The Tarot de Marseille is much more than just a deck of cards—it’s a gateway into a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and spirituality. The origins of the Tarot have long been debated, but a groundbreaking perspective has emerged, challenging traditional historical beliefs. Extensive research suggests that the Tarot’s roots date as far back as the first century, rather than the commonly cited 14th-century Italy.
Years of dedicated study unearthed surprising connections across various civilisations and religions, notably to the Orthodox Coptic Church in Egypt and intriguingly, Mary Magdalene herself. Their extensive findings have culminated in the publication of a comprehensive 480-page book by Philippe Camoin, revealing the Tarot as a profound reflection of early Christian esoteric traditions rather than a mere medieval invention.
The Italian Renaissance certainly shone a spotlight on the Tarot, popularising it primarily as a game rather than for its symbolic depth. However, the Tarot’s esoteric use as a tool for divination and spiritual insight became prominent much later, particularly during the 19th century. While historians previously believed the Tarot evolved gradually, this innovative research argues the opposite: the original Tarot was near-perfect, rich with symbolism and esoteric knowledge, gradually losing detail through successive reproductions.
Restoring the original Tarot de Marseille
Restoring the original Tarot de Marseille involved meticulous attention to symbolism, mathematics, and art. The restoration process uncovered lost symbols, often misrepresented or completely eliminated by card masters over generations who misunderstood their esoteric meanings. For example, the Temperance card originally depicted two snakes intertwined at the angel’s feet—a significant esoteric symbol gradually distorted into mere decorative details.
Through meticulous layering and comparison of different historical Tarot decks using modern digital techniques, researchers reconstructed symbols to their original, profound forms. They discovered complex mathematical structures linking the 22 major arcana, employing elements such as the golden ratio—famously used in architectural masterpieces like cathedrals and pyramids—and even mathematical set theory, forming a coherent system previously unseen.
Furthermore, these hidden codes revealed compelling connections to Mary Magdalene, particularly illustrated by juxtaposing the Judgment and World cards. Where historians saw Christ represented as an androgynous figure in the World card, this innovative approach argues for the portrayal of Mary Magdalene, the only European saint traditionally depicted naked, whose history is deeply tied to Marseille itself.
The Tarot’s mysteries,
The Tarot’s mysteries, closely linked to early Christian heresies and secret orders, including Marseille’s Order of Saint Victor, were systematically suppressed by the Roman Empire. This original, purer Christianity—traced back to Egyptian hermits persecuted in the 4th century—had a profound influence on the esoteric knowledge encoded in the Tarot of Marseille.
By restoring these lost elements, researchers argue that the Tarot de Marseille is not merely historical artefact but rather a living metaphysical “machine,” akin to a cosmic computer, designed to decipher the human psyche and spiritual destiny. Its complex symbolism allows the user to access deep psychological and spiritual insights, effectively serving as a bridge to the divine.
The power of Tarot, according to its restorers, goes beyond simple fortune-telling; it’s inherently paranormal, even divine. They emphasise that Tarot reading should empower rather than predict, guiding individuals by revealing options rather than absolute futures. It respects personal boundaries, gently challenging one’s inner defences without force, gradually allowing truths to surface as the individual becomes ready.
Ultimately, the Tarot de Marseille represents a profound synthesis of multiple traditions. It seamlessly integrates Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and other spiritual symbols into a single anonymous, sacred art form. Its magic lies not only in its esoteric wisdom but also in its profound ability to cultivate intuition and clarity. Whether seen as a psychological tool or a metaphysical instrument, the Tarot remains a powerful means of personal and spiritual transformation, awaiting rediscovery by each generation.
