The Fascinating Story Behind the Creation of the Iconic Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck

‍Written by Kyle W. M.

As a long-time tarot enthusiast and professional tarot reader, I have always been intrigued by the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck. Its timeless illustrations and rich symbolism have captivated many tarot readers for over a century. In this article, we will explore the history and creation of this iconic deck, and why it remains a favorite among tarot readers worldwide.

The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot is widely regarded as the universal standard for any new tarot reader's journey to learning and understanding tarot cards. It is the most famous and recognizable tarot deck in the world, and many people associate tarot decks in general with its groundbreaking and timeless designs. The deck was commissioned by A.E. Waite, a well-known occult author and Golden Dawn member, in the 1900's. He hired Pamela Smith, a skilled and insightful illustrator who was also a member of the Golden Dawn, to create the deck.

The Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck

What is Tarot Anyways? 

Before diving into the Rider Waite Smith deck, we have to have a basic understanding of tarot cards. Tarot is a divination tool that uses a deck of cards to gain insight and guidance. The Tarot deck consists of 78 cards and is composed of three main card sets: the Major Arcana, Minor Arcana, and the Court cards. 

The Major Arcana cards hold a prominent position in a Tarot deck, embodying the 22 most influential and powerful cards. Reflecting universal experiences, with each card carrying specific messages of perspective and guidance to help you in times of need. 

22 Marjor Arcana Cards of The Rider Waite Smith

While the Minor Arcana cards delve into the everyday choices and emotions that shape our lives. Its four suits - Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles - provide distinct perspectives on various aspects of our experiences. Each suit highlights specific elements such as emotions, ambition, intellect or material matters that influence our day-to-day challenges.

56 Minor Arcana Cards of the Rider Waite Smith

 The Court cards offer a more in-depth understanding of our relationships and personalities, providing support in individuals' interpretation of life's challenges. Additionally, the Court cards hold a special essence that reflects individual roles and parts within ourselves and others in our lives. Kings, Queens, Knights, and Pages illustrate different stages.

A closer look into the Tarot deck reveals how all these components work together. The Major Arcana cards act as mentors who guide us on our life journeys and provide us with an understanding of our destiny. Meanwhile, the Minor Arcana dives into the everyday choices and emotions we encounter, with four separate suits that offer distinct perspectives on different facets of our experiences. 

Tarot cards have a long and fascinating history. The origins of tarot are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Europe during the late Middle Ages. The earliest known tarot decks date back to the 15th century, and they were initially used for playing games rather than divination. It wasn't until the 18th century that tarot began to be used for divination purposes.

A.E. Waite and Pamela Smith: Creators of the Most Famous Tarot Deck

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck was created by A.E. Waite (above) and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith (below). 

Arthur Edward Waite was a British occultist and author who was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Pamela Colman Smith was a British artist and writer who was also active in the same period.

Waite and Smith met through the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret magickal lodge that was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Golden Dawn was a prominent influence on the creation of the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck and played a significant role in its development.

The Golden Dawn

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was a secret society that was founded in the late 19th century in England. This secret order was dedicated to the study and practice of the occult and mysticism. The members of the Golden Dawn were influential figures in the fields of art, literature, and spirituality.

The Hermetic Order had a significant influence on the creation of the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck. A.E. Waite was an initiate of this prestigious magickal order, and many of the symbols and imagery found in the deck are based on the teachings of the Golden Dawn. Pamela Colman Smith was also a Golden Dawn initiate and was heavily involved in its rituals and practices.

The Design of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck: What Makes it So Special?

Waite was very particular in his instructions for Smith on the designs for the Major Arcana cards. As a devoted and heavily involved member of the Golden Dawn, he believed that magickal knowledge should be safeguarded from the "profane" masses. The Golden Dawn employed a symbolic language that only initiates of their order could understand, and they were known to use "traps and blinds" within their symbolic language to throw off anyone who might have discovered some meanings to their secret magickal codex. However, for whatever reason, Waite left the designs for the illustration of the Minor Arcana up to Smith herself.

This seemingly arbitrary release of creative instruction would prove to be an important factor in not only the history of their tarot project but will mark a significant period of change in the tarot tradition as a whole.

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck is known for its unique and timeless illustrations. Pamela Colman Smith's illustrations are a groundbreaking revolution for tarot, as they broke away from the traditional tarot imagery of the time. The Rider Waite Smith deck features fully illustrated Minor Arcana cards, which was a departure from the standard playing card-style designs found in other decks.

The Rider Waite Smith deck also features rich symbolism and imagery that is rooted in the teachings of the Golden Dawn. The Major Arcana cards feature iconic images such as The Magician, The High Priestess, and The Fool, which have become staples in the tarot world.

Understanding the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Cards: Major Arcana and Minor Arcana

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two parts: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each of which represents a significant life lesson or spiritual journey. The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards, divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles.

Each suit represents a different aspect of life, and each card within the suit has its own unique meaning. The Wands represent creativity and passion, Cups represent emotions and relationships, Swords represent intellect and decision-making, and Pentacles represent material possessions and resources.

The Rider Waite Smith Deck Today: Why You Should Consider Buying It

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck remains one of the most popular and widely used tarot decks in the world. Its timeless illustrations and rich symbolism have captivated readers for over a century. If you are new to tarot, the Rider Waite Smith deck is an excellent place to start as it is easy to understand and widely available. Considering the influence of this deck on virtually every deck since the publication of the Rider Waite Smith tarot deck, many professional tarot instructors and authors consider it to be the standard.

Even if you are an experienced tarot reader, the Rider Waite Smith deck is a must-have in your collection. Its iconic imagery and symbolism are essential to the tarot world, and it remains a favorite among readers worldwide.

Other Tarot Decks to Consider: What's the Best Tarot Deck to Start With?

While the Rider Waite Smith deck is an excellent deck for beginners, there are many other decks to consider. The Thoth deck, created by Aleister Crowley, is another popular choice among tarot readers. The Marseille deck is another classic deck that has been around for centuries. The Wild Unknown deck, created by Kim Krans, is a modern and popular deck that has gained a significant following in recent years.

Thoth Tarot Deck

 

Marseille Tarot

The Wild Unknown Tarot

When choosing a tarot deck, it's essential to choose one that resonates with you. Take the time to explore different decks and find one that speaks to your intuition.

Resources for Learning Tarot with the Rider Waite Smith Deck: Books, Courses, and Websites

Learning tarot can be an overwhelming experience, but there are many resources available to help you on your journey. Books such as "The Ultimate Guide to Tarot" by Liz Dean and my personal favorite "Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom" by Rachel Pollack are excellent resources for beginners and experienced readers alike.

The Ultimate Guide To Tarot by Liz Dean

Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom by Rachel Pollack

Online courses and websites such as Biddy Tarot and Tarot School offer comprehensive courses and resources for learning tarot. These resources provide a wealth of information on the Rider Waite Smith deck and other popular tarot decks.

The Ultimate Guide To Tarot Card Meanings by Brigit Esselmont (Biddy Tarot)

The Influence of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck on Modern Tarot

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck has had a significant influence on modern tarot. Its rich symbolism and timeless illustrations have inspired countless decks and artists. The Rider Waite Smith deck has become a staple in the tarot world, and its influence can be seen in many popular decks today.

 The Enduring Appeal of the Rider Waite Smith Tarot Deck

The Rider Waite Smith tarot deck remains a favorite among tarot readers worldwide. Its timeless illustrations and rich symbolism have captivated readers for over a century. Whether you are new to tarot or an experienced reader, the Rider Waite Smith deck is an essential deck to have in your collection. Its iconic imagery and symbolism continue to inspire and influence modern tarot today.

Find Tarot Decks and More from My Online Library:

The Tarot Readers Book List and Tarot Decks from Sacred Space Books

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