Arthur Waite, the creator of the modern Tarot, had a deep affinity for alchemy. To him, alchemy was not just a science but a profound spiritual and philosophical system that epitomised the heights of mystical existence. Because Waite viewed Tarot as a means for spiritual evolution, he incorporated alchemical symbols into the cards to subtly aid individuals in grasping this concept.
Many cards in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck contain symbols and imagery associated with alchemy, reflecting the process of inner transformation and spiritual growth. Some of these cards include:
The Magician: The Magician card illustrates the classic Hermetic axiom “As above, so below”. This concept is central to alchemical thought, emphasising the connection between the spiritual and material realms.
The Lovers: In alchemy, this is the merging of dualities to achieve a higher state of unity or transformation. This card combines masculine and feminine energies to create a harmonious and balanced whole. This is sometimes called the chemical wedding, a spiritual process of integrating the conscious and unconscious aspects of the self.
Wheel of Fortune: Sigils for sulphur, mercury, and salt are found within the inner circle of the Wheel of Fortune card. These symbols are known as the three primary substances or the basic building blocks of the universe. Along with the fourth sigil for water, they all play an essential role in alchemy. The presence of these alchemical symbols on the Wheel of Fortune card suggests that this image is about transformation, change, and the cyclical nature of the universe. It is also a reminder that all things are made up of the same basic elements and that we are all interconnected.
Death: The Death card can be seen as a representation of a stage in the alchemical process where decomposition leads to purification and transformation.
Temperance: The Temperance card, with the figure pouring liquid between two cups, is reminiscent of the alchemical process of blending and harmonising opposites to create a higher unity.
The Star: The stars on this card can be associated with the seven classical planets of alchemy, with the eighth star representing the spirit. In alchemical tradition, these seven planets are associated with the seven metals known to the ancient world. This imagery symbolises a harmonious alignment of celestial influences.
The Sun: This card represents the culmination of the alchemical process, where the seeker attains illumination and transformation, symbolised by the radiant sun.
While not all cards in the Rider-Waite Tarot contain explicit alchemical symbols, many of them convey themes and concepts that align with alchemical principles of transformation, spiritual growth, and enlightenment. Do you have your Tarot cards nearby? Get them out, start shuffling, and draw a card to discover what you can do to transform your life.
Arthur Edward Waite