Card Back Design
The backs of The Kemetic Tarot cards are designed to be reversible, so they look the same right-side up as they do upside down. The card backs are full of Kemetic symbols, and each symbol as a specific meaning. Here we'll explore each of the symbols on the card backs.
The Tjet Symbol
At the top and bottom middle of the card is the tjet, or "Knot of Aset", amulet symbol. The tjet amulet is a symbol of protection described in The Book of Going Forth By Day. It is closely associated with the goddess Aset.
The Outer Border
The outer border of the card back contains the verse from Chapter 156 of The Book of Going Forth By Day. This verse, in particular, consists of Kemetic words of power designed to recharge and invoke the protective power of the tjet amulet. The verse is repeated on both the left and right sides of the card.
The Shen Ring
The shen ring, a symbol of eternal protection, appears in the center of the card. The shen ring is a ring bound to a stick with ropes on its tangent.
The Statue Inscription
On the face of the shen ring is written the famous inscription from the ancient statue of Aset at Sais. The inscription reads: "I am all that has been, all that is, and all that shall be; no mortal has ever lifted my veil."
This inscription shows the close association between the goddess Aset and Nature itself. As controller of all the elements, Aset was considered the incarnation of Nature, or "Mother Nature" as we might say today. The veil motif reflects the mysteries of Nature, and is a common theme in modern philosophy and metaphysics.
The Eye of Heru
The Eye of Heru is a symbol of protection and healing. The story of the Eye of Heru is rooted in the story of Heru's battle with his uncle Set, the Lord of Chaos. During his struggle with Set, Heru's left eye was gouged out. It was later healed by the Neteru, using a magical milky mixture. Ever after that, Heru's right and left eyes were associated with the Sun and Moon, respectively; as well as the healing and protective powers of the Neteru.