Tarot of the Sephiroth - tarot decks

Price: US $13.35

ProductID: alt1033

• The major arcana of the Tarot of the Sephiroth are fascinating. The art is angular and abstract, incorporating qabbalistic
• spheres, and the cards can be laid out showing the paths in the Tree of Life. However, the minor arcana do not match
• the majors in detail and interest.

The images were originally drawn in pen and ink, scanned into a computer, with colour being added later, They were intentionally given a two dimensional effect, aimed at replicating the style of Egyptian hieroglyphic art in a contemporary milieu. The major arcana are outstanding, with very strong and powerful representations of archetypal figures. The images include the use of vibrant colour to set the mood and varied symbolism to convey meaning. Some of the traditional Tarot characters are given dynamic new visual interpretations. The Hermit, the Empress and the Hanged Man are three memorable images in this deck. No reticent character with a lantern, the Tarot of the Sephiroth Hermit is Moses, perfectly depicting the power of internal reflection and change. His staff strikes water from stone and tablets of knowledge rest at his feet. And he Empress is just glorious! She stands, gracefully powerful against subtle shades of green and purple, surrounded by symbols of her role, crescent moons, dov es, lotus flowers and the crown of Demeter. The Hanged Man reflects the position of the foetus in the womb, thus making connections with creative feminine energy.

Symbolism in this deck includes astrological, elemental and Qabalistic attributions and many mythical associations from Greek, Roman, Hebrew and Egyptian settings. In fact, all the major arcana images are crowded with meaning and colour but once one feels at home with the symbolism, this deck is a very easy one to read. There is an unusual feeling of power in all the images, particularly those representing the feminine. I also enjoyed the quirky wit and humour subtly present throughout the deck.

The minor arcana are unusual. They are essentially non-scenic but make very strong use of primary associations and colour. For people who are interested in learning to read using elemental and numerological associations but don’t want to yet explore Marseilles decks, the Tarot of the Sephiroth is an excellent alternative. I actually found the minor arcana images very easy guides to meditation. The simplicity and freshness of the images enhanced this aspect for me, with robust depictions of the suit elements against flawless and pure pastel backgrounds.

The connections between the Tarot and Qabalah are extensively explored in the companion volume to the Tarot of the Sephiroth. There are diagrams of the Tree of Life, definitions and explanations in the general text. Each card has a detailed explanation of the symbolism and some suggested meanings. In fact, this deck companion is one of the best of its kind I have seen. There are many unexpected and useful sections to it – principles of divination, explanations of the court cards, numerology and elements and some unusual spreads written especially for this deck. The authors of the guide, Josephine Mori and Jill Stockwell deserve much credit.

For me, the Tarot of the Sephiroth did achieve its promised aims in terms of making the Qabalah more accessible but it also achieved what all good education does - the awakening of a compelling interest in further exploration of the Qabalah and Tarot, and their connections.