I often get asked how I would teach tarot to a beginner, what Lesson 1 would be, and also how to learn tarot if you are a beginner with no past exposure to tarot.
Recently I had an encounter where I gave my version of Lesson 1 of beginner tarot and I’ve been granted permission to share a transcript of it. Of course, this is paraphrased, but my memory for details is pretty good. I dare say this is a pretty accurate representation of the conversation and discourse that took place. I taught by the Socratic Method, though I wonder if she realized that.
The cards drawn and as identified are the actual cards from the Lesson 1 reading experience. For those who are more familiar with tarot techniques, basically what I did was first have her select her significator card, perform the Opening of the Four Worlds from the First Operation of the Opening of the Key, and then from the card pile she found her significator, draw three cards at random and perform a three-card past, present, and future reading.
If you’re at all curious how I might teach Lesson 1 of Beginner Tarot, here it is, as a downloadable PDF.
benebell wen 
I loved this Bell. You are such a good teacher. I love the deck you used in your article and wish that I had the graphic skills to do something similar. I so enjoy your writing!
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This is lovely. I’m always asked by beginners where to start and there’s never a clear answer. I love how you approached the situation so thoughtfully, and with a clear “lesson” in mind.
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Oh, please write another book!!!
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thanks, this has helped me go deeper into the symbology of the cards, what a beautiful way to teach and use tarot. thanks for another profound sharing. I am so grateful for your perspectives and gifts.
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What deck did you use here? I love the coloring of the cards.
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Me too! Would love to find the deck she used here!
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This is so helpful. Thanks to you and
Beth for sharing it.
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What particular RWS deck is this? I know some symbols were added, but did you round the corners like that?
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Hi Benebell,
I bought your book The Holistic Tarot five years ago, and I enjoy it immensely. This lesson was very thorough, and it helped me see where I am going as well with my own energy. I usually get stuck on the meanings, although I used to read in this very same manner. Thank you for returning me to the basics of Tarot. Don’t overthink – But only have fun! That is when Tarot becomes an extension of the person…wanting to read Tarot intuitively rather than a robot. The intuitive readings are more in-depth…hence more fun and less boring. Your lesson captures what Tarot is and what it is not! I am looking forward to the next lesson. I paid for your book, and it was worth every dime. Thanks for giving back to the collective through these free lessons. It is very much appreciated. 🙏🌤️
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