50: The Tarot • Part 1: Tarot's Origins & The Archetypes of the Collective Unconscious

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Mar 19, 2025

Dive into the intriguing origins of Tarot, tracing its roots back to the ancient cultural hub of Alexandria, Egypt. Discover how Tarot evolved from sacred texts into a powerful divination tool and explore the symbolism behind its cards. The discussion connects Tarot's Major Arcana to Jungian archetypes, revealing how these cards mirror psychological truths. Engage in self-discovery through the irrational nature of Tarot, and understand how its archetypes shape personal identity and experiences.

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INSIGHT

Egyptian Tarot Origin Myth

The Egyptian origin story of tarot is a myth blending facts and imagination.
Its persistence shows tarot's timeless symbols resonate beyond cultural origin myths.

INSIGHT

Oldest Tarot Reference Found

The earliest tarot mention is from a 1400s Catholic sermon condemning them as demonic.
It lists 21 triumph cards matching tarot's Major Arcana, affirming the deck's early existence and structure.

INSIGHT

Tarot Deck Structure Explained

A tarot deck has 78 cards split into Major (22) and Minor (56) Arcana.
Major Arcana cards are numbered and allegorical; the Fool is an ambiguous, liminal figure.

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The encyclopedia of tarot

Stuart R. Kaplan

Jean Huets

Stuart R. Kaplan's "The Encyclopedia of Tarot" is a definitive resource for anyone interested in the history and symbolism of the Tarot. The book provides a detailed overview of the Tarot's evolution, from its origins in 15th-century Italy to its diverse interpretations across cultures and time periods. Kaplan's scholarship is meticulous, drawing on historical documents and visual analysis of Tarot decks to illuminate the cards' rich symbolism. The encyclopedia is an invaluable tool for researchers, collectors, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Tarot's multifaceted nature. It's a comprehensive and authoritative work that sets a high standard for Tarot scholarship.

Tarot and the Archetypal Journey

Sallie Nichols

Sallie Nichols' "Tarot and the Archetypal Journey" explores the profound connection between the Tarot and Jungian psychology. The book delves into the archetypal symbolism of the Tarot cards, demonstrating how they reflect universal patterns of the human psyche. Nichols provides a framework for understanding the Tarot through the lens of Jungian concepts such as the collective unconscious, individuation, and shadow work. The book encourages readers to use the Tarot as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth, facilitating a deeper understanding of their own inner world. It's a valuable resource for those interested in exploring the psychological dimensions of the Tarot.

The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious

Jung, C. G.

Carl Gustav Jung

This book features many of Jung's most important essays on archetypes and the collective unconscious. It explores the idea that there is a deeper, universal level of the unconscious that contains archetypes, which are preexistent thought forms common to all humans. These archetypes manifest in dreams, myths, and fairytales, and play a crucial role in the psychological process of individuation. The essays discuss various archetypes such as the persona, the shadow, the anima or animus, and the self, and how they influence human psychology and behavior. The book also includes a pictorial section with examples of archetypal images drawn by Jung's patients, illustrating the universal nature of these symbols[1][2][5].

Man and His Symbols

Marie-Louise von Franz

Jolande Jacobi

Carl Gustav Jung

Joseph L. Henderson

Aniela Jaffé

This book is an introduction to Carl Jung's work and ideas, particularly his theory of the unconscious and its role in human psychology. It emphasizes the importance of dreams and symbols in understanding the unconscious mind. The book is divided into five parts, each written by Jung or his closest associates, and includes chapters on approaching the unconscious, primitive myths, the process of individuation, symbolism in art, and symbols in individual analysis. Jung's concept of individuation, where the conscious and unconscious minds learn to live in harmony, is a central theme. The book is richly illustrated and provides insights into how symbols in dreams reflect and influence our lives.

78 Degrees of Wisdom

Rachel Pollack

The Way of the Tarot

The Spiritual Teacher in the Cards

Alejandro Jodorowsky