Since time immemorial, people were searching for a universal language that would transcend cultural, religious, and language barriers. This chapter presents the system of Tarot images as both symbolic language, full of implicit meanings, and as a pedagogical tool to complement the existing aids in moral/spiritual education. The chapter is grounded in the educational philosophies of John Dewey and Nel Noddings; and positions Tarot within “other strategies to be employed” (Crawford and Rossiter) in spiritual education. Tarot pictures embody intellectual, moral, and spiritual “lessons” derived from collective human experiences across times, places and cultures. As a system of communication and interpretation, Tarot is oriented toward the discovery of meanings for the multiplicity of experiences that would have otherwise lacked meaning and significance. The meaning of Wisdom is embodied in the image of “The High Priestess”. The process of interpretation contributes to our development and learning from experience; and enriches our personal and collective identities.
International Handbook of Education for Spirituality, Care and Wellbeing p. 631-652
International Handbooks of Religion and Education 3