Is tarot related to astrology?

When exploring the world of divination and self-discovery, two systems often stand out: tarot and astrology. While each has its own history, symbols, and methods, many wonder if they are connected—or even if they can be used together. The answer is both simple and fascinating: yes, tarot and astrology are related, and their connection can deepen the meaning of both practices.

Different tools, similar goals

Tarot and astrology are distinct systems. Tarot is a deck of 78 cards used to explore questions, emotions, and life paths. Astrology, on the other hand, is the study of the stars, planets, and celestial patterns at the time of a person’s birth—or in a given moment. However, both systems are rooted in the idea that the universe is meaningful and that symbolic language can help us understand ourselves and the world.

Both tarot and astrology aim to provide insight, guidance, and perspective. They don’t claim to control the future but help us reflect on our choices, emotions, and inner truths. This shared purpose makes them powerful allies when used together.

Astrological symbols in the tarot

One of the clearest connections between the two systems lies in the tarot’s symbolism. Many of the 78 tarot cards include subtle or direct references to astrological signs, planets, or elements.

For example:

The Emperor card is associated with Aries, symbolizing leadership, action, and assertiveness.
The Moon card reflects the astrological Moon, suggesting intuition, dreams, and emotions.
The Star card is connected to Aquarius, representing hope, renewal, and visionary energy.
The Wheel of Fortune has ties to Jupiter, the planet of expansion, fate, and opportunity.

These associations aren’t random. They are part of a long tradition of mystics and scholars linking the tarot’s archetypes with the energies found in astrology.

Minor Arcana and the four elements

The four suits in the Minor Arcana of the tarot—Cups, Swords, Wands, and Pentacles—are also linked to the four classical elements used in astrology.

Cups relate to Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) and represent emotions and intuition.
Swords relate to Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) and represent thoughts, ideas, and conflict.
Wands relate to Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) and represent passion, energy, and creativity.
Pentacles relate to Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) and represent material life, work, and stability.

These elemental connections give additional layers of meaning to tarot readings and allow for a richer understanding when blended with an astrological perspective.

Using tarot and astrology together

Some readers combine astrology and tarot in powerful ways. For instance, someone might pull a tarot card to clarify the meaning of a current planetary transit. Or they may explore how a new moon in Scorpio is influencing their life and use the tarot to ask how best to work with that energy.

Others use astrology to time their readings—choosing specific dates when certain energies are strong, such as during a Mercury retrograde, a full moon, or a Venus transit. Tarot then becomes a mirror to reflect what those cosmic forces are stirring within the person.

Do you need astrology to read tarot?

Absolutely not. Tarot is a complete system on its own and does not require astrological knowledge. However, if you are familiar with astrology, it can add depth and nuance to your readings. Recognizing that a card is tied to a particular sign or planet can help you understand its message more clearly—especially if you’re reading during a relevant astrological transit.

Similarly, astrology can benefit from the intuitive language of tarot. If a birth chart reveals a challenging aspect, a tarot spread might offer emotional or spiritual insight that brings healing or perspective.

The power of combining both

When you bring tarot and astrology together, you invite both the sky and the soul into the conversation. Astrology gives structure and timing—it shows us the larger cycles we’re moving through. Tarot offers emotion, intuition, and personal meaning—it shows us how those cycles are playing out within us.

Both systems are ancient, symbolic, and deeply personal. Used together, they don’t cancel each other out but rather complement one another like two lenses that bring the bigger picture into focus.

Tarot and astrology are two different languages of the same intuitive world. While they stand alone as tools of insight, their relationship is undeniable—and when used together, they can create a rich, multi-dimensional experience. Whether you’re drawn to the stars, the cards, or both, trust that you’re exploring meaningful pathways toward self-discovery and wisdom.