The DruidCraft Tarot stands as a significant work within the modern spiritual landscape, offering a synthesis of traditional Tarot structure with the rich symbolism of Earth-based religions. Created by Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm with artwork by Will Worthington, this deck is described as a "visual/spiritual/intellectual feast" that bridges the gap between the everyday world and a mystical realm of symbolism. It is designed to serve as a gateway to the inner spiritual world, deepening one's connection with the natural wisdom of the earth. By integrating the teachings of Wicca and Druidry with the traditional Major and Minor Arcana, the DruidCraft Tarot provides a comprehensive tool for introspection, guidance, and personal growth.
The deck and its accompanying guidebook have been noted for their attention to detail, from the unique typeface created for the card titles to the richly colored imagery that invites the user to enter the scenes depicted. It is widely regarded as a resource suitable for both beginners and experienced readers, particularly those drawn to Pagan, Wiccan, or Druid traditions. The system emphasizes the relationship between the cards and the natural cycles, the life of Merlin, and the principles of numerology, offering a distinct approach to Tarot interpretation that is both accessible and profound.
The Philosophy and Creation of the Deck
The DruidCraft Tarot is rooted in the vision of bringing the fundamental spiritualities of Nature—specifically Wicca and Druidry—to the traditional art of the Tarot. The creators, Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm, are established figures in the Mind, Body, and Spirit (MBS) pagan movement and have long served as leaders of a large international druid organization. Their expertise lends a layer of authority and deep knowledge to the project. The artist, Will Worthington, is a practicing Druid and a respected illustrator of several oracle decks, including the Celtic Lenormand. His work on the DruidCraft Tarot is consistently praised for its stunning quality and ability to evoke narrative and intuition.
The deck’s philosophy is deeply connected to Earth-based religion. It is designed to remind users of "who you are, and of who you might become" by calling upon a world of symbolism just beyond the everyday. The imagery is thoroughly researched and rooted in ancient storytelling, serving as a powerful tool for accessing one's inner spiritual world. The creators have drawn connections between Wicca, Paganism, Druidry, and the Tarot, a synthesis that reviewers have described as "ground breaking." This integration allows the deck to function not merely as a set of divination tools, but as a complete system for spiritual practice rooted in the living earth.
One of the defining characteristics of the deck is its commitment to inclusivity and realism in its depiction of people. A review from a Tarot instructor with twenty years of experience highlights the deck's adherence to principles of being non-racist, non-hierarchal, and non-sexist. The court cards, in particular, are noted for presenting a "plethora of people that appear uniquely individual." Unlike decks that feature idealized or "magazine perfect" figures, the characters in the DruidCraft Tarot are portrayed as real people of all age groups, projecting an amazing warmth and authenticity. This approach allows for a deeper level of relatability and connection for the user, who may see reflections of themselves or people they know within the cards.
Structure and Unique Nomenclature
While the DruidCraft Tarot adheres to the traditional structure of 78 cards divided into the Major and Minor Arcana, it introduces specific name changes that reflect its unique spiritual orientation. These changes are significant and are explained in the accompanying guidebook to align the cards more closely with Druidic and Wiccan traditions. The modifications are as follows:
- The Empress is reimagined as The Lady.
- The Emperor becomes The Lord.
- The Hierophant is renamed The High Priest.
- Temperance is known as The Fferyllt.
- The Devil is depicted as Cernunnos, the horned god of nature.
- Judgement is framed as Rebirth.
These changes are not merely cosmetic; they signal a shift in perspective, inviting the user to engage with the archetypes through a different cultural and spiritual lens. The Minor Arcana remains consistent with the traditional suits, though the presentation and interpretation are infused with the deck's Earth-based philosophy. The guidebook is structured to give the Minor Arcana precedence, beginning with the Princesses (Pages), moving through the court cards, and then the pip cards (Ace through Ten) before concluding with the Major Arcana. The authors explain this ordering is to ensure the Minor Arcana receives the attention it deserves in the learning process.
The Guidebook and Interpretive Method
The fully illustrated guidebook that accompanies the deck is a crucial component of the DruidCraft Tarot system. It is a 192-page book that goes beyond simple keyword definitions to explore the deep relationship between the cards and the teachings of Druidry and Wicca. The book is praised for being "warm, insightful, and honest," and for making the court cards feel much more accessible than is typical in Tarot literature.
Each card in the deck is pictured alongside its text, which includes keywords and both upright and reversed meanings. For the Major Arcana, a specific message is provided, and reversal keywords are also included. This comprehensive approach provides a solid foundation for learning and interpretation. The book also delves into the inspiration behind the deck, offering a brief background on Earth-based religion, numerology, and the life of Merlin. This contextual information enriches the user's understanding, allowing them to connect with the cards on an intellectual and spiritual level, not just an intuitive one.
The interpretive method encouraged by the deck is both structured and intuitive. For those who prefer a more intuitive approach, the artwork itself is a powerful guide. The scenes are so vivid and detailed that they invite the reader to simply ask, "What do I see?" and allow a story to unfold. This makes the deck particularly well-suited for intuitive readers. At the same time, the detailed guidebook provides a reliable framework for those who prefer a more traditional or academic approach to Tarot reading.
Spreads and Practical Application
The guidebook includes a selection of spreads designed to work in harmony with the deck's philosophy. While many Tarot books offer a multitude of spreads, the DruidCraft Tarot focuses on a few key layouts that are both user-friendly and insightful.
One of the primary spreads presented is The Hexagram Spread, a six-card layout that provides a comprehensive view of a situation. A reviewer noted that this spread is easy to use and delivers insightful readings, making it a valuable addition to any Tarot practice.
Another unique layout is the Lunar Spread, which utilizes the phases of the moon to explore the creative process and identify projects that may require nurturing. This spread directly connects the Tarot practice to the cycles of nature, a central tenet of Druidry and Wicca.
Finally, the book reinterprets the classic Celtic Cross spread, a staple for general readings. The authors suggest viewing this spread as a "Chalice and Wand" layout, which works with the central idea of the DruidCraft: that the combination of two distinct forces (represented by the Chalice and the Wand) creates life and movement. This reframing of a traditional spread demonstrates the deck's ability to offer new dimensions of meaning even to experienced Tarotists.
Suitability and Reception
The DruidCraft Tarot has been received with widespread acclaim from both newcomers and seasoned practitioners. It is frequently recommended as an ideal resource for those new to Tarot, as well as for those new to the study of Wiccan and Druidic traditions. The combination of beautiful illustrations and a well-written book creates a holistic learning experience. For experienced Tarot readers, the deck is said to open a "new dimension of meaning and interpretation," particularly for those who already work within Wiccan or Druidic systems.
The deck's imagery is a key factor in its popularity. The cards are described as "stunning," "richly coloured," and "intuitive." They are noted for their ability to invite the user into the scene, fostering a personal connection and stimulating the imagination. The artwork is so evocative that some users report experiencing the sensation of having been in the depicted places or having met the people shown in the cards. This level of immersion makes the DruidCraft Tarot a powerful tool for self-reflection and guided meditation.
It is important to note that the deck includes depictions of nudity. This is presented as an authentic representation of the human form within a natural and spiritual context. However, a practical consideration is offered: readers should be quick to warn clients about this feature, as individuals who are not comfortable with nudity may not be a suitable audience for this particular deck. This transparency ensures that the deck is used appropriately and respectfully in professional and personal settings.
The physical quality of the deck has also been a point of discussion. The original cards were noted to be quite large (over 14cm x 9cm) and featured significant borders. Some users have opted to trim the cards to remove the borders, resulting in a borderless deck that measures approximately 12.5 cm x 7.5 cm, which they find easier to handle and aesthetically preferable. Despite this preference among some, the attention to detail in the original production, including the custom-designed typeface, is highly commendable and speaks to the quality of the overall set.
Conclusion
The DruidCraft Tarot is a comprehensive and beautifully crafted system that successfully merges the traditional framework of Tarot with the deep, earth-centered wisdom of Druidry and Wicca. Through its stunning artwork, thoughtful nomenclature, and insightful guidebook, it offers a unique pathway for spiritual exploration. It serves as a bridge to the natural world, reminding users of the cycles and rhythms that govern life, and encouraging a deeper connection with their own inner landscape. Whether used for personal introspection, guidance for others, or as a tool for creative exploration, the DruidCraft Tarot stands as a modern classic, offering a rich, inclusive, and profoundly intuitive experience for all who are drawn to its beauty and depth.