The Bonefire Tarot is a unique and evocative deck that invites users on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Created by Gabi Angus-West and published by Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. on November 28, 2016, this deck draws inspiration from traditional Russian folk art, resulting in a visually stunning aesthetic that combines pen and ink, charcoal, and digital techniques. It is designed for the severe life explorer, offering a tool that goes beyond the traditional to provide a deeper connection to the self. The deck is suitable for both seasoned tarot readers and beginners, as it comes with a detailed guidebook that explains the cards' meanings, including a comprehensive dictionary of symbols and their meanings, three basic spreads, and detailed articles.
The Bonefire Tarot is based on the traditional tarot structure but features a modern twist that makes it more accessible and user-friendly. It is divided into Major and Minor Arcana cards, with the Minor Arcana representing the various aspects of our lives and the Major Arcana representing the major archetypal energies at work. The deck is also divided into four suits: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water, each with its own meaning and symbolism. The deck encourages users to engage with the cards, dive deep into their symbolism and meaning, and use them as a tool for self-reflection, guidance, and personal growth. It can be used for traditional tarot readings or to explore the cards’ deeper meaning, with interpretations depending on the question asked and the context of the reading. There are no right or wrong answers; the point is to explore the possibilities and to find one's own truth.
Key Themes and Symbolism
The Bonefire Tarot is rich in themes and symbols that provide deeper insight into the meanings of the cards. One of the most prominent themes is the celebration of transformation and change. The deck draws inspiration from the concept of purging through fire, symbolizing the process of letting go of old patterns and embracing new beginnings. This theme is evident in the imagery of several cards, such as the Tower card, which depicts a crumbling tower being consumed by flames. This card represents sudden, disruptive change and the need to let go of old structures and beliefs that no longer serve us.
Another common theme in the Bonefire Tarot is the exploration of dualities and the interplay of opposites. Many cards in the deck feature contrasting elements, such as light and dark, masculine and feminine, and nature and technology. For example, the High Priestess card showcases a woman sitting in a field of flowers, with a skull and a book of esoteric knowledge by her side. This card represents the balance between intuition and logic, mystery and wisdom.
Fire is a defining symbol throughout the deck. Flames dance and flicker on many of the cards, symbolizing the transformative power of fire and its ability to burn away what no longer serves us. Fire represents passion, creativity, and enlightenment. It is a symbol of purification and a catalyst for change. The use of fire throughout the Bonefire Tarot creates a sense of energy and vitality, drawing the user into a world of magic and possibility. The presence of fire in a card can indicate a need for action, energy, and a willingness to take risks.
The skull is one of the most recognizable symbols in the deck, appearing in various forms throughout the cards. The skull is often associated with mortality, reminding us of our own impermanence and the need to live each moment to its fullest. It can also symbolize the stripping away of superficial layers to reveal the truth beneath.
The use of color is also significant in the Bonefire Tarot. The deck features a rich and vibrant color palette, with each card carefully designed to evoke a specific mood or atmosphere. For example, the Fool card is bathed in shades of yellow and orange, symbolizing the energy of new beginnings and the courage to step into the unknown. The use of color in the Bonefire Tarot adds depth and nuance to the interpretations of the cards, allowing for a more immersive and intuitive reading experience. The bold colors, symbolic imagery, and fine details evoke a sense of mystery and enchantment that draws the reader deeper into the reading.
Animal Archetypes and Unique Features
A unique aspect of the Bonefire Tarot is the inclusion of animal archetypes in the Major Arcana cards. Each card is not only associated with a traditional tarot meaning but also represents a specific animal and its symbolism. This adds an extra layer of depth and meaning to the readings, as the animal archetypes can provide additional insights and connections. The Majors feature archetypal characters who will play roles in our lives as elements of ourselves or events we will undoubtedly experience.
The Bonefire Tarot also offers a unique reading structure called the "Twisted Tree Spread." This spread is specifically designed for use with the Bonefire Tarot and incorporates the animal archetypes and elements of the cards. It provides a comprehensive and insightful reading that delves into various aspects of one's life, relationships, and personal journey.
One of the key benefits of using the Bonefire Tarot is its ability to bring clarity to complex situations and offer guidance when navigating challenging circumstances. The evocative imagery and symbolism of the cards can help the reader gain a fresh perspective on their situation and find new solutions or approaches. The Bonefire Tarot encourages personal empowerment and self-discovery, allowing individuals to embrace their authentic selves and make choices aligned with their true desires.
Creator's Intention and Personal Growth
The creator's intention for the Bonefire Tarot is to serve as a tool for self-reflection, growth, and transformation. It encourages the reader to tap into their inner wisdom and instincts, to trust their intuition, and to embrace their shadow self. The deck invites the reader to explore their fears, desires, and hidden aspects of their psyche, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the unknown.
The Bonefire Tarot is a powerful tool that can be used for personal growth and self-reflection. This unique tarot deck, created by Gabi Angus-West, combines traditional Tarot symbolism with her own artistic style, resulting in a deck that is both visually stunning and spiritually resonant. It stands out from other tarot decks due to its captivating artwork, inclusion of animal archetypes, and intention to evoke primal instincts and authentic self-reflection. It offers a unique reading experience that combines traditional tarot meanings with personal symbolism, providing a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.
Conclusion
The Bonefire Tarot is a powerful and evocative tarot deck that serves as a comprehensive tool for divination, self-discovery, and personal growth. Through its unique blend of traditional tarot structure, Russian folk art inspiration, and profound symbolism—particularly the central themes of transformation through fire, dualities, and animal archetypes—it offers a distinctive pathway for exploring the self. The deck’s intricate artwork, detailed guidebook, and specialized tools like the "Twisted Tree Spread" empower users to navigate life's complexities, embrace change, and connect with their inner wisdom. Whether used for seeking clarity, embracing one's shadow self, or simply exploring the rich tapestry of personal symbolism, the Bonefire Tarot provides an accessible and deeply resonant experience for those on a journey of self-reflection.