The Esoteric Symbology of the Tarot Tarot: Judgment By Gary Shook It is obvious that the early developers of the Tarot were influenced by Christianity and the Bible, as well as Judaism, Mithraism and Eleusianism. To what extent and to what purpose has been a topic of sharp debate. Were they using common, accepted symbology to mask a deeper, hidden one? Or were they expressing sincere Christian belief in an esoteric format? I doubt that it will ever be settled, but I believe both answers have merit. The Judgment card is the most recognizable of the Christian influenced cards and its symbology is clear. It is a direct depiction of the final judgment and resurrection. To Christians, the Archangel Gabriel is calling forth the dead to receive judgment on their lives, and possibly enter the Gates of Heaven. To the Fool this represents the powers of spirit calling him to his final death and rebirth from the mundane. In the Sun card the Fool had traveled as far as he could without external aid. This is the final step of his journey and the great work of transformation. Symbolism Coffins: The four sides of the coffin relate to the material existence the Fool is now shedding. The coffin is the physical body. Archangel Gabriel rules the Element of Water. He is calling forth the spirits of those that have made the Fool's journey. Water, Blue Background, and Clouds symbolize the self, the higher self, and the changes that are occurring to them. Mountains in the background symbolize of the next higher level to which the Fool is being called forth. Banner: The Cross-of St. George indicates integration of the four material Elements of life. This is one of a series of articles on the esoteric symbology of the Rider-Waite tarot deck. Dr. Waite spoke to us not in words, but in hidden symbols. Symbols are truly the universal language expressing ideas in a way that, with study and contemplation, all can understand. But this understanding may not be the same for everyone who seeks it. While symbols do speak to all that will listen, they may say different things to different people. To truly understand the archetypal symbology of the Tarot, you must listen to a chorus of voices, not just one. Read as many different explanations as you can on the Tarot, and then the true meanings of the symbols will naturally come to you from within. | 
