Having given up on single-card daily draws years ago as relatively meaningless for most "real-world" purposes, I'm constantly tinkering with more advanced ways to increase the mileage I get from daily, weekly and monthly self-readings. Here is my latest effort. It uses the Golden Dawn's Chaldean wheels of astrological correspondences (developed by and offered free … Continue reading The “Chaldean Mirror” Daily Meditation Spread
Tarot
The Pangloss Syndrome
Because I try to post something new almost every day, I'm delighted by how often random forum conversations serve up grist for my philosophical mill. Today I was talking to katrinka/fennario (Stella Waldvogel) on one of the cartomancy forums about the book Tarot on Earth by Tom Benjamin, who apparently subscribes to the belief that, … Continue reading The Pangloss Syndrome
The Gold Standard
It's a rare tarot deck that doesn't have a single fan of its charms, even if appreciation is limited to the deck's creator or reserved for a particular purpose (such as esoteric study, self-reflection or divination). Generally, it's the skill of the artist that garners the most interest followed by the accessibility of the symbolism … Continue reading The Gold Standard
Signs, Signs . . .
"Everything is a sign." (Yoav Ben-Dov, The Open Reading) As a life-long student of all things occult (even though I've gained no more than a nodding acquaintance with some of them), I've formed definite opinions about the "inner workings" of divination. In a shamanistic sense, what we're looking for are "signs" that point toward intimations … Continue reading Signs, Signs . . .
A “Tarot and Trauma” Vignette
Early last week while working on a construction project at home, I fell off a 4-foot step-stool while dismounting with tools in my hand when it tipped on the carpet. I landed on my feet and was immediately thrown off-balance (hold that thought, it's significant here), briskly back-pedaling my way into the corner of a … Continue reading A “Tarot and Trauma” Vignette
“What’s Up, Doc?” – A Whole-Health Profile Spread
I knew I'd get around to using Bugs Bunny's signature greeting sooner or later! The accepted wisdom among diviners is that, unless one is properly trained and licensed (not to mention insured) to do so, it is prudent to stay far away from attempting to answer questions about medical diagnoses and treatment recommendations. Sound advice … Continue reading “What’s Up, Doc?” – A Whole-Health Profile Spread
Perfect Is As Perfect Does
One fascinating question that often comes up in conversation with tarot novices is "What is the perfect deck for my first one?" Usually they know that the Rider Waite Smith (RWS) deck in one of its numerous incarnations is recommended by most experienced readers as a good place to start, and the broad, deep field … Continue reading Perfect Is As Perfect Does
A Romantic Interlude Sample Reading
I was asked to write up a sample reading for this spread to show how it is to be approached, and chose this real-life scenario. I used the Golden Universal Tarot for the querent's line and the RWS Centennial Edition for the love interest's "moving lines." The querent is a young professional man and the … Continue reading A Romantic Interlude Sample Reading
The “Just Passin’ Through” Romantic Interlude Spread
This spread is intended to be used when considering the advisability of making overtures to a potential love interest (for example, when eyeing the proverbial “workplace dalliance”). Given the relative impermanence of modern romantic liaisons, it's not an accident that the layout simulates a question mark. Many of us have had the bittersweet romantic experience … Continue reading The “Just Passin’ Through” Romantic Interlude Spread
The Fateful Dodger
This post is a continuation of my earlier thoughts on the subject of fate. I was just reading the Art of Cartomancy blog run by cartomancer extraordinaire Kapherus, in which the nature of fate or destiny was debated. Comments were closed and I wasn't able to add to the discussion, so I'm bringing my observations … Continue reading The Fateful Dodger
Parsifal's Wheel Tarot & Astrology 