The TAROT and the archetypal Hero's Journey

For a very long time I have been intrigued by the tarot, and since the beginning of this year I have been deeply submerged in learning and understanding the wonderful language that is hidden within the images of its 78 cards.

Banned and censored in the dark ages for being associated with paganism, the tarot is resurfacing today as the timeless tool for self-transformation that it is. The archetypal images depicted in the cards represent the Hero’s Journey, a narrative structure often used for its great resonance, that is capable of mobilizing our subconscious mind. This is why the tarot has been used by such an influential figure as Carl Gustav Jung, known for his work in psychology and psychotherapy, and who collaborated with Sigmund Freud on a shared view of human psychology. Today, the tarot continues to regain popularity as it is recognized for its therapeutic qualities as it mirrors the structure and dynamics of the human psyche and reflects the collective unconscious into a “cloud of cognition”—as Jung would explain it—, giving meaning to a present question and/or condition.

From a sociological perspective, the tarot can be an important tool for self-discovery and hence, for self-development and mastery. Given that in Western society there is very little emphasis on self-reflection and self-inquiry, we are often living our lives based on indoctrination and social constructs that are not in tune with our own, unique nature; we rarely have the chance to question what we really want, what our natural talents are, what triggers us, and blocks us, so the tarot can help uncover all these individual traits that are otherwise neglected by the mainstream social conditioning that we are all subject to.

Self-awareness is the new super power. When we can integrate all aspects of our persona, we are more self-aware and feel inclined to move forward in pursuit of our heartfelt desires. This has large social repercussions as well, since a person who feels empowered to fulfill their desires cannot be a puppet of the system.

At this time of great systemic deconstruction, the world needs more people who know what they want and who have the tools and clarity to go forward with their vision. We are co-creating a new world order, one that requires valiant souls to be their authentic selves and step into the world in all their integrity.

Have you experienced the tarot yet?