Tarot Myths Busted: Do You Really Have to Be Gifted a Tarot Deck?

So, you’re thinking about getting your first tarot deck, and then someone tells you:

"You can’t buy your own tarot deck! It has to be gifted to you, or it won’t work."

And now, you’re stuck wondering… Is that true? Or is this just another weird superstition?

Let’s bust this myth once and for all.

🚨 Myth: You Must Be Gifted a Tarot Deck

This belief comes from an old superstition that says buying your own deck will “curse” it or make it ineffective. Some say it’s because tarot is a sacred practice, and you’re supposed to “earn” your deck. Others claim that a gifted deck is more powerful.

💡 Reality Check: There is zero historical evidence to support this idea. Like, none. Tarot cards don’t come with a built-in “only works if gifted” setting.

🔮 Fact: Most Tarot Readers Bought Their Own Decks

Ask any professional tarot reader where they got their first deck, and 9 out of 10 will say:

"I bought it myself."

And guess what? Their readings work just fine. Because what really matters isn’t how you got your deck—it’s how you connect with it.

🃏 Why This Myth Probably Started

So, if it’s not true, where did this belief come from? A few theories:

1️⃣ Gatekeeping: Some believe that tarot is a “sacred” gift that must be passed down, but in reality, anyone can learn tarot.
2️⃣ Mystique Factor: Let’s be honest—“a mysterious stranger gifted me my first deck” does sound cooler than “I ordered it on Amazon.”
3️⃣ Tradition from Older Generations: Back in the day, decks weren’t as easy to find, so they were often shared or passed down.

✨ The Truth: Your Energy Is What Matters

Your intention, intuition, and connection with your deck are what make tarot work—not whether it was a gift.

What to Do If You Buy Your Own Deck:

✅ Pick one that you feel drawn to.
✅ Cleanse it with incense, crystals, or intention (just for good energy).
✅ Spend time shuffling and bonding with it.

🎴 Final Verdict: Buy the Damn Deck

If you’re waiting for someone to gift you a deck, you might be waiting forever. So, if a deck calls to you, just buy it. Your tarot journey is yours to start—no permission needed.

💬 Have you ever heard this myth before? Did you buy your own deck or wait for a gift?