Epistemological Justification of Tarot Reading

Abstract

This research article examines the epistemological justification of Tarot reading. It is qualitative research that examines documents related to epistemological theories and Tarot card reading, as well as conducts in-depth interviews with 20 informants, divided into 10 Tarot card readers and 10 clients of reading, using in-depth interviews. The collected data was analyzed within an epistemological justification framework.

The study found that tarot reading is a form of divination based on belief and personal experience through the process of interpreting cards. The application of epistemological justification in tarot reading results in truth judgments in different dimensions, including the theory of Correspondence, where truth is determined by interpretations that match actual events or the situation of the client; the theory of Coherence, where truth is judged by interpretations that align with other beliefs or experiences of the client; and the theory of Pragmatism, where truth is judged based on the outcomes or actions that occur. Additionally, the application of justification theories in card interpretation includes Foundationalism, which emphasizes having a clear and reliable knowledge base about the symbols and meanings of the tarot cards, and Coherentism, which focuses on evaluating the consistency of various beliefs to create coherence between the symbols on the cards and the client's life experiences, beliefs, and current situation. The findings suggest that applying these principles can enhance the flexibility and ability to refine primary and clarify card interpretations, thereby increasing the likelihood of producing coherent and epistemologically justified readings.