The Sufi Tarot: A 78-Card Deck and Guidebook

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As another example, the Five of Staffs, also pictured above, gives a clear representation of the idea of the positive aspects of the card. Energy, drive, being willing to put in the effort to achieve an intended aim and facing healthy challenges are easily recognisable when exemplified by a polo match. Yet, it is not difficult to recognise the potential pitfalls when these motivations are taken too far. This is a great portrayal. These beautiful tarot cards bring together wisdom and insight inherent in the classical tradition of Sufism. The depictions provide deep and resounding resonance with the sacred traditions, a way to engage while still adhering to the fundamentals of both tarot reading and Tasawwuf (Sufism). If you already know about these two traditions, these cards will delight. If you are just learning about these traditions, these cards will help you on your journey. They are colorful, vibrant and beautiful. - Amina Wadud, Lady Imam and Professor Emeritus of Islamic Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University She is currently a mentor at Suluk Academy, a two-year Sufi meditation school based in Richmond, Virginia where she teaches in both a two-year core program and a two-year graduate course.

Sufism is often called the path to the heart because it is a process of turning within to the fountainhead of all knowledge through the opening and purification of the heart. In tarot, we meet the carefree fool, the enigmatic magician, the mystical high priestess, the commanding emperor, the nurturing empress and more—archetypes that represent the many qualities that each of us must call upon on as we follow the "Fool's Journey" through life. ST:I can help you unburden yourself when you have taken on too much so that you can return to a more heart-centred approach and show yourself some compassion.Adherents of Sufism follow the five pillars of Islam just as other practicing Muslims. They declare faith in one God Allah and Mohammed as his messenger, pray five times a day, give to charity, fast and perform the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. 4. Who is Allah according to Sufism? From what I read so far, I am curious to learn more about Sufi beliefs. I asked Ayeda about the depiction of angelic beings in some of the cards. She says that angels are very much part of the Sufi faith and recommended the book Angels Unveiled, A Sufi Perspective by Muhammad Kabbani. I can’t wait to learn more! These beautiful tarot cards bring together wisdom and insight inherent in the classical tradition of Sufism. The depictions provide deep and resounding resonance with the sacred traditions, a way to engage while still adhering to the fundamentals of both tarot reading and Tasawwuf (Sufism). If you already know about these two traditions, these cards will delight. If you are just learning about these traditions, these cards will help you on your journey. They are colorful, vibrant and beautiful. – Amina Wadud, Lady Imam and Professor Emeritus of Islamic Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University Sufism is often called the path to the heart because it is a process of turning within to the fountainhead of all knowledge through the opening and purification of the heart. In tarot, we meet the carefree fool, the enigmatic magician, the mystical high priestess, the commanding emperor, the nurturing empress and more--archetypes that represent the many qualities that each of us must call upon on as we follow the "Fool's Journey" through life. In the hands of a masterful teacher like Ayeda Husain, tarot cards are no mere ‘divination.’ She takes us on a journey through the authentic teachings of Sufi masters until The Sufi Tarot cards become a mirror for reflecting on our own tendencies and inclinations—both where our soul already shines and where we stand to gain balance and lean into complementary qualities. If you love tarot cards, you owe it to yourself to drink The Sufi Tarot with heart and soul. If you love Sufi wisdom, explore the knowledge of our tradition through the aesthetically sublime wisdom of The Sufi Tarot. - Omid Safi, Professor of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Duke University and author of Radical Love: Teachings from the Islamic Mystical Tradition

ST:Healing your heart is a marathon, not a sprint. I’m here for the long haul. I can help you be more patient with yourself and others. The best way to explain this is through examples. Take the Two of Cups pictured above. This is one of my favourite versions of this card because it suggests longevity in the connection. It’s just beautiful. However, what I love about this representation is that the book asks you to ‘examine your ability to give and receive love.’ In the “Contemplations” section it asks two questions: ‘How safe do I feel opening my heart?’ and ‘How well do I guard the hearts of those who make themselves vulnerable to me?’ To experience the connection this couple shares takes work. Awareness, understanding, consideration and a willingness to be vulnerable are necessary. Love is more than butterflies and the initial attraction. This card reminds us of what actually makes a “soul mate connection” rather than suggesting it implies one. Me:Ah yes, this card showed up for me in the reading I did with you yesterday. I guess I really need to engage fully in this work, huh?

The Sufi path is one of unlearning, one in which we learn to let go of limiting thoughts and impressions, unknotting the knots we have tied in our hearts and minds. Whether fear, guilt, or a troubling memory, you do not need to dwell or remain in it. The Sufi approach is to feel it, to understand it, and to then move through it. As Rumi says, “The balm is in the pain.” Ayeda’s Sufi journey started in 1988 when she was initiated into the Chishti school of Sufism. After the death of her teacher, she had a dream that guided her to a Sufi retreat in 2004 where she would meet her current teacher. She has since been a devoted follower of the Inayatiyya where she now serves as a Shaykha, Cheraga, Guide, Representative and Facilitator of the Anjuman-i-Islam group.