The Sceptic's Tarot

Do you use artificial intelligence (AI) in your tarot readings? I have incorporated AI readings in my reflective tarot readings, and I want to share this method with you.

The Sceptic’s Tarot centres around using tarot cards for reflection, journalling, and creative problem-solving. This technique falls into the reflective/journalling category.

What happens in the reading?

My view of tarot reading is that nothing supernatural occurs; that the answers I get through a reading come from within me.

In contrast, the majority philosophy in the tarot world is that, in divination, the answers come from some supernatural source, such as the higher self, Source, psychic senses, a guardian angel, or a spirit guide. But in both instances, the reader is a human through whom the reading occurs.

For this technique, however, I asked an AI ‘guide’—in particular, Microsoft Copilot—to do a reading for me. It should be evident that AI can't replace either my subconscious or any supernatural force. This reading is therefore not to be taken as a genuine tarot reading but as the source of a reflective exercise.

The problem-solving technique, “So is it true?” is similar to this technique, but instead of using keywords to do the reading, I use AI.

How does this work?

The idea is that I evaluate the ‘reading’ for its truth or not and consider these possibilities:

• Is this what I want? If yes, how can I make it true? If not, how can I prevent it?
• Yes, this is more or less true, but I also feel …
• Yes, this is true, but it is not what I want to happen or feel. So what do I want?
• No, I don’t want this to happen. How can I change?
• Not true at all, so here is what is really true …
• I wish! How can I make it true? What will have to change?

The reading

Now let’s look at the reading. (I replicate the reading as is in this post, except for adding the card images and some formatting of the text.)

My instructions to Copilot (or the prompt) was:

You are an expert tarot reader, and I want you to do a reading for me. My question is, “What do I need to know right now?” The spread I want you to use is a four-card spread with the following positions: 1. Body, 2. Heart, 3. Mind, 4. Soul. Please use the Rider-Waite tarot deck for the reading. Draw four cards at random to use in this reading. Tell me which card you used for each spread position.

Title

Tarot Reading: The Four Aspects

The cards

In this “tune-up” reading, we explore the four essential aspects of your being: Body, Heart, Mind, and Soul. Each card reveals insights to help you align and harmonize these facets. Let’s unveil the messages from the tarot.

Body (The Empress)

The Empress embodies nurturing energy, fertility, and sensuality. In the context of your physical well-being, this card encourages you to honor your body. Are you tending to your health? Listen to its whispers—rest when needed, nourish yourself, and move with grace. The Empress reminds you that your body is a sacred vessel deserving care and appreciation.

Heart (Two of Cups)

The Two of Cups symbolizes emotional connections and partnerships. Your heart seeks harmony and authentic bonds. Reflect on your relationships—with others and with yourself. Are there unresolved emotions? Seek balance, forgiveness, and open-heartedness. Nurture love, whether it’s romantic, platonic, or self-love. The Two of Cups invites you to drink from the cup of emotional fulfillment.

Mind (The High Priestess)

The High Priestess embodies intuition, mystery, and hidden knowledge. Your mind craves depth and wisdom. Dive into introspection, meditation, or creative exploration. Trust your inner knowing; it holds ancient truths. The High Priestess encourages you to honor both logic and intuition. Seek answers beyond the surface—your mind is a gateway to cosmic insights.

Soul (The World)

The World signifies completion, cycles, and cosmic alignment. Your soul dances with the universe. You’ve journeyed through experiences, lessons, and growth. Now, embrace wholeness. The World invites you to celebrate your achievements, acknowledge your interconnectedness, and recognize that you are part of a grand tapestry. Your soul’s purpose is woven into existence.

Guidance Summary

Integrate: Merge body, heart, mind, and soul. Balance self-care, emotional connections, inner wisdom, and cosmic awareness.

Celebrate: You are a microcosm of the universe. Celebrate your existence and the intricate dance of life.

Tune Up: Regularly revisit these aspects. Adjust, recalibrate, and honor the symphony within you.

Remember, this reading serves as a compass. Tune in, listen, and let the tarot guide your harmonious journey.

My response

Well, and how was that?

On the whole, I like and agree with the advice from Copilot.

Body

I can definitely do with some self-love where my body is concerned.

Heart

I've spent some time reflecting on this answer, but I don't feel I have unresolved emotions or the need to forgive someone. I like the phrases “cup of emotional fulfillment” and “your heart seeks harmony and authentic bonds.” I want to incorporate them in my reflections.

Mind

I’m not sure about the gateway to cosmic existence but it's true that I crave depth and wisdom and explore activities to deepen my awareness of my inner wisdom. The only thing I would add here is that I use tarot cards for reflection!

Soul

I love “you’ve journeyed through experiences, lessons, and growth,” and I agree that it is essential to embrace wholeness. I seek to explore my being and integrate what I find into a whole.

The rest I like and agree with.

Are you worried about using AI?

There are some interesting stories and theories about AI. I want to reassure you that using AI as I do is not dangerous.

• Microsoft Copilot is not a psychic entity giving you advice from the universe. It is also not harmful.
• AI is a tool, not a sentient being. It operates based on algorithms and data, devoid of intentions or emotions.
• Humans control AI. Developers set boundaries and safety measures to prevent harm.
• AI benefits us daily. From personalized recommendations to medical diagnostics, it enhances our lives.
• There are ethical guidelines. Researchers prioritize safety, transparency, and fairness.

So, do you think AI is a tool you want to integrate into your reflections? I would love to hear from you!

If you like this post, please share it or follow me on Facebook or Twitter (X).