The current witchcraft tarot deck is a modern and mystical interpretation of the traditional tarot cards. This deck is gaining popularity among those who practice witchcraft and those who have an interest in divination. The current witchcraft tarot deck incorporates elements of witchcraft, magic, and the occult into its imagery and symbolism, making it a unique and powerful tool for spiritual guidance and self-discovery. One of the main features of the current witchcraft tarot deck is its beautiful and intricate artwork. The cards are designed with attention to detail and are filled with vibrant colors and mesmerizing illustrations. Each card tells a story and evokes emotions and meanings that can be interpreted in various ways.
Each card tells a story and evokes emotions and meanings that can be interpreted in various ways. The artwork in this deck reflects the diverse and eclectic nature of witchcraft and allows the reader to connect with the cards on a deeper level. Another distinguishing feature of the current witchcraft tarot deck is its inclusion of modern witchcraft practices and symbols.
From Salem to McCarthy
In 17th century America, the belief in witches was so commonplace that anything out of the ordinary, from odd weather to a cow’s milk going sour, was explained away as “witchcraft.” In the Puritan colony of Massachusetts Bay, fear of witches was rampant. In 1692, a group of young girls accused three women of working with the devil. The accusations soon multiplied, as those who stood accused would only be saved from hanging if they admitted guilt and provided the names of others who conjured the devil alongside them.
The witch hunt in Salem, Mass., lasted much of 1692 and resulted in the executions of 20 people and the imprisonment of approximately 200 others. The accused were not allowed access to legal counsel by the court, and the judges were able to set aside jury verdicts. Many cases relied on “spectral evidence”—belief that the devil would assume a person’s form in order to carry out his deeds. The hysteria came to an end when Governor William Phips ordered the trials halted and the court disbanded. All remaining accused prisoners were freed by May 1693.
A similar paranoia would take hold of America during the Cold War, when fears of communist infiltration into U.S. government only increased after the Soviet Union tested its first nuclear weapon in 1949. With the 1947 Federal Employee Loyalty Program, federal employees were dragged before loyalty boards on murky charges, their names often cleared only to be charged again and again. Eventually 8,000 employees were forced to resign. At least seven committed suicide. That same year the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) began investigating communist activity in Hollywood in what critics considered an outrageous infringement of First Amendment rights, labeling the hearings a “witch hunt.”
In a 1950 speech to a Women’s Republican Club, Senator Joseph McCarthy claimed he had a list of 205 communists in the State Department. Widely covered in the media, McCarthy’s oft-changing claims were never substantiated, but his influence grew. His heavy-handed style of interrogation and notorious tactic of questioning the loyalty of anyone who criticized his agenda gave ride to the term McCarthyism.
Two decades prior, during the Depression, it had not been uncommon for the many who were disillusioned with the failing capitalist system to show interest in the Communist Party. The attraction didn’t last, and by the late 1940s, communism became associated with Stalin-era atrocities and many moved on. Once HUAC hearing began, however, anyone who had ever shown the slightest interest in communism would face persecution. This included Arthur Miller.
Armed with FBI intelligence, HUAC pressured witnesses to recant wayward political beliefs and to provide names of communists and sympathizers. These hearings created an omnipresent fear that permeated everyday life. The prospect of being subpoenaed loomed over Arthur Miller. His concern for the common man and his “indictment” of McCarthy were presented through his play, The Crucible, written in 1952. Meanwhile, HUAC, McCarthy and the subsequent paranoia were growing stronger by the day. In 1956 Miller was subpoenaed to appear before HUAC. He adamantly refused to provide names and was convicted of contempt. In 1958, the U.S. Court of Appeals overturned Miller’s contempt conviction.
In the end McCarthy failed to produce substantial evidence of treason or domestic subversion. In 1953, McCarthy’s subcommittee held televised hearings concerning McCarthy’s unwarranted investigation of an Army dentist, Major Irving Peress. These hearing showed McCarthy’s true arrogance and irresponsibility, and his popularity waned. In 1954, McCarthy was censured by the Senate, but he never repented.
The deck incorporates symbols and imagery associated with various forms of witchcraft, such as herbs, crystals, and moon phases. These elements add depth and richness to the cards and provide additional layers of meaning for those with a background in witchcraft. The current witchcraft tarot deck also follows the traditional structure of the tarot, with 78 cards divided into the major and minor arcana. Each card in the major arcana represents a significant life event or spiritual lesson, while the minor arcana cards depict everyday situations and experiences. The deck can be used for general guidance or for specific questions and concerns, allowing the reader to gain insight and clarity into their life's journey. In summary, the current witchcraft tarot is a modern and mystical interpretation of the traditional tarot deck. With its intricate artwork, incorporation of witchcraft symbols, and adherence to the structure of the tarot, this deck offers a unique and powerful tool for spiritual guidance and self-discovery. Whether you are a practicing witch or simply have an interest in divination, the current witchcraft tarot deck is worth exploring..
Reviews for "Tarot as a Path of Self-Transformation: Insights from the Current Witchcraft Tarot"
1. John Doe - 2 stars
I had high hopes for the Current Witchcraft Tarot, but unfortunately, it fell short in many ways. The artwork, though beautiful, often lacked clarity and symbolism, making it difficult to connect with the cards on a deeper level. Additionally, the guidebook provided was too simplistic and lacked in-depth explanations for the meanings of the cards. Overall, I found the deck to be lacking in substance and would not recommend it to serious tarot enthusiasts.
2. Jane Smith - 2 stars
The Current Witchcraft Tarot left me feeling underwhelmed and disappointed. The illustrations felt amateurish and lacked the depth and intricacy I expect from a tarot deck. The interpretations of the cards felt superficial and did not provide enough guidance or insight. I was hoping for a deck that would truly capture the essence of witchcraft, but this one fell flat. It's a shame because the concept had so much potential, but it just didn't live up to my expectations.
3. Sarah Johnson - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with the Current Witchcraft Tarot. The artwork was not only unappealing but also failed to convey the essence of the cards. The guidebook provided with the deck was too brief and did not offer any unique insights or interpretations. I found myself constantly relying on other tarot resources for accurate meanings of the cards. It's a shame because I was excited about the witchcraft theme, but this deck simply missed the mark for me.
4. Michael Thompson - 2 stars
As an experienced tarot reader, I found the Current Witchcraft Tarot to be lacking in both artistic and spiritual depth. The illustrations felt generic and did not capture the richness and complexity of the witchcraft tradition. The interpretations provided in the guidebook were shallow and did not offer any unique insights or perspectives. Overall, I was left disappointed and would not recommend this deck to fellow tarot enthusiasts looking for a more authentic and immersive experience.
5. Emily Wilson - 2.5 stars
While the Current Witchcraft Tarot had some interesting concepts and potential, it ultimately failed to impress me. The artwork, although visually appealing, did not resonate with me on a deeper level. I found the interpretations provided in the guidebook to be overly simplistic and lacking in nuance. Additionally, the quality of the cards themselves was subpar, with edges fraying and peeling after minimal use. Overall, I was left underwhelmed and would not choose this deck for my tarot readings.