Alpha & Omega: Bible Edition

[Fud]

Hi Everyone,

In a few weeks we are launching the 2nd set of Alpha & Omega cards: Bible Edition!

These are 4 decks full of original illustrations of characters and scenes from the Bible:

- Creation (the book of Genesis)
- Law (the rest of the Old Testament)
- Gospel (The Gospels and Pentecost period)
- Revelation (The apocalyptic last book of the Bible)

Each deck has the same metallic inks, air cushion finish and superb deck upgrade options as the first project had. With over $170,000 raised in the first project (for a very niche audience), we expect this to do pretty well!

The feedback we have received from those decks has also been phenomenal - a real testament to the artwork and spirit of the project!

We have set the pricing as low as possible to make this affordable while still being marketable. We detest the $20+ price tag on pretty ordinary name-brand decks, and have done what we can to make these accessible.

While I know that the subject matter is not for everyone, the artwork is superb, respectful and accurate. This is a deck that Christians would be proud to use and display; people who are interested in history would like to look at, and collectors would like to own.

We have set up a prelaunch list to get notified when we launch for the best chance at snagging some of our Earlybird discounts. To join, visit THIS PAGE

Happy to answer any questions about the project, and I hope to see you there!

Ben

[veil]

Is there any chance that backers of the first campaign will get their gilded decks before the next campaign launches, or at least before it ends?

[STLBluesNut]

the art looks pretty solid on this and I'm always down for some nice dual sided courts.

[wingedpotato]

So excited for this! The first ones turned out fantastically and these should have an even wider appeal if the word gets out properly.

[Fud]

Is there any chance that backers of the first campaign will get their gilded decks before the next campaign launches, or at least before it ends?

Yes, I am working on the gilded decks at the moment - each day another dozen or so get done. I expect that I will be able to start shipping them out in lots of 50 within a week, aiming to get everything out within 2-3 weeks.

Progress on these was really hampered by GWH taking literally 3 months to get them to me. Very frustrating...

Ben

[Fud]

Hey Everyone,

The Alpha & Omega: Bible Edition Kickstarter project is going LIVE tomorrow:

7am PST / 10am EST / Thursday 2am Sydney

- 4 Decks in unique wood-cut style illustrations
- Super detailed, faithful illustrations
- The same gorgeous box as the first project
- Thousands of past customers lined up and ready

This should be a good one

Limited Earlybird discounts are available for most reward tiers, and you can pick up the first project decks as add ons as well.

Take a look at the project page (where we show all the details of every stunning card) and I'll see you tomorrow!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/el ... n=002bc68b

Ben

[vasta41]

Do you know what time?

[Fud]

Do you know what time?

Thanks for reminding me!

7am PST / 10am EST / Thursday 2am Sydney

[Fud]

Aaand we're live.

and funded!

[Sir Toddalot]

These look awesome! I’m in!

[laitostarr777]

I should go in for this - Bible is something that just hits me deep, because of the stories (and a redemption for not backing the first ones)
Plus, we got another deck that chronicles the Revelations - got the Jacks as the Horsemen - good compare with Apocalisse and Punk Magic's 666 (and Tony's Horseman)

[EndersGame]

This project is now LIVE! I have the first three decks from this series, and they are outstanding. This is a terrific follow-up!

[EndersGame]

I'm a big fan of the woodcut style artwork on these cards.

Having double-sided courts also works really well with this deck, and I really like the inclusion of the character names along both sides.

[EndersGame]

Here's some more pictures, and a write-up that I put together about this project.

Alpha & Omega Playing Cards (Kickstarter)

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/el ... ased-cards

Four beautiful Bible-based decks with characters and scenes from Creation through Revelation

Cost: ~US$15 per deck
Current funding level: over 300% funded
Kickstarter ends: Wednesday March 16, 2022



I've been a fan of playing card company Elephant Playing Cards (and its owner Ben Jones) ever since I came across their delightful Pipmen decks. Since their success with those charming decks, they have had a prodigious output of custom playing cards that have been enjoyed by people around the world.

One of their most recent projects were the first three decks of their Alpha & Omega Playing Cards series, which depicted different aspects of church history. They're easily among my favourite decks that I've purchased in the past year. As well as depicting important events from history, they feature a delightful woodcut style of artwork, superb graphic design, metallic gold inks, and an all-round gorgeous presentation and quality. They're also very practical for playing card games, and ideal for giving away as gifts.

Now Elephant Playing Cards has returned to give us another four decks of Alpha & Omega Playing Cards, this time depicting different parts of the Bible.





Regardless of your faith or beliefs, the Bible is unquestionably one of the most influential books of all time, and has had an enormous impact on history, literature, art, music, and culture. To properly understand so much of our heritage, it is important to at least be familiar with the people and stories found in the Bible.

The current project includes four different decks, each covering a different period of the Bible:
● Creation (the book of Genesis, and the first book of the Bible)
● Law (the Old Testament period, after Genesis)
● Gospel (the New Testament period, including the gospels and Pentecost)
● Revelation (an apocalyptic book, and the last book of the Bible)





Just as with the first decks of the series, these playing cards come with gorgeous tuck boxes, and quality playing cards. The tuck boxes have intricate embossing and foil accents, so the decks make an instant and positive first impression.

The style of graphic design and artwork on the cards is respectful of the material that is being depicted, and remains very functional and usable. Everything is fully customized, including the unique card backs, the court cards, the aces, the jokers, and even the number cards. I particularly appreciate the wood cut style that is best appreciated with the court cards, which are double sided and include the names of the characters depicted. The use of metallic inks on both the faces and backs of the cards adds a real touch of luxury and style, and was one of the things that really impressed me with the first three decks.





Printing is by USPCC, with linen style "air cushion" embossing ensuring consistent performance, and their popular crushed stock ensuring smooth handling.

There are various options for getting discounts when bundling all the decks together and pledging for higher tiers. The three decks from the previous project can be included as "add ons". All tiers of support also get you access to a free instructional ebook entitled "How to Play the Top 10 Card Games", which will give you some good ideas for what games to play with these or any decks of playing cards.

I'm delighted to see Ben Jones and Elephant Playing Cards making another wonderful contribution to the custom playing card market with this lovely set of four new Alpha and Omega Playing Cards.





Kickstarter link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/el ... ased-cards

For more information on the first three decks of the Alpha & Omega series (Early Church, Reformation, and Great Awakening), head to the product page over at Elephant Playing Cards.

[hsbc]

I personally have no interest in the theme but the art is so good that I'm still tempted, the Law deck is looking likely Congrats on the massive funding too!

[rousselle]

While I'm not a fan of the theme, I can absolutely recognize that it is done well and holds the whole project together. (Much like Jackson's Sherlock Holmes project, which was also based on a theme that doesn't resonate with me, but I picked up anyway because it was so well executed.) The art here is certainly top notch, and thematically cohesive.

One of the main problems for me that I don't see anyone else commenting on is the backs. They are very similar from deck to deck. Ben is touting these decks as being ideal for card games and gatherings, but in any game that lends itself to more than one deck (which is common for games that accommodate larger groups, like Hearts and Oh, Pshaw, etc.), you want the decks to be of a similar kind (say, two standard USPCC decks), but easily distinguishable (say, by having different colors like the red and blue bikes, or easily discerned different designs, like the Circle and the Fan Back Tallys). These backs are easily confused with each other, like a pack of red bikes and a pack of red maidenbacks. Separating the decks out at the end of a game would be a tedious process.

I'd raised this issue during the previous project, and obviously that project was too far in for Ben to give it any attention, but this project has also disregarded that concern. Which is fine; he has a vision of what he's trying to accomplish, and there will always be compromises. Many of my favorite decks lack one element or another when it comes to playability. However, it bothers me with this project -- more than I suppose it should -- for two main reasons:

1) there is such an emphasis on game play for groups, and this violates that emphasis, and

2) Combine the previous project with this project, and that's just so. very. many. decks that all have nearly identical backs. When I have seven decks, I'd like them to be somehow distinct from each other in an interesting visual way. I'm glad that the faces feature different characters on the courts, but since it's all in the same style, there still needs to be something more to differentiate them. Gio's projects can feature six decks with similar-style faces, but they are still wildly distinctive decks thanks to his use of color (as well as more subtle distinctions within the designs). Montenzi, Lorenzo, and others have also pulled this off brilliantly.

I think Ben is a great guy, and he has built up a lot of good will with how he runs his business and his design sensibilities. I have loved many of his projects in the past, and I sincerely want his company to continue to be around for years to come, assembling creative and fun decks of cards. I'm super glad that this project is already so wildly successful. And yet, I admit it: it's totally weird that I'm so fixated on this one thing, but I'm nonetheless finding it hard to pull the trigger on this project all because of this one issue. Give the backs different colors! Make these four decks more distinct from each other and from the three previous decks in this series!

[Fud]

...

I think Ben is a great guy, and he has built up a lot of good will with how he runs his business and his design sensibilities. I have loved many of his projects in the past, and I sincerely want his company to continue to be around for years to come, assembling creative and fun decks of cards. I'm super glad that this project is already so wildly successful. And yet, I admit it: it's totally weird that I'm so fixated on this one thing, but I'm nonetheless finding it hard to pull the trigger on this project all because of this one issue. Give the backs different colors! Make these four decks more distinct from each other and from the three previous decks in this series!

Hey Rouselle, I know, the back are my main regret about this deck as well. Everything else has come out as good or better than I was planning, but the backs could have been done better to distinguish between the packs.

The reason for this is 2-fold:

1. I was so deep in the weeds of the detail and symbology in the body of cards that I didn't pay enough attention to the useability, and by the time I realized it, it was too late.
2. In retrospect I found it difficult to come up with a cohesive color solution that didn't involve a second foil (which would have only been used sparingly).

And since the 2nd project is a continuation (completion) of the series, it was a foregone decision that the backs had to remain in the same style.

Sorry about that - I know it bugged you on the first project (I didn't ignore the comment) and I know it bugs you now, but there isn't much I can do about it now unfortunately. However, if this project goes well and I have enough energy after these 2 years of development to push it one more step, I will rectify this issue

[laitostarr777]

Oh, I think I like to share my very quick 2 cents:
I think the imagery of Jesus on playing cards artwork is okay - I have a Testament deck done by Ben Green, and Ben assigned Jesus as the King of Hearts.

But I understand if you choose not to - perhaps this is a matter between Catholic VS Protestant

In the end, all of the artworks are great! - as these decks featured EVEN MORE characters than the Testament deck. But as Rouselle said, you could have applied different colors to differentiate editions more than just changing the artwork on white background.
PS: I hope the last three Alpha and Omega decks made it to wholesale, so my local retailer can import them in

[EndersGame]

PS: I hope the last three Alpha and Omega decks made it to wholesale, so my local retailer can import them in

You can buy them directly from Ben's site here:

https://elephantplayingcards.com/products/alpha-omega

Highly recommended - they're outstanding decks.

[EndersGame]

Here's a few more images of the cards, including what the number cards look like:



1. Creation





2. Law





3. Gospel





4. Revelation

[rousselle]

Gotta say, there's a lot to like about the design work here.

[Harvonsgard]

Somehow the power aces (except for the tree of life AoS - that I like) and the frames are not at all to my liking so I'd say designwise quite the opposite to Allan personally.
The artwork/court illustrations themselves, are fingerliking good (except for the lion and lamb - lamb looks like simply pasted on the original artwork to me).
If it wasn't for these two negatives I would be allover these decks besides being quite far from Christian or having a Christian background.

[laitostarr777]

I feel like writing this post to tell the stories of all the characters and the chapters in the Bible to understand the artworks on this deck. Majority of the contents in the Holy Bible is 70% of stories. Consider this post a full in-depth Sunday School lessons:
PS: The posts will be separated into four different parts, each covers a deck edition in this series.

Creation
Creation covers the story of the origins of the world. It begins with God created the world and the first human, and what follows are incredible stories of how God had guided the characters throughout their lives. The story about Creation along with the life of Adam and Eve have been a popular theme to be made as playing cards - such as Thirdway Industries Eva, Monolith, and SINS and Skymember Presents The Origins by Austin Ho. This Book of Genesis is probably the most interesting book to read in the Bible.
Aces
The Aces in "Creation" shows important scenes throughout the stories in Genesis.

• Ace of Spades - Castaway from Eden; The first human, Adam and Eve, have commited the first Sin of eating the Forbidden Fruit from the Tree of Life. After God had listed the consequences for both Adam and Eve, He ordered them to get out from the Garden of Eden. To prevent them both to enter the Garden again, God sent a cherumbim with a floating sword guarding the entrance to paradise.
• Ace of Hearts - First Human; On the 6th day of Creation, after God had created the animals that roams the earth, He created the first human according to His image. The first human is named Adam. Adam is tasked by God to take care of the garden and naming all of the animals. Because he is alone, God made him a woman companion from Adam's ribcage - and named Eve. Together, they both lived in the Garden of Eden.
• Ace of Clubs - Tree of Life and Snake; The Tree of Life bears the Fruit of Knowledge - a fruit that grants it's consumer with the knowledge of Good and Evil. It is the only fruits that both Adam and Eve can't consume. But, on that fateful day, Satan in from of a snake, persuades Eve to eat the fruit - as Satan convinced her God forbid her to do so because God doesn't want the human to be as equal as God. As Eve ate the fruit, so as Adam - this is the downfall of the first Human, the first Sin.
• Ace of Diamonds - Bright Light; In the beginning, it was completely darkness. God commands, "Let there be Light!" and the darkness just got engulfed with a very bright flash of light - Creation starts here, and this is done on the 1st day of Creation. No tools or resources, just words.

Courts
The courts in "Creation" shows the characters throughout the Book of Genesis, spanning over the many stories told in that book. Heroes and villains, they are all shown on the cards. Each card show two characters, with one on each side - their names are written on the sides of the frame.

• Jack of Spades - Noah/Enoch
  • Noah = With humanity had been corrupted by sin, God decided to reset the world by sending in the Great Flood. The only good human living at that time is Noah. God came to Noah and asked him to build an ark from gopher wood. He along with his family: wife Naameh and sons Shem, Ham, and Japeth do as God instructed. The ark is a very huge ship and it can contained every animals living on the world [a pair of male and female each species] and with Noah's family. As the Great Flood comes in, the ark floats on the vast sea of waters as the sinful human perish. The ark stays afloat for 40 days until the water receeds and the Ark docked on land. As a peace treaty, God promised to never thrown in the Great Flood and casts a rainbow. Noah's family restart the human civilization on Earth.
  • Enoch = Enoch is part of the family lineage of Seth. He stayed faithful to God for at least 300 years! He had lived for 365 years until God walked with him - taking him to Heaven before he died. Enoch is the great grandfather of Noah [with Methuselah is Noah's grandfather and Lamech is Noah's father]. Enoch has his name writted as a full book that prophesies the reign of Messiah on earth, the origins of Demon, and the reason why some angels have fallen and the Great Flood is necessary.
• Jack of Hearts - Lot/Pharaoh
  • Lot = Lot is Abraham's nephew. That time, he and his family lived in the town of Sodom and Gommorah. God saw both cities are full of sinners, and He will punish those two cities by pouring them with fire and meteors. The Angels were sent to warn Lot about this, so Lot get his stuffs ready and get out of the city to move to the neighboring city. As the cities were destroyed, the Angels instructed them to keep on going and don't look back. But, Lot's wife disobeys the instruction and she is turned to a pillar of salt.
  • Pharaoh = He is the Pharaoh during the times of Joseph. That time, Joseph was imprisoned over a crime he didn't commit. The Pharaoh was disturbed with a dream that he can't understand. The Pharaoh's cupbearer (who was imprisoned together with Joseph) remembered about Joseph and suggests to the Pharaoh that his Highness called Joseph to intrepet his dream (as he did to the cupbearer). Joseph is called in and he intrepeted the dream of a future event: 7 years of abundance and 7 years of famine. Under Joseph's command, Egypt managed to secure stocks of grains to survive during famine. Eventually, the Pharaoh welcomed the Isrealites to lived in Egypt to survive the famine.
• Jack of Clubs - Esau/Laban
  • Esau = Esau is the oldest brother of Jacob under Isaac's family. Esau has a rougher skin full of hairs and he is the hunter in the family, hunting animals for food. One day, he was exhausted and he happend to smell the cooking of lentils soup made by his younger brother Jacob. Jacob is willing to give Esau a bowl of lentils, but the payment is the firstborn birthright. Recklessly, Esau just gives it away with ease, as he is so hungry.
  • Laban = Laban is Jacob's uncle. Jacob runs away from Esau to take refuge in Laban's household. There, Jacob fell in love with Rachel. To marry Rachel, Jacob has to worked for Laban for 7 years long. But then, Laban tricked him by replacing the woman he loved with Leah (possibly for karma of Jacob tricking his blind father Isaac). Jacob worked for another 7 years to ask for marriage to Rachel.
• Jack of Diamonds - Ishmael/Nimrod
  • Ishmael = Ishmael is the son of Abraham under Hagar, the Egyptian handmaided. At that time, Sarah wanted to bear a child, but since she was old - she appointed Hagar as Abraham’s wife to conceived a child for him. The son of Hagar is named Ishmael. Later, a miracle was given to God so that Sara conceived another son for Abraham, who is named Isaac. When she saw Ishamel was with Isaac, she ordered Abraham to casts Hagar out to the desert, because she doesn't want the family lineage to be given to Ishmael. And so he did in fear for his wife's anger, or perhaps this is part of God's plan for Ishmael. Hagar and Ishmael travelled under the scorching sun until they are ran out of water and dying. Hagar pleaded to God to saved his son out of desperation. God answered the plead and helped them both, since Ishmael is still part of Abraharm's lineage and since the prophecy still remains true for Abraham's family. Through Ismael lineage, they to be called the Arabs.
  • Nimrod = Nimrod is the first ruler of the world, having controlled the land of Shinar. He ruled over the people under one language, and then one day, he declared to his people that he wanted to built a tower that will reached the Heavens. The construction commenced, and people worked tirelessly hard to stack those bricks and mortal to create a tall structure. When God saw this, He was disheartened - seeing this is what humankind did when they were all united in one language. So, He sent HIs Angels down to earth and confused their language. As a result, people were arguing over the many languages spoken, and the construction was stopped, leaving the tower in ruins. That place was named Babel, because it is there where people have multiple languages, and where God had scattered them across the world. This story is believed to be the myth behind the many languages exist today.
• Queen of Spades - Eve/Rebekah
  • Eve = Eve is the first woman of the world. She was created by God as a mean to Adam's companion in the Garden of Eden. That fateful day, Eve succumbs into temptation when she was seduced by Satan, eating the Forbidden Fruit and convinced Adam to do so. God punished her that as a woman, she will be struggling in pain and agony when giving birth. She became Adam's wife and conceived sons outside of the Garden.
  • Rebekah = She is also known as Rebecca. Abraham sent his trusted servant named Eliezer to look for a suitor for Isaac's wife outside of Canaan. He found it hard to find the right woman, so he prayed to God for guidance. He then stood by the well with his camels, and to his surprise, a beautiful woman served him and his camels with water. At that moment, Eliezer found the right suitor - her name is Rebekah. After a heartful party and lavish gifts, he brought Rebekah straight away to Isaac, to whom she married with and gave birth to siblings Esau and Jacob.
• Queen of Hearts - Sarah/Hagar
  • Sarah = Sarai, later to be renamed to Sarah, is the wife of Abraham. She along with Abraham and Lot travelled to Canaan as instructed by God. During the travels in Egypt, she pretended to be Abraham's sister so the Pharaoh won't take her from her husband. At the age of 75, still she can't conceived a son, so she asked for the handmaiden Hagar to be Abraham's wife and conceived Ishamel. When God sent the Angels to pose as visitors to the camp, they told that Sarah will conceived a son at a very old age. True to their words, she gave birth to Isaac.
  • Hagar = Hagar is a slave from Egypt and later to be employed as a handmaiden to Sarah. At the very old age, Sarah is still barren and worried that she can't fulfilled God's prophecy to the family of Abraham. So, Sarah brought Hagar to Abraham to be his wife and bear a son who is named Ishmael. Later, when Isaac was born, Ishamel is no longer needed in the family, so Sarah ordered Abraham to casted Hagar and Ishamel out. But, God made sure that Ishmael will thrived and made a promise that he will build the great nation. Hagar found her son a wife from Egypt, and they settled at the Desert of Paran.
• Queen of Clubs - Leah/Rachel
  • Leah = Leah is the first daughter of Laban, Jacob's uncle. Leah is not of interest to Jacob, as he loved Rachel very much. But, through Laban's deception, Leah was given to Jacob after he had fulfilled his duty of 7 years of work without pay. Discovering this deception, Jacob confronts Laban about this. Laban explained that little sister can't overcome the big sister, thus why Laban has to give Leah as his wife. To marry Rachel, Jacob had to work for another 7 years. During the period of working under Laban, Leah got jealous as Jacob loved Rachel more. God granted Leah with four sons: the first four sons of Jacob - Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah. She would also give her handmaiden Zilpha to bear more children to Leah: the seventh and eighth son of Jacob - Gad and Asher. Lastly, Leah gave birth to two more sons: the ninth and tenth son of Jacob: Issachar and Zebulun.
  • Rachel = Rachel is the second daughter of Laban, and Leah’s little sister. Jacob loved her at first sight he stepped at Laban’s household. Jacob wanted to marry Rachel by working for Laban 7 years long without pay. But, after that time, Laban tricked him by giving Leah, so Jacob have to work for another 7 years. Fearing that Laban might deter everything Jacob had worked hard for, Jacob planned to leave for Canaan bringing his wives and children. During the move, Rachel secretly stole her father’s idol. Laban was furious that he didn’t get to say farewell to her daughters, as well as mentioning that his idol was stolen. Jacob cursed that whoever stole that idol shall die. Rachel hid the idol by sitting beneath her clothing and pretended to be on her period, avoiding inspection. Jacob really love Rachel very much, but sadly she was barren. She gave her handmaiden Bilhah to conceive two sons: the fifth and sixth son of Jacob - Dan and Naphtali. It took a very long time until Rachel finally be able to give birth her own sons: the eleventh son, Joseph - and later, the twelfth son, Benjamin, at a very old age. These 12 sons (including the sons from Leah and the two handmaidens) later become the 12 Tribes of Israel.
• Queen of Diamonds - Asenath/Potiphar’s Wife
  • Asenath = Asenath is an Egyptian woman who is a high class aristocrat in Egypt. She eventually met with Joseph when he got into Egypt. She was impressed by his kindness, so she married him - and stayed by his side during the ordeal happening in Egypt (the abundance and the famine). Asenath gave birth to Manasseh and Ephraim, both of who Jacob blessed and treat them both as his sons.
  • Potiphar’s Wife = Potiphar is the captain of the Pharaoh’s guards. He bought Joseph as a slave in the market and ordered him to do chores around his residences. When Jacob impressed him with his intelligence, Potiphar appointed him as the master of the household. Potiphar’s wife, however, have a dirty plan for Joseph. One night, she forced Joseph to sleep with her, but he refused. That refusal was not taken that lightly, that she accused to Potiphar that it was Jacob who tried to sleep and seduced with her. Feeling betrayed, Potiphar have Joseph to be imprisoned. Later, he learned of his wife’s unfaithfulness, and regrets of putting his trusted servant to prison.
• King of Spades - Adam/Seth
  • Adam = Adam is the very first human that ever walked the earth. He is created during the 6th day of Creation, shaped with dirt and dust as God's image, the breath of life flows through the nostrils, and the first human opened his eyes and see the beautiful Garden of Eden. He is named Adam. He is tasked with guarding the beauty of the garden and to named all of the animals. Later, he will be accompanied by Eve. On that fateful day, he commited the first Sin, and his punishment from God is that he will be working hard in order to enjoy the nourishment of life, working with blood, sweat, and tears.
  • Seth = Seth is born after both Cain and Abel are nowhere to be found - Abel was murdered by his own brother and Cain left to be a wanderer in the desert. Seth is the third children of Adam and Eve, and followed the footsteps of God - Eve believed that Seth is born to replace Abel who have died too soon. It is from his lineage, came Enoch and then to Noah.
• King of Hearts - Cain/Abel
  • Cain = Cain is the first son of Adam and Eve. He is the farmer in the family, plow the land for grains. He is somewhat cold hearted and full of jealousy. During the time he and his little brother Abel made an offering to God, his offering of grains was not regarded. His face turned sour after seeing his little brother's offering was regarded by God. Later, he invited Abel out on the fields, and right there where he made a fatal blow to Abel, killing him. He his body somewhere hidden, and then walk away. On his journey, God confronts him to ask about Abel, but Cain denied of knowing his whereabouts. God pressured him to admited his murder, and eventually punished him. Cain felt this punishment is too heavy for him to bare, so He put a mark on Cain that whoever killed Cain will suffer the punishment sevenfold. From then on, Cain had become a wanderer and lived a nomadic style.
  • Abel = Abel is the second son of Adam and Eve. He is the shepherd in the family, taking care of herd of sheeps. He is faithful, kind, and joyful. During the time he with Cain made an offering to God, his offering of the best lamb was regarded. Cain grew jealous of Abel, and eventually Cain murdered Abel out in the open fields. Even his body is being hidden from anyone to find, his blood had been absorbed to the ground, and it screams to God. This scream is the voiceless witness that Cain had murdered him.
• King of Clubs - Abraham/Isaac
  • Abraham = Used to be named Abram, Abraham is the chosen man to go to the promised Land of Canaan. He brings his wife Sarai (or Sarah) and his nephew Lot on the trip. God had protected his journey throughout, as Abraham is always faithful to Him. One night, God come to speak to him and asked him to go outside the camp and see the night sky. God made a promise to Abraham that his family lineage will be as big as the number of stars on the sky. Later on, God granted him a son conceived by his old wife Sarah. It is right there where God tested his faith. He asked Abraham to go the the mountains to sacrifice his own son on an altar. He almost did it, until the Angel stopped him from doing so, and God confronted him and said that Abraham is really faithful.
  • Isaac = Isaac is the second son of Abraham and Sarah. Isaac is most beloved since it is born when Sarah was really old - at an age where it is just impossible for women to give birth. The family legacy of Abraham will be continued with him. After the test of faith by God to Abraham and the death of Sarah, Abraham sent his servant to the hometown where he is from to look for a woman that is best suited for Isaac. A few days later, the servant bring back home Rebekah. She and Isaac were married and have two children, Esau and Jacob.
• King of Diamonds - Jacob/Joseph
  • Jacob = Jacob is the youngest son of Isaac and Rebekah. He is smooth skinned and sort off weak but smart. One day, he was cooking soup of lentils, which brought the attention to his hungry older brother Esau. Jacob is willingly to give him a bowl of lentils soup, only if Esau gives him the firstborn birthright. Esau did so, so one day, when he went out for hunting, Jacob and Rebekah set up a scheme to get that birthright blessings. Jacob is covered with rough sheep wool to give an impression of a rough skin, and then Rebekah cooked a hearty meal to be brought to Isaac. Because Isaac is blind, he can only feel Jacob through the skin, and since it is rough, Isaac though it is Esau, and he had given the blessings. Esau is enraged to hear about this, and he promised that Jacob will pay if he crossed paths with him. Jacob decided to run away to Laban's household. During the journey, he stopped for a rest, and that very night, he dreamed of a heavenly stairs - angels stepped down from it and gave him a message. Reaching Laban's household, Jacob worked for a total of 14 years to marry Laban's daughters Leah and Rachel. After all of those hard work, Jacob decided to return back to Canaan, to meet with his brother. Before the meet, Jacob met with an angel and wrestled with him. He won over the angel, and the Angel blessed him that he will be called "Israel", because he wrestled with God and he won. The reunion with his brother Esau is heartwarming, with Esau welcomed him with opened hands.
  • Joseph = Joseph is the dearest son of Jacob and Rachel. He is so loved by the father that he always gets the special treatment, like getting to learn a lot of things and always escape hard labor. This makes the other siblings get jealous of him. It reached the pinnacle point on this event - Jacob decided to gifted Joseph with a colorful cloak. As Joseph showed this to his brothers, they simply throwed him deep into the well, and when a slave trader passed by, they sold Joseph to the trader. The brothers stained the cloak with blood and told the parents that Joseph was killed by wolves. In Egypt, Joseph faced a lot of struggles, as he worked hard as a slave, and then falsely accused of raping his master's wife. In prison, Joseph showed his skills as a dream intrepeter - he translated the meaning of the dreams which the cupbearer and baker dreamt that came true the next day. This brings the attention of the Pharaoh, in which Joseph managed to translate his dream, and led Egypt to survive the famine. Eventually one day, his brothers happened to come to Egypt in order to get grains. Joseph quickly have them captured, and after a long negotiation, the brothers were released and can bring the grains home, with the exception that one brother stayed. They promised that they have to bring back the youngest brother, Benjamin. Jacob doesn't willingly to allow them to take Benjamin after what happened to Joseph (whom he pressumed dead), but the brothers made an oath that they will suffer the consequence should they fail to bring back Benjamin safe. Going back again to Egypt, Joseph welcomed the brothers and they all have a feast together, while secretly asked the guard to slip in a silver goblet inside Benjamin's sack of grain. The guards then stopped them, then seized Benjamin for "stealing" the goblet. The brothers go back again to the palace, tearfully pleads that they should take Benjamin's place - feeling guilty of what they have done in the past. Seeing and hearing about this, Joseph finally revealed himself, alive and well, to his brothers. Joseph forgives them, as he knew that this was all planned by God - Joseph being sent to Egypt was meant to prepare for the upcoming famine by stocking a lot of grain stocks to survived it. With this, he welcomed the Israelites to Egypt.

Jokers

• Joker A - Space and Galaxy = God had created the universe through only by His commands and His words. He is the Mighty Force that creates the World and ruled over. He created the world within 6 days, and He rested on the 7th day - the concept of 7 days in a week, with the 7th day being where believers would worship God in a mass.
• Joker B - Protoevangelium = God promised that there will be a redeemer who came to earth to crush the serpent's head at the cost of him being injured in the process. It is a promise by God that there will be someone who come to Earth and would be the one who deliver human away from sins.

[laitostarr777]

Law
Law, most accurately labelled as "The Law and the Prophets", tells the story after what happened in the Genesis. Sets up after the death of Joseph in Egypt, the Book of Exodus and forward until the last book in the Old Testament, tells the story of how the Israelites trying (and failed) to lived under the Mosaic law that was given to them at Mount Sinai. These stories were full of interesting events, which is all tell that God will always be there to help those who needed help, and God would use us flawed humans to do as He commanded. As said in the previous posts, most of the Bible contents are mostly stories, and they all are interesting to read and moral messages to learn.
Aces
The Aces feature powerful events where God showed Himself to the people of Israel, to show He is One and Only God.

• Ace of Spades - Burning Tree; While herding sheeps, Moses was called by a voice on the mountains. As he climbed up, he saw a light coming from behind the rocks. When he gets closer, he saw a tree with burning flames, yet the tree doesn't burn to crisps. God showed Himself in front of Moses, telling him that He had heard and seen the suffering of the Israelites in Egypt, who were under the slavery of a cruel hearted Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to go to Egypt and convinced the Pharaoh to let the people go, or God would send 10 plagues to Egypt. This is where the tale of Exodus starts.
• Ace of Hearts - Blood on Entrances; Moses was told by God that the last plague will be so devastating that surely would make the Pharaoh released His people - the tenth plague will be death to all first born, as He will sent the Angel of Death to go through Egypt and take away their souls. To survive this plague, Moses ordered for the Israelites to mark their homes with lamb's blood, have it painted on the doorposts and lintels so that the Angel of Death won't get through the barrier.
• Ace of Clubs - Burned Offering; Prophet Elijah challenges 450 prophets of Baal to summon fire to the altar during the longest dry season in the nation. The prophets of Baal prayed so hard, yet there is no fire summoned on the biggest altar they made. But, when Elijah made the smallest altar circled with water, he prayed to God for fire on the altar, and God sent a pillar of flames from the heavens, burning that altar. That is to proove that God is the only living God, and people should stop worshipping Baal.
• Ace of Diamonds - Sea Split to Two; The Israelites were led up by Moses to get out of Egypt. On the journey, they faced a vast roadblock, the Red Sea. On their tails were the furious Pharaoh and his soldiers wanting to kill them. God sent a pillar of fire to hold them back, while He guided Moses to create a path for the Israelites to pass: as Moses raised his staff, the sea were split to two, creating a safe passage for people to pass. Once Moses and the people pass through, the sea closed onto the chasing soldiers, drowning them.

Courts
The courts for "Law" shows a variety of characters throughout the many books ranging from Exodus to Malachi. There are Prophets, Judges, Kings, Priests, and Queens as well as ordinary people that were used to carry out God's will. Each court presents two characters, with one on each side. Their names shown on the side of the borders.

• Jack of Spades - Daniel/Jonah
  • Daniel = Daniel is a Judean who were brought to Babylon to be trained to serve in courts. He doesn't come alone; he comes with three of his friends: Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. During training, they refused to eat and drink something fancy as it would deviled their religion. One day, when the three friends refused to worship other idol, King Nebuchadnezzar sentenced them to be burned inside a fiery furnace. The trio survived, and the soldiers claimed to see a 4th person: The Angel of God who protect them from the burning flames. The King is amazed and called them by their Babylonian name: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The same King of Babylonian dreamt a strange dream, and only Daniel can intrepet it - saying that God reigns supreme upon the earth above the earthly kings. When Babylon is succedeed by King Belshazzar, he drank from the vessels stolen from the Jewish temples, and that is when a floating hand write a message of unknown language on the wall. Daniel is called again and he was able to translate it: "Mene, Mene, Tekel Urfasim" - meaning it is a warning that Babylon will be taken and divided between Medes and Persian. The message rings true as Darius of Mede besieged Babylon and kill Belshazzar. Learning that Daniel is the only one who intrepeted the warning message: Darius appoints him as his chief administrator. The new king's other administrators got jealous of him, that they devised a plan to make Daniel broke the law. Since the newly made law can't be taken back, Darius is forced to proceed with the punishment, sending Daniel to the lion's den. Daniel is a faithful man, so God sent the Angel to closed the mouths of the lions, and Daniel survived the night in the cave. King Darius is happy that Daniel survived the lion's den - and proceed with punishing his other administrators. This story was widely annouonced throughout Babylon, with Daniel decides to stay in Babylon.
  • Jonah = Jonah is appointed by God to warn the people of Niniveh to repent of their actions, or else God will destory that city. But, Jonah is trying to escape from that duty and decides to go to Jaffa and decided to sail for Tarshish. Suddenly, a storm hits up the voyage. Attempts on removing loads or try to control the steer, they realized that it is not an ordinary storm. They pulled out lots, and Jonah is confirmed to be they cause of the storm. Jonah explained that he had escaped from his God duties, so he threw himself overboard to clear the storm. Suddenly, a big fish swallowed Jonah, where he stayed in there for three days and three nights, praying to God and ask for His forgiveness. The fish spewed him out to land, and Jonah proceeds to go to Niniveh to spread the words. Reaching the city, he gets to spread the news, and the people believed his words. In response to the message, the people in the city, including the king and queen, wear sack clothes and sit on ashes then fasting to show that they will repent. With that, the city of Niniveh was spared from the wrath of God.
• Jack of Hearts - Ezekiel/Job
  • Ezekiel = Ezekiel is a visionary prophet. During the time when Jerusalem was destroyed [as foretold by prophet Jeremiah, who keep on insisting that Israel repents, but failed] in the aftermath of Babel's siege, Ezekiel along with the other Israelites become prisoners of the enemy, and were exiled out of the city. It seemed that hope is lost for them. One day, God comes to Ezekiel as the divine warrior riding a chariot moved by four living creatures, each having four faces - man, ox, eagle, and lion. God appoints Ezekiel as a prophet and as the "watchmen" of the Israelites. Although he received prophecies about the destruction of Jerusalem and Israel, along with the destruction of the enemies, Ezekiel received the prophecy of hope. One of his visions include the valley of dry bones, the slain Israelites. Through the words of Ezekiel under the grace of God, he brought the skeletons back to life, shaping flesh and blood onto them. He gives them the breath of life and everyone begin to praise and worship God. This propechy is a promise that the Jewish exile will come to an end and Jerusalem will be rebuilt into a new prosperous city, and one day, the Jews will reunited as one.
  • Job = Job was a wealthy living man who served God in his life. God liked him very much. One day, Satan comes to him and said that Job's current state is because of His protection, and made a bet that IF he suffered hard, Job will curse God for giving him the unfortunate events. Accepting the bet, God removed His protection from Job, allowing Satan to lay all kinds of misfortunes on Job: all of his wealth are gone, his children are taken, and his health is suffering. Despite all of these pain and suffering, Job never takes his frustration to God, as he remained humble and faithful to him - adknowledging that God intent to make this to happen. Job's three friends accused Job that he must have sinned, and forced him to repent. Although Job never commited any sin, thus disregarding their adveseries. Suddenly, God made a presences to them. He rebuked the three friends who gave bad advices to Job. And as for Job, he is restored to his original state, but for even better state: more wealth and more prosperous. God had won his bet against Satan.
• Jack of Clubs - Elijah/Isaiah
  • Elijah = Elijah is the prophet of God during the reign of King Ahab on Israel. The king is distancing from God under the influence of Queen Jezebel - worship the deity of Baal. Elijah confronts him and somewhat cursed the nation that there will be three years of drought - no even a single rain event will drop. After saying that, the prophecy becomes real - the land becomes dry, and there are no more water left to quench the thirst of the people. Angered by this, King Ahab confronts Elijah who hids in a cave, angry about why would he cursed Israel. Elijah argued back that it was the king who allowed the people to worship other god. He then sets up a challenge: Baal vs Yahweh (God), see which one is the living God and should be worshipped - the task is simply pray for the deity to bring down fire to the offering altar. 450 prophets of Baal are gathered around on Mount Carmel, with the people of Israel as witness to the challenge. The prophets of Baal prepared a large offering altar, and they pray hard for their god Baal to bring down fire to no avail - it is quiet. When it comes to Elijah's turn, he build up a small altar circled by water, and he called to God to bring down fire. It happend! Pillar of flame comes down from the sky and burn the woods of the altar. The people have witnessed this and decided that they should worship God. Elijah commanded the people to chase the prophets of Baal and killed them. After that, rain falls down and the nation is saved from thirst. This angered Queen Jezebel, and commenced a manhunt for Elijah. But, God would always protect the people who stays faithful to Him. In the end of his life, Elijah doesn't die, but he is picked up by God's chariot and rides up towards Heaven, passing the torch to the bald prophet Eliza.
  • Isaiah = Isaiah is a prophet of God under the reign of King Hezekiah in the kingdom of Judah. He was a faithful ruler that succeeds his cruel father Ahaz. At Hezekiah's rule, the Assyrians beseiged Judea and Jerusalem, deveastating the king. King Sennacherib of the Assyryians threatened to destroy Judea and Jerusalem should King Hezekiah remained strong and resisting their conquer, and in doing so, blasphemed and taunted God. With that, King Hezekiah sent a message to prophet Isaiah for guidance. The people will pray for protection and surrenders to God's will, as the Assryians fate will be fatal as the consequence of mocking the God Almighty. With that prayer, the angels of God descent from the Heaven, and 185,000 soldier just died in one night. The punishment of blasphemy is fatal... Prophet Isaiah doesn't just helped Judea to defeat the Assyrians. He also received big prophecies about the future. The prophecy spoke of God will give out signs, and a virgin will conveived a son that will be named "Immanuel" meaning "God is with us" - this is later revealed to be the prophecy of Jesus. This big prophecy is what makes Prophet Isaiah a well-known character in the Bible.
• Jack of Diamonds - Samson/Gideon
  • Samson = Samson is a Nazarite and one of the Judges of Israel. He is known for this superhuman strength - Samson is able to kill a lion with his bare hands and defeat a lot of Philistines army with only the jawbone of a donkey. The secret to his strength is that he never trimmed his hair since birth - the hair is the source of his power and his Achilles heel. He never told this to anyone, until one day, when he fell in love with Delilah over her beauty and he told her the secrets. Delilah betrayed him as she secretly trimmed his hair while sleeping together, and she sold Samson to the Philistines, he can’t fight back and finally captured. His eyes were gouged and he is forced into work labor. During the celebration of capturing Samson, the king of the Philistines ordered the man to be showcased in the stadium, chained to two pillars and get mocked by the people present. Samson prayed for forgiveness of failing the duty and asked for one final jolt of strength to vanquish the enemies. With that, God sent the Angels to help push the hands of Samson, breaking the pillars and destroying the stadium. It killed over 3,000 Philistines, but with Samson’s sacrifice.
  • Gideon = During the period of Judges, the Israelites keeps on forgetting God and back to resume worshiping other idols after the previous judges passed away. Judges are people who were appointed by God to act as the leader of the tribe with God as ruler over them. In this story, the Israelites lived in peace for 40 years until they fell under the hands of the Midians. God decided to appointed Gideon as the Judge. But Gideon doesn't believe it, as he is just an ordinary farmer and the weakling in his family. To make sure that this is God’s will, Gideon asked for three signs. The first sign is an Angel of God appeared before Gideon and he caused fire to shoot up out of the rock. The second and third sign are involving a fleece - first one found the fleece to be wet while the surrounding land is dry, and then the next morning, the surrounding area is wet with dew while the fleece is dry. Having adknowledge these signs, Gideon trully believe he was asigned by God. He gathered up the 32,000 soldiers to prepare to battle against the Midians. Although, God instructed Gideon to reduced the numbers, as having too many men would reasoned to believe that the victory is by man power, not by God. The first instruction is to ask those who are afraid can leave right away - there are 22,000 soldiers left for home, leaving up 10,000. Second instruction is to bring them to the river to drink water. From there, God only annoited the soldiers who drank the water while having their weapons ready on the other hand - which is only up to 300 soldiers. It is a low number against many of the enemy. That night, Gideon sneaks up to the Midian camp, where he overheard them telling of a dream that meant God has given the Midianites to Gideon. Hearing this, Gideon decide to attack that very moment. Splitting the soldiers into three groups, Gideo marched towards the enemy, ambushing them and reign victorious.
• Queen of Spades - Miriam/Rahab
  • Miriam = Mirian is Moses's older sister. During the hunt for newborns in Egypt, Moses have to be saved by putting him inside a basket that will be carried by the River Nile. Miriam watches the basket as it flows toward the palace. She saw as his little infant brother is taken from the river by the Pharaoh's daughter, and he is named Moses. Later, Miriam would joined with Moses and Aaron to travel with the free Israelites towards the Promised Land of Canaan, passing through obstacles and crossing the Red Sea. After crossing the Red Sea, witnessing Egyptian soldiers perishes, Miriam led the women in the travelling group to the Song of the Sea and becomes a propetess, walking alongside Moses.
  • Rahab = Rahab is a Canaan woman living within the city of Jericho. She is a harlot, a prostitute woman who serve men for pleasure. One day, she was visited by two men. She asked them to hide well as the city's guards came in for inspection. Rahab managed to tricked them that there is nobody home but only herself. With the guards leaving, the men is safe to come out from hiding. She told them both that she knew that they are spies send by the Israelites to scout the city. Because she helped them, Rahab demands that she and her family will be rescued during the takeover of the city. The promise is indeed fulfilled - after the Israelite claimed the city of Jericho, they rescued her and her family. Rahab is heraled as a saint.
• Queen of Hearts - Ruth/Naomi
  • Naomi = Naomi is a beautiful woman from Judea. She is married to a man named Elimelech, and has two sons: Mahlon and Chilion. When famine strucks, the family moved from Judea to Moab. Sadly, Elimelech died there, along with both sons. Naomi is lefted with two daughters-in-law: Orpah and Ruth. After the famine period passed away, Naomi has plans to return back to Judea. She asked for both women to return and marry again - and it is accepted fact that now with Naomi is getting old, she can't give birth to sons that they can marry with. Orpah decided to stay in Moab while Ruth accompanied Naomi to return back to Judea. When they are back in Judea, it is the beginning of barley harvest. As well, the return of Naomi back to Judea, bringing along her only daughter-in-law Ruth, would change everything.
  • Ruth = Ruth is a beautiful woman and the daughter-in-law of Naomi. When Naomi's husband and two sons died, she with Ruth moved back to Judea, when it happened to be the beginning of barley harvest. There lived the relative of Elimelech, a handsome man named Boaz. Ruth works in his field, gleaning the grains after the reapers. That is when Boaz noticed her, and asked her that she would only work on his fields and if she ever feel thirsty she would drink from the vessels of the reapers. Ruth asked why would Boaz treat a foreigner like her so kindly, with Boaz replied that he had heard how loyal Ruth is to Naomi. At mealtime, Boaz invited her to eat together, and he tasked the reapers not to rebuke and reproach her, instead the reapers would pull out some barley from the bundles for Ruth to gleaned. Naomi started to noticed that Boaz like her, and she suggests that Naomi should be his wife. At midnights, Ruth confronts Boaz and asked him to protect her, as he was her husband's goel. Boaz considers, as he had to asked the relative that was even closer to Ruth first. The next morning, Boaz asked that relative, telling him that Naomi intended to sell Elimelech's land. The relative wanted to take that offer, making Boaz startled - as whoever bought the land, he should take Ruth as his wife as it is to clear off any debt. So, that relative refuses this offer, and allowed Boaz to take the offer. Boaz is happy, and he told Ruth the good news. Both Ruth and Boaz eventually married and lived happily ever after. This is a romance story in the Bible. Although, why it seemed important? Because... Ruth will conceived Obed, who will later have a son named Jesse. From Jesse, later come David.
• Queen of Clubs - Esther/Hannah
  • Esther = Ester is a beautiful maiden who is the niece of Mordechai. Both Ester and Mordechai are Jewish, and they are amongst the others who were exiled when Jerusalem was destroyed - they both were in Persia under the reign of King Ahasuerus. The King needs a queen, in which Esther were chosen to his queen (per Mordechai's instructions to conceal her Jewish identity). Later, Mordechai helped in foiling the assassination attemp on the king. After the king's life was saved, Haman is appointed as the king's highest adviser, and orders that everyone to bow down to him. Mordechai refused to bow down to Haman, which upsets him to the point he will make plans to have Mordechai and the Jews to be slaughtered. Haman goes to the King to have an order carried out for the rights to commit genocide of the Jews throughout the kingdom. Learning about this, Mordechai urged Esther to tell about this to the king and revealed her Jewish origin. Although, there is a rule where if someone goes to the king without being summoned, death will befalls those who violate. But, she would give it a try - she asked for the entire Jews to gathered in Susa, and the people along with Mordechai and her to fast and pray for three days before meeting with the King. After that, Esther meets up with the King, where she swooned and fainted. The King quickly cared for her, and demanded her wish if she had any. Esther answered that she would reveal her wish in a banquet with the king and Haman later. Haman, having already built the gallows at his home intended for Mordechai, meets up with the King to discuss about the King's reward for the person who is favored by the King. Haman though that he finally got what he wished for, but instead he was ordered to treat Mordechai handsomely for the entire day. After that, Haman goes into the banquet that had been set up for him and both King Ahasuerus and Queen Esther. The King would repeat his offer to Esther, who revealed that her wish is to protect her life and her people. Hearing about this, the King was shocked and demanded her to reveal who wishes for ill to her and her people. With confidence, Esther denounced Haman in front of the King. King Ahasuerus was furious, known that he had been played by Haman, and goes to garden to think about the situation. Haman pleaded for mercy from Esther, but she refused to do so. The insistence of it were heard by the King, who saw it as Haman is attacking Esther. The King becomes more furious than ever, and have the guards seized him. One of the guards tell that Haman had prepared the gallows at his home, so the King ordered Haman to be hanged there. With him gone, Mordechai is appointed as the king's adviser after hearing from Esther that he is her uncle. With both Esther and Mordechai are in the royal court, they both can save the Jews from the inside.
  • Hannah = Hannah is one of the two wives of Elkanah. Elkanah loved her very much, but sadly she is barren, unlike his other wife Peninnah who have conceived children. Every year, Elkanah would do a sacrifice at the Shiloh sanctuary, and give Peninnah and her children while Hannah double the portions. One day, Hannah went to the Tabernacle to pray with great weeping to Eli the High Priest. She only demanded one thing: a child of her own. She promised that when that child was born, she would dedicated him to God. Her prayers eventually are answered - Hannah gave birth to a son named Samuel, named because she asked God for him. Samuel is raised and educated in Shiloh sanctuary, learning how to serve God, and he became the last of the Judges.
• Queen of Diamonds - Batshebha/Shulamite
  • Batsheba = Batsheba is the mistress of King David's elite soldier Uriah the Hittie. Her beauty is so catching that it catches the attention of David. It was one day, when the king was walking on the balcony, he spotted Batsheba bathing. David can't hold back his temptation as he seduced the woman and make love with her, getting her pregnant. To conceal this indicency, King David urged Uriah to make love with Batsheba as if it was Uriah that got her pregnant. But the soldier refused to do so. Because of that refusal, King David then ordered his general Joab to assign Uriah on the front lines in hopes of him getting killed in the war. It worked, and Batsheba becomes a widow, so David gets to married her. This action despised God so much that He sent Prophet Nathan to confront the king. After telling a parable about a rich man taking away a poor man's only ewe away, with David gets excited with rage from it, Nathan quickly relate that rich man as the king himself. Realizing his sin, David asked for repetance and regretful of his sin. As punishment from God, David's firstborn suffered a fatal illness and died. We have to remember, no matter how great a king is, he is still human. Although, a man's regret of sin and begs for forgiveness is a sign that he is willing to change. His successor later is a sign that God had forgiven David.
  • Shulamite = Shulamite is the woman mentioned within the verses in the Songs of Songs (also known as the Songs of Solomon). Shulamite comes from Shulam, and she used to dressed with ornate clothings adorned with jewerlies. She has a darker skin because of sun exposure while working tirelessly on the fields. The Song of Songs is a series of verses containing King Solomon's composition of love poetries as a sign of affection and friendship with the woman. This book eventually be used during the wedding ceremony in church.
• King of Spades - Moses/Aaron
  • Moses = Moses, the savior of the Israelites from the slavery in Egypt. In the beginning, he was saved by his parents by putting him in a basket floating on the River Nile when he was a baby. He was rescued by the Pharaoh's daughter and raised as the Prince of Egypt. One day, he killed the Pharaoh's guard after witnessing the torture of an eldery Jew at the construction site, and Moses ran away out to the desert and reached Midian. Moses married with Zipporah, learned of his Jewish identity. At Mount Horeb, God comes to him in form of a burning tree. God have appointed him to be the delivered of Israelites from Egypt, as he want the suffering to end for them. Moses is accompanied by Aaron to confront Pharaoh Ramses. At the palace court, Moses revealed the power of God by turning his wooden staff into a live serpent, but that still doesn't convince him to let the Israelites go. Because of this, God has sent 10 plagues to devestated Egypt, with the last plague being the worst of all. After the nation destroyed by the plagues, the Pharaoh finally relents to let the people go. Moses and Aaron, with their sister Miriam, led the people across the vast harsh land to travel to the Promised Land, with God guided and protected them along the way. At one point in the journey, God divided the Red Sea into two to create a path for them to cross, and closes on the approaching Egyptians who seek to kill them. At Mount Sinai, he received the 10 Commandments, a set of rules stated by God written on stone tablets. Since then, Moses has set up laws on how to worship God, and they travel to the Promised Land of Canaan for 40 years long.
  • Aaron = Aaron is the brother of Moses. He accompanied Moses when he has to confront the Pharaoh regarding of setting the Israelites free from slavery in Egypt. After crossing the Red Sea, Aaron was tasked to watched for the people while Moses climbed up to Mount Sinai. The people then complained on how long Moses is up there, and they believed their travels were a sham and they could have better lives in Egypt even though they are under slavery. They insisted of making the Golden Calf for them to worship. Aaron was againsts it at first, but finally he had to follow their demand before riot started. As Moses come down with the 10 Commandments on his hands, he was really furious, and he threw those tablets onto the golden idol to destroyed it. Some time later, Moses retrieved another stone tablets from Mount Sinai, and God had instructed him to create a vessel to store the tablets - a golden casket with two angels bowing their wings on the lid, the Ark of the Covenant. Then, God had set up rules on the culture and traditions in worshiping God, such as how to present offering, what to do and not to do, and the specific roles for the people. Aaron was appointed to be the High Priest, who will guide for the religious acts in the group. These laws were the basis of the Israelites to pray and worship God back during the Old Testament.
• King of Hearts - Samuel/Joshua
  • Samuel = Samuel is the last Judge in Israel. He was born through Hannah, his mother who asked God for a child and given the child to serve God in return. The people were tired of living like what they are: having Judges to lead them with God as their "invisible" king - they wanted a king that they can see and who will watched over them. At first, Samuel was relunctant to do it, but as God had finally permitted (because He, as well, grew tired of hearing the same complains from the people), Samuel would find them a king for them. He annoited a man Saul, to be the first king of Israel, starting the beginning of monarchy in Israel. For two years, King Saul leads the people, until one day, he disobeyed an order from Samuel. With this, the prophet said that God had chosen a new king, devastating him. In the Jesse's household, Samuel found David and annoited him as the new king of Israel.
  • Joshua = Joshua is the successor of Moses to lead the people of Israel (Moses died after seeing the Promised Land from Mount Nebo). The land of Canaan is conquered by the enemies. Joshua set his eyes onto Jericho, the city he intended to claim on the conquest to seize the land. He sent two of his spies to scout the city of Jericho. Rahab, the harlot living in the city, helped out the spies to hide them from the guards of the city. Because of her help, the spies promised her that she and her family will be saved during the siege of Jericho. With the spies' mission is complete, Joshue led an attack to the city. First, they crossed the River Jordan leaded by the High Priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant, splitting the river to create a path for them to cross. The plan of the attack to the city is laid out by God: They must walk around the walls carrying the Ark once daily for six days, but on the seventh day, they walked around with the Ark for seven times, accompanied with the blow of the ram horns and the loud shoutings from the people. With that plan, the Walls of Jericho crumbled down, and Joshue led the people to siege the town. They eventually fulfiled their part of the bargain by sparing Rahab and her family.
• King of Clubs - David/Saul
  • Saul - Saul is the very first king of Israel. He had led the kingdom over many victories against the enemies. Though one day, he had disobeyed Prophet Samuel's order of waiting for him to do the rites before the war - doing the rites early as the soldiers were restless. With that, prophet Samuel rejected him as a King, prophecised that the kingdom will be taken away from him like how Saul ripped part of Samuel's robe. Since then, Saul is haunted, and then appointed David as his harpist. During the war with the Philistines, none of the soldiers except for David challenged the giant soldier Goliath. After that momentous victory, David joined up the battles against the enemies, and he was praised more by the people more than Saul. Saul filled with rage and jealousy after realizing that David will take him over. During one music session, Saul tried to kill David by throwing a spear to him. After that event, Saul held a manhunt againtst David to secure his position. David had been avoiding him for some time, until one night, he managed to get into Saul's camp, intended to murder him for all the troubles he caused to David. But, David knew that is not what God had wanted, so instead of killing him, he took the clay jar and the spear and he announced it outside of how the soldier not being vigilant to protect the king. After that, both of them never see each other again. Saul approached a witch for her service to call out to Samuel. His spirit told him that God had given the kingdom to David, and Saul will die during the battle. And it indeed happened, Saul and his son Jonathan died.
  • David = David, the mighty king of Israel who ever lived. In the beginning, he was simply a shepherd's boy and the youngest one in Jesse's household. But God found the goodness in his heart, so prophet Samuel annoited him as King. During the battle with the Philistines, David volunteered to face the giant soldier Goliath, without heavy protective armors and only equiped with a simple sling. Being a faithful young man, he prayed to God for a good deadly aim as he slings the rock towards the giant. The rock hits the critical point and Goliath is knocked down. The war is won, and later David lead to more battles won for the Israel. His journey to be king is a struggling one, as he have to get away from Saul who is jealous of his reputation. After Saul died, David finally becomes a king. Although being a mighty king, he is still human. The day where he witness a beautiful woman bathing is where he finally commited sin. For his sin, the firstborn will fall ill and die, and the next one (named Absalom) swore vengeance and rebel against his own father. David repent for his sin and regret of his actions, as he continued praying for God's mercy and protection. To that end, God protected him as Absalom was stuck to the tree by his hair and executed by his general Joab. David will be succeeded by his other son named Solomon.
• King of Diamonds - Solomon/Nehemiah
  • Solomon = Solomon is the son of David. He succeeded as king, and will follow God's way. One night, God came to him to grant Solomon one wish. Rather than wishing for immense wealth or great power, Solomon simply ask for wisdom. Indeed, his wisdom leaded him to become even more successful king in Israel's monarchy. One of the most famous case involving judgement over a baby between two mothers - Solomon can see from each of the mother's reaction to determine whose mother the baby is from. His popularity had spread across other nations, that he got visited by the royalties from different countries. One of them is Queen Sheba. The queen wanted to challenge his wisdom, in which Solomon can solve it. She gave him loads of gifts, and in return, Solomon gave her with even more gifts! King Solomon is also responsible for making a luxurious temple dedicated to God, all laden with luxurious golds and jewerlies. He might be the wealthiest king in history, thanks to his wisdom. But, that fame doesn't last long. With every visits from different nations, Solomon witness beautiful maidens, and fall for their beauty then influenced by their practice of worshiping idols. Solomon had commited sin with that, and God confronted him that night, telling him that Israel will be split into two: the northern region of Israel and southern region of Judah.
  • Nehemiah = Nehemiah is the cup-bearer to King Artaxerxes I in Persia. One day, his brother Hanninah visited him to meet with Nehemiah to tell him the bad news: Jerusalem was devastated and the Walls that meant to protect the city had been destroyed. Crying over the news, he prayed to God that night to wish to return to Jerusalem to fix the damage done over the city. The next day, the king noticed that Nehemiah and asked what troubled him, and Nehemiah finally tell the king that he wishes to return to Jerusalem to build up the wall of that city. The king permits him, granting him with provisions and letter to support his mission. In Jerusalme, Nehemiah leaded the project of rebuilding the city's walls. Learning about this project, the enemies try to foil that plans. But, God had protected Nehemiah and the other Israelites in rebuilding the walls, so Nehemiah is able to defend from invading enemies. While the people worked, they are equipped with weapon on one hand, and the building tool on the other. Within 52 days, the Walls of Jerusalem had been completed. Nehemiah's leadership had saved the city.

Jokers
The Jokers simply presenting the minor events happening during the "Law" Period.

• Joker A - The Golden Calf = Moses led the people of Israel across the vast desert to reach the Promised Land. They made a stop at Mount Sinai, where Moses would climb the mountain and obtained the 10 Commandments. While waiting, the people grew restless, so they demanded Aaron to build them the Golden Calf idol. The people worshipped it with joy and grace. As Moses came down with the tablets, he became furious of what he saw, so he threw the tablets toward the idol to destroys it.
• Joker B - Pharaoh Ramses = Pharaoh Ramses led Egypt during the slavery of the Hebrews in Egypt. Under his rule, the people suffered a lot of hard work to build monuments and temples. Once an adoptive brother to Moses, now become bitter enemy. He was a hard head as he keeps on refusing Moses' plead to release the Israelites. That attitude had paid the price, as God sent 10 plagues to devestated Egypt, with the last one take a deep toll on him.

[laitostarr777]

Gospel
Gospel covers the new chapter in the story of Christianity. The story covers the life journey of Jesus Christ, from his birth to his death and eventually resurrection. Jesus is the One promised by God back years ago when prophecized by the prophets, and He will carry the sin of humankind and He does holy services on earth: performing miracles, teaches about kindness and worshiping, and give out parables. This story is covered through the first four books in New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Then, after Jesus is raised to the Heaven, His Disciples continued his service and spread Christianity across the world and make the first church, and also recruiting more disciples in the cause during the Pentecost period. These are told in Acts and the rest of the books in New Testament (Corinthians, Rome, Titus, Galatia, etc - those are name of the cities in which the disciples give out teachings to). It is an amazing journey to learn about.
Aces
The Aces in "Gospel" shows the most important events throughout Jesus' ministry.

• Ace of Spades - The Empty Tomb; Jesus's body is buried in a tomb, wrapped in linen embalmed with fragrance and closed with a circular stone. Three days after Jesus is buried, the woman who were visiting the tomb are shocked to find the tomb is wide open, and Jesus is nowhere to be found. The Angels come to tell them that Jesus has risen from the dead, and that they should tell this news to others. Jesus's ressurection is celebrated on Easter Day.
• Ace of Hearts - Crucifixion; Crucifixion is a method of severe punishment to the convicteds during that time. Jesus was condemed to it by the people - nailed to the cross and shown to the people for the show. Jesus is crucifixed on Valley of Golgotha, along with two thieves: Gestas the inpenitent thief and Dismas the penitent thief. On Jesus's cross, there is a board that said: INRI - a Latin abbreviation meaning "This is the King of the Jews". It was a horrifying sight for the disciples and followers. This event was celebrated on Good Friday.
• Ace of Clubs - The Last Supper; One night, Jesus gathered His 12 disciples: Simon Peter - Andrew, his brother - James and John, sons of Zebedee - Philip - Bartholomew - Matthew - Thomas - James, son of Alpheus - Simon the Zealot - Thaddeus - Judas Iscariot; for the last supper in room. It was Passover, and the meal on the table are loaves of bread and a bottle of wine. Jesus blessed the meal, symbolizes them as the Body and Blood of Christ, then share them among the disciples. During the supper, Jesus predicts that one of the disciples will betray Him. He also have a prediction to Simon Peter: before the rooster cowls the next morning, Simon will disowned Him for three times. In John's account, Jesus is said to washed His disciple's feet, to signify that Master need to serve the Disciples. This event is celebrated on Maundy/Holy Thursday. This scene was painted by legendary painter Leonardo da Vinci, and that painting and composition had become part of a pop culture.
• Ace of Diamonds - Baptism; Baptism is a sacramental ritual done by marking the recipient with water and admitting him/her to the Christian community. It is an oath that said you believed in God. Every new born babies have to go through this ritual to admitted them to the Christians. Jesus first begin his ministry by having a baptism. He goes to the River Jordan, where John the Baptist have been baptizing the many people gathered that time. John felt to be unworthy to baptist Him, although Jesus insists that it had to be done. After the baptism, a white dove landed on Jesus's shoulder, and there is a voice coming from the Heavens: "This is my beloved Son, to whom I am well pleased!". This is the Holy Trinity in Christianity: Father God Almight, Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

Courts
The courts for "Gospel" shows a variety of characters from the story of Jesus's ministry on Earth and during the Pentecost with the Disciples journey to spread His teachings. It is also not limited to showing the villains. Each court cards present two character, with their names on the side borders.

• Jack of Spades - Stephen/Nicodemus
  • Stephen = After Jesus is raised to the Heaven, His disciples continues to spread the joyful messages and performed miracles in the name of God. Although, there are some people who are not willing to accept those teachings and will have those preachers to be punished in any ways. Persistence will lead to execution. Some of the disciples and followers decide that they are willing to die for their cause. We called them "martyr". The first martyr recorded is Stephen. He was preaching the words of God before he got sentenced to death by stones throwing. As the people throw stones at him, he prayed and looked at the sky, calling to God to take his life. With that, Stephen dies for his cause to spread the words of God.
  • Nicodemus = Nicodemus is a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. He comes to visit Jesus at night to discuss about one of Jesus's teachings. Both discussed about what it means to be "born again". It's not about being returned back to the mother's womb, it is about being reborn as a spirit. Those who believe in God will eventually be born again. The explanation about it gives a clear insight to the Pharisee.
• Jack of Hearts - Herod the Great/Herod Agrippa II
  • Herod the Great = Three Wise Men from the East spots the Star of Betlehem and decided to go where the Star shines. They made a stop at the castle of King Herod the Great. The Wise Men tell him that he is visitting "King of all Kings". Hearing this, he allowed the three men to go to meet that king and they should report back him, so he can also see him. The Wise Men found the newborn Jesus in the manger - they gifted him gold, myrhh, and frankincense. However, the Wise Men never come back to meet with Herod as they have a dream that King Herod will do something bad to the baby, fleeing to another direction. With rage, King Herod the Great ordered the execution of all Jewish boys. God managed to warn Joseph about this, and he carried his wife Mary and the baby to flee to Egypt and return once the situation had settled.
  • Herod Agrippa II = Herod Agrippa II is a Jewish king of Judea during the time when Paul is spreading the teachings of God. One time, Paul got into an incident where he was accused of desecrating a religious temple. Paul made a defense of himself in front of Herod Agrippa II that he did nothing wrong at all. Feeling sympathy over Paul, after hearing some of the words Paul preached, and his high connections with the Roman authority, the King found Paul not guilty of his charges and to be let go.
• Jack of Clubs - Simon of Cyrene/Barabbas
  • Simon of Cyrene = Jesus of Nazareth is condemed to be crucified up on the hills called Golgotha. The travel there is nothing short of pleasant - Jesus is wearing a crown of thorns as He had to carry the cross through the city alleys (called Via Dolorosa) while getting whipped by Roman soldiers. In midway the journey, Jesus is completely exhausted and he can't handle of the cross alone. As a slight act of mercy, the soldier allows one person to help Jesus carry the cross. They called out to a man named Simon of Cyrene. As he carried the cross besides Jesus, Simon looked deep into His eye, and he knew... Jesus had done nothing wrong and He doesn't deserve this. Though, Jesus looked him and wanted to tell him that everything is going to be okay.
  • Barabbas = Barabbas is a notorious criminal at that time. He was captured and imprisoned for a very long time. Coincidentally, Jesus was captured and brought up to court and to be presented to the governor. In Passover tradition, the governor allowed one prisoner to be set free. The governor then presented both Jesus and Barabbas in front of the crowd, then asked who shall be free. Without second thoughts, the people chooses Barabbas, and demand that Jesus to be crucified. The governor found nothing wrong on Jesus, but he had no choice but to follow the people's demands. Just like that, Barabbas is a free man.
• Jack of Diamonds - Judas Iscariot/Chief Priests
  • Judas Iscariot = Judas Iscariot is one of the 12 Disciples appointed by Jesus. He eventually is the one who will betray Jesus to the high priests. Judas is paid 30 pieces of silver by the priests for the job to identify Jesus when they planned to ambush Him in the garden of Gethsemane. With a simple kiss, Judas had betrayed the Son of God. Jesus is captured, interrogated, tortured, and then finally be condemed to be crucified. Watching all of these, Judas felt remorse and regret. He quickly pleads to the priests to take the money back, but they reject the coins as it is now becoming blood money. Completely feel sorry for himself, Judas Iscariot hanged himself.
  • Chief Priests = These chief priests are the religious leaders heralding from Sanhedrin. They would lead religious rites and oversees cultural traditions. They make sure that people would behave accordingly to the Old Laws. Although, the arrival of Jesus was meant to update on those Old Laws, and introduces the New Laws - such as no more animal sacrifice or removing the limits of one to offer donations. Jesus's teachings were considered blasphemy in their eyes, but people have become more interested in His teachings. They hate Him, thus they plan to capture Him. They employ Judas Iscariot as the mole the very last minutes, and they ambushed Him in the Garden with soldiers.
• Queen of Spades - Mary/Mary Magdelene
  • Mary = Mary is a virgin who was destined to be the mother of Jesus. One day, the angel Gabriel comes to visit Mary to tell her that she will conceived a son who will be named Jesus. She with her husband Joseph go to Bethlehem and settled in a manger, where the holy baby is born there. Baby Jesus is visited by the shepherds and the Three Magis, becoming witnesses of the arrival of the Savior. This event is celebrated as Christmas. Mary raised Jesus as a carpenter, until he is baptized and began his holy ministry. Mary followed Him throughout his journey and becoming the witness of Jesus's death on the cross and His ressurection. Some times later after Jesus was raised to Heaven and the Holy Spirit descents upon the Disciples, Mary is annoited as the Holy Woman. Mary eventually raised to Heaven and crowned, becoming the Queen of Paradise. She is also worshipped alongside Jesus in Catholicsm, regarded as the Mother of all Disciples.
  • Mary Magdelene = No one have concrete information regarding of who is Mary Magdelene. She was only mentioned for a few times in the Bible, as the woman who is a loyal disciple to Jesus and witness the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. She was believed to be the first woman who saw Jesus had been ressurected. Through scripture analysis and research, Mary Magdelene comes from the city of Magdala and she was a prostitute. She came to Jesus seeking for repentance and forgiveness. This woman played a role in the history of the religion in Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code: Mary is said to be the real Holy Grail, and she was married with Jesus and conceived a child during His crucifixion - the Order of Priory was formed to protect the lineage while the Opus Dei seeks to kill this descentant to maintain Vatican's validity.
• Queen of Hearts - Martha/Joanna
  • Martha = Martha is a woman living in Bethany, a personal friend of Jesus Christ. She and her sister Mary of Bethany established a relationship with Him during Jesus's time in Bethany. One day, while hosting for Jesus and His disciples, Martha found her sister Mary just sitting in the backyard listening to Jesus. She was frustrated, but Jesus learned that she worried she didn't serve well enough, reminding her that a simple preparation is more than enough for Him. Some time later, her brother Lazarus died - Jesus arrived too late to heal him from his illness. Martha firmly believed that Jesus is the Messiah, as Jesus told her that whoever believed in Him shall live and whoever lives by believing in Him will never die. Her faith is rewarded as she witness the resurrection of Lazarus right in front of her eyes. Another time when she hosted Jesus and His disciples, Martha's sister, Mary applied expensive perfume to Jesus's feet.
  • Joanna = Joanna is the wife of Chuza and steward to Herod Antipas. She is believed to cured of evil spirits before decide to join Jesus. Joanna is the first woman who saw the tomb of Jesus Christ was wide open.
• Queen of Clubs - Priscilla/Anna
  • Priscilla = Priscilla is a beautiful wife of Aquilla. The couple were travelling evangelists. They both met with Paul in Corinth, and from there they travel throughout to deliver the message and teachings of Jesus Christ. They were important figures that helped out in building tents for the people and build up the foundations of early Christian churches. They are mentioned at least six times in New Testament - such a dynamic duo they are.
  • Anna = A few days after Jesus is born, Mary and Joseph bring the baby to the Temple of Jerusalem to be blessed. While there, two elderies approached them. The first one being Simeon, a man who will never die until he saw Jesus. He embraced the baby as he hold Him on his ends, and finally can rest in peace soon. The second one being Anna, the old prophetess. She recognized Jesus as God's deliverence, He who will save humankind from Sin and making the world a better place.
• Queen of Diamonds - Lydia/Tabitha
  • Lydia = Lydia lived in Thyatira, Philippi. She is the merchant of expensive purple cloth, which at that time, it's the hardest material to be produced. Even though she is not Jewish, she believed in God, and she often gathered her other women friends to pray. Meanwhile, Paul received a dream that he along with his companions need to go to Macedonia. They stopped at Philippi first, at Thyatira, where Lydia lived. Paul happened to stumbled upon her praying to God, and he can't help but to reached to her and told her about Jesus Christ. Paul and his companions baptized Lydia and her friends and family. Lydia allows Paul and his companions to stay in her home to let them rest and continue the journey the next day. Lydia had just formed the first Church in Europe.
  • Tabitha = Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, was a woman well known for her good works and acts of charity. She was a generous person who sewed for others and gave to the needy. She lived in the city of Joppa and she was a follower of Jesus Christ. But, one day, she became sick and died. Her friends called for Peter to come and see her. He asked for the friends to leave them both alone for a while. Peter knelt and plrayed, then told Tabitha to stand. Miraclously, she opened her eyes and sat up. From this miracle, many people in Joppa believed in Jesus Christ.
• King of Spades - Peter/John
  • Peter = Initially called Simon Peter, Peter is one of Jesus's 12 disciples. He was the first one in the group and he loved Jesus as one loved his master. He was a fisherman (along with the other three disciples) before he got into Jesus's calling - Jesus created a miracle to fill a ton of fishes in a net. Peter had served His Master very well, although one time when He was captured by the chief priests, he denied of knowing Jesus for three times as the rooster cowls, fulfilling Jesus's prophecy that Peter will disown Him out of fear. Peter eventually repent of his actions, and was excited to hear that Jesus had risen from the dead, just like He said it would happened. Peter leaded the remainin disciples to spread the words of God across the nations and build up the early churches. Peter's demise was crucified for his cause. Although Peter demanded that he can't be crucified as same manner of Jesus, instead Peter is crucified upside down. This upside down cross is called "The Cross of St. Peter". In other meaning, the upside down cross can mean the presence of evil entities and the main cross of Satanic church.
  • John = John is the son of Zebedee and one of Jesus's 12 disciples. He is the most loved disciple among the group. He is known as the apostle of love, because of his dedication to the worshipping God and love his Master. After Jesus ascended to Heaven and the Holy Spirit descent upon them, John go around the continent to spread the good message about Jesus. Throughout the period, John outlived all of the remaining disciples - becoming the last man standing, exiled in the island of Patmos. Right there, he had received the visions and prophecies of yet to come.
• King of Hearts - John the Baptist/James
  • John the Baptist = One day, Zechariah received the words from angel Gabriel that his old wife Elizabeth will conceive a son. Because he doesn't believe, his voice was silenced and became a mute until the son was born. Elizabeth cried with joy that she finally got a son. The son is named John the Baptist. John learned the words of God, and he preached about the coming Messiah on earth. He was the forerunner of Jesus, as he baptized people in the River Jordan. At that moment, he baptized Jesus Christ. Sadly, soon after that, he was arrested for speaking againsts King Herod Antipas and later executed by beheading.
  • James = James is said to be Jesus's sibling - it's His brother. Although other accounts said that James might be one of the 12 Disciples named James, son of Alpheus. He followed Jesus throughout His ministry on earth and he witness His ascension to Heaven after He rises from the dead. During the Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descents onto the disciples, and they began to spread the words of God and Jesus. James eventually become the head of the Jerusalem church.
• King of Clubs - Paul/Timothy
  • Paul = He used to be named Saul, he was a Pharisee and the persecutor of early disciples of Jesus. During his journey from Jerusalem to Damascus on a mission to arrest the escaping disciples, the risen Christ appeared to him in a great bright light. The light is so bright that it blinded his eyes. Saul was blinded for three days until his eyes were restored by Ananias. After that healing, Saul changed his name to Paul, and he began his conquest to peach about Jesus of Nazareth being the Jewish Messiah and the Son of God. He had gathered many people to follow for his cause, and have travelled across nations to spread the joyful message. Most of the letter written in New Testament came from Paul.
  • Timothy = Timothy becomes the disciple of Paul when they both first met in Corinth. He travelled alongside with Silas. He was under guidance of Paul, co-written some of the letters in New Testament. He became the first Christian bishop of Ephesus. But sadly, like every other disciples, there were always be people who won't accept these teachings. Timothy becomes a martyr when people condemned him to be stoned to death.
• King of Diamonds - Barnabas/Apollos
  • Barnabas = His real name was Joseph. He was a Levite coming from the Miditerranean island of Cyprus. He joined Paul on the mission to spread the story of Jesus of Nazareth and the Son of God. As he was doing his mission, he was seen to love to encourage other. Because of that, the disciples gave him a nickname - Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement". Barnabas supported the early church by selling his piece of land and brought the money for donations and support. Barnabas had been travelling to the ancient world where the people still believed in worshipping other gods - he helped them tranformed into fellow Christians. He is a very influential disciple during his time.
  • Apollos = Apollos is a friend to Paul heralding from Alexandria, Egypt. He became the important leader of the early Church. He learned great knowledge and share them to the people, mostly about who is Jesus of Nazareth, telling about His ministry on earth, the miracle of his ressurection and the beautiful scene of His ascension to Heaven. He founded the Corinthian church, helped growing the Christian community in Corinth. He also have met with Priscilla and Aquilla, together they also do good deeds to others.

Jokers
The Jokers in "Gospel" shows the oppositions of the ministry. They are the people who are against Jesus in some way.

• Joker A - Caiaphas = Caiaphas is the chief of all the chief priests in Jerusalem. He along with the other priests are who keep order around and making sure people do the right ways in worshiping and rituals. But, the arrival of Jesus Christ and his ministry threatened his reputation and validity. Because he had connections with the Roman soldiers, he planned for Jesus's capture in the Garden of Gethsemane. When Jesus is put to trial, Caiaphas marked Him for the act of blasphemy and should be severly punished. He thought he had won, knowing that Jesus, the proclaimed "King of the Jews", is crucified. But suddenly, as soon as Jesus is taken back by God, an earthquake shook the earth, splitting the Tabernacle in half, ripping the veil of the Holy of Holies from top to bottom. Caiaphas was devestated over this destruction.
• Joker B - Pontius Pilate = Pilate is the governor of Judea under the orders of Emperor Tiberius. He was the authoritarian figure at that time in that region. Although, he was famous because of the trial against Jesus Christ. He believed that Jesus is innocent, althought he had to do the Passover tradition first: setting one person free. The people demanded Barabbas to be free, and condemning Jesus to go through crucifixition. Pilate pleaded to the people that he had found no offenses made from Jesus Christ - He is innocent. But the people keeps on demanding Jesus to be crucified. Being reluctant about this, Pilate is forced to gave the death sentence to Jesus. Pilate washed his hands in front of the crowd, telling them that any blood and tears spilled from Jesus won't be his responsibility.

[GandalfPC]

[laitostarr777]

Revelation
Revelation is the final chapter in the Bible. It is the apocalyptoc vision of Jesus given to John, the last surviving disciple from the original 12 Disciples who is on exile at the island of Patmos. It is packed with a lot of detailed descriptions on how the world is going to end and how it will be rebuilt into a perfect Paradise free of evil and corruption. It is both fantastic and terrible events at the end of time. The last message at the end of the Book promised that God will always be with them, forever for eternity. The story of Revelation makes a perfect theme for playing cards artwork, i.e. Thirdway Industries had done this theme with Apocalisse and Apoteosi deck. Due to the incredible details written in this book, all of the faces will feature a full-art illustration.
Aces
The Aces in "Revelation" shows the beautiful elemements from the coming triumphant kingdom, a promise from God that the world will be renew into a better one.

• Ace of Spades - The Tree of Life

  On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit ever month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. ~ 22:2

  This is a big tree that will bear delicious fruits, twelve in every month. The leaves coming from the tree will be source to make herbs that healed the nations.
• Ace of Hearts - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb

  Then the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!" ~ 19:9

  A big hall with a lot of preparations - lavish dining tables with delicious meals and neat table setups. You are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.
• Ace of Clubs - The New Jerusalem

  Then I saw "a new heaven and a new earth..." I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bried beautifully dressed for her husband. ~ 21:1-2

  After the world is cleansed, the new Jerusalem is built on. This new city will have strong yet beautiful buildings and become the save haven to all Christians.
• Ace of Diamonds - River of Life

  Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. ~ 22:1-2

  This river flows a long way on the group, and its waters are pure crystal clear. It is fresh and it provides a lot of nourishments to the people.

Courts - Jacks
The Jacks in "Revelation" shows the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. It is a group of four entities that will devastate the earth. It is part of the popular culture theme, used in Marvel's X-Men and Now You See Me films. This theme can be seen on Thirdway Industries' Apocalisse and Riffle Shuffle's 666 by Punk Magic.

• Jack of Spades - Death

  A pale horse! Its rider was named Death, and Hades was following close behind him. They were given power over a fourth of the earth to kill by sword, famine and plague. ~ 6:8

  The fourth horseman to gallop on earth. He is the rider of the pale green horse carrying a big scythe. He is allowed to bring death, claiming their souls. He is mostly depicted as the Grim Reaper, the master of Death.
• Jack of Hearts - Famine

  I looked, and there before me was a black horse! Its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. ~ 6:5

  The third horseman to gallop on earth. He is the rider of the black horse carrying a pair of scales. He is allowed to bring famine and hunger on the people, let them devastated by illness and desperation.
• Jack of Clubs - War

  Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make people kill each other. To him was given a large sword. ~ 6:4

  The second horseman to gallop on earth. He is the rider of the red horse carrying a big sword. He is allowed to remove the peace and cause endless war that allows humans to destroy each other.
• Jack of Diamonds - Conquest

  I looked, and there before me was a white horse! Its rider held a bow, and he was given a crown, and he rode out as a conqueror bent on conquest. ~ 6:2

  The first horseman to gallop on earth. He is the rider of the white horse carrying a bow. He will act as the Anti Christ on earth, providing false teachings that will entrapped people will false beliefs.

Courts - Queens
The Queens in "Revelation" shows the tormentors at the end of the world. They are basically the embodiments of evil that are allowed to lay waste and do horrifying things on earth. To avoid heated discussions and controversy, the figures shown on the cards will appear as shadowy sillhoutes.

• Queen of Spades - The Beast from the Sea

  I saw a beast coming out of the sea. It had ten horns and seven heads. with ten crowns on its horms, and on each head a blasphemous name. ~ 13:1

  This beast is summoned from the sea by Satan. Its appearance is the result of combining the beasts from Daniel's vision. In human form, he would appeared to looked like a fine gentleman, well-fit and slim as described by female demons. He would empower the world with political power and authority - a false leader over humankind.
• Queen of Hearts - The Beast from the Earth

  I saw a second beast, coming out of the earth. It had two horns like a lamb, but it spoke like a dragon. ~ 13:11

  This beast is summoned from the earth by Satan. Its appearance might looked like an innocent creature, but it is actually the amalgation of evil. In human form, he would appeared to looked like a religious prophet. This prophet might preach about good things and perform miracles, yet those are not come from God. It is the Anti Christ, the very individual every Christians afraid for.
• Queen of Clubs - Apollyon

  [The locusts] had a king over them the angel of the Abyss, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon (that is, Destroyer). ~ 9:11

  This is simply an embodiment of destruction upon earth. It is signified with the constant war and destructions that will shake every single civilization. In human form, he would appear to looked like a soldier. The soldier who wishes for war everytime, as its heart was filled with the desires of chaos and disorder. It is evil at its highest peak.
• Queen of Diamonds - The Harlot with the Dragon

  I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast... The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet... She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things. ~ 17:3-4

  She is representing Babylon, the nest of all evils. She would always be seen riding the big red dragon, going around to spread wickedness. But, eventually the lady would be engulped by the beast.

Courts - Kings
The Kings in "Revelation" shows the divine scenes of hope. Even with the earth are laid waste till there is nothing left standing, there are hopes that the world will be rebuilt into a better one. These divine scenes are shown by God that there are still hope for the Good.

• King of Spades - The Lion & The Lamb

  Then one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals." ~ 5:5

  The Lamb and the Lion, both animals that are sacred to symbolization of God. These animals would open the scroll and its seven seals.
• King of Hearts - Two Witnesses

  "I will appoint my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." They are "the two olive trees" and the two lampstands, and "they stand before the Lord." ~ 11:3-4

  These two witnesses will be appointed on earth. Their mission is to deliver the words of God, in the hopes of gathering more followers to God.
• King of Clubs - Three Angels

  And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. ~ 8:2

  These three angels would carry these objects: bowls, trumpets, and seals. They would opened up the seals one by one, pour water from the bowls one by one, and then blow the trumpets one by one.
• King of Diamonds - Throne & Elders

  Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. ~ 4:4

  A beautiful throne laden with royal seats. Therea are a total of 24 seats surrounding the most ornate royal throne on the middle. These 24 seats are seated by the elders, who wore the golden crown on their heads. It is probably representing all the saints and saintess and disciples and followers who have died for God.

Jokers
The Jokers in "Revelation" presents a diptych artwork of the most incredible moment in the story (but it is not a full diptych artwork as it is seperated with borders). It is an awe-inspiring scene.

• Joker A - Faithful and True = The main leader of the army marching from the Heaven. He might be God Himself who ride the white horse leading the legion.
• Joker B - Legion of Elders = Following the leader is an army of warriors riding more white horses. They are the elders who have joined the ranks in Heaven.
• Artwork - The Holy Siege

  I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war... He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean... "He will rule them with an iron scepter." He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. ~ 19:11-16

  It shows a scene of God marching from the Heaven leading the army of Good to take over the Earth and defeat Evil once and for all.

[EndersGame]

@laitostarr777: Fantastic work!

Thanks for sharing this. It really helps understand and appreciate what's on all the cards of each deck.

[Fud]

I feel like writing this post to tell the stories of all the characters and the chapters in the Bible to understand the artworks on this deck.

Wow, that was an incredible contribution, thank you so much for that!

(In case anyone was wondering, I didn't ask @laitostarr777 to do that!)

You have really nailed the symbology and significance of the stories behind these cards. Each design is not just a nice picture, it represents a real and powerful life or moment that was recorded to teach us something. It was my hope that these cards could (in part) help people remember and reflect on those lessons, and this background is absolutely necessary for doing that, thank you!

[laitostarr777]

I feel like writing this post to tell the stories of all the characters and the chapters in the Bible to understand the artworks on this deck.

Wow, that was an incredible contribution, thank you so much for that!

(In case anyone was wondering, I didn't ask @laitostarr777 to do that!)

You have really nailed the symbology and significance of the stories behind these cards. Each design is not just a nice picture, it represents a real and powerful life or moment that was recorded to teach us something. It was my hope that these cards could (in part) help people remember and reflect on those lessons, and this background is absolutely necessary for doing that, thank you!

You're welcomed, sir! I love stories, they always keep me hyped! I tend to write stuffs like this for any decks that has stories to tell! Most of the characters shown in this decks: most of them I have known very well, a few that I just seen when I looked to these decks (i.e. Priscilla, Lydia, Tabitha - I'm no expert when it comes to the story of Apostles ^^; ). It's fun to write these, sorry if it's too many words XD Hope I got every descriptions right!