The Work of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer

Tarot cards have been an enigmatic and oft-misunderstood tool for centuries, but the work of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer has helped to bring clarity and understanding to this ancient practice. Both celebrated authors and scholars in the field of tarot, Pollack and Greer have individually made significant contributions to the study and interpretation of tarot cards. Together, they have collaborated on several notable works that have become staples in the tarot community. Their impact on the world of tarot and oracle card reading cannot be overstated, as they have helped to expand the communities of practitioners and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the groundbreaking work of these two visionary women and explore their vital contributions to the field of tarot.

Rachel Pollack

Rachel Pollack is a prominent figure in the world of tarot, known for her contributions to tarot literature and her extensive knowledge of the cards. Her work has made a significant impact on the tarot community, and she has established herself as a respected scholar and author. Pollack’s interest in tarot was sparked at a young age, and she has since become a leading expert in the field. Her work builds upon the foundation laid by notable tarot creators such as Waite-Smith Tarot Creator and one of the most iconic tarot artists, Pamela Colman Smith Tarot Cards. Keep reading to learn more about Pollack’s background, major contributions to tarot, and notable published works.

Background and Early Work

Rachel Pollack’s interest in the tarot began in her teenage years, when she stumbled upon a storefront that sold tarot decks. She purchased her first deck, the Rider-Waite, which introduced her to the world of tarot symbolism.

Throughout her early work and career, Pollack explored the connections between tarot and spiritual growth. She used tarot as a tool for exploring the human psyche, and her approach to the tarot was heavily influenced by the works of Carl Jung.

Pollack’s fascination with tarot symbolism led her to create her own deck, the Shining Tribe Tarot, which was published in 1981. The deck is known for its use of non-traditional imagery and interpretations.

Mary K. Greer, on the other hand, was introduced to tarot in the late 1960s, when she was given a deck of Pamela Colman Smith’s tarot cards. She quickly became fascinated with the tarot and began reading and studying the cards extensively.

Like Pollack, Greer was also drawn to the psychology of tarot and developed her own approach to tarot reading that focused on self-discovery and self-exploration.

Greer’s early work in the tarot community involved teaching and writing about the tarot, and she quickly became well-known in the community for her expertise and knowledge.

Both Pollack and Greer’s backgrounds in psychology heavily influenced their work in tarot, and their approaches to the tarot were grounded in a deep understanding of the human psyche and its complexities.

Their early work and experiences with tarot helped shape their contributions to the tarot community and their impact on the world of tarot literature and research.

Major Contributions to Tarot

Rachel Pollack has made significant contributions to the tarot community over the years. Here are some of her major contributions to tarot:

Meanwhile, Mary K. Greer has also made major contributions to tarot. Here are some examples:

Pollack and Greer’s combined work has had a significant impact on the tarot community, particularly in the United States, and their publications have been read and studied by countless enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Notable Published Works

Rachel Pollack is a prodigious author who has written numerous books on tarot, spirituality, and mythology. Her notable published works include:

• The Haindl Tarot: The Major Arcana: This book provides an in-depth analysis of the major arcana cards of the Haindl Tarot deck, which was created by Hermann Haindl and draws on a variety of spiritual traditions.
• Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: Published in two volumes, this is considered a foundational work in tarot literature. Pollack explores the symbolism and interpretation of each card in the Waite-Smith Tarot deck and provides practical guidance for readers at all levels.
• The New Tarot Handbook: This book contains exercises and techniques for exploring tarot cards, including meditations, visualizations, and journaling prompts.
• The Forest of Souls: In this book, Pollack draws on her expertise in mythology and storytelling to offer a fresh interpretation of tarot cards that emphasizes intuition and imagination.
• Tarot Wisdom: This book provides an overview of tarot history, symbolism, and spreads, as well as insights into the practice of tarot reading.

Mary K. Greer is also a prolific writer with many published works on tarot, including:

• Tarot for Your Self: This book is one of the most influential works in modern tarot literature. It provides a comprehensive guide to tarot interpretation and includes exercises and spreads for readers at all levels.
• The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals: This book provides a thorough exploration of reversed tarot cards, including their meanings and how to interpret them in spreads.
• 21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card: This book offers a variety of methods for interpreting tarot cards, ranging from traditional spreads to more experimental techniques.
• Understanding the Tarot Court: In this book, Greer explores the often-overlooked court cards in tarot and provides insights into their meanings and roles in readings.
• Who Are You in the Tarot?: This book provides a unique approach to self-discovery using tarot cards, using a combination of numerology, astrology, and other esoteric systems.

Together, Pollack and Greer have also published several works that have had a significant impact on the tarot community, including:

• 78 Degrees of Wisdom: This two-volume work provides a comprehensive overview of tarot interpretation and has become a classic in tarot literature. The book draws on the Waite-Smith Tarot deck and includes insights from a variety of spiritual traditions.
• The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals: Pollack and Greer co-wrote this book, which offers a thorough exploration of reversed tarot cards and their meanings.
• Tarot for Your Self: Pollack and Greer also collaborated on this influential book, which provides practical guidance for readers at all levels and emphasizes the importance of intuition and self-reflection in tarot readings.

These notable published works have had a significant impact on the tarot landscape, inspiring generations of tarot readers and scholars to explore the rich symbolism and interpretation of the cards.

Mary K. Greer

When it comes to the world of tarot, few names are as significant as Mary K. Greer. With a career spanning over 40 years, Greer has not only made major contributions to the study and practice of tarot, but has also helped to expand its reach and influence well beyond the confines of divination. From her early days in the Church of Light to her collaborations with the likes of Rachel Pollack, Greer’s work has had a profound impact on the field, influencing everyone from tarot enthusiasts to scholars of esoteric symbolism. In this section, we’ll delve into the background and major contributions of this celebrated tarot author and scholar.

Background and Early Work

Rachel Pollack’s early interest in tarot began as a child when she received her first deck as a gift from her mother. She studied literature at New York University and began her writing career with science fiction, but her interest in tarot soon took over.

On the other hand, Mary K. Greer’s early background was in mathematics and journalism. She had been interested in tarot since she was a teenager, however, it wasn’t until the 1970s that she began studying and practicing tarot seriously. Greer trained in the Builders of the Adytum (BOTA) system and studied with some of the most well-known tarot readers of the time.

Both women have made a significant impact on tarot through their writing and research. Their backgrounds in other areas of study have given them unique perspectives on the tarot and its symbolism.

Their diverse backgrounds have contributed to their unique perspectives on tarot, allowing them to approach the subject from different angles. This has resulted in a breadth of knowledge and insight into the tarot that has been valuable to readers and scholars alike. Their contributions to the field of tarot have made them both celebrated authors and scholars.

Major Contributions to Tarot

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have each made significant contributions to the study and practice of tarot. Let’s take a closer look at their individual contributions.

Both Pollack and Greer have made significant contributions to the study and practice of tarot. While Pollack has focused on using tarot as a tool for personal growth and exploring queer and feminist themes, Greer’s work has emphasized the historical and cultural significance of tarot and its use as a tool for divination.

Notable Published Works

Both Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have written numerous books on tarot that have become staples in the tarot literature. Here are some of their most notable published works:

• The New Tarot: Modern Variations of Ancient Images by Rachel Pollack: This book is considered one of the first attempts to modernize tarot by exploring new ways of interpreting the traditional card designs.
• Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom: A Book of Tarot by Rachel Pollack: This two-volume book is a comprehensive exploration of the tarot that includes history, symbolism, and interpretation. It is highly regarded by tarot enthusiasts and considered a classic in tarot literature.
• Tarot for Your Self: A Workbook for Personal Transformation by Mary K. Greer: This book is an interactive guide to tarot reading that helps readers connect with their intuition and inner wisdom. It includes exercises and spreads for self-discovery and personal growth.
• The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals by Mary K. Greer: This book focuses on the often-overlooked reversed positions of tarot cards and provides insights into the shadow side of each card.

Together, Pollack and Greer collaborated on three influential books:

• 78 Degrees of Wisdom: This is an updated and revised combined edition of their individual works, offering a complete course in tarot that covers the history and mythology of the tarot, the meanings and methods of the cards, and reading techniques and spreads.
• The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals: This book explores the shadow side of the tarot, which is the reversed meanings of the cards. It includes methods for reversing cards and interpreting them in new ways.
• Tarot for Your Self: This is a workbook for tarot enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of the tarot and themselves. It includes writing prompts, suggested tarot spreads, and step-by-step exercises to improve your tarot-reading skills.

These notable works have contributed to the development and evolution of tarot, expanding and deepening the understanding of the cards and their significance.

Collaborative Work

The combined efforts of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have been the subject of much admiration within the Tarot community. Both authors have made significant contributions to the field of Tarot and their collaborative work has been truly remarkable. Together, they have created several books that continue to inspire and educate readers to this day. Their collaboration has left an indelible mark on the Tarot community and their work deserves recognition.

78 Degrees of Wisdom

One of the most celebrated works of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer is their collaboration on the book 78 Degrees of Wisdom. This book is considered to be one of the most comprehensive and insightful guides to tarot ever written.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part delves into the history of tarot, from its origins in the Middle Ages to its current use in divination and personal growth. The authors discuss the significance of the Waite-Smith Tarot Creator, Arthur Edward Waite, and the artist who brought his vision to life, Pamela Colman Smith. They also explore the significance of the Marseille Tarot, created by the French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette, in the development of tarot.

The second part of the book provides an in-depth analysis of each of the 78 cards in the tarot. The authors discuss the traditional meanings of each card, as well as their own interpretations based on their years of experience working with tarot. They provide exercises and techniques for interpreting the cards, as well as advice on how to use tarot for personal growth and spiritual development.

Overall, 78 Degrees of Wisdom has had a significant impact on the tarot community, as it is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and insightful guides to tarot ever written. It has helped to increase interest in tarot and has contributed to the expansion of the tarot and oracle card communities. Additionally, it is often cited as a major influence by many of today’s most popular tarot authors and readers.

The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals

One of the most notable works that Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer collaborated on is The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals. In this book, they explored the meaning and significance of reversed Tarot cards, which are cards that appear upside down or in the opposite orientation when drawn from a deck.

The authors begin by acknowledging the controversy surrounding reversed cards, as some Tarot readers believe they should not be used at all. However, Pollack and Greer argue that reversed cards can offer valuable insights and additional meanings to a Tarot reading.

They then delve into the different ways that reversed cards can be interpreted, such as as a blockage, a challenge, or a reversed meaning of the upright card. They also share exercises and techniques for incorporating reversed cards into one’s Tarot practice.

Throughout the book, Pollack and Greer emphasize the importance of developing one’s own intuition and personal relationship with the Tarot. They encourage readers to explore the meanings of reversed cards in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to them.

Overall, The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals is a comprehensive and insightful guide for Tarot readers of all levels who wish to deepen their understanding of the Tarot and incorporate reversed cards into their readings.

(Internal link: For more on the history and significance of Marseille Tarot, read our article on Alliette’s contributions to the Marseille Tarot.)

Tarot for Your Self

One of the most notable works co-authored by Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer is Tarot for Your Self. This book stands out from their other collaborations because it provides readers with a comprehensive guide to understanding and interpreting tarot cards. One of the unique features of this book is that it encourages readers to use the tarot as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth, rather than just as a tool for fortune-telling.

Tarot for Your Self has been praised by many in the tarot community for its accessible approach to tarot reading and interpretation. It has become a beloved staple in the libraries of many tarot enthusiasts and practitioners.

This book has had a significant impact on the tarot community, as it has inspired numerous individuals to explore the tarot for personal growth and self-discovery. By emphasizing the psychological and spiritual aspects of tarot, Pollack and Greer have helped to expand the ways in which tarot is used and understood.

Tarot for Your Self is a must-read for anyone interested in tarot, regardless of whether you are just starting out or have been reading for years. The insights provided by Pollack and Greer are invaluable for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the tarot and use it as a tool for personal growth and self-awareness.

Influence on Tarot and Oracle Cards

The impact of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer on the world of tarot extends far beyond their published works. Their contributions have influenced tarot readers and enthusiasts around the globe, leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of this mystical art form. Through their extensive research, writing, and teachings, Pollack and Greer have helped to expand the tarot and oracle card communities and have become celebrated figures in the realm of divination. Their work has not only inspired readers but has also influenced other prominent tarot scholars and experts, such as Alejandro Jodorowsky (read more about his contributions to tarot history here). Let’s delve into the influence Pollack and Greer have had on the world of tarot and oracle cards.

Impact on Tarot Readers

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have had a profound impact on countless tarot readers. Here are some specific ways in which they have influenced and inspired tarot enthusiasts around the world:

• Encouraging intuition: Pollack and Greer have emphasized the importance of tapping into one’s own intuition and personal connection to the cards. Their work helped to popularize the idea that tarot is not just about memorizing meanings, but about developing a deep and personal relationship with the cards.
• Promoting inclusivity: Through their writing and teaching, Pollack and Greer have worked to make the tarot community more welcoming and inclusive, encouraging readers of all backgrounds and identities to explore the cards. This has helped to make tarot more accessible to a wider range of people.
• Offering guidance: Many readers have turned to Pollack and Greer for guidance and insight in their tarot practice. Their books and workshops offer practical tools and exercises for developing one’s skills and working through challenges.
• Creating a community: Through their collaborations and individual work, Pollack and Greer have helped to create a sense of community among tarot enthusiasts. They have provided a platform for readers to share their experiences and connect with others who share their passion for the cards.

The work of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer has had a lasting impact on the world of tarot, inspiring countless readers to explore the cards on a deeper level and connecting people from all walks of life to the rich tradition of tarot.

Contribution to Tarot Literature and Research

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have made significant contributions to Tarot literature and research, establishing themselves as celebrated authorities on the subject. Their books and publications have served as references for countless Tarot enthusiasts, scholars, and practitioners.

One of Rachel Pollack’s major contributions to Tarot literature is her book “78 Degrees of Wisdom,” considered by many as one of the most comprehensive texts on the subject. This book has been published in multiple editions and languages, and its popularity continues to grow. Pollack’s in-depth analysis of each card in the Tarot, coupled with her insights on the history and symbolism of the Tarot, continue to captivate readers and inspire tarot studies.

Similarly, Mary K. Greer has made significant contributions to Tarot literature and research through her numerous publications, including “Tarot for Yourself” and “The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals,” among others. Greer’s emphasis on using Tarot as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery has had a profound impact on the Tarot community. Her approach has been widely embraced and has influenced Tarot readings beyond the traditional divinatory practice.

Pollack and Greer have also contributed to Tarot research through their collaborations and individual works. Their research on the origins and evolution of Tarot continues to shape our understanding of the tarot’s cultural significance and impact. Their insights into the links between Tarot and various spiritual and intellectual traditions have opened up new areas of inquiry in Tarot studies.

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s contributions to Tarot literature and research have been immeasurable. Through their works, they have enriched our understanding and appreciation of Tarot, expanded the boundaries of Tarot practice, and inspired a new generation of Tarot practitioners and scholars.

Table:

| Authors | Significant Contributions to Tarot Literature and Research |
|—————|————————————————————|
| Rachel Pollack | “78 Degrees of Wisdom,” in-depth Tarot analysis and history |
| Mary K. Greer | “Tarot for Yourself,” emphasis on personal growth and discovery |
| | “The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals,” new approach to readings |
| Collaborations | Research on Tarot origins, intellectual and spiritual links |

Expansion of Tarot and Oracle Card Communities

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s contributions to the tarot world have not only impacted readers and researchers but have also led to the expansion of tarot and oracle card communities. Through their influential works, they have inspired many individuals to explore the world of tarot and develop a deeper understanding of its metaphysical implications.

One major way in which they have contributed to the expansion of tarot and oracle card communities is through their teaching and workshops. Both Pollack and Greer have conducted numerous workshops and seminars around the world, providing individuals with a unique platform to learn about tarot and oracle card reading. Through these events, they have not only shared their knowledge but have also encouraged people to create their unique interpretations.

The authors have also played a significant role in building online tarot communities. Both authors maintain active blogs, website, and have an active social media presence where they continue to offer their insights regarding tarot and related topics. This has enabled a global audience to connect with them, seek their guidance and advice on multiple aspects of reading Tarot.

Their collaboration for their books like 78 Degrees of Wisdom, The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals, and Tarot for Your Self, has been instrumental in expanding the tarot community. These books serve as a crucial guide for using Tarot as a means of personal development, psychological growth, and divination. The books not only provide insights into tarot symbolism but also offer practical exercises and techniques for developing a deeper connection with tarot imagery.

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s work has been an immense contribution to the tarot and oracle card world. They have not only enriched the existing body of tarot literature but have also brought Tarot to an entirely new generation of readers and enthusiasts. They have inspired individuals to explore the world of tarot and to use it as a tool for self-discovery and personal transformation.

Table:

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is without a doubt that Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have made groundbreaking contributions to the world of tarot. Their work has not only shaped the literature and research in the field but also expanded the tarot and oracle card communities. Their approach of exploring tarot as a tool for personal and spiritual growth has influenced many tarot readers and seekers alike.

Throughout their collaboration and individual works, Pollack and Greer have shown that tarot is not just a fortune-telling tool but a medium for exploring the depths of one’s psyche, revealing inner truths, and gaining valuable insights into life’s challenges. Their books, 78 Degrees of Wisdom, Tarot for Your Self, and The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals, have become staples for those venturing into tarot reading and spiritual growth.

Furthermore, their dedication and passion for tarot have inspired many to take up the practice, resulting in a flourishing community of tarot practitioners and enthusiasts. The impact of their work has transcended the field of tarot and influenced other forms of divination tools, such as oracle cards, providing seekers with alternative ways of gaining clarity and deeper understanding.

As we reflect on the work of these celebrated tarot authors and scholars, it is evident that they have elevated the art of tarot and expanded its potential for personal growth and spiritual insight. Their legacy will continue to inspire and empower generations of seekers to come, providing a path for self-discovery and illumination through the practice of tarot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tarot?

Tarot is a deck of cards used for divination, meditation, self-discovery, and spiritual growth.

Who were Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer?

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer are celebrated tarot authors and scholars who made significant contributions to tarot literature and research.

What are some of the major contributions of Rachel Pollack to tarot?

Rachel Pollack introduced the concept of using tarot for self-discovery and personal growth. She also highlighted the importance of intuition and empathy in reading tarot cards.

What are some of the major contributions of Mary K. Greer to tarot?

Mary K. Greer emphasized the historical and cultural significance of tarot. She also popularized the use of tarot for personal transformation and provided innovative approaches to reading tarot cards.

What are some of Rachel Pollack’s notable published works on tarot?

Some of Rachel Pollack’s notable published works on tarot include “78 Degrees of Wisdom,” “The New Tarot Handbook,” and “The Forest of Souls.”

What are some of Mary K. Greer’s notable published works on tarot?

Some of Mary K. Greer’s notable published works on tarot include “Tarot for Your Self,” “The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals,” and “Women of the Golden Dawn.”

What is the significance of the collaborative work of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer?

The collaboration of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer resulted in the creation of some of the most comprehensive and insightful tarot books of all time, including “78 Degrees of Wisdom,” “The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals,” and “Tarot for Your Self.”

How have Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer impacted the practice of tarot reading?

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have encouraged tarot readers to approach the cards with open-mindedness, intuition, and compassion. They also helped to expand the tarot community and promote the use of tarot for personal growth and healing.

What is the significance of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s contribution to tarot literature and research?

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s contribution to tarot literature and research has helped to elevate the status of tarot from a mere divination tool to a powerful instrument for self-discovery, personal transformation, and spiritual growth.

How have Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer expanded the tarot and oracle card communities?

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer have contributed to the growth of the tarot and oracle card communities by creating numerous books, workshops, and online resources that promote the art and science of tarot reading.

What is the legacy of Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer?

Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer’s legacy is the advancement of tarot as a legitimate spiritual practice and the elevation of tarot reading as an art form. Their work has inspired countless individuals to explore the magic and mystery of tarot.

References

• Rachel Pollack’s Tarot Wisdom: Spiritual Teachings and …
• Tarot card reading