The Illuminated Tarot, created by Caitlin Keegan in 2017, presents a unique approach to divination and cartomancy. While often referred to as a Tarot deck, the guidebook describes it as a 53-card deck intended for both divination and gameplay. It functions primarily as an Oracle deck, yet it incorporates many interpretations found in traditional Tarot systems. This deck offers a colorful and intuitive method for seeking guidance, distinguishing itself through its structure, artwork, and interpretive style.
The deck's design is characterized by fun and fanciful artwork, which has been noted to resemble illustrations suitable for an adult coloring book. The visual appeal is intended to evoke happiness and positivity in the user. Unlike traditional Tarot decks which rely heavily on complex symbolism, the Illuminated Tarot emphasizes simplicity and personal intuition. The guidebook provided with the deck is minimalist, offering keywords rather than extensive descriptions. This approach allows readers to rely on their own impressions without being overwhelmed by dense symbolism.
Deck Structure and Composition
The Illuminated Tarot deviates from the standard 78-card structure of traditional Tarot decks. It consists of 53 cards, aligning closely with a standard deck of playing cards. This structure influences both the gameplay aspect and the divinatory methodology.
Suits and Correspondences
The deck is divided into four suits, mirroring playing cards: * Spades: Correspond to the suit of Swords in traditional Tarot. * Diamonds: Correspond to the suit of Pentacles. * Hearts: Correspond to the suit of Cups. * Clubs: Correspond to the suit of Wands.
Each suit contains cards numbered from 1 to 10, along with the Jack, Queen, and King. These court cards function similarly to the Pages, Knights, Queens, and Kings of traditional Tarot but retain the playing card nomenclature.
The Major Arcana Integration
One of the most distinct features of the Illuminated Tarot is the integration of Major Arcana concepts into the minor suits. Rather than having a separate 22-card Major Arcana section, specific cards within the suits carry the meanings and archetypes of the Major Arcana. For example, the Ace of Diamonds corresponds to the World card. This integration suggests that significant life themes and universal energies are accessible through the numbered and court cards of the deck.
The Joker
The 53rd card is the Joker, which is explicitly equated with the Fool card in traditional Tarot. It is assigned the number 0, mirroring the Fool's position in the Major Arcana. This card represents beginnings, potential, and a carefree spirit.
Interpretive Methodology and Key Differences
The Illuminated Tarot offers a distinct interpretive framework compared to traditional Tarot systems. While it draws inspiration from the Rider-Waite tradition, it simplifies the esoteric layers found in those decks.
Reliance on Intuition
The deck is designed to be accessible to beginners who trust their intuition. The guidebook provides minimal information—typically three to four keywords per card—encouraging the reader to develop a personal connection with the imagery. However, the source material notes that while a beginner can use the deck immediately, having knowledge of traditional Tarot can enhance the reading experience.
Numerology and Astrology
Unlike serious traditional decks such as the Rider-Waite-Smith or Hermetic Tarot, which heavily utilize astrology and numerology, the Illuminated Tarot was designed primarily using numerology as a foundational element. The guidebook does not emphasize astrological correspondences. However, the source material suggests that a reader familiar with astrology can choose to incorporate zodiac signs and Major Arcana archetypes to deepen interpretations, though this adds a layer of complexity not inherent to the deck's design.
Reversals and Card Orientation
A technical aspect of the deck involves the handling of reversed cards. Some cards in the Illuminated Tarot appear identical whether upright or reversed, while others display subtle or significant differences in color or imagery. For instance, the Joker may look the same regardless of orientation, whereas the 10 of Diamonds uses a distinct color palette (bright yellow on top, darker blue-green on bottom) to indicate reversal. This inconsistency in design regarding reversals requires the reader to pay close attention to color shifts and subtle visual cues.
Comparative Card Meanings
The Illuminated Tarot often reinterprets traditional Tarot meanings, sometimes shifting the focus from one aspect of a card's meaning to another. The following table illustrates how specific cards in the Illuminated Tarot correspond to traditional Tarot cards and how their meanings differ.
| Illuminated Tarot Card | Traditional Tarot Correspondence | Traditional Meaning (Rider-Waite Focus) | Illuminated Tarot Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 of Spades | 10 of Swords / Judgment | Endings, betrayal, painful closure; or resurrection and absolution. | "Waking up"; focus on new beginnings rather than the pain of endings. |
| Ace of Diamonds | Ace of Pentacles / The World | New beginnings, money, practical matters; or completion, travel, unity. | Peace, travel, open-mindedness. (Does not emphasize money or new beginnings). |
| Joker | The Fool | Beginnings, innocence, spontaneity. | Number 0; represents the Fool archetype. |
The 10 of Spades: A Shift in Focus
In the Rider-Waite system, the 10 of Swords is often associated with painful endings, betrayal, and hitting rock bottom, though the sunrise in the background offers hope for a new day. In the Illuminated Tarot, the 10 of Spades features an image of a rooster. The visual emphasis is placed entirely on the "dawn" aspect, interpreting the card as "waking up" and the dawn of new beginnings. It also corresponds to the Judgment card, reinforcing themes of awakening and renewal.
The Ace of Diamonds: Peace over Practicality
The Ace of Pentacles in traditional Tarot is a card of prosperity, manifestation, and practical opportunities. In the Illuminated Tarot, the Ace of Diamonds corresponds to the World card. Its keywords are peace, travel, and open-mindedness. The guidebook strips away the traditional association with money and material gain, focusing instead on the completion of a cycle and the expansive energy of the World.
Visual Symbolism and Energy
The artwork of the Illuminated Tarot is not merely decorative; it serves as a conduit for specific energies and interpretations. The visual elements are designed to illuminate the reading, making hidden truths visible.
Starbursts and Cosmic Energy
A recurring visual motif in the deck is the starburst illustration found at the top of many cards. These starbursts are not merely aesthetic; they represent hope and universal energy. The concept of "illumination" is literal here—shining a light on a situation to reveal the path forward. This visual cue is intended to help the user find answers and connect with cosmic support.
Atmospheric Elements
Many cards utilize atmospheric elements like clouds and auras to convey emotional states. For example, in the 5 of Cups (which corresponds to the traditional 5 of Cups), the figure is surrounded by swirling, turbulent clouds. These clouds represent the chaotic emotions of sadness and inaction. One cloud is shaped distinctly like a human ear, suggesting the need to "hear" the truth of a situation rather than remaining lost in emotion.
The Guide (The Hermit)
The card representing the Hermit archetype, titled "The Guide," uses deep shades of blue and purple. The figure holds a lantern emitting purple-hued light, symbolizing wisdom. Wispy clouds in the background cloak figures from the unconscious, suggesting that the Guide helps illuminate the hidden aspects of the self and the path ahead.
Practical Application and User Experience
The Illuminated Tarot is marketed toward those seeking modern divination methods. It removes the barrier of complex occult symbolism, making it approachable for those who may find traditional Tarot intimidating.
For Beginners vs. Seasoned Readers
There is a nuance regarding the target audience. One source suggests it is a good choice for beginners because of its simplicity and reliance on intuition. However, another source suggests it is better suited for seasoned readers because the limited number of cards (53 vs. 78) and the need to interpret the interplay of meanings requires a certain level of patience and existing knowledge of divination dynamics.
The Guidebook
The guidebook is described as colorful but minimalist. It includes: 1. A brief history of Tarot and cartomancy. 2. A few sample spreads. 3. Keywords for each card.
This minimalism is intentional. It prevents information overload and encourages the reader to engage with the imagery directly.
Gameplay Aspect
Because the deck is structured like a playing card deck, it can be used for traditional card games. This dual functionality adds a layer of accessibility and normalizes the use of the cards in daily life, bridging the gap between mundane play and spiritual divination.
Conclusion
The Illuminated Tarot by Caitlin Keegan stands as a modern, colorful adaptation of cartomancy. It bridges the gap between traditional Tarot and playing card divination. By integrating Major Arcana themes into a 53-card structure, it offers a condensed yet profound tool for introspection. Its reliance on numerology, distinct visual symbolism (such as starbursts and atmospheric clouds), and a minimalist guidebook makes it a unique resource for those seeking to illuminate their path through intuition rather than rigid dogma. Whether used by a beginner trusting their gut or a seasoned reader looking for a fresh perspective, the deck offers a way to "wake up" to new possibilities and find peace in the journey.