Quick answer
The three main tarot systems are Rider-Waite-Smith (illustrated, beginner-friendly, the modern standard), Marseille (older, pip-based Minor Arcana that relies on numerology and suit), and Thoth (Crowley's esoteric deck rich in astrology and Kabbalah). Beginners should start with Rider-Waite-Smith.
Rider-Waite-Smith — the modern standard
Created in 1909, the RWS deck introduced fully illustrated Minor Arcana, making each card readable from its scene. It is the system most books and courses use, which makes it the easiest entry point and the reference this site follows.
Marseille — the older, symbolic tradition
The Tarot de Marseille predates RWS by centuries. Its Minor Arcana are 'pip' cards — arrangements of suit symbols rather than scenes — so reading relies more on numerology, suit meaning, and intuition. It rewards study but is harder for absolute beginners.
Thoth — the esoteric deck
Designed by Aleister Crowley and painted by Lady Frieda Harris, the Thoth deck is dense with astrological, Kabbalistic, and alchemical symbolism. It is powerful and layered, but its complexity makes it a deck most readers grow into rather than start with.
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