One thing many students of tarot find fascinating is learning what some of the mysterious symbols on the cards mean. During the Renaissance, when the tarot was invented, people were largely illiterate and were therefore very literate in symbol recognition. Their churches told the stories of their faith in stained glass and granite images. These days, we as a culture lack a shared symbol system and even the popular Rider Waite Smith tarot includes many symbols that are meaningless today. Meaningless until we unearth the meaning. In Rachel Pollack’s brilliant Tarot Wisdom, she casually and conversationally reveals many symbolic meanings. If you are looking for an enjoyable and

In just a few months (August, to be precise), Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Tarot by the knowledgeable experienced, and delightful writer Anthony Louis will be available. He covers the subject of tarot as completely as a concise overview allows and does so objectively, presenting background on the history of tarot as well as the various traditions. Throughout the book, he highlights some important gems from some of tarot’s most influential practitioners. In this excerpt, he shares an important observation by Aleister Crowley. Many people may miss Crowley’s wisdom because of his reputation. That is too bad because this is important stuff. Too many people think that by reading

Readers, please enjoy this guest blog post by Sasha Graham, author of Tarot Diva, 365 Tarot Spreads, and the new 365 Tarot Spells. Casting a spell is an enjoyable, mysterious, and empowering process. Spell ingredients are usually selected for the specific energies they innately possess. These energies should aid the caster in attaining her goal. Ingredients are also often selected for the metaphorical impact they offer the sorceress's psyche. Typical spell ingredients include herbs, foods, stones, gems, and candles colored to reflecting the caster's intent. Tarot does not sprout from the ground like English lavender, grow heavily on tree branches like honey crisp apples, nor are they

The lovely and very wise Sasha Graham has a new book in her 365 series: 365 Tarot Spells: Creating the Magic in Each Day. You can find out more HERE. This spell is from May 1. I thought I'd include it here now to both preview Sasha's wonderful work (and hopefully you will want more magic in your life, in which case, you should definitely get this book!) and give you time to prepare your spell. Today Today is May Day. As nature flourishes and spring energy abounds, this grounding spell will help you keep rooted as expansion blooms. Repeat as needed. Ingredients Temperance One raw onion Olive Oil Water Fresh feta cheese Salt, pepper, and