Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

The Oracle of Forgotten Witches, by Balázs Tátrai with illustrations by Lilla Bölecz

The Oracle of Forgotten Witches, by Balázs Tátrai with illustrations by Lilla Bölecz
Watkins Publishings, 978-1-83681-042-1, 192 pages, 60 cards, August 2026

There is something deeply compelling about potent magic of the past. The Oracle of Forgotten Witches by Balázs Tátrai and illustrated by Lilla Bölecz, invites readers to encounter tales of mystery, exploring the enduring relationship between witchcraft, folklore, and magical power.

This deck expands upon the content introduced in Tátrai and Bölecz’s earlier collaboration, The Book of Forgotten Witches: Dark and Twisted Folklore Stories from Around the World. While familiarity with the original book can enrich the oracle experience, the deck offers its own system for exploring these figures through personal reflection and creative storytelling, so you can definitely work with it individually.

The structure of the deck is quite interesting. The 60 cards in the deck are divided into 10 suits: Curse-bringers, Shape-shifters, Survivors, Avengers, Mesmerizers, Well-wishers, Alchemists, Revenants, Nature Witches, and Fate-turners.

The guidebook details the general energy of each type, noting how Mezmerizers “See through every trick, even those you use to deceive yourself.”1, while Nature Witches help readers to “Find your pace in the intricate web of nature and society.”2.

Then within each of the 10 suits, there are 6 cards: witch, familiar, spirit, deity, magical item, and magical place. You can tell which the card is from by looking at the symbol on it. The cards also feature a keyword too, which is helpful for learning to read with the cards.

And in case the variety of suit types didn’t tip you off, this deck has a range of energies! This makes for some elaborate readings that don’t shy away from darker elements. The Oracle of Forgotten Witches makes room for vengeance, curses, death, and other unsettling aspects of folklore. This provides an opportunity to engage with the complexity of magical traditions rather than reducing the witch archetype to a purely comforting or nurturing presence, which OFTEN happens with oracle decks, so I really enjoy working with it for this reason.

Bölecz’s illustrations beautifully complement this darker atmosphere. Her artwork brings to life through visual language enchantment, mystery, and hidden realms. The cards feature richly atmospheric colors, intricate details, and a distinctly gothic vibe. The black borders and black-edged cards further contribute to the deck’s shadow element, inviting all energy into the oracle conversation, not just the bright and shiny aspects of witchcraft.

It’s very cool how the imagery extends beyond portraits of witches to include mythical creatures, spiritual beings, enchanted objects, and fantastical landscapes. This diversity encourages readers to consider how the setting, symbolism, and accompanying keyword of each card contribute to its message. Additionally, the illustrations serve not only as visual representations of the stories they’re related to but also as imaginative starting points for personal interpretation or storyweaving (more on this to come).

As for the guidebook, Tátrai offers an amazing balance of esoteric knowledge and spiritual guidance. Each entry shares the category, key words, an overview of the historical relationship the card has to witchcraft (whether it’s how an item is used or the mythological origins of a tale), a whisper from the card, which is as though is it speaking directly to the reader, and finally reflection questions. While I haven’t read The Book of Forgotten Witches, it seems like Tátrai has done a great job distilling and condensing vital information and transforming it into oracular guidance.

Tátrai also includes various spreads readers can do with the deck. In addition to the standard one-card and three-card readings, he also shares Hecate Spread and Magnum Opus Spread. The latter is very interesting because it uses a card from each suit to lead readers through the alchemical process of transformation. The final spreads are focused on storyweaving, both individually and collectively. 

And I think the storytelling element is my favorite aspect of this deck! The Storyweaving Spread that encourages readers to create their own folktales using the characters, objects, and places depicted on the cards. By examining the narratives that emerge, readers can explore the symbolic connections between the stories they create and their personal experiences.  Through its combination of storytelling and symbolism, it offers an opportunity to reflect on what these elements of witchcraft might reveal about your own relationship with intuition, autonomy, and the unseen. There’s even a spread for collective storyweaving, which I look forward to doing with friends!

When using the cards for storyweaving, you get the chance to imagine yourself on a journey, encountering the cards and developing your own sense of how they fit together. Is Spinning Wheel an opportunity for rebirth or something to avoid pricking your finger on? Is your encounter with Deer Woman meant to help you embrace your wild nature or lead you down a path of seduction? While you can go by the guidebook definitions, it’s also an opportunity to expand your senses and practice discernment: what do you feel about the energies and the tale being told?

Here’s an example of a storyweaving I recently did:

My first encounter was with Sirona, a well-wishing deity, who offers vitality by connecting to the life source, encouraging natural medicines like laughter and water to boost one’s overall health and well-being. I felt immediately rejuvenated when I pulled this card, especially because I had felt a little melancholy and out of sorts. It was a sign that following my intuition to take the magical path was giving me the restoration my soul needs.

Believe it or not, the second card I pulled was The Sibyl’s Grotto, also within the suit of well-wishing, though this is a magical place. It felt amazing to venture further into this healing journey to enter such a sacred space, especially since I specifically went to my special spot for solitude (my favorite Barnes and Noble cafe) in order to have some alone time to refresh my energy.

BUT ALAS, here in the grotto, I encounter Strzygon, a vampiric spirit from Polish folklore that indicates too much attachment to material things and people. Alone, I must reflect on these unhealthy attachments draining my energy and rectify them. I am grateful for the extra vitality that Sirona has given me and the healing properties of Sibyl’s Grotto during this process,

Here, Louhi, a Finnish deity filled with wrath, comes to show how I can use my anger constructively to sever these ties. She reminds me that it’s okay to speak up for myself and anger can be a reminder of where my boundaries have been over-stepped. As I release a primal scream, bringing forth all that I’ve held inside, suddenly a magical object appears before me: Grimoire.

The Grimoire is filled with spells from my heritage, reminding me of the special knowledge passed down through time that links me to those who have come before and those who will come after. I am but one link in a long line of ancestry, never alone yet still with my own unique purpose.

With this revelation, I am graced with the presence of a new familiar: Moon Spider. The guidebook reminds me, “We can’t escape all the hardship in our lives by shutting ourselves off from the world completely. Some form of human interaction is vital for our mental wellbeing. To grow as individuals, we need to express ourselves, share ideas and listen to others.”3

This storytelling session showed me that I can regain my vitality by taking time for myself in healing spaces to do the inner work of examining my attachments and where I might need to speak up more, express my true feelings, and address imbalances by acknowledging my anger. I have the resources and spells needed to do this with sovereignty. When I am ready, I can remerge to communicate and connect again.

Overall, The Oracle of Forgotten Witches offers an imaginative exploration of the witch archetype, bringing together the wisdom of folklore, the symbolism of alchemy, and the transformative potential of storytelling. Tátrai’s narrative approach and Bölecz’s atmospheric illustrations create a richly developed magical world that encourages readers to engage with all aspects of witchcraft. For those drawn to the mysterious figures who inhabit the magical margins of history and mythology, this oracle provides an intriguing opportunity to encounter their stories and discover what they might illuminate within our own lives.

I recommend this deck to those interested in mythology, folklore, shadow work, and storytelling. Its layered structure and accompanying stories make it especially suited for those who want to learn more about cultural narratives and historical experiences that have shaped our understanding of the witch. Connecting with figures associated with curses, survival, vengeance, and transformation, alongside healing, connection, and inner wisdom makes for a comprehensive reading.

Witch’s Homestead Oracle, by Hadas Knox and Giada Rose

Witch’s Homestead Oracle, by Hadas Knox and Giada Rose
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468452, 160 pages, 44 cards, October 2026

There is a particular kind of magic that emerges when the ordinary rhythms of home become sacred: tending a garden, preparing food, watching the seasons shift outside the window, preserving what has been harvested, or simply noticing the plants and creatures sharing the land with us. Witch’s Homestead Oracle by Hadas Knox, with illustrations by Giada Rose, builds an entire divinatory world around this expression of witchcraft.

It’s truly beautiful to tap into this essence, but to be honest, I didn’t know what to make of this deck when I first opened the box. I absolutely love Giada Rose’s illustration style, which is undoubtedly what drew me to the deck. But despite enjoying household magic, I was getting a bit paranoid it had a “trad wife” essence glamourizing the domestic routines instead of liberating the spirit. But the more I worked with this deck, I discovered what this deck really is: a portal to a world where the witch’s spirit is brilliantly alive and thriving in home and hearth, keenly attuned to the rhythm of life, whether it be seasonal tasks, rest vs activity, or creation vs. destruction.

“The homestead is more than sun-dappled routines and kitchen witchery. There is a second life there – quieter, more urgent. After the bread is baked and the jars are sealed, the witch returns to herself. A candle flickers. A journal opens. She writes by the fire, aching and alive. The same hands that gather eggs also ink spells into the margins of well-loved books. This is where outer and inner lives meet, intertwining like ivy across old stone.”2

Allowing myself to slip into this magical landscape, I opened up to embrace the wisdom of this “ever-shifting spirit of time, memory, and season”4 presented in Witch’s Homestead Oracle, which feels like a living magical landscape. This deck feels very fantastical with its mysterious farm, blending cottagecore imagery with themes of nature, domestic life, folklore, and mystery. Yet within the depictions, I still was able to glimpse parts of my own path, living in a small condo in modern day, unfortunately lacking my own Hutch, Livestock, or Secret Staircase.

The Victorian theme also gives the deck an interesting edge, and I feel like I resonated with it more once I understood Knox’s style by looking at her Instagram. First of all, it’s just an incredibly curated profile. She makes the cards’ artwork into very funny and very relatable images, and it was through this way of relating to the cards that I started to feel a connection. Knox is a pretty cool witch, and she’s got her own unique vibe, which is depicted in her eclectic humor and vintage style. Never so much has discovering the creator of the deck given shape to my relationship with it, but to me, this speaks to how imbued it is with her authentic energy.

Indeed, this is not bright, whimsical homesteading, such as my initial worry about the “trad wife” element. Knox’s Instagram describes her as a “haunted house dweller” and that essence, of being attuned to the spirits and secrets within the walls, is more aligned with this deck’s energy. That slight darkness makes the concept considerably more interesting. Suddenly, the farm feels less like an idealized escape into rural life and more like a place that has accumulated memories, stories, work, loss, abundance, and mystery over time.

And Rose does an amazing job bringing this atmosphere to life with her illustrations. Her artwork finds special meeting points between nature, femininity, and witchcraft, with the imagery speaking to the way landscapes and homes can themselves function as oracles. The colors are vivid, arresting, and cozy all at once. The textured, painting quality is reminiscent of illustrations in storybooks, leaving plenty of room for the mind to wander beyond the scene at hand.

For the interior home illustrations, the slightly imperfect lines, shadowy interiors, and vintage furnishings give each scene a nostalgic, lived-in feeling to the scenes on the cards. Meanwhile, the images depicting scenes from outdoors bring to life the enchantment of nature, the beauty in the seasons, and magic of the elements. Together, the indoor and outdoor illustrations create a cohesive visual world in which the witch’s homestead encompasses both the sanctuary of the home and the living landscape surrounding it. I also just adore the purple gilded edges of the deck!

As for the guidebook, Knox has a poetic way of bringing to awareness aspects of the inner world readers can explore. Each entry has two parts: the meaning and the story. The meaning section is not overly divinatory, rather Knox poses questions for the readers for further exploration and contemplation.

Knox weaves together the special essence of the image on the card, ranging from the Hayloft to Tea Kettle, and conveys their meaning in a comforting, gentle way. This is a great deck for sinking deeper into the present energies at hand, noticing what is bubbling up to the surface for acknowledgement or swirling around you in need of tending. One of my favorites, Nightgown, reads:

“To don the nightgown is to slip into the realm of rest, dreams, and the unique power of liminal time. Sleep is not blankness, but a veil thinned by darkness, where healing stirs and messages rise. What memories, emotions, or energies might your garments hold?”5

Mmm, so potent! Then the story aspect of the guidebook ignites the imagination, aiding readers in putting themselves into the scene. Written in second-person (“you”), Knox brings to life the scents, feelings, and inner knowing that comes through the encounter depicted on the card. Here’s a sample from another card I love, Quill & Ink:

“Quill scratches and worn wood notwithstanding, your writing desk is sacred. You’ve placed it beneath the dormer window, which always catches a cool breeze and the most golden morning light. An inkwell rests atop your desk, beckoning like a dark mirror. Pages are everywhere: half-written sheets beside the inkwell, discarded drafts curled on the floor, some crumpled in frustration. Your cat has made a bed of them, purring softly among stacks of unshelved books.”6

Transport me, please! Because my reality is a hyper toddler shouting and jumping on the bed, while my happy baby babbles and tries to get up to join her brother. For a few delicious minutes, this deck brings me into a different world, allowing a special part of me a reprieve as it sinks into the delicately crafted homestead of Knox and Rose. I love all the realms this deck moves me through.

Overall, Witch’s Homestead Oracle offers a vision of witchcraft rooted in a solitary connection to the rhythms of nature and features of the home life: the feeling of the sunlight or moonlight shining in the window, the plants that need picking or cooking or canning, the festivities or responsibilities of daily life. Most of all, this deck is a way to reconnect with the inner witch within who tracks these patterns, even if subliminally, in the modern world, and needs a moment to pause, breathe, and embrace these liminal places created for our spirits to rest, contemplate, and rise again from.

For witches who find magic in gardens, kitchens, creaky stairs,  jars on pantry shelves, herbs drying from rafters, and the quiet repetition of everyday rituals, this is your type of oracle deck! And even if you don’t typically consider yourself a homey witch, such as I initially felt, the magic of immersion is powerful with this deck. You might not initially recognize yourself in its imagery, but I feel confident that you’ll discover new aspects of yourself in the unfolding scenes. I will continue to return to this deck for daily card pulls, journaling, altar work, and sabbat celebrations.

The Divine Pendulum Oracle, by Joan Rose Staffen

The Divine Pendulum Oracle: Play, Learn, Transform, and Live Authentically, by Joan Rose Staffen
Independently Published, 979-8307160886, 156 pages, 42 cards, July 2026

For those who have ever been intrigued by pendulum divination but felt uncertain about how to move beyond basic yes-or-no questions, Joan Rose Staffen’s The Divine Pendulum Oracle: Play, Learn, Transform, and Live Authentically offers a welcoming way to deepen the practice. Blending pendulum work, intuitive development, spirituality, creativity, and colorful artwork, Staffen creates a system designed not simply to provide answers, but to encourage readers to develop a more active relationship with their own inner guidance.

This oracle is composed of 42 Intuitive Charts cards created to be used alongside a pendulum. Rather than limiting pendulum work to binary yes-or-no responses, these charts allow practitioners to explore a broader range of possibilities and questions relating to healing, creativity, work, spiritual development, and everyday life. Staffen presents the pendulum as a tool for accessing intuition and higher consciousness, with the charts acting as a framework that helps give that intuitive exploration direction and structure.

The charts are very specific too, which is GREAT for uncovering insights. Staffen has really provided a variety of ways to enhance your divinations with the pendulum, which can feel surprisingly open-ended if you’re not sure how to guide it. Learning what to ask is often just as important as learning how to read the movement itself. Staffen’s chart-based approach helps bridge that gap. Instead of staring at a swinging pendulum and wondering where to go next, readers are given a method that encourages curiosity, experimentation, and increasingly nuanced questions.

Here’s a list of some of the pendulum charts she provides with a few items on the chart (there’s many more options for each one covered below):

∙ Support Team (Family, God, Goddess, Psychic, Sponsor, Teacher, Therapist)

∙ Self Care (Dance, Books, Be Still, Yoga, Support Group, Music, Personal Inventory)

∙ Enhancing Psychic Skills (Mentor, Journal, Gratitude List, Pray, Record Dreams & Analyze, Altar)

∙ Psychic Identity (Clairaudient, Diviner/Dowser, Mystic, Witch)

∙ Flower Essences (Borage, Circus, Tomato, Violet, Olive)

∙ Creative Blocks (Fear of Failure, Past Life Trauma, Lack of Time, Addiction)

∙ Vitamins and Minerals (Healthy Goods, Vitamin C, Calcicum, Iron)

There’s just SO MANY detailed charts that my readings have gotten incredibly accurate with the pendulum.

Another thing I absolutely love is the design of these cards. Staffen’s colorful paintings are integrated throughout the deck, featured on the back of each card, giving the system a lively, expressive energy that distinguishes it from more technical books on dowsing. She has described painting as deeply connected to her own spiritual and creative process, and that relationship between art and intuition becomes part of the philosophy behind the oracle itself. I love how you can flip the card and discover yet another way to connect with the card by gazing at her gorgeous abstract art and tuning into the energy it evokes.

Her accompanying guidebook introduces each card’s topic and painting. Staffen also shares some wisdom related to the topic, along with the opportunity and challenge present, action to take, and questions to ask, if you’re not sure how to approach the chart.

The guidebook also shares information about using the pendulum in general, such as where to purchase one or how to make it yourself, centering yourself, and spiritually preparing for the experience. If someone is not sure which chart to begin with, there’s even a list that one can use the pendulum on to decide. And the real bonus is that ALL the charts featured in the beautiful cards are also included in the book too!

While many of the charts cover deeply personal and spiritual topics, there’s a sense of play and creativity to the deck that makes it very inviting. Spiritual development can sometimes become overly serious, with practitioners worrying about whether they are receiving the “correct” message or interpreting a sign properly. Staffen instead encourages experimentation. Learning the pendulum becomes an ongoing conversation that can evolve as the practitioner becomes more comfortable with asking questions, recognizing patterns, and trusting their responses.

I also like how this method encourages strengthening your connection to inner guidance rather than simply predicting outcomes. There’s a lot of room for people to personalize the guidance they receive and take actionable steps in their life to make use of what comes through in the reading. Staffen encourages readers to use the practice for daily guidance, self-reflection, creativity, spiritual connection, and helping themselves recognize potential solutions to challenges instead of following it with deterministic information.

Staffen’s focus on higher consciousness, placing the practice within a spiritual worldview rather than presenting the pendulum merely as a decision-making device, also brings a special energy during the readings. This emphasis reflects her larger body of work. An author, artist, psychic healer, and intuitive coach, she has spent decades exploring practices that include pendulum divination, meditation, energy work, and other spiritual healing modalities. The Divine Pendulum Oracle feels like a culmination of those interests, bringing together divination and creativity in a particularly visual form.

For those who often turn to tarot or oracle cards, this method of hands-on divination is a great way to switch up your style. The targeted answers in the chart are A TON of fun to do with a friend or partner. My husband and I have enjoyed using the charts when we need clarity, guidance, or to just open up conversation. We loved discovering our psychic identities! And we also enjoy the Love and Romance Chart, which has things like Bonding, Trust, Tantric Practice, Let Go, Risk, and Open Your Heart on it to provide some insight on what we might want to explore next in our relationship. The charts are definitely a wonderful conversation starter! I could see them also being amazing for group bonding exercises too.

One of my favorite charts in the deck is Prosperity Problem Solving. The top of this chart lists obstacles (Anger, Unworthiness, Inertia, Lack of Passion about Life), while the bottom lists solutions (Positive Attitude, Meditation, Books, Forgiveness, Affirmations). I think this dual-sided chart is  a great way to hone in on what the true issue is when it comes to our abundance.

Overall, The Divine Pendulum Oracle aids readers in cultivating an ongoing practice of asking, listening, experimenting, and discovering. The pendulum becomes a focal point for a larger process of self-inquiry that invites the practitioner to consider what their intuition may already be trying to communicate. Staffen reminds us of the value in approaching divination with openness and curiosity, noting it’s not only about seeking answers about what happens next but also a way to learn about ourselves.

Experienced diviners may find themselves particularly interested in the chart system as another method to incorporate into an existing practice, while newcomers benefit from having a concrete structure with which to begin. There is also plenty here for readers interested in oracle cards, intuitive coaching, creativity, or energetic practices who may not previously have thought of the pendulum as their preferred divination tool to explore.

Staffen has created a truly wonderful deck filled with thoughtful consideration of the charts and imbued with a vibrant spirit through her artwork. This is hands-down the best pendulum deck I’ve ever worked with!

The Chinese Five Elements Oracle, by Vicki Iskandar

The Chinese Five Elements Oracle: A 60-Card Deck and Guidebook, by Vicki Iskandar and illustrated by Candice Soon
Hay House LLC, 140197063X, 192 pages, 60 cards, October 2023

In Taoism, the five elements of Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water are the building blocks of the universe. The elements present at birth shape our personalities and desires. Through Chinese astrology, we can attune to our own personal elemental compositions, promoting deeper self-awareness, growth, and healing. 

The Chinese Five Elements Oracle combines the five elements with the twelve zodiac animals to create all sixty possible pairings. This deck was created by Indonesian-born Chinese Feng Shui consultant and astrologer Vicki Iskandar, and illustrated by Candice Soon, a self-taught artist from Singapore. It consists of sixty cards and a 185-page guidebook, representing Iskandar’s unique vision of the sixty Pillars, brought to life through Soon’s gorgeous illustrations. In her personal practice, Iskandar blends Chinese and Western astrology. Since 2012, she has shared daily astrological guidance on Twitter under the handle @5elementsoracle.

This deck is beginner-friendly, with the accompanying guidebook offering a comprehensive introduction to Chinese metaphysics, Taoism, and astrology. According to Chinese mythology, the ordering of the animal signs was established based on the outcome of a Great Race. The Rat hitched a ride on the Ox and leaped across the finish line first, winning the race and being awarded the position of first sign in the Chinese zodiac by the Jade Emperor, the Taoist ruler of the Universe. 

The sixty cards, or Pillars, are divided into six cycles of ten Heavenly Stems, and the opening cycle explores the themes of Wisdom and Communication, beginning with the Wood Rat, the deck’s inaugural card and leader of the first cycle. I was born in the year of the Wood Rat, so I was thrilled to discover it was the first card in the deck when I opened the box. 

Iskandar explains that the sixty cards are organized into a cyclical pattern known as the “great sexagenary cycle.”7 Each ten-card cycle begins with Yang Wood and concludes with Yin Water, while the twelve animal signs follow their traditional order: “The Rat, the Ox, the Tiger, the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Snake, the Horse, the Sheep (also called Goat or Ram), the Monkey, the Bird (or Rooster), the Dog, and the Pig (or Boar).”8

Iskandar substitutes the more familiar Rooster with the Bird, often depicted as a phoenix, due to the sign’s Yin Metal elemental energy. The Rooster, with its masculine connotations, doesn’t accurately reflect the sign’s feminine nature. Iskandar emphasizes the importance of understanding the elemental composition of each animal sign rather than relying on superficial characteristics. 

Intrigued by the potential insights offered by this oracle, I immediately began exploring the Pillars associated with my family, friends, and pets. I wanted to familiarize myself with the individual qualities of each sign before delving into divinatory use of the cards. 

2024 is the year of the Wood Dragon, and I examined the corresponding card in this deck to contemplate how this energy might be influencing the collective. The wise Wood Dragon is the first of the “Power and Authority Cards,” and according to Iskandar, it “represents tremendous strength and faith in a positive outcome, even in the midst of adversity.”9 This card advises us to lead authentic lives, act with integrity, and use our personal power and influence for the greater good. 

Feeling prepared to delve into the oracle’s divinatory potential, I turned my attention to the suggested practices outlined in the guidebook. Iskandar emphasizes the importance of a clear and receptive mindset, recommending a brief meditation before each reading. She also advises against using the cards during the energetically potent periods of the New and Full Moons, which are either too Yin or too Yang, as well as during stormy weather. 

Iskandar offers a variety of oracle spreads, and I decided to start with the one card draw, which is called “One with the Tao.”10

“Taoism is about simplicity, and the simplest way to ask for guidance is to draw a card from the deck, especially when you’re seeking a quick answer, an insight into a specific matter, or an affirmation from your guides,” Iskandar says. “If a card jumps out before you pick one, it’s the Tao picking a card for you.”11

Turning the cards facedown to shuffle, I was dazzled by the beauty of the card backs, which depict the yin-yang dalliance of a phoenix and a dragon, the ultimate power couple in Feng Shui. They swirl in a galaxy of color, before a backdrop of stars. The phoenix has a rainbow of tail feathers with peacock eyes, while the dragon coils around her with sea green hair and a blur of pastel scales. 

I didn’t have a specific question in mind, so I just asked for general guidance from the Tao. While I was shuffling, I saw a dragon’s head appear before my mind’s eye, signifying Yang energy. After I spent some time thoroughly shuffling the deck, the Tao flipped over a card for me: “Wood Horse: Live and Love Joyfully,” which depicts a horse galloping through a forest with sunlight streaming down through the canopy of branches and leaves.

This energetic card carries the elemental energy of Yang Wood, symbolizing expansion and growth, and the Horse is a harbinger of “unbridled joy.”

“Heaven is there to guide you to a bright future, while Earth stands ready to bring you opportunities,”12 Iskandar says.

What a beautiful and reassuring message!

This versatile deck is a wonderful tool for exploring Chinese astrology, delving into natal charts, and seeking oracular wisdom from the Tao. For those eager to dive deeper into Chinese astrology beyond their year Pillar, Iskandar’s website offers a BaZi chart calculator to reveal your Four Pillars of Destiny and more. There’s also Jade Almanac, which shares tons of free information about one’s BaZi chart.

The Chinese Five Elements Oracle is a treasure trove of wisdom and beauty. This is the first deck of its kind that I’ve seen, and it will be a valuable tool for both beginners and experienced practitioners of Chinese astrology.

The Four Selves Oracle, by Toni Savory and Carrie Paris

The Four Selves Oracle: Pathways to Integrating Shadow and Light, by Toni Savory with illustrations by Carrie Paris
Weiser Books, 1578638933, 160 pages, 36 cards, June 2026

The Four Selves Oracle: Pathways to Integrating Shadow and Light is one of the more psychologically nuanced oracle decks to recently be published. Created by Toni Savory and illustrated by Carrie Paris, the deck is built around the idea that each person contains four interconnected aspects: the Physical Self, Conscious Self, Subconscious Self, and Superconscious Self. Rather than focusing solely on affirmation or spiritual uplift, the deck explores the dynamic relationship between shadow and light, helping readers identify emotional triggers, unconscious patterns, and pathways toward integration and wholeness.

“Quite simply The Four Selves Oracle is a gateway for you to understand yourself in ways that allow you to take action and do the work to become and embrace the true divine source within you and around you.”8

The structure of this deck is unique; it definitely took me a little time to get used to working with it. First, there’s two significator cards: Self (13) and Shadow Self (15). Of the 36 cards in this deck, 16 of them are light cards (belonging with the Self significator), 16 are shadow cards (belonging with the Shadow Self significator). The light and shadow cards are all paired, so each light one will have a corresponding shadow card and vice versa. Then the other four cards are neutral ones, intended to balance the reading.

Now, before the Savory even gets into the layouts, readers learn the poisonings in the deck. Depending on the layout, the card could be in a light or shadow column and conscious, physical, and subconscious position layer. There’s a nice big color-coded visual of this in the guidebook, which helps with understanding the placements.

It seems like there’s a lot of moving parts, but once you begin working with the deck regularly, things become more intuitive. The intention behind it all is for the cards to support one another, bringing a holistic approach to the deck, as each card is reflected within ourselves. I find this approach so novel since even if there’s a common theme to the deck, most oracle readings focus on the individuality of each card. The layer in this deck makes for a much richer reading than any deck I’ve worked with before.

The guidebook description of each card provides the card type, keywords, mantra, core meaning, imagery, and guidance for it in the position of conscious, subconscious, and physical. Also listed is the card’s counterpart and insight on how the cards reflect each other. To become more familiar with the deck, I found it very helpful to go through the guidebook and read the corresponding pairs, reflecting on the wisdom and letting the information coalesce a bit prior to even doing readings. This approach made me feel more comfortable with the cards once I did start doing spreads.

Interestingly enough, the layouts are not even presented in the guidebook until the second part, following all the oracle meanings. The first suggestion in this section is to do a pull of either one, two, or three cards and simply work with the mantras. I found this VERY useful for familiarizing myself with the deck and every time got uncanny guidance that was reflective of what was going on for me internally at the time.

The other spreads continue to build on the different facets of personal exploration the deck can be used for, from releasing triggers to checking in with the four selves, and culminates with a 36-card grand tableau. I have yet to do this full deck spread because I am saving it for when I really want some big guidance, but I love having it available to me with this deck.

Visually, the deck is colorful with plenty of symbolic richness.. The imagery is dreamlike, archetypal, and slightly surreal, featuring portals, mirrors, moons, gardens, vortexes, and liminal landscapes. Rather than depicting literal scenes, the artwork functions as a symbolic language that invites contemplation and intuitive interpretation. The aesthetic feels mystical without becoming overly ornate, giving the reader plenty of imagery to gaze at while not getting too overwhelmed with small details. The imagery does a good job of providing visual structure for the complexity of the deck rather than be a source for predictive insights.

And this brings me to my final thoughts on the deck. Many of us go to oracle decks for predictive guidance or affirmation-focused messages, so this focus on introspective reflection and shadow work might not initially be a comfortable realm for our readings. The deck certainly requires more time learning than the majority of oracle decks.

But this is what makes The Four Selves Oracle so exceptional. Instead of asking for universal guidance from the oracle deck, this card brings to light the parts of ourselves that hold wisdom. Bridging both spirituality and psychology, the guidance is both meaningful and practical. It’s a comprehensive tool for those looking to better understand the multi-faceted self and delve into the patterns, triggers, and deeper emotions that are best explored through tools such as this deck. Savory acknowledges that growth requires confronting difficult emotions and unconscious habits and the structure she’s created with this deck is excellent.

I highly recommend this deck to those who enjoy shadow work, depth psychology, journaling, or therapeutic spiritual practices. While the deck does take some time to get used to working with, which makes me want to recommend it more towards advanced readers, I do think there’s more than enough information to begin working with it at any level. Allow time for your connection with the deck to grow is my advice. I was a bit overwhelmed at first, but slowly, as I took the time to learn the structure of the deck, the readings became more clear and potent. This has now become one of my favorite decks to turn to for when I’m doing inner work.

The John Dee Oracle, by John Matthews and Will Kinghan

The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, by John Matthews with illustrations by Will Kinghan
REDFeather, 0764369768, 112 pages, 29 cards, September 2025

John Matthews’ The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, illustrated by Will Kinghan, is a fascinating and highly specialized divinatory work that draws readers into the intellectual, magical, and symbolic  universe of one of the Renaissance’s most enigmatic figures. John Dee—astrologer,  mathematician, alchemist, historian, advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, and architect of a vast  esoteric system—has long occupied a singular place in Western occult history. This oracle seeks to translate that world into a modern tool for contemplation and guidance, and in many respects, it succeeds admirably. 

From the outset, this set distinguishes itself through atmosphere and scholarship. The  presentation is elegant and historically evocative with a handsome box design that reflects the Renaissance palette of parchment, crimson, and gold. Included with the deck is a folded reading diagram based on the four watchtowers, a visual element that immediately signals that this is not a casual or generic oracle, but one grounded in a very specific magical worldview. The accompanying guidebook further reinforces this impression, offering not only card meanings but substantial historical and symbolic context. 

The cards themselves are beautifully produced. Each image is framed by the Enochian alphabet, instantly establishing the deck’s connection to Dee’s angelic and ceremonial  system. At the center of each card is a richly detailed illustration rendered in a woodcut inspired style that feels entirely appropriate to the period being invoked. The artwork by  Will Kinghan captures the texture of Renaissance engraving and manuscript illustration while remaining clear and readable for modern users. There is a gravity to these images— an atmosphere of libraries, observatories, hidden chambers, royal courts, and sacred  diagrams.

One of the deck’s greatest strengths is the density of symbolism embedded in its design. Planetary magic, alchemical process, sacred hierarchy, and esoteric correspondences are  woven throughout the imagery and structure of the cards. Readers with a background in  ceremonial magic, astrology, Renaissance occult philosophy, or Western esotericism will  find layer upon layer to appreciate. This is not symbolism added for decoration; it is integral to the architecture of the oracle itself.

Matthews also deserves praise for the scholarly dimension of the guidebook. His historical  treatment of John Dee and the figures surrounding him adds depth and humanity to what  could otherwise remain abstract. The presence of Queen Elizabeth I—Gloriana within the  deck’s symbolic language—along with other notable historical personalities, gives the  oracle a lived historical texture. Rather than presenting Dee as a mythic stereotype, the  book situates him within the political, intellectual, and spiritual currents of his time. 

Especially noteworthy is the inclusion of Dee’s original Enochian Calls in a new translation  by Matthews. This alone gives the set value beyond divination. Readers interested in  primary-source inspired esotericism, textual history, or ceremonial tradition will find this material deeply engaging. Matthews has long been respected for his work with mythic and magical source texts, and that experience is evident here. 

Where this oracle may divide readers is in its practical accessibility. Unlike many modern oracle decks that encourage broad intuitive use through multiple layouts and flexible daily draws, The John Dee Oracle is more precise and structured in its application. Its method of consultation is rooted in the logic of Dee’s own system, where order, placement, hierarchy, and timing matter. Contextually, this makes complete sense. Dee’s world was  not one of casual inspiration cards, but of disciplined inquiry into cosmic law and divine intelligence. 

However, for the average everyday user seeking a quick, fluid, or emotionally oriented oracle experience, the deck may feel more formal and less immediately adaptable. Its use is better compared to consulting a specialized instrument than pulling a daily affirmation card. This is a deck one reaches for with intention during significant questions, crossroads, periods of study, or moments requiring careful reflection. In that sense, it  mirrors how Queen Elizabeth herself might have sought Dee’s counsel: not constantly, but  strategically. 

That limitation, however, is also part of the deck’s integrity. It does not dilute its source  material in order to become universally marketable. Instead, it remains true to the spirit of Renaissance magic: exacting, symbolic, hierarchical, and profound. Readers willing to  meet it on those terms will be richly rewarded. 

Overall, The John Dee Oracle is an impressive achievement. It is beautiful, intellectually  serious, historically rich, and spiritually distinctive. While it may not become an everyday  deck for all readers, it stands as an exceptional collector’s piece and a deeply rewarding oracle for those drawn to alchemy, astrology, ceremonial magic, and the hidden traditions  of the Renaissance. For students of John Dee and lovers of Western esotericism, it is not merely recommended, it is indispensable.

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208136, 144 pages, 44 cards, May 2026

Hedgewitchery is a nature-based magical practice centered on cultivating a deep relationship with the land, the seasons, and the liminal spaces between the ordinary and the mystical. Rooted in folk traditions, it encourages practitioners to develop intuition, mindfulness, and a strong connection to the natural world through observation, herbal wisdom, divination, and everyday acts of magic. Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle celebrates this craft, sharing wisdom and beauty in the cards.

Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is a 44-card oracle deck centered on magical herbs, folklore, and the hedgewitch tradition. Raised close to the Earth, Forsyth shares her knowledge about herbal magic, plant spirits, and folk witchcraft. Her skills as a storyteller ground the herbs in a wider context, inviting readers to truly develop an allyship with them.

The deck itself is absolutely gorgeous. The cards have a feeling of naturalist botanical art, where the plants are depicted with the accuracy and detail of a vintage field guide or herbal compendium. Every leaf, flower, and stem appears carefully observed rather than stylized, showcasing its natural vitality and essence.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to the cards, as they’re all natural with no ornate symbols or extravagant patterns. The magic in the cards comes from the wildlife featured, giving the deck an animistic feeling. Meanwhile, the gentle energy of the cards still lends a bit of whimsy while remaining educational, contemplative, and rooted in traditional plant lore. The vivid colors and engaging detail make for an attractive addition to an altar space.

The depiction of animals or insects in nearly all the cards evoke the old belief that plants, animals, and spirits exist in relationship with one another. Plus, the animals are symbolic, adding to the layers of meaning for each card, such as an owl on the card Apple representing wisdom and the lady bug in the card Verbena for blessings. This is definitely a great deck for bird lovers, as there’s many cards with them!

As for the guidebook, Forsyth shares guidance on how to use the cards and provides a few spread options. The cards are grouped into four categories, which is indicated by the background color of the card’s image. They are as follows:

❁ Pink – Herbs for love, tenderness, strength and tranquility

❁ Yellow – Herbs for friendship, happiness, optimism and vitality

❁ Green – Herbs for fresh beginnings, healing, intuition and transformation

❁ Black – Herbs for banishing, guarding boundaries, mystery and shadow

This mixture of categories makes for a varied deck, offering meaningful insight into different facets of life. Each entry has the name of the herb, its scientific name, and the key word at top. Forsyth provides a one sentence meaning for the card and then a section about the wisdom of the card, which tells the historical use and folklore. The final section is “Spell of the Day” where Forsyth shares a magical way to use the plant, often including an incantation.

Most of the spells are easy to do with things on hand, though some might require a bit of material gathering. For instance, the spell for the card Comfrey suggests taking a bath with comfrey-infused oil and mineral salts, while the dandelion card calls for a yellow candle. What’s nice about the spells though is how Forsyth encourages collecting herbs from the wild. This isn’t something I usually do, but it has spurred me on to take more interest in where these herbs might be found locally, which will obviously differ by region.

And while Forsyth does offer a message for each card, in the style of a traditional oracle deck, I’ve found this deck to be more useful for the spellwork aspect than divination. I also think readers could definitely use the guidebook to enhance their herbalism knowledge without even needing to work directly with the cards. Though, it is so fun to do spreads and see if any themes emerge in regard to the different card categories. Sometimes, I even divide the cards into categories and specifically draw a card from one based on the type of magical support I am seeking.

So far all my readings have felt very aligned. A few days ago, I felt a bit of negative energy in my energy field, so I decided to pull a card. I got Sage, which Forsyth has given the keyword “Purification”13 The meaning for the card reads:

“Every now and again you need to stop and take a moment to reflect on your life and yourself, take stock of what is beneficial to you and let go of anything that may be doing you harm.”14

I resonated with this, and it encouraged me to be proactive in assessing where the negativity was coming from and creating a boundary. The spell Forsyth shares is creating a smudge stick and using it while repeating an incantation. I plan on doing this soon!

Overall, Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is great for readers who enjoy herbal magic, nature-based witchcraft, and working with plant allies. Forsyth’s approach to plants as both a folklorist and hedgewitch brings a unique combination: readers get the practical knowledge along with magical lore. By weaving spiritual practice into daily life, this deck fosters a sense of grounding and belonging, reminding us that magic is not separate from the world around us but woven into the rhythms of the living earth. I love the reverence she holds for the natural world as well as the enchanted well she invites readers to perceive these herbs.

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim and Stephen Denham

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham
Sirius, 1398849863, 128 pages, 44 cards, March 2026

I am a huge proponent of connecting to the body’s wisdom, specifically through touch and movement. This concept is even what I wrote my master’s degree thesis on: the importance of including a kinesthetic approach to education. Yoga has been a steady practice for me to connect with my inner wisdom, but I don’t always have time to do a full series of poses. As soon as I saw the brightly colored Yoga Mudra Oracle by Emma Werthheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham, I was instantly intrigued! What insights might this deck reveal and could I embody it through my body?

The answer is yes, and it has beautiful messages too! This is a hands-on deck, quite literally offering mudra poses as well as meaningful guidance. This deck contains 44 mudra cards and a 128-page guidebook designed to bring ancient yogic hand gestures into contemporary spiritual practice.

While most oracle decks work through symbolism, intuition, and reflection, Yoga Mudra Oracle adds a physical component too with each card and invites readers to form a specific mudra with your hands while contemplating its message. Instead of simply receiving guidance, you’re asked to participate in it through gesture, breath, and awareness, deepening divination through embodiment. Needless to say, I’m obsessed!

For those new to mudras, Wertheim describes them as this:

“Yoga mudras are simple, sacred postures from an ancient yogic tradition. They permit you to redirect, shape and “seal” the flow of pranic energy within the body, which can unite us with cosmic intelligence and help manifest change on a physical and soul level.”14

An example of working with a mudra is at end of a yoga session when you put your hands together to “seal” the practice. I love the idea of intentionally encapsulating the energy within ourselves, creating a connection between mind, body, and spirit.

The artwork in this deck blends hand imagery, bright color fields, spiritual symbolism, and luminous energy depictions. The pair of hands on the cards are outlined in white, making it easy for the reader to copy the same pose. The aesthetic has a feeling of serenity, spaciousness, and energetic alignment. There’s a feeling of “containment” in each mudra, perfectly holding the energy of each gesture in a balanced way that brings the sensation inward for the reader to experience.

In addition to the mudras, there’s often a symbol that adds further intuitive resonance for the reader to gaze at while working with the card. I feel like this deck is perfect for both meditation as well as creating an altar space. It’s as though the dynamic energy of the mudra on each card gently radiates outward, infusing the reader with its energy through visual contemplation. The deck is also easy to hold in one’s palm and shuffles quite easily. I very much enjoy simply holding the deck and feeling its spiritual energy.

Rather than be numbered, at the bottom there is the name of the mudra. It’s up to the reader to find the entry in the guidebook for further oracle insight, but the entries are listed alphabetically, so it’s pretty easy to navigate. There’s also an index at the back if you don’t want to flip through and prefer finding an exact page number. While most of the mudras in the deck are traditional yoga ones, there are a few non-traditional ones that Wertheim intuited; she notes which ones these are so readers are aware when working with the deck.

The guidebook begins with an introduction by Wertheim, where she talks about her interest in mudras and the study she’s put into working with them. She then provides a very interesting introduction to mudras, explaining the vitality of the hands and ancients of this practice. I was fascinated to realize how “Similar to foot reflexology, all areas of the hands are thought to connect to corresponding organs, glands, nerves, and meridians throughout the body.”15. She presents mudras as an accessible way to work with energy, which is perfect for those of us who don’t always have the time for a longer practice.

Wertheim lays a great foundation for beginners in the guidebook too. She explains how to prepare your hands for mudra, how long to hold them, and what to do if one doesn’t resonate or your hand can’t hold the shape. She covers chakras. And there’s even guidance on preparing to work with the deck (cleansing, how to consult the deck, and layout options). All throughout, Wertheim’s tone is gentle and encouraging. While she’s clearly sharing her passion with readers, she also encourages everyone to do what works best for them, pausing to stop and enjoy the experience. I appreciate her dedication to making this deck useable for all, as well as her heartfelt consideration for readers’ experience.

As for the entries in the guidebook, they’re beautifully crafted. The title is in big letters and there’s an image of the card. Beneath is a subtitle, further explaining the card and keywords or symbolisms. It is here that Wetheim notes if the mudra has been intuited too. The opposite page explains the mudra—what it calls you to do or invites into your energy field. There’s also directions for how to do the mudra, which is helpful for people like me who like specific instructions. Finally, Werthiem includes an affirmation. Occasionally, there’s also a quote that reflects the energy of the mudra.

The first card I pulled when working with this deck was Naga Mudra, subtitled Goddess Rising. Instantly, I felt the activation just looking at the card. I had just come from meeting with a long-time spiritual mentor for the first time in person. I had connected with a great group of people and was really feeling my divine feminine leadership; I was still tingling from the experience. Aptly, this card immediately brought awareness to this fire burning within, noting “The energy is rising through your chakras now”.16 Wertheim further writes:

“The symbols used in this card—such as Naga (the snake goddess—represent wisdom, fertility, and creative force. The ancient Egyptians ankh symbol is known as “the key of life”. Fire represnts the pure fire of insight and the awakening of potent energy within you.”17

Not only did it feel aligned to draw this card, but it was so amazing to have the mudra to ground the energy. Holding the mudra channeled this energy throughout my body, infusing my spirit with it and embedding it in my physical form. Instantly, I was hooked on the power of mudras!

While all can enjoy the experience of connecting with their embodied wisdom through mudras, I highly recommend this deck to those who enjoy meditation, yoga, energy practices, or are seeking a unique oracle deck. This deck is a great one for attuning to the energy of the present moment, and I’ve enjoyed pulling a card before creating a ritual space to set the tone and find center. Pulling a card, holding the corresponding mudra, and sitting with the guidance for several minutes turns a reading into a contemplative practice.

Overall, Yoga Mudra Oracle does a wonderful job combining sacred mudra practice, oracle wisdom, and uplifting artwork to create a thoughtful spiritual tool that feels both modern and rooted in ancient traditions at the same time.  The alignment that comes from working with the mudras is sensational. And Werthheim’s inspired wisdom is perfect for a gentle reading, one that encourages you to slow down and enter a contemplative state. This deck isn’t so much for knowing what’s to come but rather honoring what is appearing in the moment. The physical component with the energetic resonance makes for an impactful reading!

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, by Steve Denham

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle: Timeless Guidance from the Ancient World, by Steve Denham
Sirius, 1398858072, 128 pages, 49 cards, January 2026

My favorite books and decks are ones where you can tell the author had a spiritual calling to put forth that work. From the moment I opened The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, I knew this was going to be one of those special decks.​ This 49-card oracle deck by Steve Denham opens a pathway of wisdom or inner awakening and spiritual refinement based on the 7 Hermetic principles detailed in The Kybalion, a text written by the “Three Initiates” in 1908. Denham writes:

“Sifting through this manifesto, which harks back to the esoteric knowledge of ancient Egypt and purports to articulate the energetic laws that govern the universe, nature and human existence, I realized I had become privy to something quite extraordinary.”15

While The Kybalion was written in the 20th century, in the introduction, Denham explains how this Hermetic alchemy was popular during the Hellenistic era (323-331 BCE) during which Hermes Trismegistus contributed much to occult wisdom. Inspired by this Hermetic philosophy, Denham added his own creative touch, developing 7 intuitive messages for each of the 7 principles as well as meaningful artwork, to create this deck.

Visually, each card is laced with meaning. The artwork blends mystical compositions–images of the earth and space that highlight the limitlessness and expansiveness of universal mystery–with digitally layered sacred imagery. There is a symbolic arched gateway featured on every card, serving as a portal to the realms beyond. Denham explains, “the archways are like ‘keyholes’ or ‘doorways’ through which hidden worlds and dimensions become accessible.”17

The name and number of the card is detailed at the bottom. Each principle has its own symbol and color too, allowing readers to distinguish the card type quite easily when working with the deck. Even the back of the card has significance, which Denham describes as a “Master Key”18 symbolized by the crossed keys of Hermetic alchemy.

While the cards themselves are tantalizing and engaging, it was really the guidebook that illuminated the full spectrum of use for this deck. In addition to the details already shared, Denham also teaches readers how to use the deck, likening it to a magic carpet ride through dimensions. He shares spreads and guidance for interpretation as well. My favorite part of Denham’s reading approach is inviting the reader to bring in love to engage with the principles, infusing the deck with this potent energy to be the “eighth” key.

The rest of the guidebook is sorted by principle. At the start of each one, Denham shares an overview of it and how it comes through in The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle. Just like the deck itself, all the pages of each principle are color-coded, making it easy to flip through and find the card message you’re seeking. The entries all feature an image of the card, a description of the card, a one-sentence directive, and questions to reflect upon.

The messages are definitely metaphysical. This is a deck to contemplate a meaningful philosophy and see how the principles can inform your current situation. Compared to other oracle decks, this one invites more cerebral engagement, though gazing at the cards can also lead to a symbolic awakening too.

I think readers who are dedicated to working with this system long-term would reap the most benefit, as it feels like an initiatory deck to me. Yes, there’s an intuitive aspect to working with the cards where you can do a daily draw, but the deck also operates as a unified symbolic worldview to explore over a period of time. There’s many facets and dimensions to it that could honestly take years to explore, particularly if you want to go deep into the alchemical symbolism.

As for me, I apparently am doing some intense energy work relating to the fifth principle: Rhythm. Every single card I have pulled (and I’ve done at least 6 one-card draws) have been Rhythm ones! Specifically, I’ve pulled the card “Change Your Rhythm” multiple times.

This card relates specifically to the “connection between being and breathing”19. I find this really interesting as, embarrassed as I am to admit, I’ve developed a bit of a nervous tick recently from being so stressed. The only way I’ve found to be more conscious of it and ease it away is through pausing to breathe, which I never would have thought to do if I wasn’t pulling this card over and over. For this card, Denham writes:

“To expand what you are seeing and feeling – stop, come to stillness, change your rhythm.”20

The question posed for this card relates to habitual behavior and negative thinking too, further revealing that I need to focus on my breathing to overcome the perpetual loop in my mind, causing me enough distress to have an unconscious tick now, which is popping my jaw by the way! Attuning to the principle Rhythm is a great reminder to let things flow. I can release control, be present, and shift the way I move through my life.

I am looking forward to eventually exploring the other principles more deeply, but for now, I am trusting that working with this one specifically and intentionally will have the most meaningful impact.

Overall, The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle opens new doorways for readers to explore metaphysical realms and discover a map for transformation rooted in a seasoned spiritual framework. Those who are interested in Hermetic philosophy, particularly The Kybalion, benefit from the integrative ways Denham has provided fine-tuned interpretations of the principles to carry messages through this deck that can be practically applied to one’s life. Working with this deck has grounded the symbolism and esoteric wisdom in a new way for me, making it much more engaging and able to be contemplated and connected with.

While the traditional oracle reader can certainly glean meaningful insight from this deck, I recommend it more for those seeking a more structured system to immerse themselves in. The combination of alchemy, symbolic initiation, and contemplative depth overlaps naturally with the kind of integrative spiritual work those who are interested in metaphysical discourse and soulful transformation will gravitate towards. Those who are philosophers at heart will enjoy Denham’s insightful presentation of the 7 Hermetic principles and appreciate the initiatory nature of this deck.

Friendship Oracle, by Helena Elias

Friendship Oracle: Celebrating Connections, by Helena Elias
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468061, 36 cards, 128 pages, May 2026

Friendship Oracle by Helena Elias is a beautifully tender oracle deck that centers something often overlooked in spiritual tools: friendship as a sacred force. This deck brings connection, mutual care, emotional reciprocity, and the quiet magic of growing alongside others to the realm of divination–something new for me even with over ten years of reading experience!

I was immediately drawn into this deck because of the artwork. Elias hand drew each one on digital canvas, and the level of detail is truly impressive. The deck is a nice blend of enchanted femininity, cottagecore mysticism, and emotionally rich whimsical illustration. Flower crowns, natural textures, fairy wings, flowing dresses, and woodland imagery evoke a whimsical energy, honoring the beauty of the natural world.

All the imagery feels soft, nurturing, and deeply heartfelt. I love the warm, glowing color palettes, which lean into luminous golds, rose pinks, forest greens, deep burgundies, and moonlit ambers. Women and nature are one in this deck where flowers, forests, animals, and celestial imagery aren’t just decoration; they mirror the emotional tone of each card.

Many of the people are depicted in a semi-realistic fantasy style, featuring delicate detailing, glowing skin, flowing hair, and expressive faces that capture the emotional expansiveness this deck offers. Many of the cards emphasize a sacred sisterhood relationship filled with emotional intimacy, care, and connection between women across ages and identities, which is just beautiful to see come to life during a reading.

As for the guidebook, Elias provides a great perspective on friendship. For each card, there’s a meaning shared and a sowing intention ritual that offers a nature-inspired way to integrate the energy of the card. For instance, the sowing intention for the card Reach Out reads:

“Seek out flowers, paying attention to any buzzing bees nearby. Take time to exist in the present, and see if watching the bees and their path brings anyone to mind.”20

I thought that was such a great idea for tuning into who might need you to reach out! Similar to this buzzing advice, the whole guidebook feels thoughtful and intentional. There’s a good mixture of self-care mixed into the relationship-tending oracle advice too. As most know, it can be hard to figure out what to do when a friendship hits a bump in the road; sometimes the balm is more time alone, while other times it requires extra attention to heal. This advice in the guidebook covers the range of phases friendships move through, offering meaningful guidance for reflection.

At first, I wasn’t sure what kinds of questions to ask, as I don’t usually do readings about my friendships. Romantic life? Definitely. Career and money? Quite often. Family life? For sure. But my friendships?! Rarely! But then I started to think about my different friendships and get curious about what insight the deck has to share. Each reading so far has been very energetically spot on and informative for me. Here’s some examples:

I recently got back in touch with a woman who was my best friend from the age of 10 through 25–one of closest friendships I’ve ever had in my life. During our mid-twenties, life pulled us apart, placing us on different paths. There was never a fight, just relocations that reoriented our lifestyles: new friendships, new jobs, new relationships. Despite thinking about her regularly, nearly ten years had passed since we talked; with each passing year it seemed harder to bridge the gap. But then when I found out her mom passed away last month, I reached out. We ended up having a great conversation about where we are in life now, opening a doorway to a renewed friendship.

I decided to pull a card about this situation with her, and I got Soulmate! Here’s part of what Elias has written for this card:

“This is a reminder to honour those friendships that make your soul feel at home. You may be entering a time where you need each others’ strength and unconditional support. If your guiding star has been distant, perhaps this is the moment to reach out, to remind them that their light still shines in your sky.”21

This message was so validating that I did the right thing in rekindling our friendship. It highlighted for me just how valuable this rare such a soulful bond with another person is, and that I should embrace it once again.

Another reading I did was about a friend that I have known for decades but I don’t feel a deep connection to recently; our friendship seems based more on convenience than shared passions or interest. The card I got was Seeker. The first sentences of the guidebook entry made my jaw drop:

“There are times in life when our connections do not bear the fruit we anticipated. You may be at a point where you need to look outside your current garden of friends – not seeking to replace but instead to connect with those who match your current life path.”22

This message really resonated with me. I still value, love, and and appreciate this friendship, but it’s also okay for me to expand my circle to find those who feel more aligned.

Overall, Friendship Oracle feels like a refreshing addition to the oracle space. Its heartfelt messages, visually enchanting cards, and spiritual focus on the healing power of human connection make it a one-of-a-kind deck. Elias reminds us that friendship is not something casual, but rather the roots of some of our most sacred bonds that require reflection, honesty, communication, and renewal.

This deck is perfect for journaling with, doing relationship check-ins, or even working with in a community-centered spiritual practice such as a women’s circle. The emotionally nourishing and mystical nature of the deck revives the spirit and brings a clarity to our defining relationships. I really would love to see more decks from Elias!!