Lesson 11: Combining Tarot and Astrology
Tarot and astrology are two of the most popular tools for self-reflection, insight, and decision-making. But what really happens when you bring them together? If you’ve ever wondered why “The Empress” card seems to show up whenever you’re feeling your inner Taurus, or why Mercury retrograde throws your readings off, you’re not alone. This guide will break down the essentials of combining tarot and astrology, focusing on how zodiac signs influence tarot readings—and how you can use this blend in a practical, time-saving way.
Why Combine Tarot and Astrology?
You don’t need to become a full-time mystic to get value from these systems. Both tarot and astrology are frameworks for understanding patterns—inside and out. Tarot offers visual stories and archetypes; astrology gives you a cosmic clock and symbolic language. When you use them together, you get more context, more nuance, and—let’s be honest—a lot more “aha!” moments.
“I used to pull the Queen of Swords and wonder if it meant ‘get a haircut’ or ‘stop overthinking.’ When I learned she’s linked to Libra, it made so much more sense—I needed more balance in my communication.”
Case Study: The Zodiac’s Impact on a Tarot Spread
Let’s say you’re doing a three-card reading about career. You pull:
- The Emperor
- The Lovers
- Knight of Cups
If you add astrology, The Emperor aligns with Aries (leadership, action), The Lovers with Gemini (choices, communication), and the Knight of Cups with Pisces (intuition, emotional flow). Suddenly, your advice isn’t just “be decisive” but “tap into your Aries drive, balance Gemini-level decision-making, and stay open to Piscean intuition.” It’s more specific, more actionable.
How Zodiac Signs Influence Tarot Cards
Each tarot card (especially the Major Arcana and court cards) resonates with astrological signs or planets. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Major Arcana & Zodiac Correspondence
| Name | Zodiac/Planet | Key Theme |
|---|---|---|
| The Emperor | Aries | Authority, initiative, structure |
| The Lovers | Gemini | Choice, relationships, duality |
| The Chariot | Cancer | Willpower, direction, emotion |
| Strength | Leo | Courage, confidence, heart |
| The Hermit | Virgo | Introspection, analysis, solitude |
| Justice | Libra | Balance, fairness, decisions |
| Death | Scorpio | Transformation, endings, renewal |
| Temperance | Sagittarius | Harmony, integration, moderation |
| The Devil | Capricorn | Materialism, restriction, ambition |
| The Star | Aquarius | Hope, inspiration, innovation |
| The Moon | Pisces | Intuition, dreams, the subconscious |
Tip: Not every deck follows these exact correspondences, but most modern decks stick close. Check your guidebook or look up specifics for your favorite deck.
How to Add Astrology to Your Tarot Practice in 15 Minutes
Here’s a quick routine for layering astrology into your next tarot reading—without needing a PhD in either.
- Know Your Sun Sign: Start with your (or your querent’s) Sun sign. Note its element (fire, earth, air, water) and mode (cardinal, fixed, mutable).
- Pick a Spread: Try a simple three-card spread—Past, Present, Future works well.
- Assign Zodiac Energy: As you reveal each card, check if its meaning or imagery links to a zodiac sign (see table above).
- Connect the Dots: Ask how the card’s energy relates to your sign’s current challenges or strengths. For example, if you’re a Virgo and pull The Hermit, it’s a double-sign to embrace solitude and analysis.
- Set an Intention: Use the combined insight to set a micro-goal for the week. (Example: “I’ll channel my inner Leo and actually speak up in Monday’s meeting.”)
Quick Checklist: What You Need
- Your favorite tarot deck (Check price on Amazon)
- Notebook or journal (See today’s deal)
- Zodiac reference chart (can print or screenshot the table above)
- 15 minutes of quiet (bonus: add a playlist like this calming one for mood)
Product Roundup: Best Tarot Decks with Astrological Themes
| Name | Key Feature | Size/Material | Price Range | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Numinous Tarot | Modern, inclusive art; astrological symbols | Standard, 330gsm card stock | $$ | Check price |
| Astro-Tarot Oracle | Dedicated astrology-tarot hybrid | Oracle size, glossy finish | $$ | See today’s deal |
| Cosmic Slumber Tarot | Dreamy art, zodiac cues | Standard, matte card | $$ | Check price |
- Pros: These decks make astrological links visual and easy; good for learning.
- Cons: Some are less traditional, so may not suit every reader.
- Best for: Beginners curious about astrology, or anyone who likes extra symbolism in their readings.
Tools & Resources for Deeper Practice
- Astro.com – Free natal charts, transits, and zodiac info
- Labyrinthos Tarot Astrology Guide – Accessible breakdown of card-sign correspondences
- Tarot and Astrology: Enhance Your Readings With the Wisdom of the Zodiac – Book by Corrine Kenner
- Cafe Astrology – Easy-to-read horoscopes and sign traits
Real Talk: Is Combining Tarot and Astrology for You?
Mixing tarot and astrology isn’t about “predicting the future” with 100% accuracy. It’s about seeing connections—in yourself, your patterns, and your potential. Even if you’re a skeptic, the act of reflecting on both cards and signs can help you clarify your goals or spot blocks.
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, pull just one card and ask, “How can my Sun sign energy help me with today’s challenge?” Write down a single sentence answer. Done.
Summary Checklist: Your 15-Minute Combo Routine
- Identify your zodiac sign’s traits and current life area
- Shuffle and pull one to three tarot cards
- Check for astrological correspondences
- Note overlaps, tensions, or “double messages”
- Set one clear action based on those insights
Remember: You don’t have to “believe” in astrology or tarot for them to be useful frameworks for thinking differently or making intentional choices.
Some links in this post may be affiliate. You pay the same price, and this blog may earn a small commission to support more guides like this.
