Quick Specs
- Creator: Jody Boginski Barbessi
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems (2018)
- Cards: 78 tarot cards plus 2 reference cards (80 total)
- Guidebook: 184-page illustrated book with card meanings and angelic messages
- Packaging: Deluxe box with gold foil accents, gilt-edge cards
Angels as Celestial Messengers Through the Tarot
Influence of the Angels Tarot draws on the tradition of angels as intermediaries between the human and the divine. Each of the 22 Major Arcana cards is attributed to a named angel: Michael appears as The Magician, Raphael in The Star, and the Moon card carries Elemiah, the hidden god associated with inward journeys. The angelic attributions are integrated into the card meanings and the guidebook’s interpretive framework, not simply decorative additions.
The artwork is described as classic-inspired, drawing from traditional spiritual imagery while remaining approachable. The Minor Arcana features unnamed angels present as witnesses or blessings in each pip card scene, and the court cards depict real historical figures chosen to represent the specific qualities of each court position. Gilt-edge cards in a gold-foil-accented deluxe box make this a visually impressive complete set.
A Complete System for Beginners and Experienced Readers
The 184-page illustrated guidebook is one of the most substantial included with any tarot set at this price point. It covers in-depth symbolism, angelic messages for each Major Arcana, and presents the deck as a complete beginner system, with each card readable straight from the box. Two additional reference cards for Minor Arcana numerology and suit-element correspondences are included. Rather than card reversals, the system uses direct meanings and shadow meanings for each card.
How to Use Influence of the Angels Tarot
How to get the most from the Influence of the Angels Tarot's unique angelic framework.
- Read the Angelic Attributions in the Guidebook
Before reading with the deck, spend time with the Major Arcana section of the guidebook. Each card's angel attribution adds meaning beyond standard tarot. Knowing that The Magician is Michael shifts how you interpret action and willpower cards.
- Use the Reference Cards During Readings
The two included reference cards cover Minor Arcana numerology and suit-element attributes. Keep them beside the deck during readings as quick lookup tools. They are especially useful for newer readers building familiarity with the pip card system.
- Work With Direct and Shadow Meanings
Instead of reversals, this deck uses a direct meaning and a shadow meaning for each card. When a card feels challenging in a reading, consult the shadow meaning rather than reversing it. This keeps the angelic tone of the deck consistent.
The Tarot Fellow Standard
This deck earns its shelf space because the 184-page guidebook is genuinely substantial. Most decks at this price include a pamphlet. Barbessi’s guidebook functions as a real study text, covering symbolism, angelic history, and interpretive depth that supports long-term use. The gilt-edge production quality is a bonus. If angel-themed decks interest you, browse my tarot deck collection for others in that tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The 184-page guidebook walks through every card with in-depth descriptions and angelic messages. The direct and shadow meaning system removes the complexity of reversals, making it one of the more accessible decks for newcomers to tarot.
The set includes 78 tarot cards plus 2 reference cards for a total of 80 cards. The reference cards cover Minor Arcana numerology and suit-element correspondences, useful as quick lookups during readings.
No. Instead of reversals, each card carries both a direct meaning and a shadow meaning. When a card appears in a challenging context, the shadow meaning is applied. This keeps the reading process consistent with the deck's angelic framework.
The deck was created by Jody Boginski Barbessi and published by U.S. Games Systems in 2018. The 184-page guidebook was authored by Barbessi with contributions from Karen Boginski, covering symbolism and angelic correspondences.
Cards are beautiful! Very descriptive with the art that’s on them and the book is very informative. I love the quality of the packaging. I can’t wait to start working with these!! ❤