Archive for October, 2009

Wheel of Fortune

The eleventh card in the sequence of the tarot deck is the Wheel of Fortune. The number associated with this card is ten. It is important to note that while ten is itself a number of completion and conclusion, the addition of its digits leaves you with only one. This is a reminder that all [...]

The eleventh card in the sequence of the tarot deck is the Wheel of Fortune. The number associated with this card is ten. It is important to note that while ten is itself a number of completion and conclusion, the addition of its digits leaves you with only one. This is a reminder that all ends are also beginnings in their own right. Unlike many of the cards of the Major Arcana that have come before it, the Wheel of Fortune card represents a force that is not only unseen, but essentially impossible to fully understand.

The Wheel of Fortune reminds us not only of the elements in life and in the universe at large that we cannot control no matter how we may try, but also of the fact that all things come in cycles. Each one of us must take our turn at each of the stations of the Wheel sooner or later, as it is perpetually turning. Misfortune cannot last forever, but alas… neither can a comfortable seat at the top of the world.  As one person’s position on the great wheel rises, another person’s must fall. Thus goes the natural progression of lives, fortunes, and destinies. Many people also feel that the concept of the Wheel of Fortune card represents the circle of life itself – each living thing taking its turn at life on earth and eventually stepping aside so that new life can emerge in its place.

The traditional tarot image for the Wheel of Fortune shows the wheel itself residing up in the sky amongst the clouds to symbolize the fact that its nature is ultimately something that we will only be able to understand and define but so well. In many depictions of the tarot, there are three figures situated at different points around the wheel – the Great Sphinx, the world serpent Typhon, and the god figure Hermanubis. The serpent represents life as we know it on earth, Hermanubis stands similarly for the life we will experience beyond, and the Sphinx represents the balance between the two. The image of the Wheel of Fortune as a whole emphasizes the continuity of the great, grand cycle of life, as well as the universe at large. It also reminds us that all souls, as well as all worlds, are forever united in adherence to this cycle.
 
When the Wheel of Fortune shows up in a tarot spread, it almost always denotes a monumental change that is certain to come to pass in the near future. What type of change this will ultimately turn out to be depends on where on the Wheel the querent currently sits. If everything’s been going his way, he should watch out for unexpected developments to the opposite tune and prepare to the greatest extent possible. Alternatively, if he just hasn’t been able to catch a break, he should watch for signs that things will be looking up dramatically very shortly. The positioning of this card, as well as the surrounding cards in the spread can help shed more light on how exactly the querent can expect to be most affected.

It’s also important to note that the changes foretold by the appearance of the Wheel of Fortune card are of the type that takes the form of a bolt from the blue. The instruments that bring them about are usually the results of sheer strokes of luck – either good or bad. While it is true that one can only prepare so well for the unexpected, the querent should keep in mind that even some preparation or foreknowledge is better than none. He should also keep in mind that whatever changes come about are ultimately temporary in the grand scheme of things as the cycle will continue on as always.

The Hermit

The tenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck is that of the Hermit. The Hermit symbolizes that point in a journey (or a life) in which the inevitable questions and unsolved mysteries about the meaning of it all begin eating away at our minds. At this point, we have finally mastered our baser [...]

The tenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck is that of the Hermit. The Hermit symbolizes that point in a journey (or a life) in which the inevitable questions and unsolved mysteries about the meaning of it all begin eating away at our minds. At this point, we have finally mastered our baser instincts, pure desires, and raw emotions and we are ready to realize that the answers we seek now can only be found within ourselves.
 
The Hermit seeks to remind us that in order to reach his full potential, a seeker must at some point get to know himself and experience that type of knowledge that can only come  from self discovery. Certain truths and revelations are only able to come to light when there is absolutely nothing from outside left to distract. The last couple of cards in the tarot sequence taught us about the miracles that come about when one is able to silence inner noise and disturbance. Now it is time to achieve the absence of outer disturbance as well and see what wonders may come of that.

The traditional tarot image of the Hermit shows us a robed figure setting forth alone on a personal journey. Some describe him as a wise man or a monk, while others simply think of him as a seeker or traveler. His only possessions are a lantern to light the way ahead and a simple wooden walking stick to help him safely navigate the barren landscape over which he travels. In some images, the light within the lantern itself is actually a star, meant to represent the Light of the World. Eventually the Hermit will return to civilization again once he has found what he’s looking for. He will also pass on the lessons he’s learned, but not directly. While the Hermit can tell other seekers how he himself found the wisdom that changed his life, it is something they must ultimately go and find for themselves in turn.

The visual image of the Hermit as a whole seeks to remind us that true enlightenment itself always comes from within. While it is one thing to listen to the teachings of others, it is only when the noise from without is silenced and left behind that the wisdom from inside one’s self can begin to emerge. Knowledge becomes true wisdom through experience and soul-searching only.

As is the case with many of the cards in the Major Arcana, the Hermit can represent an individual when he makes an appearance in a spread. This is most likely to be someone wise and worldly that the querent thinks of as a teacher or mentor of sorts. It is also likely to be someone that the querent interacts with on a one-on-one basis without the presence (or even knowledge) of his friends or family. Teachers, therapists, or even simply inspirational friends are all distinct possibilities.

The Hermit can also signify an approaching time of necessary seclusion for the querent, or at least a desire for such. At times, the best way to solve a problem is to retreat for a while and let solitude take its course, as many of us think best when left on our own to recharge our batteries for a spell. This would not be a time for being around others or for making definitive decisions in any capacity. Instead it will be a period of intense introspection, consideration, and possibly also frustration, but the querent should be made aware that he will come out on the other side with the answers he’s been searching for.

Strength

The ninth card in the sequence of the tarot deck is that depicting the concept of Strength. As is the case with the entire sequence, the Strength card continues to build on the lessons of the cards that have come before it. The eighth card – the Chariot — already taught our traveler the absolute [...]

The ninth card in the sequence of the tarot deck is that depicting the concept of Strength. As is the case with the entire sequence, the Strength card continues to build on the lessons of the cards that have come before it. The eighth card – the Chariot — already taught our traveler the absolute importance of gaining control over his raw emotions and basic instincts. Now Strength teaches him to rise above them, achieving a greater state of being in the process.

One of the first things we learn from Strength is that it’s not the straightforward concept it might seem to be at first. There are many ways to be strong. Of course, being strong of body and muscle is probably the most commonly known way, but it is very important to note that this is not the type of strength that this card represents. Instead, we’re being asked to take a look at fortitude of mind, of will, and of spirit. When we have this type of strength at our disposal, it’s possible to overcome anything life throws at us, as everything must eventually bow to a will greater than its own.

The traditional tarot image of Strength depicts a woman clothed in flowing robes of pure white grappling with a lion. We can see that the lion’s will has already been bested by that of the lady, as he wears a lead of flowers around his neck. The lady herself is in the act of closing the lion’s jaws, although some believe alternatively that she is prying the jaws open. Whichever is the case, it is clear that the lady does not possess the same brawny variety of strength the lion does. Hers is instead a quieter strength based on steadfastness, persistence, and patience. It is also a strength built of courage. Eventually she will best the lion through use of all these virtues in tandem showing that inner strength is ultimately more powerful than outer strength.

The image as a whole represents the triumph of the human spirit and the mind over man’s raw, unfettered emotions and baser instincts. Once these powerful forces are harnessed and under control, they are no longer a hindrance to growth and can be used for the greater good at large. Learn to control your animal instincts instead of letting them control you, and you will become an unstoppable force in the world without question. It is the ability to master this process that separates man from beast.

When the Strength card shows up in a tarot spread, it can signify a number of situations. However, all typically have to do with powerful forces at work that can be controlled and bested through the application of inner fortitude. These forces may exist within or without, but either way, the Strength card assures the querent that control of the situation is indeed within his grasp. If Strength shows up in representation of another person, it most likely symbolizes a friend or acquaintance who is incredibly brave or steadfast.

The Strength card can also symbolize general issues as well – especially when it comes to impulse control. It can shine a light on the need to find a creative or clever solution to the problem at hand or it can advise to go about solving the dilemma in such a way that the querent’s ever important honor is not sacrificed in the process. Always it cautions the querent not to give up no matter what the circumstances and to do his best to keep faithful in the knowledge that he will be rewarded for his persistence with success.

The Chariot

The Chariot is the eighth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. Much like the Lovers card before it, the Chariot also has much to do with the realm of the emotions. However, it is important to note that the emotions involved are no longer in their pure, unfettered form anymore. The Chariot is [...]

The Chariot is the eighth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. Much like the Lovers card before it, the Chariot also has much to do with the realm of the emotions. However, it is important to note that the emotions involved are no longer in their pure, unfettered form anymore. The Chariot is about the productivity and power that comes about once one learns to control, channel, and tame his emotions and instincts. Only once you are able to gain mastery over yourself can you then hope to gain control over the world around you or any of the people in it.

The Chariot teaches us that the way to such mastery is through diligent self discipline, making the use of a military symbol for the ideals this card represents incredibly appropriate. Much like the military promotes self control and resiliency through tough tactics so that new recruits can better triumph under pressure, the Chariot shows us the way to achievement and fulfillment through self-control and self-awareness. When we learn the lessons it teaches once and for all, we’re not only better survivors in the face of life’s adversities, but more complete beings as well – ready for anything life can possibly throw at us.

The traditional tarot image of the Chariot depicts a regal male figure riding within the chariot itself. The vehicle itself is usually shown as being pulled by two sphinxes of differing colors, although there are many Chariot images that feature traditional horses instead. The two different color sphinxes symbolize opposing poles – positive and negative, dark and light, et cetera. The fact that the chariot driver has successfully harnessed them and used their innate power to convey himself from where he is to where he needs to be symbolizes the triumph of the human spirit over challenge, adversity, instinct, and irrationality.
 
The image as a whole serves to remind us that although we as humans need our emotions to be our driving force in the world, they are not the productive forces they can be unless they are properly harnessed and put to good use. Instead of giving in to grief, anger, or other strong emotions and letting them consume us, we can channel them into productive activity that makes us better people.

When the Chariot makes an appearance in a tarot spread, it typically signifies the presence of a situation in which similar mastery over one’s emotions and instincts is called for. The querent should not allow his energy to be wasted by self-pity, idleness, or fear. Instead, he should understand that he is being asked to stand up, take control of himself for the better, and soldier on into the future with his chin up.
 
The Chariot can also symbolize generalized concepts related to its overall meaning such as motivation, perseverance, and steadfastness. However, it is important to note that as is the case with anything, there is a shadow side to such things. The querent should be careful to make sure that he doesn’t become pig-headed or overly stubborn in his desire to win. He should remember that the Chariot isn’t just about the achievement of victory. It is about achieving it wisely, sanely, and safely as well.

The Lovers

The Lovers card is the seventh card in the sequence of the tarot deck. The image of the Lovers, like the collection of concepts they represent, is a multi-faceted one. On one hand, they do represent the obvious concepts of sexuality and love itself. However, on the other hand, they are also representative of divine [...]

The Lovers card is the seventh card in the sequence of the tarot deck. The image of the Lovers, like the collection of concepts they represent, is a multi-faceted one. On one hand, they do represent the obvious concepts of sexuality and love itself. However, on the other hand, they are also representative of divine love, the potential duality of love, and all the intricacies of a close relationship between any two beings.

As previous figures in the tarot sequence have been closely linked to the concepts of mind, body, and spirit, the Lovers can be said to be in synch with the realm of emotion. Love, of course, is the most powerful and mercurial emotion of all, and as such, it covers much varied ground and can lead to a variety of different results in the grand scheme of a story. While pure, divine, or devoted love can be a driving force that adds purpose and beauty to any life, there are of course, forbidden or dark breeds of love to consider as well. Such things can quickly lead to disaster and downfall. For this reason, the Lovers card can also be said to be about choices, morality, and trust as well as love and emotion.

The tarot image of the Lovers features two human figures as the main focus. Traditionally they are naked to invoke the memory of the very first couple – Adam and Eve – but Lovers cards that feature clothed figures certainly exist as well. Each figure stands in front of a tree – the woman in front of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and the man before the Tree of Life. A serpent is often depicted within the branches of the Tree of Knowledge as well, suggesting the lovers we see are as yet in their purest form – innocence before the fall and the subsequent corruption. In the background, the sun shines behind a beneficent, angelic figure who looks down upon the scene unfolding below.

The figures of the Lovers are not simply stand-ins for the idea of various forms of love. They are also heavily associated with choices of a moral character. This is highlighted by the way the figures are seemingly mediated by the angelic figure in the middle even as they each stand in front of trees that represent truly life-changing choices. The choice involved could be seen as a simple choice between something positive and something more sinister. It could also be choice that will prove a great test to one’s principles or higher ideals.
 
When the Lovers make an appearance in a tarot reading, they can certainly be said to represent an actual couple depending on their position. This can either be a couple in a very straight-forward sense – two people in a close relationship… probably a sexual relationship, but not necessarily. The Lovers can also appear when representing a duality within the self of some sort. The surrounding cards will offer much more information as to the specifics of what type of pairing is most likely.

When not standing in for a coupling, the Lovers quite often suggest a choice of some sort – most likely a choice that carries moral undertones. The most common interpretation is a choice between a spouse and a lover, but the choice could also be between rational sense and emotion, what’s best for the querent and what’s best for his or her family, and so forth.

The Hierophant

The Hierophant is the sixth card in the tarot deck, as well as the third and final part of the body-mind-spirit triad. As the Emperor and Empress represent body and mind respectively, so the Hierophant represents the eternal realm of the spirit. The number traditionally associated with him is five. Many tarot readers feel this [...]

The Hierophant is the sixth card in the tarot deck, as well as the third and final part of the body-mind-spirit triad. As the Emperor and Empress represent body and mind respectively, so the Hierophant represents the eternal realm of the spirit. The number traditionally associated with him is five. Many tarot readers feel this represents the four elements plus one more to represent spirit itself.

The Hierophant stands for belief systems – especially religions. In some versions of the tarot, the Hierophant (or Holy Man) is actually replaced by a High Priest or Pope figure for this reason. However it’s important to note that the Hierophant himself is truly any personage who possesses sacred, secret, or profound knowledge. While this can certainly apply to a member of the clergy, the card’s true meaning actually stretches far beyond that. In fact, he can represent entire assemblies of people, as in a religious sect, institution, or community. As such, he teaches the lesson that the needs of the many should always outweigh the needs of the one. Under the Hierophant, we come together as separate entities to work as one toward a common goal.

The Hierophant tarot figure is typically portrayed as a great Holy Man seated between two temple pillars. (Although this set-up is similar to that seen in the High Priestess card, it is important to note that these are not the same pillars, nor is it the same temple.) His left hand holds the triple cross while his left hand forms the established sign of esotericism. At his feet are two keys positioned in such a way that they cross over each other, a representation of the role religion and belief play in the grand scheme of things. In many depictions, two priests also kneel at the Hierophant’s feet. The image as a whole not only stands for religion and spirituality itself, but the important role a religious leader fills for the members of his congregation.

Like his predecessor the Emperor, the Hierophant is also very much a teacher. However, the lessons he teaches are not the same in essence. Instead of instructing us to seize control of our lives and take the throne as the Emperor does, the Hierophant shows us the importance of conformity, tradition, and learning from others. While this may sound counterproductive on some levels, it truly is an important lesson to learn. Only by knowing the objectives of a particular group or belief system can we really know whether or not it’s ultimately for us.

When the Hierophant shows up in a tarot reading in representation of someone else, he is often standing in for a mentor or some sort – one who is the head of one organization or another and who hopes to induct you into his fold. This person doesn’t necessarily have to be a religious personage or clergyman though. It could be anyone who holds the keys to a body of knowledge or traditions such as an employer. He can also be someone like a therapist, a professor, or a sponsor.
 
Like most of the cards in the Major Arcana, the Hierophant can also represent the querent himself. In that instance, he may be seen as a reminder of all it means to be a good leader and teacher. He is saying that the solution to your problem is already within your grasp. It may not be a simple solution, but he does let us know that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel that can be reached by using the peace, level-headedness, and practicality he himself embodies.