One of the most well-known tarot decks was created by English mystic and poet Arthur Edward Waite and bears his name: the Rider Waite Tarot. Waite, born on October 2, 1857, in Brooklyn, New York, moved to London at a young age and became active in many occult and spiritual organizations there. He wrote extensively on various subjects, from alchemy and Hermeticism to the Kabbalah.
The Rider Waite Tarot deck, which Waite co-created with artist Pamela Colman Smith, is Waite’s most notable contribution to the field of tarot. From its initial publication in 1909, this deck swiftly became a top pick among tarot enthusiasts. It has remained popular over the centuries and is often held up as the gold standard against which other tarot decks are judged.
The 78 Rider Waite Tarot deck cards are split evenly between the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Each of the 22 cards in the Major Arcana stands in for a distinct symbol or theme. Because of the serious topics they address, such as significant shifts and spiritual growth, these cards are frequently regarded as the most crucial ones in the pack. In contrast, there are 56 cards in the Minor Arcana, split evenly across four suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles). These cards focus on more ordinary topics, such as employment, interpersonal relationships, and daily activities.
The Major Arcana card, “The Lovers,” connected with the Love Tarot Card Reading, symbolizes the duality of human nature, the value of love and relationships, and the need to make difficult choices.
If this card shows up in a tarot reading for love, the seeker must make a tough decision about their romantic future. However, it could also mean that the seeker must maintain harmony and equilibrium in their relationships.
The Rider Waite Tarot deck also includes the widely-recognized Three of Cups, representing occasions for joy and camaraderie. Seeing this card in a tarot reading for love is a good sign that the seeker will experience bliss in their interpersonal connections. However, it could also be a sign that you must forget the past and live here and now.
Despite its widespread acceptance, the Rider Waite Tarot deck has been attacked for what some see as a lack of diversity and inclusiveness. Some people feel the deck does not fairly portray human diversity because many figures are white and European. Others, however, point out that the deck was made in the early 20th century when concepts of diversity and inclusion were not as widespread as they are today.
Despite these reservations, the Rider Waite Tarot deck remains a significant player in the tarot world. The influence of this card on subsequent tarot decks and the field as a whole is immeasurable. Arthur Edward Waite is still respected and researched for his many contributions to the occult and spiritual traditions, not just tarot.
It is safe to say that Arthur Edward Waite’s Rider Waite Tarot deck is a classic that will survive for generations to come. Seekers of all cultures and faiths find endless inspiration in its imagery and symbolism. The Rider Waite Tarot deck is an invaluable resource for anybody interested in delving deeper into the mysteries of life and the cosmos, whether they are a seasoned tarot reader or just looking for a Love Tarot Card Reading.