The Greenwood Tarot is recognized as a unique and profound system of divination that draws its inspiration from pre-Celtic shamanism, the traditions of the mythic forest, and the cyclical nature of the Wheel of the Year. Created through a collaborative effort between artist Chesca Potter and writer Mark Ryan, first published in 1996, this deck seeks to trace the origins of archetypal figures in the tarot back to their pre-historic roots. Unlike traditional decks that may rely on Egyptian or Kabbalistic imagery, the Greenwood Tarot is grounded entirely in European images, specifically the folklore and symbolism of the British Isles. It is described as a form of eco-psychology and modern shamanism, offering a unified system that combines psychological states, deities, archetypes, and the natural world.
The deck is deeply pagan in feel and content, utilizing pre-Celtic British religious symbols such as images of animals, landmarks, and deities like the Green Man. It aligns the cards of the tarot with the changing of the seasons, passing through the solstice and equinox points and the four Celtic fire festivals: Imbolc, Beltane, Lammas, and Samhain. This connection to the natural cycle provides a framework for understanding the subtle meanings of the cards within the context of the turning year. The artwork, rendered in colored pencil by Chesca Potter, is noted for its softly glowing intensity and detailed rendering, which contributes to the deck's energetic and atmospheric quality.
The Shaman Card in the Greenwood Tarot
In the context of the Greenwood Tarot, the card known as "The Shaman" corresponds to the traditional "Magician" card of the standard tarot deck. This renaming and re-imagining reflect the deck's focus on pre-Celtic shamanistic traditions rather than the esoteric systems often associated with the Rider-Waite-Smith deck.
The Shaman represents the active principle of manifestation and the bridge between the spiritual and physical worlds. In the Greenwood system, this figure is the conduit through which the energies of the forest and the cycles of the year are harnessed and directed. The symbolism of the Shaman is tied to the ability to navigate the "mythic forest"—a metaphor for the subconscious, the natural world, and the unseen realms.
Symbolic Imagery
While specific visual details from the source material are summarized rather than described in full, the Shaman is understood to embody the mastery of the elements and the tools of the trade. In the Greenwood Tarot, the tools are likely re-contextualized to fit the European shamanistic setting. The card signifies the conscious direction of will and energy. It is the card of "doing" rather than "being," representing the moment when an idea or spiritual insight is translated into physical reality.
The Shaman stands at the threshold of the material world, much like a shaman preparing for a journey. The imagery reinforces the concept that the querent possesses the necessary skills and spiritual connection to manifest their desires. It is a card of power, but a power that is disciplined and directed.
Interpretive Meanings
When The Shaman appears in a reading, it signifies a time of action and manifestation. It suggests that the querent has the ability to influence their circumstances through the alignment of will, focus, and skill.
- Upright Position: The Shaman upright indicates that the querent is in a position of power and control. It suggests that all elements are in place for a successful outcome. This card calls for the querent to step into their role as a creator, utilizing their talents and resources to shape their reality. It represents a clear connection between the querent's intentions and the physical world, making it an auspicious time to begin new projects or ventures.
- Reversed Position: When reversed, The Shaman may indicate a blockage of energy or a misuse of personal power. It can suggest that the querent is disconnected from their spiritual source or that their actions are not aligned with their true will. There may be a lack of focus, a scattering of energy, or a feeling of being stuck. It serves as a reminder to re-establish the connection with the natural and spiritual forces available and to ensure that one's actions are grounded in integrity.
The Wheel of the Year and Tarot Structure
A defining characteristic of the Greenwood Tarot is its alignment with the Wheel of the Year. This ancient system marks the passage of time through eight festivals, or "sabbats," which correspond to the solstices, equinoxes, and the cross-quarter days (the midpoints between these points).
The Solar and Seasonal Cycle
The deck links the Major Arcana to this cycle, providing a narrative of growth, harvest, decay, and rebirth that mirrors the natural world. This framework transforms the tarot from a static system of symbols into a dynamic map of cyclical change.
- Spring (Imbolc to Beltane): This period represents the awakening of the earth and the seeding of intentions. The tarot cards associated with this time would reflect themes of new beginnings, potential, and the stirring of life force.
- Summer (Beltane to Lammas): This is the time of growth, fullness, and the peak of the sun's power. The cards here would speak of expansion, passion, and the fruition of early efforts.
- Autumn (Lammas to Samhain): As the light wanes, the focus shifts to harvest, release, and introspection. The imagery in the Greenwood Tarot during this cycle often deals with themes of sacrifice, wisdom gained through experience, and preparation for the dark half of the year.
- Winter (Yule/Samhain to Imbolc): This is the season of rest, reflection, and the return of the light. The cards reflect the subconscious, the mystery of death and rebirth, and the quiet potential that lies dormant.
The Major Arcana Re-Ordering
The Greenwood Tarot re-orders and re-names the Major Arcana to better fit its pre-Celtic and naturalistic themes. This structural change is not arbitrary but is designed to enhance the deck's connection to the Wheel of the Year and shamanistic journeying.
- The Ancestor: Takes the place of the Hierophant, shifting the focus from established religious dogma to the wisdom of lineage and ancient traditions.
- The Archer: Replaces the Chariot, symbolizing the focused direction of energy and the pursuit of goals with the precision of a hunter.
- Balance: Substitutes for Temperance, emphasizing the equilibrium found in nature and the alchemical blending of opposites.
- The Green Woman: Takes the place of the Empress, representing the fertile, nurturing, and life-giving aspects of nature.
- The Green Man: Replaces the Emperor, signifying the authority of the natural world and the protective, structural force of the forest.
- The Blasted Oak: A unique card that combines the energies of the Tower and the Hanged Man. It represents the sudden destruction of old structures (like a tree struck by lightning) but also the wisdom gained through this catastrophic release. It offers the reader two options: the shock of the Tower or the surrender of the Hanged Man.
- The Guardian: Replaces the Devil. The source material describes this as a bear skeleton at a cave entrance. It is a powerful statement about the relationship between fear, imagination, and self-limitation. It reframes the concept of "the devil" not as an external evil, but as the internal fears and limitations that guard the entrance to the deeper self.
- Reflection: A unique lunar card that replaces the Hanged Man. It focuses on introspection, mirroring, and the subconscious insights gained during the reflective phases of the lunar cycle.
Key Symbols and Their Influence
The Greenwood Tarot relies heavily on specific symbols drawn from Celtic mythology, European folklore, and the natural world. These symbols are not merely decorative; they are the primary language through which the deck communicates meaning.
The Green Man
The Green Man is perhaps the most prominent symbol in the deck. This ancient pagan figure, often depicted as a face made of or emerging from foliage, represents the life force of nature. * Meaning: He signifies fertility, vitality, death, and rebirth. He is the spirit of the forest and the wild places. * Influence on Reading: When the Green Man appears, it signifies a time of growth, renewal, and a deep connection with the natural world. It reminds the querent of the interconnectedness of all living things and the presence of the divine in nature. It often points to a need to embrace wildness and instinct.
The Tree of Life
Trees are central to Celtic mythology and are deeply woven into the imagery of the Greenwood Tarot. * Meaning: Trees represent wisdom, strength, and the interconnectedness of all realms (the underworld, the earth, and the heavens). The Tree of Life symbolizes balance, harmony, and the cycle of the seasons. * Influence on Reading: Cards featuring trees reflect the querent's own roots, growth, and connection to the world. They offer insight into personal stability, the need for grounding, and the various phases of life. The Tree of Life reminds the querent to seek equilibrium in thoughts, emotions, and actions.
Animals
Animals are featured in almost every card, each carrying specific symbolic weight. The deck draws on the rich tradition of animal lore in European shamanism. * Stag: Represents grace, intuition, and the masculine principle of the forest. It often points to leadership or a spiritual quest. * Raven: Symbolizes magic, transformation, and communication with the spirit world. The raven often appears during times of significant change or when hidden truths are being revealed. * Bear: Associated with The Guardian card, the bear represents the subconscious, introspection (hibernation), and the power of fear as a protective force. * Influence on Reading: The presence of animals allows the reader to tap into specific energies and qualities. The animal acts as a guide or a mirror for the querent's own inner state.
Landscape and Elements
The background and setting of the cards are vital to their interpretation. The "mythic forest" is a character in itself. * Caves and Grottoes: Represent the womb of the earth, the subconscious mind, and the gateway to the unknown. * Rivers and Water: Symbolize the flow of emotion, time, and the life force. * Mountains and Rocks: Represent stability, challenges, and ancient wisdom. * Influence on Reading: The landscape provides the context for the archetypal figures. A figure in a dark forest carries a different meaning than one in a sunlit clearing. The elements ground the reading in the physical reality of the querent's environment.
The Practice of Reading the Greenwood Tarot
Reading the Greenwood Tarot requires an understanding of its unique symbolism and its connection to the natural world. It is described as an ideal introduction for those new to tarot, as well as a source of innovative challenges for experienced readers.
Tools for the Reader
To effectively engage with the Greenwood Tarot, specific tools are recommended to create a sacred space for divination. * The Deck: The primary tool for accessing the system's wisdom. * A Tarot Cloth or Mat: This defines the space for the reading and can be used to lay out spreads that align with the Wheel of the Year or other sacred geometries. * A Tarot Journal: Essential for recording readings, tracking the appearance of cards in relation to the seasons, and noting personal insights. Given the deck's depth, a journal helps the reader "live" the system day and night, as the creators did. * Reference Materials: While the deck is self-contained, resources on Celtic mythology, herbalism, and pre-Celtic shamanism can provide valuable background. These materials help the reader understand the cultural and historical context of the symbols used.
Approaching the Deck
The Greenwood Tarot invites a holistic approach to reading. It is not merely about predicting the future but about understanding one's place within the larger cycles of nature and life. * Eco-Psychology: The deck functions as a tool for eco-psychology, helping the querent reconnect with the natural world as a source of healing and insight. * Shamanistic Journeying: The cards can be used as focal points for meditation or shamanistic journeying, allowing the reader to explore the "mythic forest" within. * Cycle Awareness: A key practice is to note which festival or season the reading falls near. A reading at Samhain (October 31st) will carry the energy of release and introspection, which will naturally flavor the interpretation of the cards.
Conclusion
The Greenwood Tarot stands as a distinct and powerful system of divination that moves away from traditional esoteric structures to embrace the pre-Celian roots of shamanism and the cyclical wisdom of the Wheel of the Year. Through its re-imagined Major Arcana—featuring figures like The Shaman, The Green Man, and The Guardian—it offers a map of the human experience that is deeply intertwined with the rhythms of nature. Its symbolism, drawn from the Green Man, the Tree of Life, and the rich bestiary of European folklore, provides a language for understanding personal growth, fear, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all life. For the reader, it is more than a deck; it is a journey into the mythic forest, a practice of eco-psychology that invites a profound reconnection with the ancient wisdom of the earth.