Sranang Tarot - Surinamese symbolism through the classic structure
Most tarot decks follow the European visual tradition. This deck chooses a different starting point. Rachida Kacimi builds the 78 cards according to the classic structure, but replaces medieval archetypes with Surinamese motifs. The result is not an exotic variant, but a full retelling.
The cards are published by Libricura, a Dutch spiritual publisher. Everything is entirely in Dutch: the cards, the guidebook, the meanings. That makes this deck rare in a market dominated by English-language material.
What you see on the cards
The imagery is colourful and concrete. Traditional Surinamese clothing, everyday scenes, natural elements from the Surinamese context. Where a classic deck shows a medieval court, you see here dress and settings that arise from a different cultural reality.
The colours are vibrant without being loud. Each symbol is recognisable enough to support a traditional tarot reading, yet specific enough to tell its own story. That makes the deck accessible for those who know the classic meanings, and interesting for those looking for new associations.
How you work with it
The guidebook describes the symbolism per card and explains where the Surinamese motifs come from. That cultural framework helps you read the images, even if you have no personal connection to Suriname. The meanings align with the classic tarot tradition, but are enriched by the new context.
The format is standard: 70 x 120 mm. The card stock is sturdy and shuffles well. The finish is matte, which improves grip.
Draw one card and pay specific attention to the clothing or natural elements. Those details are not decorative, but carry meaning. The guidebook points you to which ones.
About Rachida Kacimi
Rachida Kacimi works at the intersection of different spiritual traditions. With the Sranang Tarot she builds a bridge between the European tarot structure and the Surinamese visual world. Her strength lies in respectfully integrating cultural symbolism without reducing it to decoration.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78 (Major and Minor Arcana)
- Format: 70 x 120 mm
- Language: Dutch (cards and guidebook)
- Publisher: Libricura Spirituele uitgeverij
- Design: Rachida Kacimi
- Card quality: sturdy, matte finish
- Includes: extensive guidebook with cultural context and meanings
Questions we often get
Do I need to be familiar with Surinamese culture to use this deck?
No. The guidebook explains the symbolism and places each motif in context. The cards follow the classic tarot structure, so if you know that, you can start right away.
How does this deck differ from a Rider-Waite deck?
The structure and sequence of the cards are the same. The difference lies in the imagery: where Rider-Waite uses European medieval archetypes, this deck chooses Surinamese motifs. The meanings remain recognisable, but gain a different entry point.
