Tarot and Archetypal Symbolism

Many tarot readers would agree that tarot has a high degree of archetypal symbolism. The classic Rider-Waite deck is a mix of everything. There are religious interpretations, occult symbolism, pictures that could go in more directions, and so on.

The Devil and the Tower aren’t the main cards showcasing a religious connection. Take the Fool for example. The character showcases innocence, meaning he’ll go through a sophisticated journey that will define who they are.

Some could say that this journey leads to a better result. It could be seen as sanctification. It’s some sort of Christian interpretation. That’s why the game was named Triomphi when it first came out. It was about overcoming something, a condition, a situation, you name it.

In terms of archetypal interpretation, take a look at the Moon. It underlines dreams and perhaps intuition. As for the Hierophant, it’s about values and wisdom.

Tarot has been through a series of upgrades, whether Christian or occult, but the truth is modern meanings refer to archetypes more than anything else. At this point, religion becomes insignificant because it obviously has nothing to do with it.

There are plenty of tarot decks out there, too, some with their own themes. Some are good looking, others look old. Some focus on female power, others relate to the animal spirit. And despite this evolution, themes and archetypes are still there. As for religious themes, they’re gone.

The connection between tarot and religion was more popular back in the day, before the deck evolved. Influences were definitely there, but their meanings have taken a different path. Besides, with so many types of decks out there, concepts have gone in all kinds of directions.

There are no doubts about it; tarot and religion have their influences, but the interpretation has moved towards archetypal models lately. Religion can be seen in some tarot decks if you truly want to see it, but at the end of the day, no deck would be able to exist without its 78 archetypes.​