The art of Tarot and the wisdom of Stoic philosophy may seem completely unrelated, opposites of one another in many ways.
One is a deck of mystical cards used for divination, and the other is an ancient philosophical school rooted in logic and reason.
Despite this seemingly giant rift between the two, they have both been used as tools for introspection, guidance, and gaining a deeper understanding of the human experience.
This article discusses the intersection between these two seemingly disparate disciplines, exploring how they can complement each other and enrich our self-awareness.
Tarot: A Brief Introduction
Tarot is a deck of 78 cards, each with its unique imagery and symbolism.
Originally used for gaming, they gradually gained significance in divination and spiritual exploration.
Readers interpret the cards' symbols to provide insights, guidance, and even predict future events.
Stoic Philosophy: A Primer
Stoicism, founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BCE, emphasizes personal virtue and wisdom as the path to true happiness.
It teaches that we should accept things we can't change and focus on improving our own behavior and reactions.
The Stoics believed in living in accordance with nature and reasoned that understanding the natural order of things would help humans lead virtuous lives.
Intersections: Contemplation and Acceptance
· Seeking Guidance: Both Tarot and Stoicism provide tools for introspection. While Tarot uses cards as mirrors to our subconscious, Stoicism uses philosophical tenets to question and understand our reactions to the world. Both advocate for a deeper understanding of oneself.
· Acceptance of Fate: The Stoics believed in the concept of Amor Fati – a love of fate. Similarly, while Tarot can provide guidance, it also emphasizes that certain things are preordained or influenced by forces beyond our control. Both disciplines teach acceptance and a certain surrender to the grand tapestry of life.
· Focus on the Present: The Stoics teach that we should concern ourselves with the present moment, as it's all we truly have. Tarot readings, while they can offer glimpses into the future, primarily deal with the querent's current situation and mindset. They encourage a deep dive into the now.
Differences and Complementary Uses
While there are intersections, it's essential to acknowledge the differences.
Stoicism is firmly rooted in reason, while Tarot draws heavily from intuition and the subconscious.
Their differences, however, make them extremely complementary.
For instance, one can use Tarot to tap into their emotions and subconscious feelings about a situation, then turn to Stoic teachings to process those feelings rationally and understand how to act virtuously.
Bringing Them Together: Practical Applications
· Daily Reflection: Draw a Tarot card each morning and meditate on its meaning. Then, apply a Stoic teaching to provide context or a course of action for the day.
· Decision Making: When faced with a challenging decision, use Tarot to understand your feelings and subconscious leanings. Then, refer to Stoic teachings to ensure the choice aligns with virtuous living and rational thinking.
· Emotional Resilience: Use the Tarot to explore emotional pain or trauma. Once emotions are laid bare, Stoicism can offer ways to process, accept, and move forward.
While Tarot and Stoic philosophy hail from different origins and methods, they can be harmoniously integrated into a comprehensive toolkit for introspection, guidance, and personal growth.
Both can offer solace, understanding, and a roadmap to navigate the complex terrain of the human experience.
If you’re interested in learning more about stoicism, tarot or both, please consider joining our community of like-minded seekers.
