The Brotherhood of Light Egyptian Tarot represents a profound integration of ancient spiritual systems, serving as a bridge between the esoteric traditions of Egypt and modern metaphysical study. This deck is not merely a tool for divination but a comprehensive system of symbolic pictographs through which Egyptian initiates conveyed spiritual ideas derived from a still more ancient past. As described in the source material, the deck functions as a key to understanding the relationships between the Tarot, Kabbalah, astrology, and ancient numerology. The core philosophy of this deck posits that while astrology is the Golden Key, the Tarot is the Silver Key, offering a unique lens through which seekers can access hidden knowledge.
What distinguishes this deck is its meticulous integration of multiple mystical frameworks. Each card acts as a cartouche, containing a specific message for the seeker. The system is built upon the correspondence of the 12 zodiacal signs and 36 decanate constellations with the Major and Minor Arcana. Furthermore, the symbolism of colors and geometric shapes is deeply woven into the fabric of the cards, providing layers of meaning that extend beyond simple imagery. This approach allows for a multi-dimensional reading experience, where planetary positions, astrological signs, and numerological values are instantly accessible to the reader.
The historical lineage of the Brotherhood of Light Tarot is significant. The original black and white version was published in 1936 by the Church of Light, with card designs by Gloria Beresford. In 2003, Vicki Brewer redrew the original black and white images, and in 2009, she redesigned the cards as the full-color Egyptian Tarot deck available today. Accompanying the deck is a 48-page instruction booklet excerpted from The Sacred Tarot by C. C. Zain, providing brief descriptions and interpretations for all 78 cards—22 Major Arcana, 40 Minor Arcana, and 16 Court Cards—along with instructions for using two popular spreads. For those seeking a deeper dive, the corresponding book, The Sacred Tarot, offers a more detailed exposition on divination and spiritual science.
The Astrological and Numerological Framework
The Brotherhood of Light Tarot is fundamentally an astrological and numerological system. The source material emphasizes that the deck "correctly indicates the astrological correspondence on each card and the numerological symbolism associated with the Roman, Hebrew, and Egyptian alphabets." This tri-lingual approach to numerology adds a layer of complexity and depth rarely found in other decks. The integration of these systems allows the reader to see the interplay between the planets, the zodiac, and the numbers that govern the cards.
The deck's structure reflects the cosmic order. The circle of the key on the front of the deck, for instance, is divided into the four suits, with numbers 1 through 9 corresponding to planetary positions within constellations. For example, the "3 of Swords" (referred to as the "Trey of Swords" in the source, highlighting the deck's old-fashioned aspects) explicitly shows Mercury, Capricorn, and Virgo. This direct visual representation of astrological associations means that the reader does not have to memorize correspondences; they are embedded within the card's design.
Numerology is expressed through the arrangement of icons in the Minor Arcana, which follows a Marseilles-style pattern. The icons are arranged in specific geometric formations that correspond to their numerical value: - Aces: The icon stands alone. - Deuces (Twos): Scepters and Swords are crossed; Cups and Coins are side by side. - Treys (Threes): All are in the form of a triangle. - Fours: All are in the form of a square. - Fives: Scepters and Swords are crossed; Cups and Coins form "X"s. - Sixes: Show two triangles. - Sevens: Show an upper triangle and a lower square. - Eights: Show two squares. - Nines: Show three triangles.
This systematic approach to the Minor Arcana ensures that the numerological energy is visually communicated, reinforcing the seeker's understanding of the card's vibration.
Symbolism, Color, and Geometric Integration
The Brotherhood of Light Tarot integrates the symbolism of colors and geometric shapes to convey spiritual messages. The artwork is described as "Egyptian minimalist," utilizing pastel colors of yellow, green, blue, and orange. This color palette is not arbitrary; it reflects the vibrational qualities associated with the cards' themes. The minimalist style ensures that the focus remains on the symbolic elements rather than distracting artistic flourishes.
The geometric shapes are particularly important in the Minor Arcana, as detailed in the numerological section. However, the geometric integration extends to the card backs as well. The back of the cards features two mirrored images with core diamond shapes, inspired by the traditional "carpet pages" found in illuminated ancient manuscripts. This design choice reinforces the idea of balance, reflection, and the sacred geometry that underpins the universe.
The cards are also rich in glyphs and characters. Hebrew characters are present alongside the Roman and Egyptian alphabets, linking the system to the Kabbalah. Astrology, alchemy, and magic are continuously expressed through these symbols. Each card is a cartouche—a sealed container of knowledge waiting to be unlocked by the seeker's capacity for understanding. As noted in the source, "What the tarot can be made to reveal is limited only by the capacity for understanding of the person using it."
The Structure of the Deck and the "Horsemen"
The deck consists of 78 full-color cards, sized 2½ x 4½ inches, coated for durability. The structure includes the standard Major and Minor Arcana, but with a unique thematic twist. One specific adaptation noted in the reviews is the portrayal of the "Horsemen." In this deck, the Horsemen are placed where one would usually see Knights in traditional Tarot decks. This substitution reflects the Egyptian and metaphysical orientation of the deck, perhaps linking these figures to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse or other archetypal forces within the system of the Church of Light.
The 16 Court Cards (Pages, Knights, Queens, Kings) are included, though the specific titles may vary to fit the Egyptian theme (such as the Horsemen). The Minor Arcana consists of 40 cards (10 per suit), and the Major Arcana consists of 22 cards. The accompanying booklet provides brief descriptions for each, serving as a starting point for the user. However, the source material suggests that the true depth of the deck is revealed when used in conjunction with the companion book, The Sacred Tarot. One reviewer advises that the deck "be used with the companion book," noting that it is of interest as a theme deck, for its artwork, as a collector's item, or as a reading deck for someone with a basic knowledge of Tarot.
Practical Application and User Experience
The Brotherhood of Light Egyptian Tarot is designed for practical application in divination and spiritual guidance. The 48-page instruction booklet included with the deck outlines the history of the deck and provides instructions for use, including various spreads. The system is described as "metaphysically integrated," making it a valuable tool for those who study astrology. As one user, Allyn McCray, a Church of Light Hermetician and Certified Teacher, states, "If you're an astrologer, this is a must-have deck."
The deck facilitates a synthesis of interests. Users who are versed in both Tarot and astrology will find that the inclusion of planets and signs on each card provides instant access to more information that can be shared with clients. The deck allows for a "romance" with the cards, as described by Kayla Garnet Rose, who notes that receiving the deck reminds her that the Tarot is a lifetime romance. The deck is not just a tool but a companion for spiritual growth and exploration.
The geometric and numerological cues (such as the triangle for the Trey of Swords) allow for a quick reference system during readings. The minimalist Marseilles style of the Minor Arcana focuses the mind on the essential symbols: Scepters (Wands), Swords, Cups, and Coins (Pentacles). The arrangement of these symbols on the cards provides a visual language that corresponds to the numerical value of the card, aiding in the intuitive interpretation of the reading.
Historical Context and Evolution
Understanding the evolution of this deck provides insight into its authority and authenticity. The lineage begins with the Church of Light, an organization dedicated to the study of Hermetic sciences. The original 1936 publication by Gloria Beresford laid the groundwork for the symbolic system. The 2003 redrawing and 2009 full-color redesign by Vicki Brewer made the deck more accessible and visually engaging while preserving the original esoteric integrity.
The accompanying text, The Sacred Tarot by C. C. Zain, is presented as the definitive source for detailed exposition. C. C. Zain is a foundational figure in the Church of Light's teachings, and the excerpted booklet is derived from this authoritative text. This connection to established spiritual literature distinguishes the Brotherhood of Light Tarot from decks that are purely artistic creations without a deep textual or historical foundation.
The deck's history underscores its purpose: to serve as a vehicle for the "spiritual ideas derived from a still more ancient past." It is a preservation of Egyptian initiatory knowledge, transmitted through the medium of the Tarot. The integration of Kabbalah (via Hebrew characters), astrology, and numerology suggests a "universal" system of truth that encompasses multiple traditions.
The Role of the Seeker
A central tenet of the Brotherhood of Light Tarot is the active role of the seeker. The cards are described as cartouche, containing messages, but the revelation of these messages depends on the user. The quote, "What the tarot can be made to reveal is limited only by the capacity for understanding of the person using it," highlights that the deck is a mirror reflecting the user's own insight. This places the responsibility on the user to study the symbols, understand the correspondences, and develop their intuition.
For the modern user, this means that the deck is best approached as a study tool. While the included booklet offers basic interpretations, the full potential is unlocked through the study of the companion book and the underlying systems of astrology and numerology. The deck rewards the diligent student with layers of meaning that unfold over time. The geometric patterns in the Minor Arcana, for example, offer a visual mnemonic for the energy of the numbers, which can be internalized through practice.
The deck also serves as a bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind. The use of symbols—universal archetypes drawn from Egyptian mythology and Hermetic tradition—bypasses the logical mind and speaks directly to the intuitive faculties. The minimalist style prevents over-complication, allowing the core energy of the symbol to be felt.
Synthesis of Spiritual Sciences
The Brotherhood of Light Egyptian Tarot is unique in its synthesis of spiritual sciences. It does not treat Tarot, Astrology, and Numerology as separate disciplines but as interlocking parts of a single whole. The "Golden Key" of astrology and the "Silver Key" of Tarot work together to open the doors of perception.
This synthesis is evident in the visual design of the cards. A single card might contain: 1. Astrological Glyphs: Indicating the ruling planet and zodiac sign. 2. Numerological Value: Expressed through the geometric arrangement of the suit symbols. 3. Alphabetical Correspondence: Roman, Hebrew, and Egyptian letters associated with the card. 4. Color Symbolism: Pastel hues that vibrate with specific frequencies. 5. Geometric Shapes: Diamonds, triangles, and squares that reinforce the numerical energy.
This multi-layered approach ensures that every reading is rich with potential connections. A reader can focus on the astrological implications (e.g., the influence of Mercury in the Trey of Swords), the numerological vibration (the energy of the number 3), or the elemental suit (Swords/Mental realm). The deck facilitates a holistic view of the seeker's situation.
The "Horsemen" and the Minor Arcana
The substitution of Knights with "Horsemen" is a significant thematic choice. In the context of the Church of Light's teachings, the Horsemen likely represent active, dynamic forces that drive change. In traditional Tarot, Knights represent movement, action, and the transmission of the suit's energy. The Horsemen may imply a more collective or archetypal force, perhaps linked to the four elements or the four directions.
The Minor Arcana structure, with its strict adherence to geometric progression, suggests a mathematical precision to the universe. The progression from the single icon of the Ace to the complex grouping of the Nine mirrors the unfolding of creation. The Ace is pure potential; the Nine is the culmination of the cycle before returning to the Ten (which often implies completion or a new beginning). By visualizing these numbers as shapes, the user can better grasp the "shape" of the energy they are dealing with.
For example, the "X" shape formed by the Cups and Coins in the Fives suggests a crossing or a conflict of emotions or material resources. The crossed Scepters and Swords in the Fives suggest a similar conflict in the areas of will and intellect. These visual cues are immediate and require no memorization once the pattern is understood.
The Companion Book: The Sacred Tarot
The source material repeatedly emphasizes the importance of the companion book, The Sacred Tarot by C. C. Zain. The 48-page booklet is described as an excerpt, providing "brief descriptions." The implication is that the full depth of the system requires the study of the larger text. This book is positioned as the authority for "divination and spiritual science."
For the serious student of Vastu, Tarot, Numerology, and holistic energy, the companion book would likely explain the vibrational correlations between the cards and the physical world. While the current source data does not detail the contents of The Sacred Tarot, the context suggests it expands on the "Golden Key" and "Silver Key" metaphors, providing the theoretical framework that binds the deck together.
The availability of the book in various formats—Student Print, Hard Bound, eBook PDF, iOs/Android, and Kindle—indicates the Church of Light's commitment to making this knowledge accessible. This accessibility supports the holistic approach advocated by Dr. Riddhe Sshilpi, where spiritual tools should be available to those seeking balance and harmony.
Conclusion
The Brotherhood of Light Egyptian Tarot is a sophisticated metaphysical tool that transcends simple fortune-telling. It is a comprehensive system that weaves together astrology, numerology, Kabbalah, and Egyptian symbolism into a cohesive whole. Through its minimalist artwork, geometric precision, and rich historical lineage, it offers the seeker a path to deeper understanding.
The deck's unique features—such as the visual representation of astrological correspondences, the geometric arrangement of the Minor Arcana, and the inclusion of multiple alphabets—make it a "must-have" for astrologers and a valuable resource for those interested in the synthesis of spiritual sciences. While the included booklet provides an introduction, the true mastery of this deck is found in the study of its companion text, The Sacred Tarot.
Ultimately, the deck serves as a reminder that the Tarot is a "lifetime romance," a relationship between the seeker and the symbols that evolve over time. By engaging with the Brotherhood of Light Tarot, users can access the "Silver Key" to unlock the mysteries of their own lives and the universe, guided by the ancient wisdom of Egyptian initiates and the structured logic of Hermetic science.