Quick Peek: Secrets of the Ancestors Oracle

Why I Love the Secrets of the Ancestors Oracle

The Secrets of the Ancestors Oracle by Abiola Adams is a Tarot-based oracle. Adams wove the traditions and dieties of Africa with the fabric of the Tarot. The purpose is to bring together the energies of the Tarot and the traditions of your roots to help you connect with your blood and spirit inheritance.

Since this is an oracle deck and not a Tarot, there are some differences between the two. All twenty-two Major Arcana are present and labeled the Suit of Ase. There are three extra cards corresponding to the Majors with a special unknown, the Enigma. However, of the Minor Arcana, only the Aces, identified as "Altars" and Courts are represented.

Some Favorite Cards

Mother of Fire corresponds to the Queen of Wands. This card usually represents me in a reading I do for myself. So, I have an affinity for this card as a rule. In the Secrets of the Ancestors, the Mother of Fire is caring for multiple children while sitting on a blazing throne. Her connection to Aries is shown by ram heads on the arms of her throne.

The Griot corresponds to the Sun. In Western Africa, the Griots are traveling bards. I can conceptualize that they bring joy and blessings to the people they visit.

The Conjure Woman is Adams’ answer to the Magician. We can see one link to the Tarot’s Magician in the red (passion) roses and the woman’s white (innocence) gown. I like having the threads of Tarot present in the unique approach of this oracle.

My absolute favorite is BuBu the Fool. Adams replaced the white dog with a black cat, but we still have the idea that the fool has an animal companion who questions his wisdom. Truly, what better animal to question your actions than a cat?

The Basics

Number of Cards: 45

Major Card Titles: Deck Specific

Suits: Water, Air, Fire, Earth

Courts: Root, Creature, Mother, Father

Backs: Rich green, yellow, and gold with bird representations