Arthur Edward Waite: Creator of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck

Arthur Edward Waite is a name that may not be immediately recognizable to many, yet his impact on the world of occultism and divination cannot be overstated. From his collaboration with Pamela Colman Smith in creating the iconic Waite-Smith Tarot deck, to his extensive writings on subjects such as Kabbalah and ceremonial magic, Waite’s work has left a lasting legacy in the esoteric community. In this article, we delve into the life and work of the man behind the deck that has inspired countless tarot readers and enthusiasts. We will explore his early life and background, his involvement with the notorious Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot deck, and his many other contributions to the occult. Join us as we uncover the fascinating life of Arthur Edward Waite.

Early Life and Background

Arthur Edward Waite was a significant figure in the world of the occult and tarot. Born on October 2, 1857, in Brooklyn, New York, Waite spent much of his life exploring the mysteries of the universe and contributing to the development of esoteric knowledge. Understanding his early life and background is essential for gaining insight and appreciation of his later work. Waite’s family moved back to England when he was very young, and he later became interested in spiritualism, mysticism, and the occult.

Family and Education

Arthur Edward Waite was born on October 2, 1857, in Brooklyn, New York, to Emma Lovell and Charles F. Waite, a wealthy lumber merchant. Waite’s family relocated to England when he was still an infant, and he spent most of his early years living in London.

Education: Waite received his education at St. Charles’ College in London and later at Balliol College, Oxford. While at Oxford, he developed an interest in mysticism and the occult, which would go on to influence his life and work greatly.

Family: Waite’s family was highly influential in his upbringing and early life. His father was a prominent member of the London Stock Exchange, and his mother was a homemaker who was highly interested in spiritualism. Waite also had a younger brother, William Waite, who went on to become a well-known journalist.

Waite’s family and education played a significant role in shaping his interests and ultimately led to his lifelong fascination with the occult and mysticism. This interest would eventually lead him to become a prominent figure in the world of tarot, as he would go on to create the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck in collaboration with Pamela Colman Smith.

Early Career and Interest in the Occult

Arthur Edward Waite’s early career was a mixture of diverse interests, including literature and the occult. Waite’s fascination with the supernatural world began in childhood, with an encounter with a ghost that left a profound impression on him. This experience sparked his interest in the paranormal, and he began to read extensively on the subject, particularly in areas such as spiritualism and alchemy.

After completing his education, Waite began working as a journalist and wrote for several newspapers and magazines. During this time, he also began to write his own books on the occult and esoteric subjects, including “The Mysteries of Magic” and “The Book of Black Magic and of Pacts”.

Waite’s interests in the occult led him to become involved with various secret societies and orders, including the Theosophical Society and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn (HOGD). It was through his involvement in the HOGD that Waite met Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers, who would later become a key figure in Waite’s career.

Waite’s work with the HOGD involved the study of various spiritual and magical practices, including divination, Kabbalah, and Freemasonry. During this time, he also gained a reputation as a skilled occultist and was considered an expert in the field of alchemy.

Arthur Edward Waite’s early career was characterized by his diverse interests and his fascination with the supernatural world. His involvement in secret societies and his extensive reading on the occult paved the way for his later work, including the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck.

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

Arthur Edward Waite was deeply involved in the world of the occult, and one of the most significant chapters in his life was his affiliation with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. The Golden Dawn, a secret society devoted to the study and practice of ceremonial magic, was founded in 1887 and had a profound influence on the development of modern occultism.

Waite was initiated into the Golden Dawn in 1891 and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a member of the organization’s inner circle. During his time with the Golden Dawn, Waite developed his knowledge of the occult and his interest in the tarot deepened.

The Golden Dawn had a significant impact on the history of the tarot, as many of its members, including Waite, developed their own interpretations of the cards based on the organization’s teachings. It was during his time with the Golden Dawn that Waite began to develop the ideas that would eventually lead to the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck.

Interesting fact: Pamela Colman Smith, who would later collaborate with Waite on the creation of the tarot deck, was also a member of the Golden Dawn. However, despite their shared membership in the organization, there is no evidence to suggest that Waite and Smith ever met during this time.

The teachings of the Golden Dawn also had a significant impact on Waite’s literary output. Many of his most important works, including “The Holy Kabbalah” and “The Book of Ceremonial Magic,” were heavily influenced by the ideas he encountered within the group.

Waite’s involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was a crucial factor in the development of his ideas about the tarot and the occult, and helped to establish him as one of the most important figures in the history of both.

The Creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck

The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck is one of the most well-known and widely used tarot decks in the world. Its iconic imagery and symbolism have been the subject of much speculation and interpretation since its creation. The story of how this deck came to be is fascinating, as it was a collaboration between two individuals with very different backgrounds and talents. One of these individuals was Arthur Edward Waite, a prominent figure in the world of occultism and mysticism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The other was Pamela Colman Smith, an accomplished artist and illustrator. Together, they created a deck that would become legendary in the world of tarot. In this section, we will explore the story behind the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck and the impact it has had on the world of tarot and beyond.

The Collaboration with Pamela Colman Smith

Arthur Edward Waite’s collaboration with artist Pamela Colman Smith was crucial to the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck. The two worked closely together for several years in the early 1900s to produce a deck that would become one of the most popular and enduring in the world of tarot.

Smith’s artwork: Waite provided the concepts and ideas for the deck, while Smith brought them to life through her intricate and detailed illustrations. Smith was an accomplished artist and an active member of the Golden Dawn, and her artwork was heavily influenced by the symbolism and imagery of the esoteric organization.

Waite’s influence: Waite was deeply involved in the design process, guiding Smith in the creation of the card imagery and the incorporation of esoteric symbolism. He had a clear vision for the deck, wanting it to be grounded in traditional tarot imagery but also infused with his own unique ideas and interpretations.

The design: Together, Waite and Smith came up with the design for the cards, including the use of colored borders and the placement of the titles and numbering. They also made changes to some of the traditional tarot archetypes, such as renaming the Hierophant card to the High Priest, to better align with their own esoteric beliefs.

The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck has become one of the most widely used and recognizable tarot decks in the world, thanks in no small part to the collaboration between these two talented individuals. The deck’s popularity endures to this day, inspiring countless artists and tarot enthusiasts alike.

The collaboration between Arthur Edward Waite and Pamela Colman Smith was a seminal moment in the history of tarot, and one that continues to be celebrated and studied by tarot enthusiasts around the world.

The Symbolism and Imagery in the Deck

Arthur Edward Waite’s tarot card designs with Pamela Colman Smith are widely revered for their rich symbolism and imagery. The tarot is composed of 78 cards, each with its unique design and meaning. The Major Arcana, a set of twenty-two cards, depicts the Fool’s journey from innocence to fulfillment, while the Minor Arcana consists of four suits of fourteen cards each, signaling the everyday ups and downs of life by using imagery and symbolism.

Waite’s unique imagery was crafted with refined attention, with each card carrying a unique meaning. For instance, the Death card – frightful to some – is actually more about the concept of endings and transformation, and the associated transformation that entails, represented by the figure of Death himself. Waite-Smith Tarot is famous for its symbolic use of animals, flowers, and other natural figures, all of which function as a medium of expression for the deeper, symbolic underpinnings of each card.

One such example is the Nine of Swords. The card depicts a woman in bed, holding her head in her hands, with nine swords hanging from the background. This card speaks to anxiety, sleeplessness, and emotional distress, and its imagery is designed to read as a sort of “cautionary tale” about the emotional effects of uncertain times.

The High Priestess, another important card in the tarot, is represented by a woman sitting between two pillars with a lunar crescent at her feet, holding a scroll. Her presence is meant to symbolize intuition, knowledge, and the sacred feminine. The card’s symbolism is notably unique, as Waite elected to represent the figure of the High Priestess rather than the traditional Hierophant that was and still is prevalent in conventional Marseille Tarot.

The imagery in the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck is not only charming but also philosophical. The designs incorporate numerous mystical symbols and archaic figures to create a profound and inspiring world. This element of the deck stands out as one of its greatest contributions to tarot-history – successfully conveying narratives that are both instructive and engrossing.

The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck’s symbolism has influenced many modern decks, including Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer Tarot authors, and through its use of detailed imagery, it has transformed tarot interpretation worldwide. There are many other decks full of symbols and details to consider in this field, including the works of Pamela Colman Smith Tarot cards, and the Marseille Tarot of Jean-Baptiste Alliette. Nonetheless, the Waite-Smith Tarot remains eternally relevant as one of the tarot’s most thought-provoking creations.

The Reception and Legacy of the Deck

The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck has had a significant impact on the occult and esoteric communities since its creation in the early 1900s. The reception of the deck was largely positive, and it quickly gained popularity among those interested in divination and symbolism.

One of the reasons for the deck’s success was its accessibility. Unlike other tarot decks of the time, which were often complex and difficult to understand, Waite and Smith’s deck had simple, clear imagery that was easy to interpret. This made the deck appealing to beginners and helped to popularize tarot reading as a form of divination.

The legacy of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck can be seen in the many decks that have been inspired by it over the years. Pamela Colman Smith’s illustrations have become iconic and have been reproduced in numerous other decks, while Waite’s interpretations of the cards have been influential in the development of modern tarot theory.

Many prominent tarot authors have also acknowledged the influence of the Waite-Smith deck on their work. Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer, for example, have both cited the deck as an important touchstone in the history of tarot.

The deck’s popularity has not waned over time, and it is still widely used and respected today. Its impact can be felt in numerous areas of the occult and esoteric communities, from the development of new decks to the ongoing study of tarot history and theory.

Table: The Reception and Legacy of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck

| Aspect | Details |
|——|———|
| Reception | Positive, accessible, easy to understand |
| Legacy | Iconic illustrations, influential interpretations, touchstone in tarot history |
| Author influence | Acknowledged by Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer |
| Continuing impact | Widely used and respected in the occult and esoteric communities |

The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck is a significant and enduring contribution to the world of tarot and the occult. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the skill and creativity of its creators, and its legacy continues to inspire and influence tarot readers and enthusiasts to this day.

Other Works and Contributions to the Occult

As we delve deeper into the life and work of Arthur Edward Waite, we discover that his influence on the occult world extends far beyond the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck. With a deep knowledge and understanding of mystical and esoteric traditions, Waite made several significant contributions to the study and practice of the occult. Let us explore some of Waite’s other works and their impact on the field of mysticism and divination.

The Holy Kabbalah

One of Arthur Edward Waite’s most notable contributions to the study of the occult is his book “The Holy Kabbalah”. Published in 1929, this book is considered a classic in the field and remains popular among scholars and practitioners today.

The book explores the history and philosophy of Kabbalah, a mystical tradition within Judaism that seeks to understand the nature of God and the universe. Waite’s approach is scholarly and thorough, drawing on a wide range of sources to provide a comprehensive overview of Kabbalistic thought.

Waite’s writing style in “The Holy Kabbalah” is both accessible and poetic, making it an engaging read for those interested in spirituality and mysticism. He uses vivid language to describe the mystical experience, and his interpretations of Kabbalistic texts are often inspiring and insightful.

One of the key themes in “The Holy Kabbalah” is the idea that the universe is a reflection of the divine. Waite emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of all things and the role of humanity in the divine plan. He also explores the concept of the Tree of Life, a symbol used in Kabbalistic teachings to represent the interconnectedness of the universe and the various paths to enlightenment.

Overall, “The Holy Kabbalah” is a fascinating exploration of a complex and mystical tradition. Waite’s careful scholarship and poetic language make it an enduring classic of occult literature.

Link: For those interested in further exploring the symbolism and imagery of tarot cards, there are many resources available online. Some notable authors and experts in the field include Pamela Colman Smith, Alejandro Jodorowsky, and Rachel Pollack and Mary K. Greer. Additionally, those interested in the history and significance of the Marseille Tarot may find this article helpful.

The Fellowship of the Rosy Cross

Arthur Edward Waite was not only a prominent figure in the world of tarot, but was also deeply involved in various occult organizations. One such organization was “The Fellowship of the Rosy Cross,” which Waite helped to establish in the early 20th century.

The Fellowship of the Rosy Cross was a Theosophical Society branch that functioned as a spiritual community, with its members engaging in esoteric practices like meditation, ceremonial magic, and alchemy to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Among its members were notable occultists such as Aleister Crowley and Dion Fortune.

Waite was known for his interest in alchemy and his studies of the Hermetic alchemical texts. As a result, he played a significant role in shaping the teachings of the Fellowship, emphasizing the importance of spiritual transformation through alchemical practices.

One of the key beliefs of the Fellowship was the idea of the “Rosicrucian Pathway,” or the journey towards spiritual illumination. This pathway, according to Waite, was marked by various stages and could only be achieved through a combination of study, meditation, and practical application of alchemy.

However, the Fellowship of the Rosy Cross was not without controversy. Some members accused Waite of being too focused on the mystical and esoteric aspects of the organization, while neglecting the practical and humanitarian aspects. Additionally, the organization faced criticisms regarding the secrecy of its practices and its elitist nature.

Despite the criticisms, the Fellowship of the Rosy Cross played an important role in the development of esoteric practices and ideas during the early 20th century. And for Waite, his involvement in the organization was just one example of his deep commitment to the study and practice of the occult.

The Book of Ceremonial Magic

One of Arthur Edward Waite’s most notable contributions to the study of the occult is “The Book of Ceremonial Magic.” This book, first published in 1911, remains a significant reference work for those interested in the history and practice of ceremonial magic.

In “The Book of Ceremonial Magic,” Waite provides a comprehensive overview of the various systems of magic and ritual that have been used throughout history. He draws on a wide range of sources, including ancient grimoires and manuscripts, to analyze the different approaches to ceremonial magic and highlight their underlying principles and symbolism.

Through his extensive research, Waite sheds light on the esoteric traditions that form the basis of many modern magical practices. He explores the role of ritual and symbolism in magic, as well as the use of incantations, talismans, and other magical tools.

One of the key features of “The Book of Ceremonial Magic” is Waite’s attention to detail when it comes to the practical aspects of performing ceremonies and rituals. He provides instructions and diagrams for many different types of magical operations, such as the evocation of spirits and the consecration of magical instruments.

Overall, “The Book of Ceremonial Magic” is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the study of magic and the occult. It is a testament to Waite’s deep knowledge and expertise in this field, and his commitment to preserving and sharing the wisdom of the ages.

Personal Life and Legacy

As we delve into the personal life and legacy of Arthur Edward Waite, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the mysticism. Despite his contributions to the occult and his lasting impact on tarot, Waite remains shrouded in enigma. Through examining his later years and his influence on the world beyond his passing, we can begin to unravel the mysteries surrounding this intriguing figure. Join us as we explore the remnants of Waite’s legacy and attempt to understand the lasting impact of his work.

Later Years and Death

In his later years, Arthur Edward Waite focused on his writings and continued to make contributions to the occult community. He remained an active member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn until it dissolved in 1903. Afterward, he founded his own group called the Fellowship of the Rosy Cross, which followed a Christian approach to the occult. He also remained an influential figure in the theosophical movement, writing articles and giving lectures on the subject.

In 1923, Waite’s wife passed away, leaving him devastated. He was known to be a private person, and this event hit him hard. However, he continued to write and publish new works, including his book “The Hidden Church of the Holy Grail”. Waite also became involved in a literary dispute with Aleister Crowley, another prominent figure in the occult community. The two had a tumultuous relationship, and Waite criticized Crowley’s approach to the occult as being too focused on personal gain and power rather than spiritual enlightenment.

Despite his ongoing contributions to the occult community, Waite faced financial difficulties in his later years. He had made many investments throughout his life, but many of these had not panned out as expected. Waite also struggled with health issues, and his vision began to deteriorate. He passed away on May 19, 1942, at the age of 85.

However, his legacy continues to live on in the world of tarot and occultism. The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck, which he co-created with Pamela Colman Smith, remains one of the most popular decks in use today. His writings on the occult, including “The Holy Kabbalah” and “The Book of Ceremonial Magic”, continue to be studied and referenced by those interested in the subject. Waite’s impact on the occult community cannot be overstated, and he remains a respected figure in the field to this day.

The Lasting Impact of Waite’s Work

Arthur Edward Waite’s work continues to influence and shape various aspects of esotericism and occultism to this day. Here are some of the ways in which he has left a lasting impact:

• The Waite-Smith Tarot Deck: Waite’s collaboration with Pamela Colman Smith resulted in the creation of a deck that revolutionized the world of tarot. The imagery and symbolism he incorporated into the deck have become a standard in the field and continue to influence and inspire new tarot decks and interpretations.
• Esoteric Christianity: Waite’s writings on Christian mysticism and esotericism have had a significant impact on how some individuals interpret and practice Christianity. His book “The Hidden Church of the Holy Graal” is an example of his work in this area and has been influential in shaping alternative interpretations of the Bible and Christian traditions.
• Kabbalism: Waite’s book “The Holy Kabbalah” is a classic in the field of Jewish mysticism and continues to be a respected and influential work on the subject. His interpretations and insights on the Kabbalah have influenced many subsequent works on the topic.
• Hermeticism: Waite’s interest in the Hermetic tradition led him to become a member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and to write extensively about the subject. His works on Hermeticism have helped to popularize and spread knowledge of this esoteric tradition.
• Alchemy: Waite’s book “The Hermetic Museum” is a collection of alchemical works that he translated from Latin and German. This book is still widely used as a reference and has helped to make alchemical literature more accessible to English-speaking readers. Waite’s interest in alchemy also influenced his work on the tarot.

These are just a few examples of the many ways in which Arthur Edward Waite’s work has had a lasting impact on the world of esotericism and occultism. His legacy continues to inspire and influence individuals who are interested in these topics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Arthur Edward Waite was a fascinating figure in the world of occultism and esotericism. His early life and education shaped his interest in the supernatural and the mystical, leading him to become involved with organizations like the Rosicrucians and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

However, it was the creation of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck with artist Pamela Colman Smith that cemented Waite’s legacy. The deck’s unique symbolism and imagery, as well as Waite’s dedication to creating a deck that was accessible to all, has ensured its enduring popularity.

Yet, the deck was just one part of Waite’s contributions to the occult. His writings on the Kabbalah, ceremonial magic, and the Rosicrucians continue to be studied and appreciated by practitioners today.

In his personal life, Waite was known for his charitable works and dedication to his family. He lived a humble life and remained committed to the study and practice of the occult until his death.

Overall, Arthur Edward Waite leaves behind a legacy that is both complex and multifaceted. He was a man ahead of his time, and his ideas and contributions continue to shape the world of occultism today. As such, he remains a figure of fascination and study for those interested in the history of the occult and mystical practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired Arthur Edward Waite to create the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck?

Waite was dissatisfied with the existing tarot decks of the time, which he believed were lacking in symbolism and spiritual depth.

Who did Waite collaborate with to create the deck?

He collaborated with artist Pamela Colman Smith, who illustrated the deck based on Waite’s instructions and vision.

What makes the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck different from other tarot decks?

The deck incorporates a great deal of symbolism and spiritual imagery, drawing heavily from Waite’s own knowledge of the occult and his belief in the importance of spiritual development.

What was the reception of the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck when it was first published?

The deck was initially met with mixed reviews, but eventually became one of the most popular tarot decks in the world.

What other works did Waite contribute to the field of esoteric knowledge?

Waite wrote extensively on subjects such as Kabbalah and ceremonial magic, and was a member of various esoteric organizations.

What was Waite’s involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn?

He was a member of the Order, and heavily involved in its teachings and practices.

What was the significance of the imagery used in the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck?

The imagery was carefully chosen and rich in symbolism, meant to convey deeper spiritual meanings and assist with personal development.

What was Waite’s personal life like outside of his esoteric work?

Not much is known about Waite’s personal life, as he kept it largely private.

What impact has the Waite-Smith Tarot Deck had on the world of tarot?

The deck has had a massive impact on the world of tarot, still being used and studied today by tarot enthusiasts around the world.

What is the lasting legacy of Arthur Edward Waite?

Waite’s contributions to the field of esoteric knowledge have made a lasting impact, with his works still being studied today and continued interest in his spiritual beliefs and practices.

References

• The Rider Tarot Deck®: Arthur Edward Waite, Pamela …
• A. E. Waite