Scrolls and books in tarot
A scroll or book holds knowledge that can be read and kept. The High Priestess holds a scroll lettered TORA, half hidden in her robe, suggesting the written law and the hidden meaning behind it. The four living creatures in the corners of the Wheel of Fortune each read or hold an open book, recalling the four Gospels. In readings scrolls and books stand for learning, study, sacred texts and knowledge that is partly hidden. The question is what has been written and who may read it.
Cards that show scrolls and books
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The High Priestess
The High Priestess: The Tora scroll
The scroll in her lap shows the letters TORA, partly covered by her robe. Torah is the Hebrew word for the Law. Waite says the covering shows 'that some things are implied and some spoken': she holds more than she reveals.
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Wheel of Fortune
Wheel of Fortune: The four living creatures
An angel, an eagle, a bull and a lion sit on clouds in the corners, each with an open book. They are the creatures of Ezekiel's vision and Revelation, later the emblems of the four Evangelists, and are often linked to the fixed signs of the zodiac. They return on the World.
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Three of Pentacles
Three of Pentacles: The drawing
A pale sheet bearing a design is held out at the monk's side, between him and the cloaked figure, towards the craftsman. It marks the card as one of shared plans: skill without a brief wanders, and a brief without skill stays on paper.
Related symbols
Hebrew letters and inscriptionsVeil and tapestryThe four living creatures