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Death

Death is the fourteenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. However, it is important to note that it does not represent death as human beings normally know or fear it, which is as an ending. What the Death card truly represents is monumental change and rejuvenating metamorphosis. Many people forget that death really [...]

Death is the fourteenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. However, it is important to note that it does not represent death as human beings normally know or fear it, which is as an ending. What the Death card truly represents is monumental change and rejuvenating metamorphosis. Many people forget that death really is a transformation from one state of being to the next. Nothing ever truly ends as people have a tendency to fear.

The first step involved in getting in touch with the lessons taught by Death is acknowledging the very fact that not only is change an inevitable part of life, but it is a beneficial one as well. Death is merely the most sweeping and existence-altering change of all. It marks our natural and inevitable transition into the next world and the Death card itself serves to remind us that existence continues always no matter how catastrophic the change. It is also important to note that death is also a part of life that comes along with no discriminations or prejudices. Each and every one of us will die one day regardless of our social station, our religion, or our creed. In this way, death is also an equalizer that reminds us of how much we all truly have in common with each other at our core level.

The traditional tarot image used to represent Death serves to reinforce all of these ideas and concepts. The figure of Death is represented by a mysterious horseman riding atop a pale steed. In his hand, he bears a black banner upon which is emblazoned a white rose meant to represent life. He rides unarmed with any weapon, yet in many tarot depictions, several figures are shown falling in the path before him, awaiting the inevitable change that the horseman is sworn to bring about for them. The landscape through which he rides is a vista of the entire world of the spirit at large and includes the sun, which in this instance symbolizes immortality.

The appearance of Death in a tarot spread can under the right circumstances signal an actual death, but this is in fact not typically the case. Death in almost every circumstance is the herald of an imminent change, transformation, or important rite of passage in the life of the querent. It’s appearance can mean the end of an old, outdated way of thinking, a lifestyle that has been outgrown, or any other situation that is no longer serving the querent as well as it ought. Whatever the situation at hand may be, the querent can no doubt be certain that the time is definitely ripe for serious consideration in regards to discarding it so that a brighter, more productive future can begin.

In many cases, the changes and evolutions signified by the Death card will not be easy to accept. However, their coming is most likely completely beyond the querent’s control and ultimately of benefit, so he or she would be best advised to go along with them and remember that no matter how something may feel at the time, nothing is truly ever destroyed or lost. When one door closes, another is sure to open through which the beautiful vista of the future will be seen soon enough.

The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man is the thirteenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. However, the Hanged Man has nothing to do with matters of life and death as one may be inclined to think at first glance. Instead, he deals with the realms of stasis and suspension, as well as the benefits that can [...]

The Hanged Man is the thirteenth card in the sequence of the tarot deck. However, the Hanged Man has nothing to do with matters of life and death as one may be inclined to think at first glance. Instead, he deals with the realms of stasis and suspension, as well as the benefits that can be attached to such concepts when they are fully and willingly embraced as part of the natural progression of things.

Getting in touch with the wisdom the Hanged Man offers us cannot be achieved by searching far and wide out in the world. It can only be found by looking within.  The lesson he teaches is also one of the type that is easy enough to understand from the outside looking in, but sometimes difficult to actually apply to oneself. Grasping it successfully not only calls for deep introspection and development of self awareness of the highest order, but also the relinquishing of one’s inherent desire for control over a given situation. In this way, the Hanged Man’s lesson is also a lesson of sacrifice. A man must first be willing to let go of what he has before he can finally get what he wants.

The traditional tarot image attached to the concept of the Hanged Man shows him hanging suspended upside down from a Tau cross made of wood. His legs are positioned in such a way to form a fylot cross as well. Around the Hanged Man’s head is a nimbus of light that suggests a state of enlightenment, although many tarot readers alternatively feel it represents martyrdom. It is extremely important to note that the expression on the figure’s face is not one of tortured suffering or pain, but rather one that suggests patience and a mind at peace with the situation at hand. It is also noteworthy that the wood of the cross he is suspended from is not dead, but living, green, and growing. The image as a whole is undoubtedly one that deals with suspension. However it is suspension within the confines of life itself and has nothing to do with death. In this way, both the image and the concept it represents is reminiscent of the story of the Norse god Odin who hung suspended from the Tree of Life for nine days in order to gain powerful knowledge.

When the Hanged Man makes an appearance in a tarot spread, he signals a period of time that will be largely characterized by meditation, sacrifice, prophecy, or introspection. Enlightenment in regards to the situation at hand can only be achieved by letting go of preconceived expectations and giving up the need for control. Once this is accomplished, the way forward will quickly become clear and the solution to the querent’s dilemma will naturally present itself. A profound change in world view or personal approach could also be a possible result upon resolution of the querent’s dilemma.

Alternatively, the Hanged Man can herald the coming of a time when life will slow down and become static for a while. This would be a time during which the querent should take some much needed time out to rest and reflect before moving on to the next big thing. As is the case with interpretation of the meaning of any of the tarot cards, the surrounding cards and positioning of the Hanged Man in the spread will lend more insight into the specifics of the situation being foretold.

Justice

The twelfth card of the tarot deck is that of Justice. However, this is not the justice we know from our human courtrooms, judges, and laws. This is the Justice of the universe at large and all the higher powers that be. The laws set forth by these powers dictate that even if life does [...]

The twelfth card of the tarot deck is that of Justice. However, this is not the justice we know from our human courtrooms, judges, and laws. This is the Justice of the universe at large and all the higher powers that be. The laws set forth by these powers dictate that even if life does not deliver what we want or what we believe we need, it always delivers exactly what we deserve.

Each person walking the face of the earth is subject to the laws of karma and eventually reaps what he sows, making it ever more important to sow good things and treat others as we would wish to be treated ourselves. By this doctrine, life in essence is always fair no matter what other schools of thought may lead you to believe. Justice can also be said to represent the basic law of cause and effect. For every action, there will be an equal and appropriate reaction sooner or later. The fruits of the choices a person makes today may not ripen tomorrow, a year from now, or even ten years from now, but rest assured that they will do so sooner or later. It is also important to note that according to the laws of Justice, all of a person’s actions will not only have an effect ultimately speaking, but will also have an effect upon the originator of the action in one way or another.

The traditional tarot image attached to the Justice card shows us a robed, regal-looking figure seated between two pillars. This composition is, of course, reminiscent of other Major Arcana cards that touch on the concepts of divine knowledge, power, and law as well (such as the High Priestess). In one hand, the figure holds a scale to represent balance. In the other, there is a sword to represent the upholding of that balance. Behind the throne on which the figure sits is a curtain that is said to conceal the mysterious workings of the universe that will ultimately bring about the inevitable result of every action and decision we make. This image in its entirety reminds us not only of the way things work, but also of the inescapability of the system. No one is capable of pulling the wool over the eyes of the universe and will ultimately receive his or her just desserts.

When Justice makes an appearance in a tarot spread, the querent should take it as a reminder of the basic laws that it represents. The actions of the past and present will always bear fruit in the future… always – and they are about to do so at some point in the not so distant future. Whether the querent has been sowing good or bad will ultimately determine what results can be expected.

It should also be seen as a call to the querent to seek balance in his or her life in general. Adjustments of some sort are necessary. Perhaps a change in diet or routine is in order for the betterment of overall health. Perhaps the cards will point the way to an adjustment in a business partnership, friendship, or marriage. Anything is possible and the surrounding cards and positioning of Justice will help add detail to the overall picture.

Some also believe that when applied to more everyday matters, Justice can represent actual court cases, legal proceedings, contracts, agreements, and other things of this nature. While it is true that Justice never promises us what we want or even what we need, it does promise us that the outcome of the affair will be just and deserved. Of this at least the querent can rest assured.

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.

The Emperor

The Emperor is the fifth card in the tarot deck’s traditional sequence. Like his predecessor the Empress, the Emperor represents one third of the body-mind-spirit triad. (The Empress represents all related to the body, while the Emperor represents the next step in that sequence – the mind.)  The number associated with him is four, which [...]

The Emperor is the fifth card in the tarot deck’s traditional sequence. Like his predecessor the Empress, the Emperor represents one third of the body-mind-spirit triad. (The Empress represents all related to the body, while the Emperor represents the next step in that sequence – the mind.)  The number associated with him is four, which is fitting because he stands for stability, rationality, discipline, and good sense – all qualities traditionally associated with the number four.

Much as the Empress can be said to be the eternal mother, the Emperor can similarly be described as a corresponding father figure. He is a figure that commands authority and shows his regard for his children by establishing and enforcing rules, structure, and order – always in a manner that is fair and just, of course. While it’s only natural for parts of us to balk at the idea of rules, it’s also important to realize that we need them in order to keep things moving along in the right direction. The Emperor can also be described as a universal teacher of many things – especially when it comes to life lessons dealing with the realms of discipline and maturity. He may be a stern father, but he is also one who knows what’s right for us and has our best interests at heart.

The traditional way to portray the Emperor is as a crowned monarch, because he is definitely that – monarch of the whole world and all of humanity, to be exact. In his hands he holds the scepter and orb, the traditional symbols of imperial royalty. He sits regally upon a stone throne, the arms of which feature ram’s heads to symbolize might, authority, and stoicism. He is dressed in the opulent manner which one would expect of such a figure – in fine, flowing robes that are both beautiful and stately at once. He is an imposing figure that demands respect and allegiance.

The Emperor is not only a wise ruler and fatherly representative. He can also be said to represent the actual concepts of reason, sense, power, and stability. Many tarot experts also believe that when considered in tandem with the Empress, the two together represent the concept of marriage.

When the Emperor makes an appearance in a tarot spread, he is almost always standing in for a boss, a father, a leader, or some other personage whom the querent sees as an authority figure. He can also sometimes represent the querent, of course. This is most likely to happen if said querent is in a position of authority him or herself. The Emperor may also appear in instances where someone like a king, president, or other world leader is being shown within the scope of the spread.

The appearance of the Emperor can mean a number of things depending on the surrounding cards and their positions. One possibility is a directive to gain control over one’s life whether it’s in regards to romance, career, personal health, or even temper. This wouldn’t be the time to let other people make your decisions for you or to give into the whims of someone else. It’s the time to step up and be firm. The appearance of the Emperor (especially if he is clearly standing in for the querent) can also be a signal for said querent to ask himself a few questions as to how he really feels about a position of leadership he may hold. It may be that a change of pace or the complete relinquishing of the position is in order.