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Learn the Petit Lenormand: Card Reading Techniques in 2, 3, and 5 Cards | Complete Guide

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INTRODUCTION

To start this article, I will offer a comparison between Tarot and Petit Lenormand. If you, my readers, are already familiar with tarot, drawing a parallel between these two divination systems will help you quickly grasp the specificities of the Petit Lenormand. We will highlight the main differences, such as the structure of the cards and the interpretation approach.

Next, we will discuss the essential features of the Petit Lenormand, to lay a solid foundation for the following steps.

Then, we will go into detail on how to best learn to use the Petit Lenormand, as one of the fundamental characteristics of this deck is the interpretation by card combination. So, in the second part of this article, we will explore different possible combinations in Lenormand reading, starting with two-card readings, then moving on to three-card readings, and finally to five-card readings.

Throughout this learning process, I will provide concrete examples and practical exercises to strengthen your understanding and confidence in interpreting the Petit Lenormand cards.

NOTE
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This article is part of a series dedicated to learning the Petit Lenormand:
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Differences between Tarot and Petit Lenormand

Differences between Tarot and Petit Lenormand

Tarot and Petit Lenormand differ in three essential aspects:

  • The placement-based spread: In tarot, whether it's the Rider-Waite Smith or the Tarot de Marseille, the spread is often structured by positions. Each card's position has a specific meaning or function, guiding the interpretation. In contrast, Petit Lenormand doesn't follow this rule. While there are methods like the "Grand Tableau," which involves laying out all the cards, there are no pre-defined positions with assigned roles. This offers great freedom in interpretation but can also be challenging for beginners who may feel lost without a structured framework. Naturally, there are no strict rules. You can draw Petit Lenormand with positions, and that's exactly what I do in other articles to show that it's possible. But it's not in the "DNA" of Petit Lenormand to have defined positions.
  • The number of cards in a spread: Tarot spreads generally use a small number of cards, ranging from 3 to 10, sometimes up to 12 for specific spreads like the astrology wheel. In contrast, Petit Lenormand is often used with all 36 cards in a spread called the "Grand Tableau". This method may seem more complex, but it provides a comprehensive view of the querent's situation. Even in smaller spreads, cards are often interpreted in combinations of two or three, creating a different and more contextual dynamic than in tarot.
  • The polarization of cards: Petit Lenormand has highly polarized cards: some are clearly positive (like the Heart, the Ring, the Lily), while others are negative (like the Coffin, the Cross, the Whip), just like in the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot. However, unlike the Rider tarot, where a reading can be strongly influenced by just a few negative cards (e.g., 2 negative cards in a 3-card spread), the "Grand Tableau" of Petit Lenormand, which uses all the cards, naturally balances positive and negative influences.
  • Card symbolism and simplicity: Tarot cards, particularly those of the Rider-Waite Smith deck, are rich in symbols and visual details, offering many possibilities for interpretation. However, this richness can make learning more challenging for beginners. In comparison, Petit Lenormand cards have simpler, more universal symbolism (e.g., the heart, the ring, the child). This makes learning and intuition easier but limits the depth of interpretation of a single card, requiring them to be read in combinations for a more nuanced reading.
  • The direction of cards in modern decks: Traditionally, Petit Lenormand cards do not have a specific direction, unlike the Tarot de Marseille, where the direction of the characters' gazes plays a key role in interpretation. However, in some modern Petit Lenormand decks, the concept of direction has been introduced, with characters and objects oriented to the right or left. While this can bring new possibilities for interpretation, it is a recent innovation that doesn't have consensus among practitioners. Some, like myself, find that this orientation doesn't align with the original spirit of Petit Lenormand, while others appreciate the flexibility it adds to the readings.

In conclusion, whether you're a beginner or advanced, learning to read Petit Lenormand requires both memorization and imagination. The apparent lack of structure and the need to combine cards can be a challenge but also an opportunity to explore a divination method that is both unique and intuitive.

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Petit Lenormand in Practice

Petit Lenormand in Practice

In this section, we will see how to conduct a Petit Lenormand reading in practice. We will notice that, in practice, drawing cards in Petit Lenormand differs significantly from tarot.

Differences in Reading Methods

  • No "mood cut": Unlike tarot, where we often perform a "mood cut" after shuffling the cards (i.e., splitting the deck into two piles and observing the cards at the bottom of each pile to get a general indication), Petit Lenormand doesn't include this practice. In the emblematic Petit Lenormand spread, called the "Grand Tableau," it's the first three cards of the spread (the three cards in the top left) that set the mood and stakes of the reading. Another variation of this spread includes four additional cards placed below the main tableau of 36 cards, reinforcing the general mood. In short, Petit Lenormand doesn't require a "mood cut" like in tarot.
  • Method of drawing the cards: In tarot, cards can be laid out in front of the querent randomly, in a straight line, in an arc, or in a "whirl" shuffle, allowing the querent to pick the cards individually. In Petit Lenormand, particularly for the Grand Tableau, it's traditional to draw the cards one by one from the top of a single deck. The cards aren't spread out for mixing. While this method is commonly used by Petit Lenormand readers, some, including myself, prefer to spread the cards out to draw, even when doing the Grand Tableau. However, it's important to note that the Grand Tableau generally requires a large space, making this method more practical on a clear table.
  • Number of cards drawn: Unlike tarot or some oracle decks, where only two or three cards might be drawn, Petit Lenormand readings typically involve a minimum of nine cards and often all 36 cards for the full Grand Tableau. Nevertheless, a "quick draw" with just 2, 3, or 5 cards is possible, recommended for beginners or quick demonstrations. However, Petit Lenormand was not designed to function exclusively with a small number of cards, as its symbolism is fairly simple and generic, making interpretations richer and more nuanced with a larger number of cards.
  • Nature of Petit Lenormand's answers: Petit Lenormand's answers are often more direct and concrete than those obtained with tarot. This deck is often "straightforward," meaning blunt and explicit, whereas tarot can offer more psychological, spiritual, or existential answers that aren't always concrete. However, the relevance of the answers naturally depends on the question asked and the reader's style. It is still possible to get direct answers with tarot, but Petit Lenormand is particularly suited for providing factual responses.

Summary

The characteristics of Petit Lenormand show that its learning curve is relatively simple compared to tarot, especially due to the generic symbolism of the cards. However, its practical use can prove more demanding, as Petit Lenormand requires great intellectual agility to combine the cards and interpret their meanings creatively and dynamically. Petit Lenormand doesn't have the rich illustrations of the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot or the solid structure of the Tarot de Marseille, requiring the reader to use their imagination to develop complex and nuanced interpretations.

Reading Petit Lenormand with 2, 3 or 5 cards
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The Petit Lenormand and Tarot have different approaches to interpretation, reflecting their distinct structure and symbolism.

In the Petit Lenormand, cards are often interpreted in combinations of 2, 3, or even 5 cards, as they contain simple and direct symbols. Each card is quite concise and gains its full meaning when combined with others, creating nuances in the reading. These combinations allow us to explore dynamic relationships between the cards, revealing deeper layers of interpretation.

On the other hand, Tarot has richer and more complex symbolism, where each card, individually, can tell a complete story. Tarot relies on a visual and spiritual language, and interpreting a single card is often enough to provide clear direction in a reading. However, in more elaborate spreads, Tarot can also be read in combination, but the focus is often on each isolated card.

Thus, the Petit Lenormand functions like a language of combinations, while Tarot unfolds as a more autonomous symbolic system.

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1. Reading with 2 cards

1. Reading with 2 cards
1. Reading with 2 cards

Two cards from the Petit Lenormand can be paired in various ways to interpret their meaning. Here are the 3 main types of two-card combinations:

  • Noun - Adjective: The first card represents a noun, while the second card is an adjective that modifies the noun.
  • Subject - Verb: The first card acts as a subject, and the second card is a verb providing more details to the action.
  • Cause - Effect: The first card indicates a cause, and the second card represents the effect or consequence of that cause.

It's also possible to reverse the order of the cards in the same combination. For example, in the "noun and adjective" combination, the first card could be the adjective, and the second, the noun. This flexibility allows for richer interpretation and encourages the reader to explore different perspectives.

Let's take the first two cards of the Petit Lenormand: the Rider (1) and the Clover (2), and see what interpretations can be imagined:

  • Noun - Adjective:
    - Rider + Clover: "A beneficial message".
    - Clover + Rider: "A surprising chance" or "a stroke of luck".
  • Subject - Verb:
    - Rider + Clover: "An athlete seizing their chance".
    - Clover + Rider: "A message bringing a real opportunity" or "A risk taken that speeds everything up".
  • Cause - Effect:
    - Rider + Clover: "A visit that brings freshness and lightness".
    - Clover + Rider: "The randomness of life reconnecting us with an old acquaintance".

The interpretation of the cards is not limited to these examples. To further enrich your readings, it's essential to use your imagination and explore different associations. Here are some other possible combinations for "Rider + Clover":

  • A happy delivery person
  • A delivery of vegetables
  • A bicycle on the lawn
  • A visitor taking a risk
  • Feedback offering a second chance
  • A horse in a field
  • A playful visitor
  • A prankster traveler
  • The arrival of an opportunity
  • Quick action to seize a chance
  • Being athletic and lucky
  • Delivering a winning situation

These examples show the variety of possible interpretations with just two cards. Each reader can bring their own perspective, depending on their intuition and knowledge of the cards. It's important to practice and experiment with different combinations to develop a deeper and more personal understanding of the Petit Lenormand.

Connection between Petit Lenormand and personal development

Interpreting Petit Lenormand card combinations can become a powerful tool for personal development. Each reading is not only about predicting future events or describing current situations, but it can also be used as an invitation to reflect more deeply on one's life, choices, and aspirations. For example, the combination "Rider + Clover" could symbolize an unexpected opportunity that requires boldness or risk-taking. By asking questions like "Am I ready to seize this chance?", "What are the obstacles preventing me from moving forward?", or "How can I be more open to opportunities that arise?", the reader can use these cards to explore their fears, motivations, and goals. This type of reflection helps to better understand one's own behaviors, gain clarity on decisions to be made, and move forward more confidently on the path to self-realization. By integrating this introspective dimension, studying the Petit Lenormand becomes a true inner journey, facilitating alignment with one's deep desires and promoting personal growth. I say all this, which may seem obvious, but in truth, the Petit Lenormand is often seen as a predictive tool, in contrast to a so-called "psychological" or "introspective" tarot. However, the Petit Lenormand is perfectly equipped to take you and guide you into your inner self.

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2. Reading with 3 cards

2. Reading with 3 cards
2. Reading with 3 cards
2. Reading with 3 cards

After exploring two-card combinations, let's move on to interpreting three-card readings. There are three possible types of combinations for reading three cards:

  • Noun - Adjective 1 - Adjective 2: In this approach, the first card is interpreted as a noun, while the next two cards are adjectives describing the noun.
  • Subject - Verb - Object: This combination uses the first card as a subject, the second as a verb, and the third as an object.
  • Subject 1 - Link - Subject 2: Here, the first card represents a subject, the second card describes the link between the first subject and a second, represented by the third card.

Let's take an example to illustrate these combinations with three cards: the Rider, the Clover, and the Ship.

  • Noun - Adjective 1 - Adjective 2:
    - Rider-Clover-Ship: A young man who is lucky and adventurous.
    - Clover-Rider-Ship: A surprising and bold risk.
    - Ship-Clover-Rider: A smooth and dynamic change.
  • Subject - Verb - Object:
    - Rider-Clover-Ship: A cyclist seizes the opportunity to change bikes.
    - Clover-Ship-Rider: The gains are transferred by the winner.
    - Ship-Rider-Clover: A stranger travels in first class.
  • Subject 1 - Link - Subject 2:
    - Rider-Ship-Clover: the visit / is delayed / the opportunity.
    - Ship-Clover-Rider: the vehicle / is faster than expected / the delivery.
    - Clover-Rider-Ship: the blessing / is given to the knight / the quest.

Context and Flexibility in Interpretations

It is important to note that card interpretation is always influenced by the context of the question asked and the specific situation of the querent. For example, depending on the question and the cards drawn, one could choose one of the cards as the main subject of interpretation (known as the Significator). Let's examine three questions to illustrate this:

  • "Will the train arrive on time?"
    In this context, we can consider that the Ship card represents the subject (the train) = The train (ship) will arrive on time (rider) and probably even early (clover).
  • "Should I play the lottery this week?"
    Here, the Clover card is the subject (lottery luck) = The lottery luck (clover) is likely to fade (ship) despite some good numbers (rider).
  • "Will I receive a positive response to my job interview?"
    For this question, the Rider card can be interpreted as the subject (the response) = The response (rider) will be positive (clover) but will require relocation (ship).

Exercise suggestion to practice combinations

To improve your agility in interpreting card combinations, I suggest a practical exercise applicable to both two-card and three-card spreads. Shuffle the Petit Lenormand cards, then divide them into two or three piles depending on whether you want to practice two or three-card combinations. Next, draw one card from each pile and turn them over to create a random combination. Interpret the cards using the reading methods we've previously seen (noun/adjective, subject/verb, etc.).

This exercise is essential for avoiding feeling stuck during a reading. It helps develop your imagination and your ability to quickly combine cards in a relevant and intuitive way. Indeed, during a reading, whether done professionally or with friends, you won't have time to think deeply about all the possible combinations. You must be able to quickly find the most relevant meanings to provide clear and precise answers to the querent.

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3. Creating sentences with 5 cards

3. Creating sentences with 5 cards
3. Creating sentences with 5 cards
3. Creating sentences with 5 cards
3. Creating sentences with 5 cards
3. Creating sentences with 5 cards

In this last part, we will explore the interpretation of five-card combinations, which allows you to construct more complex and nuanced sentences. Reading the cards one by one in the order they are drawn is probably one of the most intuitive ways to interpret the Petit Lenormand. Using five cards offers a wide variety of interpretations and makes it easier to stimulate your imagination than with just 2 or 3 cards.

Depending on the context of the question asked and the order of the cards drawn, interpretations can vary significantly. Here are a few examples of possible interpretations:

  • Is my project to open a restaurant viable?
    Cards drawn: Key, Mice, Heart, Mountain, Fish.
    Interpretation: The viability of the project is conditioned (Key) by the need to save money (Mice), which, though valuable (Heart), will help you overcome (Mountain) obstacles related to a lack of funding or resources (Fish).
  • Should I train as a hairdresser or in beauty therapy?
    Cards drawn: Fox, Snake, Rider, Letter, House.
    Interpretation: You need to avoid (Fox) getting trapped by this complex dilemma (Snake) that is troubling you, and instead, go in search (Rider) of a clear and wise answer (Letter) from trusted people like your parents (House).
  • To travel to Scotland, should I go by plane or by car?
    Cards drawn: Woman, Dog, Star, Stork, Clover.
    Interpretation: Follow your instinct (Woman) that guides you (Dog) toward an air journey (Stork) under a lucky star (Star), and everything will go well (Clover).

Exercise suggestion for practicing five-card combinations

To master reading five-card combinations, I suggest an exercise that will deepen your understanding and develop your intuition. Here's how to proceed:

  • Shuffle all the Petit Lenormand cards to form a single deck.
  • Draw five cards, one by one, and place them face up on the table.
  • Interpret these five cards together to answer a given question (I provide a pre-defined list below).
  • Draw five new cards, and place them on top of the first five. Repeat the exercise, interpreting this new combination of cards for the same question.

This exercise is essential for learning to quickly connect the cards and build coherent sentences that give meaning to the answer. It helps develop not only creativity but also the intellectual agility needed for a smooth and intuitive reading during consultations.

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Questions for 2, 3, 5-card reading exercises

Here is a list of 20 questions to ask yourself to practice reading card combinations (2, 3, or 5 cards). These questions cover a variety of areas to stimulate imagination and encourage different interpretations:

  • Will I get this promotion in the next three months?
  • Should I accept the job offer I received this week?
  • Is it better to sell my house this year?
  • Should I plan my trip to Paris or London this fall?
  • Will my partner propose to me before the end of the year?
  • Should I invest in buying this used car?
  • Will I succeed in losing the 5 kilos I want by summer?
  • Will I receive a positive response to my internship application?
  • Should I move to this new city for my job?
  • Will I get financial support for my entrepreneurial project?
  • Will my cat recover quickly from its illness?
  • Should I start a distance learning program this year?
  • Will I meet someone special during my trip in June?
  • Should I accept the invitation to this networking event?
  • Will I finish my book project before the end of the year?
  • Will my mortgage loan application be approved?
  • Is it wise to renew my gym membership?
  • Should I hire a lawyer to resolve this family conflict?
  • Will I pass my driving test next week?
  • Will this new health routine improve my sleep?
CONCLUSION

Learning the Petit Lenormand, like any divination tool, requires patience and practice. To quickly progress in mastering these cards, it is essential to adopt certain habits:

  • Regular practice: Dedicate time every day to reading the cards. The more you familiarize yourself with their meanings and combinations, the more comfortable you will become in interpreting readings.
  • Vary the exercises: Work with combinations of 2, 3, or 5 cards for different questions. For example, don’t just test combinations with only 2 cards. This will enrich your understanding and help you see the nuances in interpretations.
  • Use practical exercises like the ones above: Do practical exercises, like those suggested in this article, to strengthen your ability to read cards in combinations of two, three, or five cards. This hands-on work will help you develop your intuition and agility in quickly reading the cards.
  • Develop your imagination: Let your imagination run wild when interpreting the cards. Don’t hesitate to explore even bizarre meanings to see how they ultimately manifest. Trust your intuition.

By applying these principles, you will quickly advance in your learning of the Petit Lenormand, becoming more confident and accurate in your readings. To further improve your mastery, I invite you to read my next article, where we will explore in depth the "Houses" of the Petit Lenormand and their influence on your readings.

[✊ Learn Petit Lenormand : The Houses (2/7) ! ✊]

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