Symbolism of the Tarot

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The Tarot, compared by some to the 'I Ching,' the famous and most ancient form of Chinese fortune telling, is similarly steeped in mystical symbolism. It has deep psychological, philosophical and religious connections. It is a form of amusement to some, but for some others it is something very serious.

P.D.Ouspensky has not only equated the Tarot to ancient Egyptian initiation rites, but has also found similarities between some of the hieroglyphic signs and the symbols used in the Tarot cards themselves. He has most carefully described these symbols and given us his lucid interpretations of them.

Others have found close relationships with the Hermetic Sciences - The Kabala, Alchemy, Astrology and Magic. It has also been stated that the Tarot is, along with these others, nothing more than a deep and detailed psychological study of the nature of the relationship that man holds with God. To understand and fully comprehend the Tarot requires a depth of knowledge in both psychology and philosophy, it also calls for an ability to relate the whole with religious thinking.

The Tarot as we know it, first entered Europe through gypsies in medieval Spain and later spread throughout Europe until it was found in its present form. Unfortunately it has become simply a source of amusement for many these days and it is hoped that this book will once again awaken an interest in this most complex subject.

Ouspensky does not identify the set of tarot cards on which he has based his meditations, but the set prepared by Pamela C. Smith under the supervision of A.E. Waite, a noted British student of the occult, fits Ouspensky's descriptions almost perfectly. There are only a few minor deviations.

**Sample Pages**