The Untold History of Tarot
Spirit Science・7 minutes read
Tarot cards have a complex history originating in 14th-century Europe, initially used for card games before being linked to ancient Egyptian mythology and Kabbalah by various scholars. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1888 further expanded Tarot's symbolism, connecting it to astrology, numerology, and hermeticism.
Insights
- Tarot cards have a rich history that includes connections to ancient Egyptian mythology, Kabbalah, and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, shaping its esoteric significance over time.
- The evolution of Tarot cards from a simple card game for the wealthy in 14th century Europe to a complex system intertwined with astrology, numerology, and hermeticism highlights its transformation into a tool for spiritual and mystical exploration.
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Recent questions
What is the origin of Tarot cards?
Tarot cards originated in mid-14th century Europe, initially used for card games by the young and wealthy. Some believe it originated in Italy, while others trace its roots back to Chinese playing cards from the Tang dynasty.
How did Tarot cards evolve over time?
Italian Tarot cards began with unnumbered major Arcana, but by 1490, Roman numerals were added, except for The Fool. Antoine Court de Gébelin in 1781 linked Tarot to ancient Egyptian mythology, marking The Fool as zero, adding an esoteric dimension.
What is the significance of The Fool in Tarot?
The Fool in Tarot is marked as zero and is linked to ancient Egyptian mythology by Antoine Court de Gébelin in 1781. This addition added an esoteric dimension to Tarot cards, connecting them to deeper spiritual meanings.
How did Tarot become popular in esoteric circles?
Eliphas Levi in the 19th century connected Tarot to Kabbalah, leading to its popularity in esoteric circles. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1888 further linked Tarot to astrology, numerology, and hermeticism, influencing modern occultism.
Are there any debates about the history of Tarot cards?
Yes, there are debates about the history of Tarot cards. Some believe it originated in Italy, while others trace its roots back to Chinese playing cards from the Tang dynasty. The varying perspectives contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding the true origins of Tarot.
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Summary
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Evolution of Tarot: From Games to Esoterica
- Tarot cards originated in mid-14th century Europe, initially used for card games by the young and wealthy.
- Italian Tarot cards began with unnumbered major Arcana, but by 1490, Roman numerals were added, except for The Fool.
- Antoine Court de Gébelin in 1781 linked Tarot to ancient Egyptian mythology, marking The Fool as zero, adding an esoteric dimension.
- Tarot's history is debated; some believe it originated in Italy, while others trace its roots back to Chinese playing cards from the Tang dynasty.
- Eliphas Levi in the 19th century connected Tarot to Kabbalah, leading to its popularity in esoteric circles.
- The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1888 further linked Tarot to astrology, numerology, and hermeticism, influencing modern occultism.
