of our heritage.