"The Tarot embodies symbolical presentations of universal ideas, behind which lie all the implicits of the human mind, and it is in this sense that they contain secret doctrine, which is the realisation by the few of truths imbedded in the consciousness of all, though they have not passed into express recognition by ordinary people."
A.E. Waite
JOURNEY INTO SELF
Mystical symbolism refers to the use of images, symbols, and metaphors to represent spiritual or mystical concepts that are difficult or impossible to express through language alone. These symbols are often used in religious or spiritual traditions to communicate deeper meanings and truths that go beyond ordinary human experience.
Mystical symbolism can take many different forms, such as geometric shapes, animals, plants, colors, numbers, and mythical creatures. These symbols are often used to represent abstract concepts, such as the nature of the divine, the human soul, the cycle of life and death, or the interconnectedness of all things. One of the key features of mystical symbolism is that it is often multivalent, meaning that it can have multiple meanings or interpretations depending on the context and the individual's own experiences and beliefs. This allows for a great deal of flexibility and creativity in how these symbols are used and interpreted, and it can also provide a sense of mystery and awe that is central to many mystical and spiritual traditions.
TAROT SYMBOLISM
Tarot is a set of cards that is used for divination, or the practice of seeking information about the future or about unknown or hidden things and as a tool for gaining insight into personal or spiritual matters. While Tarot readings are often used for divination, they can also be used for self-reflection and personal growth. The images and symbols on the cards can be used to explore one's own thoughts and emotions, and to gain a deeper understanding of oneself and one's life experiences.
The Tarot deck typically consists of 78 cards, each with its own unique image and meaning, divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. A Tarot reading usually involves shuffling the deck of cards, and then laying them out in a specific pattern or spread. The cards are then interpreted to provide guidance or insight into the question or situation at hand.
The Tarot cards are usually interpreted based on their symbolism and their position within the spread. Each card in the deck has a specific meaning, which can be influenced by its position in the spread, the cards that surround it, and the question being asked. The Tarot reader may also draw on their intuition and personal experience to interpret the cards.
These cards include symbols such as The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, The Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, Judgement, and The World. Each of these cards carries its own unique meaning and symbolism, and they are often used to explore deeper spiritual or psychological themes.
Each suit consists of 14 cards, with ten numbered cards and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). The numbered cards represent different levels or stages of experience, while the court cards represent different aspects of personality or character. The suits are often associated with different elements (Wands with fire, Cups with water, Swords with air, and Pentacles with earth), and they can be used to explore more specific aspects of daily life and practical matters.
These cards include symbols such as The Fool, The Magician, The High Priestess, The Empress, The Emperor, The Hierophant, The Lovers, The Chariot, Strength, The Hermit, The Wheel of Fortune, Justice, The Hanged Man, Death, Temperance, The Devil, The Tower, The Star, The Moon, The Sun, Judgement, and The World. Each of these cards carries its own unique meaning and symbolism, and they are often used to explore deeper spiritual or psychological themes.