This text explains the symbolism and use of the Thoth Tarot deck. It was written by Aleister Crowley and published in London in 1944 as part of The Equinox series.
- Published March 21, 1944, by Ordo Templi Orientis
- Explains the Thoth Tarot deck designed by Crowley and Harris
- Original edition limited to 200 signed copies
- Integrates Hermetic Qabalah, astrology, and alchemy
- Part of The Equinox series, volume III, number 5
What it is
This book serves as a manual for the Thoth Tarot deck. It covers the deck's symbols, philosophy, and practical applications. The work is part of The Equinox, volume III, number 5. It was released on March 21, 1944. The original print run contained only two hundred signed copies. These were bound in Moroccan leather and printed on pre-war paper. The author sold the entire first edition within three months.
Where it comes from
Aleister Crowley created the Thoth Tarot deck with Lady Frieda Harris. She painted the cards between 1938 and 1943. Crowley wrote this text to explain their design. He drew upon many esoteric systems. These include ceremonial magic, astrology, and alchemy. The deck also reflects Egyptian mythology and Thelema. Thelema is the religious philosophy founded by Crowley. The book integrates Hermetic Qabalah into its structure.
How it is done
The text is divided into four main sections. Part One covers the theory of the tarot. Part Two discusses the Atu or Trumps. Part Three examines the Court Cards. Part Four details the Small Cards. Each section contains specific chapters. An appendix explains divination methods. Another appendix states that correspondences are not arbitrary. It also includes diagrams linking mathematics to spiritual concepts.
Tools and materials
The primary tool is the Thoth Tarot deck itself. The book references the Tree of Life diagram. It connects the ten Sephirot to mathematical conic sections. It also attributes I Ching trigrams to these spiritual nodes. The text relies on the visual symbols painted by Harris. These images convey the philosophical ideas described by Crowley.
The Book of Thoth, drawn and placed
- Living
- Revived
- Fading
- Historical
- Legendary
- Performed
- Lineage
- Thelema
What it is for
Readers use this book to understand the deck's meaning. It helps practitioners interpret the cards for divination. The text aims to clarify the complex symbolism. Users study it to grasp the underlying magical philosophy. It provides a framework for working with the cards. The goal is to apply the deck's insights to personal practice.
Who does it
Scholars and occultists study this text. It is part of Crowley's bibliography. The work targets those interested in ceremonial magic. Readers often explore it alongside other Thelemic writings. The original edition was limited to serious collectors. Modern readers access it through various publishers.
Peoples and places
The book originates from the United Kingdom. It was published by Ordo Templi Orientis. Later editions appeared in New York. The text appeals to English-speaking occult communities. It remains a key reference for Thoth Tarot users worldwide.
At a glance: who, where and when
Who does it
Belief worlds
What people believe
The work is grounded in Thelemic philosophy. It views the tarot as a tool for spiritual insight. The symbols connect to broader esoteric traditions. Practitioners believe the cards reveal hidden truths. The text asserts that card correspondences are fixed. This view shapes how users interpret the deck.
When it is done
The book was published on the vernal equinox of 1944. This date holds significance in Crowley's system. It marks a specific astrological moment. The release timing aligns with magical rituals.
How scholars and sceptics see it
Researchers examine this text within occult history. It documents Crowley's later magical theories. Scholars analyze its integration of diverse systems. The work is studied for its influence on modern tarot. Critics and supporters alike engage with its content.
Cautions and what is closed
The original edition was expensive. Its value has increased significantly over time. Collectors must verify authenticity. Some modern reprints differ from the original layout. Readers should be aware of these variations.
Compare and confuse
This book differs from standard tarot guides. It focuses specifically on the Thoth deck. Other texts may cover different decks or general meanings. The Thoth system uses unique symbols and colors. Its approach is more complex than traditional decks.
Law and persecution
The text is widely available today. It is not restricted by law. Publishers continue to produce new editions. The original limited edition is a collector's item.
Questions people ask about The Book of Thoth
What is The Book of Thoth?
It is a guide to the Thoth Tarot deck, written by Aleister Crowley. It explains the deck's symbols and magical philosophy.
Who created the Thoth Tarot deck?
Aleister Crowley conceived the deck, and Lady Frieda Harris painted the cards between 1938 and 1943.
When was the book first published?
The first edition was released on March 21, 1944, the vernal equinox, in London.
What systems does the book draw upon?
It combines ceremonial magic, astrology, alchemy, Egyptian mythology, and Thelema, Crowley's religious philosophy.
Good reading and sources
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "The Book of Thoth (Crowley)", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryJaadu rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Names and customs differ from one community to the next, and some knowledge is closed to outsiders and left out here. This page describes belief and practice. It does not say that any of it works, it is not a how-to, and it is not medical advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-09.
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