In-Depth Symbolism: Smith-Waite Tarot Deck
By Jackie Allen
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About this ebook
In-Depth Symbolism takes a fascinating look at Sacred Symbols and their impact in divination, especially the Tarot.
Learn about Tarot Symbolism.
Card-by-Card Meanings
Use your instincts to gain understanding.
Jackie Allen
Jackie Allen is an author, teacher, blogger and reader. She has written extensively about a variety of metaphysical topics. Her fascination with the Tarot dates back 40 years and she reads for clients all over the world.
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Book preview
In-Depth Symbolism - Jackie Allen
I.
Introduction
In the Tarot, the use of symbols tells the story of each tarot card. Each image is drawn containing metaphysical symbols which reflect a deeper meaning which differs from what is the literal image.
There are layers of symbolism in the Tarot. Every card has images that reflect these layers through symbolism. Underlying meanings are revealed in different ways in the images. There are different types of archetypal and religious symbols, colors, elemental references, astrological references, and even numerology.
These energy infused symbols help us to see the invisible and make the intangible real. But most of all an understanding of the symbolism used in the images allows for a much better interpretation of the magic Tarot language.
There is a lot to consider in the symbolism on Tarot cards. There are symbols from Christianity, Kabbalah, Paganism, Astrology, Numerology and those compiled by the Order of the Golden Dawn. There’s a lot of layers to examine.
It can be overwhelming. but it is compelling too. And the more you understand the symbolism the better you can interpret the Tarot.
Archetypal/Sacred Symbolism
Symbolism in the Tarot contains a collective
wisdom. It has roots in paganism from the ancient Greeks and Celts dating back to the second century AD. These flourished and became intertwined with Indian, Persian, and Egyptian magical beliefs over the next two hundred years.
Those who understood and used the secret
symbols became the target of the Christian church during the persecution and destruction of the Crusades in the Middle Ages. But in a strange irony all those heretic doctrines and symbols were saved, preserved intact and studied within the Church.
These specific symbols came to light again through the Freemason and Rosicrucian lodges in the 1700 to 1800’s and were returned to a limited public audience through occult and esoteric groups that sprang up in the mid 1800’s.
The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn opened in Britain, in 1888. They quickly developed into a worldwide organization with groups in Ireland, Australia, and the U.S. Within the Order the history and meaning of the sacred symbolism was studied and used in rituals.
Tarot cards inspired by magic symbolism were meant to be used for divination and ultimately, more importantly, enlightenment. While the group was active several members created their own Tarot decks and the Tarot was studied extensively.
During the 15 years of its existence the Order attracted some of the best and brightest minds of the time. And long after the original Order was disbanded its complex and beautiful legacy lives on forever.
By 1905, the core of the Golden Dawn occult group had folded. Several years later, two members of the Order, Arthur Edward Waite, a writer and educator and Pamela Colman Smith, an artist, published a Tarot deck and accompanying book, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot
. Originally, the deck was named after the publisher and Waite (Rider-Waite Tarot).
Today this deck is called the Smith-Waite Tarot. Smith is finally being credited for her amazing collaboration. It is without a doubt the most popular Tarot deck of all time.
In this book the traditional meanings of the sacred symbols are being explored. But remember to follow your own instincts when you see a symbol. Feel free to rely on the more traditional interpretations. Also look at your own ideas when you focus on the image.
Intuition and personal connections to the symbols give you an even greater understanding of what the traditional meanings of Tarot symbols can be interpreted in each reading.
II. Sacred Symbols Index
The Archetypal symbols found in the Tarot are associated with different periods in history, a variety of religions, and a myriad of cultures. They are the links fundamental to the metaphysical and mystical energy that has always surrounded us.
Angel(s) and Angel Wings-Angels are symbolic of divine messages and messengers. The message may take the form of divine intervention or an inspired idea. Where the Angel appears the highest thoughts and concepts can be found.
Angels appear in the major arcana on the Lovers, Wheel of Fortune, Temperance, and Judgment cards. On the Wheel of Fortune wings appear on an angel, a bird, a bull and a lion.
In the Minor arcana on the Queen of Swords. Angel wings image can be found on the Chariot card (major arcana) on the front of the chariot.
Ankh - The ankh symbolizes immortality and eternity. It is the Egyptian symbol for life.
The curved circle at the top represents the rising sun above the horizon. Both immortality (the sun shall always rise) and natural balance (horizon= female, sun= male) are reflected by these symbols.
The Ankh symbol appears on the Emperor and Empress cards (major arcana). It is on the staff that the Emperor holds and is emblazoned at the base of the Empress’s throne.
Archways/Doors/Gates - An open arch symbolizes doorways, openings, a new path forward or an initiation. The construction type of the archway can deepen your understanding. The image may even reveal what's on the other side of the archway.
For instance, the arch on the 4 of Wands is made of wands and topped off with victory garland of flowers. If you want to celebrate go on through. You will choose your path forward. Hopefully, where you find archways and doors it will help make that decision.
The archway on the Ace of Pentacles is at a distance from the main symbols and constructed totally of greenery. On the other side of that arch a mountain range is visible. So, when you have plenty of energy and feel ready for a challenge you can make your way to that distant arch.
Arches appear in four minor arcana cards. They are the 3, 10 and Ace of Pentacles and the 4 of Wands.
Armor - Armor is