I prefer mythical divination decks as they tap into
my acquired lore and thereby give great readings. Also, I find that my mythic knowledge base serves as a good foundation for
Active Imagination exercises and other magickal practices.
The Vikings Tarot, a Lo Scarabeo deck distributed
by Llewellyn, merges Tarot symbolism with Norse mythology, producing a barbaric experience for hobbyists, diviners and
magicians alike.
The Major Arcana depicts personages and incidents
from the Eddas. Odin, Thor, Loki, Tyr, Frigg, Saga, Ullr, Villi, Ve, Heimdall, the Norns, Forsetti, Vali, Baldr, Hodr, Sol,
Mani, Ymir, the Valkyries: all here, representing aspects of their legends that embody Tarot truths. Settings such as Asgard
and Ygdrassil, and events like Ragnarok are also represented in the key twenty two cards.
The primal giants rule the suit of Wands. The Vanir,
wights of fertility, rule Chalices. The dwarves and elves govern Pentacles. Men rule (and are ruled by) Swords.
As with other mythical decks released by Lo Scarabeo,
the Vikings Tarot has a new slant on the ancient stories. Odin for instance, who is usually depicted as the Hanged Man, The
Emperor and/or one of the Lovers, is none of those things inthis deck. Instead, he is the Hierophant, which also makes sense.
Vali is the Hanged Man, Ullr the Emperor and Lovers depicts an incident involving Frigg and Odin's brothers.
A five-card Drakkar spread is introduced and explained
in the multi-lingual guide that accompanies the deck (go forth in your dragon-ship after consulting the oracle, and conquer!).
The art, by Pietro Alligo, is colorful and dream-like - folksy and cartoonish.
The Vikings Tarot promises to provide
countless hours of enjoyment as I explore its secrets. If you are even remotely interested in the Northern Path, I recommend
this tool highly and invite you to join in my voyage of discovery.
Musing by Thor
the Barbarian
