Two Kinds of Tarot Decks

The world of divination is as vast as the sea, with one of its most beloved methods being tarot readings. Tarot decks, the foundation of these readings, come in a myriad of forms, with each unique deck offering a different perspective. Among these, two types stand out: the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith deck and the esoteric Thoth deck.

Before delving into these two types, it's important to understand that tarot decks are not just collections of cards; they are metaphysical portals, each with its distinct voice and storyline.

The Traditional Rider-Waite-Smith Deck

The Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck is the most popular and widely used tarot deck worldwide. Created by Arthur Edward Waite in collaboration with illustrator Pamela Colman Smith in 1909, this deck brought significant changes to traditional tarot, making it more accessible to the masses.

With its detailed, color-rich illustrations, the RWS deck provides a wealth of visual information that aids in interpretation. Each card is a vibrant story, making it easier for both beginners and experienced readers to understand and connect with its meanings.

Pips and Court Cards

The RWS deck features pip cards ( Ace through 10) and court cards with completely illustrated scenes. Unlike previous decks where these cards were merely numbered or named, the RWS deck provides a storyline for every card, offering a deeper insight into its meaning.

For instance, the Three of Swords is not just a card with three swords; it's a scene of heartbreak, where three swords pierce a heart, symbolizing emotional pain. These detailed illustrations make the RWS deck richer in symbolism and storytelling.

Major Arcana Changes

The RWS deck also altered the traditional Major Arcana. Instead of just numbers, the Major Arcana cards have titles that describe the scene. The Wheel of Fortune, for example, is labeled as such, rather than being just 'X' (where 'X' is the numerical value in older decks).

Moreover, some Major Arcana were given new titles or had their sequences altered. The Hermit, for instance, moved from the eighth to the ninth position, making room for Strength at eight. These changes, while controversial among purists, have made the RWS deck more user-friendly and embraced by many readers.

The Esoteric Thoth Deck

The Thoth deck, created by Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris in the 1940s, is a sophisticated and complex tarot deck. It's not recommended for beginners due to its esoteric nature and detailed symbolism, but it offers a wealth of interpretative depth to experienced readers.

The Thoth deck is a goldmine for those interested in esoteric and occult symbolism. Its cards are rich in Egyptian, Qabalistic, and alchemical symbolism, reflecting Crowley's interest in these subjects. The color schemes, unlike the RWS, are minimalistic, with cards often featuring only a few bold colors.

Minimalistic Design

The Thoth deck's design focuses on geometry, symbols, and Egyptian art. This minimalism might initially seems stark compared to the RWS, but it invites contemplation and individual interpretation. The Three of Swords, for instance, is illustrated not as a heart being pierced, but as a circled triangle with three swords crossing it. This abstract representation allows readers to explore their own understanding of the card's meaning.

Moreover, the Thoth deck assigns specific colors to each suit, further emphasizing its systematic and structured approach. Swords (now known as Wands) are red, Cups are blue, Disks (now known as Pentacles) are gold, and Wands (formerly known as Swords) are grey. This color scheme echoes the Qabalistic attributions, providing another layer of depth for readers to explore.

Structure and Naming

The Thoth deck maintains the original order of the Major Arcana. However, it renames some cards based on Crowley's Thelema philosophy. The Chariot, for example, is renamed CHOKMACH, a form of the Hebrew word for 'wisdom'. Such changes reflect Crowley's aim to re-energize and transform tarot to reflect his personal beliefs and esoteric understanding.

Furthermore, the Thoth deck structures its Minor Arcana cards differently. All pip cards (Aces through 10) are given an astrological sign and associated with a specific Hebrew letter. This further emphasizes the deck's esoteric nature and its grounding in Qabalistic thought.

Both the Rider-Waite-Smith and Thoth decks offer unique insights into the tarot world. The RWS deck, with its detailed illustrations, is a great starting point for beginners. Meanwhile, the Thoth deck, with its rich esoteric symbolism, caters to experienced readers looking for deeper, more complex interpretations. So, whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned tarot reader, exploring these decks can invigorate and enhance your tarot practice. Happy reading!