Without a picture to interpret?

[Illumin]

I was looking at a deck on Taroteca and the minor arcana didn't really have much to it pentacles for example only have an eye in the centre with the corresponding number of pentacles around it. How are you supposed to use a Tarot deck that doesn't really have a picture to interperate on the minor arcana?
I suppose you could cross reference with a book, but it is supposed to have more to do with your interpretation of the picture is it not?

[aranarose]

Some people interpret the Tarot based on the imagery, but not all do. There is a large tradition of interpreting the Tarot based on the traditional meanings of the cards, which don't depend on the pictures at all. You can also interpret them numerologically.

For example, 3 is the number of creation, creativity, fertility. Pentacles are associated with money, working for a living, and physical health. Pair those two things, and you've got an interpretation for the 3 of Pentacles that does not at all depend on pictures.

[Shanti]

It depends on the individual. There are people that can use regular playing cards for their tarot and do fine.
For some its impression of the picture, some just a feeling they have to a card, be it plain or pictured.

Its all up to the individual to find what works for them.

My old Rider Waite Tarot deck is my deck and has been for ages, gosh eons. :weirdsmil
Never saw a need for other decks, especially since their are so many out there now. I found what works and use that.

I have played with others, they didnt ring as well, so the old deck is the master deck. :toofless:

[Illumin]

Thank you for the explanations. :bigredgri

[Morgane]

I combine book meanings with my intuition. I'm not of the belief that you can do it properly by intuition alone.

I would have never started out with unillustrated pips, but find the decks with them quite easy to read with now.

I do find most of the decks with unillustrated pips rather boring to read with, though. The 'book meaning' comes through, but you have to dig a bit deeper for the intuitive part.

My favourite unillustrated pip deck is the Crystal Tarot by Elisabetta Trevisan. The pips are still beautiful enough to evoke an intuitive response.

[LadyCelt]

There are books etc. that explain the meanings of cards and could help. I think vibes of a card could also give insight. I've personally been cautious to get any decks without many pictures for the minor arcana for myself or gifts though.