Tarot
The Tarot is a tool for self-understanding and personal development. A Tarot reading is based on the Jungian principle of synchronicity, that is our thoughts attract and form events in our lives. It is a language of symbols, with each symbol having multiple meanings. A full deck consists of seventy-eight cards. The twenty-two Major Arcana throw light on life’s main passages, the forty Minor Arcana highlight daily events and the sixteen court cards represent people (ourselves and others). An experienced Tarot reading empowers the querent to make informed choices about life’s challenges, giving guidance rather than being a fortune-telling device.
The Rider-Waite Tarot.
The Rider-Waite Tarot deck is the most popular deck currently available and for a good reason, as the deck is user-friendly with clear illustrations. It was first published in 1910 under the supervision of Arthur Waite, a member of the Order of the Golden Dawn. He regarded the true Tarot to be symbolism and Pamela Colman Smith, who was also a member, illustrated all 78 cards. The innovation of illustrating the Minor Arcana made it widely available to all.
The Radiant Rider-Waite deck is a recoloured version of the original which we prefer for its greater clarity and subtle differences.
Price of each is $55.
Thoth Tarot.
The Thoth Tarot was designed by Aleister Crowley, painted by Lady Frieda Harris and published during the Second World War. The colours, symbolism and imagery also reflect the secret teachings of the Golden Dawn of which Crowley too was a member, and we find this is the best deck to use for advanced studies. Each card is a true work of art.
The standard deck is $65 and the large deck is $75.
The Beginner’s Guide to Tarot set.
The Beginners Guide to Tarot set by Juliet Sharman-Burke is recommended for beginners as the name suggests. The set of cards is illustrated based on the Rider-Waite deck and there is a 192 page book which gives full information rather than the small booklet which is included in single decks.
The set is priced at $65.
Golden Art Nouveau Tarot
The Golden Art Nouveau deck was recently reprinted, using real gold to stunning effect. It is based on the Rider-Waite deck so it is very easy to use.
The details are clear and the court cards are realistic. The Italian artist is talented and makes the most and enjoy working with it.
The size is standard and the price is $65 (worth it for the real gold).
The Druid Craft Tarot Set.
The Druidcraft Tarot set by Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm blends The Western Pagan tradition, Wicca and Druidry into a deck illustrated with depth and relevance.
They are chief Druids themselves so create with a deep background knowledge. The 192 page guidebook is exceptional and adds another dimension to the whole.
Price is $75.
The Enchanted Tarot Set.
This new Anniversary edition of the Enchanted Tarot is one of our personal favourites and has been out of print for some time. It was produced by a husband and wife team and the art work began as tapestries.
It is based on the Rider-Waite-Smith deck so is accessible to people already used to that deck and has an excellent book which not only clarifies the issue but gives an affirmation and a ritual to work with. We find it a good deck to choose when the Querent’s issue is one of relationships.
Price is $75.
Books
The Tarot Bible.
The Tarot Bible by Sarah Bartlett is an excellent general guide to the Tarot, giving a history of its origins along with interpretations for every card and advice on how to give a reading. It also suggests practical ways to combine the Tarot with numerology, astrology, crystals and the Tree of Life.
Price is $39.
The Ultimate Guide to the Rider-Waite Tarot.
The Ultimate Guide to the Rider-Waite Tarot by Fiebig and Burger is focussed specifically on the Rider-Waite deck so is useful for most decks as at least 90% of these are based on this. It explains the symbols used for each card (with illustrations) and also gives a primary, spiritual and daily meaning for each. In addition it suggests and explains the ten most popular spreads.
Price is $45.