Enochian Tarot represents a unique and intriguing approach to card reading, steeped in mystical tradition and ancient esoteric knowledge derived from the 16th-century works of Dr. John Dee. As a system said to have been communed with angels, it offers a distinct framework for understanding spiritual realms and providing guidance on life’s challenges and opportunities. This article explores the foundational aspects of Enochian Tarot, its structure, symbolism, and the interpretations of its cards, drawing exclusively from the provided source materials to offer a comprehensive overview for spiritual seekers and those interested in holistic energy work.
Understanding the Enochian System
The Enochian Tarot is deeply rooted in the Enochian system of magick, which was developed by Dr. John Dee, an influential occultist and mathematician, alongside his psychic partner Edward (or Edmond) Kelly. According to the source materials, this system was primarily used for ritual magic when it first emerged during Elizabethan times. The core of the system involves communication with the angelic realm, as the information was reportedly given to Dr. Dee through Edward Kelly in the Enochian language, also known as the language of the angels.
This tarot deck is described as being more than slightly non-traditional. Unlike conventional tarot systems that often follow Qabalistic thought, such as the Tree of Life, the Enochian universe as presented by John Dee consists of two parts: four Great Watchtowers and thirty Aethyrs or Aires. This structural difference is fundamental to the Enochian Tarot's design and interpretation.
The deck is based on the writings of Dr. John Dee and seeks to tap into the wisdom of this ancient, mystical knowledge. It is considered a system of divination and magic that can open a doorway to the divine, requiring a sense of reverence and respect for the sacred nature of the symbols and teachings it represents.
Deck Structure and Composition
There is some variation in the description of the deck's composition within the provided source data. One source states that the Enochian Tarot deck consists of 86 cards, numbered from 1 to 86. In this version, cards number 1-30 constitute the Major Arcana, while cards number 31-86 constitute the four suits. However, another source explicitly states that the deck consists of 78 cards, including the Major Arcana, court cards, and minor arcana. Furthermore, a specific characteristics table lists the number of cards as 22 and indicates that the deck has "No" suits and "No" minor arcana, with a "Yes" for Major Arcana. This table also identifies the creator as Gerald and Betty Schueler and the publication year as 1989. The source material provides these conflicting details regarding the exact number of cards and the presence of suits, which is an important consideration for those studying or utilizing this deck.
The Major Arcana cards in the Enochian Tarot are significant as they portray one of the Aethyrs. In the system described, the Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing a different archetypal energy or spiritual concept. These cards are viewed as the most powerful and significant in a reading, dealing with major life themes and lessons. The imagery on the cards is rich and multi-layered, drawing from sources such as Renaissance art, alchemy, astrology, and mythology. The cards often depict angels, mythical creatures, and scenes from Enochian mythology, serving as a tool for connecting with the divine and accessing hidden wisdom.
Key Symbols and Imagery
The symbolism within the Enochian Tarot is intricate and central to its practice. One of the most important symbols is the Enochian alphabet, which is used to represent the letters of the English alphabet. These symbols are often incorporated into the artwork of the cards, adding an extra layer of meaning and energy to the readings and allowing for a deeper connection with the divine.
Another crucial element is the Watchtowers, which are represented by the four suits of the minor arcana: fire, water, air, and earth. The Watchtowers are said to govern the energies of the four elements and provide a framework for understanding and working with these energies in ritual and magic. Each suit is associated with a different elemental Watchtower and possesses its own unique symbolism and meaning. The imagery on the cards is designed to facilitate a connection with these energies and the broader Enochian mythology.
Major Arcana Card Meanings
The Major Arcana cards provide insights into significant life themes and spiritual concepts. Based on the source material, several cards have specific interpretations:
- The Magus: This card represents the power of manifestation and creation. It signifies the ability to tap into the unlimited potential of the universe and bring desires into reality.
- The High Priestess: This card represents intuition, psychic abilities, and the mysteries of the unseen realms. It symbolizes the inner wisdom and divine feminine energy within individuals.
- The Emperor: This card represents authority, order, and stability. It signifies the ability to take charge of life and establish a solid foundation for success and growth.
- The Hanged Man: This card represents surrender, sacrifice, and letting go. It symbolizes the need to release control and trust in the divine plan, even when things seem uncertain or challenging.
These cards, as part of the Major Arcana, offer valuable guidance by helping individuals understand major life lessons and spiritual paths.
Court Cards and Their Representations
The court cards in the Enochian Tarot deck represent different personality types or archetypal figures that individuals may encounter in their lives. These cards often represent actual people or aspects of oneself. The court cards are divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles, each representing different elements and qualities. The following are examples provided in the source data:
- King of Cups: This card represents emotional maturity, compassion, and diplomacy. It signifies someone who is emotionally balanced and has a strong sense of empathy and intuition.
- Queen of Wands: This card represents passion, creativity, and leadership. It symbolizes someone who is confident, charismatic, and unafraid to take risks in pursuit of their goals.
- Knight of Swords: This card represents intellect, communication, and action. It signifies someone who is quick-witted, analytical, and skilled at problem-solving.
- Page of Pentacles: This card represents practicality, stability, and a strong work ethic. It symbolizes someone who is diligent, reliable, and committed to achieving their goals.
In a reading, these Major Arcana and court cards can provide valuable insights into different aspects of life, helping individuals understand their strengths, weaknesses, and potential for growth.
Practice and Interpretation
Enochian Tarot is used for divination and gaining insights into various aspects of life, similar to other tarot decks. The symbolism and imagery on the cards are interpreted to offer guidance, clarity, and advice on different situations and challenges. To interpret the cards effectively, one must understand the connection to the Enochian system and its unique symbolism.
The source material suggests that the deck and book should be purchased together, especially the companion book by Gerald Schueler entitled Enochian Tarot, due to the system's divergence from traditional tarot structures. The system employs a representation of the universe that differs from the Qabalistic system but is along the lines of Tarot and can justifiably be termed a Tarot deck.
While the source material mentions that the Enochian Tarot is a system of divination and magic, it does not provide specific rituals or practices associated with readings. It emphasizes the importance of approaching the cards with a sense of reverence and respect for the sacred nature of the symbols. The system invites users to explore the mysteries of the universe and unlock the secrets of their own soul, whether they are a seasoned tarot reader or a curious seeker.
Conclusion
The Enochian Tarot, derived from the angelic communications received by Dr. John Dee and Edward Kelly, offers a unique and profound tool for spiritual exploration and divination. Its structure, based on the four Great Watchtowers and thirty Aethyrs, and its rich symbolism, including the Enochian alphabet and elemental suits, distinguish it from traditional tarot decks. The Major Arcana cards address major life themes such as manifestation, intuition, authority, and surrender, while the court cards represent distinct personality archetypes. Although the source data presents some conflicting information regarding the deck's composition, the core essence of the Enochian Tarot remains a gateway to angelic wisdom and personal insight. For those seeking to delve into its mysteries, a respectful approach and a thorough study of its foundational texts are recommended to fully harness its potential for guidance and growth.