Tarot De Marseille Into the Abyss

A Cunning Man's Journal

In my recent reflections, I’ve been exploring the intersection of technology, magic, and tradition. Despite my background in computer science and a once keen interest in "grey hat" hacking, I’ve found myself slipping behind in the ever-evolving tech world, much to the amusement of my younger clients. The algorithms that shape our digital experiences have a love-hate relationship with me, sometimes delivering profound content and other times provoking annoyance to keep me engaged. One such moment of fascination came through a Tarot de Marseille animation that beautifully illustrated "the path" of the occult seeker—beginning with initiation, facing challenges, and ultimately confronting the abyss. It reminded me of the timeless symbols that continue to surface, even in the modern age.

I’ve also been reflecting on the Tarot itself, particularly the Tarot de Marseille. Unlike the more visually symbolic Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the Marseille deck’s simplicity can be a challenge for many, though I find it a valuable teaching tool for psychic development, spellcasting, and revealing occult secrets. During my time studying the deck, I learned some of the rules passed down by a student of Philippe Camoin, a descendant of its original creators. The "rule of gazes," for example, provides structure in a reading, showing how many cards to pull and where to place them. The Tarot can easily become a crutch for some, but when approached properly, it offers not just insight but a system of laws that reveal deeper truths...