The meaning of tarot cards by Aleister Crowley

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The system of predictions for a deck of cards, called the Tarot, is known, by the standards of history, not so long ago - from the end of the XIV century. Where they came from, who invented them and brought them to European lands - nothing is known for certain. Among tarot lovers, there are several versions of their origin. One of them connects the deck with Egypt, seeing in it the encrypted symbols of sacred knowledge, which the priests of Thoth wanted to preserve and pass on to their descendants. Proponents of this hypothesis are trying to decipher the original, original symbols of the Tarot, although they admit that the authentic form of these drawings has been lost. One of these enthusiasts - Aleister Crowley, the brightest figure of the esoteric world of the 20th century - made a similar attempt to resurrect the secret wisdom of the Egyptian mysteries, lost in the depths of the centuries. The result of his work was the "Tarot Tota" deck, famous and quite popular in tarot circles.

The prerequisite for creating a new deck was Crowley's conviction that at the beginning of the 20th century, namely in 1904, the era of the god Osiris ended and the era of the god Horus began. The change of cycles affected the spiritual, magical sphere of life, thus requiring adjustments to the symbolic system of Tarot cards. Initially, however, Crowley had no intention of creating a new deck. His plans included only fixing the most suitable option of all existing ones. But his assistant, artist Frida Harris, insisted on a complete overhaul of the visuals and semantic consistency of the new set of maps. Work on them began in 1938 and lasted five years (instead of the originally intended three months). Thus was born the deck known today as Aleister Crowley's Tarot Thoth cards.

Aleister Crowley was an eerie syncretist in his views. He passionately sought secret knowledge wherever he could get. Traveling around the world, Crowley studied the magical, occult and mystical traditions of a wide variety of societies - from traditional religious communities to secret initiatory fraternities. The most contradictory thoughts, ideas and doctrines coexisted in his head, which he synthesized into a complex eclectic teaching, which he called thelema. All this heterogeneous mixture was reflected in the Tarot of Thoth, in a sense, drawing a line under all of his work: three years after the completion of work on the deck, Crowley died.
The first feature of his maps concerned the decoration. For Tarot, it was a completely new style, never used before. Crowley owes this to his partner, who was an experienced artist who perfectly felt the very essence.

Another interesting and most important distinguishing feature of Crowley's Tarot Thoth is that the interpretation of its symbols differs significantly from the interpretation of other, more traditional versions of the cards. Crowley combined in his work the symbolism of many cultures and occult schools, put his worldview into pictures and introduced a lot of additional images. Moreover, Crowley changed some of the cards in places, while others removed altogether, replacing them with analogs of his own composition. All this put Aleister Crowley's Tarot Thoth in a completely special position, turning fortune-telling into a special, independent system of predictions.

He left us the exegetical key to his deck in his fundamental book on the Tarot called The Book of Thoth. By its content, this is the richest reference book of divination cards. However, even there there is some reticence, so that modern tarotists who use Tarot Thoth in their practice sometimes have to calculate the meaning of a particular symbol, relying on their own experience, insight and intuition.

The main graphic, and most importantly - semantic, changes affected the cards of the major arcana. Therefore, it is on them that it is worth dwelling in a little more detail.

To use Crowley's deck productively, you need to master its inherent symbolism. If in other collections a certain amount of liberty in interpretation is allowed, due to the subjective set of associations with the standard archetype, then in Crowley all cards are rigidly tied to their meaning.

It should be noted right away that, unlike other decks, all Tarot cards of Thoth are interpreted only in an upright position. In the system he developed, there is no special meaning for inverted cards - this is true both for the major and minor arcana.

Aleister Crowley excluded from the traditional series the twentieth lasso "The Last Judgment", replacing it with his own, composed under the name "Aeon". In addition, in accordance with some French versions of the deck, he swapped the positions of the "Strength" and "Justice" cards, plus, as already noted, he quite significantly "corrected" the generally accepted meaning of the pictures, to the extent that he changed the name of some of them. For example, the same "Strength" and "Moderation" were named "Lust" and "Regulation", respectively.

Traditionally, the Fool card with a numerical value of zero is placed between the twentieth and twenty-first lasso. However, Crowley brought it back to the beginning of the general series, proposing to start the semantic sequence from scratch.

Fool (Jester, Fool, Madman) corresponds to the planet Uranus and the element of air. Means novelty, idea, border between old and new forms, spirituality.

The magician in the Tarot Thoth corresponds to Mercury. It means wisdom, strength, spiritual potential, capabilities, skills, abilities, creative potential, energy, mental and intellectual processes, communication.

Associated with the moon. Symbolizes introversion, inner concentration, feelings, instincts, intuition.

This figure is associated with Venus, and she is in charge of all the traditional Venusian aspects of life - love, relationships, sex, fertility, beauty and pleasure.

His figure is associated with the sign of Aries. Therefore, he embodies qualities such as leadership, dominance, idealism and dedication. The emperor symbolizes struggle, ambition, domination, exaltation, anger, stubbornness, fanaticism, energetic action.

The hierophant (sign - Taurus), that is, the initiate, carries the idea of ​​the material embodiment of spiritual principles. Therefore, it is explained as work, diligence, willpower, organization, structure, protection of higher powers.

This is one of the hardest cards in the Tarot Tota. Interpretation at the superficial level is determined by the sign of Gemini and the idea of ​​communication - communication, interaction, contradiction, choice.

Cancer patronizes the chariot. The circle of her associations includes the concepts of strength, victory, inner search, introspection, overcoming obstacles.

This lasso is ruled by the sign of Libra. Accordingly, it is interpreted as balance, justice, harmony and poise.

The hermit is associated with the sign of Virgo. Its meanings: search for knowledge, wisdom, depth, departure from everyday life, meaningfulness and systematization, self-sufficiency.

It is under the control of Jupiter. Reflects global turns of fate and universally significant phenomena - politics, religion, ideology. It can be interpreted as happiness, luck, and figuratively as a tailwind.

This card is under the jurisdiction of the sign of Leo. It is associated with ardor, conviction, all-absorption, creative energy, burning with something - an idea, desire, etc.

It is subordinate to Neptune and correlates with the element of water. The semantics of the arcana are sacrifice, loss, suffering, punishment.

Sign - Scorpio. Most often means change, transformation, change. Perhaps a crisis, destruction, the collapse of an idea, business or stage of something. Physical death is very rare.

Art is another difficult arcana in the Tarot Tota. The interpretation of cards usually has no connection with this aspect of life at the level of a particular archetype. Crowley brings it in by subordinating it to the sign of Sagittarius. The semantic series of this arcana is sequential actions, symbiosis of different forces, interaction.

The figure of the devil, associated in the Tarot of Thoth with the sign of Capricorn, reveals the concept of subordination. Along with this, she speaks of constraint, obstacle, obsession, bondage and material absorption.

The image of a tower or fortress under the auspices of Mars means danger. In addition, these are abrupt changes, sudden blows of fate, turning points and moments.

The star is run by Aquarius. This card symbolizes hope, opportunity, inspiration, unexpected help, faith.

The Moon chart is associated with the sign of Pisces. This arcana speaks of mistakes, confusion, deception, delusion. It can mean witchcraft and the beginning of change.

The sun is associated, of course, with the sun. The meaning of this card is victory, triumph, glory, power, realization, satisfaction, truth and selfishness.

Crowley's innovation card "Aeon" is associated with Pluto and the element of fire. He is charged with the beginning of a new business, the results of the past, the opening paths of the future, a transitional stage, a threshold.

This card is ruled by Saturn. It is interpreted as the final synthesis, the result, the universe, perfection, completeness, integrity.

The Tarot Tota attaches particular importance to the senior lasso. The cards of the minor lasso in Crowley's edition as a whole have not undergone significant changes. The only thing that distinguishes them is a kind of design, devoid of a storyline, but giving imagery to the symbols of the stripes themselves.

The most that Crowley contributed to the minor arcana was to change the suit of pentacles to discs. At the same time, the previous semantic core of the suit itself remained the same.

In conclusion, it should be said that for Tarot Thoth, the layouts used when working with ordinary decks are also quite acceptable and do not require specific additions. The correction is made only for the interpretation of the images themselves.

Aleister Crowley is the most famous kabbalist, occultist and tarologist in England. Strictly speaking, Crowley himself is not the creator of the Tarot Tota deck, he only revived the lost wisdom. There are many different versions of the origin of this deck. The most popular is associated with Ancient Egypt. According to her, in the "Tarot of Thoth" symbols are encrypted, which contain the sacred knowledge of the priests of the god Thoth. Crowley was also a supporter of this theory. He was engaged in deciphering and restoring ancient images, which were eventually described in the book "Tarot Tota".

Had his own reasons for doing mystical research on Crowley. Tarot, in the understanding of the mystic, was the bearer of sacred knowledge. Therefore, when Crowley was convinced that at the beginning of the 20th century the time of the god Osiris would end and the era of the god Horus would begin, he realized that the change of cycles would affect the magical and spiritual sphere of human life. And such changes will lead to the need to make corrections and changes to the system of Tarot cards, symbolically reflecting all areas of the surrounding reality.

Initially, the occultist did not want to change the entire deck. He was only going to correct the most essential values. However, Frida Harris, his assistant and artist, insisted that the deck be completely redesigned. As a result, the changes affected both the visual range and the semantic consistency.

Work on a new deck was started in 1938 and lasted for 5 long years, although initially Crowley expected to make all the necessary changes in 3 months.

The Book of Thoth is Crowley's most famous work, in which the occultist provided a complete description and interpretation of the deck of Thoth. This book can be viewed both as a textbook on Tarot cards in general, and as a guide to the worldview of its author and occult philosophy.

Crowley's work included a kabbalistic interpretation of the tarot deck, various systems of divination, quotations from the Book of the Law, and many other occult texts. Tarot is in the "Book of Thoth" a way of understanding the world and comprehending ancient wisdom.

By nature, he was a passionate syncretist of Crowley. The tarot became a reflection of his quest. The occultist traveled the world in search of secret knowledge, studied the mystical, occult and magical traditions of various nations and societies, including traditional religious communities and secret brotherhoods, where only initiates were allowed. The result of this was the synthesis of everything learned into a complex teaching, which received the name "Thelema".

This mixture of religions and magical mysteries was reflected in his tarot deck, which was the result of the exploration of the occultist's entire life - after finishing work on the cards, he lived only 3 years. Therefore, the correct interpretation of Crowley's Tarot is very difficult without studying the philosophical views of the mystic.

Among the first distinguishing features of the Thoth deck is the design - no one has ever used such a style for the design of the Tarot. For this we can thank the artist-Egyptologist F. Harris.

The next difference is more significant and related to the conceptual side. The fact is that the interpretation of the symbols of the Tarot Thoth is very different from the interpretation of traditional decks. This is due to the fact that Crowley combined the symbols of many occult schools and cultures, and also supplemented the pictures with his own worldview.

To effectively use the Crowley tarot deck for fortune telling, it is necessary to master its symbolism. If in traditional cards free and associative interpretations are allowed, then in the case of Tarot Tota it is necessary to clearly follow the semantic definition given by Crowley himself. Another remarkable point is that all cards from the Thoth deck are interpreted exclusively in a straight position. In Crowley's system, there are simply no separate meanings for the interpretation of upside-down cards.

In addition, the mystic refused in his Tarot to use the "Last Judgment" arcana, which was replaced by "Aeon", invented by the author. Crowley also changed some of the names. So, the lasso "Moderation" and "Strength" turned into "Regulation" and "Lust".

Thus, Crowley created his own divination system, the key to which is in the "Book of Thoth".

Aleister Crowley's Tarot Thoth cards, like traditional ones, are divided into two arcana - senior and junior. The older ones include 22 cards, which are meaningful, in contrast to the younger ones. They were the ones affected by the most dramatic changes. Therefore, first of all, it is necessary to consider and describe them in detail.

Zero card, or "Fool" (Fool, Madman, Jester). Traditionally, the card is placed between the 20th and 21st arcana, but Crowley placed it at the beginning of the row, suggesting that the major arcana should start from scratch. "Fool" refers to the air element, Uranus acts as a patron planet. Means ideas, novelty, spirituality, the border between old and new.

"Magician", 1st lasso - refers to Mercury. Indicates strength, wisdom, skills and abilities, capabilities, spiritual potential, energy, creativity, sociability, thought processes.

"High Priestess", 2nd lasso - associated with the Moon. Denotes feelings, intuition, instincts, inner focus, introversion.

"Empress", 3rd lasso - corresponds to Venus. Responsible for sex, love, beauty, pleasure and fertility.

"Emperor", 4th lasso - associated with the zodiac sign Aries. Symbolizes dominance, leadership, dedication and idealism; struggle, domination, ambition, anger, exaltation, fanaticism, stubbornness.

"Hierophant", 5th lasso - correlates with the sign of Taurus. It is the material embodiment of spiritual principles. It symbolizes perseverance, work, willpower, structuredness, organization.

We continue to describe Crowley's Tarot cards.

"Lovers", 6 lasso - associated with the sign of Gemini. This card is one of the most difficult to interpret in the Tarot Tota. Nevertheless, its general meanings are as follows: interaction, communication, choice, contradiction.

"Chariot", 7th lasso - is under the influence of Cancer. It symbolizes strength, inner search, victory, overcoming obstacles, introspection.

"Regulation", 8 lasso - he is patronized by the constellation Libra. Denotes fairness, balance, poise and harmony.

"Hermit", 9th lasso - associated with Virgo. It symbolizes wisdom, the search for knowledge, meaningfulness, depth of knowledge, self-sufficiency, systematization.

"Wheel of Fate", 10 lasso - patronized by Jupiter. It embodies the fateful turns in life and socially significant phenomena: religion, politics, ideology. It is interpreted as good luck and happiness.

Aleister Crowley attached great importance to the patron planet or zodiac sign associated with the lasso. In their relationship lies the deep meaning and the key to understanding the symbolism of the card.

"Lust", 11 lasso - Leo patronizes. It symbolizes conviction, ardor, creative energy, strong, almost fanatical passion for something.

"The Hanged Man", 12 lasso - correlates with Neptune and is under the auspices of the water element. Denotes loss, sacrifice, punishment, suffering.

"Death", 13 lasso - Scorpio patronizes. It symbolizes transformation, change, significant rethinking, destruction, crisis, the collapse of ideas or business. In extremely rare cases, it can mean physical death.

"Art", 14th lasso - associated with the constellation Sagittarius. Another difficult card to interpret, since it is not directly related to art as an aspect of life. The card denotes, rather, the symbiosis of various forces, their interaction, the sequence of actions.

"Devil", 15 lasso - Capricorn patronizes. Directly related to the concept of subordination. In addition, it denotes obstacles, constraint, bondage, obsession, absorption in the material side of life.

The description of the major arcana proposed by Crowley (Tarot) is coming to an end.

"Tower", 16 lasso - corresponds to Mars. Symbolizes danger, blow of fate, change.

"Star", 17 lasso - is under the auspices of Aquarius. Denotes opportunity, hope, faith, unexpected help.

"Moon", 18 lasso - the zodiac sign of Pisces. Indicates confusion, deception, mistakes, witchcraft, the beginning of change.

"Sun", 19 lasso - the Sun protects. It symbolizes triumph, victory, power, glory, satisfaction, realization of the plan, truth, selfishness.

"Eon", 20 lasso - associated with Pluto and the fire element. The map was created by Crowley. Indicates the transition, the beginning, the summing up, the threshold between the old and the new.

"Universe", lasso 21 - Saturn patronizes. It is interpreted as tog, synthesis, integrity, completeness, perfection.

The minor arcana of Crowley's Tarot consists of 56 cards. They have hardly changed. The only thing that distinguishes them from the traditional deck is the design, which, although devoid of a plot, gives the symbols more imagery. Crowley's main change is changing the suit of the pentacles to the suit of disks. At the same time, the symbolic meaning of the cards has not changed.

Tarot Tota was created by Aleister Crowley in collaboration with a talented artist named Frida Harris. Currently, this deck is one of the most popular, second only to the classic Tarot Ryder-Waite. In the book "Tarot Thoth", Crowley writes that in many respects his cards are associated with kabbalistic teaching, as well as the concept of the Tree of Life - Sephiroth. The images of the Arcana in this deck, in comparison with others, are full of different symbolism.

1 Features of Tarot Thoth

Tarot Tota has 2 main subgroups - Major and Minor Arcana. Senior - these are 22 basic cards; junior - 56 cards of 4 suits. Each of the suits traditionally starts with Ace, followed by two, three and then up to ten. After that, curly designations begin - Prince, Princess, Queen and Knight. Crowley has made some changes to his deck:

  • Coins common to other decks are called Disks by Crowley.
  • The Arcane Wheel of Fortune is simply called "Fortune".
  • The fourth Arcana received a double name - "Lovers" / "Brothers".
  • The lasso "Moderation" is called "Art".
  • "Judgment" is replaced by "Eon".
  • "World" - to "Universe".
  • Crowley replaced "Strength" with "Lust".
  • "Justice" - to "Regulation".

Working with this deck requires high skill of a fortuneteller. Among professional tarot readers, there is an opinion that Tarot Tota is the most energy-consuming.

Major Arcana Tarot: deciphering the meanings

2 0. Fool

The Jester's patron is the god Dionysus. The magician Papus wrote: the image of a fool is associated with a neophyte who, due to a blindfold on his eyes, is not able to foresee the complexity of his journey. In Tarot Tota, Crowley pays most attention to this particular Arcana.

The card depicts a man with horns on his head. It is located in the center of an oval-shaped egg. The long umbilical cord symbolizes unity with the universe. In Tarot Tota, this card speaks of the desire for development. The Fool is a jester who is ready to go through other Arcana.

The symbols on the Arcana reveal the meaning of the card:

  • The spiral in the shape of a heart means openness, emotional revival.
  • The butterfly indicates the readiness of the questioner to change, his desire for self-development.
  • The two children hugging each other in the picture speak of the importance of paying attention to valuable relationships.
  • The crocodile and the tiger biting the jester testify to freedom from fear.
  • Horns on the head mean the ability to be aware of reality, to see the cause-and-effect relationships between events.
  • The sun symbolizes the rebirth of sexual energy.

Predictions using the Ryder-Waite Tarot: features and decoding

3 I. Magician

In other decks, this card is usually called Mage. Crowley considers the god Mercury to be the patron saint of the Magician. On the card, he is depicted balancing on a thin board. He manages to masterfully juggle various objects - a whistle, coins, fire, a rod, a winged egg, a sword. God moves between light and darkness, good and evil, white magic and black. Two snakes can be seen at the Magician's head, symbolizing healing.

Arcanum interpretation:

  • Clarity and precision of mind. The questioner has enough intelligence to distinguish between good and bad.
  • In personal relationships, the card speaks of the strengthening of love, mutual magnetism.
  • Disclosure of all physical and spiritual abilities.
  • Initiative, willingness to get down to business.

Tarot cards: types of decks, meaning and interpretation of predictions

4 II. High priestess

The patronage of the image of the High Priestess is provided by the goddess of the moon Isis. Crowley referred to Priestess as the tallest female character in the entire deck. On the map, she is surrounded by a weightless network of moonbeams, which testifies to her subtle spiritual nature. Below you can see fruits that testify to the riches of the inner world.

Card Value:

  • The questioner gained access to his inner spiritual reserves. It is necessary to actively engage in self-development.
  • Disclosure of unusual abilities - clairvoyance, healing.
  • The occupation of the questioner is esoteric.
  • In a relationship with a significant person, there is a deep intimacy and mutual understanding.

5 III. The empress

Its patrons are the Greek goddesses Artemis and Hecate. The Empress is a mother and beloved woman at the same time. The card depicts a symbol of unconditional acceptance and love - a pelican feeding chicks with its own blood. On the shield of the Empress is a double-headed eagle, symbolizing personal transformations, transformation at a deep level. The empress's left hand is open, and in her right she holds a lotus stem, which is a phallic symbol.

Arcanum Empress meanings:

  • Full disclosure of femininity, the realization of feminine qualities.
  • In the future, it is possible to work out unresolved conflicts with the mother.
  • Next to the questioner is a beautiful and strong woman who wants to imitate.
  • Business profit or a good bonus at work.
  • A wise solution to the current difficult situation.

6 IV. The emperor

The patron saint of this Arcana is the Greek goddess Athena and the Roman Mars. If the symbol of the Empress can be called merging, then the Emperor's strategy is separation. His image symbolizes a father, a senator, a ruler. The emperor is the embodiment of the power of the patriarchy.

His throne features vibrant shades of red, the color of Mars, the god of war. Double-headed eagles, as in the Empress Arcana, testify to internal changes driven by the powerful energy of the Sun. To the right and left of the Emperor, you can see rams, symbolizing tenacity and power. In this aspect, Arcanum can be compared with the astrological sign of Aries. Crowley emphasized that the obedient meek lamb depicted on the card is the reverse side of the raging ram, which is a symbol of the Emperor himself.

Map in the layout:

  • Manifestation of rigidity, leadership qualities. The questioner should be more flexible.
  • In relationships, Arkan says that the questioner seeks to dominate.
  • In combination with the card Knight of Wands, the Emperor can testify to the infidelity of a permanent partner.
  • Often, Arkan means a specific person influencing the situation - a high-ranking official, a law enforcement officer, etc.

7 V. The Hierophant

The patroness of Arkan is the goddess Hera. The Hierophant sits on the Bull, as if on a throne. He has 4 cherubs on its sides. This is a bull, an eagle, a lion and a man. They symbolize different aspects of being. Ox - earth (material), Leo - fire, dynamics. Man is Air (mentality). The eagle is a symbol of transformation, indicating a connection with the world of feelings and emotions.

The hierophant is a true spiritual master, the last step in the possible development of a person. Before him stands a woman - the goddess Hera. In her hands she holds objects that symbolize wisdom and emotion. With the Hierophant, they are in harmony and balance.

The meaning of the Arcana in the Tarot of Thoth:

  • Meeting with an enlightened person, a spiritual Teacher.
  • The questioner is looking for the truth, has an understanding of the meaning of the events taking place with him.
  • The questioner has to teach someone or get an education himself.
  • In relationships with people, deep trust reigns.

8 VI. Lovers (or Brothers)

The patron saint of Arcanum Lovers are the Greek gods Castor and Pollux. The card depicts the wedding of the Emperor and Empress. The wedding ceremony is performed by the Hermit, whose appearance is completely hidden by robes. This secrecy symbolizes that the origin of all objects and phenomena is hidden from perception and intellect. On the map, all symbols are shown in pairs. This suggests that personality transformation occurs in the marriage union. The children depicted are holding in their hands objects of those spheres that will be subjected to changes. This is a bowl (a sign of emotions), a spear (thought processes, intellect), flowers (a symbol of spirit), a stick (flesh).

Arcanum can mean:

  • A love relationship that will transform a person.
  • New ways of personal growth.
  • Getting married.
  • The questioner, following the call of his heart, will be able to make an unambiguous decision.
  • It is recommended to join forces with the efforts of other team members.

9 VII. Chariot

The patron saint of this Arcana is the Greek god Apollo the Charioteer (Mercury in the Roman tradition). The card depicts a driver sitting in a meditation posture. The Holy Grail can be seen in his hands; before moving forward, he calculates all the possible consequences. In the Tarot Thoth, this card depicts a team; it contains four sphinxes, symbolizing the forces that set the chariot in motion. As soon as the correct direction is chosen, it will move forward.

Possible meanings of the Arcana Chariot in the layout:

  • Courage, deep understanding of your goals.
  • Desire to leave the familiar place.
  • Career growth, significant advancement.
  • The questioner will be able to solve the most serious problems by overcoming the contradiction between mind and soul.
  • The beginning of a new relationship, accompanied by a breakthrough from the "shackles" of the previous connection.

10 VIII. Regulation

The card depicts a young woman with weights. In her hands is a magic sword, she herself balances on her toes. Only absolute calmness allows her to maintain balance. In the old deck, this card was called Justice. A female figure is depicted in front of the throne. The throne is made up of 4 balls and pyramids. They, like their mistress, symbolize impartial impartiality.

What does the regulation card mean in the layout:

  • Facing the consequences of your actions.
  • The need to carefully weigh words and actions, avoiding extremes.
  • The questioner needs to find the conditions in which he will feel harmony.
  • Summing up the balance, the need to submit financial statements.
  • Balanced life.
  • Excessive caution of the questioner generates inaction.
  • Close attention should be paid to those people or phenomena that can infuriate the questioner.
  • It is useful to engage in meditation, to restore the balance of the mind.

11 IX. Hermit

The patrons of this Arcanum are the Greek god Atis; Roman gods Ceres and Adonis. The card depicts an old man whose appearance is hidden from prying eyes. In his hand is a bright lamp, a symbol of inner energy and awareness. The hermit courageously embarks on a search for inner truth. But on this path, dangers await him in the form of his own Shadow - it is symbolized by a poisonous snake and the three-headed dog Cerberus. The hermit is the symbol of the sage. He so deeply immersed the light of knowledge into the inner waters of the unconscious that he was able to illuminate this darkness.

A card can mean:

  • Knowledge and understanding of oneself, honesty towards oneself.
  • Temporary solitude is needed to understand yourself.
  • Bitterness towards others, forced isolation from society is possible.
  • The need to accept your loneliness.
  • The questioner should not worry about people who do not understand him. Most likely, they will just make him part of the “herd”.
  • If the opportunity arises to meet a spiritual teacher or mentor, you should take this opportunity.

12 X. Fortune

The patron saint of Fortune is the god Jupiter. The card depicts a ten-spoke Wheel of Fortune that revolves amid lightning and thunder. The wheel symbolizes integrity, which is in constant motion. Sphinx, crocodile and monkey are symbols of the ancient Egyptian gods. The properties of the sphinx are 4 virtues of a magician: knowledge, willpower, courage, silence. A monkey is a sign of flexibility, the ability to adapt to new circumstances. Crocodile is the god of creativity.

Arkan Fortune in the layout can mean:

  • Situations in which the questioner needs to learn an important life lesson.
  • The need to find out the root cause of the current state of affairs.
  • Routine work.
  • Serious changes.
  • Maintaining the status quo in love.

13 XI. Lust

The patroness of the card is the goddess Demeter. The Arcana depicts the figure of a woman who is intoxicated with passion. The seven-headed lion also appears to be flushed. The woman turns her head towards the urn with fire, she is completely engulfed in the energy of creativity and change. In her hands is the Holy Grail, surrounded by tongues of fire.

Arcanum meanings:

  • The one who wishes is full of energy and thirst for work.
  • High creativity, desire to create.
  • Meeting the emotions raging inside. Their pacification.
  • A strong relationship full of passion.
  • The questioner should not hide secret desires under the guise of decency.
  • The need to accept yourself.

14 XII. Hanged

The patron god of this Arcana is Poseidon. In almost all decks, the meaning of this card is the same - a young man is depicted hanging upside down. Aleister Crowley's deck was no exception. But in his deck the Hanged Man hangs not on a tree or gallows, but on the ancient Egyptian hieroglyph Ankh, which is a symbol of life and related in its meaning to the Arcanum of the Empress. The body of the hanged man is devoid of sexual characteristics. The face is also poorly drawn.

The symbols of this Arcana are read without difficulty. The facelessness of the Hanged Man indicates that he is completely lacking in individuality. Unknown gender directly indicates a lack of sexuality.

Arcanum meanings The Hanged Man:

  • A state of depression, deep self-doubt.
  • Pessimism. In the future, the questioner does not see a gap.
  • Established habits and a rigid view of reality do not allow you to see things as they are.
  • Lack of faith in yourself, your intuition.
  • In work or business, things are not going well; delays, bureaucracy.
  • By accepting the situation as it is at the moment, you can make a significant leap forward.

15 XIII. Death

The patrons of this Arkan are the gods Thanatos, Hades. Usually, this Arkan does not mean real, physical death - it indicates radical changes, the transformation of circumstances, personality. The map shows a skeleton with a scythe. It is in extreme tension, like a compressed spring. A traditional Egyptian veil is worn on his head, which was used in ancient times during funeral rituals. Nearby is a scorpion ready to sting at any moment. The water lilies and lilies that once bloomed are now covered in mud.

Arcanum Death means:

  • Completion of the current situation and the beginning of a new one.
  • The end of the current stage does not always bring sadness, because something new always follows. Change can be compared to leaving school and going to college.
  • The readiness of the questioner to change.
  • Completion of the next stage of personal growth.
  • In relationships, the card in most cases portends a separation.

16 XIV. Art

Arkan means the union of opposite meanings. The card depicts the marriage of an imperial couple. The dark-skinned Emperor now has a light face, while the light-skinned Empress has a dark one. They are dressed in a green robe that symbolizes the creative process. Water is pouring into the urn; steam rises from it - a symbol of a new state.

The Art card in the layout can mean:

  • Removal of contradictions, effective interaction with others.
  • The questioner underestimates the difficulties that await him in the work on the implementation of the project.
  • It is necessary to develop a calm and focused approach to work.
  • The questioner needs to find peace with himself; forget about careerism and competition, love yourself for who you are.
  • In personal relationships - a period of understanding, trust, cooperation.

17 XV. Devil

The patrons of this Arcana are Pan and Hermes. In Tarot Thoth, the Devil is represented as a white goat with large spiral horns. On the goat's forehead there is an open Third Eye, symbolizing heightened perception. Behind you can see a phallic symbol - a column. The two balls at the bottom of the Arcana symbolize eggs. In them, like the cells of the male seed, there are male and female figures - four of each sex. This card symbolizes creative power in its material, masculine manifestation.

This Arkan is often misunderstood by novice tarologists. To correctly interpret the Devil card, it is recommended to abstract from the prevailing stereotypes surrounding this symbol.

The lasso in the layout can mean the following:

  • In the environment of the questioner, there is a person who practically “demonizes” him. This character should be treated with humor and lightness.
  • The person got acquainted with the shadow side of his own personality, found the strength to resist addictions.
  • In a relationship, it symbolizes flirting, sensuality, passion.
  • Inquirers may be seized by the instincts of destructive power.

18 XVI. Tower (or War)

The patrons of Arkan Tower are the gods Ares and Mars. The map depicts a crumbling structure. Lightning, fire and various weapons of war completely destroy the building. In the upper part of the Arcana, the eye of Horus is depicted - a symbol of pure awareness, the ability to see things as they are. Dove means compassion that arises from the ability to know oneself.

Arkan Tower can mean:

  • An unexpected end to a relationship that poisoned the life of the questioner.
  • Explosion of emotions and passions.
  • The walls behind which the questioner has so far tried to hide are crumbling.
  • Rapid changes that destroy the usual picture of the world to the core. Man is at the epicenter of transformation.
  • The collapse of the value system.
  • The need to let go of the old, to strive towards the new.

19 XVII. Star

The goddess Juno patronizes the Star. On the card in the Tarot Tota, a girl (Star) is depicted, holding two cups in her hands. This is Nuit, the goddess of the stars. She raised the golden cup high and poured star milk from it. On the left, the seven-pointed star Babalon is depicted, rotating the flows of energy of the Universe. The star is a very auspicious card.

Arkan means:

  • New, promising relationships.
  • The questioner is on the verge of a new step in his career.
  • Seemingly random encounters actually have value and impact.
  • Negotiations and alliances will bring good luck.
  • Projects in any area await favorable completion.

20 XVIII. moon

This Arkan, like the Hanged Man card, is patronized by the god Poseidon. The waning moon symbolizes immersion in the dark worlds of the unconscious. This card speaks of the final and most difficult check. Above is a narrow passage guarded by stern and sinister wolf-headed sentries. Behind them, dark towers are visible, which are the symbols of these sentries. At the feet of the guards are depicted prowling jackals. This Arcanum in the Tarot Thoth can mean severity, non-acceptance of outside interference. The guards do not admit those who come here out of idle curiosity or without confidence in their abilities. At the bottom is a scarab, a sacred Egyptian beetle that symbolizes the light of consciousness. The darkness of illusion dissipates when awareness arises.

Arkan Moon in the layout means:

  • Lack of awareness. Existence approaches the animal.
  • Uncertain environment. Unclear life circumstances.
  • The questioner is tormented by fears, nightmares.
  • Feeling insecure, insecure.
  • Destructive jealousy in relationships.
  • Fear of decisive action, exam.

21 XIX. The sun

The sun is patronized by the gods Helios and Apollo. For its reasons, this Arkan is similar to the Fool card. But the Sun is not subject to evil forces. The card depicts two children with butterfly wings on their backs. They symbolize the interaction of a man and a woman, free from prejudices. The obstacles are behind, and now all the energy is available for creativity. The top of the mountain is surrounded by a high wall. This means that the highest level of spiritual knowledge remains closed for the dancers.

Arcanum Sun is also dangerous - perhaps even more than in Arcanum Fool. A person, having found a source of light in himself, succumbs to the temptation to freeze in narcissism, which is confirmed by the fate of Icarus or Narcissus. Having found inner energy in oneself, it is necessary to share it with the world.

Arkan Sun is:

  • Bright streak in life.
  • The work is done with joy and enthusiasm.
  • Good relationships with management and colleagues.
  • In a relationship - the absence of problems, a cloudless period, complete mutual understanding.
  • The search for oneself is complete, the questioner is in harmony with his desires; he has reached the highest level of self-acceptance.

22 XX. Aeon

Aeon is patronized by the Greek god Hades and the Roman Volcano. Since this Arcanum testifies to spiritual growth, the image of a luminous child is brought to the fore. Around the top of the map is the body of Nyut, the goddess of the night. She symbolizes unlimited possibilities. Nut's consort, Hadit, is depicted as a fireball at the bottom of the card. From their interaction, a child is born. It symbolizes a miracle. Having managed to overcome the last trials, they find their happiness.

Aeon card meanings:

  • Great joy and delight on the way to self-knowledge.
  • Liberation of the obsolete.
  • Major changes - possibly a new job.
  • Discovery of a powerful source of creative self-realization.
  • The questioner will soon find the true "treasure" in the current relationship. If he is single, he will soon find him in an alliance with a new partner.

23 XXI. Universe

The patron of the Universe is Saturn. This is the final card of the deck. The Universe closes the cycle that was started with Arkan the Fool. The card depicts a naked woman dancing a light dance of liberation. The sickle in her right hand allows her to successfully wade through any temptation and seduction.

Arkan Universe in the layout means:

  • Finding a true calling.
  • Achievement of the long-awaited goal.
  • The happiness of completing a task brilliantly.
  • A strong love union - under this Arkan there will never be a "resort romance".

Tarot Thoth is often called "all-encompassing" - because in its creation, Crowley relied on the symbols and teachings of various civilizations. The layout made on this deck allows you to get an answer in the most extraordinary life situation. Sometimes it can take several days to interpret the fortune-telling.

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The Tarot cards of Thoth by Aleister Crowley are named after the mythological character - the Egyptian wise god Thoth. They differ from the general tradition. Some, even very experienced tarot readers, are afraid to use the Thoth deck in their rituals. Others use only these Tarot, and will never exchange them for any others.

Tarot Tota - a deck that has received great acclaim

The creator of the Tarot Thoth, the most mysterious dark magician of his time, Aleister Crowley, had a terrible reputation and was known to everyone as a very cruel man. Despite this fact, his Tarot became widespread. They carry a rich symbolism that draws on the ancient mythology of many cultures.

The Tarot Cards of Thoth, along with the Book of Thoth, were developed in the early 20th century by the English mystic, occultist and tarot scholar Edward Alexander Crowley, better known as Aleister Crowley. The cards were created in collaboration with the artist Frida Harris, who was also fascinated by mysticism.

Aleister Crowley was a dark magician and Satanist, one of the most famous occult ideologues of his time. He created his own doctrine of Thelema, was a member of the Order of the Silver Star. Due to his views and immoral behavior in public, Aleister Crowley's relationship with society did not develop, many were afraid of him.

Crowley studied the already known tarot decks for a long time. He was not satisfied that the interpretations of the cards were obscure and the meaning was revealed only to a select few. He decided to create such a deck of Tarot cards so that everyone who decided to study magic would discover their symbolism.

Artists out of superstition did not want to collaborate with Crowley, all except Frida Harris. She was an Egyptologist, interested in mythology and mysticism. Alistair explained to her the meaning of each Arcana and each individual card. The work on the deck took a long time, and they were published only after the death of the creators. The Second World War prevented the publication of the creation in time.

The drawings turned out to be very complex, abstract, they differed from tradition. The back of the cards featured the Rose and the Golden Dawn Cross.

According to the Tarot tradition, Aleister Crowley's deck is divided into Arcana - Senior and Junior.

Tarot Tota is a deck that is traditionally divided into Major and Minor Arcana

The Major Arcana received the name Trumps of the Tarot, there are 22 of them.

Crowley changed the names and meanings of some of the trump cards from the traditional tarot, and rearranged some in other positions.

The gallery of the major arcana includes maps.

  • Fool or Jester. Opens the deck.
  • High priestess.
  • Empress.
  • Emperor.
  • Hierophant or High Priest.
  • Lovers / Brothers. Crowley gave the map a double name.
  • Chariot.
  • Regulation. The original name is Justice, and position XI.
  • Hermit.
  • Fortune. The original name is the Wheel of Fortune.
  • Lust. The original name is Sila, and position VIII.
  • The Hanged Man or the Hanged Man.
  • Death.
  • Art (Alchemy). The original name is Moderation.
  • Devil.
  • Tower.
  • Star.
  • The sun.
  • Eon. The original name is Court.
  • Universe. The original name is Mir.

In the Tarot Thoth, by tradition, there are four suits of the Minor Arcana, with 14 cards in each.

  • Wands.
  • Swords.
  • Cups.
  • Disks. Traditionally, this suit is called Coins (Dinars, Pentacles). Crowley changed the name. The disc symbolizes the Earth. In the Middle Ages, it was represented as a flat disk.

In the images of the first ten cards of the suit, there is no plot that is suitable for interpretation. Each card has its own content and symbolism. The next four arcana have changed names, compared to the canonical ancient Tarot. The Page card received a new name Princess and a new meaning. The Knight became the Prince, the King became the Knight, and only the Queen remained the Queen.

Each Tarot card by Aleister Crowley Tarot Thoth has a correspondence in astrology.

The signs depicted on the Tarot cards of Thoth belong to the mythology of different peoples and different spiritual practices. Thoth cards contain mystical symbols:

The interpretation of the meaning of each arcana is ambiguous, it is multifaceted. Aleister Crowley gave his charts a detailed interpretation from his personal, very specific, point of view on magic and astrology. The symbolism of many cards coincides with the traditions of the Tarot, but the meaning of some cards has changed or received an additional meaning.

This refers to the lasso which Crowley renamed. The magician believed that at the beginning of the 20th century, the old era - the Aeon of Osiris - ended, and the countdown of a new milestone began - the Aeon of Horus, which will last for the next two millennia. Based on this conviction, he did not give his cards an unambiguous classical interpretation. The change of era changes the astrological framework, and therefore the meanings of the Tarot arcana.

The meaning of the Tarot cards of Thoth is described in detail in the "Book of Thoth"

A comprehensive description, symbolism and meaning of the Tarot cards of Thoth are described in the "Book of Thoth". This is a valuable work in which mystical secrets are revealed. Those who want not just to tell fortunes, but to seriously engage in the study of Tarot magic, should definitely familiarize themselves with the book.

Practicing sorcerers who use the Tarot, based on their personal experience, give a simplified interpretation of the cards. Sometimes their interpretations differ from the canonical ones, which were laid down by the creator. Especially these are the renamed cards - Aeon, Art (Alchemy) and Lovers.

Major Arcana Tarot Thoth - the main in importance in the Tarot deck. They are most saturated with symbols and reflect all aspects of human life and its events. Each card received an interpretation in the "Book of Thoth". But practicing magicians often disagree with existing interpretations. For some cards, they assign, if not a new value, then additional properties.

The first card in the Tarot deck of Thoth. It symbolizes the beginning, new potential, an abundance of ways of self-realization, creative disorder, recklessness of youth, naivety, irresponsibility. Irresponsibility is the negative meaning of the Jester. The layouts for the future development of business, if the Jester falls out in them along with a negative card, will signal that you need to take business more seriously, gain new experience.

It means willpower, striving for life, determination, skill and experience, cunning and sharpness of mind. If a Magician is given in the scenario, this may mean that a person has a magical gift. This card always carries a positive message.

It symbolizes the feminine principle, and everything connected with it - wisdom, intuition, the ability to wait, creativity.

It also carries feminine strength, symbolizes cyclicality. It means the birth of a new life, renewal, thirst for life, sensuality, trusting relationships in the family.

Strong power card. It symbolizes a sense of reality, a willingness to take responsibility for oneself and others, leadership qualities, pragmatism, perseverance of character, uncompromisingness.

Symbolizes understanding, indicates an intelligent person. If the alignment gave the card of the Hierophant, this may indicate that soon a person will understand himself, learn the truth, find harmony of the soul with the body, or learn about an important event.

A card of love, friendship and trusting human relationships. In layouts for the future, it can directly indicate an imminent marriage.

It symbolizes the path - the path of life, the path to success in business, the path of knowledge or comprehension of the truth.

Regulation - a card that symbolizes the restoration of justice

It is a symbol of balance, harmony. In fortune-telling for the future, the card means that affairs and relationships with people will return to normal, and justice will be achieved.

A very controversial map. Its positive side is solitude, self-knowledge. Negative meanings - isolation, selfish actions, depression.

A positive card of luck, especially in matters of finance. And it also symbolizes the beginning of something new, serious changes in life.

The interpretation of it in the books of Aleister Crowley differs from the modern one. Practitioner sorcerers define Lust as a powerful energy card. It means fearlessness, love of life, passion, willingness to take risks.

The card is considered negative. It means powerlessness, difficult life circumstances, doubts, the need for sacrifice, the absence of an alternative.

A negative card representing death and destruction. It can warn about the imminent death of a person, a pet, the destruction of a business, loss of work, divorce.

The card always has a positive message. It means the achievement of harmony in business and relationships, overcoming difficulties and conflicts, curing the disease.

It symbolizes the worst manifestations of a person - envy, greed, deceit, selfishness, lust. The Devil who fell in the scenario says that you need to beware of the manifestation of these qualities in someone or in yourself.

It symbolizes the appearance of the new in the place of the destroyed old. Change can be both positive and negative. Positive - clearing thoughts, awareness of something new, breaking up unnecessary relationships. Negative ones - bankruptcy, divorce, separation from loved ones.

Strong positive card of new hope. It means happiness, harmony, the emergence of new previously unavailable prospects, new relationships.

Negative card. Symbolizes difficulty, obsession with fears, depression, bad feelings.

The interpretation of this card is diametrically opposed by different practicing magicians. Some consider it extremely positive, symbolizing happiness, the birth of a new one, the development of oneself and their creative abilities. Others call it negative. They say that the Sun that has fallen out in the scenario means that failures, quarrels, and nervous breakdowns lie in wait in the future.

Aeon card - the beginning of something new (for example, a project on work)

The map was created by Crowley as a symbol of the beginning of a new era - the Aeon of Horus. And the meaning was the same - the beginning of something new, a change for the better.

It is a symbol of successful completion, achievement of peaks, confirmation in one's knowledge, recovery.

The main semantic load in the layouts of the Tarot is carried by the senior arcana, the rest of the cards complement the general picture with new symbols and meanings. Each suit of the minor arcana symbolizes one of the four elements.

The interpreter gives the cards from ace to ten of all minor arcana classical meanings, only the meanings of the last four cards, which Crowley changed the name, differ.

Wands are a fiery suit, they are responsible for the emotional aspect of life. The main meanings of the arcana.

  • Ace - creative energy, logic, a new beginning.
  • Deuce - possession, dominance.
  • Three is virtue.
  • Fours are completion (usually good).
  • Five is a fight.
  • Six is ​​a victory.
  • Seven - valor, action.
  • Eight - speed, dynamic development.
  • Nine is strength.
  • Ten - suppression, obstacles, problems with the law.
  • Prince - active development, a path to achieving goals, energy.
  • Princess - Overcoming Fears.
  • Queen - activity, thirst for development, passion.
  • Knight - unbalanced excessive energy, cruelty, aggression.

The color of the Cups is watery, they are responsible for feelings and everything connected with them. The simplest and most popular interpretations of the Thota Tarot Cups suit cards.

  • Ace is love and kindness, a basic set of human feelings.
  • Deuce is love.
  • Three - an abundance of feelings, fruitfulness of work.
  • Four is a luxury, a sense of fullness.
  • Five is a disappointment.
  • Six is ​​a pleasure.
  • Seven - imposed stereotypes, self-doubt, alcoholism.
  • Eight - lethargy, laziness, depression.
  • Nine is happiness.
  • Ten is satiety.
  • Prince - pessimism, negative attitude to life, depression.
  • Princess - lightness, optimism, inspiration, hopes for the best.
  • The Queen is an obscurity, an incomprehensible situation.
  • Knight - leadership qualities, awareness of strength, movement towards the goal.

The air suit of Swords is responsible for the intellectual sphere, issues of understanding and comprehending events, ideas, their role in the world, etc. The main meanings of the cards.

  • Ace - understanding, clarification.
  • Deuce - peace, tranquility, unambiguous clear thoughts.
  • Three - grief, anger, jealousy.
  • The four is a truce in a complex conflict.
  • Five - defeat, fear of being defeated.
  • Six is ​​science, pure reason without emotions, high order.
  • Seven - futility, pessimism, awareness of their uselessness.
  • Eight is an active intervention that will lead to negative consequences.
  • Nine - cruelty, self-accusation.
  • Ten - collapse, emotional imbalance.
  • Prince - indecision, lack of understanding of the situation.
  • Princess is a conflict, a scandal.
  • Queen - a radical change in views, a change of opinion.
  • Knight - understanding the task, self-confidence.

Knight of Swords - Self-confidence

The earth, which the discs represent, always symbolizes everything material, tangible. These are finances, real estate, the fruits of labor and all those emotions that the possession of material values ​​causes. The main interpretation of cards by suit.

  • Ace is a small capital, profit from working on the land.
  • Two - changes, positive or neutral.
  • Three is work. The card indicates only the activity, not its result.
  • Four - strength, power.
  • Five - anxiety, complication of the situation.
  • Six is ​​a success.
  • Seven - defeat.
  • Eight - prudence, stability of position.
  • Nine is an acquisition, it can be material or energetic (finding a friend, stable relationships, etc.).
  • Ten - welfare, in money matters or in matters of human relations.
  • Prince - progress towards a material goal, receiving the fruits of his labor.
  • Princess - high material potential. In the scenario, it may indicate pregnancy.
  • Queen - growth, the emergence of vitality, the acquisition of a business to your liking, which will bear fruit.
  • Knight - indicates that the time has come to collect the fruits of your activity, to enjoy the process. Strong material card.

Fortune telling on the Tarot cards of Thoth will reveal life aspects, events and emotions in all their diversity. This amazing and unique deck is not inferior to the ancient Tarot cards, and in some ways even surpasses them. It was designed by its creator taking into account the fickle and cyclical nature of life. Crowley believed that magicians should reveal secrets, not create them, fooling everyone's head. He managed to fully embody the idea in his Tarot Thoth.