Showing posts with label oracles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label oracles. Show all posts

Thursday, 6 August 2026

Divination: The Egyptian Gods Oracle by Silvana Alasia

 





The Egyptian Gods Oracle Cards 

by Silvana Alasia 

Like ancient Egypt? This oracle deck inspired by the mythology, symbolism, and artistic traditions of ancient Egypt. Published by Lo Scarabeo, it is intended as both a divination tool and an introduction to the Egyptian pantheon through richly detailed artwork. The deck has become popular among readers interested in Egyptian spirituality, mythology, and Kemetic-inspired practice. 



The set contains:

  • 36 oracle cards
  • An accompanying guidebook (128 pages in the current English edition)
  • Artwork painted in a tempera-on-papyrus style, giving the cards the appearance of ancient Egyptian tomb paintings and papyrus manuscripts. 


Unlike tarot, the deck does not follow the 78-card Major and Minor Arcana structure. Instead, each card represents a deity or sacred concept whose mythology offers guidance for meditation, self-reflection, and spiritual growth.



The Artwork

If you have seen Alasia’s Egyptian Tarot, you’ll immediately recognise her distinctive style. Her illustrations are based on authentic Egyptian artistic conventions:


  • Profile figures
  • Flat perspective
  • Traditional colour symbolism
  • Hieroglyphic inscriptions
  • Temple-inspired compositions


Rather than modern fantasy interpretations, the artwork aims to evoke the feeling of standing inside an ancient Egyptian temple or viewing a painted papyrus. 


The Deities

The deck includes many of Egypt’s best-known gods and goddesses, such as:



  • Ra — illumination, vitality and divine consciousness
  • Amun-Ra — hidden power and spiritual authority
  • Thoth — wisdom, magic, learning and communication
  • Hathor — beauty, music, compassion and abundance
  • Bastet — passion, protection and independence
  • Anubis — transformation, endings and spiritual guidance
  • Maat — truth, justice and balance
  • Isis — healing, motherhood and magical power
  • Osiris — rebirth and renewal
  • Horus — courage, kingship and higher vision


Each card combines mythological symbolism with practical guidance, encouraging the reader to embody the qualities represented by the deity.


Reading with the Deck

The cards work well for:

  • Daily guidance
  • Meditation
  • Spiritual journaling
  • Altar work
  • Working with Egyptian deities
  • Pathworking and visualisation


Because the cards contain little or no explanatory text on their faces, much of the interpretation comes from the guidebook and from the reader’s own understanding of Egyptian mythology. Many experienced readers find this encourages intuitive development. 


The deck is praised for:

  • Beautiful authentic-looking Egyptian artwork
  • Strong mythological atmosphere
  • High-quality production
  • Accessibility for beginners while still offering depth for experienced practitioners
  • Suitability for meditation and deity work


Among tarot and oracle enthusiasts, it is frequently recommended as one of the more visually impressive Egyptian-themed oracle decks. 



The deck has also attracted some criticism, particularly from practitioners of modern Kemetic religion. Some readers feel that certain mythological associations are simplified or adapted for modern oracle reading rather than reflecting ancient Egyptian theology with complete historical accuracy. A recurring point of discussion is the inclusion of the chaos serpent (often rendered as Apophis/Apep), which some Kemetic practitioners prefer not to depict or name due to religious tradition.  I can see their point but there are other decks that provide more details. At the end of the day, it’s down to personal preference.

For readers approaching the deck as a spiritual or symbolic oracle rather than a scholarly reconstruction of Egyptian religion, these concerns may be less significant.


Is it suitable for Wiccans and modern witches?

Those with an  interest in Wicca, occult symbolism, and Egyptian spirituality, may find the deck is likely to appeal to you. It lends itself well to:

  • Sabbat and Esbat reflections
  • Deity invocation
  • Ancestor work
  • Shadow work
  • Meditation before ritual
  • Building relationships with Egyptian deities


It also pairs particularly well with Alasia’s Egyptian Tarot, allowing tarot readings to be supplemented with deity-based oracle messages.


Overall, the Egyptian Gods Oracle Cards is one of the most attractive Egyptian-themed oracle decks available. While it should not be regarded as a definitive guide to ancient Egyptian religion, it succeeds as an evocative oracle that captures the beauty and symbolic richness of the Egyptian pantheon and provides meaningful guidance for meditation and personal spiritual practice. 



The deck is readily available from most stores and online retailers.


https://www.amazon.co.uk/Egyptian-Oracle-Cards-Silvana-Alasia/dp/073877314X


https://www.deep-books.co.uk/product/egyptian-gods-oracle-cards-or52-38609/


36 full col cards & instructions

Imprint :Lo Scarabeo

Publication Date : 25/11/2022 

Isbn :9788865277591


About Silvana Alasia 

Silvana Alasia is an Italian artist, illustrator, and painter best known for creating some of the most visually distinctive Egyptian-themed tarot and oracle decks published by Lo Scarabeo. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she has combined a strong grounding in classical art with a fascination for ancient cultures, producing decks that are admired for both their beauty and historical.



Born in Turin, Italy, in 1963, Alasia studied at the Aldo Passoni Art Institute, graduating in 1982. She began her professional career in the 1980s as a graphic artist and illustrator, producing artwork for children’s books and educational publishers while also working in advertising for major Italian companies such as Armando Testa and Ferrero. Alongside her commercial work, she developed a career as a fine artist, exhibiting paintings in galleries throughout Italy. 


Tarot and oracle decks

From the late 1990s onward, Alasia became closely associated with Lo Scarabeo, creating decks that draw heavily on the art, mythology, and symbolism of ancient civilisations. Her best-known works include:

  • Egyptian Tarot
  • Tarot of Nefertari
  • Etruscan Tarot
  • Cleopatra Tarot
  • Maya Tarot
  • Egyptian Gods Oracle Cards
  • Color Meditation Cards
  • Egyptian Sacred Animals Oracle 


Many of these decks have been translated into multiple languages and are distributed worldwide.


Artistic style

Alasia’s artwork is immediately recognisable. Rather than creating fantasy versions of ancient Egypt, she carefully studies archaeological sources and ancient artistic conventions. Her work typically features:

  • Figures painted in the style of Egyptian wall reliefs and papyri.
  • Authentic clothing, jewellery, and ritual objects.
  • Bright mineral colours similar to those found in tomb paintings.
  • Hieroglyphs and symbolic motifs integrated into the composition.
  • A calm, formal quality that reflects ancient Egyptian religious art.


Her illustrations often look less like modern fantasy paintings and more like museum-quality recreations of ancient papyrus manuscripts. 


Inspiration

Although many of her decks are designed for divination, Alasia approaches them primarily as artistic interpretations of history and mythology. Her Egyptian decks blend historical research with the long-standing Western esoteric tradition that associates tarot with ancient Egypt and the legendary Book of Thoth. This gives her work a distinctive balance between archaeological inspiration and symbolic spirituality. 


Reputation

Within the tarot community, Alasia is widely respected for her craftsmanship and attention to detail. Collectors often praise:

  • The historical atmosphere of her artwork.
  • The elegance of her compositions.
  • Her ability to make ancient myths feel alive and accessible.
  • The consistency of her artistic vision across multiple decks.


Even readers who prefer other tarot systems frequently regard her Egyptian-themed decks as among the finest ever produced.


Why her work stands out

What distinguishes Silvana Alasia from many esoteric artists is that she is first and foremost a professional illustrator and painter. Her extensive experience in commercial illustration, children’s publishing, advertising, and fine art is evident in the clarity, precision, and balance of her compositions. Rather than relying on dramatic fantasy imagery, she evokes mystery through faithful visual storytelling rooted in ancient cultures. 


If you have an interest in Egyptian mythology, the occult, and tarot, Alasia’s work is especially rewarding because it combines artistic authenticity with rich symbolic content. Her Egyptian Tarot, Tarot of Nefertari, and Egyptian Gods Oracle Cards complement one another beautifully, offering different perspectives on the mythology, religion, and symbolism of ancient Egypt.

https://www.facebook.com/share/19mKLctRZm/?mibextid=wwXIfr


Thursday, 30 July 2026

Divination; Oracle of the Fairies by Karen Kay

 





Oracle of the Fairies deck by Karen Kay, with enchanting artwork by Ginger Kelly

44 card deck with guide book

Published first 2019 Hay House

Available full size or as a pocket edition ( reviewed here),



A deck to connect with the symbolism of the fairy realm, nature spirits, and the changing seasons for personal reflection and spiritual guidance. 





Theme and Philosophy

Karen Kay describes fairies as the guardians of nature and gentle spiritual allies who encourage humanity to reconnect with the Earth. Unlike some older folklore, where fairies could be mischievous or even dangerous, this deck presents them as benevolent beings offering wisdom, encouragement and practical advice for everyday life. The emphasis is on hope, healing, gratitude, and manifestation rather than prediction or fortune-telling. 


The messages encourage readers to:

  • Spend more time in nature.
  • Trust their intuition.
  • Heal emotional wounds.
  • Recognise opportunities for growth.
  • Manifest positive changes through gratitude and mindful intention.



Artwork

Ginger Kelly’s illustrations are one of the deck’s greatest strengths. The paintings are rich with:

  • Woodland landscapes
  • Flowers and ancient trees
  • Butterflies and birds
  • Crystal-clear streams
  • Ethereal fairies illuminated by soft light


The imagery creates a dreamlike atmosphere that many readers find calming and meditative. Each card contains a full-colour illustration with a keyword and brief message that is expanded upon in the guidebook.


Structure of the Deck

Rather than depicting individual named fairies from Celtic or European folklore, most cards focus on themes or situations. Examples include:

  • Protection
  • Abundance
  • New Beginnings
  • Transformation
  • Nature’s Signs
  • Hidden Depths
  • Inner Child
  • Ask for Help
  • Journey
  • Trust in the Magic


Each guidebook entry explains:

  • The overall meaning.
  • Spiritual guidance.
  • Practical advice.
  • Ways to work with the fairy energy represented by the card.


Reading Style


The deck is especially suitable for:


  • Daily one-card guidance.
  • Meditation.
  • Journaling prompts.
  • Seasonal readings.
  • Personal growth.
  • Nature-based spiritual practice.

The messages are generally gentle and uplifting. Even cards addressing challenges tend to frame them as opportunities for healing rather than warnings.


Connections with Wicca and Modern Paganism

Although Oracle of the Fairies is not specifically a Wiccan deck, many of its themes resonate strongly with modern Pagan spirituality:

  • Reverence for nature.
  • Respect for the changing seasons.
  • Awareness of elemental energies.
  • Honouring the unseen world.
  • Living in harmony with the Earth.


Those who practise Wicca, Druidry, or nature-based witchcraft often incorporate the deck into rituals celebrating the Sabbats, especially Beltane, Midsummer (Litha), and Mabon, when folklore traditionally speaks of the veil between the human and fairy worlds becoming especially thin.


It is worth noting that the deck reflects a modern spiritual interpretation of fairies rather than the more ambiguous and sometimes perilous beings found in traditional Celtic and British folklore.


Readers often praise the deck for:

  • Beautiful, immersive artwork.
  • Clear, accessible messages.
  • Positive and encouraging guidance.
  • High-quality guidebook.
  • Excellent choice for beginners while remaining rewarding for experienced readers.


Many people also find it an effective companion to meditation and mindfulness practices because of its strong emphasis on connecting with the natural world. Community discussions frequently recommend it as a welcoming first oracle deck, especially for those drawn to fairy or nature spirituality. 



Who Will Enjoy This Deck?

Oracle of the Fairies is particularly well suited to readers who:


  • Feel a deep connection to forests, gardens, and the countryside.
  • Enjoy fairy folklore and mythology.
  • Practise nature-based spirituality.
  • Prefer gentle guidance over highly confrontational readings.
  • Want an oracle deck that inspires optimism and self-reflection.


Those seeking a darker or more traditional portrayal of the Fair Folk—closer to medieval folklore or the complex faeries of Celtic myth—may prefer the The Faeries’ Oracle, which explores a broader range of fairy archetypes, including more mysterious and challenging aspects of the Otherworld.


Overall, Oracle of the Fairies succeeds as a beautifully illustrated and approachable oracle deck that encourages readers to slow down, reconnect with nature, and cultivate hope, intuition, and wonder. Its combination of luminous artwork and positive, practical guidance has made it one of Karen Kay’s most enduring and widely loved creations. 


The deck is easily obtainable.

Pocket edition 

ISBN:

9781837823048


Large version 


Publication Date:

10/01/19

ISBN:

9781788173230


https://www.hayhouse.co.uk/the-pocket-oracle-of-the-fairies-card-deck


https://amzn.eu/d/06lCPCrL


About Karen Kay

Karen Kay is a British spiritual author, oracle deck creator, speaker, and event organiser best known for her work centred on fairies, nature spirits, and elemental spirituality. She is widely known as “The Fairy Whisperer®”, a title she uses to describe her work of encouraging people to reconnect with the natural world through the symbolism and wisdom of the fairy realm. 




Early Life and Career


Karen has said that her fascination with fairies began in childhood while spending time in her grandmother’s garden. She recalls collecting rose petals to make “perfume” as an offering to the flower fairies—an experience she describes as the beginning of her lifelong spiritual connection with nature. She has also stated that she is related to the poet Walter de la Mare, whose writings often explored fairy lore and the supernatural. 


Before becoming a full-time spiritual teacher, Karen trained as a broadcast journalist and worked as a BBC news editor as well as for independent radio stations. She has often contrasted this analytical career with her later work in spirituality, describing it as a journey from journalism into the mystical. 


Author and Oracle Creator

Karen has become one of the more recognisable contemporary creators of fairy-themed oracle decks published by Hay House. Her works include:

  • Oracle of the Fairies
  • Manifesting with the Fairies
  • Messages from the Mermaids
  • Fairy Whispering: 111 Magical Practices for Connecting with the Fairies
  • The Enchanted Realms Oracle, released in 2026, which expands beyond fairies to include dragons, unicorns, elves, gnomes, pixies, and other beings from folklore. 


Her books and decks are intended to provide inspiration, meditation, and personal guidance rather than predict the future. A recurring theme is that fairies are guardians of nature who encourage people to care for the Earth and reconnect with its rhythms. 


Fairy Philosophy


Karen’s teachings blend several influences:

  • Modern angel spirituality.
  • Nature mysticism.
  • Manifestation practices.
  • Mindfulness.
  • Positive psychology.
  • Contemporary interpretations of fairy folklore.


She presents fairies as loving, high-vibrational beings who help people cultivate joy, gratitude, creativity, healing, and a deeper relationship with the natural world. This differs significantly from traditional Celtic and British folklore, in which the Fair Folk could be unpredictable, morally ambiguous, or even dangerous.


Festivals and Community


Karen has played a significant role in building the modern fairy-spirituality community in Britain. She founded or helped establish several events, including:

  • The 3 Wishes Fairy Festival.
  • The Avalon Faery Ball in Glastonbury.
  • The Urban Faery Ball in London.
  • The international magazine FAE (Faeries and Enchantment), for which she serves as editor. 


These gatherings combine workshops, music, costume, storytelling, meditation, and celebrations inspired by folklore and nature spirituality.


Media Appearances


Karen has appeared on British television and radio programmes discussing fairy folklore and spirituality, including appearances on ITV’s This Morning and Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch. She also gives workshops, guided meditations, and talks both in person and online. 


Reception


Karen’s work has been warmly received by many readers interested in oracle cards, nature spirituality, and gentle forms of personal development. Her oracle decks are frequently recommended to beginners because of their clear messages and accessible style.


Scholars of folklore, however, generally distinguish her teachings from historical fairy beliefs. Traditional British, Irish, and Scottish folklore portrays fairies as complex supernatural beings whose intentions could range from benevolent to dangerous, whereas Karen’s work reflects a modern spiritual interpretation that emphasises healing, environmental awareness, and personal growth.


Karen Kay occupies an important place within the contemporary New Age and oracle-card community. Her work encourages readers to experience nature as sacred and to approach the fairy realm as a symbolic source of inspiration, intuition, and wonder. Whether one views fairies as literal beings, spiritual archetypes, or poetic metaphors, her writings consistently invite readers to cultivate mindfulness, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the living world.