11 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
2.0 out of 5 stars
More wannablessedbe than Celtic, May 11, 2008
This review is from: Celtic Messages [With 52 Cards for Affirmation & Divination] (Paperback)
I agree with the previous reviewer that the illustrations are charming. That and the round shape of the cards make it at least a less-than-common deck. Its approach is consistent within itself as well. It has nicely innovative layouts (albeit with their own problems, noted below). I was hoping the deck would turn out to be more than it did. But its soft-focus attitude toward the Celts and clear influence of non-Celtic belief patterns on the attitude of the creator left me disappointed.
This deck would be better described as Semi-Wiccan Messages for the Celtically Inclined. The presumptions and approach in this deck are more biased toward the philosophy of Silver Ravenwolf than the ancient Celts (the concept of Brigid being the Great Mother is a case in point) with a dose of pseudo-shamanism. Further, I personally feel any divination system that refuses to allow for "negative cards" is missing half the story. Every layout involves a counter-clockwise pattern in whole or part in direct contradiction to the recorded Celtic belief that moving clockwise is advantageous and prosperous while counter-clockwise motion is seen as negative and useful for insult and challenge. I confirmed that with a simple Google search.
People seeking a system of divination with genuine roots in Celtic tradition and lore would be far better served by Erynn Laurie's work on ogam. This deck is a mish-mash of precious little research and too much modern fantasy.
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4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A very beautiful and wise oracle............, April 18, 2008
This review is from: Celtic Messages [With 52 Cards for Affirmation & Divination] (Paperback)
I got this oracle about 3 months ago and it's been an absolute joy to work with!
They're 52 round cards with many different types of Celtic deities, symbols and animals depicted on them. The artwork is vibrant and very outstanding! It's done by Emma Garner, who's also illustrated many of my other favourite oracles such as Good Witch Bad Witch and Tree Magick.
There is a whimsical charm and warmth to the illustrations and colours used. My intuition and emotions respond right off to them.
There are 4 suits the cards seperated in:
The Place cards, symbolize where you are or where you ought to be.
The Helper cards, symbolize people and their qualities.
The Tool cards, symbolize forces outside yourself, the actions you must take, or the tools needed.
The Totem cards, represent animals that were sacred to the Celts.
With 52 cards they cover a surprisingly large amount of knowledge and wisdom! Also if you have your own insight and knowledge with the Celtic culture the cards and images spark even more associations in your readings. There are 10 great spreads in the book which is 64 pages. The interpertations given are excellent and a great jumping off point.
For the price and the gorgeous illustrations and fascinating book you can't go wrong with this set! if you love all things Celtic it's a must have!
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3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
IT's wonderfulllllll!!!!, December 6, 2010
This review is from: Celtic Messages [With 52 Cards for Affirmation & Divination] (Paperback)
There are no worlds to explain the beauty of this Celtic Message. Each card has a unique and beautifull design that capture you attention. It's full of details on the Celtic civilization and culture.I enjoy it very much every day!
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