The Bee Tarot, created by Kristoffer Hughes with stunning artwork by Nadia Turner, is the second bee-themed deck I have reviewed and interviewed here at The Tarot Hive. It has a very different flavour compared to the Keeper of the Sacred Bee by Kelly Burton. However, I have fallen in love with both of them for different reasons, some of which I discuss in the Video Unboxing video below. By the way, I will most certainly review non-bee-themed decks here too in the future!
Published by Llewellyn in 2024, the Bee Tarot deck offers a unique perspective on the traditional Tarot structure, infusing it with the rich symbolism and wisdom of bees and their hives. The beautifully illustrated, full-colour guidebook is full of information that will delight bee lovers.
Bee Tarot Video Unboxing
Deck Specifications
The Bee Tarot consists of 78 cards, maintaining the standard Tarot structure. The cards measure 70 x 118 mm (approximately 2.75 x 4.75 inches), which is a comfortable and widely accepted size for Tarot cards. This size allows for easy handling and shuffling while providing enough space for the intricate artwork to shine, especially since the cards are borderless.
The card stock is of high quality, with a slightly textured linen finish that enhances the experience. When examined closely, the cards reveal a subtle cross-hatching pattern that allows air to flow between them, facilitating smooth shuffling and preventing sticking. The cards are very comfortable, smooth and tactile to shuffle. I hope to find more decks from Llewellyn and other Tarot Publishers with this quality cardstock in the future.
Artwork and Design
Nadia Turner’s artwork for the Bee Tarot is nothing short of breathtaking. The choice to go borderless creates an immersive visual experience, allowing readers to fully engage with the bee-themed imagery.
The card backs feature an asymmetrical honeycomb pattern with two bees facing each other, separated by a honeycomb cell. The pattern is so subtly different that it won’t matter if you prefer to read with non-reversible cardbacks or not.
Thematic Elements and Card Titles
The Bee Tarot ingeniously incorporates the bee and hive theme throughout the deck, adapting traditional Tarot imagery and concepts to this unique motif. Several Major Arcana cards have been renamed to align with the bee theme:
- The Fool becomes The Keeper
- The High Priestess is now The Melissae
- The Hierophant is The Delphic Bee
- The Lovers is called The Honeymoon
- The Chariot transforms into The Barrow
- Judgement is retitled as Rebirth
In the Minor Arcana, Jars replace the Suit of Cups, a clever nod to honey storage. The other suits remain as Wands, Swords, and Pentacles. The Court Cards are titled King, Queen, Prince, and Princess, with the Pentacles Court depicted as bees while still maintaining appropriate symbology.
Bee Symbolism and Tarot Connection
Kristoffer Hughes masterfully weaves bee symbolism and lore into the Tarot framework. The 285-page guidebook, “Into the Hive,” explores the long-standing association between bees and spiritual practices across various cultures. Hughes draws parallels between the bees’ “waggle dance” communication and Tarot reading, suggesting that both serve as methods to interpret life’s landscape and provide guidance.
This comprehensive companion not only provides card meanings and interpretations but also delves into the magical world of bees, their significance in various cultures, and their role in mythology. Six bee-themed spreads, such as “The Hive and Flower Spread” (a modified Celtic Cross) and “The Waggle Dance” spread, have been included.
The deck incorporates bee-related mythology and symbolism throughout. For example, my favourite card in this deck, the Queen of Pentacles features an image of the Bee Goddess from ancient Rhodes, adding depth to the card’s interpretation. This fusion of bee lore and Tarot tradition creates a rich tapestry of meaning that both honours traditional Tarot interpretations and offers fresh insights for those of us who wish to immerse ourselves in the
Packaging and Presentation
The Bee Tarot comes in a sturdy box set with a fold-back lid and magnetic clasps. The box’s colour scheme is a rich honey brown or deep golden yellow, perfectly complementing the deck’s theme. While the box is larger than some, making it less portable for everyday carry, it provides excellent protection for the cards and guidebook.
Bee Tarot Deck Interview
For this deck interview, we are working with the Tarot Hive Deck Interview Spread.
1. The Deck’s Essence
This deck embodies the energy of balance, generosity, and exchange. Its essence is rooted in the flow of giving and receiving, reminding me that Tarot is a dynamic dialogue. The 6 of Pentacles suggests this deck is both a teacher and a companion, offering wisdom while encouraging me to share my insights with others. It highlights the importance of staying open to learning and contributing, creating a cycle of mutual growth.
2. How It Empowers You
This deck embodies the energy of balance, generosity, and exchange. Its essence is rooted in the flow of giving and receiving, reminding me that Tarot is a dynamic dialogue. The 6 of Pentacles suggests this deck is both a teacher and a companion, offering wisdom while encouraging me to share my insights with others. It highlights the importance of staying open to learning and contributing, creating a cycle of mutual growth.
3. How It Connects You
The World reveals that this deck connects me to a sense of unity and wholeness. It opens doors to greater understanding, not only of myself but also of others, Mother Earth, and the universe as a whole. With this deck, I can tap into the collective consciousness, strengthening relationships and building a sense of interconnectedness. It shows me how my personal journey contributes to a larger narrative.
4. The Magical Manifestor
The Sun brings radiant energy to the manifestation process. This deck encourages me to focus on joy, clarity, and optimism when working towards my desires. It amplifies my ability to attract positive outcomes by aligning me with my inner light. The Bee Tarot reminds me to celebrate my successes and approach challenges with a warm, hopeful perspective.
5. Shadow Work Support
The King of Pentacles provides grounded and practical support for shadow work. This deck helps me address my fears and limitations with patience and stability. It offers a nurturing space to examine the aspects of myself that need healing, encouraging me to build a solid foundation for growth. With this card, the Bee Tarot reminds me to approach shadow work with maturity and responsibility.
6. The Gift of the Bee Goddess
The 7 of Swords reveals the unique wisdom this deck brings to my practice. It teaches me the importance of strategy, discernment, and self-preservation. This deck guides me in navigating life’s complexities with subtlety and intelligence. It encourages me to trust my instincts and remain true to myself, even when faced with challenges. The gift of the Bee Goddess is the power to adapt, innovate, and thrive.
Final Thoughts
The Bee Tarot is a remarkable fusion of traditional Tarot wisdom and the fascinating world of bees. Kristoffer Hughes and Nadia Turner have created a deck that is not only visually stunning but also deeply thoughtful and well-researched. It offers a fresh perspective on Tarot interpretation while maintaining a connection to classic symbolism.
This deck serves multiple purposes – it’s an effective divinatory tool, an educational resource about bees and their significance, and a beautiful art piece. Its unique approach makes it suitable for both experienced Tarot readers looking for a new perspective and Tarot beginners drawn to the bee theme.
The Bee Tarot stands out as a significant contribution to the Tarot landscape, offering a harmonious blend of nature, mythology, and divination. It invites users to explore the wisdom of the hive and apply it to their personal growth and spiritual practice, making it a valuable addition to any Tarot collection.
