The Witches Tarot Ellen Cannon Reed Pdf |verified| May 2026
The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed: A Guide to the PDF and Deck
The Witches Tarot, created by High Priestess Ellen Cannon Reed and illustrated by Martin Cannon, is a landmark work in modern occultism that bridges the gap between Wiccan practice and traditional Qabalistic symbolism. Originally published in 1989 by Llewellyn, it has remained a staple for Pagans seeking a deck that reflects their spiritual path while maintaining deep esoteric roots. Seeking the "The Witches Tarot" PDF
While many users search for a PDF of Ellen Cannon Reed's work, it is important to distinguish between available formats:
Official Digital Access: While physical copies are often preferred for their tactical nature, digital versions may be available for loan through platforms like the Internet Archive, which hosts a scanned copy of the 1989 edition.
Companion Guides: The 320-page companion book, often titled The Witches Tarot: The Witches Qabala Book 2, provides the essential meanings and meditations for the deck.
Legal Note: Be cautious of unauthorized "free PDF" downloads from third-party sites, as these often infringe on the copyrights held by the author's estate or Llewellyn Worldwide. Core Philosophy: Qabala Meets the Craft
Reed’s deck is unique because it explicitly maps the Major Arcana to the paths of the Qabalistic Tree of Life while using imagery that resonates with Witches and Pagans.
Renamed Cards: To better fit a Pagan worldview, several traditional cards were renamed: The High Priest (replaces the Hierophant) The Horned One (replaces the Devil) The Seeker (replaces the Hermit)
Thematic Suits: Each suit follows a distinct color theme to aid in quick recognition during readings: Wands: Yellow Cups: Blue Swords: Red Pentacles: Green Key Features of the Deck and Book
Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed (published by Llewellyn Publications) is a specialized companion guide and deck that blends Wiccan philosophy with Qabalistic symbolism. Book & Deck Overview
Purpose: The 320-page companion book serves as a sequel to The Witches Qabala, focusing on the "paths" of the Qabalistic Tree of Life as they relate to Tarot.
Key Symbolism: Reed replaces traditional archetypes to better suit Pagan practice, such as changing The Devil to "The Horned One," The Hierophant to "The High Priest," and The Hermit to "The Seeker".
Content: Includes full descriptions for all 78 cards, including Hebrew letters, astrological attributions, colors, scents, and gem correspondences.
Art Style: The cards, illustrated by Martin Cannon, feature realistic, rural settings and vibrant, borderless art intended for meditation and pathworking. Access & Availability The Witches Tarot (Llewellyn's Modern Witchcraft Series)
Ellen Cannon Reed The Witches Tarot is a seminal work for practitioners looking to bridge Qabalistic symbolism with Pagan and Wiccan practice. If you are looking for information on this specific book and deck, 📖 The Companion Guide Summary
The 320-page book is not just a list of meanings; it is designed as a complete system for pathworking and meditation.
Card Meanings: Includes descriptions of each card’s Hebrew letter, astrological correspondence, color, scent, and gemstone.
Pagan Shifts: Traditional cards are renamed to better fit Wiccan themes, such as The Horned One (The Devil) and The Seeker (The Hermit).
Unique Spreads: Features the Four Seasons Spread, designed specifically for the turning of the Wheel of the Year.
Magical Use: Provides instructions for using the cards in spellwork and rituals, such as the "Rite of Mending Love". 💻 Finding the PDF Legally
While the physical deck and book set are often considered rare collector's items—sometimes priced as high as $300—you can access the text digitally through these official or legal channels:
The witches tarot : Reed, Ellen Cannon, 1943 - Internet Archive
The witches tarot : Reed, Ellen Cannon, 1943- : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. Internet Archive The Witches Tarot (Llewellyn's Modern Witchcraft Series)
I can’t provide or help find copyrighted PDFs. I can, however, write an original article summarizing and reviewing The Witches’ Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed, including its themes, structure, notable cards, and how it differs from other tarot decks. Would you like a concise review (≈300–500 words) or a longer deep-dive (≈1,000–1,200 words)?
In the late 1980s, Ellen Cannon Reed , a High Priestess of the Isian tradition, sought to bridge the gap between two deeply spiritual worlds: the ancient Qabalistic Tree of Life and the modern Pagan path. The result was The Witches Tarot
, a deck and companion book first published in 1989 that re-imagined the traditional tarot through a Neopagan lens. The Core Philosophy
Reed’s "story" is one of spiritual synthesis. She believed that while traditional tarot (like the Rider-Waite-Smith) was powerful, its imagery often felt disconnected from the lived experience of Witches and Pagans. Working with artist Martin Cannon, she crafted a system where:
The Hierophant became The High Priest, shown holding an athame over a chalice to perform a symbolic Great Rite. the witches tarot ellen cannon reed pdf
The Devil was transformed into The Horned One, stripping away associations of evil to return the figure to his original form as a powerful, loving stag-crowned God.
The Hermit became The Seeker, reflecting the active quest for wisdom. A Map of the Soul
The companion book, often found in PDF or print archives, serves as a practical guide for using these cards as more than just divination tools. It is a manual for pathworking—a meditative technique where the reader "enters" the card to travel the paths of the Qabalistic Tree of Life. Each card is meticulously assigned specific correspondences, including:
The witches tarot : Reed, Ellen Cannon, 1943 - Internet Archive
Bridging Worlds: A Look at Ellen Cannon Reed's "The Witches Tarot" First published in 1989, The Witches Tarot
by Ellen Cannon Reed remains a seminal work for practitioners seeking to harmonize Western occultism with modern Paganism. While many decks focus solely on the artistic or divinatory aspects of the cards, Reed’s deck—and its accompanying 320-page guide—serves as a comprehensive manual for the Qabalistic and Wiccan traditions. The Core Philosophy: Qabala Meets Wicca
The defining feature of Reed’s system is its integration of the Qabalistic Tree of Life with Wiccan symbolism. Reed was the first to explicitly discuss the Tarot from both perspectives in a single volume, showing how each of the 22 Major Arcana cards associates with specific paths on the Tree.
Pagan Imagery: Illustrated by artist Martin Cannon, the deck uses bright, luminous images designed to appeal specifically to "paganfolk".
Symbolic Departures: Unlike the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition, Reed’s system utilizes court cards primarily to modify subsequent cards in a reading rather than having isolated meanings. Deck Structure and Design
The deck follows a traditional 78-card structure but employs specific color coding for its suits to align with elemental associations: Wands: Yellow Cups: Blue Swords: Red Pentacles: Green
The cards are notable for being borderless, allowing the "amazing, brilliant, and intense" artwork to stand on its own. Where to Find the Book and Deck
If you are looking for a digital version or a physical copy of this classic set, several options are available:
Archive and Digital Access: The Internet Archive hosts a digital copy of the 1989 publication for those with "print disabled" access or through their lending library system.
Official Publishers: The set is traditionally published by Llewellyn Publications, which originally released it as part of their "Modern Witchcraft Series".
Collector's Notes: It is important to distinguish this deck from the more recent "Witches Tarot" by Ellen Dugan. Reed’s deck is often preferred by those interested in the Qabalistic paths and a more traditional, ritualistic approach to the cards.
The witches tarot : Reed, Ellen Cannon, 1943 - Internet Archive
The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
The Witches Tarot, created by Ellen Cannon Reed, is a tarot deck that has gained popularity among modern witches and pagans. This guide provides an in-depth look at the deck, its history, and its symbolism, as well as offering practical advice on how to use the cards.
About Ellen Cannon Reed
Ellen Cannon Reed was an American witch and writer who was active in the 1960s and 1970s. She was a member of the Gardnerian tradition of Wicca and wrote several books on witchcraft, including "The Witches' Tarot" and "The Witch's Covens and Chalices". Reed's work on the tarot was groundbreaking, as she was one of the first people to create a tarot deck specifically designed for witches and pagans.
The Witches Tarot Deck
The Witches Tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The deck features detailed illustrations of magical and mystical symbols, including goddesses, gods, magical creatures, and occult symbols.
Major Arcana
The Major Arcana cards in The Witches Tarot deck represent major life themes, transitions, and spiritual lessons. Some of the cards in this section include:
- 0. The Fool: Representing new beginnings and innocence
- 1. The Magician: Symbolizing skill, manifestation, and personal power
- 2. The High Priestess: Embodying intuition, wisdom, and secrecy
- 3. The Empress: Representing abundance, nurturing, and fertility
Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits, each representing a different aspect of life: The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed: A
- Wands (Creativity, Passion, Energy)
- Cups (Emotions, Relationships, Intuition)
- Swords (Thoughts, Communication, Logic)
- Pentacles (Material Possessions, Finances, Practicality)
Using The Witches Tarot
To use The Witches Tarot deck, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the symbolism and meanings of each card. Here are some tips for getting started:
- Shuffle and cut the deck: Develop a ritual for shuffling and cutting the deck to connect with the cards and focus your intentions.
- Choose a spread: Select a tarot spread that resonates with your question or situation. You can find many spreads online or create your own.
- Interpret the cards: Look at each card in the spread and consider its meaning in the context of your question or situation.
- Synthesize the reading: Combine the meanings of the individual cards to gain a deeper understanding of the reading.
Tips for Working with The Witches Tarot
- Connect with the goddess: The Witches Tarot deck is infused with goddess energy. Take a moment to connect with the divine feminine before working with the cards.
- Use the deck for self-reflection: The Witches Tarot is an excellent tool for self-reflection and personal growth. Use the deck to explore your thoughts, emotions, and desires.
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you work with The Witches Tarot, the more comfortable you'll become with the symbolism and meanings of the cards.
Where to Find The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed
The Witches Tarot deck is available in various formats, including:
- PDF: You can find a PDF version of The Witches Tarot guidebook online, which provides detailed information on the deck and its symbolism.
- Printed deck: The Witches Tarot deck is available for purchase online or in metaphysical stores.
- App: There are also mobile apps that feature The Witches Tarot deck, allowing you to access the cards on your smartphone or tablet.
Conclusion
The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed is a powerful tool for modern witches and pagans. With its rich symbolism and detailed illustrations, this deck offers a unique perspective on the tarot and its applications. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you'll be able to tap into the magic of The Witches Tarot and deepen your understanding of the mystical and mysterious.
Download The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed PDF
If you're interested in accessing a PDF version of The Witches Tarot guidebook, you can try searching online for:
- "The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed PDF"
- "The Witches Tarot guidebook PDF"
- "Ellen Cannon Reed The Witches Tarot PDF"
Please note that some websites may offer pirated or unauthorized versions of the PDF. Be sure to only access reputable sources to respect the author's work and intellectual property.
The Witches Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed is widely regarded as a seminal work for practitioners who want to bridge Wiccan/Pagan spirituality with Qabalistic symbolism. While the deck was first published in 1989, it remains a "collector's tome" because it is the first to clearly explain Tarot from both these points of view. Core Review Highlights
The Content (Book): Reviewers from Aeclectic Tarot and Manteia agree that the accompanying 320-page book is superior to the deck itself. It provides deep dives into the Qabalistic Tree of Life, pathworking, and specific card correspondences like Hebrew letters, scents, gems, and astrological attributions.
Artistic Style: The art by Martin Cannon consists of borderless, luminous oil paintings. While some find the imagery "arresting" and powerful, others on Amazon have criticized it as "tacky" or "cartoonish," noting that the characters sometimes resemble "Barbie and G.I. Joe" figures. Unique Features:
Renamed Majors: Several cards are renamed to fit Pagan themes—The Devil becomes The Horned One, The Hierophant becomes The High Priest, and The Hermit becomes The Seeker.
Court Card System: Unlike most decks, the Court cards in this system do not have individual meanings; they act as "modifiers" for the next card dealt.
Four Seasons Spread: The kit includes a unique layout sheet for this specific spread, which is not commonly available elsewhere. Pros & Cons
Comprehensive Guide: The book is one of the few that makes complex Qabala topics "understandable".
Static Court Cards: Some users dislike that all Court cards of the same type (e.g., all Kings) have identical imagery.
Pagan Focus: Deeply rooted in Wiccan philosophy rather than just being a "Rider-Waite clone".
Subjective Art: The "pre-computer" oil painting style can feel dated or overly "pretty" to modern readers.
Great for Learning: Recommended for beginners who want to learn both Tarot and the Tree of Life simultaneously.
Hard to Find: As a legacy title, it can be rare and expensive to find in its original boxed format.
You can find the full text available for preview or research at the Internet Archive.
The Witches Tarot (Llewellyn's Modern Witchcraft) - Amazon.de
I can’t provide a direct PDF or a full reproduction of The Witches’ Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed, as it’s a copyrighted published work. However, I can offer you an original short story that incorporates the themes, symbolism, and archetypes from that deck and book.
Here’s a story inspired by the essence of Reed’s approach — blending Wiccan spirituality, tarot archetypes, and the journey of a modern witch.
Title: The Fool’s Walk
Elara had owned The Witches’ Tarot for seven years, but she’d never been able to shuffle the deck without a tremor in her hands.
The cards weren’t just paper to her. They were thresholds. Ellen Cannon Reed’s images — the Horned God staring from the Emperor card, the Crone’s silhouette in the shadows of the Moon — felt less like illustrations and more like mirrors into a world she could almost touch on Samhain night.
Tonight, she finally dared.
A candle flickered on her altar, casting the three-footed cauldron’s shadow against the wall. She drew:
0 – The Fool (the young witch with a white rose, stepping off a cliff between two towering oaks).
IX – The Hermit (a hooded figure holding a lantern shaped like a crescent moon).
XVII – The Star (a naked woman pouring water from twin chalices into a moonlit spring).
She frowned. Fool, Hermit, Star — a path of beginnings, solitude, and hope. Too poetic. Too vague. She needed answers about her failing coven, the blight on her garden, the nightmares of a figure in a crow mask.
A knock came at her door. Three slow raps. Then silence.
Outside stood a woman in a tattered black cloak, her face hidden beneath a hood. In her gloved hand: the exact same three cards, but the images had shifted. The Fool’s rose had thorns dripping blood. The Hermit’s lantern revealed a skull inside. The Star’s water was evaporating into smoke.
“You drew the lesson,” the woman whispered. “I drew the consequence.”
Elara stepped back. The woman entered, each step leaving a faint frost on the wooden floor. “Ellen’s deck was never meant for divination,” the stranger said, pulling down her hood. Her face was Elara’s — but older, scarred, with eyes like cinders. “It’s a map for initiation. The Fool isn’t you. It’s what you must kill.”
Before Elara could speak, her doppelgänger touched the Star card. The room dissolved into a forest under perpetual twilight. Elara felt her memories peel away — first her name, then her coven’s faces, then the feel of the sun.
In that void, she heard the Hermit’s voice: “To become the Star, drown the Fool’s fear.”
She understood then. The blight on her garden was her own doubt. The crow-masked figure was her terror of leading alone. The deck had waited for her to stop asking and start walking.
Elara reached into the cauldron she now realized was inside her chest — and pulled out a single card she’d never seen before: The Weaver (a woman spinning a web from a spindle of moonlight, the Horned God and Mother Goddess as threads).
She looked at her older self. “You’re not the consequence. You’re the guide.”
The doppelgänger smiled — and crumbled into autumn leaves.
When Elara woke at her altar, the three cards lay face-up. But now, The Fool held a lantern. The Hermit’s hood was thrown back to reveal a young woman’s face. And The Star’s water flowed green with life.
She shuffled the deck once more. No tremors.
From that night on, she never did a reading for herself again. She didn’t need to. The cards had become her Book of Shadows — not fortune-telling, but transformation.
And whenever a seeker drew The Fool, Elara would whisper: “That’s not a warning. That’s an invitation to leap.”
If you’re looking for the actual text of The Witches’ Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed, I recommend checking your local library, used bookstores (e.g., AbeBooks, ThriftBooks), or a legal ebook retailer. For the companion deck, look for the edition illustrated by Martin Cannon (her son).
I can’t provide a PDF download for The Witches’ Tarot by Ellen Cannon Reed, as that would likely violate copyright. However, I can give you a guide to using the deck and book based on publicly available information and common study approaches:
1. Buy the Digital Edition
Llewellyn now offers many of their back-catalog titles as official e-books. You can purchase a legitimate PDF or Kindle version of The Witches Tarot directly from:
- Llewellyn.com
- Amazon (Kindle Store)
- Google Play Books
- Barnes & Noble (Nook)
The price is standard ($15-$25 USD), and you get a searchable, high-quality file.
2. How to Study Without the PDF
- Buy the set: Still in print (Llewellyn). Includes book + cards. Used copies are affordable.
- Use a library: Check WorldCat or local metaphysical libraries.
- Pair with Reed’s other works: The Witches’ Qabala (helps understand her symbolic system).
Structural Differences: Breaking the RWS Mold
Users accustomed to the Rider-Waite-Smith system will find significant differences in The Witches Tarot. Reed was not afraid to alter the "standard" iconography to fit her Qabalistic framework.
1. The Major Arcana: While the order remains standard, the imagery shifts. For example, The Fool is not a carefree youth stepping off a cliff, but a blindfolded figure, representing the unknowable nature of the Divine before manifestation. The High Priestess sits between the pillars of severity and mercy but is depicted with tools specific to Wiccan practice.
2. The Minor Arcana: This is where the deck shines for students of esotericism. Reed replaces the "pip" cards (cards that just show cups or swords) with illustrated scenes, but the scenes are derived from the Golden Dawn meanings, which sometimes contradict the RWS meanings that most modern readers memorize. Minor Arcana The Minor Arcana cards are divided
3. Court Cards: The hierarchy is renamed to fit a magical structure: Page, Knight, Queen, King. However, their elemental associations are strictly enforced, representing specific personality types rooted in the elements of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth.
