Newbie here, do I have to learn on Rider waite?

I learned on the Celtic Dragon Tarot, which were these huge massive cards. Actually I used Hanson Roberts for a long time which was a mini deck. I finally got a Rider Waite many years later and it is now my main deck. Am even considering buying a second at a different size factor. If it's necessary for you at some point to get that deck, you will find your way to it on your own, I think. I resonate well with the RWS. The Hanson Roberts didn't feel as transparent for me but I used it for many years reading myself and others without any problems as it was my primary deck.

CharlotteK said:

I DID learn on a Rider Waite, because that's what I assumed was best, but I've since spoken to people who started with Thoth, and I read an article recently strongly advocating beginners start with Tarot de Marseille! I am finding moving to Thoth and TdM quite difficult having burned the RWS meanings into my brain and I have questioned if I would have fared better starting with something else and acquiring RWS learning later. But I don't know if that's answerable. I agree with others who say start with the deck you feel most drawn to.

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I can relate to that. It's a bit tricky at first when reading non-illustrated pips to 'forget' about the Rider Waite pictures; for instance, to see the three of swords and instantly just think about the RW three of swords, with its rather blatant imagery! But you get used to it in time.

I think for a newbie, as everyone's basically said, just go for what appeals to you, but to be aware that the 'RWS language' is considered 'the default setting' for many people. Also this means that many of the modern instructional books about Tarot are based on the RW, so that's something to bear in mind, you may have to search around for books that specialise in other systems, but they are out there.

Edward Tarot Hands said:

I don't own a RWS as such, I use The Morgan Greer which some may say is a clone of the RWS and yes while it does share most of it's symbolism there are many differences especially the style of the pictures and the colours. I wasn't very inspired by the RWS images either.
Have a look at The Morgan Greer, bright colourful but with multiple layers if you're willing to do some research.
Whatever you go with have fun!

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I have looked at the morgan greer for exactly those reasons! I also like how close up it all is. I've been thinking about getting the pocket deck or something of it.

I do have a Quick and Easy deck, with the pics of the rider waite on it, so I do have that. I find it so off putting though all the writing, like learning it by the book. I do love looking at the pictures on it though so I keep pulling it out and having some time with it.

So i'm hoping all the learning will at some point fuse together.

GlamGemini said:

I have looked at the morgan greer for exactly those reasons! I also like how close up it all is. I've been thinking about getting the pocket deck or something of it.

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The Morgan Greer pocket size in the tin is my travel deck and it goes everywhere with me. RWS based, but has its own personality and I find it a very clear and straightforward reading deck. A really nice deck to have.


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I didn't own a Waite-Smith deck from 1971 to 2011, working exclusively with the Thoth, which isn't an "RWS clone" like many decks. Just be aware that many of those other decks are RWS clones, so if you're going to use one. you might as well own the original as well just to see where the source lies.

The deck I first truly delved into, the one I truly cut my teeth on, is the Thoth Tarot. It was highly instructive, enlightening, and very fruitful, so of course I never regretted it. I think you do not have to start with the RWS. But if you're the type who learns better by reading books, it might serve you better if you choose a deck with a detailed companion book at least. It's not a requirement for everyone though, and perhaps an LWB and healthy loads of intuition would be enough for you.

I began with Marseille, but after a few years was gifted the RWS clone, Aquarian, which I found to be a relief and a release after the Marseille (which was very instructive, but I personally do not like). It (Aquarian) was also pretty to my eyes; like Rodney, I found the original RWS - fugly. Muddy. And never liked Thoth decks.

Now, I own over 45 RWS based decks (for the most part) and I like the rich variety of them. Many take very fresh looks at the system. The illustrations vary greatly from deck to deck, so it has been an education just to have such variety.

I do think though that it was a really valuable asset to learn from the opaque Marseilles, and the early RWS clones. To bend the rules, you must first learn them my base served me well, and I can read so capably now, regardless of deck or method used.

I do agree though that yes, while you should have an understanding of the 3 basic and different systems out there, to some degree, you should still allow yourself to gravitate to those decks you connect most strongly with. After all, not everyone speaks the same language. If you find a deck that speaks *your* language, it's a keeper!

GlamGemini said:

I have looked at the morgan greer for exactly those reasons! I also like how close up it all is. I've been thinking about getting the pocket deck or something of it.

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MG is a perfect 1st deck choice.

I'd say go with whatever deck catches and holds your attention.

If you're inspired to learn, in whatever fashion, isn't that the point?

The experiences of others here seem to indicate that it will just be the beginning of a journey, through many other decks, so why not get off to a good start?