A Mandala of Cards The Buddha Tarot

-Robert M. Place

A Mandala of Cards: The Buddha Tarot by Robert M. Place is a companion book to The Buddha Tarot deck, which uniquely integrates Buddhist philosophy with the traditional structure and symbolism of tarot. This work explores the parallels between the life journey of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and the archetypal "Fool's Journey" depicted in the major arcana of tarot.

The book delves into the history and evolution of tarot, tracing its roots from the Middle Ages to its modern interpretations. It also examines Western mysticism and philosophy, including Platonic and Neoplatonic influences, and connects these traditions with Buddhist teachings. The author provides an in-depth analysis of each card in The Buddha Tarot, explaining its symbolism and how it relates to both traditional tarot meanings and Buddhist principles.

The major arcana cards are reimagined to reflect stages in the Buddha's path to enlightenment, while the minor arcana suits are aligned with Buddhist concepts such as mandalas and the "Jinas" (archetypal Buddhas representing spiritual qualities). The book also includes instructions for meditative practices and spreads, such as a mandala layout for spiritual reflection.

Overall, this guide serves as a bridge between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, offering rich insights for tarot enthusiasts, Buddhists, or anyone interested in exploring the intersection of these philosophies