Tarot glossary
What is the Thoth Tarot?
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The Thoth Tarot is a deck conceived by Aleister Crowley and painted by Lady Frieda Harris, created between 1938 and 1943 and published in 1969. It follows the esoteric tradition of the Golden Dawn, with dense symbolism and distinct names for some cards.
Origin of the deck
Aleister Crowley, an English occultist, designed the deck, and Lady Frieda Harris painted it over several years. The work was finished in the 1940s and was only published as a deck in 1969, after both had died. The accompanying book, The Book of Thoth, came out in 1944.
The name Thoth refers to the Egyptian god of writing and wisdom, whom Crowley associated with tarot.
What sets it apart
The Thoth has a more abstract imagery loaded with symbols from astrology, Kabbalah and Egyptology, which can surprise people coming from the Rider-Waite-Smith. Some cards get names different from the traditional ones.
- Justice becomes Adjustment.
- Strength becomes Lust.
- Temperance becomes Art.
- Judgement becomes The Aeon.
- The World becomes The Universe.
- Court cards: Princess, Prince, Queen and Knight.
Who it suits
The Thoth tends to attract people who enjoy studying denser symbolism and know a bit of astrology and Kabbalah. For someone just starting out, it may require more study.
That does not make it a better or worse deck, only a different one. If you choose the Thoth, it is worth reading Crowley's book or a companion guide.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Thoth a different tarot?
- It has the same 78-card structure, but with its own symbolism, names and some attributions, tied to Crowley's esoteric tradition.
- Who drew the Thoth Tarot?
- It was painted by Lady Frieda Harris, based on Aleister Crowley's design. She dedicated years to the work before publication.
- Is the Thoth good for beginners?
- It can be challenging, because of the symbolic density and the different names. Many people start with the Marseille or the Rider-Waite-Smith and get to know the Thoth later.
Educational content, for reflection. Tarot does not replace medical, legal or financial advice.