Tarot

Tarot
MAJOR ARCANA
Trumps
The Major Arcana are known as Trumps or Triumphs, an idea that derives from the Renaissance fascination with
Trionfi, parades which were patterned after the Roman Triumphi, processions of victory, which apparently
originated among the Etruscans (Moakley 43). Moakley shows that much of the Major Arcana can be understood in
terms of a typical Renaissance sequence of triumphs in a pre-Lenten Carnival procession. Although I think she gets
carried away with her thesis, the basic idea has much merit and illuminates the structure of the Major Arcana. The
Carnival, of course, is a survival of the Saturnalia, which was a public year-end purification rite. It thus provides a
very appropriate model for the Major Arcana. Since I use the Ferrara order, as does Moakley, which differs from the
usual, it will be worthwhile to set out the Trumps:
King of Misrule: 1.Magician.
Tr. of Love:
2.Empress, 3.Emperor, 4.Priestess, 5.Priest, 6.Love.
Tr. of Virtue:
7.Temp., 8.Chariot, 9.Fortitude, 10.Wheel.
Tr. of Time:
11.Old Man, 12.Hanged Man, 13.Death, 14.Devil, 15.Tower.
Tr. of Eternity: 16.Star, 17.Moon, 18.Sun, 19.Judgem., 20.Justice, 21.World.
0 THE FOOL
Initiorum Princeps - Chief of Initiations
Motto: In mundo privato (In a private world)
Greek Letter = Alpha: Arche = beginning, first cause, origin.
Verse:
Behold! the Holy Idiot, lost within
A private world. He'll have the chance to win
New freedom from confining rules. Rejoice
The madness! For it brings another choice.
Now let the Saturnalia begin!
Basic Tarot Story
With all his worldly possessions in one small pack, the Fool travels he knows not where. So filled with visions,
questions, wonder and excitement is he, that he doesn't see the cliff he is likely to fall over. At his heel a small dog
harries him (or tries to warn him of a possible mis-step). Will the Fool learn to pay attention to where he's going
before it's too late?
Basic Tarot Meaning
At #0 (or, in some decks, #22, the last card as much as the first of the Majors) the Fool is the card of infinite
possibilities. The bag on the staff indicates that he has all he needs to do or be anything he wants, he has only to stop
and unpack. He is on his way to a brand new beginning.
But the card carries a little bark of warning as well. While it's wonderful to be enthralled with all around you, excited
by all life has to offer, you still need to watch your step, lest you fall and end up looking the fool.
Pythagorean Interpretation
When the time comes, as it always does, when the old rules, conceptual structures, prejudices and beliefs are not
longer adequate to the challenges at hand, then a Divine Maniac is needed. He or she lives in a private world, and so
is not bound by the shared conventions, preconceptions or norms of the society. The Gods - or Chance - select the
Idiot who will become the savior who will transform society. He is elevated to King for a short time (for only so much
madness can be tolerated), and must undergo many transformations before, with luck, he rejuvenates the world.
On a personal level, there are times in all of our lives when customary thought patterns have outlived there
usefulness. Then it is time for Divine Madness (mania). There are no rules for this, for it is the rules that are
bankrupt. The only escape is inspired frenzy and the blind leap into the abyss. We may hope for the best, but there
are no guarantees.
The Idiot represents the irrepressible Vital Spirit, overflowing its banks, roaring across the landscape, and carving
new pathways where it will.
Thirteen's Observations
As a card, the Fool ultimately stands for a new beginning often involving a literal move to a new home or job. The
querent (meaning the sitter, or the one asking the cards for advice) might be starting to date again, or trying out some
new activity. There's more than just change here, there is renewal, movement, and the energy of a fresh start.
In the Tarot, cards like The Magician or The Hermit can often stand for the querent or for someone in the querent's
life. The Fool, however, usually stands for the querent, himself. They are back at zero, whether that be in romantic
affairs, or career, work or intellectual pursuits. Far from being sad or frustrated by having to start over, however, the
querent feels remarkably *free*, light hearted and refreshed, as if being given a second chance. They feel young and
energized, as excited as a child who has discovered a new toyshop. Who knows what they will find on the shelves?
In addition, they likely have no idea where they're going or what they're going to do. But that doesn't matter. For the
Fool, the most important thing is to just go out and enjoy the world. To see what there is to see and delight in all of
it.
Unfortunately, this childlike state can make one overly optimistic or naive. A Fool can be a Fool. That business
opportunity might not be so surefire or amazing as it seems, and that new lover might not be so flawless.
Like the Fool, you might be so busy sightseeing and imagining the possibilities that you completely miss the fact that
you're about to go right off a cliff ! The card advises that one listen to that watchful little dog, which might be a
concerned friend, a wise tarot reader, someone harassing you from the sidelines, or just your instincts. However
exciting new beginnings may be, you still have to watch your step.
1 MAGICIAN
Dominus Casus - Lord of Chance
Suit: Wands - Element: Fire
Motto: Mutationis auctor & impulsor (Author and instigator of metamorphosis).
Dice: 1+1 (Snake Eyes) = Love+Impulse (Water Hexactys) = King of Misrule (Fire Hexactys).
Astragali: 1+1+1 = First of the Triumph of Love.
Greek Letter = Beta: Boulesis = purpose, intention, one's will.
Verse:
A touch of the Magician's Wand: a word,
A sight, a sound, a gift by chance conferred,
Transforms your life, and leads the soul beyond
Accustomed bounds, if only you respond.
Attend the Guide whene'er the call is heard!
Basic Tarot Story
Traveling on his way, the Fool first encounters a Magician. Skillful, self-confident, a powerful magus with the infinite
as a halo floating above his head, the Magician mesmerizes the Fool. When asked, the Fool gives over his bundled
pack and stick to the Magician. Raising his wand to heaven, pointing his finger to Earth, the Magician calls on all
powers. Magically, the cloth of the pack unfolds upon the table, revealing its contents.
To the Fool's eyes, it is as if the Magician has created the future with a word. All the possibilities are laid out, all the
directions he can take: The cool, airy Sword of intellect and communication, the fiery Wand of passions and
ambition, the overflowing Chalice of love and emotions, the solid Pentacle of work, possessions and body.
With these tools, the Fool can create anything, make anything of his life. But here's the question, did the Magician
create the tools, or were they already in the pack? Only the Magician knows - and on this mystery, our eloquent
mage refuses to say a word.
Basic Tarot Meaning

At #1, the Magician is the male power of creation by willpower and desire. The lemniscate (infinity symbol) over his
head indicates the energy of thought. Thus, he draws divine power down from the heavens into his white wand,
molds it with that energy of thought, and makes it manifest on Earth (his finger pointing to the ground). This is that
most ancient magic to make real whatever he imagines in his head merely by saying it aloud. ("And God said 'Let
there be Light!' and there was Light").
Reflecting this is the fact that the Magician is often represented by Mercury. Mercury is the planet and god of
smooth talkers and salesmen. Also clever with the sleight of hand (Mercury *was* the god of thieves!) and a
medicine man - either a real doctor or someone trying to sell you snake oil.
The 4 suits before him remind us of the 4 aces, which in the Tarot symbolize the raw, undeveloped, undirected
power of each suit. When the Magician appears, he reveals these to you. The tarot reader might well interpret this
card as telling the querent that they will be given a vision, an idea, a magical, mental image of whatever it is they
most want: the solution to a problem, an ambitious career, a love life, a job.
Transformation is initiated by a chance occurrence. The Magician, the King of the Saturnalia (Saturnalicius
Princeps), is chosen by lot, and during his seven-day reign his whim is law, and other people will be made kings or
beggars, winners or losers, by his caprice. He rolls his dice and others must obey. He is unpredictable, mercurial.
Thus he is called Lord of Chance.
The Magician is the creator of a new cosmos. He allows us temporary entry into another world so that we may be
transformed and reborn into the mundane world (cf. Hermes leading Orpheus into the Underworld and back). In
the Saturnalia (and Carnival), Hermes is released into the world to recreate it - a recreation - and through him the
limitless vitality of the Fool is given purpose, direction and intent.
However, to create a new cosmos (order), the old cosmos must be turned upside down. Thus the Magician Hermes is
the Lord of Contradiction. First, he is himself a contradictory figure: trickster yet savior, king of misrule yet obedient
to justice, deceiving orator yet honest prophet, illusionist yet revealer of truth, fraudulent conjurer yet genuine mage,
thief yet honest trader, diabolical yet angelic, material yet spiritual. Second, he governs contradiction, and shows the
way that finds unity in opposition. In particular, he governs the transformation of a bad situation into a good
outcome. Remember that on the day of his birth Hermes stole Apollo's cattle, tricked him and lied about it, yet these
crimes eventuated in Apollo receiving the lyre and becoming the patron of the arts, and in Hermes becoming the
patron of divination and shepherds. Hermes teaches us that the worst evils can be transformed to good. He provokes
us into new insights.
The Magician is one of the four Agents of Transformation (the others being X.Fortune, XI.Time and XVI.Star). He
is the psychopomp, who leads Souls across boundaries into new realms. He is the Guide or Teacher we encounter
just when they're needed most, or just when we're ready to understand what they have to say. He is the one who leads
us to the book that we happen to look at and buy on a whim, and which is later enormously valuable to us. He is the
source of the overheard remark that leads us on a path of change. When we benefit from synchronicity, Hermes
deserves our thanks.
If any card in the Tarot is the Tarot, it is the Magician. He's one of the most recognizable cards, always a favorite.
He's also the only card in the major arcana that refers to the minors with the "trumps" displayed upon his table. One
way to look at them is as ideas that the Magician is offering you. Thus, the card is about getting an idea and finding a
way to verbalize it. This is the first step toward making it a reality. Which is why the Magician can indicate a time
when one is eloquent and charismatic, clever, witty, inventive and persuasive.
Keep in mind, however, that the Magician could be a trickster. If this card represents some magnetic person in the
querent's life, they need to make sure that he's or she is a genuine magician, not a con man.
The card can also indicate an interest in certain careers or someone who is already in one of those careers: a
scientist, inventor or medical professional. The card also relates to careers where speech and writing is of great
importance: salesman, motivational speaker, storyteller, politician, commentator. This might be the querent himself,
something the querent wants to be, or someone who was, is or will be in his life.
Most importantly, the Magician card stands for the "reveal" - as in a magic trick. The handkerchief is draped over an
empty box, the Magician waves his wand, *presto!*--now there is a dove in the box. The Magician card does the
same for the querent--only what it reveals is not birds or rabbits but NEW ideas. Emphasis on NEW. When the
Magician card appears, the querent is likely to say: "Now there's an idea! Why didn't I think of that before?" Truth is
the querent probably had that idea in his head all along. The Magician merely revealed it to him, allowed him to
verbalize it and crystallize that idea. But what will the Querent do with this idea? That's a question for the next
card....
2 THE HIGH PRIESTESS

Magistra Pentaculi - Mistress of the Pentacle
Motto: Statu variabilis (Steadfast in changing)
Dice: 1+4 = Love+Mother (Water Hexactys); 3+1 = Family+Mother (Fire Hexactys).
Astragali: 1+4+1 = Love+Holy+Female.
Greek Letter = Epsilon: Exo = outside, beyond, outwards.
Trigram: :I: Name: K'an = the Abyssmal. Image: Water, Rain, Moon. The Second Daughter,
associated with passion, danger, repetitive bending, penetration. West in Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Shining Queen, who rules the velvet night,
And nurtures nascent change, concealed from sight,
Transforms and changes, wheeling light and dark,
And seeks the Sun to sire the unseen spark.
The watery depths bring forth the Child of Light.
Basic Tarot Story
Continuing his journey, the Fool comes upon a beautiful and mysterious veiled lady enthroned between two pillars
and illuminated by the moon. She is the opposite of the Magician, quiet where he was loquacious, still where he was
in motion, sitting while he stood, shrouded in the night where he was out in the bright of day. Sensing that she is a
great seer, the Fool lays out his sword, chalice, staff and pentacle before her. "The Magician showed me these, but
now I'm in a quandary. There are so many things I could do with them. I can't decide."
The High Priestess doesn't speak. Instead she hands him a pair of ancient scrolls. Seating himself at her feet, the
Fool puts his decision-making on hold and reads by the light of her crescent moon.
"I did not know any of this," says the Fool. The scrolls, like a secret manual, have given him insight into his new
tools. "This information helps me to narrow things down, but I'm still afraid of making a wrong decision."
The words come to him then, not from without but from within: "What do your instincts tell you?" The Fool reflects
on that, and that's when he knows what he should do. Decision made, he rises to leave even though he suspects that
the High Priestess has more secrets she could reveal to him--like what lies behind the pomegranate curtain. Right
now, however, he is focused and ready to be on his way.
Thanking the High Priestess, he heads off. But as he leaves he hears that inner voice, rising like the waters which
spring and flow from beneath her throne: "We'll meet again...when you're ready to travel the most secret path of all."
Basic Tarot Meaning
Once you have an idea, you also have decisions to make. The High Priestess holds scrolls of arcane information in
her arms. In addition, the moon crown on her head as well as the crescent by her foot indicates her willingness to
illuminate what you otherwise might not see about a job possibility, an investment, love, career, family, etc. But you
need some alone time, some quiet time to meditate and reflect.
This is what the card is all about. Seated between two pillars as between two choices, the High Priestess is not about
making a decision so much as holding decision-making at bay while you take time to listen to your inner voice. She
wants you to gain knowledge before you act: instinctual knowledge, supernatural knowledge, secret knowledge, selfknowledge.
The High Priestess, however, goes beyond even that for those who seek more. Behind her throne is the curtain that
leads to the deepest, most esoteric knowledge; the pomegranates that decorate it remind us of Persephone, who was
taken down into the land of the dead, ate its fruit and became the only goddess allowed to travel to and from that
strange land. The High Priestess is our guide to all that is mysterious and mystical.
The High Priestess represents the feminine components of the subconscious mind. She stands for those subconscious
processes that are most hidden, those which invisibly nurture, develop, connect and relate, those which transcend
duality. For, although she is a virgin priestess and represents all the eternally virgin goddesses, she is also the vehicle of
hidden gestation and the First Mother in potentia, the concealed mother required to manifest the spiritual. As such
she also represents the subconscious, synthetic processes of memory.
The activity of the High Priestess is symbolized by the abyssal water - impenetrably dark, infinitely deep, always
mixing, flowing, seeking its own level; by yielding she is as forceful as the mighty river Ocean. Her tears are the
healing dew, always striving to restore wholeness when division has gone too far.
Like the Moon, the High Priestess is steadfast in changing, for she is the principle of hidden change by cyclic growth
and decline. She represents the oscillating balance of matter and spirit, for she turns her face alternately toward the
earth and the sun. When she looks toward earth, she is the primary matter necessary for the manifestation of the
spirit, the neutral vessel of good and evil. When she looks to the sun, she is the means of spiritual attainment, the
Spiritual Bride and Mother, Sophia, the Redemptrix.
The High Priestess is pre-eminently occult, for her work is hidden. When she turns her face away, she vanishes into
her own shadow (the new moon), and when she meets the sun in closest conjunction, she also hides his face - an
occultation (eclipse). The High Priestess embodies the most spiritual aspects of the feminine.
If there is a card that symbolizes the tarot reader it is the High Priestess. A woman (or man!) of psychic powers,
intuition and secret knowledge. Where the Magician is about revealing, the High Priestess is about keeping things
hidden behind the curtain. Where he urges the querent to verbalize what he's thinking, the High Priestess urges him
to silently reflect on his feelings.
She is not only the complement to the Magician, however, but to two other majors. She is the counterpoint to the
Hierophant, maintaining secret traditions and rites passed from seer to successor, rather than advocating community
traditions. And she is the natural moonlight to the Hermit's manmade lantern, equally solitary and of the night, but
acting as restful librarian of information rather than restless seeker of it.
If the reader feels the High Priestess stands for the querent then this is a time of solitary investigation for them or
perhaps just a time to trust their instincts. Things kept secret will be revealed, either passed on to them by another or
coming to them psychically by way of visions or powerful feelings. Insights may be found in crystal balls, tea leaves,
dreams or conversations with spirits.
Standing for someone other than the querent, the High Priestess is usually read as a spiritual woman or medium, a
teacher of archaic knowledge, librarian or just a reclusive relative who knows many family secrets. She may come
across as cold, unpredictable and scary, but her instincts and insights will be uncanny.
The High Priestess if often seen as a perpetual maiden, the eternal virgin of an Athena, Diana or Vesta. But some
view her as also representing a woman who might be pregnant. In such instances, the High Priestess is NOT viewed
as an emblem of fertility, a "mother," but rather as a still, quiet incubator where the "idea" (child) can remain stable
and protected.
"I've a new idea," says the querent--thanks to the Magician. But now there are decisions to make. What direction
should one take this idea? The High Priestess not only offers illumination, revealing secret paths and hidden dangers,
but also a still, quiet place between the pillars of dark and light, existence and negation, wax and wane where one
can pause, see, feel and reflect on what one really wants to do with this idea. Now that you know what you want to
do, how do you make it real? The next card will discuss that...
3 THE EMPRESS
Magistra Sceptri - Mistress of the Sceptre
Motto: Magna Mater omnium nutrix (Great Mother, nurse of all)
Dice: 1+2 = Love+Female (Water Hexactys); 2+1 = Couple+Female (Fire Hexactys).
Astragali: 1+3+1 = Love+Ruler+Female.
Greek Letter = Gamma: Genesis = generation, production, creation, manner of birth.
Trigram: ::: Name: K'un = the Receptive. Image: Earth. The Mother, associated with receptivity,
docility, frugality and support (tree trunk, wagon). North in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
Eternal Mother, mistress of the grain,
Sustaining growth with either milk or rain,
Engulfs again her children, whereupon
The self-consuming wheel of life goes on.
Within her womb we all descend again!
Basic Tarot Story
Having decided what he will create with his tools, the Fool strides forward, impatient to make his future a full-grown
reality. This is when he comes upon the Empress. Her hair gold as wheat, wearing a crown of stars, and a white
gown dotted with pomegranates. She rests back on her throne surrounded by an abundance of grain and a lush
garden. It is possible that she is pregnant.
Kneeling, the Fool relates to her his story. And she, in turn, smiles a motherly smile and gently gives him this advice:
"Like newly planted grain or a newborn babe, a new life, a new relationship, a new creation is fragile. It requires
patience and nurturing. It needs love and attention. Only this will bring it to fruition." Understanding at last that his
creations will take time to develop, the Fool thanks the Empress and continues on his way.
Basic Tarot Meaning

The Empress is a creator, be it creation of life, of romance, of art or business. While the Magician is the primal
spark, the idea made real, and the High Priestess is the one who gives the idea time and space to decide on a form,
the Empress is either the womb or nursery where it grows till it reaches a certain level of maturity.
This is why the Empress' symbol is Venus, goddess of beautiful things and gardens, as wells as sex and love. Venus is
the goddess of artists, and helps them painstakingly develop their pieces from clay to statue, from first brushstroke to
masterpiece.
Even so, however, the Empress has more in common with Demeter, goddess of abundance, then sensual Venus, as
the wheat in the background and the pomegranates on her dress imply. She is the giver of Earthly gifts, the great,
fertile mother goddess. Yet at the same time, she can, in anger, withhold as Demeter did when her daughter,
Persephone was kidnapped. In fury and grief, she kept the Earth barren till her child was returned to her.
The Empress represents the characteristically feminine aspects of consciousness, the lunar illumination, which
merges rather than separates. She is the First Mother "in actu," who creates, preserves, nurtures, conserves, and
organizes growth and development - all with conscious awareness. Her activity is "mothering" in all its
manifestations, and this trump represents all the ideas suggested by Mothers - negative as well as positive. The
Empress represents activity that flows with Mother Nature, the universal processes of material birth, development
and decline.
The Empress is the bright side of the High Priestess; that is, she manifests in the light those tendencies that the
Priestess conceals, and gives them living, material embodiment. They are the two sides of the moon: light and dark,
the opposite sides of the same Eternal Feminine. This is shown by the water flowing on the Empress's left, the side of
the subconscious, for this stream has its source in the mighty river Ocean, the subconscious sea, from whose hidden
waters emerges the High Priestess, and which irrigates the lush efflorescence of the Empress's garden.
The Empress can be terrifying, for she is the Queen who must devour her mate, the Old King, reducing him to
primary matter, raw material for her desire to mold and reshape, and so beget the Young King. She is the allconsuming side of Nature, who destroys so that she may create anew.
The Empress card is one of the easier trumps to read. She's the Great Mother, so much so that she's often viewed as
one of those cards that can indicate a "positive" answer if a woman is wondering if she can get pregnant. This is the
fertile womb where anything can grow and thrive (as compared to the protective "incubator" of the High Priestess).
The Empress' ability to mother goes beyond the womb, however. She is patient, loving, giving, generous, devoted.
The ultimate nurturer.
If defining her as the querent, you can say that they are currently feeling like a mother hen, worried about their
children, new business, new creation, or new romance. Male or female, they want to dote and hover and fret over
every little sneeze and problem. They likely also want to talk only about their baby, boasting of its growth and
development, sending pictures of it to friends and relatives.
Likewise, the advice a reader might give on getting this card could be similar to that offered to a mother with a
young child: either that young things need time to grow, and so require patience and attention, or that while an
infant needs a great deal of care, a toddler needs less, and a child even less. A good mother adjusts her care as the
child matures and develops, giving them room to crawl and then run and play.
If defining the Empress as someone related to the querent, it is likely the querent's mother or a woman who is very
motherly toward them.
Of course, the Empress can also be about the not so nice aspects of a mom. She can smother, not know when to let
go, be possessive and jealous of those who would take away her "baby." It is important for the querent to realize that
plants can die from over-watering as easily as they can from neglect. Like any good mother or good gardener, the
querent must have patience and the ability to adjust and improvise as their "baby" sprouts and grows.
4 THE EMPEROR
Magister Sceptri - Master of the Sceptre
Motto: Potens Pater conservator orbis (Mighty Father, preserver of the world)
Dice: 1+3 = Love+Male (Water); 2+2 = Couple+Male (Fire).
Astragali: 1+3+3 = Love+Ruler+Male.
Greek Letter = Delta: Dike = justice, judgement, right; Dunastes = ruler, master.
Trigram: III Name: Ch'ien = the Creative. Image: Heaven, Sky. The Father, associated with strength,
creativity, firmness, endurance, purity and the word. South in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Mighty Father makes the laws that bind
The elements, the plants, and every kind
Of beast - but people too. He strives to feed
The folk, defending them by word and deed.
Observe the judgements fathered by his mind!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool was given options by the Magician, and decided on one with help from the High Priestess. He learned how
to develop it thanks to the Empress. Now it has reached as stage where he must find a way to manage it. How to do
this? He approaches a great Emperor seated on a stone throne. The Fool is amazed by the way the Emperor is
instantly, eagerly obeyed in every particular, at how well his Empire is run and organized. Respectfully, he asks the
Emperor how it is he does this. And the Emperor answers: "Strong will and a solid foundation of laws and order. It's
all very well," he explains to the Fool, "to be imaginative, creative, instinctual, patient; but to control one must be
alert, brave and aggressive."
Ready now to lead and direct rather than be led, the Fool heads out with new purpose.
Basic Tarot Meaning
The Emperor, as Aries, the Ram, naturally follows the Empress. On the one hand, he is Mars (the planet that rules
Aries) to her Venus, her lover and compliment, father to her mother, civilization to her nature, imposed order to her
artful creativity. He is the "All Father" giving his children the structure they need in their lives to help them become
responsible adults.
Aries is also, however, the first sign of the Zodiac, metaphorically the "infant." Like an infant he is filled with
enthusiasm, energy, aggression. He is direct, guileless and all too often irresistible. Unfortunately, like a baby he can
also be a tyrant: impatient, demanding, controlling.
In the worst of circumstances, the Emperor is a despot, imposing his will capriciously on his subjects. In the best of
circumstances, he signifies an intelligent, enthusiastic leader that everyone wants to follow, the great monarch of an
orderly, lawful, thriving Empire.
The Emperor represents the characteristically masculine aspects of consciousness, solar illumination, which demands
clarity, but may be harsh and withering. He is the archetypal pater familias, the head of the clan, with both authority
over the group and responsibility for its welfare. It is his burden to set down laws and maintain order, both within
and without. Further, he is the executive, for he must ensure that his plans, laws and judgements are translated into
action.
The Emperor is the source of conscious spiritual and moral principles, in contrast to the High Priest, who is the
source of spiritual and moral intuitions; they are the light and dark sides of the Eternal Masculine, the bright sun
and the dark sun, the conscious and subconscious masculine minds. However, the Emperor and High Priest are
further apart, and do not cooperate so well as their female counterparts, the Empress and High Priestess. Therefore
the Emperor's himation covers his left side, to show his habitual repression of the subconscious, and that he may tend
to dogmatism, rigidity and self-righteousness if his rule is not tempered by his co-regents, the Empress, Priest and
Priestess.
The Emperor does not, like the Empress, flow with nature; his fiery spirit leads him to impose his will on nature and
to force her to conform to his artificial standards of order. As a consequence he is fundamentally alienated from the
dark, Titanic forces of nature, and therefore vulnerable to their attack. Inevitably the Emperor will grow old and sick
and require rejuvenation at the hands of the Empress, Priest and Priestess (see VI.Love and VII.Temperance).
The Emperor card is the "Who's the boss?" card. It is an important question. The meaning of the card includes
being in control over your environment, your body, your temper, your instincts, your love life. This card gives the
querent permission to be aggressive, brave, bold and in command.
If the card doesn't seem to indicate the querent, it could be emblematic of their father or a father figure who was, is
or will be in their lives, a leader, employer, teacher or partner. This could be either type of father-figure, the
demanding tyrant, hated and feared, or the charismatic leader, respected and admired.
The Emperor can also be a warning to the querent to think about whether their Empire has become an unwelcome
chore. If it has, are they now a bad leader, demanding, unreasonable, unhappy? It might be time to abdicate the
throne. If, however, what the querent is building has merely gotten to a point where it's outgrown the nursery, then
the advice is to switch from loving mother to structured, organized father. To set down laws, discipline and rules, to
plan out the future and lead the way.
5 THE HIEROPHANT
Magister Pentaculi - Master of the Pentacle
Motto: Obscure ardens (Burning darkly)
Dice: 1+5 = Love+Father (Water); 3+2 = Family+Father (Fire).
Astragali: 1+4+3 = Love+Holy+Male.
Greek Letter = Wau (Digamma): Wruomai = to redeem, cure, heal, save, deliver.
Trigram: I:I Name: Li = the Clinging. Image: Fire, Lightning, Sun. The Second Son, associated with
giving light, attention and awareness. East in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Sun obscured by night, the heavens' fire,
Inflaming lunar waters, looks to sire
The Child, and purify the world with scorn
Severe, that scorches errors earthly born.
He holds the heights to which we all aspire.
Basic Tarot Story
Having created a solid foundation on which to build his future, the Fool is struck with a sudden fear. What if
everything he's worked for is taken away? Is stolen, or lost, or destroyed or vanishes? Or what if what he's created
isn't good enough? In a panic, he heads into a temple where he finds the Hierophant, a wise and holy man. Acolytes
kneel before the man ready to hear and pass on his teachings. The Fool tells the Hierophant his fears, and asks how
he can be free of them.
"There are two ways," says the Hierophant sagely, "Either give up that which you fear to lose so it no longer holds
any power over you, or consider what you will still have if your fear comes to pass. After all," the Hierophant
continues, "if you did lose all you'd built, you would still keep the experience and knowledge that you've gained up to
this point, wouldn't you?"
"That is true," the Fool says. "But what about the community, society and friends I've discovered thanks to what I've
created? More than knowledge or experience, I value them. If I lost all, I'd lose them too, wouldn't I?"
"Not necessarily," the Hierophant answers with a warm glow in his compassionate eyes. "If your community has
traditions that you all share, ethics and beliefs, then you will never lose that fellowship even if circumstances force
you to part. You can even pass such onto your children giving them the same fellowship with each other and with
past generations."
Hearing this, the Fool feels his heart ease, as if knots of fear have been loosened. A sense of peace blankets him, and
he takes a moment to thank the good Hierophant most profoundly. Stepping out of the sanctuary he makes his way
to a meeting with his friends. Tonight they will talk about how they can create lessons and traditions to preserve not
only their experience and knowledge, but their community.
Basic Tarot Meaning
Taurus the Earthly bull may seem an odd sign for a holy man, but it makes sense if you understand that the
Hierophant's purpose is to bring the spiritual down to Earth. Where the High Priestess connects to the esoteric with
her secret, solitary rites, the Hierophant (or High Priest) leads his flock in shared, communal rituals.
The Hierophant is well suited to be such a leader as, like all Taureans, he strives to create harmony and peace in the
midst of crisis. Such rituals, rites and traditions remind the community of their values, their shared identity and the
religious structure that gives their lives order and meaning. No matter how chaotic and frightening the times, this can
bring tranquility.
The Hierophant's only problem is that, like the Bull, he can be stubborn and hidebound. Also, as he is working for
the harmony of the community, the Hierophant is not a card that favors individuality. Harmony cannot be achieved
if everyone is marching to their own drummer. The Hierophant is about shared feelings, beliefs and ways. It even
can be about blending in or surrendering to tradition and community rather than asserting your uniqueness.
The High Priest represents the subconscious masculine elements of the psyche. He is symbolized by the ruddy sun as
it sets and travels in the subconscious sea to the next dawn of consciousness.
The High Priest embodies spiritual aspiration, unreflective moral judgement and the drive toward perfection. He is
intolerant of the failings of the flesh and neglectful of the needs of earthly existence. Since he tends to be stern and
unforgiving, he needs his co-regents, the Empress, Emperor and High Priestess, to mollify his severity.
"Pontifex" means "he who prepares the way," for it is the High Priest who makes a bridge (pons) that binds heaven
and earth, the fountainhead of religion (religio, from religare, to bind fast). He is the conscience, the inner voice and
inner teacher (in-tuition), who sits in judgement of ourselves and others, symbolized by the pruning saw in the right
(action) hand. The glowing pruning saw also represents the celestial fire of the setting sun, as opposed to the High
Priestess's abyssal water. The wolf on the left (unconscious) side represents the potential viciousness of unconscious
judgement.
Whereas the High Priestess's vase contains water (i.e. healing love), the High Priest's contains wine (i.e., fiery spirits).
The wind blowing his chiton also reminds us that he represents spiritus (spirit, breath).
The Hierophant card often features religious symbols that elicit strong feelings in both readers and querents. Some
find it hard to disassociate the Hierophant from certain organized religions (or branches of a religion), which they
view as domineering, irrational, even cruel. And so they tend to interpret the Hierophant only by his potential
negatives: as hide-bound, literal and stodgy.
I like to point out that there are decks where the Hierophant is the Oracle at Delphi, a yogi, a pagan high priest or a
village elder. If it helps, the reader can try and think of the Hierophant as one of these less conventional spiritual
leaders.
It is certainly true, however, that the Hierophant can represent those in the querent's life who preach by the book, or
refuse to deviate one iota from old-fashioned ways of doing things. Try to keep in mind, however, that such irascible,
orthodox types are usually acting out of fear. They're terrified that any change will weaken the community and its
faith. This is ironic as such traditions are meant to erase fear and create peace and harmony, not generate more fear.
Likewise, the Hierophant might well be a warning to the querent, himself, against being too stubborn, too fearful of
change, especially in matters of theology, ethics or traditions. The Hierophant could appear as a reminder that the
aim of traditions is not to follow them by rote, but to use them to keep alive the spirit and faith of a people.
This is an important message. When things are going very wrong in the world, it is the Hierophant who wades in,
quiets the panic, and offers good, practical advice as well as spiritual assurances. He is the teacher, therapist,
counselor, advisor, priest or rabbi. He answers questions people would ask of the divine, but also acts as the voice of
the community, speaking for the people as well as to them.
The Hierophant symbolizes the community's traditions, ethics and faith, the spirituality that defines and unifies
them, generation to generation. "Remember where you came from," this card tells you, "the traditions of your
forefathers, the lessons of your faith, and you will know how to survive this crisis." In the most dire times of loss and
fear, the Hierophant is there to remind you that you are never alone.
6 THE LOVERS
Magister Poculi - Master of the Cup
Motto: Omnia vincit Amor. (Love conquers all.)
Dice: 1+6 = Love+Offspring (Water); 3+3 = Family+Offspring (Fire).
Astragali: 1+4+4 = Love+Priest+Offspring.
Greek Letter = Zeta: Zeteo = to desire, seek, require, demand, search.
Trigram: II: Name: Tui = the Joyous. Image: Lake. The Third Son, associated with joy and
attraction. Northeast in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
Desire draws the Moon and Sun to hold
Each other; hid in darksome depths, the bold
Embrace of sibling spirits joined in love
Unites the world below with sky above.
Unasked, the Dart of Passion strikes; be bold!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool comes to a cross-road, filled with energy, confidence and purpose, knowing exactly where he wants to go
and what he wants to do. But he comes to a dead stop. A flowering tree marks the path he wants to take, the one he's
been planning on taking. But standing before a fruit tree marking the other path is a woman. The Fool has met and
had relationships with women before, some far more beautiful and alluring. But she is different. Seeing her, he feels
as though he's just been shot in the heart with cupid's arrow.
That's how shocking, how painful is his "recognition" of her. As he speaks with her, the feeling intensifies; like finding
a missing part of himself. It is clear that she feels the same about him. They finish each other's sentences, think the
same thoughts. It is as if an Angel above had introduced their souls to each other.
Though it was his plan to follow the path of the flowering tree, and though it will cause some trouble for him to
bring this woman with him, the Fool knows he dare not leave her behind. Like the fruit tree, she will fulfill him. No
matter how divergent from his original intent, she is his future. He chooses her, and together they head down a whole
new road.
Basic Tarot Meaning
New readers often ask, "What is the Lovers' card about? Is it about finding love?" Yes, and no. It is possible that the
original name of this card was "Love." The oldest decks call it "The amorous one," The Lovers being a
mistranslation. So really, it's about one person being "in love" with someone or something.
Many books, however, define the card not as "Love" but as a "choice." And the images that have been used for this
card make it even more confusing. The original trump featured a man and a woman with a cupid above them about
to shoot his dart (into which? Cupid's arrows only make the one they strike fall in love). Later decks had a man
choosing between two women, or a man meeting his true love with the help of a matchmaker. Still later, with Waite,
we have an Angel above Adam and Eve. The Angel stands for Raphael, who is emblematic of Mercury and Air, with
Adam and Eve related to Gemini (sign of Mercury) in that Eve split from Adam and is, essentially, his twin.
And the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge indicates Adam and Eve choosing to "know" each other in every sense of
the word.
This connection to Gemini means that the Lovers card is NOT about "romance" or passion. Romantic emotions are
typically related to water. And blazing passion is associated with fire. Gemini, an air sign, is about messages and
making contact. It's about the psyche.
In addition, at #6 the Lover's card is about "harmony." Thus, it is about something that speaks to you, that you
"know" and recognize as your other or mirror self (twin), and which makes you feel harmonically balanced or
complete. You may experience this psychic attraction to something small like a pair of shoes you have to have, or a
rock band whose music says all you ever wanted to say. Or you might be drawn to something huge, a plot of land
you want to own, or someone else's boyfriend/girlfriend who, at first sight, makes you think: "That's my husband/
wife."
In interpretation, the card indicates that the querent has come across, or will come across a person, career, challenge
or thing (a puppy, a car, a house) that they will fall in love with. They will know instinctively that it was meant for
them, even if it means diverging from their chosen path (that is the "Love" part). On the other hand, their common
sense must also make a decision on whether or not to go along with this psychic "choice." There is often a measure of
hardship or cost that comes with giving into this spiritual attraction.
Eros, the power of conjunction, an agent or alter-ego of the Magician, brings about the sacred marriage of the
opposites. Here we see the Sun and Moon, representing the masculine and feminine unconscious, greeting each
other, stripped of all deception. This is not a conscious decision, for Eros pierces the unconscious of both the man
and the woman, so that each is compelled to acknowledge the other. In this way all the opposites are unified: male
and female, conscious and unconscious, thought and feeling, intuition and sensation.
This is no ordinary marriage, but an alchemical conjunction of brother and sister. Upon its consummation the
masculine poles (consciousness, thought, intuition) will be destroyed, dissolved in the subconscious mother sea; this
represents the dissolution that must precede the rejuvenation of the masculine elements. The divine child will
consume the mother's substance while it grows in her womb, and she will die in birth, thus obliterating the feminine
poles (unconsciousness, feeling, sensation). The child, however, will survive, and manifest a well-tempered balance of
all oppositions, thus reincarnating both parents (cf. VIII.Temperance).
The Lovers' card often confuses readers as its most common interpretation is about making a choice. If we examine
it closer, we see this does go along with the name (or mis-name of the card). Two choices are involved with the card.
First, your soul or psyche is making its choice. It recognizes this other person/thing as being your spiritual twin or as
harmonizing with you; you become "amorous" for it.
Now the rest of you, the demands of your life, your emotional heart, passionate soul, can agree or not. That's the
other choice. You will feel powerfully drawn to this career, challenge, person or thing so much so that, no matter how
scary, how difficult, irrational or troublesome, you will be inclined to go for it. This is LOVE. But you will also know
that it comes at a cost. Maybe the person you're attracted to isn't a romantic and your dreams of a wine-and-roses
love affair can't be. Maybe they don't set you on fire and you can't have the passion you want. Or maybe this thing/
person is just inconvenient.
Your friends and family may also weigh in. They may think you're crazy, may argue with you not to get involved.
You, yourself, might think its madness to change your life or break with your community in order to have this.
Coming after the Emperor with his imperial rules, and after the Hierophant with his communal faith, The Lovers
acknowledges a spiritual power that often defies earthly laws and religious traditions. Obeying this urge can be
foolish, dangerous, selfish, thoughtless, earth-shattering.
Yet you can say "no" to this attraction. You do have that choice. If, however, you don't allow yourself to try and make
this person, career, challenge or thing a part of your life, you may regret it, profoundly and forever.
7 THE CHARIOT
Magister Gladii - Master of the Sword
Motto: Victoria sperata. (Victory hoped for.)
Dice: 2+3 = Virtue+Male (Water); 4+2 = Virtue+Second (Fire).
Astragali: 1+6+3 = 1st Ogdoad+Virtue+Male (Victory).
Greek Letter = Theta: Thrasos = courage, boldness, confidence, audacity, rashness, impudence.
Trigram: I:: Name: Chen = the Arousing. Image: Thunder. The First Son, associated with initiative,
action, incisiveness, vehemence, strength. Southeast in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Hero crowned by Victory drives the car
Of triumph, seeking still to venture far,
Accepting every challenge. He commands,
And masters mighty steeds with skillful hands.
Our vision's dazzled by the Hero's star!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool is close to completing what he set out to create long ago, back when the Magician revealed those tools to
him. But enemies are now standing in his way, devious human enemies, bad circumstances, even confusion in his
own mind. There's no more forward momentum; he feels he is fighting just to stay where he is. Walking along the
shore, watching the waves come in, he puzzles over how to defeat these enemies and get things moving forward once
again. It is here that he comes across a charioteer, standing in his gold and silver chariot, his black and white steeds at
rest. "You seem a victorious warrior," the Fool remarks. "I feel beset by my enemies, unable to move forward. What
should I do?
"First, you must armor yourself," the Charioteer strikes the chariot and then his breastplate with a gauntleted fist,
making both ring out. "Next, you must focus on your goal, where do you mean to go, what do you mean to do." The
warrior nods to his beasts. "Your steeds keep the wheels turning, but it is your control and direction of them that gets
them to their destination. Dark and light, they must be made to draw in harmony, under your guidance." The Fool
nods. That makes sense. "What if an someone or something gets in your way?"
The Charioteer coolly meets the Fool's gaze. "You run them down. Your aim is victory, and to be victorious you must
have unwavering confidence in your cause. Never question, never doubt what you're trying to achieve. Never lose
your focus or your motivation."
The Fool is impressed and inspired. He thinks he now knows how to get past all the distractions and setbacks that
have been keeping him trapped in place, like a riptide in the ocean. He thanks the warrior, but before he leaves, the
warrior stays the Fool.
"One thing more you should keep in mind," he says, "Victory is not the end, it is the beginning. Remember that
before you decide to enter into any contest."
Basic Tarot Meaning
The chariot is one of the most complex cards to define. On its most basic level, it's about getting what you want. It
implies war, a struggle, and an eventual, hard-won victory over enemies, obstacles, nature, the uncertainties inside
you. But there is a great deal more to it. The charioteer wears emblems of the sun, yet the sign behind this card is
Cancer, the moon. The chariot is all about motion, and yet it is often shown as stationary.
What does this all mean? It means a union of opposites, like the black and white steeds. They pull in different
directions, but must be (and can be!) made to go together in one direction. That is perhaps the most important
message of the Chariot. Separate the driver form the chariot, the chariot from the horses, the horses from each other
and from the driver, and nothing gets done. They all do their own thing. Put them all together, with the same goal in
mind, and there will be no stopping them.
Confidence as well as unity of purpose and control is needed, and, most especially, motivation. The card can, in fact,
indicate new motivation or inspiration, which gets a stagnant situation moving again. It can also imply, on a more
pragmatic level, a trip (usually by car).
The Chariot is the vehicle of the Hero, both to sally forth on new adventures, and to celebrate his triumphant
return. Mobile yet secure, it is the means by which he accomplishes his daring deeds.
The characteristics of the Hero - courage, competitiveness, aggressiveness, strength, will - are potent instruments of
good and ill, and he may bring salvation or destruction. But, however great his deeds, he will not be welcomed home
with a Triumph nor be celebrated as a Hero unless his victory is more than personal, unless it is a victory for the
people. In this he is guided by the seven stars above him, his destiny, which is the Wain (i.e., the Wagon), the way to
the center around which the heavens revolve.
It is especially important that the Hero master and control the raw animal energy of his horses - physical and
spiritual - which pull in different directions. For this he needs a strong, steady hand on the twin reins of will and
intelligence, without which he will not have a steady vehicle from which to wield his spear and slay whatever dragons
he encounters.
The wolf reminds us that the Hero may be ruthless, as does the Bronze Age shield. Made from a bronze plate over
seven layers of tough oxhide, the shield also warns us that the Hero may shield himself from human compassion,
hiding his face behind layers of protection. Though this shield covers the entire person, it is too great a burden, and
it is eventually abandoned for the smaller, round shield, balanced in all directions, which must be maneuvered
skillfully to parry blows.
On the other hand, the lush vegetation reminds us that the Hero's vitality is the force of life itself, striving to preserve
and propagate itself and its kind, for Mars also fortifies and protects domesticated plants and animals. We may call
Mars the God of Marches, for each new campaign must begin with a march and each spring season begins in
March.
The Chariot is a fascinating card, but also frustrating to interpret. Like Cancer, the crab, it is about being armored,
self-reliant and in command of one's own destiny. On the battlefield, a chariot is autonomous. It fights alone, not
with other troops or cavalry.
Yet the Chariot is also a symbol of unified parts. If any part is missing - chariot, horses, driver - it cannot go.
The crab moves from one plane to the next (water to land and back again) and the Chariot is viewed as moving
likewise, from conscious and unconscious, Earthly to spiritual. Also, like chariots, crabs come upon each other from
the side rather than straight on. So there is a tricky element to The Chariot for all that it seems to travel in a straight
line.
The Chariot is a card of contradictions. It's about sidewise battles, yet also about full-speed ahead. It's about the
hard exterior and the soft interior, the light and dark, the water and the shore, moon and sun. It is the Sphinx, which
is also often a symbol of Cancer, the lion and the man united, a mystery. Yet the Chariot says all these can be united.
The querent who gets this card is likely dealing with a lot of contradictions in their life. Maybe arguing people, or a
variety of different feelings. The card says that they must become the driver of the chariot. They must decide on a
goal, take control and get all the contradictions to ignore their wants and go where the querent wants.
How can the querent do this? By being confident. The one who has unwavering faith in their convictions is the one
who can make others put aside their differences and do as asked. Likewise, such a person can overcome their doubts
and uncertainties and achieve victory.
You must have faith that there is nothing that can stand in your way. Note, however, that this unity and the
confidence that creates it will last only till victory is achieved. But then, the Chariot isn't interested in unity for unity's
sake. Only in unity for victory's sake.
The Chariot is a marvelous card in that it can assure the querent success no matter the odds. But the card also warns
that the drive toward this victory might lead to ruthless, diehard behavior, to a desire to win at any cost. The querent
should be reminded that winning isn't everything nor "the only thing." It is, rather, the start of things.
8 STRENGTH
Magistra Gladii - Mistress of the Sword
Motto: Domina bestiarum lenis (Gentle Lady of the Beasts)
Dice: 2+4 = Virtue + Female (Water); 4+3 = Virtue + Third (Fire).
Astragali: 1+6+4 = 1st Ogdoad + Virtue + Female.
Greek Letter = Iota: Iskhus = strength, force, might; Iphi = strongly, valiantly.
Trigram: :II Name: Sun = the Gentle. Image: Wind, Wood. The First Daughter, associated with
penetration, following guidelines, work, vehemence, changeability.
Verse:
With gentle hand and eye she charms the beast
And teaches him the time to speak. Released
From fear of one another, freedom grows
For each, a bond that blossoms like the rose.
It's love, not force or fear, that tames the beast!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool, victorious over his enemies, is feeling arrogant, powerful, even vengeful. There are hot passions in him,
ones he finds himself unable and unwilling to control. It is in this state that he comes across a maiden struggling with
a lion. Running to help, he arrives in time to see her gently but firmly shut the lion's mouth! In fact, the beast, which
seemed so wild and fierce, is now completely at her command.
Amazed, the Fool asks her, "How did you do that?" One hand on the lion's mane, she answers, "I asked the lion to do
it, and it did it."
"But-but-" the Fool stutters, confounded. "Why did it want to obey?" At that moment, the Maiden meets the Fool's
eyes; he sees in her warmth, gentleness, a heart so great that its generosity seems as infinite as its willingness to
understand. And that is when the Fool understands exactly why the lion did her bidding.
It wanted to connect to that higher energy.
Yet there is still one thing that confuses the Fool. "But," he says, much softer now, "Why would you, fair maiden,
want to keep company with a beast?"
"Because he, too, is filled with a wonderful energy," the Maiden says. "It is wild and fierce, but it can be banked, like
a fire in a hearth. I knew if he would take direction from me, we could both be warmed."
"So, too," she adds, "are our passions. Let them run wild and they will do damage. But we can, with gentle fortitude,
check and direct those passions. In doing so, we can get so much more out of them. And yet, still sate them."
His rage quieted, the enlightened Fool walks away knowing that it wasn't only the lion that was tamed this day by a
Maiden's pure and innocent strength.
Basic Tarot Meaning

There are many stories that come to mind with this card: Daniel in the lion's den. The Aesop's fable of "The Sun
and the Wind," where the Sun's warmth, as compared to the Wind's coldness, persuades a man to take off his coat.
Also tales of saintly maids who get brutish barbarians to kneel down in prayer. What we see in all these stories is the
taming of the beast by way of inner strength and gentleness.
The Maiden represents higher feelings and that we can experience if we bring our wild passions to heel. And so we
willingly do so.
This card, however, isn't just about the Maiden's power. Like its ruling sign Leo, this card is also about the hot,
roaring energy and enthusiasm of the Lion including passions like "lust" (which is the name it was given by Crowley
in his Thoth deck). The lion's power may be frightening, but it is also desirable. Much can be achieved if such power
is put to use. Some decks, in fact, label this card as "Power."
That energies can be brought under control and used is very close to the message of the Chariot, which might be
why, in some decks, it is Justice that is card #8 instead of Strength. There is a difference, however, between Strength
and the Chariot. The Chariot is a card about using your impulses to achieve a victory.
Strength is about combining two strengths to overcome weakness. The Maiden is weak of form, but her mastery of
herself is powerful. The Lion is strong of form, but weak when it comes to mastering himself. The Maiden's
commands overcome the Lion's weakness, and his form overcomes the Maiden's weakness. This is why the Maiden
doesn't try to harness the lion to a chariot, nor does she run from it or try to kill it. She meets its eyes, touches it,
embraces it. This is a card about understanding our wild natures, accepting them, yet also gentling those passions so
that they work for us rather than against us. Putting these two strengths together creates perseverance, personal
honor, and courage.
The card can also stand for a steadfast friend.
In simplest terms this trump represents fortitude, that is, strength, vigor and courage. However, fortitude appears on
two levels. The lion represents the strength, vigor and courage of the primitive elements of the psyche, the fiery
vitality of one's animal nature. The lion is noble, even regal, but potentially savage, uncontrollable, destructive and
devouring.
The young woman, Andreia, represents the anima, which mediates between the ego and the beast. She symbolizes
fortitude of a different kind, for she has a magical control over beasts of all kinds, directed not by a wand, but by her
eyes and hands. Her power is strong and she has the courage to use it to control animal nature.
Though Andreia is skilled with the sword, she has set it aside, because it's ineffective for training the beast. The
sword represents rational discrimination, but this task demands a gentle eye and the physical application of
compassionate hands. For Andreia does not want to kill the beast; she knows it will be better for both of them if he is
tamed and trained. In this way they can cooperate and both will win new freedom. No longer will consciousness be
forced to flee the beast; no longer will the beast be driven by its instincts.
Andreia is manipulating the lion's mouth. She may encourage the beast to close its mouth and cease its primitive
roaring; or she may encourage him to open his mouth, and help him to articulate his needs and desires. In this way
Andreia and the lion can help one another, and live happily together - for he is her familiar.
Thirteen's Opinion
The essence of civilization is being able to think beyond primal animal needs like food, survival and sex. The
Maiden with her lemniscate (which, we remember from the Magician card, indicates the energy of thought), pure
white robes and floral wreath is indicative of loftier aspirations: like honor, compassion and bravery. Thus, the
Strength card reminds us that, unlike a beast, we have the fortitude to endure the pain, stay undaunted by fear, and
resist our animal desires. We can do more and be greater.
Such aspirations shine out of us, like "inviolate innocence" making even those with more physical strength bow to
our will. Crowley, of course, has a different take. He sees the woman with the lion as embracing her power to create
lust (and be lustful) and using that to civilize the world. Yet this is not so different from Waite who also argues that the
Lion wants to obey the Maiden.
Unlike the imperial fiat of the Emperor or the morality and traditions of the Hierophant, the Maiden (civilization)
gains control over our animal natures by showing us all the wonderful energies we will gain if we obey her. This is
very like wild youths choosing to join the military and obey its restrictions because doing so gives them lofty feelings
of pride and glory.
We should not forget, however, that the woman also sees something wonderful in the lion. She doesn't want to erase
the lion or make it other than a lion, but she can see that the lion's energy is being wasted. She is moved to tame it so
that they can both benefit.
Wang in the Qabbalistic Tarot likens Strength to a Vestal Virgin tending a sacred flame. And this, I think, is one of
the best interpretations. Fire is a fearful thing, hot, burning - all too easily able to spark out of control. But
somewhere along the way, we lost our fear - but not our respect - for fire. With will and intelligence, we came to
understand its nature and make it our tool. Similarly we can direct and make great good use of our passions, but
only if we're willing to see them as a natural part of us, sacred even, like the Vestal Virgin's flame.
I think it also worth noting that, as with fire or taming a lion, one might get burned or scratched a few times by that
which you're trying to understand, be it a situation, a person, or your own unworthy impulses. The important
message of the strength card is to have fortitude. When your gentle strength brings this wild thing under control, you
both will be free of weaknesses, and able to command of great power.
9 THE HERMIT
Dominus Necessitatis - Lord of Necessity
Suit: Swords - Element: Air
Motto: Tempus, rerum edax. (Time, devourer of everything.)
Dice: 2+6 = Virtue + Offspring (Water); 5+1 = Time + First (Fire).
Astragali: 4+4+4 = First of Triumph of Time.
Greek Letter = Lambda: Lachos = fate; Leukophrus = of white eyebrows.
Verse:
No power impedes the measured step of Time,
Who eats away from everything its prime,
For nought endures for long. Yet passing years
May grant us peace and wisdom, free from fears.
Attend the tread of Time: stark, yet sublime.
Basic Tarot Story
After a long and busy lifetime, building, creating, loving, hating, fighting, compromising, failing, succeeding, the Fool
feels a profound need to retreat. In a small, rustic home deep in the woods, he hides, reading, cleaning, organizing,
resting or just thinking. But every night at dusk he heads out, traveling across the bare, autumnal landscape. He
carries only a staff and a lantern.
It is during these restless walks from dusk till dawn, peering at and examining whatever takes his fancy, that he sees
things he's missed during his lifetime. His lantern illuminates animals and insects that only come out at night, flowers
and plants that only bloom by moon or star light.
As these secret corners of the world are illuminated and explored by him, he feels that he is also illuminating hidden
areas of his mind. In a way, he has become the Fool again. As in the beginning, he goes wherever inspiration leads
him. Back then, however, his staff rested on his shoulder, carrying unseen his pack. The Fool was like the pack:
wrapped up, unknown. The Hermit's staff leans out before him now, not behind. And it carries a lantern, not a pack.
The Hermit is like the lantern, illuminated from within by all he is, capable of penetrating the darkness.
Basic Tarot Meaning
Represented by Virgo, the Hermit is a card of introspection, analysis and, well, virginity. This is not a time for
socializing; the card indicates, instead, a desire for peace and solitude. Nor is it a time for action, discussion or
decisions. It is a time to think, organize, ruminate, and take stock. There may be feelings of frustration and
discontent during this time of withdrawal. But such times lead to enlightenment, illumination, clarity.
In regards to people, the Hermit can represents a wise, inspirational person, friend, teacher or therapist, someone the
querent usually sees alone, someone the rest of the querent's friends and family may not know about. This is a
person who can shine a light on things that were previously mysterious and confusing. They will help the querent
understand themselves or find what it is they are seeking.
The Old Man symbolizes the inexorable flow of time in both its destructive and constructive effects. His decrepit
body reminds us that Time is the devourer of all things and that, like the substance in the hourglass, his physical
vitality will run out until it is exhausted. However, just as the hourglass can be inverted, so a new generation restores
the font of physical vitality.
Yet Time is not wholly destructive, for the gift of Time is the serenity and wisdom that are attainable only through
the experiences of a long life. Further, this Wise Old Man's white beard indicate that age has given him a new purity
and innocence.
The downward flow of matter in the hourglass is balanced by an upward flow of spirit (spiritus, air). Thus the loss of
vitality in the Old Man's body (lower vessel) is balanced by the increasing spiritualization of his mind (the higher
vessel), which is now filled less with earthly matters and more with the spirit.
The flint sickle represents the harvest - cruel destruction for last year's crop, but nevertheless necessary to make room
for the new crop and to reap the fruits of the current harvest. It is the old crescent moon, which is the end of the old
cycle and the harbinger of the new one.
One of the important things about this card is that the Hermit is almost always shown on the move. He's never
hiding away in his cave. Rather, he's out wandering, searching. This is apt for the restless mind of a Virgo, always
gathering information, analyzing, making connections. Virgos are also known for being the skeptics of the zodiac. If
anyone is going to stick a lantern into a dark place and take a good look at what's going on, it's a Virgo.
Combined with a desire to just "be alone," the Hermit indicates a feeling of impatience with people. The querent
might be sensitive to having his/her peace disturbed, or express disdain for those who can't see what they're seeing
("Are you blind?" might be their refrain, or, more typically, "You just don't get it, and I can't explain it to you.").
They're likely to be grumpy and anti-social.
For the querent, however, this is a special time. Like an artist who hides away for days then emerges to paint a
masterpiece, this quiet time allows all the pieces to fall into place. Their minds are alive, and they can see things they
weren't able to see before. So go ahead and encourage them to take late night drives, long walks, hide in their room
or go on retreat for a month. When they come back, they'll have a new understanding of the world, of their lives,
and of themselves. It'll be the best thing for them, and for everyone else.
10 THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

Domina Casus - Lady of Chance
Suit: Pentacles - Element: Earth
Motto: Fortune rota volvitur. (The Wheel of Fortune turns.)
Dice: 2+5 = Virtue+Fourth (Water); 4+4 = Virtue+Fourth (Fire).
Astragali: 1+6+6 = 1st Ogdoad+Virtue+Fourth.
Greek Letter = Kappa: Kuklos = wheel; Kairos = opportunity, circumstances, success, critical time,
place, etc.; Kubernetes = steersman.
Verse:
The Wheel of Fortune turns; while one declines
Another is upraised, but she assigns
The fate who holds the hidden axle pin,
The sacred source where destinies begin.
Ensure each turn of life the soul refines!
Basic Tarot Story
From out of hiding comes the Fool, into the sunlight, as if being pulled up from some low, dark point on a wheel. It is
time for a change. Staff in hand, he heads back out into the world, expecting nothing. But, strangely, things seem to
happen to him as the hours go by, good things. Wandering by a water wheel a woman offers him a drink in a golden
chalice, and then urges him to keep the cup; as he wanders by a windmill, he stops to watch a young man swinging a
sword; when he expresses his admiration of the weapon, the young man presses it into his hand, insisting that he take
it.
And finally, when he comes upon a rich merchant sitting in a wagon, right over one of the wheels, the man hands
him a bag of money. "I decided to give this to the tenth person who walked past me today," explains the Merchant,
"You're the tenth." The Fool hardly thought he could still be surprised, but he is. It is as if everything good that he
ever did in his life is being paid back to him, three-fold. All luck this day is his.
Basic Tarot Meaning
With Jupiter as its ruling planet, the Wheel of Fortune is all about luck and change. The wheel symbolizes
completeness as well as the rise and fall of fortunes and the message that what goes around comes around. Almost
every definition of this card indicates abundance, happiness, elevation, or luck; a change that just happens, and
brings with it great joy.
The wheel represents the inexorable rise and fall of fortune. In her right hand Fortuna holds the tiller by which she
steers the course of events, and in her left she holds the cornucopia, the fruits of respecting her laws.
At Fortuna's right a young and nimble youth ascends with the wheel; his rising station and power sow the seeds of his
inevitable decline, but his sprouting ass's ears show us that he cannot see beyond his immanent triumph. His power
reaches its maturity and he is the king of all he surveys, yet this very power leads to rigidity, which will topple him
with the wheel's revolution. Still the ass, he cannot give up his rigidity although his power falls precipitously. Only
when his fortune bottoms out, does he begin to loosen up, and regain the flexibility that will allow another, hopefully
wiser, ascent. So it is with kings and corporations, societies and schools, fortunes and philosophies.
The alchemist knows Fortuna's law, and can use it beneficially, harnessing the descent as a means of disintegration to
achieve a higher integration. Then the rotation of the elements becomes an ascending spiral. He also knows that,
although the wheel's rim always moves, hidden behind Fortuna's captivating form is the stationary axis, the
unmoving hub, the fixed point immune to changing fortune. This is where he stations himself when he has had
enough of riding Fortune's Wheel.
As much as the Tarot is about what a querent can do to change their life or self, there are cards that admit that
sometimes you just get lucky. Sometimes things happen to you over which you have no control, and you rise of fall
on that turn of the wheel.
This is the card about how we sometimes find ourselves soaring up or down on life's Ferris wheel. The Wheel can
mean movement, change or evolution, and in that respect it can be about how we all change positions, some of us
rising some of us falling, some dropping to a nadir, some reaching a zenith.
Most of the time, however, this card suggests that such changes will bring with them good fortune. The person you're
reading for is going to get that money, that job, that promotion, that marriage proposal, that break they've been
waiting for. Call it karmic payback for all the good things they've done in life - destiny or just luck - but whatever
lotteries are out there, large or small, they've just won one.
11 JUSTICE
Prior Gladii - Principal of the Sword
Motto: Justitia semper librans (Justice, always balancing)
Dice: 5+6 = Final Eternity + Female (Water) = Eternity + Fifth (Fire).
Astragali: 2+3+4 = Eternity + Final + Female.
Greek Letter = Tau: Taxis = an arranging, putting in order, arrangement; Tisis = reward, penalty,
payment, retribution; Tritogeneia = epithet of Athena; Tekhnites = expert, master, artist,
craftsperson.
Trigram: ::: Name: K'un = the Receptive. Image: Earth. The Mother, associated with the frugality
and support; it is level for "the earth knows no partiality." North in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
A balance holds opposing forces, bound
But separate. Herein Harmony is found,
The child of Strife and Love. The keen-edged blade
Divides acutely, truth with wisdom weighed.
By balanced deeds the cosmic mind is crowned.
Basic Tarot Story

The Fool is looking for a new path, a new aspiration and inspiration for his life. Sitting uncertain at a crossroads he
notices a blind wise woman listening to two brothers argue over an inheritance. They have come to her for judgment.
One brother has the whole inheritance, the other has nothing.
"I ask that all of it be given to me," the poor brother demands, "Not only because I have a better right to it, but
because I will not be wasteful with it, as he is!" But the rich brother protests, "It is rightfully mine and that's all that
should matter, not what I do with it!"
The woman listens, then awards half of the rich brother's inheritance to the poor brother. The Fool thinks this only
fair, but neither brother is happy. The rich one hates losing half his wealth, and the poor one feels he ought to have
gotten all.
"You were fair," the Fool remarks to the woman after the brothers have left. "Yes, I was," she answers plainly. "With
only half the inheritance, the rich one will stop being so wasteful. And the poor one will have as much as he needs.
Even though they cannot see it, this decision was good for both."
The Fool thinks on this and realizes that he has spent his life achieving worldly ambitions and physical goods while
leaving his spiritual self to starve. He ought to have given half his time and energy to his spiritual self, but he didn't.
It's no wonder that he feels unbalanced. Thanking the woman, he heads out to restore equilibrium to his inner
scales.
Basic Tarot Meaning
With Libra as its ruling sign, Justice is about cold, objective balance through reason or natural force. This is the card
that tells the querent that excesses have consequences. Indulging in drinking and drugs will affect their health, just as
excessive exercise can damage muscles and joints and working too much can make one neglect family and friends.
Justice urges the querent to make adjustments, do whatever is necessary to bring things back into balance: physically,
emotionally, socially, spiritually. In a more mundane sense, this card may signal a court case, legal documents,
adjustments in a marriage or partnership. The outcome of all of these may not be exactly what the querent wants,
but it will be what they need. It will also be scrupulously fair. If the card is reversed, it can indicate bias, obstruction
of the law, or legal complications.
This trump represents the "right order" of the universe, especially balance, whether in the physical world, such as the
equilibrium of forces, or in the spiritual world, such as the complementarity of the conscious and unconscious, of
reason and emotion, of logic and intuition, and so forth. Achieving such balance is not a simple matter of numerical
equality, for fair (just) use of the scales requires a steady hand and a good eye. This skill is finely honed, like the
sword, and like the fulcrum of the balance, which must be razor sharp in a sensitive instrument.
True justice tempers measurement with wisdom, and masculine discrimination with feminine compassion: fire with
water. Athena achieves this by combining blade, beam and scales: Although the scales are separated and pull in
opposite directions, the beam connects them ("love") and converts their "strife" into a higher order of cooperation,
which leads to equilibrium ("harmony"). Wisdom constructs such a balance whenever she finds differences, whether
in head or heart, or in psyche or society.
I think Justice is a good card (as compared to Strength) to stand as the first of the next ten cards of the Major
Arcana. The reason I think it right is because with it we move from the physical world (first ten cards) into the
metaphysical world (next ten). When I look at Justice, I always see the two worlds balanced on her scales. "You've
spent all your time in one," she seems to be saying, time to move into the other and balance things out."
One thing to remember about the Justice card is that it is not about punishment, good, bad, right or wrong. It is
about adjustment. The sword suggests that sometimes this won't be pleasant. Justice pares things down with that
sword so that the scales end up equal. Swords represent the mind and suggest that Justice only listens to reason, logic
and facts. She will not be tricked by appeals to emotions or passions, nor bribed for that matter. She will be rational
and cool-headed.
The message is to that you must be cool-headed as well, and do what's necessary, no matter how hard, how
disagreeable, in order to gain, or re-gain equilibrium. It is not a nice card, but it is a very wise card.
12 THE HANGED MAN

Secundus Sceptri - Second of the Sceptre
Motto: Pendens proditor, regrediturus ad uterum. (Hanging traitor, about to return to the womb.)
Dice: 3+3 = Time + Male (Water); 5+2 = Time + Second (Fire).
Astragali: 4+4+5 = Second of Triumph of Time
Greek Letter = Mu: Meteoros = suspended in the air, being in suspense, anxious; Menuo = to betray,
inform, make known, denounce; Metastasis = banishment, revolution; Mueo = to initiate into the
mysteries.
Trigram: I:: Name: Chen = the Arousing. Image: Thunder. The First Son, associated with initiative,
action, incisiveness, vehemence, strength. Southeast in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
Desiring revolution, he betrayed
His world; by choice the painful price is paid.
Hanging above the Abyss by Heaven's chains,
He calmly waits for freedom from his pains.
Who dives within the womb will be remade!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool settles beneath a tree, intent on finding his spiritual self. There he stays for nine days, without eating, barely
moving. People pass by him, animals, clouds, the wind, the rain, the stars, sun and moon. On the ninth day, with no
conscious thought of why, he climbs the tree and dangles from a branch upside down like a child. For a moment, he
surrenders all that he is, wants, knows or cares about. Coins fall from his pockets and as he gazes down on them seeing them not as money but only as round bits of metal.
It seems to him that his perspective of the world has completely changed, as if his inverted position has allowed him
to dangle between the mundane world and the spiritual world, able to see both. It is a dazzling moment, dreamlike
yet crystal clear.
Timeless as this moment of clarity seems, he realizes that it will not last. Very soon, he must right himself, but when
he does, things will be different. He will have to act on what he's learned. For now, however, he just hangs, weightless
as if underwater, observing, absorbing, seeing.
Basic Tarot Meaning

With Neptune (or Water) as its planet, the Hanged Man is perhaps the most fascinating card in the deck. At #12, it is
the opposite of the Cosmos card, #21. With the Cosmos card you go infinitely out. With the Hanged Man, you go
infinitely in.
Some readers believe the Hanged Man reflects the story of Odin who offered himself as a sacrifice in order to gain
knowledge. Hanging from the world tree, wounded by a spear, given no bread or mead, he dangled for nine days. On
the last day, he saw on the ground runes that had fallen from the tree, understood their meaning, and, coming down,
scooped them up for his own. All knowledge is to be found in these runes.
Other readers like to point out that in older decks the card was known as "The Traitor," referring to the fact that,
historically, some countries hung traitors upside-down by one foot.
And still other readers like to point out that the Hanged Man is like that moment when a babe in the womb turns
upside-down so that it may be born, hanging, as it were, from it's umbilical cord.
The Hanged Man is similar to all of these: like Odin, he allows himself to be hung so that he can gain wisdom for
the world. Like traitors of old, be sacrifices himself for a cause, and sees things from an "inverted" perspective. What
is right to him is wrong to others and vice versa. And like the babe in the womb, the Hanged Man hangs suspended
between one world (the womb) and the next (outside the womb).
What is important to remember is that this is a card about suspension, not life or death. The querent might well feel
that one thing has ended, yet the next has not begun, and they are stuck in a kind of waiting room. Things will
continue on in a moment, but for now, they float, timeless.
Yet this isn't just a position of rest as the querent is inverted. Which means so is his/her view of the world is very
different from the rest of us who walk upright. Thus, this waiting becomes a time of trial or meditation, selflessness,
sacrifice, prophecy. This new way of seeing things often leads to insights and enlightenment. Answers that eluded the
querent become clear, solutions to problems are found. All of which the Hanged Man hoped to buy with his
sacrifice.
The Hanged Traitor represents the unavoidable torments of overturning an old order and of a voluntary sacrifice
for the sake of spiritual rebirth. Such a transformation cannot be carried out rationally; rather, the seeker must
commit himself to fate, and have faith that Fortune will dissolve the old order and give birth to a new one. Therefore,
he is "dependent" on his left leg, representing the unconscious, and makes no use of his right, representing conscious
action.
Stripped of his dignity, the seeker hangs head down, which symbolizes the debasement of his rationality. He is
waiting, in suspension, on tenterhooks, dangling over the abyss, poised between heaven and hell. The tree,
representing the central axis of existence, would provide everything he needs or wants, but he cannot reach it.
Though he is tortured every day (as shown by the open wound), he patiently awaits a redeemer, for he knows that if
he tries to save himself, he will plummet into the abyss.
Thus the Hanged Traitor represents suspension and depression as prerequisites to spiritual rebirth.
The first step into the esoteric, we might well say, is to shed the mundane world and be "reborn." To do this, we must
surrender all we thought we knew, all resistance to new ways of thinking. We must make ourselves venerable to
visions and psychic energies. We must, if you like, return to "the womb," a spiritual womb this time around. The one
belonging to the High Priestess who, remember, sits at that still place between opposites.
This the Hanged Man does when he willingly allows himself to be suspended and dangle inverted from one leg.
Neptune is spirituality, dreams and psychic abilities, and the Hanged Man has allowed himself to be lowered into
those deep waters, floating there, absorbing all they offer him. He is waiting for that moment when he will be born
into a new consciousness.
Thus, this card signifies a time when the querent is feeling sensitive, vulnerable, introverted, suspended even as they
also experience insight so deep that for a moment, nothing but that insight exists. This is the card of vision quests but
also, very simply, of those times when you put aside your prejudices and open yourself up to different ideas. Or just
try something new and strange. Meaning that the Hanged Man could be as simple as going out with a type of
person you never imagined dating, or trying some odd cuisine. It is a time when you change your perspective.
Such moments don't last, and they usually require some kind of sacrifice. Sacrifice of a belief or a wish, dream,
hope, money, time or even selfhood. The sacrifice may be made to get into the inverted position, or it may be made
to get out of the inverted position. Either way, in order to gain, you must give. Great or small, spiritual or mundane
what you gain from making that sacrifice and allowing yourself to see things differently is insights and solutions.
These can help you and everyone else you care about. Which is often why one goes through it all in the first place.
One thing is certain, once you have been the Hanged Man you never see things quite as you did before.
13 DEATH
Prior Sceptri - First of the Sceptre
Motto: Sum fine. (I am the end.)
Dice: 3+4 = Time + 4.Mother/II.Separation (Water); 5+3 = Time + 3.Initial Completion (Fire).
Astragali: 4+6+6 = Time + III.Initial Completion.
Greek Letter = Nu: Nekros = corpse; Nerteros = lower, nether, infernal.
Trigram: :II Name: Sun = the Gentle. Image: Wind, Wood. The First Daughter, associated with
completion, penetration, vehemence, changeability, odor, grey hair. "All living things ... come to
completion in the Gentle" (Shuo Kua ch. 2).
Verse:
The Lord of Death is paid in bitter coin
For dissolution, hoping he'll rejoin
The scattered parts, far better rearranged,
For callous Death's decrees cannot be changed.
"Accept thy fated end," he doth enjoin.
Basic Tarot Story
Having left the tree from where he hung, the Fool moves carefully through a fallow field, head still clearing from
visions. The air is cold and wintry, the trees bare. He knows he has started on his spiritual journey in earnest, but
feels strangely empty and profoundly sad, as if he has lost something.
Before him he sees, rising with the sun, a skeleton in black armor mounted on a white horse. He recognizes it as
Death. As it stops before him, he humbly asks, "Have I died?" And the Skeleton answers, "Yes, in a way. You
sacrificed your old world, your old self. Both are gone, dead."
The Fool cannot keep from weeping. "Forgive me," he says, embarrassed by his tears.
"There is nothing to forgive," Death replies. "Mourning is natural and you must deal with your loss before you can
accept anything new. Keep in mind, however, that old leaves must wither and fly away from a tree's branches, leaving
them bare, before new green leaves can appear."
As Death rides away, the Fool sees the truth in those words. He, too, feels like a skeleton, all that he was stripped
away. This, he understands, is how all great transformations start, by removing everything down to bare bone or soil
so that something new has room to grow.
Basic Tarot Meaning
Perhaps the most common question asked about Tarot Cards is, "Can the Death card mean a real death?"
Yes, it can. The Death card is about endings, and that includes the ending of a life. What everyone seems to forget,
however, is that the Death card is not exclusively about the end of a human life. In fact, it's far more likely that the
card is telling you that a goldfish or a houseplant will die. Death can mean the "end" of anything: The end of an era,
the end of a trip, the closing of a restaurant, the breaking up of a band, the conclusion of a very rough week. Any
and all of these as well as a million more possible interpretations can be applied to the Death card. So it is foolish to
fear it for the fact that, once in a great while, it will let you know that some sick, elderly relative might not be long for
this world.
Even more important to remember: the Death card is less about something dying then about how a person deals
with endings.
We might be delighted that something is finally over and done with, like a terrible job we hated. Or we might be
heartbroken, like over the loss of that poor goldfish. Either way, we require time to come to terms with the fact that
something we were used to is no longer a part of our lives.
With Scorpio as its sign, the Death card is as much about transformation as about loss. Scorpio has three forms:
scorpion, serpent, eagle. The Death card indicates this transition from lower to higher to highest. In addition,
Scorpio is also about sex. So even as something is taken from us, something new is created.
That new thing will not be the same as what was lost, but it will step into that empty space and give us reason to
carry on.
The Triumph of Death signals the end of a life, and the impossibility of a return. This applies equally to physical
death, which ends earthly existence, and to the little deaths that mark our movement from one phase of life to
another.
Death is an absolute transition, a discontinuous break in life, for no one can say what, if any, life lies beyond death. Is
the cornucopia filled with riches or is it empty? Has Pluto poured us a rejuvenating libation, or shown us that the
dish is dry? We cannot know.
Death's robe is black (the color of mourning in the West) and his armor is bone white (the color of mourning in the
East). His costume marks the two sides of the transition of Death, the black putrefaction, the nigredo, which reduces
our life to its elementary constituents, to featureless prima materia; and the albedo, the creation of the white matter,
which is pure and all colors equally; it provides a malleable neutral ground ready to take on new color and form.
The body parts show Death as the universal solvent, decomposing prince and pauper alike; they also show the
dissolution of our standpoints (feet), activities (hands) and ideas (heads), even of our principle idea (the prince's head).
The scythe reminds us that death should be a harvest, the time when we reap the rewards of one season of life, and
sow the seeds for the next.
The skeleton is the frame of life, the root of both rigidity and flexibility, of both stability and change. It is the central
core of equilibrium and action, which is all that's left when the fleshy mask of the persona has been removed.
The connection of sex and death in Scorpio (the sign stands for both) is a strong indication of what this card is all
about. We westerners see "Death" as a frightening card because we often see Death as an end, and we hate for things
to come to an end. However, in other traditions, Death is just a natural and important, if sad part of an on-going
cycle. In a karmic sense, you die so that you may be reborn. Winter comes so that there can be a spring, and we can
only appreciate what we have when we know that there is loss. The Death card signals such things. This is a time of
change.
Before or even as this change occurs, however, the querent needs to mourn, cry, and grieve. Wang notes that Death
"humbles" all. Which means that we are brought low, feel empty or stripped to the bone. Once we have gone
through this low point, however, we will find that there is room for something new, fresh or different to come into our
lives. Something that might exult or transform us. So while a Tarot Reader needs to tell their querent, quite honestly,
that they will be going through a time of sorrow and mourning, we can also tell them that this, too, is not forever.
Our sadness will end in a sunrise, in a newborn phoenix rising from the ashes of the old.
14 TEMPERANCE
Magistra Poculi - Mistress of the Cup
Motto: Ne quid nimis. (Nothing in excess.)
Dice: 2+2 = Virtue + 2.Female/I.Source (Water); 4+1 = Virtue + 1.Source (Fire).
Astragali: 1+6+1 = Pers. Tr. + Virtue + I.Source.
Greek Letter = Eta: Eos = Daybreak, Dawn, Aurora; Hebe = Youth; Henis = yearling.
Trigram: ::I Name: Ken = Keeping Still. Image: Mountain. The Third Daughter, associated with
stopping, stillness and keeping still. Southwest in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Child Divine is born of Moon and Sun.
She tempers wine with water, never done
With mixing, and her rainbow joins the poles,
For she's the messenger and guide of souls.
Accept her cup, and let the two be one.
Basic Tarot Story
Recovering from feelings of loss at last, the Fool begins to wonder if he will finally find the new spirituality he's after.
It occurs to him that so far, he's been dealing with opposites: the two opposing sides of the scales (Justice), the
material and spiritual (which he hung between as the Hanged man), death and birth (the one leading into the other
in the Death card). Does one always have to be surrendered to get the other? he wonders.
It is at this point that he comes upon a winged figure standing with one foot in a brook, the other on a rock. The
radiant creature pours something from one flask into another. Drawing closer, the Fool sees that what is being poured
from one flask is fire, while water flows from the other. The two are being blended together into a completely
different substance!
"How can you mix fire and water?" the Fool finally whispers. Never pausing the Angel answers, "You must have the
right vessels and use the right proportions."
The Fool watches with wonder. "Can this be done with all opposites?" he asks. "Indeed," the Angel replies, "Any
oppositions, fire and water, man and woman, thesis and anti-thesis, can be made into a unified third. It is only a lack
of will and a disbelief in the possibility that keeps opposites, opposite." And that is when the Fool begins to
understand that he is the one who is keeping his universe in twain, holding life/death, material world and spiritual
world separate. In him the two could merge. All it takes, the Fool realizes, is the right proportions, the right vessel and
enough faith that the two can be unified.
Basic Tarot Meaning
It is hard, at first, to see where Sagittarius, the ruling sign of this card, fits in. Sagittarius is an expansive sign and we
often identify Temperance with abstinence. Temperance, however, really means moderation. Thus, you don't give up
wine, but rather cut the wine with water.
There is, however, another angle to the card, that of "tempering" or transforming-thus we continue on from Death,
which prepared us for transformation. With tempering, iron is transformed into steel with heating and cooling, fire
and water.
Similarly, Sagittarius, the centaur, is another one of those creatures that merges beast and man into something
unique. Yet not so unique as men and horses have often "merged" together, the one on the back of the other to form
a unit. And then there is the bow and arrow, one moving, one stationary, working together to point the way.
Temperance may be, at first glance, a warning to "temper" your behavior, but it may also be a reminder that
seemingly irreconcilable opposites may not be irreconcilable.
Sagittarius is a sign of optimism, philosophy, and taking risks. This card urges the querent to have faith that they can
merge fiery red and watery blue into otherworldly violet. But they will need to experiment, have confidence, and try,
try, again.
In 6.Love, the Mother and Father were united; the Father was consumed by conception and the Mother was
consumed by the child in her womb. Thus each met their dissolution, thereby implementing the alchemical Solve. In
7.Temperance the Father's Fire and the Mother's Water find new embodiment in the Divine Child, and thereby
implement the complementary alchemical Coagule. Mistress Temperance is simultaneously the Divine Child and the
alchemist alter-ego of Mercury the Magician, for she brings about the fixation of the volatile and the volatilization of
the fixed, which engenders the Child. In this way she decants the soul to purify it. The Child comprises all the
oppositions of her parents, conscious with unconscious, thought with feeling, intuition with sensation; she is the
integrated Self and is destined to undergo the initiation of the remaining trumps.
In many ways, this card is about the Sagittarian desire to find a unified field theory, a way of blending opposites,
achieving synthesis. Crowley calls the card: "Alchemy" and that might well be the best definition for it. In fact, it
sometimes works best for me to imagine the Angel wearing a lab coat and very carefully pouring measured amounts
of colored liquids into beakers rather than cups.
One thing to remember is that Temperance isn't about surrendering either the water or the wine. It is about mixing
things until you get exactly what you want, which is usually a perfect blend of the two.
In a reading, this card often represents a situation where the querent can't get opposites to "blend" together (choices,
belief systems, families, friends) and may feel that they have to give up something. Temperance tells the querent that
they don't have to do that. It says that a synthesis can be achieved if the querent is willing to keep on trying,
experimenting, and adjusting the amounts. The Querent might, for example, be trying to merge two full families
when blending has to occur bit by bit with individuals. This is where the "moderation" message comes in. Try to
make your ambition more realistic and you might well achieve it.
The card is also a reminder that a bow and arrow are useless apart, but together a formidable weapon. This card
tells the querent that they CAN and should put thesis and anti-thesis together to get the even more useful synthesis.
But it will take time, care, patience and experimentation. And, yes, moderation.
15 THE DEVIL
Secundus Pentaculi - Second of the Pentacle
Motto: Materia semper appetit formam. (Matter always desires form.)
Dice: 3+5 = Time + 5.Father/III.Joining/Generation (Water); 5+4 = Time + 4.Authority/
Materialization/Birth (Fire).
Astragali: 6+6+6 = Time + IV.Authority/Materialization/Birth.
Greek Letter = : Xi: Xulos = lumbar, firewood, beam; Xaino = to comb, card, beat, thrash; Xanthizo
= to brown by roasting or frying.
Trigram: ::I Name: Ken = Keeping Still. Image: Mountain. The Third Daughter, associated with
stopping, bringing about standstill, preventing expansion, a sign which brings about perfection.
Southwest in the Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Master of the melting blaze creates
Material things, and draws together mates
In hot embrace. He works from depths obscure;
To bring him to the Light, the only cure,
Reveal and seize the force he radiates!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool comes to the foot of an enormous black mountain where reigns a creature half goat, half god. At his
hooves naked people, linked to the god's throne by chains, engage in every indulgence imaginable: sex, drugs, food,
drink. The closer the Fool gets, the more he feels his own earthly desires rising in him. Carnal desires, hunger for
food and power, greed and selfishness. "I have given up all such desires!" he roars at the Goat god, resisting the
beast's power with all his might. He is sure that this is a test of his new spirituality, one where he must prove that the
temptations of the material world cannot sway him.
The creature responds to his defiance with a curious look. "All I am doing is bringing out what is already in you," it
responds mildly. "Such feelings are nothing to fear, nothing to be ashamed of, or even to avoid. They are even useful
to helping you in your quest for spirituality, though many try to pretend otherwise."
The Fool gestures angrily at the chained men and women, "You say that even though these are clearly enslaved to
the material world?"
The Goat-god mimics the Fool's gesture. "Take another look." The Fool does so, and realizes that the chained collars
the men and women wear are wide enough for them to easily slip off over their heads. "They can be free if they wish
to be," the Goat-god says, "They remain here because they want to be controlled by their base, bestial desires. There
are, however, others."
At this the Goat-god gestures upward, toward the peak of the mountain. "Others who have used these same
impulses to climb to the highest heights. If they had denied their desires they'd never have gotten there."
On hearing this, the Fool sees that he has mistaken the Goat-god. This is not a creature of evil as he thought, but of
great power, the lowest and the highest, both of beast and god. Like all power, it is frightening, and dangerous...but it
is also a key to freedom and transcendence.
Basic Tarot Meaning
Perhaps the most misunderstood card of all the major arcana, the Devil is not really "Satan" at all, but Pan the halfgoat nature god and/or Dionysius (Bacchus). These are gods of pleasure and abandon, of wild behavior and
unbridled desires. Sometimes, this card says, it is good to dance with Bacchus, surrendering control, or be Bacchus
and manipulate. Too much restraint can hold you back and keep you from achieving important things.
In this regard, we might say that this card is about being honest with yourself. What do you desire? What gives you
pleasure? What has power over you (and will enslave you if you let it), and what makes you feel powerful (and will
help you reach your highest goals)?
With Capricorn as its ruling sign, the Devil is also a card about ambitions, about commitment and resourcefulness.
This is the mountain goat that aims to get to the top and does all its needs to do to get there.
As a person, the Devil can stand for a man or woman of money or erotic power, aggressive, controlling, or just
persuasive. This is not to say a bad person, but certainly a powerful person who is hard to resist. The querent needs
to watch themselves lest they end up needing this powerful person to give them identity. On the other hand, the
querent might find themselves in "Devil" mode, egging others on, playing puppet-master. This, too, can become their
identity. Thus, the addict and pusher can create a co-dependent relationship that is not healthy for either.
When not indicating a person, the Devil card is synonymous with temptation and addiction, anything that we find
hard to resist be it chocolate, sex or heroin. Readers should ask querents if there's anything they've been having
trouble resisting of late. It is important to point out, as the card does, that, often (though not always), we don't resist
is because we don't want to. This needs to be recognized and acknowledge as it means that the power to change the
situation is with us, not with what tempts us.
The Devil represents material creation in all its manifestations, including sex as a means of natural generation,
metabolism as a means of growth, fire as a means of artistic creation, technology, art, craft - and the alchemical
Great Work. Material creation is necessary for life, and may even be a path to enlightenment, but fascination with it
can entrap us. If these acts of creation are undertaken unconsciously and negligently, as the two thralls do, then they
deliver themselves into bondage, for the golden chain is loose, and only their own ignorance and reluctance to see
keeps them bound in slavery, like zombies or automata.
The Devil - human, beast and god in one - is Nature, and there is much power and beauty in our instincts, appetites
and drives in the material world. But Nature, as a component of the psyche, is mostly unconscious, and operates
behind our backs. Thus it is with all the shadowy components of ourselves, all the disowned parts of our psyches;
they make themselves visible by being projected onto other people and onto the world at large. This trump calls on
each of us to confront our Shadow, not to deny or destroy it, but to acknowledge its reality, own it as a part of us,
understand its nature and reorient it toward the good.
Most cards urge balance, unity, restraint, yin-yang. Not this card. The Devil, to the contrary, is a card that revels in
extremity, excess and loss of control. There is a convincing argument that this is the most powerful and dangerous
card in the deck. At its absolute worst, it is the card of the addict or the stalker, totally obsessed, enslaved, relentless.
At its very best, it is a card about cutting lose, going for the gold, climbing every mountain.
There are, I think, three essential points that a reader must make when this card appears. First, that we have to be
honest about our weaknesses and addictions, denial only makes it easier for them to control us. Second, that it is
natural to have self-interest, a desire for pleasure even and, occasionally, to indulge in excesses. Doing so might even
be essential to achieving our aims. We didn't fly to the Moon by being moderate, safe or cautious, by resisting
temptation.
However, and this is the last point, it is all too easy to become enslaved to the power of such pleasures and excesses.
The most powerful person is the one who can consciously decide when to indulge, and when to walk away from
indulging without hesitation or regret.
This card is about temptation and control, addictions and manipulation. It asks us a most important question: who
or what will we allow to enslave us? And who or what will be under our control? Only by understanding this part of
ourselves can we gain power over it and use it to our benefit rather than letting it use us.
16 THE TOWER
Prior Pentaculi - First of the Pentacle
Motto: Dant clara incendia lucem. (Bright blazes bring illumination.)
Dice: 3+6 = Time + 6.Offspring/IV.Justice/Return (Water); 5+5 = Time + 5.Crisis (Fire).
Astragali: 3+6+6 = Time + V.Crisis.
Greek Letter = Omicron: Omphalos = navel, center; Oikopedon = ruins of a house; Olethros =
destruction, ruin.
Trigram: II: Name: Tui = the Joyous. Image: Lake. The Third Son. Northeast in the Earlier Heaven.
The Joyous "means smashing and breaking apart; it means dropping off and bursting open" (Shuo
Kua ch. 3).
Verse:
The lightning bolt destroys the outworn walls.
Two characters are overthrown; each falls,
Returns to Mother Earth. The Sacred Mound
Is quickened; there the spark of life is found.
Accept the holy blast that overhauls!
Basic Tarot Story
As the Fool leaves the throne of the Goat God, he comes upon a Tower, fantastic, magnificent, and familiar. In fact,
The Fool, himself, helped build this Tower back when the most important thing to him was making his mark on the
world and proving himself better than other men. Inside the Tower, at the top, arrogant men still live, convinced of
their rightness.
Seeing the Tower again, the Fool feels as if lightning has just flashed across his mind; he thought he'd left that old self
behind when he started on this spiritual journey. But he realizes now that he hasn't. He's been seeing himself, like the
Tower, like the men inside, as alone and singular and superior, when in fact, he is no such thing.
So captured is he by the shock of this insight, that he opens his mouth and releases a SHOUT! And to his
astonishment and terror, a bolt of actual lightning slashes down from the heavens striking the Tower and sending its
residents leaping out into the waters below.
In a moment, it is over. The Tower is rubble, only rocks remaining. Stunned and shaken to the core, the Fool
experiences profound fear and disbelief. But also, a strange clarity of vision, as if his inner eye has finally opened. He
tore down his resistance to change and sacrifice (Hanged man), then came to terms with Death (Death); he learned
about moderation and synthesis (Temperance) and about power (The Devil). But here and now, he has done what
was hardest: he destroyed the lies of his life. What's left are the foundations of truth. On this he can rebuild himself.
Basic Tarot Meaning
With Mars as its ruling planet, the Tower is a card about war, a war between the structures of lies and the lightning
flash of truth. This is a card about anything we believe to be true, but later learn is false. This realization usually
comes as a shock, hence, the violent image. It is, quite simply, that moment in any story where someone finds out a
shocking truth, one that shatters their perceptions and makes them reassess their beliefs.
When the Querent gets this card, they can expect to be shaken up, blinded by a revelation. It sometimes takes a very
bright flash of light to reveal a truth that was so well hidden. And it sometimes takes an earthquake to bring down
beliefs that were so cleverly constructed. What's most important to remember is that the tearing down of this
structure, however painful, allows us to find out what is true and reliable. What will stand rather than fall apart.
The tower is ambiguous: is it a fortress or a prison? Indeed there is little difference, for we easily may become
prisoners of our own defenses.
The tower is the World Axis, the center of being, and the divine illumination has struck at its core, demolishing it,
but igniting in its depths the spark of new life. The falling figures, representing head and heart (reason and emotion),
were imprisoned in the tower's dogma and defenses. Though now released, before they can be reborn they must
"come back to the earth" of the body and must be submerged in the Abyssal waters of the unconscious, which have
been quickened by the lightning. The manna from heaven, falling around them, will sustain them through the trials
of this transformation.
The Tower is one of the clearest cards when it comes to meaning. False structures, false institutions, false beliefs are
going to come (or have already come) tumbling down, suddenly, violently and all at once. This sort of prediction can
scare anyone, especially as the one you're reading for likely does not know that something is false. Not yet. To the
contrary, they probably believe that their lover is being faithful, that their religious beliefs are true and right, that
there are no problems in their family structure, that everything is fine at work...oh, and that they're fine. Just fine,
really.
Alas, they're about to get a very rude awakening. Shaken up, torn down, blown asunder. And all a reader can really
do to soften the blow is assure the querent that it is for the best. Nothing built on a lie, on falsehoods, can remain
standing for long. Better for it to come down so that it can be rebuilt on truth-or not rebuilt at all, if that's what seems
best. This rude awakening is not going to be pleasant or painless or easy, but it will be for the best in the end.
17 THE STAR
Domina Necessitatis - Lady of Necessity
Suit: Cups - Element: Water - Direction: Northwest
Motto: Filia Terrae et Coeli Stellati (Child of Earth and Starry Heaven)
Dice: 4+4 = Celestial Eternity + I.Source (Water); 6+1 = Eternity + 1.Source (Fire).
Astragali: 3+3+3 = Eternity + I.Source.
Greek Letter = Pi: Palirroos = back-flowing, reciprocating, recurring; Pistis = trust, faith, belief,
assurance; Parthenos = maiden, young woman
Verse:
The Child of Earth and Starry Heaven waits,
Attending to decrees of Stars and Fates,
While through her hands the waters ebb and flow
In Cosmic Rhythm, then descend below.
She marks the time, and Destiny creates!
Basic Tarot Story
On the bleak landscape where the Tower stood, the Fool sits, empty, despairing. He hoped to find direction on this
spiritual journey, a path to his spiritual self, but having just learned that most of his life was a lie, he now feels lost.
Sitting on the cold stones, he gazes up at the night sky wishing for some kind of guide. And that is when he notices,
nearby, a beautiful girl with two water urns. As he watches, she kneels by a pool of water illuminated with reflected
starlight. She empties the urns, one into the pool, one onto the thirsty ground.
"What are you doing," he asks her. She looks up at him, her eyes twinkling like stars. "I am refilling this pool, so that
those who are thirsty may drink, and I am also watering the earth so that more fruit trees will grow to feed those who
are hungry." She nods back to a single fruit tree that stands nearby, a nightingale singing amid its branches.
"Come," she invites. "Sate your hunger and quench your thirst."
The Fool plucks some fruit from the tree, then kneels by her and drinks from the pool. The water tastes wonderful,
like liquid starlight, and the fruit is equally delicious. Both help to heal his wounded heart.
Having quenched his thirst and sated his hunger, the Fool lays back to gaze up at the stars. "They're so beautiful," he
said, "but so distant."
"Like possible futures," agrees the girl. "Cool and distant. Yet if you keep one in sight, it can guide you to your
destination no matter how far away it is." Even as she says this, she began to fade away, like dew, vanishing. All that
remains is a gleam that was at the center of her forehead. This rises up and up, until it settles in the night sky as a
shining star. "Follow your star," the woman's voice seems to sing from that light, "and have hope."
The Fool takes in a breath and rises. It is a dark night, a desolate land. But for the first time, he has a guiding light to
show him the way. Distant as it is, it restores his faith.
Basic Tarot Meaning
With Aquarius as its ruling sign, The Star is a card that looks to the future. It does not predict any immediate or
powerful change, but it does predict hope and healing, even unexpected help to offer us sustenance in bleak times.
Thus, the card says that there is aid and assistance out there to help us though hard times, like organizations that
offer food and shelter in the wake of a terrible flood or fire. This assistance might, to us, be a friend or counselor, an
uplifting book or music, anything that appears in our life and heals our wounded spirit. More, the card tells us that
we can achieve what we most want to achieve, like flood or fire victims wanting to rebuild. This future, however,
won't be growing to full size overnight like Jack's Beanstalk. It will take time and we must not lose sight of it.
This may seem like cold comfort. No one wants to hear that the person they're interested is not interested in them,
but will be in the future. Or that they will not succeed today, but will later on in their life. Still, it is there, a glimmer
of light in the darkness. The question is, do we feel it's worth waiting for or not?
That is the question the Star makes us ask ourselves: What do we want bad enough that we will go the distance for
it? The answer will tell us as much about what we are as what we could be.
XVI.Star represents the entrusting of oneself to Fate, who is viewed as a benevolent force. Thus the Star symbolizes
Hope, and we call the woman Spes or Elpis. This hope is not a rational expectation of improving fortunes, but an
intuitive faith in the workings of the cosmos, for the Star represents cosmic law: astrology (aster + logos = the
principle of the stars) and astronomy (aster + nomos = the law of the stars) in their primary senses. Nor is this hope
founded upon a conscious plan for the future. Rather the trump symbolizes the nurturing of unconscious processes
and the patient wait for their rejuvenating guidance. The many dualities and oppositions in the image represent the
subjection of hope to conscious discrimination, but Elpis represents the conscious mind's willing surrender to the
unconscious, giving oneself over to the flow.
The Star is one of those cards that almost everyone loves. It is often the most beautiful card in the deck and its image
suggests the peace and harmony of its meaning.
While this card offers hope and possibilities, however, the reader must remember that these are in the distance. Only
a time of healing and peace, like the oasis of water before the Star, are in the now. Like Aquarius, the card's vision is
for tomorrow. This means that if the querent is seeking love, a career, fame, wealth or even spiritual enlightenment,
they can only be told that it is a possibility. It is not going to happen anytime soon. But if, like a ship navigating its
way, they keep the star in their sights, they will eventually reach that other land they're seeking.
The Star offers no guarantees, of course, that the traveler won't tire and give up or be lured in another direction.
And there is no telling what obstacles they'll encounter along the way. All the Star promises is that a particular future
can exist.
The Star offers peace and healing and a glimpse of the future. It is up to the querent to decide if they are willing to
go after that future, no matter how long it may take them to get there.
18 THE MOON
Secunda Poculi - Second of the Cup
Motto: Roris Nutrix Benigna (Bountiful Nurse of the Dew)
Dice: 4+5 = Celestial Eternity + II.Change/Female (Water); 6+2 = Eternity + 2.Change/Female
(Fire).
Astragali: 3+3+4 = Eternity + II.Change/Female.
Greek Letter = Qoppa: Qolpos = womb, depth, bosom; Quon = dog, bitch.
Trigram: :I: Name: K'an = the Abysmal. Image: Water, Rain, Moon. The Second Daughter,
associated with passion, danger, repetitive bending, penetration. West in Earlier Heaven.
Verse:
The Nascent Moon commands the sunless skies,
And offers wisdom to whoever tries
To cross the desert. Guardians must be
Appeased to make the passage from the Sea.
Approach the dreadful Dark with insight's eyes!
Basic Tarot Story

Following the star the Fool travels through the night. The full Moon rises, illuminating for him a watery path. And he
begins to feel disoriented, as if walking in his sleep. He passes under the moon, between two pillars ancient and
strange. Suddenly, he looks around to find himself in another land entirely. When he was in the presence of the High
Priestess, he saw hints of this dark land through the sheer veil draped behind her throne. And later, when he hung
from the tree, he felt himself between the physical world and this one. Now, he has at last passed behind the veil.
Here are the mysteries he sought, the darkest mysteries, ones that have to do with the most primal and ancient
powers. It is a land poets, artists, musicians and madmen know well, a terrifying, alluring place, with very different
rules. Wolves run wild across this land, hunting along side maidens with bow and arrows. Creatures from childhood
nightmares and fantasies peer from shadows, eyes glowing.
The path the Fool was walking is now a river, and he stands hip-deep in the powerful pull of its salty waters. There is,
on the nearby shore, a small boat, but it has no rudder, no oar. The Fool realizes he has only two choices. He can lose
himself in this desolate, primal land of madness and illusion, howl with the wolves, be hunted down, or he can get
into the boat and trust himself to the river. The moon will be in control either way, but in the boat his surrender to
the powers of the unconscious will at least take him somewhere.
Inspiration, visions and genius are the rewards of such surrender to the Moon's Magic, as artists, poets and seers
know. The Fool gets into the boat, and shoves off. As the waters sweep him away, moonbeams light his "path" and he
feels the Mistress of this dark land gazing down at him with the High Priestess's approving eyes.
Basic Meaning
With Pisces as its ruling sign, the Moon is all about visions and illusions, madness, genius and poetry. At its darkest
this can be a very scary card warning the querent of hidden enemies, mental illness, alcoholic blackouts or a bad
drug trip. At its very best, however, the Moon is a card of genius, of mental breakthroughs, astonishing creativity,
powerful magic, and intuition.
The querent who gets this card should be warned that they may be going through a time of emotional and mental
trial, a time when they'll do things that seem to make sense to them, yet when they come out of it they'll wonder,
"Why did I do that? It makes no sense!" Their mind will be playing tricks on them, and so this is not a good time for
making decisions that require rational thought and a clear head.
This card can, likewise, signal a crazy time for relationships. Whirlwind romances, powerful and dreamlike, but not
trustworthy. For families and friends this is a time of emotional ups and downs.
If the querent has any past mental problems, they must be vigilant in taking their medication and seeing their
therapist. They should avoid recreational drugs or alcohol, they will have a bad reaction if they take either. At the
same time, the Moon signals great creativity, enhanced psychic powers, visions. The querent's judgment may not be
trustworthy, but they will have intuitive flashes that are remarkably accurate.
XVII.Moon symbolizes the last trial before rebirth, the final plunge into the unconscious sea and confrontation with
its monsters before the climactic journey into the new dawn. As a consequence, ambivalence between opportunity
and danger pervades the scene. We are at the far edge of Ocean, the deep salt sea at the outer limits of the world; its
brine is bitter, poisonous, yet the very stuff of which we are made and from which earthly life emerged. Our baptism
in Ocean is rejuvenating, yet if we do not leave its womb-like fluids, we will shrivel and die.
A primitive crustacean, which is poised on the boundary between Oceanic unconsciousness and Earthly
consciousness, seems to offer a step stone for our emergence from the deep. Yet we know the crab can step backward
or sideways as easily as forward, so by depending on its hard shell we risk sliding back into the Oceanic Womb.
Nor are our trials over when our footing is secure on dry land, for we are faced with a choice of paths: the right
(excessive focus on conscious thought), the left (excessive focus on the unconscious), and the middle (a balance of the
conscious and unconscious). If we choose the middle way, we are confronted by two canines, one domesticated, the
other not. Are they tame? "Man's best friend"? Will they lead us home? Or are they wild, perhaps even rabid "mad
dogs"? Appearances can be deceiving: domesticated dogs can be vicious, and wolves benign.
Beyond the animals are strange, unearthly herbs - healing or poisonous? Will they confer immortality or bring death?
The middle path leads between imposing towers from which we may be attacked, but which will protect us when we
have reached the distant, promised land, which looks fertile and inviting, though our view of it is hidden by deceiving
mists.
The entire scene is dominated by a crescent moon. It provides but a sliver of pale light to guide our way through the
darkness, and we cannot forget that the moon belongs to Hecate and her powerful witches, who may be hostile or
helpful in our quest; the dogs are also hers. Yet the dewy drops falling from the orb look soothing and encourage our
determination. With courage we can be reborn from the primeval waters and advance through the gates toward the
dawn of a new consciousness.
This is the card of that scary, dreamy, secret otherworld where lies the most powerful and dark magic and artistic
talents. Thus, it is the card for the most extreme types who seem to be straddling that line between artistic genius and
psychopath.
Here are the wild, mean, crazy drunks who produce groundbreaking works with pen or paintbrush. Here are the
musicians with wicked mood swings, dark, dark, dark depressions and charming manic modes. These men and
women have no inhibitions and don't even try to control themselves in polite society. Their crazy behavior is
sometimes inspired, sometimes horribly embarrassing, even unbelievable and often dangerous. But the art, poetry,
music they produce....it's magic.
This is also where seers, mediums and holy men/women find themselves after weeks of fasting, prayers and
meditation, when they finally have that holy vision. Here is the magical forest in fairy tales, the wasteland in myths
where heroes meet with spirits, oracles, sphinxes and their own shadow selves. There is no predicting what will
happen when we go to this land in dreams or while hallucinating on mushrooms. And there is no predicting how it
will change us. The Moon is the wild card of the Major Arcana.
When I get this card, I let the querent know they're in for an emotional and mental rollercoaster ride. They're going
to be moody, sensitive, and a little irrational. They can do two things, either wander through this crazy, lunatic
landscape howling at the moon (get drunk, wallow in depression, alienate friends and family with wild, antisocial
behavior), or get in a boat and go through it purposefully. Meaning that they should probably take up painting,
writing poetry or some other creative endeavor where they can transform all they're seeing and feeling into
something beautiful.
19 THE SUN
Prior Poculi - First of the Cup
Motto: Rosarium Liberorum Solis (Rose-garden of the Children of the Sun)
Dice: 4+6 = Celestial Eternity + III.Synthesis/Male (Water); 6+3 = Eternity + 3.Synthesis/Male
(Fire).
Astragali: 3+3+6 = Eternity + III.Synthesis/Male.
Greek Letter = Rho: Rhuter = archer; Rhapsodos = reciter of poems; Rhododaktulos = rosy-fingered
(sc. dawn).
Trigram: I:I Name: Li = the Clinging. Image: Fire, Lightning, Sun. The Second Son, associated with
giving light, attention and awareness. East in the Earlier Heaven. "The clinging is the brightness in
which all creatures perceive one another" (Shuo Kua II.5).
Verse:
The holy place where dawn is never done,
The garden wherein rebirth is begun,
Is where the children dance the Dance of Life,
With Love and Logic, reconciling strife.
Enjoy the sacred Garden of the Sun!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool wakes at dawn from his long, dark night of the soul to find that the river has deposited him in a serene
pool. There is a walled garden around this pond dominated by roses, lilies and splendid, nodding sunflowers.
Stepping ashore, he watches the sun rise overhead. The day is clear. A child's laughter attracts his attention and he
sees a little boy ride a small white pony into the garden.
"Come!" says the little boy, leaping off the horse and running up to him. "Come see!" And the child proceeds to take
the Fool's hand and enthusiastically point out all manner of things, the busy insects in the grass, the seeds and petals
on the sunflowers, the way the light sparkles on the pond. He asks questions of the Fool, simple but profound ones,
like "Why is the sky blue?" He sings songs, and plays games with the Fool.
At one point the Fool stops, blinking up at the Sun so large and golden overhead, and he finds himself smiling, wider
and brighter than he has in a very long time. He has been tested and tried, confused and scared, dismayed and
amazed. But this is the first time that he has been simply and purely happy. His mind feels illuminated, his soul light
and bright as a sunbeam, and it's all thanks to this child with his simple questions, games and songs. This boy has
helped the Fool see the world and himself anew.
"Who are you?" the Fool asks the child at last. The child smiles at this and seems to shine. And then he grows
brighter and brighter until he turns into pure sunlight.
"I'm You," the boy's voice says throughout the garden, "The new you." And as the words fill the Fool with warmth
and energy, he comes to realize that this garden, the sun above, the child, all exist within him. He has just met his
own inner light.
Basic Tarot Meaning
The Sun is ruled by...the Sun, of course and as the Moon was your inner darkness, the wild, untamed, unconscious
part of you, the Sun is your inner light, civilized and rational, yang to yin, Apollo to Diana.
The Sun promises the querent their day in the sun. Glory, triumph, simple pleasures and truths. As the moon
symbolized inspiration from dreams, this card symbolizes discoveries made wide awake. This is science and math,
beautifully constructed music, carefully reasoned philosophy. It is a card of intellect and youthful energy.
Like the Sun, the querent will likely come across to others as warm and radiant, and they can be told that this is a
good time to make decisions and take tests.
Standing for another person, this card can indicate those in the querent's life who are the most level headed and
sunny. Also the most youthful. And, yes, the child/children in this card can be taken literally if other cards in the
spread seem to suggest it. Your querent can be informed that a wanted and most welcome babe will soon be on the
way. Likely a boy, or twins.
We have arrived at the Garden of the Sun and found our way into its interior. Here in the enclosed and protected
Sanctuary of Apollo, consciousness brings illumination, which dispels the threatening shadows cast by the Moon,
which were nevertheless necessary to our progress. The rising sun represents consciousness reborn and thus the dawn
of a new world, for the sun is the source of all life and energy in the world.
The Children of the Sun represent the spontaneous creativity and innocence of the new conscious mind; they are
illuminated masters, yet natural and unsophisticated as they dance the dance of life. They are fraternal twins who
harmonize the opposites through their sacred union; they are Logos and Eros reborn, dancing in dynamic synergy,
uniting body and soul, flesh and spirit.
Though the Garden of the Sun seems to be a friendly place, it is also a trial, for the Sun may scorch as well as
comfort us, and excessive consciousness can desiccate anything into lifelessness. The Garden is a delight, but it is
ultimately a dangerous place for children, because Apollo, the lord of consciousness, likes order, and he may punish
those who naively pick his flowers or eat the fruit of his garden.
I actually have predicted children with this card once, and once only. Most of the time, however, this card, to me, is
all about the Apollonian ideal. Young, healthy, new and fresh. Things that were muddled come clear, everything falls
into place, and everything seems to go your way. The money you were waiting for arrives, errors in the math are
corrected to give you a bit more than expected. The project you've been working on comes out perfectly and you get
all the credit. Traffic lights turn green for you, liars come clean and apologize, the garden blooms, the sky is blue, the
weather is warm and sweet.
Is there another side to this? As with all the cards, there can be. Too much sun can leave you sunburned, which is to
say that the card can indicate being too rational and factual, or too optimistic. You may see everything as bright and
cheery, ignoring possible shadows. A person can end up fainting from sunstroke because they were too much in the
light and heat.
For the most part, however, this card echoes the song: "Here comes the Sun...." and absolutely everything is going to
be all right.
20 JUDGEMENT
Secundus Gladii - Second of the Sword
Motto: Resurgens in arca incubatus (Arising again, having been incubated in the arc).
Dice: 5+5 = Final Eternity + 5.Judgement/Alteration/Spiritual Ascent/I.Impulse (Water); 6+4 =
Eternity + 4.Order/Authority (Fire).
Astragali: 3+4+4 = Eternity + IV.Order/Authority.
Greek Letter = Sigma: Soter = savior; Skepsis = examination, observation, consideration; Soma =
body, corpse, life, existence; Sepedon = putrefaction; Sarkophagos = sarcophagus; Soros = urn,
coffin; Salpinx = trumpet, trumpet call.
Trigram: III Name: Ch'ien = the Creative. Image: Heaven, Sky. The Father, associated with strength,
creativity, firmness, endurance, purity and tree fruit (Shuo Kuo III.11). South in the Earlier Heaven.
In the Creative, "the dark and the light arouse each other" (Shuo Kuo II.5).
Verse:
The trumpet sounds; the Herald calls the Child
To rise and be rewarded - or reviled.
Reborn from ash that roasted in the Arc,
His spirit body bears the golden mark.
Arise, and let the poles be reconciled!
Basic Tarot Story
As the Fool leaves the garden of the Sun, he feels that he is near the end of his journey, ready to take a final step. But
something is keeping him from doing this, holding him back. He gazes up, hoping to find guidance from the Sun;
instead he sees above him a fiery angel, beautiful and terrible.
"You are right," the Angelic figure confirms, "you have only one last step on your journey, one final step to
completion. But you cannot take that step until you lay your past to rest."
The Fool is perturbed. "Lay it to rest? I thought I'd left it behind, all of it!"
"There is no way to leave the past behind," The Angel observes. "Each step wears down the shoe just a bit, and so
shapes the next step you take, and the next and the next. Your past is always under your feet. You cannot hide from
it, run from it, or rid yourself of it. But you can call it up, and come to terms with it. Are you willing to do that?"
The Angel hands the Fool a small trumpet. The Fool is hesitant, but he knows that the Angel is right. There are
certain memories he has a hard time looking back on as they make him feel guilty, ashamed, angry. He knows that
he's never come to terms with what happened and he must if he wants to make that final transition.
He blows the trumpet and it cracks open the Earth. From under the Fool's feet, the spirits of his past selves rise up,
including those less than admirable past selves that he's tried to forget.
For the first time, he faces them. They are, he sees, nothing to fear. They were him once-upon-a-time, but not now.
Even as he realizes this, he finds himself forgiving those past selves for the wrongs they did that left him feeling bad.
He senses, in turn, that they forgive him for ignoring the lessons they had to teach him. As he reaches an
understanding with them, they start to rise up and float away, vanishing into the sky. Though they remain as
experiences and memories, they no longer have any power over him. He is free of ill-feelings, reborn, and living in
the present.
Basic Tarot Meaning
With Fire as its ruling element, Judgement is about rebirth and resurrection. The idea of Judgement Day is that the
dead rise, their sins are forgiven, and they move onto heaven. The Judgement card is similar in that it asks us to
resurrect the past, forgive it, and let it go. There are wounds from the past that we never let heal, sins we've
committed that we refuse to forgive, bad habits we haven't the courage to lose. Judgement advises us to finally face
these, recognize that the past is past, and put them to rest, absolutely and irrevocably.
The reader can tell the querent that they need to forgive or be forgiven, do something they've been putting off, or
have the courage to finally end something that isn't good for them. It is time to move on.
This is also a card of healing, quite literally from an accident or illness. It can indicate a time in the hospital, or a
time of significant change.
Hermes the "Angel" (Messenger) summons us to the final stage of transformation. Like the child reborn from the
Hermetic Egg, newly emerged from the watery womb, we are called to rise and submit our nearly integrated psyche
to "judgement" (examination) in 20.Justice. The banner on the trumpet symbolizes our goal, a mystic union with the
universe, which will effect a synthesis of the temporal, mundane world and the eternal, spiritual world. The parents,
the Alchemist and his Soror Mystica (representing male and female components of the psyche), are justly proud of
their creation, and eagerly anticipate the successful completion of the Great Work.
Judgement can be a hard card to read; it usually signals a change, one that involves leaving something old completely
behind and stepping into something completely new. Like closing the door on an old job, and opening the door to a
new and very different career. But it's also about making a final decision, to take that plunge into the new career, to
forgive your family, to leave an abusive spouse, to make a new life. To heal and renew.
It's a very hard card to read, in part because it deals with very hard and final decisions. And it means facing
something that most querents don't want to face. This is not about Death, something ending whether you want it to
or not, this is about deciding to make a change, to stop doing something that isn't working and do something that will
work. Which means that it's really a card about courage, and about recognizing that you're holding onto something
that needs to be let go.
"You can't hide any longer," this card says, "all the coffins have opened, and all that you thought was buried is out in
the open. Face what you have to face and lay it to rest so that you can move on. Make that decision. Change."
21 THE COSMOS
Ultimorum Princeps - Chief of Ultimates
Motto: Unus mundus sum (I am the One World).
Dice: 6+6 = Eternity + 6.New Order, Harmony, Wholeness, Reconciliation of Opposites, Androgyny
(Water & Fire).
Astragali: none.
Greek Letter = Upsilon: Hugies = healthy, sound, wholesome, sound in mind, true, genuine,
authentic; Hustatos = last, utmost, extreme; Hupsos = height, top, sublimation.
Verse:
The Dancer looks both ways, and holds the keys
that show the rising, falling vortices.
Her dance expands within the world, and takes
the world within; in her the world awakes.
Unreal divisions yield to unities!
Basic Tarot Story
The Fool turns to take that final step along his final path, and finds, to his bemusement, that he is right back where
he started, at the edge of that very same cliff he almost stepped over when he was young and too foolish to look
where he was going. But now he sees his position very differently. He thought he could separate body and mind,
learn all about one, then leave it to learn about the other. But in the end, it is all about the self: mind and body, past
and future, the individual, and the world. All one, including the Fool and the Mystic who are both doorways to the
secrets of the universe.
With a knowing smile, the Fool takes that final step right off the cliff...and soars. Higher and higher, until the whole
of the world is his to see. And there he dances, surrounded by a yoni of stars, at one with the universe. Ending, in a
sense, where he began, beginning again at the end. The world turns, and the Fool's journey is complete.
Basic Tarot Meaning

The Cosmos (or World) card pictures a dancer in a vesica piscis (sometimes made of laurel leaves). The vesica piscis
symbolizes the great Mother, the cervix through which everything is born, and also the doorway to the next life after
death. It is indicative of a complete circle. The Dancer has one leg crossed over the other, just like the Hanged man.
She is, in a sense, his opposite, the Hanged Man right-side-up. As the Hanged Man saw infinitely inward, the Dancer
sees infinitely outward.
The Dancer is also the opposite of the Wheel. The Wheel goes up and down like a Ferris Wheel, which means those
on it feel like they get moved to higher or lower positions, are lucky or unlucky. The Cosmos, by compare, goes round
and round like a carousel. This means that whatever corner of the universe a person gets sent to, it seems equally
wonderful and interesting, not like a promotion or demotion. With the Cosmos there are no Zeniths or Nadirs; each
corner is different, but all are similarly important.
Which brings us to the Lion, Bull, Cherub and Eagle standing for Leo, Taurus, Aquarius and Scorpio, the fixed signs
of the Zodiac (also sometimes found on The Wheel of Fortune card). These are symbolic of the four elements (four
suits of the tarot), four compass points, four seasons, and the four corners of the universe. All within the Dancer's
sight and power.
Thus, the Cosmos card is about, first, completion and competency. The querent may have come to the end of a
long-term project or graduated from a field of study. There is the feeling that they have hit all the points of the circle.
There will be well-earned praise, celebration and success.
Saturn, the card's ruling planet, reinforces this. Saturn is the "scholar" card, and indicates that the querent is now an
expert in their subject. Thus, this is not, like Death, the end of something, but rather a change in frequency. From
student to teacher, from apprentice to master. The querent has finished their first go-around and goes right into
another spin as a professional.
And, finally, on a more mundane level, the Cosmos card indicates travel, not short business trips, but long, fantastic
trips. Maybe a lecture tour, book signing, or just a trip around the world. This can be a wonderful card of wholeness,
satisfaction and independence.
In this trump the Saturnalia comes to an end (see 0.Fool). The Fool, chosen by chance (or destiny) to be the Carnival
King, Saturnaliacus Princeps, the Lord of Misrule, has had many adventures; he has been exalted and tried. At the
head of the Triumphal Procession he has led a succession of triumphs of progressively higher order, which now
reach their culmination. Thrice has he passed the seven gates. On each of the seven days of the Carnival one of the
seven Feathers of Folly was pulled from his head, so that now none are left.
The Fool dances his last dance as king, for soon he will be stripped of his special status, but he rejoins the common
mass of humanity in a transfigured state, having perhaps transformed the masses by his example. The Fool has
become the Dancer, who dances the eternal dance of liberated life, blending rhythm and spontaneity. She is the
integrated soul, ascending to the eternal realms and descending again into the world of the four elements. Uniting all
opposites into a dynamic synergy, she holds the keys of Heaven and the Abyss, and points the way into the new
Aquarian Aeon, the return of the Golden Age of Saturn.
There are three possible things I usually see in this card when it comes up, sometimes combined, sometimes not:
(1) Everything finally coming together, successfully and at last. The querent will graduate, marry after a long
engagement, finish that huge project, or get their ph.d. This is a card about completing things, and getting well
earned cheers and pats on the back when you do.
(2) The querent is or will become a teacher, a Sensei, a scholar or master of their profession. Meaning they've shifted
from being seen as a common worker to being seen as an expert. They may stop working for others and start up their
own business. Or it may be that someone will retire and they'll take over.
(3) They are either traveling now or will be traveling. Luckily for them, the Cosmos card indicates that they'll feel
comfortable and welcome no matter where they go, provided for by those who sent or invited them on this trip. The
Cosmos card indicates a person who owns little. The whole world is their home and gives them what they need.
MINOR ARCANA
SUITS
The Minors are separated into four suits.
Four Powers are opposed, for everything
is Moist or Dry, but also Cold or Warm.
All matter, mind they govern and transform.
Attend these Truths, from which all insights spring.
These suits represent certain things:
Wands
Also known as staffs, spears, rods.
The fervent Wands convey the force of Fire,
their Heat expanding upward, subtle, pure.
With Dryness they impose what they prefer,
for ideal forms ignite the will, inspire.
Element: FIRE (though some decks have it as Air). If FIRE then: Represents passion. As such, in a reading it usually
stands for ambition, career, creative endeavors, religion and/or philosophy. Anything a person might put their energy
and soul into. This is something you have to do, whether you are recompensed for it or not. It is something that
burns inside of you and you need to act on it.
This is the suit of adventurers and inventors, inspirational speakers, and those with religious or patriotic zeal. It is the
suit of excitement and impatience, hot pursuits, grand ideals and gestures, and the desire to make one's mark on the
world.
Wands also indicate hot tempers, passionate desires, enthusiasm, charisma, competitiveness, athletics, and restlessness
that usually translates to travel and movement.
Cups
Also known as chalices, bowls, cauldrons.
The ample Cups contain the Water's flow,
for Cold unites disparate kinds as one.
With Wetness they respond and overrun
and, yielding, fill the emptiness below.
Element: WATER
Represents the emotions. Special Note: When readers see that Cups represent "emotions" they erroneously think
that the other suits are unemotional. "Emotions" is an imprecise designation for cups because all suits relate to
emotions. Wands are passionate emotions, while Swords often indicate anxieties and Pentacles are more practical
feelings. What would be more precise is to say that Cups are about romantic or poetic emotions, the ones we identify
as relating to "the heart." Sorrow, bliss, nostalgia, melancholy.
These are feelings that you surrender to, that you flow or sink into. Best known for representing our romantic love
life, cup cards are often about our feelings toward one another. The warm connections we have with family or
friends, our recognition of someone who is sympathetic to us, or regret when we hurt or wrong others, or lose them.
Loneliness.
Cups can also stands for emotional extremes such as elation or depression, and the negatives that come with such
emotions, like over-indulgence in food, drink, drugs. Likewise the positives we can create from such emotions like
poetry, art, music or dance. As compared to the passionate spiritualism of Wands, which tends to want to spread its
zeal, Cups relates to more solitary or humble spiritualism. The search for beauty and divine love.
For this reason, Cups are very much linked to psychic powers, visions, illusions. As the sensitive emotions of cups
allow us contact with each other, they also open us up to the esoteric.
Swords
Also known as knives, daggers, blades.
The sharp-edged Swords divide the misty Air,
whose Moisture lets them yield to outer form,
but they divide and sever, for they're Warm.
With nimble strokes their edges split the hair.
Element: AIR. Some decks have it as Fire. If AIR then:
Swords represent the mind and the voice. Here is the suit of sharp ideas and sharp tongues, of thinking things
through or thinking/saying too much. Swords are cleverness and a love of facts, they are "swordplay" in the sense of
solving problems, performing calculations, discussing and debating.
The suit is also, however, about braggarts and gossips, liars and slanderers. Which, not surprisingly, also makes
Swords the suit of anxieties, worries, problems and troubles. A sword is a weapon with a cutting edge and sharp
point. Every time we use our mind and express our thoughts we run the risk of getting into a swordfight. And in this
day of global communications, there are a great many ways to get into such fights.
In the tarot, the Sword is that mightier "pen" standing for writing, research, television, radio and the internet. It is all
forms of information and so the card of science, mathematics and medicine as well as debate, analysis and
journalism.
Thoughts breeze into your mind. They are made into words and those words are given breath or are written up.
Messages fly through the air, and bring back responses. Sometimes this may result in a swordfight, other times in
swords crossing together in unity, an agreement reached.
Pentacles
Also known as disks or coins.
The Pentacles exert the force of Earth,
whose Dryness sets the shape, a rigid mold,
a body joined together by the Cold.
The solid ground of life confirms its worth.
Element: EARTH
This is the suit of health, money, luck and work, the suit of the physical. It relates to our body, our home, our
valuables. All that we consider solid, real and of this world. For this reason, Pentacles represent the pragmatic,
common sense side of life like the job/work we do to put food on the table and the money we save up to pay the
bills. Not surprisingly, however, Pentacles can also indicate indulging in luxuries, those things that money can buy.
Pentacles is the slow-growth, long-term suit, the suit about creating something real rather than seeking excitement
like Wands, or theorizing like Swords or dreaming of romance like Cups. Hence, Pentacles stands for the bankers
and business owners, the craftsmen, farmers, shopkeepers and laborers. Those who see their worth in something they
have built, be it a corporation or a bakery.
This is also a suit about social interaction and responsibilities. Which is why, in regards to feelings, it is a suit about
greed vs. generosity, about doing what is enriches ourselves vs. what enriches others. Also what one has or doesn't
have and how that affects how others view us. Thus it is as much a suit about how we respond to being lucky or
wealthy as it is about luck and wealth.
Versus Pythagorici de Numeris

(Pythagorean Verses on the Numbers)
1998, 2000, John Ops
These Words Arcane the Lesser Secrets hold;

with Signs and Symbols let the Truth be told!
I. The source is One, whence things are brought to be,
for chaos is the Primal Unity.
II. In Two divide the source and end apart
to yield the Goal, at which is aimed the start.
III. The Three goes forth, the difference to transcend;
The First Perfection: middle, start and end.
IIII. By Four-square poise an Order is defined,
in double pairs the disjoint poles to bind.
V. The Five erupts beyond the ordered bounds;
the Crisis shows another world surrounds.
VI. By Six degrees the high and low are wed,

and Second the Perfection that is bred.
VII. By Seven the array is forced to flee,
and yet it holds a Hidden Unity.
VIII. By Eight degrees the wheel of nature rolls;
Reciprocation balances the poles.
IX. The Nine includes the center with the wheel:
the Third Perfection, dawn of the ideal.
X. In Ten the numbers merge in harmony,
and join the source in Final Unity.
ONES/ACES
Active Monad
The first principle is the Monad or Unit. It is the self-generating principle, the self-generated generator of everything
else.
Passive Monad
The Monad contains everything potentially, Protean. It is prima materia (first matter), an undifferentiated unity, an
unstructured wholeness, the seed of all. The Monad corresponds to the first stage of many cosmologies, the Primeval
Waters, the Confused Mass (Massa confusa), Chaos, Tiamat, etc. The Sun. Both odd and even, male and female,
matter and form.
Aces are the root force, the spark or seed of the suit. Relate them to the Magician, who presents the tools to the Fool.
They have no purpose yet, but are filled with raw potential. They are the active energy of the suit ready to be used.
They can also indicate compass direction or season, but which is which is often debated. Here are the most typical
directions and seasons. If, however, they don't feel right to you, the reader, change them to what works.
These are the Aces, the raw or initial passion, feelings, thoughts and needs that can be directed into something more.
They represent hope, a possibility, an action to take, a future that you can create.
Choose wisely what you take up from the Magician's table for each has its pitfalls as well as pinnacles.
Ace of Wands: Inspiration

South/Summer
The urge to create, the upwelling of creative energy, sudden illumination, enthusiasm, inspiration, spiritual
aspiration, creativity, spiritual hunger. The Power of the Spirit.
A new spark of energy for a new passion. This usually indicates that the querent has just discovered or wants to
discover a new religion, philosophy, cause or career choice, possibly even a new sexual partner. They feel their energy
go up, they feel the heat, and they want more of it. They take up the wand and start walking.
Ace of Cups: Longing

West/Fall
The beginning of a relationship, the urge for relationship, an upwelling of feeling, an indefinite feeling, emotional
capacity, loneliness, emotional dissatisfaction, ennui. The Power of the Heart.
Emotions rising up for new love. This usually indicates that the querent is feeling a new welling of emotion or
beginning to have some vivid dreams. They're not writing the poetry yet, but they feel the desire to, or they may have
caught sight of a figure across a room and felt a tug at their heart, or even passed by some holy place and felt the
spirit yearning. They've lifted the cup and they want to drink from it.
Ace of Swords: Idea

East/Spring
The seed or hint of a new idea, intellectual aspiration, intellectual excitement, intellect, critical thinking, intellectual
dissatisfaction. The Power of the Mind.
The mind awakening for new challenges. This usually indicates that the person's mind is feeling sharper, clearer.
They want to talk, want to discuss or write. The breeze stirs through the trees and the fledgling thinks of trying out
its newly feathered wings. The sword is lifted, and the querent wants to test its edge.
Ace of Pentacles: Ambition

North/Winter
The beginning of a material project (handicraft, business), the urge to material creation, material resources, hunger,
dissatisfaction with material circumstances. The Power of the Body.
New luck, health or work for new prosperity. There is no desire to burn, or flow or fly; here is a physical need to be
grounded, to make, build and touch. Like a seed in the ground, there is a desire to sprout roots and just become. The
pentacle is taken in hand, and, for now, the querent wants only to have it solidly in his pocket.
TWOS/DEUCES
Active Dyad
The Active Dyad is the the principle of change, separation and differentiation. The Active Dyad is a discriminating
principle, action that is directed toward a particular end, as opposed to the Active Monad, which is pure, undirected
energy. It is associated with change, movement, difference, opinion, disagreement, judgement, relationship. As the
Active Monad is called Zeus, so the Active Dyad is called Rhea (flux and extension).
Passive Dyad
The Active Dyad manifests by operating on the Passive Monad (as prima materia). As the principle of separation
(Separatio) it splits the Monad, so that Chaos (Gap) opens in it. In this way the Active Dyad creates the Passive Dyad,
an actual separation into opposites (Separatio oppositorum). It creates a balanced polarity between, for example, male/
female, form/matter, stability/change. The Passive Dyad corresponds to the second cosmological stage, in which
some active agent (e.g. Marduk, Shu, "Destructive Strife" - oloios neikos, etc.) opens a Gap between Earth (Gaia, Keb)
and Sky (Ouranos, Nut); it's the splitting of the Cosmic Egg. The Dyad is the first Even Number, comprising two
Monads. (Even Numbers are considered female, unlimited, moving, changing, turning.) The Dyad represents Matter
and Body (alchemical Salt), in contrast to the Form and Spirit (alchemical Sulphur) of the Monad. The Dyad is also
called Erato, Anguish, Dike (Justice), Dichotomy, Balance and Growth.
The twos are related to the High Priestess. As such they indicate duality, a pause between two choices or an attempt
do two thing at once. Most importantly, they indicate instinctual knowledge. Aces are undirected energy; the twos are
that point where you find out more about the energy so that you can know which direction to go with it.
Two of Wands: Beginning of Transformation

The fire of creative energy or spiritual yearning represented by the Ace of Wands, is given direction toward a
specific goal by the Deuce of Wands. Thus, a goal is chosen which, it is anticipated, will quench the hunger,
yearning, dissatisfaction, or urge to change represented by the Ace. Once the goal is determined, change can begin.
Determination, resolve, discipline. The beginning of the Transformation.
Picture usually features a man with one wand in hand, the other set aside. Thus, the card is usually about making a
choice. Wands are passion, and passion is not something that works when split. It requires a single focus. This card
indicates a choice about where to put your energy and passion. Some readers find this card confusing as compared to
the Lovers card, which is also about choice.
The Lovers is usually about an unexpected choice coming into your life. You intended to go one way, but something
appeared, you feel connected to it, and now have a choice to make. Often the Lovers carries a feeling that the wrong
choice could lead to real regret.
By comparison, the two wands present you with equal directions to go. A fork in the road and either way seems
good. Or two ways of doing the same thing. Both look good, but you can only put your energy into doing one. So
you make a choice. You'll likely have an instinctive feeling that one is slightly more to your liking then the other. This
card signals that moment where you pause, give both walking sticks a feel in the hand and decide on one over the
other. You likely will not regret that choice, only that you didn't have energy enough to do both.
Two of Cups: Beginning of the Relationship

The Deuce means relationship, and so it may represent the focusing of feelings on a specific object, the outward
direction of the Ego, the drawing together of subject and object; desire, love, friendship, sympathy etc. toward a
specific object. The relationship pulls the poles together rather than driving them apart (cf. the Deuce of Swords);
thus the Deuce of Cups tends to be cooperative and conjunctive rather than competitive and disjunctive, though the
Dyad still causes the emphasis to be on the differences, thus affinity in spite (or because) of differences, Unity in
Difference. The excitement of a new love, friendship, etc. The start of the Relationship.
The Deuce of Cups may also represent a relationship between unlikes in the emotional realm. The salient example
is the relation of Man and Woman, whether in love or in characteristic differences of emotional outlook. The Deuce
can also manifest as other emotional opposites, such as introvert/extrovert, parent/child, "hard-headed" vs. "softhearted," aggressive/passive, etc.
This card of two people looking into each other's eyes is one of the easiest to read - it is recognition of love, of a
friend or a sympathetic soul. It might also be that kind of recognition of being drawn to a creative endeavor or
spiritual path. Thus, the swelling of emotion within you is toward this person or thing. This happens all the time to
us. We're at a party, feeling like we can't talk to anyone, sit down at the bar, meet the eyes of the person next to us
and feel that they feel the same way. That we're "simpatico." Maybe we laugh or smile or exchange a few words.
It is a moment of shared feeling, and it could lead to more if we want to invest more emotion into the relationship, if
we feel that this might be for us. Or, as the night ends, we might just nod to the other person and go our separate
way. A choice must be made of whether we will direct our new emotions toward them or not.
Two of Swords: Beginning of Analysis

The Deuce of Swords represents the application of the rational faculty to a specific object or situation, and the
resulting divisions, discriminations and judgements. The resulting distinctions may be "value neutral"; that is, at this
stage they may appear precariously balanced in their desirability, because the opposites are considered by "cold
logic," by the head not the heart; indecision may be a consequence. Unresolved contradiction or paradox, quandry.
The result can also be confrontational, "logic chopping," razor-sharp distinctions: good/evil, ours/theirs, "with
us"/"agin' us," friend/enemy, virtue/vice, true/false, honest/dishonest, etc. The resulting relationships tend to be
competitive and disjunctive rather than cooperative and conjunctive (cf. Deuce of Cups). At this stage, simple
distinctions are being made, and there is the heady feeling that logic will win the day. The beginning of Analysis.
This is a striking image of a blindfolded lady with two swords. Crossed swords suggest a clash of ideas or words. The
blindfolded lady, indicating impartiality, crosses her arms and so holds the swords apart. This is the knowledge of
how to keep these two sides from fighting. It is very similar to a Mother who tells her bickering children: "I don't care
who started it, go to your rooms!" Thus keeping the children apart and the house at peace.
Each child wants mom to take his/her side, but she'd decided to stay neutral and keep them likewise, which means
that her solution is temporary. The fight between them hasn't been resolved, it's just been put on hold. Sooner or
later, this truce will end.
This can indicate the querent feeling like he/she is in the middle of something as a peacekeeper, or in a situation
where tensions are running high and the lull in fighting isn't going to last. It's possible that the querent is trying to
deny or ignore the fact that they didn't solve the problem and a reader would do well to remind them that they can't
put off making a real decision for long.
When we are faced with two opposing ideas or decisions with equally valid arguments, we do have a tendency to say,
"I can't make up my mind right now, let me be!" But sooner or later, our minds have to go back online and we will
have to decide what to do.
Two of Pentacles: Beginning of the Project

The Deuce of Pentacles represents the direction of material resources (money, supplies, strength, physical skill,
craftsmanship) toward a specific goal, balanced gain and loss, investment and return. It is thus the first stage of the
project; the marshalling of resources (of all sorts) toward the desired end. The availability of and need for resources
must be balanced in order to progress, but overall this card represents the happy enthusiasm when the goal is clear
and progress has begun. The start of the Project.
Standing before the waves of an ocean, a fellow deftly juggles two pentacles. The meaning is pretty straightforward.
This is the juggling finances, jobs, responsibilities card. We pay one bill, and don't pay the other (which is up in the
air). When it comes down and we can't put it of any longer, we pay that and let the other one be up in the air.
The querent may be doing this because they want to or may need to do this. They may feel they've worked so hard
on both that they haven't the heart to put either one aside. And so they switch off put "work" or money into one
thing while neglecting the other, keeping both alive, but allowing neither to thrive.
Yet this juggling may be a good idea. Having two jobs or projects also allows there to be a fail-safe, something to fall
back on if the other goes wrong.
As with the swords, there's no keeping this up forever, but it may suffice while you're waiting for your luck to change
or circumstances to help make the decision for you.
THREES/TREYS
Genesis
The Triad comprises the Monad and the Dyad. The Active Triad uses the Passive Monad to impose limit and form
on the Passive Dyad. Thus the Active Triad is the principle that bridges the separation of the Dyad, and so restores
the unity of the Monad, but without abandoning the differences created by the Active Dyad. It creates a Harmonia - a
Joining, as of Boards - which is the Passive Triad.
Active Triad
The Active Dyad created a Goal or End by distinguishing it from the Impulse or Beginning, and the Active Triad is
the Agent that creates a Way from Beginning to End, from the Impulse to the Goal, and thus is the Initial
Completion of the process or action that reaches the End or Goal. In this way the Active Triad creates the Passive
Triad, which is the Initial Completion and First Perfection of the Passive Dyad.
The Active Triad is also the Principle of Mediation, which creates a Mean between the Extremes of the Passive
Dyad, thus producing the Passive Triad, which is a Harmonia (Joining), a structured unity, the Rebis (Two-thing), a
synthesis of the opposites (Coniunctio oppositorum) of the Dyad. This is the Alchemical Wedding, in which the
alchemical Mercury (Triad) unites the alchemical Sulphur (Monad) with the alchemical Salt (Dyad); the result is the
Living Gold or Philosophers' Stone.
The Triad corresponds to the Second Cosmological Stage in which some Active Agent (e.g. Eros) causes Earth and
Sky to mate; thus was Enlil born of An and Ki; He is the Air, which fills the Gap between Heaven (An) and Earth
(Ki); He establishes the Bond of Heaven and Earth (Dur-An-Ki).
In summary, the Active Triad is the principle of initial completion, joining, mediation, synthesis, compromise,
moderation and unification.
Passive Triad
According to the Pythagoreans, the Triad was the first Actual Number, that is the first actualization of the
potentialities of the Monad and Dyad (which, properly speaking, were not Numbers). Thus the Passive Triad is the
first completion of the process of Number Generation, the Firstborn of Zeus (Monad) and Rhea (Dyad). The
Passive Triad represents Formed Matter and the Embodied Spirit (alchemical Mercury), in relation to the Monad
(Form, Spirit, Sulphur) and the Dyad (Matter, Body, Salt). The Triad is the progeny that results when the opposites of
the Dyad are united by the Monad. The Passive Triad is the First Completion, with Beginning, Middle and End, the
First Perfection. The Passive Triad is the first Meeting of Impulse and Goal, the first milestone, the first climax; a
taste of victory, the first kiss, the first coniunctio oppositorum (conjunction of opposites). The Pythagoreans called It
Prudence, Wisdom, Harmonia, Peace, Marriage and the Mean. They also called the Triad Hecate, for She is known
as Trivia, the Goddess of the Three Ways (tri-via); so also is Artemis called.
We had one, indivisible thing, a stirring. We thought that one was good; then we noticed it's other side, the Hyde to
Dr. Jekyll, the yin to the yang. We needed to see both sides in order to understand it and know how to develop it.
So we understand this passion, emotion, idea or work that we've taken up. We have decided to put our energy,
feelings, brainpower or work into it. Our next move, of course, is for us to do just that and develop it, create a third
corner. One that will, balance out the other two, form a triangle and allow for evolution and growth.
Ruling over the threes is the Empress whose card is about newborn things, which must be nursed and babied. As the
twos were the fact-finding period, the period or hammering out the details, putting off the decision or making the
decision, threes are about using that knowledge to take the first step or get the first results. It is about improvising our
way through those early times of fragile development.
Three of Wands: Accomplishment

In the Trey of Wands the striving towards a goal represented by the Deuce of Wands has reached its first fruition.
There is more to be done, but a good start has been made, and the satisfactions of accomplishment can be felt,
which brings justifiable pride, but also perhaps hubris. The (over-)confidence of the novice, "beginner's luck." A Goal
has been reached.
A man with two wands, holding a third, looks out to sea, waiting. Sometimes there are boats on the horizon. This is
the card of "waiting for the ships to come in." The person has invested their passion in something - a new career, a
big move to a new city (remember wands signify travel as well), maybe they've even thrown their hat into a political
ring - and now the energy they sent out is coming back to them. It is a card of progress, of the first hint that the
dream can be made real.
This card also indicates that, like a woman holding her new born babe in her arms for the first time, or a politician
hearing that the first round of votes are for him/her, the querent might rightly be feeling a little proud, even
powerful. They might be warned, however, to not get too excited. Though there is a sense that positive results are
coming in, they should wait till the ships have all appeared and docked before celebrating or boasting.
Three of Cups: Fulfillment

With the Trey of Cups the relationship has been established and acknowledged on all sides, and it has reached its
first climax. Shared feelings (= com-passion): happiness, but also sorrow; likes and dislikes. The joy of a new friend,
lover, etc., with no clouds on the horizon. Celebration, carefree happiness, pleasure, emotional fulfillment. "The first
kiss," "young love," "newlyweds." A Connection has been made.
Three maidens with three overflowing cups celebrate. The creation here, springing from the investment of emotion,
is "family" meaning either family members that you're reunited with, or a young friendship with people who are like
family.
In the Rider-Waite deck autumnal fruit surrounds our three ladies, suggesting that they are celebrating the
abundance of the harvest to sustain them through lean times. Or, perhaps, this relates to the great, Elysian mysteries,
which celebrated the return of Persephone from the underworld and, with her, the return of abundant grain and
fruit. Either way, they interlock arms as they lift their cups, toasting each other, united in joy and love.
This card can signify parties, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, birthdays or a holiday dinner. What it signals
most strongly, however, is being with those who are emotionally in tune with you and you with them. If this card
comes up regarding a question about a new relationship, it usually means that you're either discussing it with friends/
family, or introducing this new person to friends/family. You're taking the next step in strengthening your emotional
bond with the person. That is to say, you're feeling serious enough about them to let them meet those who are
important to you-and let those who are important to you meet them.
Three of Swords: Separation

The Trey of Swords is a difficult card. Because the Swords are fundamentally divisive, the Trey represents an initial
completion, climax or culmination of the separating, discriminating and dividing processes that the suit represents,
which may manifest, for example, as intellectual, emotional or physical separation. Thus the "initial completion"
represented by the Trey may manifest in Swords as interruption, disruption, separation, removal, opposition or strife.
In all cases the split has reached a climax. Lines have been drawn.
In intellectual realms the Trey of Swords can simply represent the initial completion of some analysis, that is, of
some discriminating or judgmental process. This accomplishment is often followed by overconfidence in one's
conclusions and the feeling that one has all the answers, and that they're unassailable because they've been "proven
by logic." As a consequence, opinions harden and arguments can become vicious as intellectual antagonists begin to
doubt their opponents' honesty or motives. In general, winning the battle may be mistaken for winning the war.
Ah, the dreaded Three of Swords. Three swords pierce a heart. Against the background of a storm, it bleeds. This
card often relates to love-triangles, but remember this is an air sign, so what wounds the querent is not an action, but
something said to them, or read by them. There is a strong possibility that a secret has finally come out.
A reader may wonder how this differs from The Tower, which is about a similar reveal. The Tower reveals that
something you were passionate about is false, and that is most important. With the Tower, the querent had no idea,
none at all, that what they thought was true was not true. They believed it heart and soul. With the Three of Swords,
the querent usually senses that something is up even if they don't know what. A friend has been avoiding you,
perhaps, or making strange excuses. Something is up, but no one will say what. It feels like everyone is keeping
something secret from you. And you may even have your suspicions of what.
The Three of Swords indicates that it's going to finally come out. It will be hurtful, the words sharp, piercing. "I
don't like you," or, "I want to break up," or "I'm in love with your best friend" (ouch!). But it will not be a bolt out of
the blue. It may even be a relief to finally know. No more waiting, obsessing, wondering, worrying about what could
be wrong. This cutting truth, however bitter and painful, allows all that tension and uncertainty to finally drain out.
The querent knows how things stand, the truth about how they're seen by others. This development allows them to
move on.
Three of Pentacles: Success

The Trey of Pentacles represents the first major success in a material enterprise. The project has successfully passed
its first milestone; the craftsperson or artist has become satisfactorily skilled; the business has become profitable; the
athlete has won a contest. Victory has been tasted.
A craftsman shows off his work of three pentacles to his patrons. This is sometimes known as the "craftsman's card,"
and it relates to doing a job so well or uniquely that it gains patronage. Some readers find this card confusing as it
shows a "master" craftsman at Three, but the card of apprenticeship is at Eight. Shouldn't "apprenticeship" come
first?
Actually, the Three of Pentacles isn't really about being a master of your craft, and the Eight of Pentacles, when it's
about apprenticeship, is usually about learning something new and different. So cards are not as out of order as they
seem.
We will get to the Eight later, but for right now it's important to understand that the focus of the Three of Pentacles
isn't on the craftsman. It's on the investors. We might well be reminded of two young men who created one of the
first desktop computers in their garage. They weren't master computer-makers at the time, but their product caught
the attention of investors and they were able to put their work and time into making more.
This is what the card is all about. The querent is or will be given the money or opportunity to nurture and develop
something. A friend might give them funding, or their boss might give them more time to work on a project. Health
wise, this card can also indicate positive results from a new exercise program or therapy. That initial bout of work has
paid off.
FOURS/CATERS
Genesis
The Triad has created a Path between the Poles of the Dyad, thus forging a higher Unity, but the Unification is onedimensional and unstable. The Active Dyad divides the Unification, creating another Path between the Poles, and
the resulting Passive Tetrad is a Double Dyad. In addition, the Active Monad acts to unify the two Poles in the Triad,
thus creating a Return (re-turn = turn back) from the End to the Beginning, and the resulting Passive Tetrad
comprises a Monad and a Triad. In both cases the resultant multiple linking of the Poles creates Stability and
Completeness.
Active Tetrad
The Active Tetrad is the Process that brings the Passive Tetrad into Being. It completes the connection forged by the
Active Triad, either by coming full circle and completing the Cycle, or by reciprocating the connection of the Triad
and forming a return connection. The Active Tetrad brings the End back to the Beginning, and returns from the
place where the Goal was reached to that where the Impulse arose. The Active Tetrad brings Well-rounded
Completion and Stability. It is also Solidification, Crystallization, Ossification, Petrification, Materialization.
The Active Tetrad represents the Fourth Cosmological Stage, in which the Intercourse of the Gods brings about the
Four Quarters of the Heavens, of the Earth and of the Abyss. Thus does Enlil mate with His Mother Ki, to bring
about the Organized Universe (so in the Sumerian "Epic of Gilgamesh").
Alternately, in the Babylonian "Enuma elish," Anu gives the Fourfold Winds of Enlil to Marduk, who has Four Eyes
and Four Ears; He completes the creation, begun by His Father Ea, by "Squaring the Quarters" - fixing the Four
Quarters of the Three Worlds: the Heavens, the Earth, the Abyss; He gives the Gods Their Stations, organizes the
Circle of the Zodiac, and defines the Cycle of the Year.
So does Trivia (Hecate) negotiate the return of Persephone to Her Mother (the return, reciprocation and
reconciliation of the Demeter-Persephone-Hades Triad), and thus stabilize the Fourfold Cycle of the Year.
Passive Tetrad
As the Complete Cycle, the Passive Tetrad is Stability and Perfect Completion. Having returned from Its journey, the
Passive Tetrad is Rest, Weariness, Tranquility, and Stasis. It is the Treasure brought back, the Reward, Satisfaction,
Complaisance and Stasis. It is Return and Relaxation from Extension (Triad).
The Tetrad is Fixed, Firm, Four-Square, a Solid Structure, the Unshakable Four Quarters, the Four Elements, the
Four Powers or Qualities; it is the Complete and Stable Totality in a given Plane. The Quartered Square represents
Earth, Natural Motion and Linear Change (Growth, Progress, Evolution, etc.), and the Quartered Circle represents
the Heavens, Celestial Motion and Cyclic Change. Combined they are the Fourfold Root of all Being and Becoming.
For the Pythagoreans, the Tetrad was the first Actual Even Number, since the Dyad is only Potentially Even, and so
not Even in the full sense. The Monad and Dyad are principles of Potentiality beyond the Odd/Even distinction.
Thus, the Potential of the Monad and the Dyad are brought to Actuality in the Triad and Tetrad.
The Pythagoreans called the Tetrad Heracles, Justice, and Perfect Harmony (the Four Concords). They also called
the Tetrad Hermes, for He was born on the Fourth Day of the Fourth Month, and He is the God of the Fourcornered Herm (Marker Stone), which gives stability to Boundaries, which defines the Four Corners of the Land,
and which marks the Cross-Roads (Quadrivium). As Hecate is the Magician of the Three Ways (tri-via), so Hermes is
the Magician of the Four Ways (quadri-via).
Fours are ruled by the Emperor and, like both the Emperor and his throne, they signify stability. The first stage is
complete: the invested passion, emotion, brainpower and work gotten past being young and fragile and is now rooted
and strong. Established. This can be positive, a solid foundation on which to build more, or negative, something that
has come to a halt and doesn't know how to evolve any further.
Four of Wands: Earned Rewards

In the Cater of Wands, the initial success of the Trey of Wands has been consolidated (made solid). Having achieved
the goal and tied up loose ends, we are confident that it is solid achievement rather than beginner's luck, so we may
happily harvest the fruits of our labor, celebrate our accomplishments with confidence, and take a respite from
striving. The roaring fire has settled into warm, comfortable glowing embers. Solid Accomplishment.
The danger here (as in all the Caters) is complaisance: we are too comfortable, and so we're reluctant to rock the
boat and risk losing what we've achieved by undertaking new adventures.
This card, with its four wands holding up garlands, implies that the foundation is finished and ready to be developed.
It signifies the successful completion of a first stage or a first draft, first full rehearsal, first election to a small but
significant post. It also predicts that the querent will (or has) enjoyed this moment of completion, celebrated it.
Often this card is read as indicating marriage, this because marriage is seen as the "completion" of the first stage of a
relationship. The couple cement the foundation they've laid down with a commitment ceremony.
There is a danger when this card comes up, however, of the querent feeling like they've finished the project when, in
truth, they've only finished that first part. Many see marriage as the goal of a relationship rather than the completion
of a stage. A reader might do well to remind the querent that while a celebration for having completed this first stage
is well deserved, they need to also think of ways to re-energize themselves. There is more to do.
Four of Cups: Doldrums

With the Cater of Cups the relationship has matured; it has been tested in many ways and found to be stable, but
also wears some battle scars. The early excitement is tempered by "reality," bad as well as good memories, perhaps
some regrets, and unfulfilled dreams. But it has been strengthened by shared experience and growth, and much
water under the bridge.
Unfortunately, because of its stability, the relationship tends to be taken for granted, and so it may lose its excitement
and become boring. Though the relationship is comfortable, its stasis sows the seeds of emotional dissatisfaction and
prepares the way for future change. Though there may be little to complain about, there may be a feeling that
something is missing. Solid Relationship.
Water is about movement and flow, making the stability of the "fours" contrary to this element. Which is why it's a
card about dissatisfaction. A man sitting under a tree with three cups is offered a fourth by a hand from a cloud. He
seems to be staring at the three cups he has, the fourth from the cloud suggesting that he feels unhappy with those
three. This is sometimes called the "grass is greener" card. It indicates discontent. What we thought was wonderful
when our feelings were new is now taken for granted. We might even start to find fault with it, become irritated by
what we imagine is lacking or wrong with it.
The man under the tree is still, comfortably seated even, but it's clear that his feelings are restless. Think of those
who stew in their emotions, grumbling and grousing, maybe wasting their time drinking or spending too much time
on the internet. He's too locked in habit and routine to move, but habit and routine no longer give him comfort. He
is dissatisfied and bored.
The querent might be on either side of this stagnant relationship, the man under the tree or the unappreciated cups.
Either way, something must be done to bring these feelings out into the open and change them. There is still time to
salvage the relationship, but that time is running out.
Four of Swords: Peace

In the Cater of Swords, strife and division have come full circle; the fight has been won, an indefensible position
abandoned, a truce formed, or a compromise reached. (The intellectual/military ambiguity is intentional.) The
situation has stabilized, oppositions are balanced. Intellectual activity has arrived at a well-rounded idea, a workedout theory, a coherent system, a stable organization. This is a good time to take advantage the peace and stability to
consolidate ideas, contemplate the organization of things and explore consequences of that organization. However,
conceptual stability and familiarity can lead to intellectual stagnation. Take advantage of the peace and quiet to look
for weaknesses, shore up defenses and regroup forces for the next advance. Stable Boundaries.
A young man rests on a pallet, three swords above, one under him. Though this card (in the Rider-Waite deck)
makes the young man look dead, he is really resting. This is the "meditation" card and it advises the querent that
they need to rest, reflect, recuperate and find their way back to themselves. Being that Swords are emblems of
fighting, of anxieties and arguments, the stillness of the number four is usually a welcome respite. This is a time for
everyone to "put up their swords" and allow wounds inflicted in these mental or verbal battles to heal.
There is a fascinating story behind this image of the young man on the coffin (credit to Mojo for this history lesson):
Before knights went off to battle or on crusade they would commissioned a sarcophagus for themselves in case they
died. Those that returned safe and sound, if truly chivalrous, would literally lie down in their coffin in a show of
humility and contrition. They would meditate on whether they'd been true to their mission, their king and god. Also
on how easily they could have ended up in this coffin as a corpse rather than alive and offering up prayers of thanks
for being spared.
Thus, this card usually indicates that the querent has survived a time of arguments, misunderstandings, mental or
verbal abuse, even a nervous breakdown. They could be recuperating from a physical illness or injury as well. The
Four of Swords is that time they need to heal, clear their head, just think about what they did and what they need to
do differently from now on.
The suit of Swords takes a much-needed mental breather in this card. It can signal that the querent has retreated, or
should be advised to literally or figuratively retreat from what they've been thinking far too much about in order to
rest their brain and re-evaluate their position.
Four of Pentacles: Productivity

The - perhaps ephemeral - success of the Trey of Pentacles, has been built into a reliable pattern of productivity in
the Cater: The craftsperson or artist has sufficient skill in his or her craft to work efficiently and reliably with
dependable quality. The business is well established, and can be expected to remain profitable. The athlete has
reached an admirable level of proficiency; regular victory is to be expected.
The Cater of Pentacles represents success, comfort, material well-being, and financial security. However, excessive
attachment to comfort or possessions, fear of loss or failure, hoarding, miserliness, greed, and preoccupation with
money, prizes or success all may retard growth. Material Security.
A man holds tight to his four pentacles in this card. The man in 3/Pents, who got work, money, luck, health is, in this
card, holding on tight to what he developed. He is not investing it or spending it or sharing it; he is not trying to get
more work or add on a new room to his house. He is just trying to keep things still and unchanging.
This is sometimes called the miser card, but that may be too harsh a judgment on it. There are times when it's good
to hold onto what you have and this card can be read as advice that there are currently no good investments, so hold
onto your money, or that this is not a time to change jobs or take on new projects. Just keep doing what you're doing.
It may even suggest that you don't talk about your work. A non-disclosure agreement.
On the positive side, this tells the Querent that they're in a position of status, health, money, even comfort. Business
is good and stable, work is steady, money is in the bank. There is, however, a negative to this card in that the Querent
might be holding on too tight. They might be too afraid of to spend any money, too afraid to take on any new work.
In the most extreme negative, this is the card of hoarders and packrats. Also the card of jealous relationships where
one person views the other as their property and won't let them leave the house. This can be the card of the shut-ins
and agoraphobics.
So while this card can be good advice to the spendthrift or shopaholic that they need to hold onto their money, or to
the workaholic to not take on more jobs, it can also be the opposite, advising the miser to be more generous with
good luck and good fortune. It is a card that can be telling the querent to enjoy what they have because holding still
leads to stagnation.
FIVES/SINKS
Active Pentad
There are only Four Directions, but the Active Pentad moves in a Fifth Direction. Thus the Active Pentad opens the
Way to a New World, a New Dimension, incommensurable with the preceding Numbers, except for the Monad,
which is the source of all (i.e. 5 is divisible by 1 but not by 2, 3, or 4). Yet the Pentad is a part of the Decad (5 divides
10), and so an essential part of the Final Completion.
Passive Pentad
The Active Pentad creates the Passive Pentad by placing a Fifth Unit above the Plane of the Tetrad, and so the
Pentad represents the Fifth Element, the Quintessence, the Eternal Celestial transcending the Mutable Mundane
Elements. The Pythagoreans said the Pentad is Life, for it brings the Vegetative Soul, the Principle of Life, into
Inanimate, Nonliving Nature. Thereby is a new realm of possibilities revealed, obeying new Laws.
The Monad is the Seed, the Dyad imparts Change to it, the Pentad gives it Life, and the Decad Completes and
Contains it. These Numbers form a Geometric Progression, for as the Seed is to Change, so is Life to the Whole
(1:2 :: 5:10); and as the Seed is to Life, so is Change to the Whole (1:5 :: 2:10).
The Pythagoreans name the Pentad "Alteration," for it creates a Novel Situation, for better or worse; indeed it is
often initially worse, but ultimately better. For the Pentad is a Breakdown; it destabilizes the Stasis (and
Complaisance) of the Tetrad, and confronts it with a Problem - or Opportunity. As the Tetrad is the Principle of
Orderly Linear and Cyclic Change, so is the Pentad the Principle of Unpredictable, Creative Nonlinear Change.
The Pythagoreans also call the Pentad "Aphrodite," for this Goddess has the power to disrupt the normal Order of
Things, whether among Gods or Mortals. Thus when Hera must alter Zeus's decisions for the World, She borrows
Aphrodite's Girdle, and then Her Wishes cannot be denied. Likewise an agent of the Unexpected and Unintended is
the Planet Mercury and the God Hermes, who is called the Trickster. He is the Psychagogos (Spirit Guide), who
leads Souls out of the Mundane Realm into the Unseen Realm (A-ides = Hades), the Patron of all BoundaryCrossers.
In the Fifth Cosmological Stage the normal Order of the Universe is temporarily disrupted (with permanent effects).
Thus in the Babylonian Epic of Erra, Four-square Marduk, grown old and complaisant, is temporarily driven from
His throne by Erra (Nergal), a violent God, known for bringing crises, such as forest fires, fevers and plagues. So He
wreaks havoc on the World for no other purpose than the Chaos it engenders.
(Frequently the Pentad manifests as a demand for Equality or Justice. Thus the Pythagoreans call the Pentad
"Nemesis," "Justice," and "the Equalizer," since it takes from one and gives to another so as to establish Equivalence,
which may be more or less than Equality.)
As fours were about stability and maintaining what you have built up, the fives are about instability and the loss of at
least some of what you have. Five is the number of severity and fear but also strength. Hence, it's no surprise that the
Fives seem to pose both a severe problem, and a way to escape the fear felt at facing that problem.
Dealing with this upset in the development of our passion, emotion, idea or work humbles, teaches and matures us.
It isn't a pleasant experience, and our pride, especially, is likely to suffer, but it does strengthen us.
Five of Wands: Spiritual Crisis

The fiery spirit of the Ace of Wands had settled into a warm, tame glow in the Cater. Though comfortable, this
situation could not last, and the Sink of Wands represents a sudden, violent disruption, perhaps of a spirit settling
into habit, perhaps of a will becoming lazy. The Sink makes new struggle unavoidable. A Bolt from the blue.
Five similar young men with five wands battle among themselves. When you invest energy in a project, you often find
that it develops and grows quickly in the early stages, but not in later stages. Like a small company just starting, or
someone who runs for mayor of a small town, the lack of serious competition make success likely. But when that
company gets big enough, or the little mayor wants to be a state representative, then winning becomes harder. More
competition, or just stronger competition makes it harder.
The Five of Wands is about this moment when we find ourselves competing with others who have just as much clout
and ambition. It predicts conflict and power struggles, inner doubts and fears. Like an athlete who stands out in high
school, yet in college finds that he's not so amazing or special, we can lose our passion and drive to succeed.
This is, as with all the fives, a blow to one's pride. The question: "how can I stand out?" The answer is to over come
your fear of competition and be bold. This is not the time to retreat or play it safe. This is the time to pull out all the
stops and do something different.
The querent should be advised that they're looking at some stiff competition. The battle may be playful, a test rather
than serious, but their performance could make a difference to their future.
Five of Cups: Emotional Crisis

In the Cater of Cups the relationship was perfect - too perfect, for now the perfect relationship is on the rocks. The
Sink of Cups represents an unexpected emotional crisis: your lover is having affair; you fall in love with someone
else; the return of an "old flame"; an unanticipated divorce or breakup; the sudden recognition that a relationship is
unfulfilling; a friend has betrayed you; a relative, friend, or lover dies; etc. Conversely, you might suddenly discover
the worth of somebody you had long ago settled into disliking! A Cup overturned.
A young man looks down in despair at three spilled cups of wine, never seeing the two still standing. This is the card
of spilled milk. It suggests an obsession over something that has been lost so much so that what remains goes
unnoticed. The querent might be feeling disappointed in someone for not living up to their expectations, making
them blind to the person's good qualities. Or the querent themselves might have done something they now regret,
and they just can't get past it.
Remember the Four of Cups and how much fault and dissatisfaction the man found with his three cups? Now they're
gone and he is humbled, crushed. Why didn't he value them as he should have? Two cups remain, but he may not
know they're there, or he may fears to look back. What if they, too are gone?
The question: "How do I stop from drowning in these mortifying feelings?" The answer is to have the strength to
stop staring down at what went wrong. There is no finding redemption if you're too lost in woe and fear to look for it.
The querent is likely going through a time where they feel shame over their bad feelings, regret over something they
lost or knocked over. The reader must remind them that all is not so hopeless as it seems. They can redeem
themselves.
Five of Swords: Intellectual Crisis

The peace of the Cater of Swords is shattered by the Sink. Something upon which you depended has been taken
away and your unassailable position has collapsed. Perhaps your assumptions have been undermined. Or someone
gave you bad information, perhaps intentionally. Or new, crucial information has been revealed. Or you thought it
was a rational argument, but it is being conducted by innuendo, rumor, slander, etc. Or perhaps your thinking has
undergone a conceptual revolution, and you now see that your carefully constructed intellectual edifice is - not wrong
- but irrelevant. Defenses penetrated.
A smirking young man gathers up swords won in battle from two, humiliated losers. In arguments and battles of
ideas there are going to be times when one just loses or has to surrender. The winner seen in this card has clearly
been winning fights. Maybe fairly, maybe not, but it is clear that he has some advantage as well as the confidence that
no one can beat him.
Pride can make us blind to our own limits and weaknesses. It can lure us into fights we weren't ready for, or weren't
equal to winning. Most of the time, we probably knew it was a bad idea, yet we let ourselves be tricked, lured, or
goated into fighting. And now we are dishonored.
The Question: "How can I survive this disgrace?"
The Answer: "By learning from it your weaknesses and limits."
Losses like this teach us to know ourselves and be better prepared for the next time. They teach us how and when to
walk away from fights, which can often be harder than giving in, and so save ourselves from the greater damage of
failure.
Note that this card in the future position can sometime teach this querent this lesson without making them go
through it. A reader can say, "Don't let yourself get into a fight with this person, you will lose," and if the querent
listens, they will avoid having to learn the hard way how to be strong and walk away from such fights.
Five of Pentacles: Material Crisis

In the Cater of Pentacles material well-being seemed assured, but Fortune rota volvitur - the Wheel of Fortune turns
and suddenly the old material security is gone. The Sink of Pentacles may come in many forms: a new, unbeatable
competitor, an illness or physical injury that hinders you, an unexpected change in the market, unanticipated
material losses, major failures or expenses, unpredictable job loss, etc. A change of Fortune.
Another famous card. Two poor folk sit outside a church with five pentacles on its stained glass window. This is a
card that predicts loss, financial loss, bad luck, a set-back in health. It is a difficult time, as all fives are. The poor folk
feel embarrassed by their poverty, but they are too proud to ask for help, preferring to rely on each other rather than
begging alms from the rich church.
This card relates as well to the Hierophant's emphasis on community and social norms. In some views of the card
those out in the storm have chosen to be out there. The "church" disapproves of them or their relationships and
rather than conform to traditional standards, they stay outside. Similar to the other fives, there is, once again, the
issue of pride and humility.
The problem, "How can I survive this impoverished time without surrendering my pride?"
The answer: "You have to reconsider your values."
While those in this card may have lost material things, even the respect of society, they still have each other. Such
times teach us who our real friends are, who is honestly generous, and what really matters to us.
When times are good again, we will remember what we learned in these hard times and not be fooled by sham
friendships or capricious social regard. We will know who and what we can really trust.
SIXES/SICES
Active Hexad
The Pentad blazed a path into a New Direction, and opened a new territory; now the Hexad settles it, delimiting its
Bounds, and defining the Six Directions (Above, Below and the other Four). The Hexad goes to the Zenith and to
the Nadir, and so defines the Limits of the Cosmic Axis.
The Impulse of the Pentad is unbalanced - so it may aim for the Heavens and neglect the Abyss, or aim for the Abyss
and neglect the Heavens; but the Hexad balances it: as Above so Below. Thus the Hexad brings the New Dimension
into the Realm of the Known and into the Cosmos.
There are Three Active Hexads in the path from the Monad to the Decad: The First Hexad carries the Monad to its
Completion in the Triad (1 + 2 + 3 = 6); the Second Hexad carries the Tetrad to its Completion in the Passive
Hexad (4 + 5 + 6 = 15, 1 + 5 = 6); the Third Hexad carries the Heptad, which is the Hidden Monad, to its
Completion in the Ennead (7 + 8 + 9 = 24, 2 + 4 = 6). This is so because the Decad itself is no more than the Final
Unity (10 = 1).
In the First Transformation, Unity (1) advances through Separation (2) and Completion (3) to Consolidation (4).
Catalyzed by the Pentad, the Active Hexad creates the Second Transformation from the First, for the Second
advances from Hidden Unity (7) through Reciprocation (8) and Completion (9) to Consolidation (10).
The Hexad is the Principal of Harmony, for it incorporates both the Dyad and the Triad, and these two together
generate every Perfect Consonance (the Octave, Fifth and Fourth). And so the Pythagoreans say that it conquers
Difference, and brings together whatever is Contrary or at Variance.
The Pentad brought the Vegetative Life Principle into the World; now the Hexad imparts the Principle of Animate
Life. The Pythagoreans call the Hexad the Maker of the Soul and Condition of Life, and they say it gives the Body
its Composition and Articulation, for the Soul is Harmonic in that it Reconciles and Orders the Opposites. For this
reason, and because the Hexad is Equal to its Own Parts, they call it Wholeness of Limbs, Health, and the Panacea
(All-Healer).
Passive Hexad
The Passive Hexad is a Thing of Beauty, Excellence and Wholeness, bounded and symmetric in all Six Directions,
limited in its reach toward the Heavens and Abyss, as well as toward the Four Quarters of Earth.
The Triad is the First Perfection, because it has Beginning, Middle and End, but the Hexad is the Second Perfection
because it is Equal to its Parts (1 + 2 + 3 = 6 = 1 X 2 X 3). The Hexad includes the Triad's Perfection (but not vice
versa), for the Hexad comprises the Monad, Dyad and Triad, which correspond to the Beginning, End and Middle,
respectively.
The Pythagoreans call the Hexad "Reconciliation" and "Androgynous" because it blends the Female and the Male (6
= 2 X 3), whereas the Pentad merely joins them (5 = 2 + 3). Thus the Hexad is represented by the Hexagram, which
comprises a Male (upward) Triangle of Fire, and the Female (downward) Triangle of Water, and so it is the Perfect
Balance, the Fiery Water and the Watery Fire. So also they say the Hexad represents Marriage, and beyond that
Offspring, because the Hexad is Equal to its own Parts. In this way, the Hexad reconciles all Polarities, and the
Pythagoreans say that the Hexad reflects the Perfection of the Universe.
In summary, the Hexad heals the Crisis of the Pentad, and establishes a New Order characterized by Harmony,
Balance and Reconciliation.
Sixes are the restoration of balance and harmony after the upsets of the fives. These cards predict an exchange, a
give and take that results in a new equilibrium. It may not last, but for that moment, everything is stable. With this
card, there is an almost "Ah-HA!" of recognition as if you've found a solution, and more than a little awe at its
perfect symmetry.
If you connect the sixes to the Lovers card you'll see how it works. Like Gemini, you recognize your twin, your soul
mate, your equal. Maybe you didn't even know how uneven, how lopsided your life was, but now that you've met this
person or thing your inner balance is restored. Here is the give and take that the cards say you need to achieve
harmony.
Six of Wands: Courage

The spiritual crisis of the Sink of Wands has been taken as an opportunity for growth and has been turned into a
victory. The somewhat shallow, pasteboard stability of the Cater of Wands has been rounded out into the balanced
wholeness of the Sice. You have been to the bottom of the dark abyss as well as to the shining heavens' heights; you
have confronted your worst fears; tempered by experience, you now have the courage to face anything. With this
courage comes satisfaction with the past and optimism for the future.
The Victory Card: A victorious man on a horse, carrying a wand with a laurel wreath, is applauded by all. Here is
the conclusion to what happened with the Five of Wands. Competition was fierce, the querent was bold and stood
out not only as the winner, but as the crowd pleaser. Now he finds a unique equilibrium. The crowd offers the victor
applause, which energizes him and makes him eager to keep winning. He, in turn, offers them a champion to adore,
giving them energy and inspiration. Both are uplifted: the victor with the adulation, the crowd with a hero to
adulate.
We've all seen this sort of exchange of energy with sports or rock heroes who are "pumped up" by the enthusiasm of
the crowd and in turn, put on a performance that energizes their fans. Of course, the star must keep putting on good
shows if he expects to hold onto his fans, and the crowd must maintain their level of excitement to get their show.
Which is why the card also carries a warning not to become too attached or reliant such shows or on such applause.
Heroes can have bad days, and fans can drift away.
At this moment, however, the querent gets the victory and recognition they need to feel invincible, and gives back to
those cheering him on.
Six of Cups: Acceptance

The emotional crisis of the Sink of Cups has been weathered, and shallow complaisance has given way to new
balance and wholeness in the relationship, though not without nostalgia for the old "simplicity." Nevertheless, the
reborn relationship is healthier and more stable, in part because, having plumbed the depths, now limits and ends
are acknowledged, and expectations are more realistic. Partners are more apt to be accepted as they are, and neither
damned nor placed on pedestals; life is accepted as it is. With this acceptance comes emotional maturity.
Two children among six flowering cups. There is a great deal of rich and complex symbolism in this card, but in a
nutshell, it is a moment of innocent love, the boy and the girl both touching that one cup with the flower in it. He
gets joy from giving it to her, and she gets joy in receiving it from him. This card is most often viewed as nostalgia, of
some old friend or thing coming back into our lives and letting us relive a happy moment from our past. The real
meaning, however, is "joy," in particular, a known joy. This is the connection we make with someone (or something)
who always makes us feel happy. They, in turn, get an equal measure of joy from making us happy.
The joy we get is familiar and reliable. This might be gained by flipping through old photos and remembering
happier times, chatting with a beloved family member, meeting with good friends for a drink, indulging in familiar
foods, or enjoying the comfort of a favorite pair of slippers.
As with all the sixes, this remarkable moment of happiness cannot last, no more than the children can stay innocent
children. This known joy, like a bowl of chicken soup, can make everything right and better for the moment, but the
querent should not rely on it as a miracle cure. This card can also warn that the querent is too attached to the
"known," and afraid to experience anything new or unknown. They may be too reliant on old habits or too attached
to an old lover.
For this moment, however, the reader can tell the querent that this is what they need to restore emotional
equilibrium: to connect with someone or something that they know will make them happy.
Six of Swords: Understanding

Though your intellectual edifice was shattered by the Sink of Swords, you now thank it for blasting your illusory
certainty and freeing you to advance to a new level of understanding, from which perspective you can see both sides
of the strife which had preceded. With this understanding comes serenity.
A boat of swords being ferried across a river with a woman as passenger. The classic Rider-Waite meaning is that
one is leaving difficulties behind. A trip or change of scene may be the answer to restoring balance here. But there is
more to it than this. In relation to the mind, ideas and words of the sword suit, this is also about finding a solutions to
math problems and brain twisters, not just troubles.
The ferryman is part of the give/take here. He has a fare thanks to this passenger, and his passenger has a way
across the river. What he symbolizes is help in finding answers or solutions to problems. He might be a reference
book or website, or perhaps just someone who will listen while you talk and work things out in your head. He rows
you in the right direction, away from confusion and mental turmoil to smooth, thoughtful waters. Waters clear and
clam that you can, in fact, see the other shore, the answer, in sight!
There it is, a way to make your idea, your argument, your formula work smoothly, perfectly, beautifully. I sometimes
call this the "Eureka" card in that it has that feeling of a scientist catching sight of a solution.
The reader should warn the querent that they haven't arrived at that other shore yet. There may be a good deal to
work out, but this is a break-through moment where the mind is working once again. And whoever, or whatever
helped you get there also feels mentally rewarded.
Note that this card can also be about trips by boat.
Six of Pentacles: Generosity

The crisis of the Sink of Pentacles has been faced, leading to a more balanced attitude toward material concerns. A
fortune lost can be regained, if such is desired, but it may not be desired, for the striving life is no longer so attractive.
A career can be changed, or life can be turned to non-career activities. Acquisitiveness is now balanced by generosity,
and striving after worldly success is balanced by teaching, guidance and coaching. With this material success in a wellrounded life comes generosity.
A wealthy man holding scales hands out money to the poor. This is quite a contrast to the Five of Pentacles with a
shut door between the poor on the outside and the rich on the inside. Also where the poor might have been too
proud to take charity, or the rich unwilling to give to those who they deemed unworthy of their generosity.
Here, in the Six of Pentacles, the poor kneel and hold out hands for the money, not too proud to take it, and the
merchant freely gives it, not judging them as he does so. Both gain in this exchange.
The question that must be asked when this card appears, however, is which is the querent? Do they have too much
and need to restore balance to their lives by giving some of it away? Meaning, perhaps, that it's time to clear out the
closet and give old clothes to a local charity, do volunteer work or make a donation? Even, perhaps, help out a friend
in need?
Or is it time to accept that gift of money being offered by a generous relative, go to a free clinic, try for a scholarship
or seek other types of assistance?
Balanced as this give and take is, it poses a quandary not seen in the other sixes. Which is how to freely give and take.
The giver must give freely, not because they want to feel superior or good about themselves. Likewise, the querent
must not let pride, resentment or shame get in the way of taking. We all need assistance now and then.
The message to the querent might well be to accept what you're offered now. It may be that in the future you'll have
a chance to restore the balance by helping out another as you were helped.
SEVENS/SEPTS
Genesis
The Heptad is the Monas Arcana (Hidden Monad) or Second Monad, for it is the impulse that finds completion in
the Decad, just as the First Monad finds completion in the Tetrad (10-7 = 4-1). Like the Monad, the Heptad is its
own independent Principle; it is Incommensurable, because it neither divides nor is divided by any of the other
numbers of the Decad, excepting only the Monad. The Monads and their Completions form an arithmetic
progression (1, 4, 7, 10), the First Completion being the Mean of the two Monads (4 = mean[1,7]), and the Second
Monad being the Mean of the two Completions (7 = mean[4,10]). In each case the Monads (1, 7) evolve through
stages of Separation (2, 8), Completion (3, 9) and Consolidation (4, 10).
Similarly, the Pythagoreans call the Heptad "Athena", for like Her the Heptad is born of neither mother (Even) nor
father (Odd), but is a Second Monad, sprung like Her from the Source, the First Monad, the Head of the Father. As
Athena, the Forager (Agelaia), gathers disparate things and brings them together in one place, so the Heptad gathers
together many disparate influences and from them makes a new Monad, a new Beginning, a new Principle of
Generation.
Likewise the Pythagoreans call the Heptad a "Flock" (Agelos), for it is a Cluster of multiple forces, as when the Seven
Planets act at once, each exerting Its own influence. This Cluster of Forces is an unsymmetrical and unstable
equilibrium, and so the Passive Heptad has a delicate structure and represents an ill-defined situation. Thus the
slightest perturbation may cause a sudden, unpredictable change, for whichever force happens to dominate at that
moment may thereafter prevail over the others. Therefore, the Pythagoreans call the Heptad "Chance," since it
represents the Critical Point, the Crisis, the Coincidence, and thereby the Impulse to the Second Creation and thus
the Second Completion, which constitutes Full Embodiment.
The Heptad itself is Victory and Fulfillment, for it brings many things to completion. The Heptad is a return to the
Unity and Wholeness of the Monad. As there is a Descending Triadic Path, from Unity (1), through Goal (2), to
Achievement (3) and finally to Order (4); so also is there an Ascending Triadic Path, from Order (4), through Crisis
(5), to Reconciliation (6) and finally to Hidden Unity (7). In this way too a person's life is brought to completion in
Seven Stages (corresponding to the Planets), and the Seventh Stage brings one to the Threshold of Rebirth. So also
is the Heptad the Root of all Cycles, of the moon, of women, of tones, of weeks, et cetera.
The Heptad is the Seventh Door, the Gateway to Initiation and Rebirth, for it is both the Completion and the New
Beginning (the Second Monad). Such was Inanna's (Ishtar's) Descent to the Underworld, which was through Seven
Gates. Further, the First Tetrad (1, 2, 3, 4) is the Nigredo, the Descent to Matter; the Second Tetrad (4, 5, 6, 7) is the
Albedo, the Ascent to Spirit; but the Third Tetrad (7, 8, 9, 10) is the Rubedo, the Descent of the Spirit into Matter.
This is what the Alchemists tell us.
There are two Symbols of the Heptad, for it is seven asymmetrically arrayed forces, converging on a point, the
Seven-Rayed Star. Or it is the Monad blazing again in the Center of the Hexad, which is therefore the Seven Places:
Center, Above, Below and the other Four. Thus does the Monad of the Rational Soul blaze in the Hexad of the
Living Animal, for Plato said the Soul has Seven Numbers.
The Heptad is the Complete Person, the Embodied Spirit, for it is the Three Psychical Elements (Cognition, Spirit
and Appetite), and the Four Material Elements. (And so there are Three Spiritual Virtues and Four Practical
Virtues.) The Greek Numeral for the Heptad is Z, which stands for Zao (Zeta-Alpha-Omega = to Live), for the
Heptad is Life, since it is the Offspring of the first Actual (vs. Potential) Numbers that are Odd and Even: Father (3)
and Mother (4) and Child (7).
The Heptad controls all material things, for it comprises the Four Elements and the Three Means that bind them
together, Fire to Air, Air to Water and Water to Earth, and these Means govern the elemental changes. Thus the
elements Fire, Air, Water and Earth form a geometric progression, for as Earth is to Air so is Water to Fire; and as
Earth is to Water so is Air to Fire. Look at the triangular figures, their Alchemical Signs, and you will see.
In summary, the Heptad represents an unstable situation; either a new force upsetting the harmony and balance of
the Hexad, or a new impulse arising in its center. There are many possible outcomes. If the opportunity is missed,
another cycle of seven is to be expected, but if the critical moment is seized, the result will be a rebirth into a new
transformative process.
The fives were about instability and loss, losing momentum, losing love, losing an argument, and losing money. The
Sixes restored harmony with their give and take. Now comes the Sevens. Seven is a magic number, a number of
creativity and individuality. You might want to stay in the comfort and company of the Sixes, but challenges are a
part of life, and we often have to face them on our own.
As with the Chariot, the Sevens require that you take control in a tough situation, manage your responsibilities, and
find a way to succeed. One constant is the paradox of the chariot, a card that should be about movement, but is
pictured at rest. Likewise, the driver of a chariot never moves. He holds fast to the reins and stands still there in the
car. It goes from one point to the other at his command, but he, carried along within, remains steadfast.
In the Sevens, that is the most common way to succeed. Remain steadfast within. Thus these cards offer you a
chance to show not only what you've learned and retrained from your trails, but how well you deal with the
unexpected.
Seven of Wands: Advance into the Mystery

You will need the courage you earned with the Sice of Wands, for now you are poised at the brink; the way looks
difficult, but your quest may succeed if you have confidence, put aside anxiety, indecision and hesitation, and
advance boldly into the mystery. However, if the critical moment is missed, you will be back at square one. Initiation,
rebirth.
A man defends himself with one wand against six others. This is the "under siege" card. The stakes are high, and the
querent is under attack; even worse, the odds are against him. This is where the energy you've been using to create
must be used to defend what you've created.
Usually this card indicates a disagreement with how you are directing and managing your career, criticism of a
philosophy, or a schism in the religion. Those who you gathered in, who were your supporters are now at odds with
you. They think you're in error and that someone else could do better. They want you to step down.
And so you're on the defensive, fighting to regain control. The card urges you to stand your ground. The reader can
tell the querent that though his enemies seem stronger, they don't expect resistance, and his fighting spirit will daunt
them.
This card tells us to use what we've learned about maintaining our energy, about being bold and stalwart and we will
win the battle.
Seven of Cups: Pursuing Dreams

The Sept of Cups brings a plethora of attractive possibilities, some actual, some imaginary. You are pulled in many
directions at once, and if you fall under the wrong influence or are misled by an illusion, the hard-won permanence
of the Sice of Cups may be shattered, and the relation reduced back to prima materia. On the other hand, pursuing
the right dream will take you into a new realm of emotional fulfillment. Imagination, illusion.
A man sees seven cups floating on a cloud, each with something enticing rising out of it. This is the "daydream"
card. Cups are the suit of emotions, but also fantasies and illusions. It is card where our own dreams and emotions
make the situation difficult. Think of a girl who gets asked out by three different boys. Her strong emotions toward
each keep her from saying yes or no; instead, she indulges in fantasies of how the dates might go, which not only puts
off the decision, but makes it harder.
This is the Seven of Cups where you, the chooser, are given the challenge of getting past mixed emotions and selfdeception. It predicts that the querent is or will be faced with choices that emotionally pull them in several directions.
Daydreams of what could be will further muddy the waters. Seven, as mentioned, is a number of creativity, and cups
are the suit of creative dreamers. Which makes the challenge of this Seven to rein in that abundance of creativity. To
stop it from running wild.
Emotions, too, have to be reined in. The querent needs to concentrate on what they really feel, really want and can
realistically imagine getting from each of these choices. The choice must be made not hastily, but soberly and
maturely. And definitively.
Once again, the message is to stand fast. Don't let your emotions carry you off into fantasies and daydreams. Stay in
reality, focus on making a decision. This card can also indicate a person who is living in dreams, preferring fantasy to
reality, or someone lost in "their cups." Meaning using alcohol or drugs to escape reality.
Seven of Swords: Leap to Commitment

The Sice of Swords brought serenity and understanding, but also a certain paralysis, for it quenched your
commitment to old (intellectual or other) loyalties. The Sept reveals that you are subject to many conflicting
tendencies. Without firm commitments, there is a danger you will turn with each breeze, but the very instability of
the situation makes it likely that you will commit impulsively and take daring action in a direction you and others are
unlikely to have foreseen, a "leap to commitment." However, success is far from assured. Leap to commitment, daring or
impulsive action.
A thief sneaks off with five out of seven swords. It's no surprise that when it comes to swords, attacks are sneaky and
tricky, not direct like with Wands. Yet this is still an attack that requires creativity and steadfastness. The image also
us back to number five (stolen swords) and "loss" along with what remains behind, number two, and choices.
This is the "Thief" card, and though it can be taken literally (protect yourself against theft), it usually means a
different type of stealing. Being the intellect and communication, what might be stolen are ideas, something you've
written, or even an internet password. The querent should be warned to be on their guard, especially against those
who are trying to extract information from them.
Stand guard over what you value, and try to outwit the thief. In some cases, in fact, this card might be advising the
querent that they have to be the thief. They need to be tricky, sneaky, even dishonest because, in some situations,
honesty is not the best policy. Sometimes flattery, lies, dissembling is necessary to get back what you feel belongs to
you.
Seven of Pentacles: A New Venture

The Sice of Pentacles has given you the resources, skills, reputation, etc. for accomplishments in the world especially risky projects - beyond the capabilities of others. There are many opportunities, and some indecision and
anxiety is to be expected. Nevertheless, with wise choice, ingenuity, good timing, perseverance and hard work your
goal will be reached, though perhaps not quickly. On the other hand, failure is possible, with resulting
disappointment and loss of resources, reputation or credibility. However, the Sink and Sice have taught you to
withstand such tribulations, so the risks are more than balanced by the opportunity of taking on a new role and
accomplishing something important in the world. Risk taking.
A farmer leans on his spade gazing at pentacles that grow on a bush like fruit. He has done all the work, planted,
planned, toiled. Now, all he can do is wait. And wait he has, for so long that he's growing impatient. He's beginning
to doubt that the fruit on this tree will ever be ready to harvest and sell.
In all four Sevens, the challenge presented cannot be won unless the querent is determined to succeed and will not
let himself give up. The challenge in the solid, earthy Pents emphasizes this the most. Sometimes called "Failure" this
is a card where one's patience is beginning to wear thin. You may be tempted to announce that it's all a failure and
walk away. Or, weary of waiting, you could make a mistake, assume that the fruit is ripe when it's not.
This is an especially hard card (and challenge) for someone who has been out of work for a while, or has been trying
to get back their health. They have to be told that, hard as it is, they must extend their patience. They must also be
careful to recognize real opportunity from false opportunity. It's all too easy to act out of frustration, thinking that
doing anything is better than doing nothing.
But acting out of frustration can lead to failure. Real opportunity is on its way. Hang in there and use all you've
learned to recognize it when you see it.
EIGHTS/WHEETS
Genesis
The Octad rebalances the instability of the Heptad and sets the stage for further development, so the Pythagoreans
call it Safety and Foundation. It is the Octave: beginning of a similar progression on another plane. Since the
Heptad comprises the complete cycle, which has prepared the way, therefore the Octad is the Second Beginning, the
actual start on the Eightfold Path to universal bliss and cosmic equilibrium. Thus it is like the Dyad, but cubed
(solidified), which puts its on the path to realization in the Decad. The Octad is called Paradise Regained; it is the
Novice beginning a new life, the goal of the Initiate, and represents regeneration, renewal and resurrection.
The Octad is the Number of Divinity, for it is the Eighth Celestial Sphere, which encloses all the rest, and so the
Pythagoreans say "All is Eight." Likewise the apex of a Babylonian temple was its Eighth Story, where earth and
heaven meet.
When Inanna (Ishtar), Queen of Heaven, whose symbol is the Eight-Rayed Star, came through the Seven Gates of
the Underworld, at each gate She was stripped of one of the Seven Powers of Office. Then She was required to
crawl naked through the Eighth Gate, that in the Face of the Throne Room. Thus humbled, She came into the
presence of Her sister Ereshkigal, Queen of the Underworld, and the Anunnaki, Her Seven Judges. These Eight
overcame Inanna, and the glance of Ereshkigal brought about Her mortification. This was Inanna's Nigredo, for
from this state of putrefaction She was reborn.
The Dyad is the Female Principle, and the Octad is the Threefold (2 X 2 X 2) Vessel of Rebirth. Thus the
Pythagoreans call the Octad "Mother" because it is Female and belongs to Rhea, the Mother of the Gods, for
although the Dyad belongs to Rhea in extension, the Octad belongs to Her seminally. In the Dyad She was the
Mother of Nature, in the Octad She is the Spiritual Mother. The Octad is the Fount of Female Wisdom, and as
Philosophia She nourishes the Seven Liberal Arts (1 + 7). The Pythagoreans also call the Octad the Source of
Wisdom, Creative Thought, Love, Friendship, Prudence, Council and Justice. The Eightfold Life is a step above the
Sevenfold Life of ordinary mankind, for the Four Elements of the body are governed by the Fourfold Soul. The
common Tripartite Soul is completed by its fourth part, the Celestial Soul: Anima caelestis (8) atque animae rationabilis (7)
& animalis (6) & vegetabilis (5).
The Octad integrates the First Monad, the Mundane Impulse, with the Second Monad, the Celestial Impulse (8 = 1
+ 7), for both Monads are sui generis, unique principles, neither engendered nor engendering within the Decad
(since no number in the Decad either divides or is divided by 7).
The Octad also represents Regular Division and Order in the Three-Dimensional Realm (2 X 2 X 2) as the Tetrad
does in the Two-Dimensional Realm (2 X 2), which is the Earthly Plane, the Mundane Dimensions. Thus the Octad
is the Cosmos: Organization and Law in the Celestial Dimension as well as in the Mundane Dimensions, for the
Octad comprises two ordered worlds (2 X 4), the Mundane and the Celestial, for heaven has Four Quarters as does
earth. The Octad represents the eternal, regular Laws of the Universe (material and spiritual), and the Pythagoreans
call it Embracer of all Harmonies For Rhea is the Natural Flow (rhoe) of heaven and earth; and as She flows (rhuo)
She breaths its eternal rhythm (rhuthmos).
In summary, the Octad is the first step on the path toward spiritual transformation, which ultimately brings
understanding of both the celestial and mundane orders.
Going with the Rider-Waite deck, we'll relate the Eights to Strength. The Eights are like the Maiden, the will and
intelligence to bring our passions to heel. By doing so, the two make the lion's energy more efficient, more powerful
and lofty in purpose.
The number eight is, likewise, about limitations but also about transcending them. As with Strength, having rules
allow one to achieve something higher, more divine, as wild fire banked in a fireplace creates more heat and light
then if it was allowed to burn as it liked.
As Seven was the individual learning to stand his ground and prove his resourcefulness, eight is the individual bowing
to limitations. Rather than defying them, he finds creative ways to get the most out of such rules. The hope being
that not only will he learn from such restrictions, but that they will bring out the best in him.
Eight of Wands: Decisive Action

The Wheet of Wands calls for a positive act of will; step forward and advance along your new path toward your
goal. Be courageous; move quickly and decisively, and do not waste your time and energy on disputes with others (on
the same or other paths) or on envy of their progress. The Eighth Gate is barred by Rivalry.
Eight wands cut across the sky. When we finally put to use our human intellect to manage our energy, we find that
we can really speed things up. This isn't about "taming" the energy, but rather avoiding waste and making the best
use of it. This is our example of banking the fire so that we have more heat and light.
Another example would be knowing when to speed up on a highway and when to slow down. If we speed all the
time, we may spin out of control on curves and crash. This way we not only get where we're going but often get
there faster than those moving at top speed.
This card predicts fast developments, fast travel, things happening quickly and competently. Nothing wasted.
Whatever is going on, the querent won't need to worry about it being on time, it should arrive early. Things will get
done quickly and will develop in a speedy manner with energy to spare. This will be, in part, because they
understand how their energy works, and how to limit it so as to get the most out of it.
Eight of Cups: Renunciation

The Wheet of Cups calls for the past to be abandoned. You are entering a new phase of life, so you may have to
discard accustomed ways, leave a comfortable situation, abandon previous plans, or forget past success. Nevertheless,
this should be a happy prospect, for you are on a new path toward emotional and spiritual fulfillment. The Eighth Gate
is barred by Memory.
A man leaves behind eight cups to follow the moon. There are two views on this card. Some view it as a kind of
"morning after." In this interpretation, the querent has been indulging, possibly for a while, in luxuries, drink, etc.
Or, at least, indulging in what seemed important to him. Now he has "sobered up" and realized that he wasted his
feelings on something or someone who, like cheap wine, wasn't worth it. Like the Lion, he leaves the wild where he
roamed free, and seeks the Maiden (the Moon) where there he may not feel so freely, but will gain more from those
feelings.
This can be taken literally as a card about the querent sobering up from binge drinking or a wild relationship and
realizing that it brought him down, made him seem uncivilized and brutal. Now he wants to do better.
The other view of his card is similar, but less harsh. The querent may genuinely care for these familiar cups (things
or people) whether or not they lived up to expectations. A crazy new dream, however, is calling to him, maybe has
been calling for a while. His instincts are to follow the dream. But good idea or not (an inverted card might suggest
that it's a bad idea or an illusion), he'll need fortitude to do this. It is easy to give your emotions freely to what is
known, harder to give them to what is unknown. Yet the unknown is what will likely raise you up to a new level.
In both instances, the card tells the querent that whatever they've been investing their emotions in, it has brought
them down, made them less of a human being than they want to be. They need to give their feeling to that that
which will en-noble them. This something will not be found in any familiar places. They must have the fortitude to
search for it elsewhere.
This can be a card of separation or divorce, or perhaps a spiritual calling. It could also imply a literal move or trip,
especially from an established home to a new, unknown one in an unknown land.
Eight of Swords: Accepting Limitations

The Wheet of Swords indicates that you are intellectually a novice on your new path. You may be held back by
confusion, limited knowledge, criticism, indecision or lack of confidence. Before you can tread your new path to
freedom, you must acknowledge your ignorance, recognize your blind spots, accept past errors and have faith in
yourself. The Eighth Gate is barred by Delusion.
A woman is tied and blindfolded within a cage of swords. This is the "damned if you do, damned if you don't," card.
The querent is in a situation where they're afraid to move. If they move, they'll get cut. However, the ropes that bind
them, the blindfold over their eyes, are their own fears, keeping them still, immobile. And so the longer they stay, the
more they constrain and entrap themselves.
Although the limitation of the eights are meant to transform, there are negatives and drawbacks to this. The Eight of
Swords is exactly that. It is what happens when you try to put limitations on words or thought. The motivation
behind this may be lofty, to not hurt feelings or keep thoughts on divine rather than base matters. But what ends up
happening is that either literally (with censorship) or figuratively the querent ends up feeling like they can't say or
think anything.
This is a card about second-guessing every word, maybe even worrying about your own thoughts and what they say
about you. In real world terms this could indicate extremes of social or legal censorship, fears of being cut down for
offending a person or group, fears of being cut down for disagreeing.
This card can also indicate your fears of what others might be saying about you. Fears of gossip, criticism, insults.
Fortitude is the only way to transcend this deadly mix of external and internal limitations. Like the Maiden taking
the chance of getting mauled by the Lion, the querent must be prepared to enduring pain and disapproval otherwise
they will remain trapped and silenced.
Thus, the card urges you to have the courage to speak up or face down what's being said about you. To move and try
to get past the swords. The longer you stay mute and still, the worse it will get.
Eight of Pentacles: Apprenticeship

Having resolved the uncertainties of the Sept of Pentacles, the Wheet finds you embarked in a new project of real
significance. However, you are a novice in this endeavor, and humility, discipline and a willingness to learn will be
necessary to acquire the required skill to accomplish your ends. Don't let impatience, laziness or vanity drive you
back to the comfort of your past accomplishments. The Eighth Gate is barred by Inertia.
An apprentice or craftsman works on the last of eight pentacles that he has created, the other hanging completed. To
understand this card, we might well go all the way back to the Three of Pentacles and the story that developed from
there. We saw the craftsman gaining patronage, which led to an abundance of funds to hold tight to in Four of
Pentacles. Alas, the craftsman lost it all in Five of Pentacles, but generosity saved him in the Six of Pentacles. In the
seven/pents he stood his ground, waiting and watching for a fresh opportunity.
Now that opportunity has come in the Eight of Pentacles. This card could, in fact, indicate a new job or new
training. A new investment or new workout program. In some interpretations, the querent might be at a lower level
than he was, going through an apprenticeship. This might be a little demoralizing, but there is still gratitude for the
employment. Either way, there are clearly no patrons this time to finance him; he is working hard to prove something
to himself and his new employer, not to impress rich backers.
Seeing it from another angle, it is working out at a local gym rather than at a expensive fitness center, and working
out for your own good not in hopes of impressing anyone. This card is about diligence and limiting your work to a
particular project. It is doing your best not to show off what you can do or in the hopes of something more (as in the
three/pents for patronage), but because you want to take pride in your work.
To this end, whether learning this skill or already a master at it, the querent will (or should) pay attention to details,
research, train, and do whatever else is needed to feel that their work goes above and beyond. Even if no one else
notices, they will know that they have taken themselves to a higher level.
NINES/NEUFS
Genesis
The Ennead terminates the elementary number series, for the Decad is a new Monad and a new beginning. Thus
the Pythagoreans call the Ennead "Limitation," "Final Limit" and "Unsurpassable Limit," for it is the end of the
process which gives specific characters to numbers, and after 9 their characters repeat: 1+0 = 1, 1+1 = 2, etc. The
Ennead also shows the character of numbers by casting out nines. Thus the Decad is a return to the Monad (10: 1 +
0 = 1), and a higher order repetition of the characters (11: 1 + 1 = 2; 12: 1 + 2 = 3, etc.).
The Decad, however, since it is beyond the Ennead, is called Unlimited and Infinite. The Pythagoreans say: The
First Monad reaches its goal in the Triad (1, 2, 3), the First Perfection; thus Initial Unity achieves First Completion.
The Tetrad reaches its goal in the Hexad (4, 5, 6), the Second Perfection; thus Well-rounded Stability achieves
Harmony. The Second Monad reaches its goal in the Ennead (7, 8, 9), the Third Perfection; thus Hidden Unity
achieves Second Completion. After the Third Perfection comes Final Unity (10), which is unbounded.
Likewise they call the Ennead "Oceanus" and "Horizon," for these two things encircle the world and contain
everything inside themselves; and they call it the Heavenly Sphere because that sphere, the Ninth, surrounds the
planets, the stars, and the earth. And they call it Hyperion because it exceeds (hyper-) all other elementary numbers.
The Pythagoreans also call the Ennead "Sun" (Halios) because it gathers (halizein) the numbers around itself, as the
Sun causes the planets to circle it; and they call it Concord or Lack of Strife because in so gathering the numbers it
makes them play in concert.
The Ennead is also called "That which Brings Completion," Fulfillment, Attainment, Incorruptible, Perfection and
even Thrice Perfect, because the Triad is perfect and the Ennead is the Triple Triad. The Ennead is the Earthly
Paradise.
But the Ennead is also called Near Perfect, Failure and Shortcoming because it falls short of its perfection in the
Decad.
The Ennead combines Order with Crisis (9 = 4 + 5). This combination is unstable; either it will be completed and
consolidated in the Decad (5 + 5), or it must decay to lower stabilities (4 + 4, 3 + 3, 2 + 2). Thus the Pythagoreans
call the Ennead the Finishing Post, for it is the Goal and Turning Point of Advancement; either the test will be
passed and progress will continue to fulfillment in the Decad, or it will not be passed, and there will be a return to
lower levels.
The Pythagoreans call the Ennead "Hera, Sister-Consort of Zeus," because it stands opposite the Monad (Zeus) and
balances it, and because the Decad comprises Zeus and Hera (10 = 1 + 9).
In summary, the Ennead manifests great strength, but also contains the seeds of its own defeat. Though it is on the
threshold of the Decad, if it does not meet the challenge, it must return to a lower stage.
Nine is a number of completion (so is Ten, but we'll get to that). It is the number when everything that's been learned
or accomplished is integrated, and we can see it all as one, as the truth.
Like the Hermit, who connects to the nines, these are cards where we return to ourselves, as only we, ourselves, have
more to teach us. We look at what we've done, earned, gained, and we think about what more we might do to make
our lives (or the suit) complete. We shine a light on all we've accomplished to discover what might still be missing.
Nines are among the most powerful cards, usually granting the querent what it is they, like the Hermit, are seeking.
Nine of Wands: Master of Will

The Neuf of Wands represents a great concentration of strength, determination and discipline, which will be
needed, for the Neuf signals the final challenge before the goal is reached. At this stage, the odds are in favor of
success, but failure is also possible. The Wand will not break if it is aimed straight at the target. Aim the Blow well.
A wounded man holding a wand stands guard over the other eight wands. This is the "failure-is-not-an-option,"
card. Think of climbing flight after flight of stairs to get to the top; you finally stop, panting, and wonder "Will I ever
get to the top?" Unlike the Seven/Pents, however, there is no giving up, no going back after all you've done to get this
high. You dig deep, find some reserve of energy and keep going.
Likewise, our soldier, wounded and tired as he is, is not going to stop protecting those wands.
Thus, the energy of the wands is invested back into ourselves for that final push. Though we may not know it, this
will be our last investment, completing what we set out to create. The card predicts that the querent will get what
they seek from the wands, a career goal, leadership position, whatever they've invested their energy into making real.
They will, however, feel guarded and wary till it's done. And, like climbing flight after flight of stairs, they might be a
little paranoid at this point. They might not believe that all they've invested is about to pay off. Or, like the soldier,
they may not be willing to let someone else guard their wands even if they could use a rest.
Which means that this card often comes up for querents who are unable to delegate, worn-out mothers who won't let
anyone else, not even dad, care for their baby, directors who won't let anyone else rehearse the actors, etc. The results
of this will be seen in 10/Wands. In 9/Wands, however, the querent only needs to be assured that they do have
reserves of energy and strength for that final push. Completion of all they've worked for is right there, all they need
do is go for it!
Nine of Cups: Master of Wishes

In the realm of Cups, the Neuf represents the attainment of a pervasive contentment, grounded in both matter and
spirit, which provides the emotional foundation for further progress. However, this very pleasant state can easily
degenerate into self-indulgence, over-indulgence, foolish naivety and complaisance - the trap of the Caters (4s), but
with higher stakes. Drink deeply from the cup, but remember that a more enduring pleasure comes from a drink that
has neither an excess nor deficiency of spirits. Handle the full Cup carefully.
An innkeeper sits before nine cups set out for guests. This is considered one of the best cards of the minors, the
"wish" card. Keep in mind, however, that this card is not Aladdin's magic lantern granting you that new car or
winning lottery number. It is about our wish for emotional fulfillment.
In some mystical systems it's thought that what you put out will return back to you threefold. Or, as Shakespeare put
it, the more love you give to others, the more you have, for "both are infinite." (Romeo & Juliet, II,ii). This is
something of the meaning of this card. The more love and good emotions that you put out into the universe, the
more come back to you until you have a feast of good wishes. Think of it like walking into an inn and finding that
the innkeeper has already filled his chalices with the best wine for you and your friends.
The reader can predict for the querent satisfaction in family, friends and relationships, joy and camaraderie. They
will feel creative and happy. In addition, this card could be a prediction of a great dinner, an amazing party or just a
wonderful night at the local pub.
Nine of Swords: Master of Words

The Neuf of Swords signals that you have become a expert at analysis and argument, able to wield your razor-sharp
intellect to defeat any opponent - the proverbial two-edged sword. One danger is a descent into sophistry, or even
into dishonesty. Another danger is that your weapon will be wielded without compassion, and thus become a tool of
cruelty and malice, and a source of anxiety, sorrow, despair and fear for others - and ultimately for yourself, for
indiscriminate cutting stains the blade with cynicism. Beware the well-honed Edge.
A woman wakes from a nightmare, nine swords on the wall. It can be a good thing to find what you seek, except
when it comes to ideas, words or problems. Find too many of them and they will overwhelm you especially, as with
all the nines, you focus them on yourself.
We all know this card, it is the one where we wake up at night and go over our troubles, problems, worries, thoughts,
our failings, problems we haven't yet solved, ideas that went wrong, things we should not have said that we did. The
querent is at the height of their anxiety, far too focused and far too critical of themselves. There is a positive aspect,
however, to this waking from nightmares, which is that the querent may be seeing things out of proportion. If they
"wake-up," as this card suggests they can or will, they might see that things aren't so bad or unmanageable.
This card could also be literal in predicting insomnia, or far too many sleepless nights alone and awake going over
and over whatever worry or problem is gnawing at you. The querent's life may seem like a bad dream to them, one
they wish they could wake up from. One thing is sure, however, this despair and anxiety only makes the situation
worse, and offers no solutions. The querent must find a way to get out of their heads.
Nine of Pentacles: Master of Wealth

The Neuf of Pentacles represents well-earned rewards and satisfaction for significant accomplishment - not excessive
pride, but a realistic appreciation for one's own worth. However, at the level of the Neufs, one's triumph may be
lonely, for comparatively few people will recognize your accomplishment or understand your pleasure in it. The
dangers are that lack of support from others may undermine your accomplishment and lead to its collapse, or that
your satisfaction may become narcissistic. Though your coin is valuable to you, will others accept it? Know the worth of
your coin.
A woman walks among nine "blossoming" pentacles while delighting in a bird that has alighted on her hand. Like
the Hermit, the woman here has retreated from the world, but unlike him it is into a private garden of beauty and
pleasure. This is a card about being able to spend money on yourself, work for yourself, etc. What the pentacle suit
seeks--health, luck, money, solid work-is achieved in this card. It is important to understand, however, that it is
achieved on an intimate rather than grand scale, one of comfort for the self, not opulence that extends beyond the
self.
This is not obscene wealth for yachts and mansions, but rather money enough for a cozy home in the right
neighborhood or a small sailboat to take out on weekends. Health-wise, you may not be in shape for the Olympics,
but you look good and feel good.
This card can signify a lucky windfall or payment for work well done. It could indicate a healthy bank account or
making a final payment on something and knowing that you own it outright. It can also indicate a retreat to a spa or
one of those beautiful bed & breakfast inns where you're pampered and waited on hand and foot. It might, as well,
indicate finally getting your own office at work, or a job position that suits you.
Or, perhaps, it is just being able to afford an apartment where you can live on your own. This card may predict only
a very small paradise, but it will be private and it will be all yours.
TENS/DIXES
Genesis
The Decad changes a multiplicity into a higher-order unity, for when the Monad has reached the Decad it has
circled back to itself and encompassed all the elementary numbers. The Decad is thus the limit and the perimeter of
the infinity of numbers, and they turn around it, so the Pythagoreans call it the Sun. Since the Decad has within
itself the characters of all the numbers, all things in heaven and earth are measured by the Decad and it organizes all
things. The Pythagoreans call it the "All-embracing, All-limiting Mother" and say that it is the principle of natural
equilibrium and wholeness.
So also the Pythagoreans call the Decad "Universe" because it arranges all things; "Heaven" because it contains all
things; "All" because it is greater than all numbers and all numbers return to it; "Fate" because it is the source and
boundary of the elementary numbers, and generates in order those beyond itself; "Eternity" because it encompasses
whatever happens and is everlasting; and "Power" because it controls all the other numbers and strengthens
everything. It is the Number of the Cosmos and the Foundation of Creation.
They also call the Decad "All-fulfiller" because it brings all things to fulfillment, carrying them to their natural ends;
it finishes tasks of all kinds. Therefore the Achaeans laid siege to Troy for nine years, and it fell in the tenth; so also
Odysseus wandered for nine years and returned in the tenth. The Decad comprises the Monad and the Ennead,
which are the center and circumference of the Circle, which represents Well-rounded Wholeness.
The Holy Tetraktys (1 + 2 + 3 + 4 = 10) symbolizes the All-embracing Decad, for the Monad is the font of
existence; the Dyad is the principle of division, which creates all forms; the Triad is the threefold activity of the
psyche; and the Tetrad is the fourfold nature of matter. The Tetraktys is equal on every side, balanced around its
center, and symmetric in all six directions; it shows the perfection of the Decad in its one center, three sides and six
directions (10 = 1 + 3 + 6).
The Pythagoreans also call the Decad "Necessity" because it corresponds to the outermost rim of the heavens, the
Prime Mover which drives the inner spheres, and so also the Decad encompasses all things, causing them to change
by mixing and separating the elements. They also call it "Atlas" for, as He holds the pillars of the heavens, so the
Decad is the Cosmic Spindle that holds together the heavenly spheres and turns them in their places.
The Decad is a return to the Monad which brings with it the history of the intervening numbers, and so it is called
"Memory" and named after the Muse Mnemosyne, for memory carries into the past the present, which incorporates
all that has happened since. It is the Platonic Anamnesis (Recollection), the return to primordial wholeness, but
consciously, for the Monad was unconsciously integral whereas the Decad integrates the characters of the other
numbers.
The Decad is the Lapis Philosophorum (Philosophers' Stone), the beginning and end of the alchemical process. As such
it is called Elixer Vitae (Elixer of Life) and Filius Philosophorum (Son of the Philosophers). It is called Hermaphroditus
because it balances the female, which is even, with the male, which is odd (10 = 2 X 5).
Indeed, the Pythagoreans say the Decad is Perfection because it brings about balance, for it is the first number to
balance the primes (1, 2, 3, 5, 7) and the composites (4, 6, 8, 9, 10). It therefore represents the first stage at which
complete balance is achieved, and it incorporates the harmonies of all the preceding numbers. It is a symbol of
concord, love, peace and the Pythagoreans call it Trust.
In summary, the Decad is the perfect realization of the preceding numbers, and reintegrates the progression into a
new and more refined whole, which is perfect in its balance and internal harmony. It becomes the prime mover,
organizing all change and bringing it to its fulfillment according to necessity.
As the aces were the pure, elemental spark of the suit, the tens are the element of the suit complete, both physical
and spiritual.
These cards are about what completes that turn of the wheel, getting it back to "1" and yet carrying with it all that it
has experienced through those other numbers on its way round the circle.
Ten of Wands: Resurgence of Spirit

Having met the challenge of the Neuf of Wands, the goal is in hand: a triumph of will and spirit, which is, however,
a mixed blessing. It may easily lead to overconfidence and a proclivity to reach beyond your abilities, including a
tendency to accept too many challenges. Or you may tend to impose your will on others, even through with the best
of intentions.
The unconscious force of the Ace of Wands has been replaced by the conscious force of the Dix. It is now a potent
instrument that must be used circumspectly, or it will become self-defeating, and the Dix will be no better than the
Ace. Mastery of Will and Spirit.
A man carries ten heavy wands, trying to keep them together, bowed over by their weight. The image on this card
implies that the Querent has complete control of all the many things he wanted control over. He is the leader, the
boss. But this means that all the burdens are his as well.
The qualities of Wands--passions, temper, creativity, energy, spirit, ambition-need some restrictions, as in the eight of
wands, to make them faster and more efficient. When they become too restricted, however, or given so many tasks
that the energy is parceled out into many portions, then nothing can thrive. All the energy can do, at best, is
maintain itself.
We often see this in life. Someone comes up with a great idea and starts a movement. The movement has energy,
drive and creativity. It grows and thrives. Then it becomes hugely popular, which we might think is a good thing, but
turns out to be the ruin of it. It gets weighed down by bureaucracy, rules, legalities. Likewise with a small business
that gets too corporate, or a family where mom, dad and kids sign themselves up for too many activities. All energy
goes into maintaining a status quo rather than allowing or fostering change and innovation.
This, alas, is where Wands comes to if it goes all the way around to that final turn. The message of the card is rather
like that old saying, "it used to be about the music!" Too much success or achievement can make you lose sight of
your passion for something. Especially if that success requires you to manage a cumbersome music empire rather
than just playing the music.
When this card shows up, it's time to let the querent know that they're weighed down by too many responsibilities.
This is the Nine of Pentacles plus one. They've not only weighed down their body, but their spirit. They need to scale
back or delegate authority. Most of all, they need to remember why they wanted to do this in the first place. They
need to rediscover their passion for the thing rather than be burdened by it.
Ten of Cups: Resurgence of Feeling

The Dix of Cups achieves the promise of the Ace: emotional fulfillment, harmonious relationship, ongoing
commitment, joy and wonder, love that integrates all the elements of psyche and body. It is a wise relationship, and
so more enduring. Nevertheless, the Decad is a return to the Monad, so the Dix of Cups should not be viewed as an
end, but as a new beginning, a conscious striving, based on experience, for relationship and feeling. Mastery of Love
and Relationship.
A family delights in a rainbow of cups. This card indicates that the querent has risen above petty emotions, like
anger or resentment, to mature emotions. Meaning that they are able to feel what others feel, and know how to
respond to them and create an emotional connection. This, in turn, allows them to create the sort of family,
friendships and neighborhoods we all dream of having. Ones that know how to offer emotional support,
understanding and comfort.
Thus, the card predicts that the querent has the instincts, control and maturity to get out of emotional difficulties
and misunderstanding; they know how to restore emotional harmony between family members, friends and
neighbors. As advice, it urges the querent to be empathetic, also to smile, be kind, be warm, be emotionally
generous, and to trust their emotional wisdom.
It also predicts good times with those we love-reunions, holidays, special occasions. If any such are coming up, the
querent can be told that they'll go better than expected.
As for relationships, the querent can be told to remember the love that brought the them and their partner together
and ought to be holding them together still. Put aside the disagreements over money or work or politics and delight
in the rainbow.
Ten of Swords: Resurgence of Intellect

The Dix of Swords indicates a proper and satisfactory conclusion to intellectual, confrontational or divisive
situations. In the best of cases this will be a consequence of courageous striving and in the service of noble goals.
However, if there is not enough courage to maintain intellectual independence, or if intellectual vanity is allowed to
grow, the result will most likely be defeat, ruin, jealousy and sorrow. In the best of cases the Dix is a return to the
intellectual excitement of the Ace, but with the added understanding and broadened perspective acquired through
the other numbers. Mastery of Strife and Division.
(N.B.: I think the Pythagorean interpretation of the Decad requires a more positive reading of the Dix of Swords
than is usual.)
A man dead with ten swords in his back. There are cards in the tarot that can scare querents and this is one of those.
Readers should remind their sitters, however, that Swords refer to the mind and communication, not murder.
When, like the Wheel, thoughts come back around to the top carrying with them all past discussions, arguments,
analysis and attempts to solve problems, they also come to an end. There is no more left to know about the subject or
say about it. Dramatic and frightening as this image is, it essentially says that any path your mind could go down has
been gone down; any discussion you could have on this topic has been discussed.
Of course, the image doesn't just portray a death, but a murder and a brutal one at that. Stabbed in the back. The
words and thoughts of others can stab you in the back, murdering your theory, idea, reputation. Any of these may be
the victim portrayed in this image, but there is a positive. The worst has been done. And new theories, ideas and
even reputations can be found.
When the querent gets this card the advice is that it is time to end whatever has been on their mind, or whatever
issue they've been arguing or discussing. They have gone as far as they can with these thoughts or argument. Even if
they could argue more or differently, everyone is tried of listening to them. It is also likely that dwelling on this issue
has left the querent's mind weary, dull, dead. It is time for a new topic that will enliven the mind rather than keeping
it pinned to the ground.
Ten of Pentacles: Resurgence of Accomplishment

A permanent pattern of success has been established in the material realms. This is the accomplishment of the
master, and can only be learned at the feet of a master. The Dix of Pentacles may indicate that one has amassed a
treasure - of resources or skills - that can be passed on, or it may indicate that one has or will be granted such a
treasure from the past. Such a treasure may be squandered, however, if not managed wisely. Mastery of Skill and
Success.
A man, woman and child are stepping through the portal to the grounds of a castle. Outside sits an elder in rich
robes patterned with grapes, petting one of two dogs. The old man, it appears, is passing on his wealth to the next
generation-the man and woman-and, though them, to the generation after that in the form of the child. Thus we see
both the mundane use of the Pents (a beautiful home) and the spiritual use (providing for others).
Crowley calls this card "The Lord of Wealth." This is a card about having an abundance of something, so much so
that you view it differently than when it was a rarity. Note how the elder sits outside while the couple and child are
on their way in. The castle is nothing new or special to him. He values, instead, his time outdoors with the dogs, and
takes enjoyment from how the castle delights the young couple and the child. The elder is also the living version of
the castle, as rich and regal, and the card seeks to remind the viewer that as there is value in the grand old castle, so
there is value in the grand old man. In meaning, this card is about a pinnacle in prosperity: a family home bought
and paid for, a business that can be passed onto one's children. It can indicate someone's retirement, dealings with
elderly relatives, genealogy, or inheritances-large or small. It can be about antiques and other old, valued things
passed down through the generations.
On a simpler level, the card can indicate passing things on, like removing all those old clothes cluttering up the closet
and giving them to the homeless, surrendering that collection of stuffed animals to a children's hospital or clearing
out books from the overflowing bookshelves and handing them over to a local library. Though similar to the Six of
Pentacles, this is not so much about generosity as it is about using your abundance (wealth) to leave a legacy. "You
have too much to enjoy," the card says. "Give it to those who can enjoy it." This could also indicate volunteer work if
you find yourself with too much time on your hands.
The Ten of Pentacles is the Nine of Pentacles plus one. In the Nine of Pentacles you had enough to indulge yourself.
In the Ten of Pentacles you have enough to indulge others, and so you complete the suit spiritually as well as
physically.
COURT CARDS
It is generally agreed by readers that courts are the most troublesome cards in the deck. They are difficult to read for
a variety of reasons. For example, the "Magician" indicates the figure's profession. But a "Knight" is not so specific in
what he does, and there are four of them. Do they all do the same thing? In addition, Courts can be difficult to read
in the context of a spread. If you get the Queen of Cups in the "Health" position in a spread, what does that mean?
(How would I read this? Alternative medicine, likely dispensed by a new, female healer that the querent is going to or
should go to).
Court cards, however, can be very useful. They are among the best cards to signify people in the querent's life, or the
querent him/herself. And once you get to know the significance of their positions better, they can quite clear in
meaning no matter the position.
Let us try to demystify the court cards.
Rider-Waite style the courts are Pages, Knights, Queens, Kings. Crowley style the courts are Princesses, Princes,
Queens, Knights. There are pros and cons to each. We, however, will be discussing the Rider-Waite's court system.
Ways to make reading Court Cards easier:
1) Court cards frequently indicate people, someone in the querent's life (past or present), or someone about to
come into the querent's life or the querent, themselves. So when a court card appears, consider whether it might
represent the querent or someone the querent knows.
Gender usually goes along with the cards, but doesn't have to. Sometimes a woman will find herself the "King/
Pentacles" in a relationship with the man as the "Queen/Wands." Meaning that she is concerned with managing the
home, job and finances while he is interested in passion and romance. Typically, however, Kings represent adult
males, Queens adult females, Knights youths of either gender, Pages children of either gender.
Sometimes a Court will appeal so strongly to the querent that it will become their card representing them at all
times. It doesn't matter if it matches their birth sign (see #3) or not. If they feel that they are the Queen/Wands then
that is what they are. It is less about having the sun sign of Leo than it is about being a dramatic, passionate, artistic
woman.
Most times, however, the Court representing the querent or others will change. They may be a Knight/Pents (male
or female) at work, but a King/Wands (male or female) at home. If the question being asked is about how they are in
a relationship, they may get the Knight/Cups as representing them, whereas if the question is about career, they may
get the Queen/Swords. This tells them what matters to them in this situation, and why it may or may not be giving
them difficulties.
2) Court Cards have particular, symbolic meanings. If it seems clear that the Court Card is not a person,
then the reader might consider the most common, symbolic meanings of the Court Cards. Pages, for example, can
indicate "messages," Knights "movement" or a "trips" (as they ride on horseback). Queens are "creators" like the
Empress, building the nest of that suit, and Kings are "managers" like the Emperor, organizing and directing the
suit.
3) Zodiac symbols (designations) can often help decipher Court Cards. Most deck creators assign the Kings,
Queens and Knights a sign of the Zodiac. Wands are usually the Fire signs, Cups the Water signs, Swords the Air
signs, and Pentacles the Earth signs. However, which card is which Zodiac symbol can differ from deck to deck. So
examine images carefully to see which card is which Zodiac sign in your particular deck. The pentacle court card
that has a bull in it (for example) is undoubtedly Taurus, whether it is King, Queen or Knight.
You can, of course, ignore such emblems and make your own assignments if you like. If you feel that the Queen/
Swords is an Aquarius, then she is an Aquarius and it doesn't matter if the deck creator has given her Libra's scales
or if another reader has her as Gemini. Whatever works for you is fine. However, it will cause problems if you insist
that the Queen/Swords must be a Virgo as now you've a Pentacle Court card with no Zodiac sign, and an Air Sign
with no Court Card!
Keep the suits in line with their elements and Zodiac (Wands to Fire [Air] signs, Cups to Water signs, Swords to Air
[Fire] signs, Pents to Earth signs). This will avoid confusion. The job of Zodiac signs is to help find out who the card
might represent. So if you get a Queen/Cups, you might ask the querent, "Do you know a Scorpio?" and that might
help you discover who the Queen/Cups represents in the spread.
What the Zodiac is not intended to do is limit the Courts. Meaning that if your querent, a Leo, feels like a Queen/
Swords, then there is no reason to insist that she can't be represented by that card. We are more than just our Sun
Signs. Which is why we can be represented by a Knight/Pents in a spread even if we're not a Virgo.
The Zodiac signs are, in short, simply a way of narrowing down who the card might represent when it's not
otherwise clear.
PAGES
The Page is filled with Earthy Energy,
an Egotistic child that's newly born or reborn, and rejects a life outworn.
With care it will fulfill its destiny.
General
The Pueri correspond to the element Earth, in which the Dry quality (Siccus) dominates the Cold quality (Frigidus).
According to Aristotle, Dryness is the quality that gives form to things; therefore it is the principle of solidity, and the
Pueri are characterized by the materialization or crystallization of the energy of the suit. We may say they represent
solidified energy. Since the Dry imposes its form on other things, it is associated with willfulness.
Earth's recessive quality is Coldness, which Aristotle says is the principle of mixing and association (for Heat causes
things to dissociate, as in the alchemist's retort). Therefore, the Hot quality is discriminating, whereas the Cold is
undiscriminating; whereas the Hot is expansive (outward directed), the Cold is contractive (inward directed).
The Page (Dry>Cold) inherits the recessive quality of the King (Hot>Dry) and the dominant quality of the Queen
(Cold>Wet), thus the Puer may be called the Kore (Maiden) and the Princess (though each rank may manifest in
either sex). In the Page, however, the formed material (Dry) quality of the King is dominant over the stabilizing
(Cold) quality of the Queen, and so the Page is less steadfast than the Queen.
In summary, the qualities of Earth show the Pueri to be materializations of the suit's energy, tending to manifest this
energy in a willful, undiscriminating and self-centered way.
More generally, the Puer is the turning point between descent of the suit's energy and its ascent to greater
refinement. Thus the Puer is simultaneously the completion of the materialization process (IOVE), and the fragile
rebirth of spiritualization (EVOI). The Puer is the innocent child, whose existence is made possible by the higher
ranks, and who will in turn regenerate the higher ranks, if only the child be sufficiently protected and nurtured.
Delicate shoots are easily damaged. The Page holds the powers of the higher ranks as potential energy, and with care
this energy will blossom into its dynamic form, and ascend the ranks.
Key Words
Eros (Love), Eris (Strife), Earth, Eventum, Effect, Energy, Entirety, End, Emergence, Egotism, Enthusiasm,
Enjoyment.
The first court cards are the Pages (also known as Princesses). It is always best to imagine them as young, and with a
letter or scroll in hand. The element of the pages is "Earth" indicating something young, growing, a seed planted. So
the Page of Wands would be "Earth of Fire" - the seed of fire, so to speak. Pages most often stand for children,
though they can also be said to be the "Fool's" alter ego, meaning that they are very new to their "element," a student
or apprentice.
Thus, when no children seem to be involved (the person you're reading for is childless, has no friends with kids, etc.),
then the Pages can indicate that the querent is about to receive a message, or that the querent's (or someone in the
querent's life) is at a new stage. They feel new and excited about it, but also are likely to make mistakes. They are
immature.
Page of Wands: Emerging Inspiration

As a Message: Wands often signify travel as well as passion, religion, temper and career. This card can signify a
message from far away about a trip, career move, leadership position or something spiritual or philosophical.
As Time and Environment: This card can relate to a time of new learning, new discoveries, new inventions.
There is child-like excitement and energy to get things started.
As a Child or "Child-like" Person: The Page of Wands is the sort of child (or child-like adult) who is full of
energy. Manic, we might call him/her. They always want to go outside and play and are always getting into strange
places, climbing trees, wanting to go to distant places, like to amusement parks or on camping trips. He/she is never
home for dinner on time, and can be frustrating. However, he/she is also so charismatic and optimistic that they're
often forgiven. He/she is but happy, fun-loving, enjoys being the center of attention and the leader.
Warn the querent, however, that being "immature" this person might tend to bully others or throw temper tantrums.
Page of Cups: Emerging Openness

As a Message: Usually the Page of Cups signifies a message of family matters or a matter of the heart. It might be
an artistic message, a story or poem, or a message confessing deep feelings.
As Time and Environment: This is a time of fresh emotions, feeling them purely and wondering at them.
Romance is at the stage of puppy love and crushes.
As a Child or "Child-like" Person: This is the daydreamer, head in the clouds, rarely paying attention. Which
makes it difficult to get them to focus on homework or chores.
The Page of Cups has got a great imagination, an artistic bent, and a love of story-telling which is both wonderful,
but problematic, as they may let their imaginations run away with them. They will believe that there are elves in the
garden and monsters under the bed. Adult-wise, they may not be taken serious as they're viewed as too "airy-fairy."
Very kind and sweet, they'll bring you fresh picked flower, make you a card, write you a song; they'll try to rescue sick
birds or abandoned kittens, and take very seriously the death of a goldfish. When sad, they're the saddest kid you
ever saw. When happy, they're positively blissful.
Warn the querent, however, that being "immature" this person will be overly sensitive. One has to be clear with them
or they will misunderstand, but one also has to be prepared for very emotional reactions.
Page of Swords: Emerging Understanding

As a Message: Page of Swords signals messages relating to information or problems. It is sometimes about illness
and often rumor or gossip. When the querent gets the Page of Swords, they should be warned to check it out. They
should not pass on the message until they're sure it's true. Swords are words and thoughts, and neither may have any
validity behind them.
As Time and Environment: This is a time of new ideas and thoughts. They not only seem new, but unique,
special, and there is a great deal of chatter, talk, and discussion. It may not be very mature, but it is rapid and
developing fast.
As a Child or "Child-like" Person: You can't shut up the Page of Swords. They want to know everything, be
told everything, and, even more alarming, anything they hear, they'll repeat. This is the child that will go up to Aunt
Hazel and say, "Are you carrying a baby? Mommy says it looks like you are...." This card could warn the querent
that they or someone else might blurts out something they heard that they shouldn't be blurting.
On the positive side, this child or child-like person could be quite a prodigy, good at puzzles, quick to learn. The card
can signal absorbing new information quickly, or solving problems fast, also using a computer.
Warn the querent, however, that being "immature" this person will be prone to argue. Not only is there a risk of this
Page/Swords being a tattletale, but they tend to think they know-it-all when they don't. This can be a card about
boasting, gossip and lying, either knowingly or unknowingly.
Page of Pentacles: Energy of the Earth

As a Message: Messages about money, a good, unexpected turn in health, a lucky happenstance or work.
As Time and Environment: This Page's element of Earth works in favor of this time. There is new growth,
steady development. Everything from the economy to the body seem youthful and healthy.
As a Child or "Child-like" Person: The Page of Pentacles is a hands-on sort of child or child-like adult. They
enjoy hammering together birdhouses, helping build a tree house, cooking, cleaning. If a child-like adult, they likely
want to fix things around the house be it a leaky faucet or creaky floorboards. They are into home repair and/or
handmade gifts.
They are also industrious when it comes chores, taking on extra in order to earn extra money. They'll water lawns,
walk pets. They're very frugal with that money, keeping it in the piggy bank and counting it out often to see how
much they've got. Similarly, they're very health conscious, seeing exercise not as a competition (as a Page of Wands
might) but as self-improvement. They're more interested in beating their own record rather than someone else's.
As a child, they may seem too serious and adult-like. As an adult, they may seem to be stuck doing more "child-like"
work, like being a dog-walker, rather than employed in a more adult job.
Though they can be generous and good hearted, the querent should be warned that being "immature" this person
will rarely do anything for free, not if they can get someone to pay them to do it. Meaning if the querent goes out on
a date with this child-like person, they'll be eating somewhere cheap or going Dutch. There is an element of "what's
in it for me?" in the Page of Pentacles.
KNIGHTS
The Knight, obeying orders, Undertakes
a Venture, going forth, by duty bound,
with Vital strength for which he is renowned.
By wedding word and deed, the youth awakes.
General
The Knight (Wet>Hot) inherits the dominant quality of the King (Hot>Dry) and recessive quality of the Queen
(Cold>Wet), thus the Eques may be called the Koros (Lad) and the Prince (though each rank may manifest in either
sex). In the Knight, however, the form receiving (Wet, Humidus) quality of the Queen is dominant over the motivating
(Hot, Calidus) quality of the King, and so the Knight is less swift to act than the King. The lack of the will power
(Dryness) of the King also contributes to this. Knights lack the Cold quality of the Queen, and so are deficient,
compared to her, in their ability to preserve form, i.e. in steadfastness and endurance, and in their contractiveness,
i.e., inward focus and quietness.
The Eques is assistant to the Rex and Regina, and is nominally their offspring. In this role the Eques is actionoriented, and tends to be less bound by social responsibility than the Rex and less experienced than the Regina.
The Pages and Knights are immature and dominated by passive (i.e., spontaneous, reactive, undisciplined) qualities
(Dry or Wet). For the Page it is willfulness (Dry), which combines with lack of discrimination (Cold) in the Earth
element. In the Knight, obedience (Wet) has become dominant, which combines with discrimination (Hot) in the Air
element. Thus Knights are the perfect executers of their parents' wishes, though they may err through blind
obedience or excessive zeal.
The Knights are adolescents (in the characters of their Suits), as shown by the incorporation of the Wet quality,
which is relational, for it permits them to conform to others and establish social bonds, including sexual relationships.
This Wetness can also lead to the excessive conformity common in adolescence. (Contrast this with the Dry,
egocentric quality of the prepubescent Pages). However, the Hot quality makes adolescent Knights increasingly
discriminating in their relationships, though the basis of the discrimination may be the Wet qualities of conformity
and the desire for approval.
Key Words
Venus, Vulcan, Vapor, Vector, Volition, Voluntary, Venture, Virgin, Virile, Vigor, Vitality, Volatile, Union,
Unification, Undertaking, Understanding, Uterus.
Knights or princes are the spirit of the teenager, all about changes, movement, action. Knights are never still; as the
pages/princesses suggest messages, the knights suggest travel and spreading what they know. They are also, as
Knights, about engaging in battle.
Elementally, they are Air moving and flowing. As a person, they're likely to stand for a young adult or someone who
acts very like a teen. Their beliefs are purer than of an adult, less cynical, more fierce. And like their element, they
are prone to argue and fight for what they believe. In this they are most knight like: powerfully, almost unquestioning
loyal to a kingdom or cause.
Knight of Wands: Vitality of Impulse

As Travel: An exciting trip, and likely a long one to an exotic place by motorcycle, car, bus or train.
As Change and Movement: Like the teen years, Knights are about maturing, changes, movement and the Knight
of Wands would suggest things switching, moving, or changing rapidly. Energy, in particular, might go up or down
dramatically. In the negative, there is a fighting atmosphere to this Knight, the time or environment may be electric
with an almost sports-like desire to do battle, even when it might not be wise to do so. Changes won't be frightening,
but they may seem wild and unexpected.
As a Teen or "Teen-like" Person: The Knight of Wands is the "tilting at windmills" Knight. The kind of youth
who always goes for grand, dramatic gestures. This is the restless teen or teen-like adult who loves his car and seems
to live in it, driving everywhere, picking up his friends as he goes. And there is usually no telling where he'll drive to
or end up.
He's popular, the center of attention, the leader who comes up with crazy ideas. He'll be voted class president or
Prom King, and is likely an aggressive player on the football team, but don't expect him to be all that serious or
serious minded. He's at an age where he wants to have fun and party.
On the negative side, this teen can be headstrong, bossy or a bully-and a risk-taker, meaning he could do dangerous
things and convince others to do dangerous things. A little narcissistic, he's not always sensitive to others feelings.
Don't expect him to be reliable or on time, but he can be fiercely loyal to his friends, and his religion whether that is
sports, a philosophy or church.
Knight of Cups: Vitality of Openness

As Travel: Travel to lake, river or sea, or by water.
As Change and Movement: As with the Teen years, this card can indicate changes that involve emotional ups
and down. The mood in the querent's environment, with friends or family, might switch rapidly from elation to
depression, from sorrow to optimism. Especially in regards to a relationship this card can indicate a time of
emotional flux, of fights about feelings.
As a Teen or "Teen-like" Person: A knight in the truest sense, this is the knight of love, the "emo" teen: dreamy,
sensitive, moody, "deep." He plays music, spends long hours alone in his room with the shades drawn, he writes dark,
meaningful poetry. He or she will fall in love, profoundly and romantically, and believe that theirs is the most true,
the most intense and spiritual love ever.
They can, likewise, see themselves as more spiritual, artistic or "deep" than others. They have a tendency to believe
that others just "don't understand" and can't understand the power of their feelings.
The Knight of Cups should be watched for depression, which can be very real and serious. This teen or teen-like
person may be so lost in emotions that they are inclined toward suicide. They are also in danger of experimenting
with drugs and alcohol, not to have fun, but to escape from their intense feelings. Though moody, the Knight of
Cups is fiercely loyal to anyone and anything he loves, including family.
Knight of Swords: Vitality of Understanding

As Travel: Travel by air.
As Change and Movement: This is a card that indicates a time and environment of rapid changes. In the
positive, there are rapid thoughts; ideas fly, problems and challenges quickly appear and are quickly solved. In the
negative, there might be too much thinking. This is the most "Knight" of the Knights, meaning things will feel
restlessness, will change direction in a blink, or go from zero-to-sixty in a second. There will be an inclination to
argue. It could be frightening and worrying, but also mentally stimulating.
As a Teen or "Teen-like" Person: Too smart for his own good, the Knight of Swords is also too talkative. He/
she is the sort to get into a dozen flame wars on a dozen internet chat sites. This is the sort of teen/teen-like person
who will questions his teachers (bosses), likes to play devil's advocate, and argue with his friends and family just for
the sake of arguing.
Cool and logical, he can be very smart and amazing at problem-solving. This, however, can make him arrogant,
cold, even cruel to those he views as not so bright. This sharp mind and sharp tongue can also lead him to spread
gossip or nasty rumors just to see what will happen. He may be an internet troll or hacker and likely to cause serious
trouble or get into serious trouble because of it. He fails to consider the consequences of his words, and can be
uncaring about others feelings.
He is, however, a good Knight to have on your side, as he will find clever ways to win in battle. If there's anything
this knight will fight and die for, it is for freedom of information and speech.
Knight of Pentacles: Vitality of Effort

As Travel: Travel on foot, hiking, walking, cycling.
As Change and Movement: The Knight of Pentacles is the most opposite to the Air element of the Knights. This
means that he is the least Knight-like. Not inclined to move or fight. On the positive, movement and changes will feel
steady, as this Knight is very consistent. But Knights are supposed to be fast, and this Knight is plodding. It will seem
like things are moving/changing at a crawl, and that those who should defend their positions and put up a fight are
taking too long to do so.
As a Teen or "Teen-like" Person: The Knight of Pentacles has all kinds of projects going, jobs on the side, and
extra-curricular activities. He takes his work (or studies) very seriously, and is always looking ahead to the future. He
likely has, in fact, long term plans, including what he wants to be, what he wants to do, down to getting married and
having children. While this seems very positive, it can cause him problems when it comes to handling the unexpected
or improvising. If he didn't plan for it, he doesn't know what to do about it.
Similarly, this Knight is uncomfortable standing out. While he wants to have the best that money can buy, he also
wants to fit in. Thus, if every one of his peers must have a certain cell phone, he must have it as well. If he can afford
the best of these, he will buy the best. If he can't afford it, he will work at part-time jobs till he can afford it. While
this gives him an amazing work ethic, it also makes him too reliant on material things to give him status, and may
make him embarrassed if he doesn't have enough.
This teen or teen-like person needs to have his own room or secret place, and woe to anyone who goes into that
room or changes it in any way. The Knight pf Pentacles has his own organization system for everything, and a
routine for keeping healthy. Not surprisingly, this teen can be far too solitary, too concerned with perfection, or
earning a place of respect. Fear of failure or standing out may keep him from leaving his room. He needs to "lighten
up."
He values and protects beautiful things and is a loyal employee if treated right.
QUEENS
The Queen moves like the Ocean, and relates
with Others, drawing nectar from above.
She nurses life with Overflowing love,
and gathers food for growth she incubates.
General
The Queen corresponds to the element Water, in which the Cold quality dominates the Wet quality. Because of the
dominant Cold quality the Queen is characterized by mixing, joining, relating and loving (for Aristotle tells us that it
is the Hot quality that separates); Cold is also contractive, and so the Queen conserves and stores energy, so she is
characterized by steadfastness, endurance, quietness, inward focus, and hence insight.
Because of the secondary quality, Wetness, the Queen is receptive of form imposed from without; in particular, she is
receptive of the King's seed and provides its nurturing matrix. Thus she adapts to the elemental form of the suit,
rather than imposing a form on it (as does the Dry King). The Celestial Fire of the King stirs the Abyssal Waters of
the Queen and life is born in her depths.
In the King and Queen the active qualities (Hot or Cold) dominate, so the King and Queen are pre-eminently
sources of authority. Since the Knights and Pages are dominated by passive qualities (Wet or Dry) they are not a
source of authority, in spite of being willful (Dry, Pages) or judgmental (Hot, Knights).
As a consequence of her Wetness the Queen is also inclined to manifest her authority by conforming with
circumstances, rather than opposing them (which the King does, as a consequence of his Dryness). Such adaptation
is characteristic of the archetypal parent, whom the Queen represents. The conforming characteristic of Wetness is
also a source of empathy, compassion and understanding for the Queen, especially as Great Mother.
The Queen represents the parent in her suit. In the downward path IOVE she is the Object towards which the
creative Impulse is directed; she steadfastly carries the Ovum, and nurses the new creation at her Overflowing
breasts. She is Ops, the Goddess of Abundance, and in Latin Ops means the power to care for another.
In the upward path EVOI the adolescent Knight may mature into the wise parent, symbolized by the Queen, by
learning steadfastness and responsibility and thereby acquiring her quiet authority. Like the steady movement of the
calm Ocean, her progress is invisible but inexorable.
Key Words
Ops, Ocean, Object, Objectus, Objective, Opposite, Other, Openness, Open, Overflowing, Organic, Ovum.
The element of Queens is water and, not surprisingly, they are a reflection of the Empress. In this they signify the
creative force. That which nurtures, slakes thirst and helps things to grow.
When Queens appear they signal a time of growth and development, a time when the querent is making things real.
Queen of Wands: Overflowing Intuition

As a development: Developing a trip or making real a career, or creating a movement.
As an adult woman: They light up a room when they enter, radiating warmth and energy, humor and spirit. Very
often this queen is in entertainment, an actress or pop star. The Queen of Wands can also be a leader and activist.
Like other Wands, the Queen of Wands signals having charisma, drawing others to you like moths to a flame. Her
energy can certainly burn others as she is hot, passionate, and restless. On the other hand, a Queen of Wands can be
gentle; she loves children and is an enthusiastic participant in their lives: making costumes for plays, coaching teams,
etc. Which is good, but the querent should be warned that this woman might be in danger of being a soccer momtoo involved with her children's lives.
A Queen of Wands is a very creative woman with boundless energy to make, do, travel, entertain. The problem, of
course, is that this queen has trouble keeping out of the spotlight. She can overwhelm or intimidate, be bossy and
overbearing. At her best, however, she is an inspiration to family and friends, and often to admiring strangers as well.
No matter the situation, this woman will get things done and done well.
Queen of Cups: Overflowing Openness

As a development: Developing a romance, psychic powers, or the growth of a family.
As an adult woman: Often a healer, counselor or psychic, this is a woman who seems to know what's wrong even
before you open your mouth. Call her the emotional fix-it woman or the ultimate "mom," but she seems to have
exactly the right solution to problems relating to family, friends, love.
Sometimes she is so shy and self-effacing you might not even notice her; other times she can be a little scary, dreamy,
mysterious, possessing otherworldly powers or a spiritual connection. She can be a creative storyteller or artist. Also,
devoutly spiritual in her own way.
Affectionate and loving, she hugs, heals, and bakes cookies for her children. Her intuition is uncanny and her
temper...well, it runs very deep and you don't ever want it turned against you. Talk about scary.
Unfortunately, this is also a queen who can suffer from hormonal imbalances, depression, moodiness, alcoholism,
delusions and drug addiction. She is not above emotional manipulation, playing the fragile female who needs
protecting, the invalid who needs tending, or the sensitive who can't be told bad news. At her best, however, she has is
a well of emotional support and empathy that never runs dry. She will always be there for you.
Queen of Swords: Overflowing Understanding

As a development: Developing a speech, a scientific theory, a dissertation, working on a debate, or just spreading
news.
As an adult woman: She's a walking encyclopedia. Anything you want to know, this woman knows it, and as such
she can mingle with almost anyone. She can talk science with the scientists, history with the historians, literature with
the poets. She knows obscure facts, strange tid-bits, and she seems to love nothing better than to pour it all out, give it
away like gifts to help people.
In fact this woman is likely to be involved in a job that includes talking: psychology, politics, radio, or research. She
might be a scientist, doctor or lawyer. Far-sighted, she is usually ahead of the game when it comes to new
developments and will do many things-from cooking new cuisines, to using unconventional child rearing techniqueslong before it's in vogue. All of which tends to make her appear eccentric.
It's no surprise that men and women find themselves either threatened by her or fascinated. Her cool demeanor
enhances her allure, making her the most "queen-like" of the queens, and her talent with words can be used to either
lead one gently and persuasively over to her side, or tear an argument (and a person's self-worth) to pieces.
Obviously, her style of parenting can seem "un-motherly" as she believes in offering up facts to solve problems rather
than hugs and kisses. No one is better at intellectually stimulating her children, keeping them curious, helping them
with homework or dealing coolly and effectively with emergencies. But she is lacking when it comes to providing
emotional understanding and support. The Queen of Swords also likes to know everything, and she is likely to listen
in on conversations, read e-mails, etc. Worse, she might well tell others what she's learned thinking it will do good.
She means well, but her need to know and solve problems often outweighs other considerations. At her best,
however, she is the queen of strategy. If there is a problem that needs to be solved, a puzzle worked out, the Queen
of Swords is the one you want.
Queen of Pentacles: Organic Energy

As a development: Making real a business, altering a work situation, or developing an exercise or health plan.
As an adult woman: This is the practical, down-to-earth woman. She might, in fact, be an Earth Mother type
going for organic living, home gardens, and making her own home improvements, or a farmer's wife, tending
chickens, knitting sweaters and canning jams. But she could also be one of the rich and famous.
Rich or not, it is likely that she also owns her own successful business, be it cookies she bakes at home and sells at
local coffee houses, a small shop or a multi-national corporation. Her accounting is scrupulous, but that doesn't
mean she's afraid to spend. She loves beautiful things and, if she is on the wealthy side, will spare no expense to
decorate her homes with the perfect paintings, furniture, and trinkets. Her wealth and taste will be evident in her
dress, jewelry and make-up as well.
An enthusiastic outdoors woman, she's always encouraging friends and family to exercise, and she loves her outdoor
gardens as much as her indoor home. As in work, nothing less than giving her all to her family will do for the Queen
of Pentacles. She wants them to have the best so they can succeed. Her children may not have the best, but they will
never want; they will appreciate that their mother works hard to make sure they get what they need, and that their
family is steeped in good values and traditions. The Queen of Pentacles expectations may put a lot of pressure her
children, more than she realizes.
Also, this Queen's pragmatism, her dislike of anything strange or distasteful, may exclude anything unique or
imaginative - solutions as well as people. Even as an unconventional Earth Mother type, the Queen of Pentacles will
want her children to fit in with her community, its values and traditions. Her children or partner may feel that they
can't be themselves and still be loved.
At her best, however, this is the Queen of success. She has the patience, good sense and determination to make
things happen. She knows how to make dreams a reality.
KINGS
The King commands his realm; his word is Just,
an Impetus to action, fertile seed.
The Integrated Elder has decreed
his Judgement, the Idea that wins our trust.
General
The King corresponds to the element Fire, in which the Hot quality dominates the Dry quality. Because of the
dominant Hot quality, the King is characterized by expansiveness and movement, and so he is a source of
inspiration, motivation and authority for activity in his realm. The Hot quality also represents discrimination and
selection, so the King is responsible for setting directions and making decisions that affect his realm as a whole.
Because of the secondary quality, Dryness, the King is inclined to impose forms on other things; in particular, his
seed triggers the formative processes in the egg and womb of the Queen. The Impetus of the suit comes from the
King and descends the path of the court cards, IOUE, by means of Insemination, the Ovum, the Uterus and the
Emergence of the newborn; the offspring in turn ascends the path EVOI, developing by way of the Egotistic child
(Page), the Virgin youth (Knight), and the Organic parent (Queen) to culminate in the Integrated elder (King).
As the Queen represents the parent (of either sex) of the suit, so the King represents the elder (of either sex) of the
suit. They are both sources of authority (because dominated by active qualities: Hot or Cold), but manifest it in
different ways. The authority of the King as Elder lies in leadership, decision and motivation (Hot); the authority of
the Queen as Parent lies in nurturing, understanding and building cooperation (Cold). Due to his Dryness the King
is more apt to bring about change through command or argument, whereas the Queen, as a consequence of the Wet
quality, is more apt to change existing structures from within.
Key Words
Jove, Juno, Just, Judgement, Ignition, Ignis, Insemination, Impulse, Impetus, Inspiration, Iactus, I, Integral, Idea,
Intuition, Imagination, Impart.
Kings. Although they come last, they really should come first, as Kings are where the Court Cards start. They are
the fire - their element - the passion, the driving force. This is why Crowley has them as knights riding on horseback,
rather than sitting passively on a throne. Kings are filled with energy, moving, leading, generating.
The thing to remember with the Kings, however, is that while they are powerful motivators, they are still "in the
crown" - in the head. They can move mountains with their enthusiasm and energy and light a fire under almost
anything. But they can't make it real all by themselves.
What they can do, like the Emperor is motivate, plan and command. The Queen is the one who will make it real,
and the Knight/Prince will take it beyond the castle walls. But without the King, it won't happen at all. Thus, Kings
in a spread can indicate motivation, a beginning or start of something.
As actual people, Kings stand for men (or women) who are leaders, planners or have high aspirations; they dream of
having the best "kingdom" in the land. And they expect loyalty, especially from family and friends. They are men (or
women) of influence and power; others come to them for advice and, being Kings, they're usually stubbornly sure
that they're right.
King of Wands: Imparting Inspiration

As Motivation: The planning of a great trip, the idea for some grand new career, being motivated to go into
politics or take charge. Depending where it is in the spread, it can indicate that the querent has decided to take
command, to overthrow the old with his new, bold ideas.
As an Adult Man: Call him "The Preacher." He fills a room when he walks in, expansive, full of energy, charisma,
fun. You know this man; he's the motivational speaker, the charismatic church leader, the great innovator who can
turn a company around, with employees working overtime to please him. He is the warm politician, the idea man,
the bullying coach who transforms losers into winners. He loves danger, adventure, challenges.
This is Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Henry V. He always has to lead the charge and he hasn't friends so much
as worshippers; people either love him or hate him, and the same goes for his family. Not that he doesn't love his
family; he fell in love with his wife at first sight and wooed her till she loved him back; and he's great with kids. No
dad was ever so inventive or fun. But he fully expects his family to come with him, wherever he goes - be it on
African Safari or to the President's mansion. They must support whatever he does. If they don't, his other side can
come to the surface, one that is jealous, impatient, tyrannical. It is not surprising that sometimes his wife or children
will rebel against him, or leave him altogether. At his best, however, he is as adored by his off-spring as he is by his
people. His praise and approval is worth more to them than fame or fortunes, and they will go above and beyond the
call of duty to please him.
King of Cups: Imparting Openness

As Motivation: The motivation to start a family, which could include a proposal or suggestion to the wife to have
children. Motivation to be a new and better provider, father and husband, or be more emotionally mature.
As an Adult Man: Call him "The Godfather." A kinder, gentler, more loving man you'll never meet. His "kingdom"
is his family, and his one dream is to be sitting at the head of a huge table filled with kin, kids, grandkids, serving up
food to them all. He is paterfamilias, the father as capable of rocking babies to sleep, bandaging hurts and telling
bedtime stories as he is at coaching a sports team or offering fatherly advice. His family always comes first; for them
he'll work, sacrifice, do just about anything; and, yes, like the "Godfather" he will consider doing terrible things to
anyone who causes them grief.
This King understands emotions and is a master of his own emotions. As such, his ambition is to have a Kingdom
where everyone is emotionally mature, meaning courtly and civil. Hence, he motivates his family, friends and
community to be more neighborly and polite and responsible for each other's well being. To be, if you will, conscious
of each other's feelings. This is why he's sometimes seen in the occupation of a judge, as he is very sensitive to
fairness and knows how to put himself in another's shoes, to understand why they did what they did.
Very like the Queen of Cups, however, he can be too soft and sentimental. No matter how prodigal the son, this
father will always bail the kid out. It is almost impossible to make him see reason when it comes to his family. And
there is another problem: like his queen, he's not above manipulating emotions to get what he wants, especially if
he's trying to keep those he loves close to him. He also, like all the Cup Courts, may tend toward depression or
alcoholism.
At his best, however, this is the man the whole neighborhood thinks of as "Dad." Whether he really is their father or
just a surrogate, he is the one who settles disputes, the one they go to when they're in need of guidance. He is the
father figure that every father aspires to be.
King of Swords: Imparting Understanding

As Motivation: Motivated to come up with ideas or argue points. Motivated to find solutions, solve problems or
find better ways of doing things.
As an Adult Man: Call him "The Judge". His kingdom is the kingdom of high ideals. Loving, friendly, but distant,
the one thing everyone says about this man is "He's Fair." Likely a lawyer, judge, musician, politician or architect, he
is a patient, careful man, with very high ideals. Though he's objective and smart enough to see both sides of an
argument, he has strong beliefs, which he expects his family and friends to follow.
Not that he isn't a good father; he can be kind, playful, a loving and faithful husband. He engages his children in
stimulating dinner conversations, urging them to think for themselves, debate and research. But though he treats his
wife and kids fairly, acknowledging when they are right, he does not put family first like the King of Cups. Ideals
come first, and he can be unforgiving of the family member who is weaker or more "human" than he. If his own son
or daughter committed a crime, he'd judge them the same as any other criminal, and sentence them the same as any
other criminal.
Thus, his own fairness leaves his family feeling less than special to him and, at the same time, less able to make
mistakes.
This King has the most brilliant mind, one that, like a master chess player, can see many moves ahead, and take into
account a dozen different factors and elements. This puts him above and sometime beyond his subjects. They may
not always understand why he decides as he decides, but he does so with the highest ideals and best intent. Which is
why he will not budge when it comes to upholding his decisions, not even for his nearest and dearest.
Though he can be viewed as cold, distant, harsh, even cruel, he is, at his best, able to see very clearly how his
judgments will affect everyone in the present and future. He is the one that everyone, even the other Kings, go to
when they need someone to make the hardest and most far-reaching decisions.
King of Pentacles: Impetus to Effect

As Motivation: Motivation to start a new business, motivation to craft or build something, to save money or restore
health.
As an Adult Man: Call him the "Old Farmer" and his Kingdom is his "business" or farm. Proud and self-reliant,
this esteemed gentleman is likely a civil servant, executive, engineer, manager, farmer, health guru or, surprisingly,
entertainer. Wherever he is, he worked hard to be in charge and in charge he intends to stay.
He knows he ought to be in charge because he has common sense, a meticulous nature, and the ability to motive
others to work hard. It's important to him that the job be done right. And, in fact, whatever he is in charge of will
grow steadily, reliably, and abundantly.
No risks or chances will be taken, however. And there likely will be no innovations or changes.
Because he is spare with words, he can seem cold and aloof, but those who get to know him find him surprisingly
charming and funny. When he's relaxed he can tell the most amusing tales at the dinner table. And he is, underneath
it all, kind and loyal. If you need help, he will help and never ask for repayment. But if you help him, he'll repay you
as soon as he can; he doesn't like being beholden to anyone.
He will always provide for his family even sacrifice for them, and he expects them to be equally responsible,
hardworking and disciplined. If they are, he'll stick by them through thick and thin. If they aren't, however, they may
be deemed lazy and could be disowned, especially if they're odd or different enough to embarrass the King of
Pentacles.
Much like his queen, the King of Pentacles wants to be respected by his community, and so is conservative in
upholding its values and traditions. He is not impulsive, experimental or artistic-his motto most likely is "if it ain't
broke don't fix it." But while he's not against others being experimental or artistic, he dislikes anything or anyone
who makes him stand out. Anyone who causes him embarrassment, be they family, friends or enemies, will not be
forgiven.
In addition to this stubborn nature, the King of Pentacles can be an odd mix of cheap and spend-thrift, cutting
corners and refusing to pay for things he believes should be cheaper like milk, yet spending a great deal on things he
believes give him status, like clothes or a new car.
At his best, however, he generates such respect for his hard work, his care, and his innate generosity that those who
love him value his approval of their work more than the gold he pays them for it.
SPREADS
Tetractys Spread
Introduction
The Tetractys spread makes use of this most sacred symbol of the Pythagoreans, and thus it is the most suitable
spread to use with the Pythagorean Tarot. One of Pythagoras' aphorisms says:
What is the Oracle at Delphi?
The Tetractys, the very thing which is the Harmonia of the Sirens.
And the most solemn oath of the Pythagoreans is:
Nay! By him that gave our family the Tectractys,
which holds the Fount and Root of everflowing Nature.
Each plane (row) is laid out from left to right. First are the Four Elements, then centered above them the Three
Principles, then the Two Seeds, and finally the One Fruit. In general terms, the left side of the Tetractys (loci, or
positions, 1, 5, 8, 10) constitutes the Transpersonal Axis, and represents aspects of the situation that are larger than
the individual. This axis is the path of evolution, by which the World Soul proceeds from itself. The right side (loci 4,
7, 9, 10) is the Personal Axis, representing aspects that are individual in nature. This axis is the path of involution
whereby the World-Soul returns to itself. Thus the two axes begin and end at the apex (locus 10), representing the
World Soul, where they are coincident. The intermediate loci (2, 3, 6) represent aspects that mix the personal and
transpersonal natures. (Mead 162-8)
In the following description the loci are numbered in the order they are laid out, not according to their Pythagorean
values (for which, see More about the Tetractys); the names are given in Latin and Greek as well as English.
Four Elements
The Four Elements refer to the mundane world and the different ways the ego experiences it; Pythagorean doctrine
calls this plane Mundane (evolution) and Physical (involution). The elements also correspond to the four functions of
consciousness identified by Jung (sensation, feeling, thinking, intuition). The remarks made about the four suits of the
Minor Arcana also apply here. In this spread the elements are arranged from most to least dense, representing a
gradation from more collective to more individual experiences.
1. Earth (Terra, Gaia)
The Earth locus refers to aspects of the question that are material or relate to nature and the body; it relates to the
function of consciousness that Jung calls Sensation. In particular, this locus comments on aspects relating to physical
existence (food, shelter, physical comfort, etc.). Earth is dry and cold: dryness (the power of rigidity) refers to the
inviolability of these material aspects; coldness (the uniting power) refer to their shared character, for in them we are
all alike, even with the beasts.
2. Water (Aqua, Hudr)
The Water locus refers to emotions and relationships; it corresponds to the Feeling function. In particular, this locus
represents our emotional entanglements with the world, especially with people (love, hate, friendship, fear,
dependency, etc.). Water is cold and wet: coldness (the uniting power) refers to relationships; wetness (the adaptive
power) refer to the flexibility and fluidity of emotional reactions.
3. Air (Aer, Ar)
The Air locus refers to ideas and reason; it is the Thinking function in Jung's taxonomy. In particular, it refers to our
creative, intellectual activities. Air is wet and hot: wetness (the fluid power) refers to the fluidity and adaptability of
thought; hotness (the discriminative power) refers to our ability to draw distinctions and make innovations.
4. Fire (Ignis, Pur)
The Fire locus refers to ideals, inspiration and spiritual matters; it corresponds to the function that Jung calls
Intuition. In particular, this locus refers to our deepest aspirations, commitments, intuitions and motivations. Fire is
hot and dry: hotness (the power of separation) refers to the discriminative force of ideals and intuitive inspiration;
dryness (the inflexible power) refers to the imperative force of aspiration and intuition.
Three Principles
The Three Principles refer to our experience of time and change; Pythagorean doctrine calls this plane Planetary
(evolution) and Psychic (involution). (Note, my assignment of these loci to the astrological crosses, which is based on
Hamaker-Zondag, 56-67, differs from Williams, 168-9.)
5. Salt (Sal, Hals)

The Salt locus represents the fixed past, for it cannot be changed, and memory, which is the psychic correspondent of
the past. (Thus, salt is bitter, but a source of wisdom, see 17.Moon.) In particular, this locus represents the foundation
of the situation addressed by the question. It thus corresponds to the Fixed cross in astrology (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio,
Aquarius), which represents an inward orientation of psychic energy and a tendency to adapt to the inner world.
The Salt locus is closely related to the Earth and Water loci, which are below it, since our psychic past comprises the
(immutable) objective past and our (mutable) emotional appraisal of it. (And thus their mixture can produce either
bitter, poisonous brine or the elixir of the wise.)
6. Quicksilver (Argentum vivum, Hudrarguros)
The Quicksilver locus represents the mutable present, which is in flux, and the present moment, which is its psychic
correspondent. In particular, this locus represents the role of the present moment in the situation, especially focusing
on its ability to change, the crux of the problem. Thus Quicksilver (present) mediates between Salt (past) and
Sulphur (future); it creates psychic life by mediating between the concrete, dead past and the ephemeral, living
future. It corresponds to the Mutable cross of astrology (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces), and thus to our ability to
change between inner and outer the orientations of the psyche and between adaptation to the inner and outer
worlds. Overall, its position in the center of the Tetractys represents our control over the situation.
The Quicksilver locus is closely related to the Water and Air loci, which are below it, since our present choice is
based on emotional appraisal (Water) and rational analysis (Air) of the situation. The fluid present thus involves both
synthesis (cool Water) and analysis (warm Air).
7. Sulphur (Sulfur, Theion)
The Sulphur locus refers to the volatile future and to our intention, which is the psychic correspondent of the future.
In particular, this locus refers to future aspects of the situation: endings, changes, goals and intentions - the fiery spirit
that the Quicksilver must reconcile with the unchangeable, perhaps bitter, past (Salt). It corresponds to the Cardinal
cross in astrology (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn), and thus to an outward orientation of psychic energy and to a
tendency to adapt to the outer world.
The Sulphur locus is closely related to the Air and Fire, which are below it, since the future is born out of our
thought (Air) and inspiration (Fire). Both elements are warm, which represents the inevitable discrimination between
the path taken and all the rest.
Two Seeds
The Two Seeds refer specifically to the unconscious and conscious parts of the psyche, but generally to all dark-light
oppositions; Pythagorean doctrine calls this plane Ethereal (evolution) and Spiritual (involution). Williams (168-9)
calls these loci Tenebrae (Darkness) and Lux (Light), and assigns them to Yin and Yang, which is consistent with the
Pythagorean interpretation that follows.
8. Moon (Luna, Selene)
The Moon locus refers to the unconscious psyche, and to all the dark, invisible aspects of the situation. In particular,
it represents aspects of the problem that are obscure, hidden, indistinct or archetypal. These are the unseen forces of
which it's most important to become cognizant. They are often inertial in their action, and reflect the flow (or Tao) of
the universe. The Moon locus is closely related to the Salt and Quicksilver loci below it, since the unconscious
comprises both the past (individual and collective) and the present state of the psyche.
9. Sun (Sol, Helios)
The Sun locus refers to the conscious psyche, and to all the clear, visible aspects of the situation. In particular, it
represents what is manifest, unhidden, distinct and in conscious awareness. These forces tend to be impulsive (noninertial, against the flow) and reflect the actions of the individual. The Sun locus is closely related to the Quicksilver
and Sulphur loci below it, since the conscious psyche is especially devoted to present awareness (Quicksilver) and
future plans (Sulphur).
One Fruit
The One Fruit refers to the Unus Mundus (One World) or the Self, the integrated psyche; Pythagorean doctrine
assigns this plane to the World Soul (Anima Mundi).
10. Stone (Lapis, Lithos)
The totality of the universe comprises the hidden transpersonal world and the transparent world of personal
consciousness, which are in fact two sides of the Unus Mundus. Thus it unites the Moon and Sun, which occupy the
loci below it. Further, a synchronistic event (meaningful coincidence) is a coincidence of these opposites (Coincidentia
Oppositorum), that is, a unitary event manifesting simultaneously in the two worlds (the material world and the
meaningful world). Divination operates by attempting to create a synchronistic event, thereby revealing in
consciousness the hidden motion of the Tao (Unus Mundus). (von Franz, ch. 11) (For more on this, refer back to
"Divination" in the Introduction.)
In simple terms, this locus represents the resolution or outcome of the situation. More precisely, it represents the
Kairos (Critical Moment) at the pivot of the cosmological structure represented by the cards occupying the loci of the
Tetractys.
Rebuilding the Temple Spread

by Diane Wilkes
Based on the Tower card, numbered 16, this spread has seven cards (1+6). The Tower experience can be literally
shattering, but it also allows you to rebuild an edifice that serves you better. Rebuild your personal temple so you can
reach unimagined, but fulfilling, heights.
7
5 4
1 2 3
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The ShardsWhat must I retrieve from the rubble?

The FoundationWhat must be placed at the core?
The MortarWhat must I create anew?
Pillar of MercyWhat I cultivate in my temple
Pillar of SeverityWhat I will not tolerate in my temple
The BeaconWhat must I emit to others?
The PinnacleWhat unknown heights may I aspire to?
Read the first three cards individually, but also as a unit. Cards four and five should also be viewed separately, but
also as two sides of the same coin.
Wheel of the Year Tarot Spread

by Kim Huggens
This spread is designed for use as a "What's in store for me this coming year?" spread, but it is slightly different from
your usual month-by-month round-up spread. Instead of having cards representing each month of the year, and
instead of looking at specific events that will happen in the querent's life each month, this spread does not pay any
attention to dates or months. It focuses on the themes that will run through the querent's life for the next twelve
months, and can also be used at any time of the year. I have found it to be most effective when done on birthdays or
New Year's Eve, and it makes a very nice 'gift reading' for a close friend.
This spread is based on the Pagan 'Wheel of the Year.' The use of the eight festivals here is are used as
representations of concepts, just like we might use the different growth stages of a flower to represent different
aspects of our lives. Even though the spread is based around concepts and festivals that have associations with dates
and months of the year, this spread does not address when the events are going to happen.So, even if lots of cards
that indicate transition appear at Imbolc, it does not mean that transition will occur around February 1st in the
querent's life!
The Wheel of the Year spread is most useful for Pagan or Wiccan querents, though for querents who are unfamiliar
with the concept of the Wheel of the Year, simple explanations about what each festival represents should be
provided.
There are three cards for each part or position of the spread, and there are eight positions or parts. Since Yule represents
the birth of the Sun from the depths of Winter, I begin the reading with that holiday.
Yule/Winter Solstice: Three cards. Yule is the time of the rebirth of the Sun from the depths and darkness of
Winter, and so these three cards indicate that which will be born into the querent's life during this year, the new
beginnings and projects, or the sudden birth of ideas, feelings, and aspects of the self.
Imbolc: Three cards. Imbolc is the time of the first stirring of the earth from beneath the Winter snows, and the
rekindling of the flame of life. These three cards indicate that which will begin to grow in the querent's life in the
coming year, but will not bear fruit fully for quite some time. That which will bud but not flower, that which is in the
very first stages of creation, and that which will 'simmer under the surface' in the querent's life.
Ostara/Spring Equinox: Three cards. This is the equinox, so it is a time of balance. These three cards indicate
that which will bring the querent's life into some sort of balance during the coming year, and keep the querent in
balance and moving towards their goal.
Beltane: Three cards. Beltane is May day, a time for sexuality and passion. As such, these three cards indicate the
passions that will come into play in the querent's life this year, and how the querent's life will grow as a result. These
cards also indicate that which they will love most this year and give most attention to, and that which will 'fertilize' his
or her life and make him or her grow (physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually) during the coming year.
Litha/Summer Solstice: Three cards. Litha, or the Summer Solstice, is the time when the Sun is at its peak and
is highest in the sky. As such, these three cards indicate the querent at his or her peak in the coming year, and the
projects/events/ideas that will reach their peak for the querent. It can also indicate the best part of the year, the
achievements of the year, and the full fruition of plans in the querent's life. This is the querent and his or her life, at
its best.
Lughnassad: Three cards. Otherwise known as First Fruits or Lammas, Lughnassadh is the beginning of the
harvest. These three cards indicate that which will come to bear fruit this year in the querent's life, but will not quite
be ready for a full harvest for a while. (Notice this is the opposite festival of Imbolc, where the flowering is delayed.the opposite in some way to harvest being delayed.) These cards indicate the projects or aspects of the querent's life
that he/she is beginning to see the fruits of his/her labors in. The rewards are starting to show themselves, but they
are not quite ready to be grabbed fully yet!
Mabon/Autumn Equinox: Three cards. Mabon, the opposite of Ostara, is the middle of the harvest, as well as
another time of balance. It represents bounty and joy, and that which will be bounteous in the querent's life in the
coming year, and that which will bring joy and cause for celebration. These cards can also indicate the full harvest
the querent will reap from their past ventures and hard work.
Samhain: Three cards. Traditionally, Samhain is the end of the harvest, when the Celts (the 'creators' of this
festival) culled their herds. As such, these three cards indicate what will die in the querent's life this year, what will
come to an end, and what he or she will cull from his/her life. It will also include what the querent will get rid of
because it is no longer necessary.
Blessings: Three cards. A nice way to end the reading is to make three blessings from three cards. These cards can
represent advice for the querent, or it can indicate what is 'on the querent's side' during the year, helping and keeping
him or her going.
For this reading, I also found it useful to work out the querent's Year Card, so that it tells you the general theme of
the year. To do this you add the month and date of birth (e.g- July 17th becomes 17/07, so 17 + 7) to the current
year. (Example: 17 + 7 = 24. 24 + 2004 = 2028) You then add up the separate digits of the final number until you
reduce it to a number less than 22. (2 + 0 + 2 + 8 = 12) That number is the number of the Major Arcana card that
is the querent's Year Card (in this case, the Hanged Man) and it tells you generally what kind of year the querent can
expect to have. If the querent's year card turns up in the reading itself, it is useful to pay particular attention to
where it has turned up, and why. (Note: 22 = The Fool.)
You might also like to look at what suit is most predominant in the cards you have dealt, as that may give you some
clues as to another theme of the querent's year. (For instance, if there are more Wands than any other suit, you might
say that this year is going to focus on creativity and putting talents to work, or that it is going to be an unusually
creative and active year.)
I found it easiest to lay the cards in a circle of sorts, so that the three Yule cards were at the bottom, the three Litha
cards at the top (Litha and Yule are both Solstices and so they are opposite in the year aswell as in the spread!), the
Spring Equinox cards in the middle left, the three Autumn Equinox cards in the middle right, and the Cross-quarter
festivals in between:
...............................Litha 1, 2, 3...............................
..........Beltane 1, 2, 3...............Lughnassad 1, 2, 3........
Ostara 1, 2, 3.......................................Mabon, 1, 2, 3.............
..........Imbolc 1, 2, 3.................Samhain 1, 2, 3................
...............................Yule 1, 2, 3.................................
Blessings, 1, 2, 3.
During the reading, you may find that you begin to build up a clear picture in your mind as to the main theme
running through the querent's year. Often you will also be able to see this theme developing as you go around the
reading: you may see the theme reach its apex at Litha, or see the fruits of it at Mabon. Whatever happens, I have
found this reading preferable to normal month-by-month forecasts since I think it goes deeper. Month-by-month
readings can be limited, in that they only focus on what happens within that single month, and it can be very difficult
to build up a continuous picture of the querent's year on a more in-depth scale. But with the Wheel of the Year
spread, we are not limited to 'this is what will happen in July...' We have the year as a whole laid out before us, and so
we can not only pick up on specific events, but the deeper effects of them, and how they will affect the rest of the
year.
The Beginning Tree

by Kris Waldherr
Card One: The root of the venture. The deep issues pushing you toward it.
Card Two: Early growth of the venture. How your talents and actions will support

it.
Card Three: The flowering of the venture. How others will react to it.
Card Four: The fruition of the venture. How it will change you and your life.
Cards Five & Six: Details from your past to consider before you begin your venture.
Cards Seven & Eight: Details that will arise as the venture develops.
Card Nine: The overall outcome. What can be expected if the venture begins as

planned at this time.
The Hermits Quest

by Ellen Lorenzi-Prince
In the Major Arcana, the Hermit, like the Fool, goes on a journey. The Hermit, however, does so with intent, leaving
behind all s/he knows to seek alone for something more. The Hermit card is also often called the Inner Teacher.
What this means is that you must learn for yourself, through your own work and experience. This spread is intended
to help you understand and define your quest for that something more in your life, to bring it one step closer.
Multiple questions are listed for each spread position, to help expand your thoughts on the subjects. You may select
the one that feels most pertinent to your personal situation, or you may consider them all. Additional cards may be
selected for the additional questions, or you may consider that facets of the single card you choose holds the answers
for all. The cards, and the power, are in your hands.
Setting Out:
Card 1 Why I leave
Why am I not satisfied with what I already have or what I already know? What is pushing me or driving me on?
Card 2 What I seek
What is calling out to my soul? What have I been missing all my life? What is the unknown that needs knowing?
Card 3 What road I take
Where do I begin my search? What is my first step? What is the road that is right in front of me? How can I know its
the right road?
On the Road:
Card 4 What I bring
What do I think I need to help in my search? What do I truly need? What do I always carry with me?
Card 5 What I leave
What am I choosing to leave behind? What am I inadvertently leaving behind? What do I wish I could leave behind?
Card 6 What I find
What do I find that I have always known would be there? What do I find that is unexpected? What is the value of
what I find?
In the End:
Card 7 Why I am alone
Why is this my very own journey? What does walking alone mean to me? Who am I really?
Card 8 Where I arrive
What does having what I sought look like? What does it feel like? How can I know when I have found it?
Card 9 Where I go from here
To what might I want to return? For what might I want to keep looking? How does what Ive found change my next
steps?
Creating Life Spread

by Ellen Lorenzi-Prince
This spread was presented at the San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium, October 2002.
First focus on a creative work of yours. This work might be a tarot deck, a book, a relationship, or an identity.

2. The Spirit 3. The Form
4. My Doubts 5. My Faith
1. The Calling
6. Finding Depth 7. Adding Breadth
8. Inner Obstacle 9. Outer Obstacle
10. Starting Over
11. Inner Gift 12. Outer Gift

13. The Last Word
1. The Calling - What is your motivation? What is calling you, pushing you, pulling you to manifest this particular
vision?
2. The Spirit - What is the spirit, the vision? What helps you connect with spirit, the genie behind the work? What
desires or requires expression?
3. The Form - What is the form best suited to your vision? How might the spirit best be made manifest? What is
the labor required?
4. My Doubts - What makes you doubt your vision? What denies you the right to your work and the rewards of
your work?
5. My Faith - What makes you trust your vision? What helps you believe in yourself ? How do you maintain flow
through completion of the work?
6. Finding Depth - How much of yourself can you put into this work? How much emotion? What events of your
past might illuminate your work?
7. Adding Breadth - How much of the world can you put into this work? Where can you find resources and
inspiration outside of yourself ?
8. Outer Obstacle - What are the habits and responsibilities that keep you from your work? How might they be
overcome? How might they be changed?
9. Inner Obstacle - What shadows might rear their ugly heads during this work? What attitudes and emotions
should you beware?
10. Starting Over - What needs rethinking? Where are you straying from your vision? Where might you need to
abandon your vision?
11. Inner Gift - What strength and knowledge will you find upon completion of this work? How will continuing
your work change you for the better?
12. Outer Gift - What rewards can you look forward to? How will continuing your work change your circumstance
for the better?
13. The Last Word - Just what it says.
Biography Spread
by Diane Wilkes
Separate the deck into three piles: Major Arcana, Court Cards, Minor Arcana. Once separated, shuffle each pile
separately and place them face-down in that order, to select cards as directed.
12
1 2 3
4 5
6 7
8 9
10 11
Card One: Life Theme (Major Arcana)
Card Two: Life Challenge (Major Arcana)
Card Three: Raison d'etre (Major Arcana)
Cards Four and Five: Childhood -- who the individual was and what went on (Court Card)(Minor Arcana)
Cards Six and Seven: Adolescence -- who the individual was and what went on (Court Card)(Minor Arcana)
Cards Eight and Nine: Adulthood 21-40 -- who the individual was and what went on (Court Card)(Minor Arcana)
Cards Ten and Eleven: Adulthood 40-? -- who the individual was and what went on (Court Card)(Minor Arcana)
Card Twelve: Crowning Achievement (Major Arcana)
Hourglass Spread
by Thrysse
9 10 11
7 8
6
4 5
1 2 3
This spread is based on the idea of turning over a new leaf, or each new year as a chance to start fresh. The
hourglass is a symbol often associated with the new year and the passing of discrete elements of time (or maybe in
this case, it should be called the "yearglass"). It has five levels, with three cards on the bottom, two cards above that,
one in the middle, two cards above that, and three cards again at the top. The spread is read from
bottom to top as follows:
Base Level (three cards): This level represents the sands that have already fallen, and the cards in this level
represent things to reflect on about the past year - accomplishments, major changes, any significant problems,
overall focus.
2nd Level (two cards): This level represents sands that have recently fallen, and energies that are passing out of
your life or need to be released.
Middle (one card): This is a snapshot in time, as the sand passes through the narrowest part of the hourglass,
representing where you are at this exact moment in your life.
4th Level (two cards): This represents sands about to fall, and energies or influences that will soon enter your life
in the new year.
Top Level (three cards): This level represents the vast potential of the coming year, the sand reservoir and all the
things that may come to pass. Here you will find the potentials and possibilities - things that you can accomplish,
major transitions that are coming, and issues that are ready to be dealt with in the coming year.
The Tree of Life Returning Spread

by Lynell K. Landru
The following layout is based on the Qabala Tree of Life. By beginning at the root of the tree and progressing
upwards, the reader gives the client a chance to explore the various areas of concern in the dying process. I have
given the title and a brief explanation for each of the corresponding ten spheres of power, gates, or Sephiroth
(angels) on the Tree. These are just to aid the reader in understanding the organization of the spread. Most
important are the descriptions for how each position should be read.
1 0
8 9
x
6 7
5
3 4
2
1
1. Malkuth: The Kingdom - Physical manifestation: grounding.
This is the purpose of the reading, the main question surrounding the death situation. It could point to hope itself:
the desire to understand or make things "better."
2. Yesod: The Foundation - The Subconscious: energies.
These are the hidden issues crossing the situation. The undercurrents or base of surrounding circumstances.
3. Hod: Splendor - Intellect: language, communication.
This has to do with the mental aspects of the situation. Possible denials may show up here. This position can help
open communication up concerning unacknowledged areas. What the client needs to know on a basic level about
his/her personal approach to the experience of death.
4. Netzach: Victory - Emotions: intuitions, arts.
This placement relates to the emotional aspects of the situation. Possible depression, guilt, and unresolved emotional
issues surface here. The client will need to open up to suppressed feelings regarding the death experience. These
issues tend to be more personal, centered around the self.
5. Tiphareth: Beauty - Healing: redemption.
Here the client can rest and receive encouragement and guidance regarding what has been discussed before. A time
of integration of mind and heart. A positive word about the unity of Life. A redirection and refocusing of the
question. The positive essence of the experience.
6. Geburah: Strength - Judgment: clarity, discernment.
This position speaks to the possible anger of the client. Provides a time for "venting" hostile feelings that life is
"unfair." It might point to relationships or situations that claim the client's energy. Unresolved resentments. A time to
validate these feelings and/or attitudes. Compare to position 4: could echo feelings in 4, but tends to be more social,
less personal. Patterns that extend past the immediate situation.

7. Chesed: Mercy - Synthesis: settlement.
This begins the resolution of issues. A new level of awareness. Forgiveness and wisdom. Insights for moving past
blocks. Here, the reading may bring up "bargaining with God" issues. This position can make suggestions as to how
these concerns (bargains) can be worked through or released. Making arrangements for unfinished business.
Compare to position 3: tends to expand on attitudes discussed in 3, but seeks completion and stabilization, especially
for physical and/or personal needs.
Before moving to the 8th card. The reader should pause and again affirm the client. On the tree of life, Daath (the
invisible gate) stands before the next levels. This gate is the leap of faith across the abyss. It signifies the mysterious
knowledge, which is love. At this point, the release of previous attachments is addressed. The reader may or may not
want to draw a special card for Daath.
8. Binah: Understanding - Receptivity: detachment.
Here the client will be given insight into acceptance of the situation. This position now takes a forward approach. A
possible time to discuss the question, "What will it be like?" Last concerns or attachments might show up, something
of great priority to client: What will happen to ______?
9. Chokmah: Wisdom - Positive energy: direction, final release.
This position provides the client with advice on last words, life review, gifts of insights. What the client has learned
about life, gained, been given. What he/she would like others to know. Good-byes.
10. Kether: Crown - Unity: God, divine, peace.
This position should serve as a final affirmation and/or meditation for the client. Something to carry with him/her.
Points to the peace of resolution, trust.

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Tarot

Basic Tarot Meaning

2 THE HIGH PRIESTESS

Basic Tarot Meaning

Basic Tarot Meaning

10 THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

Basic Tarot Story

12 THE HANGED MAN

Basic Tarot Meaning

Basic Tarot Story

Basic Tarot Meaning

Versus Pythagorici de Numeris

These Words Arcane the Lesser Secrets hold;

VI. By Six degrees the high and low are wed,

Ace of Wands: Inspiration

Ace of Cups: Longing

Ace of Swords: Idea

Ace of Pentacles: Ambition

Two of Wands: Beginning of Transformation

Two of Cups: Beginning of the Relationship

Two of Swords: Beginning of Analysis

Two of Pentacles: Beginning of the Project

Three of Wands: Accomplishment

Three of Cups: Fulfillment

Three of Swords: Separation

Three of Pentacles: Success

Four of Wands: Earned Rewards

Four of Cups: Doldrums

Four of Swords: Peace

Four of Pentacles: Productivity

Five of Wands: Spiritual Crisis

Five of Cups: Emotional Crisis

Five of Swords: Intellectual Crisis

Five of Pentacles: Material Crisis

Six of Wands: Courage

Six of Cups: Acceptance

Six of Swords: Understanding

Six of Pentacles: Generosity

Seven of Wands: Advance into the Mystery

Seven of Cups: Pursuing Dreams

Seven of Swords: Leap to Commitment

Seven of Pentacles: A New Venture

Eight of Wands: Decisive Action

Eight of Cups: Renunciation

Eight of Swords: Accepting Limitations

Eight of Pentacles: Apprenticeship

Nine of Wands: Master of Will

Nine of Cups: Master of Wishes

Nine of Swords: Master of Words

Nine of Pentacles: Master of Wealth

Ten of Wands: Resurgence of Spirit

Ten of Cups: Resurgence of Feeling

Ten of Swords: Resurgence of Intellect

Ten of Pentacles: Resurgence of Accomplishment

Page of Wands: Emerging Inspiration

Page of Cups: Emerging Openness

Page of Swords: Emerging Understanding

Page of Pentacles: Energy of the Earth

Knight of Wands: Vitality of Impulse

Knight of Cups: Vitality of Openness

Knight of Swords: Vitality of Understanding

Knight of Pentacles: Vitality of Effort

Queen of Wands: Overflowing Intuition

Queen of Cups: Overflowing Openness