Mystic Goddess

* Tarot Cards

The Tarot is a deck of 78 picture cards that has been used for centuries to reveal hidden truths. In the past few years, interest in the Tarot has grown tremendously. More and more people are seeking ways to blend inner and outer realities so they can live their lives more creatively. They have discovered in the Tarot a powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth and insight.

In traditional Western Occultism, the Tarot cards are recognized as the keystone of an entire philosophical system called Hermetism. Before the cards came into being, the knowledge was handed down by word of mouth from initiate to initiate. The Tarot cards are the first set of cards in existence. They came about when all higher knowledge was forbidden to be discussed. Many languages were spoken, so when the cards were drawn, the wisdom was seen in pictures so all could understand. They seemed to be first heard of in Austria in the 12th century. Some say the Egyptians and Chaldeans were the first to use the cards, and that they were later transported by the Gypsies into Israel and Greece. The "Masters", then known as the Hierophants (priests of the Eleusinian Mysteries), gave their knowledge to the Gypsies in order to preserve it. They designed the cards to hold the spiritual esoteric lessons. These cards linked together God, the Universe and Man. The Gypsies pretended that they were designed for entertainment in order to hide their true meaning.

It is said that the Tarot, the 22 Major Arcana lessons were part of the initiation ceremonies for the Egyptian priesthood. These cards, placed on the paths of the Tree of Life in the Kabalah, have also been used by the Hebrew masters with their highest spiritual learning. The Masons and the Eastern Star also use these paths as degrees. 

Whomever is responsible certainly knew ancient religions and philosophies the Tarot cards not only display the symbolism in the scenes, but also the subjects of Kabalah, Numerology, Astrology, Color, Musical Tones and Hebrew letters to bring the message of spiritual wisdom.

The best deck of Tarot cards to learn from is the Rider Waite Deck because the pictures on the cards are designed to show all the meanings that the card represents. After you learn this deck you may then apply your knowledge to other decks. The care of your cards is important, they are spiritual cards and should be treated with respect. They should always be stored in a natural material such as a silk cloth or bag, or wooden box. It is all right for you to pick your own deck of cards. It is a superstition that they must be given to you or they will bring you bad luck.