Learning
the Tarot: A Tarot Book for Beginners
by Joan Bunning
Learning the Tarot is a complete course on how to use the tarot
cards for personal guidance. The 19 lessons in the course cover
the basics and then move gradually into more advanced concepts.
Exercises and sample responses for each lesson help you learn and
practice. For simplicity, only one easy layout is used throughout
the course - the Celtic Cross Spread.
Learning the Tarot focuses in detail on the actual process of discovering
meaning in the cards. Lessons cover topics such as how to consider
one card by itself, how to look for card pairs, and how to create
the "story" of a reading.
A convenient reference section contains two pages of information
for each card including a picture from the popular Waite deck, a
description, keywords, action phrases and suggestions for cards
with similar and opposite meanings.
The
Complete Guide to the Tarot
by Eden Gray
The book contains a short section about the history of the tarot
(mediocre - for a good intro check 'Tarot - History, Mystery, and
Lore), an excellent chapter about the Major arcana, a good chapter
about the minor arcana, a very good section on reading the cards
with three spreads (the classical Celtic Cross, a cabalistic Tree
of Life spread, and an astrological zodiacal spread), three goof
sections about the connection of tarot to Numerology, Astrology,
and Cabala, a section about the Fool's journey, and a short glossary
of symbolic terms.
Mastering
the Tarot
by Eden Gray
The material is broken into 18 lessons, of which 7 cover the card
meanings themselves (three for the minor arcana, one for the court
cards, and three for the major arcana), and 6 cover spreading &
reading the cards with examples.
The text is concise, and for each card there's a section explaining
it's symbolism and meanings when straight and reversed. The explanations
are solid - Eden Gray knows the material well, and draws on Waite's
Pictorial Key to the Tarot and the Golden Dawn's Book T (an improvement
over many authors who just babble whatever comes to their minds).
The book covers basic numerology and astrology, which gives a larger
view and explains the explanations.
I highly recommend this book as a first study guide to anyone who
learns to read with the Rider-Waite deck.
Seventy-Eight
Degrees of Wisdom: A Book of Tarot
by Rachel Pollack
Together in one volume for the first time, these are the classic
texts that helped launch the modern Tarot renaissance. Often described
as "the Bible of Tarot readers," they bring awareness
of myth and modern psychology to the Tarot's ancient symbolism.
The
Forest of Souls: A Walk Through the Tarot
by Rachel Pollack
Take a Magical Mystery Tour Join celebrated Tarot author, artist,
and scholar Rachel Pollack on a magical walk through the mysteries,
archetypes, and dream-like images of the Tarot. In the tradition
of Carl Jung and Joseph Campbell, Rachel draws upon symbols, myths,
and folk tales both ancient and modern, to illuminate the spiritual
truths behind the Tarot's symbols.
The Forest of Souls unfolds like a dream, in a series of musings
upon the confluence of the sacred and the mundane. How can a simple
deck of 78 cards become keys unlocking life's greatest secrets?
While the most common use of Tarot is for divination, Rachel shows
how to use the cards for readings of an entirely different nature.
Asking improbable, even impossible questions, she plays with the
sacred possibilities and answers that the Tarot gives us. What nourishes
my soul? What is soul? What is Tarot? What plan did God follow to
create the universe? We now know that the Tarot was almost certainly
not originally designed to include Kabbalistic and other occult
correspondences. Yet such systems can greatly enhance our understanding
of and relationship with the cards. Embracing paradox and non-linear
thinking allows us to push the boundaries of the known and venture
into the unknown. It is in that sacred space that we open ourselves
to wonder and mystery.
The
Kabbalah Tree: A Journey of Balance & Growth
by Rachel Pollack
Kabbalahs most famous symbol, the Tree of Life, has become the organizing
principle behind our human efforts to understand the world. Using
Hermann Haindls lush depiction of the Tree of Life, Rachel Pollack
examines the message behind this ancient symbol. She takes a non-denominational
approach - drawing upon unusual sources such as tribal and shamanic
traditions, modern science, contemporary Kabbalists, tarot interpreters,
and a comic book writer - to explore the Trees meaning. Along the
way, we learn more about Kabbalahs history, texts, mystical concepts,
and why this esoteric tradition has sprung up again in the twenty-first
century.
The Runes
The most
common and easily recognized virtue of runes is their magical and
divination abilities. It was believed that by calling upon
the appropriate rune one could thereby make contact with the force
in Nature in which the symbol was representing. It is this
combining with nature that has enabled insights and even prophecies
for centuries, right up to the present times of today. Today,
you can see runic symbols everywhere, even when you don’t realize
you are looking at them. Trees, buildings, talismans, even
the written word can be recognized as runic symbolization, be it
a natural coincidence or not, it simply shows that runes are a part
of our everyday lives and we only have to take a moment to recognize
their very existence to feel their impact. -Blessings-Chantell-
I have found that Runes usually give a compatible reading when
done concurrently with a Tarot reading. There is a theory, among certain
circles, that the runes were the inspiration for Tarot. Look, for
example, at the Hanged Man. He hangs upside down, just as Odin hung
from Yggdrasil. I'm inclined to believe that there are some correlations
between Tarot and Runes, but they are far from identical.--LionHeart-
The word
"Rune" simply means"" mystery" or "secret..."
Rune
Might
by Edred Thorsson
his is a book for those who want to work with the runes and not
just use them as a divination tool. This is serious work for the
serious practioner. This is a good book for those who are not just
only into the runes but also into yoga as well.
THE ultimate source book on rune yoga/armanic runes and an excellent
overview of the German occult scene in general.
Futhark:
A Handbook of Rune Magic
by Edred Thorsson
This is a book for anyone serious about learning to use the runes.
Thorsson is extremely well grounded in traditional lore and the
material is presented in a logical and progressive manner, though
it goes beyond basic material.
The
one central fact of rune reading: you have to pay a price for the
gift. Odin hung upon the great world tree Yggdrasill , a sacrifice
of himself, to himself, before he was shown the runes. It is one thing
to merely read this and quite another to really grasp it. Have you
hung suspended with your branches entwined in heaven and your roots
deep in hell? What price have you paid for wisdom? Odin gave an eye.
Odin sacrificed his warriorhood and manhood by initiation into the
deep seidr-magic. What price have you paid?
How
are you connected to the great hidden currents that rule the runes?
Runecaster's
Handbook: The Well of Wyrd
by Edred Thorsson
A great book for anyone wishing to learn more about the runes. Offers
a good starting point for beginners and also a great resource for
the more advanced runester. I have all three of Thorsson's books in
this series (Futhark, Runelore & the Well of Wyrd) together they
are a fantastic resource and a great spring-board to the more advanced
studies. -LionHeart-
Runelore:
A Handbook of Esoteric Runology
by Edred Thorsson
This book is divided in two parts. First part, Historical Lore,
presents a history of the runes in a more realistic, scientific
view using examples form archaeology to support certain hypothesis
of how the runes where invented (examples of runic writing with
explanations are found throughout the book especially in the first
part). The first 5 chapters of the book are chronologically organised
and present the rune evolution from the oldest findings to the most
recent ones (modern age actually). Chapters 6, 7, 8 try to explain
the utility of runes for the old norse (or for other civilisations
who took the runes from the old Norse) and also give written examples
which try to explain the runes. Especially useful are chapters 6
and 7, which try to explain the runes and the runic inscriptions.
The second part, Hidden Lore, uses a philosophical and psychological
approach to explain the runes. Chapter 9 is especially useful and
probably the most important chapter within the book because here
all the runes are explained in great detail (beginning with page
114 and ending with 141 is a very essence of the book). Chapters
10 is also useful because it shows the cosmological view of the
Old Norse and the connection with the runes (24 pathways between
the 9 worlds, 24 runes). Chapters 11, 12 display even more information
about the runes and the way of thinking of the Old Norse. The last
chapter, 13, has a nice description of the gods of the old Norse
but this chapter lacks the great detail which is found in the other
chapter (this last chapter give some helpful hints but is more like
a conclusion of the book, the good ending).
Practical
Guide To The Runes
by Lisa Peschel
This is a great introduction to Runes without spending a lot of
$. It is short sweet and easy to read. The book is fully illustrated
and there are a few referance charts in the back. For somebody that
knows NOTHING about runes this is a great beginning. I would, however,
purchase more in depth books , like Thorssens above.
The
Elements of the Runes
by Bernard King
King has a wonderful sense of humour, and provides a strong basis
for building upon, in addition to sparking interest in the faith
of Asatru and the myths of the North. This is a definate must have
for anyone starting on the runic journey.
This is one of the better modern books on runes. It's historically
accurate and also covers the esoteric uses of runes quite well.
I recommend it for beginners, and for those who have already gained
a good knowledge of runes.
Way
of the Runes
by Bernard King
This book is a superb first book in the study of the runes. The
information is presented in a orderly and very readable manner.
Bernard King presents an excellent level of research on rune traditions,
divination, and spiritual work. His work is firmly based on the
historical and archaeological research in the field, not on new-age
mixtures of ceremonial magic and wicca. You will get the straight
story from his book!
Principles
of Runes
by Freya Aswynn
This practical introduction to the runic mysteries explores the
ancient meanings and modern relevance of each rune, how to consult
the runes for yourself and others and how to use them for magic,
healing and personal empowerment.
The
Complete Illustrated Guide to Runes
by Nigel Pennick
A rune may look like nothing more than a rock with a symbol etched
into it. But according to The Complete Illustrated Guide to Runes,
a rune is "literally a mystery containing the secrets of the
inner structure of existence." Against a backdrop of vibrant,
full-color photography and graphics, Nigel Pennick presents a comprehensive
overview of rune history and usage, starting with its ancient roots
and leading into a brief section on divination techniques.
This is a good rescource to learn the history of many rune systems
and their meanings. It explains the runes of 5 different systems:
Elder futhark, Anglo-saxon and northumbrian runes, Younger futhark,
Gothic and medieval runes, and the Armanen runes, and goes over
the meaning of each individual rune and why it means what it does.
This also goes over rune use through out history, what runes are,
and an almost endless amount of different uses for the runes.
The
Book of Runes: Tenth Anniversary Edition
by Ralph Blum
Yes--I
have heard the criticism's also--I don't care--I'm a "hippie"
man. I'll do what I damn please. LOL! I have used Ralph's book ever
since it was published and always in conjunction with the Tarot
for serious readings. I even have wildflowers pasted to most of
the Rune pages and the dates when I picked them. I love to just
pull a "A-Ha" also, and just meditate on the Rune I pulled
for the day, and place it on my altar..also the Medicine Card or
Tarot card I dealt. When friends ask me how to do it--I always give
them Ralph's book and Edred Thorssen's books for a deeper pure Germanic/
meaning. I believe I have aproximately 12-15 sets of runes.."Sung"
by friends..made from sea shells, Sequoia pine cones, river rock,
Botswana agate, amethyst, quartz crystal, and many others. What
I do suggest is to put your hand in the Rune bag with your inquiry
and feel ALL the Runes...after they get nice and warm and you have
felt each one..pick one. -Many Blessings-LionHeart-
Ralph Blum
makes no bones about that fact that the runes are not displayed
in their historic order, nor that their meanings are necessarily
those of the ancient world. That was never his purpose.
Some reviewers severely critize RALPH BLUM and his book, THE BOOK
OF RUNES. He does follow a new path. He used the I Ching to assist
him in developing an understanding of each rune. His rune interpretations
reflect the I Ching and the Tao. Also being a student of the I Ching
and the Tao, I have found Blum's rune intrepretations to be very
insightful and meaningful. My own rune readings are always frighteningly
on-point and helpful. The Runes are very powerful and speak to each
individual in the language the user understands.
Your life and your power are always your own, the runes are your
guide.
The
Pagan Book of Days: A Guide to the Festivals, Traditions, and Sacred
Days of the Year
by Nigel Pennick
Tapping into Celtic, Roman, Egyptian, and other cultural traditions,
Nigel Pennick explores the individual significance of almost every
day of the year. Pennick reveals some of the mechanics, such as
moon phases and equinoxes, underlying many important holidays, and
he breaks the year into seasons, months, and even hours, offering
a peek into the importance of even the smaller divisions of the
year.
Frankly, if more non-pagans read books of this sort and came to
the stunning realization that the vast majority of their holidays
were 'borrowed' from pre-Christian European beliefs and rituals,
then we pagans would possibly experience less hostility and labeling
of 'devil-worshipper' (my hopes however aren't high). Mr Pennick
has authored another fine book that will educate readers without
resorting to petty attacks upon the religious preferences of others,
just good solid scholarship and the presentation of facts in an
engaging text and accompanied by delightful illustrations.
The
Runes of Elfland
by Ari Berk (Author), Brian Froud
In 24 never-before-seen paintings, best-selling fantasy artist Brian
Froud interprets the ancient and mystical runes of Celtic and European
origin through Elfland, a world of faeries and myth. Each painting
is inspired by a specific rune, richly symbolic and potent icons open
to infinite interpretations. In the hands of the exceptional folklorist
and poet Ari Berk, the secret meanings of these runes are revealed
and their power is made manifest. In the pages of this book a single
symbol provides the visual key to a host of mythic stories, lands,
and adventures. By using the runes and Froud's paintings as tools
to explore both the "seen" and the "unseen" world,
readers of The Runes of Elfland will be inspired to reimagine their
own lives and tell their own tales. Both storybook and oracle, Runes
of Elfland provides a wellspring of personal insight for the Froud
fan and the Faery aficionado.
Grade 7 Up-If runes are the keys to Faery, this book is an Open Sesame.
Handmade
Runes by Chantell
Click
Above to Visit.
Absolutely
the most beautiful Runes you could own. Crystal, Gemstone, and Magickal
Glass! Each set comes with a beautiful velvet bag and instructions.
Please click on the Runes and check them out.
Also
please visit our Tao of Runes
for more information.
The I
Ching
The I Ching
is a philosophical system which dates back to ancient Chinese civilization.
Though the exact origin of the I Ching system is unknown, legend
tells us that it was originally given to Fu Hsi, a Chinese sage
who was that country's first emperor, having united all the Chinese
people for the first time. This same Fu Hsi is also credited with
bringing the Chinese people out of the evolutionary stage of the
hunter and gatherer and into the new agricultural age. For more
information on the I Ching check out the books below or go to our
Tao of
I Ching.
I
Ching Workbook
by R.L. Wing
This workbook
has been invaluable to me--I'm on my second copy. Extremely accurate
and always "right on." If you have never used the I Ching
before, get some coins (we'll be offering them soon), get this "workbook"
and go for it!! For further study please check out these books below.
-LionHeart-
This book
is indeed a Workbook for using the I Ching. There are so many books
about the hexagrams, but not many go into enough detail as to how
to really USE them from a practical perspective, and leave the reader
to figure it out for him or herself. R.L. Wing's interpretations
of each hexagram are more detailed than one usually finds. As the
other reviews indicate, Wing keeps a impartial distance, however,
and that requires the user to read between the lines to apply them
to their own circumstances.
For each hexagram, he gives several paragraphs where one gives an
interpretation if you're asking on a personal matter, another if
the question has to do with career, another if your question is
about family relationships, etc.
A Best-Seller
in the field. A unique format for gaining a personal understanding
of the 64 human situations. Easy review of the Tao, Yin/Yang, Trigrams,
Hexagrams, coin tossing and interpretation approaches. Making notations
of your inquiries to reveal patterns and mappings of your path through
the Cosmos, the Tao. This book instructs how you can write a book
about yourself with the help of the I Ching. The notations will
also give you a quick, personalized understanding of what particular
hexagrams and lines mean in your life. Highly Recommended.
I
Ching or Book Of Changes
Trans. by Richard Wilhelm; rendered into English by Cary F. Baynes
The best translation of the Chinese I Ching, one of the world's
greatest literatures, available to the general reader. The history
and development of the I Ching in traditional presentatation according
to the understanding of the cultures and philosophy in the time
era that saw the I Ching's emergence as a book of profound wisdom.
An in-depth and indispensible reference book for all serious students.
This book is commonly referred to as the I Ching "Bible",
for the Western Mind. Extreme Quality.
I
Ching Or Book Of Changes, A Guide to Life's Turning Points
by Brian Browne Walker
Clear, concise, practical interpretation of the 64 hexagrams that
are rendered relevency to modern times. The I Ching's realistic
view of the world in teaching us to be led by superior qualities
in order to remain free from inferior influences. Timeless principles
of modesty, awareness, acceptancy, adaptibility, compassion, restraint,
tolerance, inner devotion, patience, detachment, balance and inner
independence. Modern contemporary language. Excellent quick reference.
Secret
Of The Golden Flower, A Chinese Book Of Life
Translated and explained by Richard Wilhelm
"The secret of the powers of grace latent in the psyche and
the profound psychological development resulting from the right
relationship to the forces within the psyche, the conquest of "inner
space", the understanding of the psyche, will remain the ultimate
human goal". Taoist texts of Chinese yoga - partially translated.
Includes idea that all spiritual consciousness depend upon the heart,
reunification of conscious/unconscious, the circulation of the light
and contemplations of emptying the "heart" to dwell forever
in purposelessness and death becomes life. The Book of Consciousness
and Life - energy paths of function and control. Jung examines the
differences/similarities of East/West intellect and psyche and the
paradox of the existing balance between them. Jung also examines
the expressions/definitions of the Tao and the symbolism that psychologically
parallels disentegration of consciousness into apparent seperate
states, each in denial of the other. "The East came to it's
knowledge of inner things in relative ignorance of the external
world. We....will investigate the psyche and it's depths supported
by a tremendously extensive historical and scientific knowledge."
Outstanding insights for all.
Secrets
Of The I Ching
by Joseph Murphy
A guide for practical application of the I Ching in every-day life.
Simple, usable techniques. Summary "points to remember"
overview general universal principles of I Ching philosophy and
tips for interpretation. The 64 hexagrams are assigned specific
biblical references which are used as the points of interpretation.
Renders the I Ching friendly and accessible to all Christians (and
others), who may not be familiar with Eastern philosophy. A refreshing
and unique approach to understanding the spiritual laws of life
and Unity.
The Classic of Changes: a new translation of the I Ching
Interpreted by Wang Bi, Translated by Richard John Lynn.
The I Ching or Book of Changes is a Chinese manual for divination
(also called a book of wisdom), compiled in the ninth century B.C.E.
A person consulting the I Ching is said to be able to see into the
true nature of the universe, and, by acting according to its dictates,
avoid personal failures and disasters. Most available editions of
the I Ching are based on the James Legge translation, a work produced
over 140 years ago and characterized by romanticized and idiomatic
Victorian English. Although not more accurate or revealing than
the Legge, this new translation is welcome because of its crisp
usage of modern-day English. Lynn supplies a chart of trigrams and
hexagrams, a glossary, and a list of proper names. Of special interest
to students of classical Chinese text is a commentary by Wang Bi,
a third-century A.D. Chinese scholar. Highly recommended for public
and academic libraries.
