The Astrological Tarot by Georges Muchery (illustrated by Henri Armengol) is not a typical tarot deck. Created in Paris in 1927, it is a symbolic astrological divination system rather than a 78‑card tarot. Its purpose is to describe the cosmic forces, astrological influences, and cycles affecting a situation or question.
The accompanying book provides detailed meanings for each card, explaining how to interpret them in relation to astrology. Understanding the deck’s structure and astrological language is the key to using it effectively.
What Makes The Astrological Tarot Different
Unlike Rider‑Waite or Thoth tarot, Muchery’s system:
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Contains 48 cards, including zodiac decans and planetary influences
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Uses astrological symbols rather than narrative images
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Shows forces and influences, not literal events or predictions
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Was created as a tool for astrological interpretation and study
Because of this, readings are more interpretive than predictive, focusing on cycles, tendencies, and spiritual lessons rather than yes/no answers.
Step One — Learn the Astrological Language
Each card features symbols showing zodiac signs, decans, planets, or points, which define the energy it represents. Before reading, familiarize yourself with these symbols and their meanings.
Zodiac Reference Table
| Zodiac Sign | Key Energies | Ruling Planet | Element |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aries | Initiative, action, leadership | Mars | Fire |
| Taurus | Stability, material resources, persistence | Venus | Earth |
| Gemini | Communication, duality, adaptability | Mercury | Air |
| Cancer | Emotion, nurturing, protection | Moon | Water |
| Leo | Creativity, self-expression, confidence | Sun | Fire |
| Virgo | Analysis, organization, service | Mercury | Earth |
| Libra | Balance, harmony, relationships | Venus | Air |
| Scorpio | Transformation, intensity, power | Mars/Pluto | Water |
| Sagittarius | Exploration, freedom, philosophy | Jupiter | Fire |
| Capricorn | Discipline, structure, ambition | Saturn | Earth |
| Aquarius | Innovation, vision, individuality | Saturn/Uranus | Air |
| Pisces | Intuition, compassion, imagination | Jupiter/Neptune | Water |
Tip: Learn the zodiac traits and ruling planets first; they form the foundation for interpreting decans and planetary cards.
Planetary Influence Reference
| Planet | Key Influences |
|---|---|
| Mars | Conflict, action, motivation, assertion, courage |
| Venus | Harmony, attraction, cooperation, creativity, relationships |
| Saturn | Responsibility, restriction, delay, discipline, structure |
| Jupiter | Expansion, growth, opportunity, optimism, luck |
| Mercury | Communication, intellect, adaptability, travel, learning |
| Sun | Vitality, confidence, self-expression, clarity, leadership |
| Moon | Emotion, intuition, reflection, nurturing, cycles |
| Uranus | Innovation, sudden change, freedom, originality, unpredictability |
| Neptune | Imagination, dreams, intuition, spirituality, dissolution |
Note: Unlike modern astrological decks, Pluto is not included, reflecting the deck’s original pre-1930s design before Pluto’s discovery.
Tip: When planetary cards appear in a reading, refer to this table to interpret the energy at play.
Step Two — Study the Card Meanings from the Book
Muchery’s book provides layered descriptions for each card. When interpreting a card:
- Identify the astrological sign or point on the card
- Identify the planetary influence if present
- Read the book’s description to understand:
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how the influence behaves
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what conditions it describes
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what patterns it represents
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Always ask: “What energy is influencing this situation?” rather than “What does this card mean?” This approach treats the deck as a map of forces rather than a fortune-telling tool.
Step Three — Start With Simple Spreads
Large layouts can feel overwhelming due to the deck’s layered symbolism. Beginners should begin with a three-card spread:
- Current Influence — the dominant astrological force at play
- Challenge or Lesson — obstacles or tension
- Direction or Potential — how the situation is likely to evolve
Interpret each card on three levels:
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Tarot symbolism
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Astrological correspondence (sign, planet, decan)
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Personal meaning in context of the question
Step Four — Read the Cards as Influences
The Astrological Tarot does not give fixed outcomes. Instead, it shows forces, cycles, and tendencies. Use the zodiac and planetary tables above to guide your interpretation. This approach is especially useful for:
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Personal growth
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Life direction
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Emotional patterns
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Timing and cycles
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Spiritual development
It is less suited for simple yes/no or daily pull readings.
Step Five — Use the Deck as a Study Tool
Muchery designed the deck to explore cosmic patterns and spiritual development. Beyond divination, it can reveal:
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Cycles of change
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Inner transformation
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Repeating life patterns
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Spiritual lessons
Advanced readers may align cards with astrological charts, but beginners can focus on the spreads described in the book.
Step Six — Practice and Record Your Readings
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Shuffle and lay out cards intentionally
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Consult the book for each card’s full description
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Keep a journal to track patterns and influences
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Compare outcomes to see how energies manifest
This practice strengthens your intuition and builds familiarity with the deck’s symbolic language.
Why This Deck Feels Unique
Unlike modern decks that rely primarily on imagery and intuition, the Astrological Tarot is structured and symbolic, highlighting energies, cycles, and lessons rather than direct events. For readers who enjoy astrology and layered symbolism, it provides a depth of insight unmatched by conventional tarot decks.
To use The Astrological Tarot Deck effectively:
- Understand that the deck is astrology-based, not standard tarot
- Learn zodiac signs, decans, planets, and elements
- Study card meanings from Muchery’s book
- Start with small, simple spreads
- Read cards as influences and conditions, not predictions
- Practice intentionally and keep a reading journal
- Incorporate deeper astrology as familiarity grows
With patience, this deck reveals the forces shaping your life, the cycles you’re in, and the lessons available, making it a powerful tool for study and divination.


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