X Wheel of Fortune

X Wheel of Fortune

Keywords: Abundance, Altering your present course, As the wheel turns so do our lives, Awareness increased, Becoming more aware, Being surprised at a turn of events, Change of fortune, Cycles, Destiny,Discovering your role & purpose, Expanding your outlook, Experiencing change, Faith, Fate, Feeling a sense of destiny, Finding opportunity in an accident, Finding your role & purpose, Gaining a greater perspective, Getting involved, Having a change in fortune, Having a personal vision, Life's tempo is speeding up, Movement, Moving in a different direction, Opening to luck, Opportunity, Personal vision, Rejoining the world of activity, Reversing,Seeing how everything connects, Seeing life's threads weave together, Seeing patterns & cycles, Sensing Fate's intercession, Stand back to view everything from a larger perspective, Surprising turn of events, Swept away by new developments, Turning point, Turning things around, Twists of Fate, Uncovering patterns & cycles, Unexpected encounters, Using what chance offers, What goes down must come up, Witnessing miracles

In Greek mythology, there are three women known as the Fates. They are responsible for spinning the destiny of each person at his or her birth. It is not surprising that the Fates are spinners because the wheel of fortune is an apt image for the elusive turns of a man's fate. This is the theme of Card 10.

The Wheel of Fortune is one of the few cards in the major arcana that does not have a human figure as a focal point. This is because its center is above the realm of man - in the higher levels (clouds) where the destinies of all are woven together in the tapestry of life. The tarot recognizes that each person sets his own path in life, but is also subject to the larger cycles that include him. We experience chance events that appear to be accidents although they are part of the great plan.

In readings, the Wheel of Fortune can indicate a vision or realization that strikes with great force. If you've been struggling with a problem or tough situation, this card can signal that you will find the answer if you stand back and view everything from a larger perspective.

The Wheel of Fortune also represents unexpected encounters and twists of fate. You can't predict surprises; you can only be aware when one is circling around. Indeed, Card 10 often suggests wheel-like actions - changes in direction, repeating cycles and rapid movement. When the energy of the Wheel arrives, you will feel life speed up. You are caught in a cyclone that may deposit you anywhere. "Round and round and round she goes, and where she stops, nobody knows."

A surge forward. A Chance to contemplate the nature of personal attachments and whether or not they are wise. The outcome of events may often contain elements that twist personal fortunes in unexpected directions.

The Wheel turns, the seasons change. Life moves in cycles. When the Wheel is down it can only go up! Change of fortune due to unexpected events.

Stay grounded. Work with the changes, don’t fight them and everything will go smoother.

If you always do what you’ve always done, you will always get the same result. Stop repeating bad patterns, repeat the good ones! Use unconventional concepts to progress.

Look for new opportunities to present themselves. Examine new ideas carefully before discarding them. Be prepared to adapt to different circumstances, and guard against a discordant environment.

Patience will be rewarded. Face change with courage.

Opposing Cards Possibilities:
Two of Swords - being stuck, at an impasse
Four of Swords - rest, quiet, slow pace
Four of Pentacles - blocked change, no movement
Seven of Pentacles - assessment before direction change

Reinforcing Cards Possibilities:
Eight of Wands - rapid pace, quick developments

IX Hermit

IX Hermit

Keywords: Accepting/offering wise counsel, Balance, Being helped/helping, Being introspective, Cautious approach, Centering, Concentrating less on the senses, Desiring a new direction, Desiring stillness, Destiny change, Discretion, Experiencing seclusion, Focusing inward,  Guidance given & received, Focus on your inner self, Foresight, Giving up distractions, Going to/being a mentor, Guidance, Introspection, Inward focus, Learning from/being a guru, Looking for answers within, , Looking for something, Mentors & Mentoring, Needing more, Needing solitude, Needing to be alone, Needing to understand, Period of reflection, Personal quest, Prudence, Quieting yourself, Receiving/giving guidance, Retreating into a private world, Searching, "Seek and ye shall find", Seeking greater understanding, Seeking solitude,Solitary quest, Solitude, Soul searching, Stability, Teacher & Teaching, Thinking things over, Truth seeking,Turning to/being a trusted teacher, Wanting the truth at all costs, Wisdom, Withdrawal, Withdrawing from the world

The traditional hermit is a crusty, bearded character who has withdrawn from the company of men to live a life of seclusion and hardship. Card 9 supports this understanding. The Hermit represents the desire to turn away from the getting and spending of society to focus on the inner world. He seeks answers within and knows that they will come only with quiet and solitude.

There comes a point in life when we begin to question the obvious. We sense that there is a deeper reality and begin to search for it. This is mainly a solitary quest because answers do not lie in the external world, but in ourselves. The hermit on Card 9 reminds us of Diogenes, the Greek ascetic who is said to have gone out with a lantern in hand to search for an honest man. Diogenes is a symbol of the search for truth that the Hermit hopes to uncover by stripping away all diversions.

In readings, the Hermit often suggests a need for time alone - a period of reflection when distractions are limited. In times of action and high energy, he stands for the still center that must be created for balance. He can also indicate that withdrawal or retreat is advised for the moment. In addition, the Hermit can represent seeking of all kinds, especially for deeper understanding or the truth of a situation. "Seek, and ye shall find," we have been told, and so the Hermit stands for guidance as well. We can receive help from wise teachers, and, in turn, help others as we progress.

You are your own teacher. Actions influenced by environment.

Analysis of hopes & wishes.

New knowledge needs to be assimilated, so take the necessary time to do so. Withdraw and reconsider your options through solitary introspection, finding inner peace and truth. Silence in the face of argument.

Use foresight to know your next move. Discretion in all things. Select associates wisely.

You have the power to change your own destiny. Strength acquired through experimentation. Stability leads to accomplishment. Foresight in humanitarian endeavors.

Knowledge from experience. A cautious psychological approach. Know-how supports your endeavors.

Blinded by outward appearances.

Reinforcing Dignities:

High Priestess – looking inward, withdrawing

Four or Cups – withdrawing, being introverted

Eight of Cups – searching for deeper meaning

Four of Swords – contemplating, being quiet

Seven of Swords – being alone, staying away from others

Opposing Dignities:

Lovers – being in a relationship, sexuality

World – involvement with the world

Two of Cups – making connections, partnerships

Three of Cups –being in a group, being with others

Nine of Cups – sensual pleasure

VIII Strength

VIII Strength

Keywords: Accepting others, Achieving soft control, Actions, Being a rock, Being able to influence, Being compassionate, Being kind, Being patient, Being tolerant, Calmness, Compassion, Conquer your emotions, Control through mastery and authority, Controlled power, Courage, Curb the urge to dictate, Dealing calmly with frustration, Demonstrating the strength of love, Don't despair or give up, Endure & triumph, Equilibrium, "Every action has an equal and opposite reaction", Feeling an unshakable resolve, Forbearance, Forgiving, Forgiving imperfection, Fortitude, Giving influence, Giving others lots of space, Governmental regulation,Guiding indirectly, Having a gallant spirit, Having character, Having stamina, Indirect guidance, Justice, Kindness, Knowing you can endure, "Like a rock", Maintain composure, Moderation in all things, Patient, Perseverance, Persuading, Persuasive, Power of love, Quiet determination, Re-evaluation, Refuse to get angry, Resolve, Self-Control, Showing forbearance, Showing strength,Soft control, Solid & reliable, Stamina, Strength, Taking heart despite setbacks, Taking time, Tempering force with benevolence, Tolerating, Understanding others are feeling, Unshakable resolve, Use your primal instincts, Working with, You can endure

Usually we think of strength in physical terms - big arms, powerful legs - but there is also inner strength. Inner strength comes from an exercise of the heart muscle. It is perseverance, courage, resolve and composure - qualities that help us endure when times are tough. In the past, a person with inner strength was commonly said to have character; he or she could be counted on in the darkest moments. The Strength card represents this energy of quiet determination. Strength is not a flashy card, but one that is solid and reliable.

Strength also represents patience and compassion. Getting angry is easy when events turn sour, but dealing calmly with frustration takes great strength. So does accepting others and forgiving mistakes. We need strength to mold situations softly. The Chariot controls through mastery and authority. This card is more subtle, even loving. Notice how the lion (itself a symbol of strength) is being guided and tamed by the woman's gentle hands.

Strength will appear in a reading when its qualities are needed. It can be a reminder not to despair or give up. You have the inner strength to endure and triumph. If you are pushing too hard, you need to withdraw for the moment and be patient. If other people or circumstances are driving you crazy, remember the strength that comes with love and forbearance. These will see you through the hardest moments.

Keep your wits around you when your character's strength is tested. Develop a spirit of give & take.

Be courageous. Use intestinal fortitude to take control. Worry attracts discordant events.

You have a lust for life. All work and no play can make you dull. Pleasure stimulates more productivity.

Use your instincts, the primal part of you, but don't let that aspect of you take over. Don’t allow things to hang in the balance.

Conquer your emotions. Curb the urge to dictate.

Re-evaluate the situation to see if the obstacles are real. Every action brings reaction.

Success demands organization, then you will realize satisfaction and joy. Conservativeness balanced by originality.

Intention is cause. Energy follows thought. Power without control is nothing. Moderation in all things.

Influence of a governmental regulation. Serious exchange with superiors.

**NOTE:
If the figure on the card is male and the lion is dead, then this is a card of brute strength.
If the figure on the card is female and the lion is alive, then this is a card of gentle strength.

Opposing Dignities:
Chariot - hard control
Eight of Cups - weariness, lack of strength
Six of Swords - being listless, lacking heart
Five of Pentacles - ill-health, weakness

Reinforcing Dignities:
Hanged Man - taking time, patience
Nine of Wands - stamina, strength to endure

VII Chariot

VII Chariot

Keywords: Achievement, Achieving hard control, Achieving victory, Anger reserved, Asserting yourself,Assertiveness, Assuming the reins of power, Authority, Beating the competition, Being determined to succeed, Being ego-focused, Choices, Coming out on top, Concentrating your energies, Crossroads, Curbing impulses, Delicacy, Determination, Discipline, Dominating, Ego-focused, Establishing an identity, Faith in yourself & your abilities, Feeling self-confident, Fine judgment, Firm & direct, Fixing on a goal, Focusing your intent, Getting your way, Goal oriented, Goals reached, "Grit", Hard control, Having faith in yourself, Healthy ego, Holding in anger, Knowing who you are, Letting nothing distract you, Looking out for your interests,Maintaining discipline, Mastering emotions, Movement, No distractions allowed, Power, Reaching your goal,Rise above temptation, Self-assertion, Self-confidence, Self-control, Self-mastery, Showing authority,Strength, Successful, Sustaining an effort, Travel, Using your will, Victory, Willpower, Winning out over others

Picture Julius Caesar riding his chariot triumphantly into Rome. He has defeated his enemies and conquered vast, new lands. This is the spirit of the Chariot. Card 7 represents the victories that are possible through willpower and self-mastery. A military image is appropriate for the Chariot because this card stands for the strengths associated with combat - discipline, grit, determination and assertiveness. 

The Chariot represents the positive aspects of the ego. A healthy ego is one that is strong and self-assured. It knows what it wants and how to get it. We can get annoyed at someone whose ego is too healthy, but we often turn to that person to lead us through difficult moments. We know he or she won't be wishy-washy.

In readings, the Chariot often appears when hard control is or could be in evidence. At its best, hard control is not brutal, but firm and direct. It is backed up by a strong will and great confidence. The Chariot can mean self-control or control of the environment. This card also represents victory. There are many types of wins; the Chariot's is of the win-lose type. Your success comes from beating the competition to become number one. Such moments are glorious in the right circumstances.

The Chariot travels a road opened in VI The Lovers. The central Self has to control the wild, unruly strength of the horse while using that very energy to move himself forward as speed. He needs to maintain balance, as the light chariot can be upset or made unstable at any moment. He is the eyes and guide of the horse, which symbolizes the mighty desire nature. The chariot is the symbol of the mind.

Good progress. Pay attention to the method of proceeding, rather than concentrating purely on the goal.

At a crossroads, which road do you take? Evaluate the choices and move forward.

Don't be the rash hero, move cautiously without pride to make a prompt and just decision. The situation will benefit from a philosophical approach and allow you to circumvent red tape.

Change yourself first before trying to alter the external environment. Success will be gained through the use of intelligence.

Caring & nurturing powers that are able to command others.

A vacation will bring release. Travel stimulates enthusiasm.

Movement from the current location. Change of residence or work is possible.

Opposing Dignities:
Strength - soft control
Hanged Man - accepting God's will, putting others first
Tower - defeat, humbling experience
Eight of Swords - confusion, self-doubt
Ten of Swords - powerless, in the pits, putting others first

Reinforcing Dignities:
Magician - using your will, concentrating
Two of Wands - being in authority, dominating
Six of Wands - triumph, self-confidence
Four of Pentacles - control
Nine of Pentacles - self-control, discipline

VI Lovers

VI Lovers

Keywords: Acknowledging kinship, Balance, Beauty, Being intimate, Being sexual, Beliefs, Blessings between two people, Bonds, Choices between right & wrong, Comfort & luxury, Connections, Desire, Determining values, Divine guidance, Emotional control, Ends do not justify the means, Establishing bonds, Establishing personal beliefs, Ethical & moral choices, Experiencing desire, Feeling a physical attraction, Feeling love,Figuring out where you stand, Finding out what you care about, Follow your own path, Forming a union or marriage, Friends, Getting closer, Harmony, Intimacy, Kinship, Look beneath the surface, Love making, Loving emotions, Making a connection, Making love, Making up your own mind, Moral crossroads, Opening to another, Passion, Personal beliefs, Physical attraction, Polarity, Questioning opinions, Refusing to let ends justify means, Relating to others, Relationships, Responding with passion, Romance, Seeking union, Setting your own standards & philosophy, Sexuality, Staying true to yourself, Struggling with temptation, Sympathizing with another, Sympathy, "Take the high road or low road?", Tapping inner energy, Temptations, Union or marriage, Values

The Lovers is one card that is easy to remember. Love and sex are riveting subjects, and, as you'd expect, this card represents both. The urge for union is powerful, and, in its highest form, takes us beyond ourselves. That is why an angel is blessing the bond between the man and woman on this card.

In readings, Card 6 often refers to a relationship that is based on deep love - the strongest force of all. The relationship may not be sexual, although it often is or could be. More generally, the Lovers can represent the attractive force that draws any two entities together in a relationship - whether people, ideas, events, movements or groups.

Card 6 can also stand for tough value choices and the questioning that goes with them. In some decks, the Lovers shows a man torn between two women - a virgin and a temptress. This rather old-fashioned triangle symbolizes the larger dilemmas we face when we are tempted between right and wrong.

The Lovers can indicate a moral or ethical crossroads - a decision point where you must choose between the high road or the low road. This card can also represent your personal beliefs because to make such a decision you must know where you stand. Following your own path can mean going against those who are urging you in a direction that is wrong for you, or not in the direction you have planned.

This card also evokes the picture of love and relationships. In any creative relationship the principle of the union of male and female and the birth of the new creation applies. A physical union gives birth to a new child; an emotional union gives birth to the soul of the relationship.

The Lovers card presents challenges that will be experienced that include the conflict and emotion of a relationship between lovers. It also includes the conflict between the thinking, analysing mind and the spiritual journey of acceptance and surrender. The archetype of The Lovers is "I think" and that is where the challenge will really be felt. The rational masculine principle employs the thinking mind and the sensitive feminine principle feels. It is to find a balance between the thinking and the feeling aspects of oneself.

Passion is a source of power, and power energizes. A lack of passion makes you weak. By loving life and the people around you, it will empower you.

Outside relationships. Friends surround you.

Choices to make, make them wisely & firmly, the outcome of which is of vital importance. Look beneath surface appearances.

Being faced with choices, at a crossroads. Stick to your resolutions by making firm a decision. Take a strong stand.

Seek spiritual values; control your emotions and select your path with care. Seek Divine guidance.

Intensity in relationships. Resist sensualism by stabilizing your emotions.

Good internal flow, effort well-placed, possibly following difficulties, a road opened up ahead.

Love of ease, comfort and/or luxury. A possible unfaithful affectionate nature.

Attract synchronicity into your life and be able to manifest that which you desire.

Opposing Dignities:
Hierophant - established beliefs
Hermit - being alone, not relating, less sexuality
Five of Cups - loss in relationships
Three of Swords - rejection, separation

Reinforcing Dignities:
Empress - sexual fulfillment, pleasure
Two of Cups - union, marriage, connection
Nine of Cups - sexual pleasure
Ten of Cups - family relationships, bonding
Ten of Pentacles - permanent unions, family ties

V Hierophant

V Hierophant

Except in rare cases, every human grows and develops within a culture. We learn by living with others. The Hierophant represents such official learning, especially in groups. A Hierophant is someone who interprets secret knowledge. On Card 5 we see a religious figure in a formal church setting. He is wearing the elaborate vestments of his office. His task is to bring the two initiates into the church so they can take up their appointed roles. 

Besides churches, there are schools, clubs, teams, companies, and societies. The Hierophant represents all of these because his realm is structured groups with rules and assigned roles. Such environments emphasize belief systems - facts, rules, procedures, and ritual. Members are rewarded for following conventions. They develop a group identity. The Hierophant is one of three cards that focuses on the group. (The 3 of Cups and the 3 of Pentacles are the others.

In readings, the Hierophant often represents learning with experts or knowledgeable teachers. This card also stands for institutions and their values. The Hierophant is a symbol of the need to conform to rules or fixed situations. His appearance in a reading can show that you are struggling with a force that is not innovative, free-spirited or individual. Groups can be enriching or stifling, depending on circumstances. Sometimes we need to follow a program or embrace tradition, other times, we need to trust ourselves. 

A link forged with higher perceptions. Potential knowledge. An external guide or helper. Help through inspiration.

Seek the guidance of another (a professional) who is more experienced in the situation.

Power behind the scenes.

Teachers or teachings entering one's life.

Formal education or belief systems, societal norms, traditions.

Triumph in legal matters.

Keywords: Adapting to the system, Belief systems, Committed to a cause, Conforming to rules or fixed situations, Conventional boundaries, Devoting energy to a group, Doing what's expected, Education, Embracing tradition, Finding out more, Fitting in, Following a discipline, Following convention, Following the rules, Getting an education, Going along with the program, Group identification, Increasing understanding, Informed, Institutionalized setting, Interpreting secret knowledge, Joining an organization, Knowing where to put your faith, Lack of free spiritedness, Lack of individuality, Lack of innovation, Learning a religious tradition, Legal matters, Loyalty to others, Official forms of learning, Part of the "Establishment", Pursuit of knowledge, Ritual & ceremony, Rules & regulations, Seeking a deeper meaning, Self trust, Sharing a cultural heritage, Stifled, Structured groups, Struggling with a stifling situation, Study & learning, Taking an orthodox approach, Teamwork, World view

Negative Dignities:
Fool - being "crazy" and unorthodox
Lovers - personal beliefs
Two of Wands - diverging from the crowd, being a pioneer
Seven of Swords - being a lone wolf

Positive Dignities:
Emperor - following rules
Three of Cups - focusing on the group
Three of Pentacles - working in a team or group
Eight of Pentacles - learning, studying
Ten of Pentacles - conforming, following rules, conservative

IV Emperor

IV Emperor

The figure of the Emperor says much about the essential qualities of this card. We see a stern, commanding figure seated on a stone-slab throne. His back is straight, and his eyes meet ours directly. He is confident of his complete authority to rule.

The Emperor represents structure, order and regulation - forces to balance the free-flowing, lavish abundance of the Empress. He advocates a four-square world where trains are on time, games are played by rules, and commanding officers are respected. In chaotic situations, the Emperor can indicate the need for organization. Loose ends should be tied up, and wayward elements, harnessed. In situations that are already over-controlled, he suggests the confining effect of those constraints.

The Emperor can represent an encounter with authority or the assumption of power and control. As the regulator, he is often associated with legal matters, disciplinary actions, and officialdom in all its forms. He can also stand for an individual father or archetypal Father in his role as guide, protector and provider. 

This card refers to a confident, intelligent, authoritarian who brings order and organization to chaos and is not one who is easily influenced. In a reading this may refer to one who the querent knows or it may be the querent themselves. Either way it is telling the querent that they must call upon their own confidence and courage when called into action and to be authoritative in their decision making, and make sure to use all of the available resources at hand.

Quite often this person is one who is associated with governmental or corporate entities. They are a very powerful & ambitious person who shoulders responsibility well.

Be strong and not easily influenced, but maintain an inner balance. By overcoming your own fears you build strength and stability through wisdom and this in turn will bring wealth (whether monetary, spiritual or mundane will be determined by the situation and the other cards in the spread).

To temper the intense power & strength of this person, they must learn to allow love to be their biggest emotion which will help with balance & authority, mind over matter, and experience & knowledge. 

Confidence & courage are called into action.

Be authoritative in your decisions, using your available resources.

Stability & authority through wisdom brings wealth.

Overcome any fears and a properly directed sex drive, to allow love to be your biggest emotion.

A respected person of authority, with a high level of intelligence who relies on their own intellect and is not easily influenced.

Versatile abilities play a role in the situation, just be sure to maintain inner balance.

To fight for truth and justice is a duty. 

Balance & authority, mind over matter, experience & knowledge are gained through experience. Winning with willpower. Mastery of materialism.

The struggle for personal independence. Moral power acquired through occult studies by using an investigative mind.

Energy, strength, good judgment and a willingness to "get to grips" with things in a bold and forthright manner through abundant creative energy. Triumph over obstacles utilizing confidence for proper development.

Keywords: Applying reason, Archetypal father figure, Authoritative, Being systematic, Bold & forthright, Bringing security & comfort, Categorizing, Commanding, Competitiveness, Confidence, Confinement, Constrained, Coordinating, Courage, Creating order out of chaos, Defending & protecting, Disciplinary actions, Establishing law & order, Experience, Family heritage, Fathering, Fighting for truth & justice is a duty, Forcefulness, Good judgment abilities, Governmental or corporate entities, Guiding growth, Having & sticking to a plan, Inner balance, Intelligent, Knowledge, Law & order, Love, Legal issues, Loose ends tied up, Maintains an inner balance, Mind over matter, Not easily influenced, Order out of chaos, Organized, Powerful & ambitious, Principled, Protecting & defending, Regimented, Regulation, Respected, Security, Setting the standard of behavior, Shoulders responsibility well, Stable, Stern, Strength & stability through wisdom, Structure, Systematic, Taking a leadership role, Waywardness harnessed, Wealth, Wisdom 

Negative Dignities 
Empress - mothering, free-flowing abundance
Seven of Cups - dissipation, lack of order
Five of Swords - bending the rules, breaking the law 

Positive Dignities 
Hierophant - conforming to rules
Justice - concerns of justice and legality
Two of Wands - having authority
Three of Wands - assuming leadership
Four of Pentacles - control, structure, order

III Empress

II Empress

 

The Empress and the High Priestess are the two halves of the female archetype in the major arcana. The Empress represents the fertile, life-giving Mother who reigns over the bounty of nature and the rhythms of the Earth. From her comes all the pleasures and joys of the senses and the abundance of new life in all its forms. The Empress encourages you to strengthen your connections with the natural world which is the ground of our being. Too often false sophistications and pleasures take us far from our roots. Let the Empress remind you to keep your feet firmly planted in the Earth.

In readings the Empress can refer to any aspect of Motherhood. She can be an individual mother, but as a Major Arcana card, she also goes beyond the specifics of mothering to its essence - the creation of life and its sustenance through loving care and attention.

The Empress can also represent lavish abundance of all kinds. She offers a cornucopia of delights, especially those of the senses - food, pleasure and beauty. She can suggest material reward, but only with the understanding that riches go with a generous and open spirit. The Empress asks you to embrace the principle of life and enjoy its bountiful goodness.

Cultivate your own creative potential. Internal accord with the natural world. Nurturing, caring. Understanding.

Your needs are met “naturally” and will be sustained for the entire journey. The Empress provides the key to all your needs. She is the fertile, life-giving Mother who reigns over the bounty of Nature and the Earth’s rhythms. From her come all of life’s pleasures, joys, and the abundance of new life in all its forms.

Material pleasures take us from our grounding and roots. The Empress reminds us to keep our feet planted firmly in the Earth.

Family issues may require your love and compassionate attentions. The Empress may refer to any aspect of Motherhood, whether as a physical person or the actions of mothering & nurturing.

The Empress represents Nature’s abundance and all it can provide. There is the promise of growth, prosperity & fertility in all things. Your needs will be fulfilled with joy and satisfaction. The seeds sown were well planted and the harvest is great. Now it is time to reap the benefits. You’ve come to the end and completion of hard work & sacrifice, which will soon bring recognition and rewards for your efforts.

Creative potential is prominent at this time, which can bring material rewards, but only with the understanding that riches go with a generous and open spirit. The Empress wants you to embrace the principle of life and enjoy its bountiful goodness.

Marriage or action. Actions & re-actions.

Success in creative pursuits. Mind over matter. Thoughts are things.

Union of minds. Mental & social pursuits.

Social activity. Friendly opposition.

Unbalanced activity.

Indecision leads to sorrow. Separation of ties. 

Keywords: Abundance, Action & reaction, Activity, Appreciating beauty, Being earthy, Caring, Cherishing the world, Compassion, Creativity, Doing physical activity, Earth connection, Embracing the natural, Enjoying extravagance, Experiencing the senses,  Expressing tenderness, Feeling connected to the Earth, Feeling rich, Feeling vibrantly healthy, Fertility, Focusing on the body, Friendly opposition, Generosity, Giving & receiving pleasure, Giving birth (literally or figuratively), Going outdoors, Growth, Harmonizing with natural rhythms , Harvest, Having more than enough, Joy, Loving care & attention, Luxuriating in plenty, Mental & social pursuits, Mind over matter, Mothering, Nature, Needs fulfilled, Nourishing life, Nurturing & caring for others, Open spirit, Physical activity, Pleasure, Prosperity, Relating to plants & animals, Responding to Nature, Receiving lavish reward, Rewards, Senses, Separation of ties, Social activity, Successful creative pursuits, Understanding, Vibrantly healthy, Welcoming abundance, Working with children 

Negative Dignities:

Emperor - fathering, order and discipline, regularity

Death - principle of death

Four of Pentacles - miserly possessiveness

Nine of Pentacles - refinement, sophistication

Positive Dignities:

Lovers - sexual fulfillment, pleasure

Star - generosity, free-flowing love

Nine of Cups - enjoying the senses

Seven of Pentacles - material reward

Ten of Pentacles - affluence, luxury, physical comfort

II High Priestess

II High Priestess

The High Priestess is the guardian of the unconscious. She sits in front of the thin veil of unawareness which is all that separates us from our inner landscape. She contains within herself the secrets of these realms and offers us the silent invitation, "Be still and know that I am God."

The High Priestess is the feminine principle that balances the masculine force of the Magician. The feminine archetype in the tarot is split between the High Priestess and the Empress. The High Priestess is the mysterious unknown that women often represent, especially in cultures that focus on the tangible and known. The Empress represents woman's role as the crucible of life.

In readings, the High Priestess poses a challenge to you to go deeper - to look beyond the obvious, surface situation to what is hidden and obscure. She also asks you to recall the vastness of your potential and to remember the unlimited possibilities you hold within yourself. The High Priestess can represent a time of waiting and allowing. It is not always necessary to act to achieve your goals. Sometimes they can be realized through a stillness that gives desire a chance to flower within the fullness of time.

Intuition is unlocked and you may be tested to use it. Hidden fears & secrets of the unconscious must be courageously listened to. It is time to go deeper within, beyond the obvious to find what is hidden & obscure. Have faith in your feelings, and be yourself. 

There is activity beneath the surface; the whole picture cannot be seen at this point. Share confidences with only one who is trusted implicitly.

We each hold our full, unlimited potential within ourselves, our intuition. We have only to access it willingly, sometimes through immediate action, but other times we may need to wait in stillness giving our desires a chance to bloom in the fullness of time.

The High Priestess is our strong, unrecognized subconscious motivation. Through strong contact with one’s subconscious self, inner enlightenment can be sought.

Hidden things. There is activity beneath that surface, so the entire picture is yet to be seen. Analyze the situation. Truth always wins.

Intuition is unlocked and you may be tested to use it. Sincerity unveils wisdom through intellectual exchange.

Hidden fears & secrets of the unconscious & your dreams must be courageously listened to. Keep your intentions silent. Follow your hunch.

Have faith in your feelings & intuitions at this time. Choose your associates discriminately.

Strong, unrecognized subconscious motivation. Strong contact with subconscious self. Inner enlightenment can be sought.

Don't cast your pearls before swine.

Keywords: A time of waiting, Accessing the unconscious, Acknowledging the Shadow, Activity beneath the surface, Allowing development, Allowing events to proceed without intervention, Analysis, Approaching a closed off area, Awareness of a larger reality, "Be still and know that I am God", Becoming calm, Being aware of a larger reality, Being receptive to influence, Calmness, Challenge yourself, Easily influenced, Hidden talents, Imagination, Important memories, Inner guidance, Keep intentions silent, Letting what is there flower, Looking beyond the obvious, Mystery, Non-action, Open to dreams & the unknown, Opening to the unknown, Opening to what could be, Passive, Patient, Personal development, Possibilities, Potential, Remembering something important, Seeing the potential, Seeing your hidden talents, Seeking guidance from within, Sensing the secret and hidden, Seeking what is concealed, Sensing the mystery,  Staying nonactive, Trusting your inner voice, Unconscious awareness, Understanding the possibilities, Unlimited possibilities, Using your intuition, Waiting patiently, Withdrawal, Withdrawing from involvement

Negative Dignities:
Magician - acting consciously, thinking, the unknown and obvious
Two of Wands - acting boldly
Seven of Wands - being aggressive
Eight of Wands - putting plans into action

Positive Dignities:
Hermit - looking inward, withdrawing, seeking guidance
Hanged Man - suspending activity, waiting
Four of Swords - resting quietly, contemplating

I The Magician

I The Magician

The Magician is the archetype of the active, masculine principle - the ultimate achiever. She symbolizes the power to tap universal forces and use them for creative purposes. Note her stance in the picture. She acts as a lightning rod - one arm extended up into the Divine for inspiration, the other pointing toward Earth to ground this potent energy. Her abilities appear magical at times because her will helps her achieve what seem to be miracles.

What makes the Magician so powerful? First, she is not afraid to act. She believes in herself and is willing to put that belief on the line. She also knows what she intends to do and why. She doesn't hesitate because she understands her situation exactly. The Magician can focus with single-minded determination. As long as she remembers the divine source of her power, the Magician remains the perfect conduit for miracles.

In a reading, the Magician implies that the primal forces of creativity are yours if you can claim your power and act with awareness and concentration. This card is a signal to act and act now, provided you understand exactly what you want and are committed to getting it.

The Magician card represents all 78 cards of the Tarot. It is all about forming an idea and finding a way to bring it to fruition. Imagination, will power & creativity are used to begin your quest, don’t hesitate to act. This card is the signal to act and act now, provided it is understood exactly what is wanted and there is a commitment to getting it. The Magician uses the application of will, strong, positive attitude, combined with the courage, confidence, and faith in her own talents, skills & creative ability will bring about success.

The Magician is the power of thought manifested by action. It is through this magickal action that all things are possible. She knows she is heading in the right direction.

She is also representative of someone who is not who they appear to be. This is a card of revelation, a revealing of that which is hidden. The Magician is both, an oracle and a liar, a cunning master of deception and a master manipulator.

As the adage goes, “The Teacher appears when the student is ready.” The Magician brings the Teacher to the student, the querent.

The Magician Tarot card also represents an amazingly skilled person known to the querent - maybe yourself, maybe someone else –  that person is the ultimate achiever.

Intervention of a higher consciousness. Mastery of the baser elements of the self or life.

Free spirit. Ability, possibly trickery.

Put across your message to a wider audience!

Conscious use of power, i.e. mind over matter.

Confidence in skills brings gain & acquisition through effort & persistence.

The Teacher appears when the student is ready.

An amazingly skilled person you know - maybe yourself, maybe someone else - who uses their creative ability.

Imagination, will power & creativity are used to begin your quest.

Application of will, strong, positive attitude, combined with the courage of faith blesses you with success.

You are heading in the right direction.

Keywords: Ability, Acknowledging your motivations, Acting consciously, Action, Applying the force of your will, Awareness, Becoming energized, Being creative, Being totally committed, Bringing an idea to fruition, Carrying out plans, Centered, Charisma, Cleverness, Concentration, Confidence, Conscious awareness, Courage of faith, Creating miracles, Creation, Creativity, Dexterity, Doing what needs to be done, Domination, Dominion, Energized, Examining the known situation, Experiencing power, Feeling centered, Feeling vigorous, Focused, Focusing on a goal, Free spirit, Having vitality, Heading in the right direction, Imagination, Individuality, Innovation, Inventiveness, Knowing what you are doing and why, Making a strong impact, Making what's possible real, Manipulation, Mentor, Mind over matter, Perfect conduit for miracles through Divine power, Persuasiveness, Positive attitude, Power, Power of thought manifested by action, Practicing what you preach, Producing magical results, Realizing your potential, Revelation, Setting aside distractions, Single-minded determination, Singleness of purpose, Success, Taking action, "The teacher will appear when the student is ready", Understanding your intentions, Uniqueness, Using your talents, Vigorous, Vitality, Will, Willpower, Wittiness

Negative Dignities:

High Priestess - non-action, intuition, accessing the unconscious

Hanged Man - suspending action, not doing

Seven of Cups - lacking focus and commitment

Four of Swords - resting quietly, storing energy

Eight of Swords - confused and uncertain, powerless

Positive Dignities:

Chariot - focusing, concentrating, being forceful

Two of Wands - personal power, wielding a strong force

Eight of Wands - quick action, making your move

Eight of Pentacles - focus and concentration

0 The Fool

0 The Fool

The Fool lies at the beginning of the Major Arcana, but also somewhat apart from the other cards. In medieval courts, the court jester was someone who was not expected to follow the same rules as others. He could observe and then poke fun. This makes the Fool unpredictable and full of surprises. He reminds us of the unlimited potential and spontaneity inherent in every moment. There is a sense with this card that anything goes - nothing is certain or regular. The Fool adds the new and unfamiliar to a situation.

The Fool also represents the complete faith that life is good and worthy of trust. Some might call the Fool too innocent, but his innocence sustains him and brings him joy. In readings, the Fool can signal a new beginning or change of direction - one that will guide you onto a path of adventure, wonder and personal growth. He also reminds you to keep your faith and trust your natural responses. If you are facing a decision or moment of doubt, the Fool tells you to believe in yourself and follow your heart no matter how crazy or foolish your impulses may seem.

The Fool is a blank slate, beginning at the beginning, all things are new. He’s happy-go-lucky having no experience with the potential pitfalls of life. He steps forward with his eyes looking at the clouds, he dances his way down the path. If he continues looking at the clouds rather than forward in front of him, he could stumble into a hole or off a cliff. Or worse, miss a new path that may be easier, or more adventurous, or full of more opportunities.

The Fool isn’t following a defined road. He’s walking his own path, being spontaneous and adventuresome. For one to do this, one must have an innate wisdom and lots of courage.

This card shows a journey of some sort is beginning or about to begin. A crossroads has been reached and a decision must be made. By letting go of expectations and doing the unexpected, one is able to reach new heights never even previously considered. All options are open, take advantage of them!

Have faith in your decisions, let go of worry & fear. Believe in yourself and the choices you will make, regardless of how crazy or foolish they may seem.

The adventure begins, being at the crossroads of a grand adventure. A new chapter opening in your life.

Playing it safe isn't keeping on the path. Your life is a blank canvas - you are starting anew. New beginnings bring wisdom & courage.

Trust your potential and be spontaneous.

If this card is in the #1 position in a reading, your evolutionary journey through life begins. When in the #10 position it represents the folly of proceeding on a course of action while ignoring the likely pitfalls.

Hope through prayer. Doubt destroys faith.

Rewards from community activity. Group cooperation.

Realization of humanitarian efforts. 

Keywords: Accepting your choices, Acting on impulse, Adding the new & unfamiliar, Adventurous, "Anything goes", Beginning, Beginning an adventure, Being spontaneous, Being true to yourself, Belief in yourself, Believing, Carefree, Change of direction, Cooperation, Courage, "Crazy" chances, Crossroads, Doing the unexpected, Effort, Embracing folly, Entering a new phase, Expanding horizons, Faith, Feeling loved, Feeling carefree, Feeling protected & loved, Feeling uninhibited, Follower your heart, Folly, "Foolish path", Frankness, Going on a journey, Happy-go-lucky, Having faith, Heading into the unknown, Heart's desire trusted, Hope through prayer, Impulsive actions, Innate wisdom, Innocence, Innocent joy, Into the unknown, Journey, Joy, Letting go of expectations, Letting go of worry & fear, Life is good, Living in joy, Living in the moment, New beginnings, New path, New phase in life, Nothing is certain or regular, Path of adventure & wonder, Protected, Pursuing a pipe dream, Recapturing innocence, Spontaneity, Starting something new, Staying open, Striking out on a new path, Surprising someone, Taking a "crazy" chance, Taking the "foolish" path, Trusting the flow, Trusting your heart's desire, Uninhibited, Unlimited potential, Unpredictable 

Negative Dignities:

V Hierophant: following convention, routine

XIII Death: ending, closing down

XV Devil: feeling cynical, lacking faith

2 of Swords: blocking off experience, feeling tense, holding back

4 of Pentacles: order and regularity

Reinforcing Dignities:

XII Hanged Man: having faith in what is, going with the flow

XVII Star: innocence, faith, trust

XX Judgment: rebirth, new starts

3 of Wands: expanding horizons, going into unexplored territory