Shapeshifter Tarot

After years of wanting this tarot deck, I finally gave in and splurged.  Despite my horrible experience with Barnes and Noble (Amazon is my new best friend) I received the box in my cold little hands this evening.

I am a complete newbie to tarot cards.  I understand the concept of them for divination and became excited by seeing photos of them online.  Also, I have a love for Celtic things and the thought of shapeshifting has always been something that interest me.

There are 81 cards in the deck which Sirona Knight, one of the creators, says relates to the 81 knights of the Nine Rings of the Cordemanons of the Gwydonnic Druid Tradition.  The major arcana have each been renamed.  For example, The Hierophant is instead the Knowledge card.  From the photo above you can see the Initiation card, which in traditional tarot decks is known as The Fool.  The minor arcana do not follow the standard cups, wands, pentacles and swords but instead focus on the elements: Earth, Air, Water and Fire.

The images of the cards are stunning.  I found myself spending a long time just looking at the images on the card.  To my surprise I found that some of the items within the image relate to specific aspects that the card represents which enhances the opportunity for memorization and further study.  I have found the first few readings to be accurate in relation to my current situation.

The last point I felt I should make is the association with Celtic deities.  Taliesin, Arianrhod, Lugh, Brigid, Cerridwen, Danu and even Cernunnos have a voice in this deck.  Those that follow a Celtic tradition or pantheon will be able to form a deeper connection to the mysteries of these deities and may find the Gods and Goddesses speaking to them through readings.  Because of this I believe the learning process will bring even more fruits than I originally thought.

As a bonus, the group that I met with for the Solstice celebration will be hosting a discussion on tarot this weekend.  Attendees are encouraged to bring their cards with them to explore the meaning, and I am excited to delve in and make friends while in the process enhancing my spirituality.  I will be sure to let you all know what happens!