Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana

by Dovid Krafchow

An introduction to the ancient kabbalistic origins and meanings of the tarot

• Reveals the intimate relationship of the tarot to the esoteric teachings of the Torah and the Kabbalah

• Provides kabbalistic interpretations for all 78 traditional tarot cards

• Includes a detailed kabbalistic reading and interpretation of the Tree of Life spread

When the Greeks invaded Israel and forbade study of the Torah, the Jewish people began a secret method of Toranic study that appeared to be merely a simple way to fill playing cards. These first tarot decks enabled study of the Torah without detection. Once the Maccabees expelled the Greeks from Israel and Israel once again became a Jewish kingdom, tarot cards dropped from sight. Fifteen hundred years later, in response to Jewish disputations with Catholic theologians, political and religious persecutions, and ultimately the Inquisition, the cards resurfaced as a secret learning tool of the Torah.

In Kabbalistic Tarot, Dovid Krafchow details how the true meaning of the tarot is locked within the Kabbalah. He shows the correspondence between the 22 Major Arcana cards and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet and how the four suits correspond to the four kabbalistic worlds of Briah, Yitzerah, Asiyah, and Atzilut. He describes the kabbalistic meanings of each of the 78 cards and their relations to the Torah and provides insight into the Tree of Life spread through several kabbalistic readings.

Genres: Tarot, Judaism, Religion

Paperback

First published July 11, 2005

About the author

I have been drawn to words for as long as I can remember, even before I truly knew how to read.
After high school, I joined the U.S. Navy, and it was during that time that I began reading seriously. Words became more than language to me, they became a doorway into worlds beyond imagination. By the time I left the Navy in 1965, I had already decided that I would become a writer.

What followed was not a straight path, but a search. I traveled over 30,000 miles across America, and eventually turned inward, choosing to pursue truth through my Jewish roots. I burned everything I had written and began again, learning Hebrew and dedicating myself to decades of studying ancient texts. For over fifty years, I have immersed myself in these teachings, drawing from them insights that continue to shape my understanding of life, spirit, and human nature.

My life has taken me through many extremes, love and loss, creation and destruction, clarity and confusion. I have known stability and I have known homelessness. There were times I could not write, and times when writing was the only thing that kept me alive.

At one point, believing I was near death, I set out to write everything I could. In just a few years, I wrote multiple books and experienced a recovery that I can only describe as miraculous.

I have now written over twenty books. My work is deeply influenced by a lifetime of spiritual study, lived experience, and a relentless search for truth. I do not write from theory, I write from life.

Today, I stand at a place of clarity and purpose, ready to share my work more widely than ever before.

If you are searching for something deeper, something honest, raw, and real, you may find it in my books.

Reviews

[Hilary Flexer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm speaking from a Jewish perspective in regards to this book--- One thing about this piece that stuck out for me, was the connections between the symbols of the cards and the symbols of the Kabbalah (which to me, are teachings that reveal the contents of Jewish soul and the workings of the Divine Soul). In this way Krafchow has bridged for me the gap between my inner life and the "plain" meaning of the cards, as previously I tended towards viewing them merely at face value: as a complicated tool of divination, rather than approaching the deck with the idea that it could give me depthful insights into my psychology and spiritual path. It is easy to read and follow which is great for me because I have some reading comprehension issues. So very well written. This should be in any Tarot reader/ collector's library.

[Alexandra Juliet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot is one of the most fascinating books I’ve read on the deeper spiritual meaning behind tarot. Rather than just explaining card meanings on a surface level, the author connects tarot symbolism with Kabbalistic wisdom in a way that feels thoughtful and enlightening. The explanations helped me see the cards as part of a larger spiritual system rather than isolated images. I especially appreciated how the book bridges mystical philosophy with practical tarot interpretation. It’s clear that the author has a deep understanding of both traditions. If you’re interested in tarot beyond simple readings and want to explore its mystical roots, this book is definitely worth reading.

[Adegoke Olumide · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a unique and insightful look into tarot through the lens of Kabbalah. What impressed me most was how clearly the author explains complex spiritual ideas without making them feel overwhelming. Each card becomes part of a much larger metaphysical map, which adds depth to tarot practice. I found myself reflecting on the symbolism long after finishing each chapter. It’s not just a guide for readings; it’s also a book about spiritual understanding and personal growth. Readers who enjoy mystical traditions or esoteric studies will likely find this book both inspiring and intellectually engaging. Highly recommended for anyone exploring tarot seriously.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides a refreshing perspective on tarot by linking it with the profound teachings of Kabbalah. The author clearly has a deep appreciation for both traditions, and that passion comes through on every page. I found the insights into symbolism particularly interesting because they added layers of meaning to cards I thought I already understood. Instead of treating tarot as simple divination, the book frames it as a path toward greater awareness and understanding. That approach makes the reading experience both educational and inspiring. For anyone looking to expand their tarot knowledge in a more spiritual and philosophical direction, this is a wonderful resource.

[Carolyn B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana offers a refreshing and meaningful perspective on Tarot. The author thoughtfully connects the symbolism of the cards with Kabbalistic teachings, revealing links such as the relationship between the 22 Major Arcana and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet and the deeper spiritual structure behind the deck. The book invites readers to see Tarot not just as a tool for divination, but as a pathway to wisdom and reflection. A rewarding read for anyone interested in the mystical and philosophical side of Tarot.

[Margaret Grobertbson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana by Dovid Krafchow provides an intriguing introduction to the deeper, ancient connections between Tarot and Kabbalistic teachings. The book thoughtfully explores the symbolic meanings of both the Major and Minor Arcana through a Hebraic and mystical perspective. While some parts are quite detailed, readers interested in spirituality, mysticism, and Tarot symbolism will find the insights enlightening and rewarding. Overall, it’s a valuable read for those looking to explore the spiritual foundations behind the Tarot

[Julian Creativity · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great read for anyone interested in tarot and spirituality. It explains the deep connection between tarot cards and the wisdom of Kabbalah in a way that is easy to follow and very interesting. I really enjoyed how the author breaks down the meanings of the cards and shows how they relate to the Tree of Life and the Hebrew letters. It gave me a new perspective on tarot and helped me understand the cards on a deeper level. Highly recommended for both beginners and experienced readers.

[Alice Nora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a fascinating perspective on the Tarot by connecting it with deeper Kabbalistic and Hebraic wisdom. The explanations of both the Major and Minor Arcana are thoughtful and insightful, making the cards feel richer and more meaningful. I especially appreciated how the author blends spiritual tradition with practical interpretation in a way that is clear and engaging. It’s a valuable read for anyone interested in Tarot from a more mystical and philosophical angle.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a unique and thoughtful exploration of Tarot through the lens of Kabbalistic tradition. The author presents deep spiritual connections between the Hebrew alphabet, the Tree of Life, and the Tarot in a way that feels both insightful and accessible. I enjoyed how each card is given a richer symbolic meaning that goes beyond typical interpretations. It’s a fascinating read for anyone interested in the mystical roots of Tarot and the wisdom behind its symbolism.

[ove · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book because I’ve always been curious about the deeper symbolism behind tarot cards. What I liked most is how the author connects tarot with Kabbalistic ideas and explains the meanings behind the symbols instead of just listing card interpretations. It made me look at the cards in a more thoughtful way. Some parts take a little focus, but overall it was an interesting and unique perspective on tarot.

[Many More · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot is a fascinating and insightful book that beautifully connects tarot symbolism with the wisdom of the Kabbalah. The explanations of the Major Arcana, Hebrew letters, and the Tree of Life add a deeper spiritual dimension to tarot reading. It’s clear, thought-provoking, and perfect for anyone who wants to explore tarot beyond basic interpretations. Highly recommended for students of tarot and mysticism.

[Margaret S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana offers a thoughtful exploration of Tarot through the lens of Hebraic mystical tradition. Dovid Krafchow connects the symbolism of the Major and Minor Arcana with deeper Kabbalistic teachings, giving readers a fresh and insightful perspective on Tarot. It is an engaging read for anyone interested in spirituality, symbolism, and the deeper philosophical meaning behind the cards.

[BookFlix Studio · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out to me most was how the book encourages reflection and deeper thinking about the cards rather than simply memorizing interpretations. The discussions about symbolism, spirituality, and personal awareness add a lot of value for readers who want to grow spiritually. Even readers who are somewhat new to Kabbalistic ideas can follow along with the explanations. Overall, it’s an enriching and thought-provoking read that I would gladly recommend.

[AL · Rating 5 out of 5]

A valuable source of insights into the relationship of Kabbalah and Tarot, and how to use the cards as more of a spiritual guide than for fortune telling. His insights into the card meanings (using the classic Pamela/Waite/Rider deck) are some of the most unique and valuable I have encountered in many years. I will definitely be referencing this book for years to come.

[Annareynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana by Dovid Krafchow. It offers a really unique and insightful way of understanding tarot through Kabbalah and Hebrew symbolism. The explanations are clear and thought-provoking, making the cards feel much deeper and more meaningful. A great read for anyone interested in tarot and spiritual symbolism.

[Margaret Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana by Dovid Krafchow offers a thought provoking look at Tarot through the lens of Kabbalah. The book blends mystical symbolism, Hebrew concepts, and Tarot interpretations in a way that feels both spiritual and intellectually engaging. A unique read for anyone interested in deeper, esoteric meanings behind the cards.

[Anne Margret · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated the depth of research and the clear explanations throughout the book. It made me see tarot as more than a fortune-telling tool—it’s a symbolic system filled with wisdom and introspection. This is a great addition to the library of anyone who enjoys tarot, mysticism, or spiritual studies.

[Evelyn Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book adds a deeper spiritual dimension to tarot reading. The connection to Kabbalah makes the interpretations feel richer and more philosophical. I appreciated the author’s clear explanations and thoughtful insights. Definitely recommended for readers who enjoy exploring the mystical side of tarot.

[James Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book opened a completely new perspective on tarot for me. The way the author connects the Major Arcana with the Hebrew alphabet and Kabbalistic ideas is fascinating. It made me look at tarot as a tool for spiritual reflection rather than just divination. Highly recommended for anyone interested in deeper symbolism.

[Bill Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am not sure of this book to be honest. I honestly don’t think tarot goes back as far as the author claims. Also I feel you can’t always think too deeply when pulling cards. I do feel this may be a good reference book when a person feels stuck or needs to be more in depth for specific things.

[Mia W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot: Hebraic Wisdom in the Major and Minor Arcana by Dovid Krafchow offers a fascinating look at the connection between Tarot and Kabbalistic wisdom. Insightful, thought provoking, and perfect for readers interested in the deeper spiritual meaning behind the Tarot. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoughtful and intriguing exploration of tarot through Kabbalistic teachings. The author explains the symbolism of the cards in a way that feels meaningful and reflective. I enjoyed how the book connects tarot with deeper spiritual ideas. A great read for anyone interested in mysticism and tarot.

[Keith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kabbalistic Tarot offers a fascinating perspective on tarot symbolism. The book encourages readers to look beyond simple card meanings and explore the spiritual concepts behind them. It’s insightful, reflective, and well written. A great addition to any tarot or esoteric studies collection.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting read for anyone curious about the deeper meanings of tarot. The integration of Kabbalah adds a unique layer of interpretation that makes the cards feel more profound. I found it both educational and inspiring. Highly recommended for tarot enthusiasts.

[Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the thoughtful approach this book takes toward tarot and spirituality. The explanations are clear, and the connections to Kabbalistic ideas add depth to the reading experience. It’s a great book for readers who want to explore tarot from a more mystical perspective.

[Orevia Expert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful and thought-provoking read. The author brings together mysticism, tarot symbolism, and spiritual philosophy in a way that feels both insightful and accessible. I found the explanations of the cards especially enlightening.

[Bonn Victor · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most unique tarot books I’ve read. The Kabbalistic interpretations give the cards a deeper meaning and make you think about tarot in a more spiritual and philosophical way. I’ll definitely revisit this book again and again.

[Kim Dallmeier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting Tarot interpretation.

[Cep Subhan KM · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting interpretation for symbols in Tarot cards. It is not always easy to understand but in general it is astonishing.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

The historical sections of this book are superb, as are Krafchow’s explanations of the sefirot. I found the parts pertaining to Tarot, however, to be vague and hard to follow.