Tarot Symbols: The Philosophy of Occultism in Drawings and Numbers

Why do you need Tarot cards if you are not going to divinate? In 1912, the Russian philosopher-mystic Peter Uspensky answered this question in his book "Tarot Symbols". He used the cards as a workout for the mind, a tool for self-discovery, and an illustration of complex concepts.

Uspensky did not treat Tarot with reverence: he changed the names and order of the arcana, mixed images from two decks, and then crafted an artistic narrative in the spirit of symbolism. His approach — bold and deeply personal — resembled an artistic project more than a strict system.

In addition to "Tarot Symbols", the proposed collection includes early works by Peter Uspensky created in the early 20th century — during the era of Russian "timelessness". These texts help to better understand the author's main idea: "Ahead of all other human ways of penetrating the mysteries of nature is art".

Uspensky believed that poetry, painting, and theater — these are relevant forms of occult practice. In his texts, he does not teach ancient wisdom but invites the reader to co-create.