John King Van Rensselaer
Prophetical, Educational and Playing Cards
"Prophetical, Educational and Playing Cards" by Mrs. John King Van Rensselaer is a comprehensive study of the history and significance of playing cards, written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the origins and various uses of cards, particularly focusing on how they have evolved from instruments of divination tied to ancient religious practices to their modern roles in gambling and recreation. The text suggests a deep connection between the symbolism found in card decks and the ancient mysticism surrounding figures like Mercury and Thoth. The opening of the book presents a detailed exploration of the three main categories of playing cards: those for divining, those for gambling, and those for educational purposes. It explains the historical context in which these cards developed, alluding to their ancient roots in fortune-telling practices. The author sets the stage for a thorough analysis of how these cards embody the rituals and beliefs of cultures long past, claiming that traditional Tarot decks, with their rich imagery and symbolic elements, serve as a modern extension of these ancient mysteries.