Mystical origins of the tarot

Mystical Origins of the Tarot: From Ancient Roots to Modern Usage is a book by Paul Huson that was first published in 1986. It is a comprehensive and well-researched book that explores the history, symbolism, and divinatory uses of the tarot.

Huson begins by discussing the possible origins of the tarot, tracing its roots back to ancient Egypt, Persia, and India. He then discusses the development of the tarot in Europe, from its early use as a game to its later use for divination.

Huson also provides detailed interpretations of the 78 tarot cards, drawing on a wide range of sources, including mythology, religion, and alchemy. He argues that the tarot is a powerful tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth, and he provides practical advice on how to use the cards for divination.

Mystical Origins of the Tarot is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the tarot. The book is comprehensive and well-researched, and it provides a wealth of information on the history, symbolism, and interpretation of the tarot cards.

Here are some of the pros and cons of Mystical Origins of the Tarot:

Pros:

• Comprehensive and well-researched
• Insightful interpretations of the tarot cards
• Based on a solid understanding of history and symbolism
• Provides practical advice on how to use the tarot for divination

Cons:

• Can be complex and esoteric
• Not as easy to read as some other tarot books
• Some of the information may be outdated

Overall, Mystical Origins of the Tarot is a valuable resource for anyone who is serious about learning about the tarot. However, it is important to note that the book is not as easy to read as some other tarot books, so it may not be suitable for beginners.

If you are interested in learning more about the tarot, I recommend starting with a more introductory book such as Tarot Cards: History, Symbolism, and Divination or The Essential Guide to the Tarot. Once you have a basic understanding of the tarot, you can then move on to Mystical Origins of the Tarot for a more in-depth look at the cards.

Here are some additional thoughts on the book:

• I appreciate that Huson takes the time to discuss the history of the tarot and its different interpretations. This helps to put the tarot in context and gives readers a better understanding of the cards.
• I also appreciate Huson’s insights into the symbolism of the tarot cards. He does a good job of explaining the deeper meaning of the cards and how they can be used for self-discovery.
• However, I do think that some of the information in the book may be outdated. For example, Huson discusses the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, which was a major influence on the development of the tarot in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, the Golden Dawn has been disbanded for many years, and its influence on the tarot is no longer as strong.

Overall, I think Mystical Origins of the Tarot is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the tarot. The book is comprehensive and well-researched, and it provides a wealth of information on the history, symbolism, and interpretation of the tarot cards. However, I do think that some of the information in the book may be outdated, so you may want to supplement your reading with other books or resources.