Customer Reviews

The Celtic Tree Oracle: A System of Divination

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This amazing little set is based on the Celtic tree alphabet, the Ogham (pronounced oh-um). As one reviewer mentioned, this is not just a tarot deck with tree cards: this is a completely different divination system. The Murrays present a complex layout which I think is rather exhaustive, but gives a very clear insight. If their system is too much, though, you can use other layouts; I've had good results with the standard Celtic cross layout and the three-card spread as well. The book is well-written and informative, and each card's meaning intertwines with the history of the tree. You can also use your own associations with the trees to interpret the cards' meanings. For me, the deck is incredibly accurate, and it's the one I turn to most often for omens or other divinatory purposes. I thought the wooden box was a nice touch, too. ;)

While this is not a classic tarot configuration, it is a must for those interested in Celtic and Druidic divination systems. As a divination tool it is easy to use and amazingly intuative in it's interpretations, making it wonderful for beginners. It uses the ancient Ogham alphabet and it's corelations to the trees and other icons held dear by it's creators, the Celts. While the companion book is not long, it is very informative and concise. Background information on the history of the alphabet is researched in depth with references to many associated resources. This book is an ESSENTIAL reference to druidic symbolism. If one is not familiar with Celtic symbolism, this set will draw you in completely and inspire you to dive head first into this ancient seed of western mysticism.

But most of all, the illustrations and intuative interpretations provided are excellent. While the illustrations do not overwhelm the eye, they do impart a very profound sense of connection to the representation of the letter and it's associated icon. The interpretations are clear without being overly simplistic.

I have had this deck for years and it will always remain one of my very favorites!

When I received this pack in the mail I was not expecting what I got - but it was wonderful once I opened it up and started reading the book and looking at the cards and putting two and two together. The set is housed in a beautifully crafted wooden box with reading sets, layouts and beautiful book which lays down the history and everything that you could possibly read about the Celtic tree and Ogham. Would thoroughly recommend it to any Irish/Celtic enthusiast.....

The Celtic Ogham Tree Cards are a wonderful introduction into the Celtic Culture. The Murray's knowledge of Celtic history and folklore is evident in their explanation of how to read and interpret the tree cards. Vanessa Card uses muted colors for her intricate and delicate pen and ink illustrations of the trees on the cards. I have used the Celtic Tree Oracle for quite a few years and I recommend this system of divination to anyone that is curious about what the surrounding elements may have to say them.

Warning: if you are a beginner DO NOT START HERE. This book and system do not lend themselves easily to those who are just starting out. On the other hand, if you are experienced and love Celtic culture, this is a wonderful system. The book is comprehensive and the cards and art are lovely. Plus, those who are drawn to the Celts will make a distinct connection. I've found if you have patience you will get wonderful results.

we came to this oracle...
dear lovers of Druidic and Celtic lore,
... in a rather roundabout way. A friend had given us The White Goddess By Robert Graves (Amended & Enlarged Ed) Farrar, Straus, Giroux, a book that we finally, and gladly, got to reading over a 15 yrs later. Graves' book led us to an interest in the Celtic Tree Oracle, from which we drew a card each day for a year and put on our magic table in order to become familiarized with the system. As it is, we seldom use this oracle alone but find it very effective when used in conjunction with the The Celtic Shaman's Pack: Exploring the Inner Worlds/Book and Cards and the Druid Animal Oracle, drawing a card from each to give us a full reading. You may also find that this system is very valuable as a supplementary oracle, that is drawing a card to get more information, after you've already drawn your tarot cards, etc.
kyela,
the silver elves

This set has the distinction of being one of the first (if not THE first) ogham system made available to the general public. Despite 18 years passing since it's first publication, most of the scholarship is still sound and it still makes a nice first set for the ogham user. It's only flaw lies in the fact that only one spread is presented, composed of 15 cards total. Users will have to devise or use simpler layouts that they know from other systems. It also uses the 25 ogham system, which has become less traditional than the 20 ogham system most use. Overall, this project was a labor of love and many many years in the making and it shows.

First, I must expound on the beautiful packaging in which this set is delivered - A wooden box inclusive of Book, Cards, Pad and Layout suggestion sheet. This kind of attention to detail is what you'll find throughout the book and cards.

Remember that the Ogham is not another form of tarot, but more like the Norse rune system with the symbols or runes representing a particular tree or related symbology. The Druids were by and far connected to the spirit of place through the trees, the Oak being the most sacred of all. If one gives this set an opportunity to speak for itself, without any preconceived ideas as to what it should be, I think any reader would be impressed. Both beginner and experienced, alike.

The cards are bit small, just slightly smaller than playing cards, and the book is a bit controversial, alluding to the Celtic tree calendar, the existence of which is a point of contention among many Celtic scholars. Beyond that, I am thoroughly happy with my set and have enjoyed many insightful readings.

Colin Murray passed on during the creation of this set, and I extend my heartfelt condolences and thanks to Liz Murray, who found the strength and courage to carry on.

This set of divination cards comes in a sturdy wooden box and the cards are beautifully illustrated. I wish everyone would agree on the trees and meanings of the Ogham, but this version works for me. The book has a handy reference list on the inside cover with card meanings and page numbers for more detailed interpretations. Charts are included for card layouts, but I like to simply pull a card and reflect on whatever the image brings up for me. Excellent gift for Celtic fans.

I totally agree with the reviewer that says this is not for beginners. This was one of the first divination "sets" I ever bought - years and years ago. I never liked it or used it that much because I found it, well, difficult.

As time has gone by and I have developed my Tarot skills, I have found myself turning to these cards more and more - slowly learning to appreciate them. I'm really growing to like them!