Seeds of Change: The Aces (Part I: The Ace of

Swords)Aces in Tarot are, they say, gifts from heaven. When

you get an Ace in a reading, the inclination is to feel like it's a few
days before Christmas and you just know a gift is coming. What is it?
The anticipatory reaction is understandable, but not always
warrented. While Aces are powerful cards, they are also the lowest
number in the suit. Just like with regular playing cards, depending
on the game, an Ace can win a game or turn out inconsequential. The
English word 'ace' comes from the Old French word 'as' (from Latin
'as') meaning 'a unit', from the name of a small Roman coin. It
originally meant the side of a die with only one mark, before it was a
term for a playing card. Since this was the lowest roll of the die, it
traditionally meant 'bad luck' in Middle English, but as the ace is
often the highest playing card in many modern games, its meaning
has changed to mean 'high-quality, excellence'. So which is it? Does
the Ace in Tarot herald something magnificent? Or is it just an
inconsequential blip on the screen of life? Well, both. Or neither. It
depends?
The Tarot Ace that reflects this ambivalence the most is the Ace of
Swords. Its equivalent in playing card decks is the Ace of Spades. In
Robert Louis Stevenson's story "The Suicide Club" (1878), the Ace of Spades functions as the "sign of
death" within a secret society whose members commit "suicide" by submitting to be killed, if they
draw the Ace of Spades from a pack of 52 cards during a club meeting, by another member drawing
the Ace of Clubs. The Ace of Spades was also used as "the death card" in the Vietnam War. It was
erroneously believed that Vietnamese ancient traditions held the symbolism of the spade to mean
death and ill-fortune. The soldiers were quick to pick up this misconception, and in a bid to scare
away Viet Cong soldiers without firefight, it was common practice to leave an Ace of Spades on the
bodies of killed Vietnamese and even to litter the forested grounds and fields with the card.
The sword is obviously a deadly weapon and can, literally, kill. However, in Tarot, the suit represents
the activity of the mind, the mental processes and the communication that thoughts bring about. It
does represent conflict, too, so in a very real way swords can be deadly, though not in a physical
sense. When the Ace of Swords is present in a tarot reading, it usually heralds an "Aha!" moment, a
flash of insight that separates truth from illusion. This double-edged blade can hurt in that moment
of clarity, when truth is laid bare before you, cutting away a possibly cherished, but untrue, notion.
While the truth can hurt, and if the one wielding the sword is barbaric and boorish it can hurt more
than needed, it is also enlightening and can put one on a path of a new way of thinking and seeing
things, because if what you formerly held is shown to be untrue, then there are adjustments to be
made and learning to be done. That is the beginning this Ace signifies: a newfound insight that sets
you on a path of clearing the way for new understanding and knowledge and truth.
Aces in tarot represent the seed of force needed to bring something new into creation. That's
why "Eureka!" moments are so powerful and often life changing. They have to be, or you'd never
notice them. Epiphanies wouldn't be so "Ta da!" without the powerful, enlightening force behind them
that changes the way you view something and then results in change
in your actions. And with the Ace of Swords, something is cut away,
hence the "death" imagery, old ways of thinking die off in an instant
as you learn something new that cancel them out.
But I'm being dramatic here. I've certainly had Ace of Swords
epiphanies and they are wondrous indeed, but sometimes the Ace
isn't all that. Sometimes it simply means the bank calls and tells you
they made a mistake on your statement and it wasn't in your favor
and now they've fixed it, so you've been operating on the notion of
$20 extra bucks in your account and now you have to adjust for that.
No, nothing is going to bounce, but it's a mental adjustment. You
might make a mental note to keep your own books instead of relying
on bank statements for the truth from now on. It could be telling you
to speak the unvarnished truth to a friend. It's a risk, it could change
things between you, but it's imperative to the friendship that you do.

So yeah, be careful where you point that thing. It's sharp. And pointy.
I also see the Ace of Swords in a kind of video game analogous way of "Levelling Up." As theTarot of
the White Cats depicts the knighting of a cat, it represents an accomplishment of a sort. As we grow in
understanding, the sword ace brings us up to a new level of awareness and with it the beginning of
new responsibilities: to act in accordance with this new level of understanding. (Witness the cyclical
nature of the suits of tarot, from 1-10 in each suit, always at work in our lives in various ways.) When
you "level up" in a game, you often find yourself in the role of "beginner" again, somewhat at a
disadvantage, in a new realm that you have to explore. You have the advantage of taking with you all
the treasures and tools you gained on the levels you have already passed through, but on this level
you don't yet have a clue.
Therefore, the Ace is powerful, yes, and it's a gift, yes, but it is only a beginning after all. It's the raw
material of creation, but it is not the product. It is the new idea, the insight, the impulse to change,
but it is not the change itself. You still have to do the work in order to get to the next level. So while
the Ace may very well be a gift from the divine powers that be, if it lies unused in the box, what good
is it to you?

Tarot by the Numbers: The Two's

I have a very conflicted relationship with numbers. I'm hopeless with
math but I can do symbolism. That may seem a contradictory statement,
for what are numbers but abstract symbols themselves? I can grasp the
conceptual meaning of the symbols easily, but for some reason I will add
2 + 2 and come up with 5. Hey, that's just me thinking outside the box,
ok? Numbers and their symbolism inform a great deal about the meaning
of tarot, and there is very little, if any, mathematical skill necessary to
understand them. While the suits each have their attributes, so do each
number.
There's a whole field of spiritual and divinatory study called Numerology that goes well beyond the realm of
tarot. However, tarot numerology differs in some ways from what has been developed in Numerology
numerology. In Tarot, we primarily keep the symbolic meanings of the numbers in mind as a reference to
sorting out the meaning of the cards. Understanding these symbolic numerical associations becomes more
critical when working with non-scenic pip decks, such as the Marseilles-based decks, where pictured on the
card may simply be 4 cups or 7 swords and not much else to go on.
The Major Arcana is numbered 0-21 and the Minor Arcana is numbered 1 (or Ace)-10 in each of the four
suits. Each of the Minor numbers are associated with a Major. For example, as we take a look at the Two's in
Tarot, they all connect in some way to the Major Arcana II -- The High Priestess. Each number also has a
planetary association, so there's some crossover with Astrology here as well.
The number two first and foremost represents dualism which is the existence of two fundamental principles,
concepts, things or energies, that are in opposition to each other. It is where thought begins to actually take
form. Human minds are geared towards seeing the relationships between two things, usually opposite things.
We often express ourselves in this way, using opposing concepts to get at what we mean. We say something is
good/bad, light/dark, male/female, sweet/sour. It is said we could not know happiness if not for having
experienced its opposite, sadness. So, in that way two's represent that dichotomy of thought that allows
coherent expression of the initial idea begun in the Aces.
The planetary association of the number two is the Moon. This is also the heavenly body associated with The
High Priestess, Major Arcana II, isn't that nifty? The High Priestess is the feminine energy that acts as

mediator between two opposing things. She is all about the duality thing. She is able to find peace in
ambivalence, between holding two opposite ideas at once and recognizing that they can both be true. She
doesn't live in Either/Or Land, but in the margins, the grey areas, the I-can't-quite-put-my-finger-on-it-butI-know-it's-true places. Each of the four two's in the Minor Arcana show an aspect of this dualism and
mediation between two things.
Because the High Priestess is passive energy, the two's in tarot often show a time of waiting, deciding,
balancing, weighing, discerning. There is a time of recognition in the two's, of seeing what is the same and
what is different, of comparing and contrasting. The focus of this time depends on the suit designation.
The Two of Swords represents the attempt to reconcile two opposing thoughts or arguments. There are some
people who are very black and white in their thinking. They are uncomfortable with the ambivalence and
processing that is required to sift through the opposing sides and arguments and simply decide their position
based on what they already think and have previously decided. For them, the time spent in the two of swords
place is brief. Others spend a long time weighing the arguments, considering the evidence, deliberating,
debating, and thinking about how to reconcile the two rather than choose either/or. This also brings up the
association of the two's with Justice. In many decks Justice is numbered eleven which, when reduced (1 + 1 =
2 -- ohmygod, there is math involved!) is two. The Two of Swords is more closely associated with Justice
because of the imagery of the sword. As Justice also wields a sword, deliberates, balances, and decides, so the
Two of Swords represents that decision-making time.

While the two's often show a division between opposing things, they can also show a cooperation and
mutuality between two things, people, or ideas. The Two of Cups in particular portrays this aspect of the
meaning of the number two very well. The Two of Cups displays the image of a couple in love, but it by no
means is limited to this one experience. The Two of Cups represents the merging of emotions. One might say
it reconciles opposite emotions and brings them together so rather than compete with one another, they
compliment each other. To use the example of the new lovers, the competing emotions of nervousness and
comfortableness co-exist in the meeting. Butterflies in the stomach flutter while at the same time you feel
drawn to one another. Emotional discomfort plus emotional attraction. Likewise, the image shows two
people, often a man and a woman, opposites, merging together and drinking from each others cups.
Therefore, the Two of Cups represents the harmonious union of two opposites on an emotional (cups) level.

The Two of Wands is in some ways similar to the Two of Swords in that there is a decision-making process
going on, but with Wands the decisions are more action-oriented. The choices are fairly equal but one will
yield the best result. The problem is,
you can't have it both ways. You have to
decide which action or course you will
throw your efforts behind else not
accomplish anything at all. There is a
sense of power in the Two of Wands, of
confidence and ability, unlike the Two
of Swords which seriously does not
want to make the decision but would
rather maintain a tenuous peace
between opposing arguments. The Two
of Wands recognizes, eyes wide open,

that the choice must be made and it's just a matter of feeling which one you're more passionate about, which
action will yield the best result, which idea has more potential. The friction between them is usually because
they're both good ideas but because they are opposing, you only have the resources to achieve one of them.

The Two of Pentacles brings in the aspect of the two that is balance between opposites. Like the Two of
Swords, the figure isn't interested so much in choosing between the options but trying to balance them
indefinitely. This might be the person juggling two jobs, or full-time work and school. His hands are most
definitely full and it's not an easy task to balance these two things, but both are priorities to him so he's giving
it his best tap dance to keep both things in the air. Conflicts are a given, but he's confident he can manage
them.
However, two's are unstable and tense with polarity. They represent the small beginnings, not
accomplishment. They are the time between beginning and taking the first steps to actual creation. Two's are
a time when you think a lot, feel a lot, make up your mind, but nothing substantial has yet happened. Also,
there's only so long you can remain in that tense state. Burning the candle at both ends, as in the Two of
Pentacles, or sitting in the middle of an idealogical fence, as in the Two of Swords, has a rather short
duration. The Two of Cups loses its shiny rather quickly as anyone who has fallen in love can attest to, and
the eagerness of the go-getter in the Two of Wands won't waste too much time planning because he wants to
see his ideas come to fruition.

Tarot by the Numbers: The Three's

For some reason, three's seem a little hard to grasp in Tarot. From the
delightful Three of Cups to the painful Three of Swords, what do they
have in common? It helps me to imagine a three-legged stool. From the
tenuous decision-making and pondering of the two's, something begins
to manifest in the three's. While a two-legged chair wouldn't support
one's weight without tipping over, the addition of that third leg allows the
seat to support something as solid as your posterior. While the type of
manifestation is dependent upon the suit, what is common among the
three's is that first manifestation of something real, supportive, and true.
The Major Arcana each of the three's echo is The Empress. This is related to her procreativity and abundance.
She is the generative force behind bringing life and creation to fruition and the three's each show a
manifestation of that creative energy by the coming together of various
elements in due measure. Astrologically, Jupiter and Venus are represented
by the number three and Venus is the planet of The Empress as well. Venus
rules our feminine side as well as relationships and the things we desire.
Three's also represent manifesting that which we desire through working
with others, bringing things into relationship with one another to produce
and create something.
Jupiter is numbered three in Vedic astrology and rules the balance of past
karma, religion, philosophy, knowledge and issues relating to offspring.
Interesting then that the theology of many major religions is dependent on
the number three: Judaism boasts the three Patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac,

and Jacob. Christianity has the Trinity, the union of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost into one Godhead.
Hinduism has Trimurti and the Ayyavazhi Trinity. A devout Muslim tries to make a pilgrimage to all three holy
cities in Islam: Mecca,Medina, and Jerusalem. There is the Wiccan "Rule of Three," the "Triple Goddess" of pagan
religions, and the Greek concept of the "Three Graces."
Speaking of that, three's in tarot do represent a trinity. The word "trinity" comes from "trinitas", a Latin
abstract noun that means "three-ness", "the property of occurring three at once" or "three are one." Therefore
three's convey the concept of three distinct entities coming together and working or operating as one.
The Three of Swords is often seen as one of the "bad" cards in tarot, and with cards such as theRobin Wood, a
derivation of the Rider-Waite-Smith version, it's no wonder. There's an overriding atmosphere of sadness
and pain to this image that seems more compatible with the cups suit. However, in the non-scenic pip decks
where one will often see a design of curved pairs of swords, when an odd number of swords is present, the
final one is often drawn straight, piercing the design created by the curved pairs. Symbolically, this suggests a
decisive thrust that breaks the stalemate seen in the Two of Swords. Therefore, the Three of Swords may
signify a decisive, perhaps aggressive or painful, resolution to a dilemma. Swords, being of the realm of
communication and thought, do affect our feelings and as such the image of the pierced heart on the RWS
versions of the card show this coming together of three statements, arguments, issues, or ideas that reveal a,
sometimes painful, truth. However, I have also seen this card to bring out that other notion of three:
resolution and reconciliation. The third sword is the necessary third element that makes the truth real to the
seeker and the heart can now reconcile itself to the reality and truth of the situation. The third sword actually
brings a sort of relief this way, a breaking of the tension created by the opposing truths indicated in the two
so that healing and wholeness is possible.
The Three of Cups seems to be quite the opposite of the Three of Swords, however the trinity aspect can be
clearly seen in both. The Three of Cups often pictures a delightful scene of three women enjoying one
another's company and the abundance of the work of their hands. This card often reminds one of the Triple
Goddess and Three Graces iconography and as such brings to mind the wholeness of creation and the joy and
happiness of human interaction and charity. It reflects the Empress in the feminine aspect as well as in the
natural abundance of the earth. The union of the three figures evidences the trinity as they are one together
in spirit and in the dance. There is another similarity between the Sword and Cups
three's in the reconciliation concept. Cups, symbolizing emotions, can represent
difficult emotions as well as positive ones. Therefore, when difficulties arise
between two people, be they romantically involved, business associates, or friends,
sometimes a third party can be extremely useful in bringing them together. Also,
this card can represent the stage in a new relationship where the couple begins to
socialize as a couple with others, bringing their relationship to a new level
and making it more solid and "real" as others recognize them as a distinct
entity together. It's the recognition and affirmation of society that creates
the more fleshed out identity of the couple as a unit.
The Three of Wands, especially in the RWS based
decks, can sometimes confuse as the image is often of
a sole figure on a hilltop with three wands looking out
to sea. The energy of the three's is not so readily seen
in the imagery. Wands represent creative energy and
the action to produce results. With this in mind, and
remembering the planning efforts of the Two of

Wands, the figure in the Three of Wands is evidencing the results of both the planning of the two and the
putting energy and action behind those plans resulting in an outcome of success. It also suggests the creative
cooperation of a small group of focused individuals toward a common goal, even though only one man
appears on the card. The efforts are represented by the three wands. He is leaning on his, and the other two
show the combined efforts of others. Together, all three lend the energy and support needed to see the "ship
come in." Therefore, the Three of Wands evidences those attributes of the three's of creativity, trinity, and
manifestation through that singular quality of the wands suit: creative visualization and energetic effort.
The Three of Pentacles shows the results of the energetic balancing of the Two of Pentacles through which the
seeker is able to achieve mastery over at least one field of endeavor that brings tangible reward. While the
juggler in the Two may be burning his candle at both ends for a time, it brings about the accomplishment of
the Three where others now seek out his expertise and skill for cooperative work. Many decks picture this
card as a Master Craftsman at work, often with others, but just as often he or she is featured alone at work.
However, the building blocks of his success are seen in the time spent trying to balance, say, work and school,
or money and time, depending. This three brings in a tangible third element that brings financial or
structural stability to one's efforts. It's by no means a time to relax on one's laurels, however. This card
indicates, as a three, a "first completion" from your efforts, not a final accomplishment, as if there really was
any such thing. Even the Major Arcana XXI The World which suggests a major accomplishment can be
reduced to three. This indicates that we're never really done learning, creating, growing, succeeding, and
accomplishing. Keep at it as success breeds success.

Tarot by the Numbers: The Four's

I've always liked the number four. Not sure why, but I do. Fours have a
certain nice sound to them and they're orderly and you can pair it off into
two two's. It's just a nice number. And it's true that fours represent
stability, orderliness, practicality, patience, responsibility and all those
nice things, so it's no wonder our dear Mr. Emperor of the Major Arcana
is the supreme IV of Tarot. Fours are very solid and dependable, like a
square. In fact, the word, "square" has come to mean things like "fair,
proper, honest, and straightforward." We say we got a "square deal" if it
was an honest exchange, a "square meal" is a proper one and if you've won something, I hope you won it "fair
and square."
Fours are associated with the planets Saturn and Earth, and with the astrological sign Cancer because Cancer
is the natural ruler of the fourth house. Saturn is known in astrology to be
the planet that restricts and limits, a taskmaster which brings strength
through discipline and planning. It is also the planet of the Emperor, the
tarot taskmaster and disciplinarian and sometime control freak. Four is
essentially the number of our earthly existence: the four elements of earth,
air, fire, and water; the four seasons; the four points of the compass; the four
phases of the Moon. Even our days are divided into four time periods: dawn,
day, evening, and night. The Tetragrammaton is the four-letter name of God.
The four Matriarchs (foremothers) of Judaism are Sarah, Rebeccah, Leah,
and Rachel. The Four Species (lulav, hadass, aravah and etrog) are taken as one
of the mitzvot on Sukkot. Four is the sacred number of the Zia, an indigenous
tribe located in the United States State of New Mexico. In Christianity

groups of four in the New Testament include The Four Creatures of Revelation and The Four Horsemen of
the Apocalypse. Also from the New Testament we have the four gospels written by the four evangelists;
Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Three of them are often represented by animals; the ox for Luke, and the
eagle for John, and the lion for Mark. The origin of the animal representations is likely Ezekiel 1, 5: ". . . of
the midst there came the likeness of four living creatures. . . And . . . they had the likeness of a man. . . . And
every one had four faces . . . the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: . . . the face of an ox
on the left side; . . .they four also had the face of an eagle." You can see these animals on many renditions of
the World card in tarot decks, signifying completeness and universal blessing.
The four suits of tarot which align to the four elements also speak of a completeness in the deck itself, in that
it pretty much covers all the bases of earthly life. In tarot, when you see the number four you can know
something has been established for sure. It's not a period of growth as much as a time when you know you
have grown something solid. It may be time for a brief respite or celebration, to regather your energies to
move onward.
The Four of Swords often shows a knight or warrior lying in vigil, with the four swords immobile and
awaiting his next venture. Moving from the often harsh or painful realization of the Three of Swords, the
Four of Swords takes a time out to allow the truth of the revelation to sink in and become part of the reality of
the person's mind. This is one reason the Four of Swords is often seen as a rehabilitative card and can
represent time in recovery such as in a hospital or even a brief time in jail. As the mind tends to be ever
active, even while sleeping, it's difficult to imagine a time when there is no activity whatsoever. Let's not be
literal here. No activity would mean brain dead. What this card is alluding to is a time when you take a break
from obsessively thinking about an issue or problem, or when the conundrum has been solved (by the three,
probably) and there just isn't any more to be said or thought about on the issue. At least for now. The Four of
Swords brings a time of peace, a quieting of the mind so that maybe some other senses can speak and be
heard. Whereas in the Two of Swords the individual is trying to quiet her emotions and other senses so as to
only hear her own thoughts, the Four quiets those thoughts now. A truth has been told, a quandry has been
settled, a realization has been made manifest.
The Four of Cups is a different kind of time out. This card often feels uncomfortable because the individual
on the card usually looks like he's just not happy or is dissatisfied with just about everything. Being cups, it is
dealing with emotions and relationships, and this guy is taking time to reevaluate his own feelings. He's
sorting through what he has in his life, relationship-wise, feelings-wise, and is coming up rather empty. He's
just not at all sure what he wants. Often a cup can be seen offered out of the
blue and he seems unaware or unwilling to accept this offer. As the four
stems from the three, it is a natural rebound response to the abundance of
the Three of Cups. The fullness of emotions
and cooperative relationship seen in the
three has him pulling away for time to
himself and his own emotions. While fours
may appear to be a time of little or no
activity, just like the guy in the Four of
Swords is not brain dead, neither is this
guy numb emotionally. There really is a lot
going on, but it's under the surface. You
know that little hourglass on your
computer that flips around?
Processing...processing...processing. That's

what happens in the fours and in this case it's emotional processing. On a very mundane level, he's had
enough of others, the houseguests have overstayed their welcome and he just needs a break. On a deeper
level, it could mean a time of really scrutinizing how one feels in a romantic relationship and realizing it isn't
meeting one's emotional needs but being unsure what exactly to do about it. The relationship may feel a bit
stagnant and boring after the excitement of the two and the high of the three and the realization that he farts
in bed and she picks her nose is settling in.

The Four of Wands is a bit more lively for a four. That's because it is wands, after all. Still air and water you
can understand, but still fire? Not unless it has gone out and then it isn't fire anymore, is it? The Four of
Wands represents a time out as well, but a time out for a party. It's often seen as celebratory and a time when
congratulations are in order. As the Three of Wands brings completion to one's first efforts in an endeavor,
the Four of Wands allows for those involved in the cooperative effort to relax and enjoy the fruits of their
labor, to congratulate one another on their accomplishment, to dance and eat and drink and just have some
fun. For this reason, this card is associated with home, establishing a home, housewarmings, wedding and
baby showers, christenings, wedding receptions, or just a fun get together with friends. Often readers will see
this card as someone moving house, but it's after the fact. The person has moved and set up residence
already. The actual moving part would be seen in the Two of Wands (the planning, the researching real
estate) and the Three of Wands (working with agents and movers and financial institutions or even just
getting friends with a U-Haul to help). The four means you need to go shopping for a housewarming gift for
your next visit.
The Four of Pentacles puts a different kind of spin on the stability of the fours. While it is the establishment
of material gain, there is a certain solidity that is a little too settled for one's own good. This four resists
sharing and giving because it fears change. Well, if there's anything constant about life it is change, so resist
as one might, you will either change or be forced to face change. There is a lot of hard work that went into
establishing your current sense of security, so it's very understandable why you may want to just sit there on
your four pentacles and resist both gain and loss. You have enough, why risk it? However, nature is about
growth. Stagnant material just sits there and deteriorates. Change happens one way or another. In many
decks this is seen as the "Miser" card. This is someone fearful of losing what he has so he clings ever the
tighter to it. Through the fast-paced Two of Pentacles into the mastering of skills in the Three, the Four just
wants to be left alone with his stuff. He likes this plateau very much, thank you, don't push him to change
anything. In business, in life, if you don't keep up with the pace you're sunk. To get you have to give. In this
four there is a lesson learned about that. Stability is temporary, always. As sure and solid as the earth may
feel under your feet, there are undercurrent and terrestrial shifts you don't know about until the earth cracks
and shakes things down to their foundations. Nothing is entirely solid, so you may as well go with the flow.
Don't be afraid of change. Not changing is much worse.
The thing to remember about the fours is that they are, as all of life's phases,
temporary. Most of the time they represent brief respites, not long
convelescence. These times are absolutely
necessary for growth and change, though it may
seem like nothing much is happening during a
four time. As we take a look at the five's in tarot,
you'll better understand why this regrouping and
recouping time was to your benefit. You're gonna
need all the energy you have to deal with the five's.

Tarot by the Numbers: The Five's

Five's in Tarot are hard. They depict loss, sadness, treachery, arguments,
and difficult times. Or do they? See, that's one of the problems with
scenic pips, such as seen in the Rider Waite Smith decks and their
generative offspring. Fives are complex and often only a few facets of this
number can be illustrated on any given tarot card. The main thing to
remember about the fives is this: Change. Sometimes change is difficult,
which is why, I think, so many of the fives feature challenging scenes. But
five really does encompass so much more than that.
Fives signify adventure, change, freedom, exploration, and expansion. It is the number of the curious, the
experienced, the knowledge seeker and the knowledge teacher, the traveler, and the one with grand
imagination who is child-like and playful. Huh? Five? Yes. The Major Arcana V is the Hierophant, the
knowledge teacher, the experienced one who leads initiates into new experiences and exploration. While we
don't often see him as adventurous, he is the one who ushers fresh new minds and eyes into mysteries. He
guides the adventures that bring change and growth. Often we see him as one too entrenched in rules and
rigidity to possibly be someone who brings freedom, but he is the one who instructs and disciplines so that
the mind and self can be free to explore new things. Think of it this way: if he teaches a person to read, then
how much freer to explore is that person who once could not read books? See? There is a whole lot more to
fives than you may have thought.
Five is the number of the human being. The human body forms a pentagon when arms and legs are out
stretched. The pentagon is endless, sharing the symbolism of perfection and power of the circle. Five is a
circular number as it produces itself in its last digit when raised to its own power. The number five
symbolizes meditation, religion, and versatility. It represents the five senses (taste, touch, smell, sight,
hearing). The five pointed star represents individuality, spiritual aspiration, and education. The planet
associated in numerology with five is Mercury, the planet that rules commerce, education and
communication. Leo is the natural ruler of the fifth house in astrology which has to do with one's creative
self-expression, pleasure and entertainment. It includes all forms of play, gambling, pastimes, hobbies,
romantic relationships, lovers as opposed to partners, and one's attitude towards having fun. This is where
the playful and creative aspect of the number five comes in. This nuance of the five is seen primarily in the
Five of Wands, but it can be considered when looking at the other suits as well.
The Five of Swords is, like all fives, a complex card with many possible interpretive meanings. That's the
nature of five. Changes can be exciting, painful, stressful, or taken in stride. As this card is of the swords suit,
the shake up occuring has to do with thinking, communication, learning, and action stemming from those
things. In some ways it is easier to understand this card if not using a scenic pips deck. Moving from the
mental respite of the four, the five is ready to strike out utilizing the internal realizations brought on by the
three and four. There is conflict here, as illustrated in the odd numbered cards, but also a resolution. How
this change of mind affects the querant is dependent upon the circumstances. However, whether one "wins"
or "loses" in the conflict one thing is certain: this is the moment of decisive change, for better or worse. Here
in the Five of Swords you take your stand, you put forth your truth, your arguments, your newfound as well
as your established beliefs and you let the chips fall where they may. In the scenic pips, one will often find
illustrated an after-battle clean up where a Page is collecting the fallen swords in victory and two other
figures are retreating, reflecting on what has just happened. Changes have occurred for all of them, yet they
portray varying attitudes towards the event. In the Rider Waite Smith card, the far figure appears bereft,
shoulders hunched with his head in his hands. This has been a hard loss for him signifying a dramatic change

that is met with grief. Coming closer to the foreground, the second figure appears less affected by the change.
His head is held high and he appears relaxed and confident, possibly reflecting on what has occurred but not
really negatively affected by his loss. One might say he's being a "good sport" and taking it all in stride. If this
had been a debate, he possibly learned something new and is now thinking on those things and changing his
own mind and position on the matter. The figure in the foreground is the clear winner. He is the one
collecting the swords for his side in the conflict. In some decks he is shown gloating and smirking, but in
others he is merely gazing after the others. One might wonder if this conflict meant loss for the winner, too,
possibly a loss of friendship. He took his stand, he fought with integrity, but now the rift between he and the
others is glaring and wide. Often this card is seen as "no-win" situation for that reason, that no matter who
"wins" there are losses on both sides. Personally, I disagree slightly. I see it as there is much to be gained and
lost on both sides. While it's not exactly a draw, there is a clear "winner," changes have occurred all around
and it really depends on how one integrates this change into one's thinking and life that determines the
ultimate outcome. Sometimes you might be the one with all the swords, the clear winner. Sometimes you will
simply drop your sword and walk away, head held high. Other times you will take it hard and the loss will be
great. Still other times, you may experience all three attitudes in one situation. In this five, there may be no
clear winners or losers, but all involved will have experienced a significant change of mind and circumstances
because of the exchange.

In the Five of Cups, the sadness and grief is palpable. We often cringe when this card appears for its pain is
almost suffocating. However, when looking at just the suit and the number, the card doesn't have to always
mean that the emotional change is grief-producing, though it often is. Our deepest emotional growth is often
a result of those dark emotional times. In this five, the querant has descended from the withdrawal of the
four to reflect more deeply on what he truly feels about what he has done and experienced. With this
reflection in the waters of his emotional life and relationships with others, he regrets much. He feels the loss
of opportunities and connection with those he loved and loves. However, a deep emotional change isn't only
the result of grief and loss, but of life events that mature one's emotions in other ways. I experienced a
profound change in my feelings upon becoming a mother for the first time. In some ways you might say it
was a loss. I would never not be a mother again. I was moved to the heights and depths of emotion with this
experience and it brought deep and permanent changes to the way I feel about myself and others. So,
emotional change, expansion and growth doesn't necessarily have to be accompanied by deep loss,
depression, or grief, though it often is. The result of this change is indicated in the RWS card by the cups that
remain upright and the bridge in the background that takes the figure over the emotional waters and to a
further destination. In the fives one is never stuck but in flux. These are truly snapshots in time, a moment in
the middle of what may seem at the time to be very unstable and chaotic, but which lead to significant
resolution, growth and change.
The Five of Wands is the only five in the pictoral decks that doesn't cause gut-clenching. The scene depicted
is often playful, competitive, somewhat confusing and chaotic, but there are no high stakes here. The youths
are engaging in a mock battle with sticks, attempting to best one another. This card brings out the fun aspect
of the fives and with it the varying attitudes people have towards games of chance, competition, and play.
Wands represent the active, creative force behind our actions, and so can represent our inner attitudes as
well. Some people take games unduly seriously, as if their lives depended on winning. For some, a game is
not just a game and the end result can seriously impact how they feel, think and act. Egos can get wrapped up
in even a sport or supposedly "fun" competition, so the outcome of this game and how it affects each person
may be different depending on one's attitude, drive, and personality. We've all seen how angry someone may
become in the midst of heated competition and we've heard the stories of the sometimes lethal and
dangerous outbursts over what most view as "just a game." So while this five may appear to be nothing more

than, at most, petty bickering or squabbling, it can at times have profound impact depending on the attitudes
of one or more of the players. Again, this card is a snapshot in time taken in the middle of the skirmish. The
change is occuring and what happens ultimately depends on how you play the game.
The Five of Pentacles should also be viewed through the lens of suit and number in order to prevent being
restricted by the sometimes limiting scene of deprivation and poverty on the card. This five represents
change in material circumstances. I think the reason so many decks depict a scene of loss is because it is a
natural consequence of the four's withholding, sometimes greedy stance. However, that's only one possible
consequence of the four. The four is stable and from that stability could, possibly, come change of an
opposite, beneficial nature, depending on the circumstances. To be fair, the scene in the RWS does suggest
that things could turn around for the impoverished subjects. The stained glass window behind them hints
that relief and help is in their reach. Because, again, this is a snapshot in time between the four and the six,
the figures must come to their own solution, their own recognition of need and accept the help offered, which
can be seen in the Six of Pentacles. Yet again, often our greatest times of change and growth come from loss
and the hardship it brings. Many lessons are learned and both internal and external changes occur. The
limitation of the pictoral representation of the RWS-based Five of Pentacles is that it doesn't appear to allow
for a "reversal of fortune" in a positive direction. Imagine someone already scraping the bottom of the barrel
when this card is revealed. Rather than suggesting their material circumstances will become even more dire,
this card is pointing to a material change in those circumstances and if you're at the bottom, the only
direction to go is up. Subtly, this message can be seen in the card image whereas if the figures would simply
literally look up, they would see the church window and its refuge. Yet naturally we tend to focus on the stark
scene of want and misery, the outcast, the rejected ones left out in the cold. Focusing on the symbolic
meaning of the number five allows the reader to understand that this card doesn't have to be taken so
literally, though it certainly can and is often accurately read that way. Still, remembering that fives show a
period in process, in the middle of the mixed up, shifting change allows us to understand that anything can
happen, both positive and negative. Most likely, it will be a combination of both. When it all shakes out and
the dust settles, much will have happened that has brought about a significant change and growth in your
life. The Five of Pentacles focuses more on the external, material changes of the event, but these material
changes often have a huge impact on internal, spiritual changes as well.
Complex, dynamic, confusing, and often chaotic, fives represent the very human life experiences that
produce growth and change on many levels in our lives. They are a force to be reckoned with, to be sure.
Good or bad, they get our adrenaline pumping and give us a heightened sense of attention to the microcosm
of our own lives. Now you might see why the necessity of the fours. If you're in a five time, you may be really
appreciating that you had that brief respite before all hell broke loose.

Tarot By The Numbers: The Sixes

Sixes in tarot are a welcome relief after the disruptive, conflicting
adrenaline-pumping fives. Sixes restore harmony to the chaos, they
offer comfort, nurturing, sympathy, and healing to those battered by
the losses of the fives as well. Sixes are the kudos you deserve, the
solace you need, the balm on your wounds.
Six is the number of the Major Arcana card VI The Lovers and it
represents all the qualities of a secure, loving relationship such as
harmony, beauty, nurturing, love, marriage, family, responsibility,

understanding, sympathy, healing, empathy, perfection, order, duty, comfort, and service. Even its shape is
soft and beautiful, its form is a continuous curve without angle, without line. It is almost a spiral, going
towards infinity.
Six is both the sum (1 + 2 + 3) and the product (1 x 2 x 3) of the first three numbers. It is therefore considered
perfect. In mathematics, a perfect number is one that equals the sum of its divisors (excluding itself), and 6
is the first perfect number in this sense because its divisors are 1, 2, and 3.
In alchemy, the upright triangle represents fire, and the upside-down triangle is the symbol for water.
Together they symbolize the unity of opposites. The hexagram is seen in the Seal of Solomon, and this symbol
is often used in ceremonial magick. It has been adopted as the national symbol of Israel and is a common
symbol in Judaism, as there was a 6-pointed star on the shield that David carried to battle Goliath. Another
version is the Unicursal Hexagramdevised by the Golden Dawn in order to create a six-pointed star symbol in
one movement rather than two. Qabbalistically, six represents Tiphareth, or "beauty."
In Western Astrology, Virgo is the sixth astrological sign of the Zodiac with Mercury being the natural ruler
of the sixth house. A key word for the sixth house would be "duty" and this is also implied in the commitment
shown in The Lovers. However, in Vedic Astology the Moon rules the sixth house and Taurus would be a
natural there. Either way, the sixth house characterizes work, service given, health, diet, hygiene, clothing,
employment and personal habits. There is a lot of giving in the sixes and attempts to create a nurturing,
healthy environment for oneself and especially for others. In numerology, the energy of number six exudes
the qualities of nurturing and caring. It is unselfish, philanthropic, compassionate, and kind. It is intimately
associated with the concept of family, and as such values balance and even-handedness. It offers sympathy,
advice, understanding, and plays the sounding board for commiseration when needed. These qualities can be
seen in each of the four suit sixes in Tarot and their association with both The Lovers and The Devil should
be kept in mind.
The Six of Swords often evokes a sense of sadness with the hunched, shrouded woman and her child alone on
a journey across the water. The ferryman could be her husband or he could just be someone kind enough to
give them safe passage. The movement in this card suggests transition, a time between the changing event of
the five and the start of something different. The swords are carried along with the figures in the boat and so
one could assume that the lessons and thought processes that were acquired in the five are taken with them
on their journey forward. It is during this time that the internal chaos of the five is assimilated but not yet
ready to be put to use. The compassion and giving of the sixes can be seen in the ferryman who is moving the
pair along to where they need to go. One may imagine the conversation between him and the woman, his
heart going out to her in her need and offering to lend a helping hand. As such, when the mind is reeling a bit
from a recent conflict, the six of swords brings a sense of solace and an
understanding that, while you may not be where you want to be yet, there are
others that can help you get there as you sort out the gains and losses in your
mind. The boat glides over the waters, in some places rough and in other
places smooth. The water represents the emotions attendant with the
thoughts and words you carry with you and the boat is the safe place in which
to observe those emotions without being engulfed by them. This card
suggests moving to a better understanding with the help of others listening
and providing a safe emotional space in which you can process. On the other
hand, the flip side to this card may be that the ferryman could be taking you
to a place not of your own choosing, so it advises being careful to whom you
commit your trust to guide you, with whom you share your thoughts. Make

sure you know who it is that is taking you and where.

The Six of Cups is one of the sweetest cards in the deck, often featuring an image of children playing sweetly
or one bestowing a gift upon another. It's a card of innocence and togetherness with no strings attached. My
immediate response to this card is, "Awwww." It evokes a nostalgic wistfulness that transports one to simpler
times and experiences. As such, the card has come to be associated with acts of kindness, blessings, just all
around sweet exchanges with people you have known. These acts come as welcome relief after the abject
emotional loss and grief of the five and make life seem hopeful and sweet again. Its clear association with
children also evokes the sense of nurturing and commitment such as the responsibilities one has for children,
to care for them, to look after their needs, their health and wellbeing. It can sometimes point to someone
behaving childishly or in a naive manner, seeing things through rose-colored glasses and as such has the
potential to bring out the dangerous shadow side of the card associated with The Devil. Much as we might tell
a child not to accept gifts from strangers lest they be lured into danger, this card shows the sometimes blindly
innocent outlook that can possibly lead to trouble. As this card is of the cups suit, it represents emotional
giving and sharing, meeting an emotional need through a random, simple, heartfelt gesture. It denotes
lifelong friendship, re-acquaintance with an old friend, or even the connection you feel with someone from a
past life, if you believe in that.
The Six of Wands applauds a victory and welcomes the conquering hero home. This is the welcome home
parade for the Olympic medalists, the war survivors, or the graduate. Here you find the social rewards for
your efforts and accomplishment, recognition for your achievement. While the image may seem like the
giving is one-sided, it isn't. It's a mutual, reciprocal event. While the one receiving the accolades is having his
day in the sun, the crowd also benefits. Society needs heroes, not to worship, but to inspire. When someone
accomplishes a great thing, it brings hope and injects enthusiasm for life and shows us that we, too, can
aspire to greatness. From the competitive energy of the five, a scene where anything can happen, we now
have a clear victor. Whether he was the actual winner of the game or simply being lauded for his
accomplishment of making it to that level of competition doesn't matter. A hurdle has been crossed and he's
grown from the challenge. The scene usually depicts a horse and rider, and like the Six of Swords, the
movement shows this as a time of transition, not a destination. Therefore, while the kudos are welcome and
give one a boost, they're supposed to propel one forward to the next level.
The Six of Pentacles moves the desperate folks from the five to either a place where they have recouped their
loss to such an extent that, remembering well their own hard times, extend a helping hand to others who are
now in that sorry state, or they have humbled themselves and are now willing to accept the help now offered.
Either way, it shows the result of the change in material circumstance reflected in the five. The lessons of the
loss have been learned, however, as the beneficiary often holds a scale in which he measures his giving. He
knows not to overextend his own
limitations lest he find himself back at
the struggling five himself. In the
exchange we see in the six, both
parties benefit, both are nurtured,
both are blessed. There is something
to that old adage that it is more a
blessing to give than to receive
because it broadens one's heart and
sets into motion a freer flowing
dynamic that was clogged up in the
four. This is part of the reason most

religions urge participants to tithe, to donate, to give of themselves and their resources to those in need. You
get what you give, in a sense. The four may be stable but becomes walled off from human interaction. The five
shows the result of that and with understanding and help, the six is achieved. The shadow of this card can be
seen in a relationship in which dependency is fostered rather than independence and self-sufficiency. As the
Devil can create co-dependency and addiction, so can the one who gives with an agenda. This can especially
be accomplished within this suit when one person is overly dependent on another for material means. While
it more often stands for a needed resource or relationship, it can sometimes hint that the dynamic is unequal
with one person giving more than the other or not on equal footing in some very real way. While the help
would ideally serve to boost the needier one to a more independent level, hence why the giving is "measured,"
the choices lie with the one receiving how best to utilize the gift. So whether you find yourself identifying with
the giver or the recipient, mind how the gift is both given and received. The true nature of a six's intentions
are good, but be aware of the dark potential of its shadow side.
Sixes are really nice. They're sweet and kind and generous and offer necessary times of blessing, especially
after a hard won lesson, victory, or defeat. Within a six we are appreciated and nurtured, made warm and
cozy. Use the time and the blessing wisely and allow it to inspire you to move forward, onwards, and
upwards.

Tarot By The Numbers: The Sevens

Sevens in Tarot once again bring conflict and choice, but
this go round involves less something from the outside
happening to you, but your own actions and impulses create
the change, cause the ruckus, because you have some silly
notion inside you that prompts this. You are the one
agitating here, but not for no reason. Sevens take a stand
based on an unseen but strongly felt inner truth.
Seven is historically a mystical number. Its mythological
and symbolic use is broad and deep. Many different
religions and cultures view seven as spiritual, lucky, and
very significant. It is the number of the philosopher, sage,
and wisdom seeker. When a seven appears in any fashion,
you can understand there is more going on under the
surface that involves the spiritual, faith, and esoteric realms.
Seven is an enigma and as such is difficult to define. It's like the faith it symbolizes: you know it when you
feel it.
Some of its significance stems from the ancient Sumerian and Babylonian civilizations, which identified
seven planets and framed seven days of the week around them. Very early among Middle Eastern peoples,
seven became known as a "perfect" number, symbolic of completeness and goodness. Not "perfect"
mathematically like the six, but symbolizing perfection and as such is often attributed to God. In the Bible,
God rested on the seventh day because his work of creation was complete, entire, perfect. Thus seven
represents this perfect completeness and also it represents rest, as in the rest that is taken from work. It is
from this same word that the Sabbath, the day of rest comes. In Judaism, every seven years a year of Jubilee
is celebrated as well as a Sabbatical year once every seven. The "Counting of the Omer" leading up to the
giving of the Torah is expressed as "7 times 7 weeks." In Christianity, likewise, the number seven continues to
be significant. It is the number of churches of Asia to which the "Book of Revelation" is addressed, the

number of Deadly Sins and Virtues, the number of terraces of Mount Purgatory (one per deadly sin), the
number of sacraments in the Roman Catholic faith, the number of heads of the beast of the Book of
Revelation, and the number of seals on The Book of Life. Jesus says to Peter to forgive seventy times seven
times indicating an unlimited number of times, but also that it is the spiritual thing to do.
The number seven is important to the belief system and cyclical view of time held by the Ismaili Shi'a Muslim
sect, also known as the Seveners. In Sufism, or Islamic mysticism, ascetics model their sevenfold path to
enlightenment after the Prophet Muhammad's Ascension into the seven heavens. The number seven turns up
time and again in rite of passage ceremonies to protect oneself from evil spirits. For example, a wedding
ritual in Pakistan involves seven happily married wives touching the bride's wedding dress to ensure a happy
marriage. It is the number of Archangels according to some systems, the minor symbol number of yang from
the Taoist yin-yang, the number of palms in an Egyptian Sacred Cubit, the number of ranks in Mithraism,
and in Buddhism, Buddha walked seven steps at his birth.
Seven represents the union of man and woman, since the number for women is four and the number for men
is three. The triangle represents woman and the element fire and the square represents man and the element
earth. The esoteric symbol of the merged triangle and square represents the union of spirit (fire) and matter
(earth). Therefore, sevens deal with the esoteric, scholarly aspects of magic and is representative of the
search for understanding through research and the active seeking of esoteric knowledge. Sevens deal with the
activation of imagination and of manifesting results in our lives through the use of conscious thought and
awareness.
So what does all this woo woo spiritual stuff have to do with the Major Arcana VII The Chariot? Though not
immediately apparent in the willful, focused drive and energy of the charioteer, the esoteric symbolism in
The Chariot illustrates the connections. The Chariot is Netzach on the Tree of Life, Victory, the seat of occult
intelligence. Netzach's element is fire. If you draw a line from the charioteer's hands to his crown, and from
hand to hand, you form the upright triangle of Fire. This rests on the square face of the Chariot itself, so that
the complete figure is a triangle atop a square. This symbol is 3 + 4 or 7 and the union of Spirit and Matter.
The number seven represents experience and/or feeling. The experience of the Seven is purely experiential.
This is experience as it happens, before any logical processing takes place. We can associate this feeling with
The Chariot's fast pace and focus as he rushes to his destination. This is a card of doing because of feelings,
both the feelings that prompts one to action and the feelings one experiences while acting. But like the
Chariot, the minor pips in Tarot have their pitfalls, too. Single-minded focus and forceful action can be
incredibly useful and successful but sometimes that Chariot is a bit like a hit and run driver, mowing down
whoever gets in his way. Acting on inner conviction tends to carry with it a very strong impulse and drive but
sometimes also a too-narrow focus and mindset.
The Seven of Swords is a card rather disliked by many readers. This is the "thief" card, the one who steals
your possessions, your ideas, or even your heart. This one is sneaky and calculating. Where's the mysticism in
this card? What's so lofty or spiritual about this guy? Sevens are rather solitary action cards, in that the
seeker is acting upon deeply held beliefs of their own. Our spiritual quest is, ultimately, a solitary one and the
sevens depict figures engaging in thought, action, feelings and ponderings that are unique to themselves. In
this card, the main figure has decided to act upon a plan that he devised and is carrying out on his own.
Whether the action is ultimately just or unjust isn't clear from the card. He could be reclaiming what is
rightfully his, or he could be stealing outright. He is engaging in some dangerous activity, though, which is a
primary reason he's keeping this all to himself. This is sometimes called the Lone Wolf card because of his
acting apart from the group, keeping his thoughts to himself, maybe behaving a bit oddly. He believes he

knows what's best and will do it whether he has support or not from others. He takes his own counsel, wise or
not.
The Seven of Cups is the dreamer card, the fantasies and temptations of what could be dance before the
mind's eye. The emotional pull of these images is strong and can heavily influence one's reality even though
the things themselves are not of this world. These are one's imaginings, even illusions, or possibly delusions.
Sevens are very much about feelings and experiences, so the seven of cups depicts the strong emotional pull
of the unseen and imagined possibilities. As a mystical card it can represent the visionary, the dreamer, the
act of envisioning one's reality beforehand in order to manifest it. In such work it is imperative to both see
oneself in the chosen reality and feel the emotions attendant with that wish in order to manifest the actual
reality. However, this card also represents a choice that needs to be made in order to focus ones thoughts and
actions. If there are too many choices, if one's emotions are equally scattered among the options it is more
than likely none of them will come to pass and you will remain only a wisher or a dreamer. This card
sometimes reminds me of the phrase, "Too heavenly minded to be of any earthly good." While there's nothing
wrong with daydreaming or fantasizing and in fact its healthy, one who merely dreams and one who pursues
a dream have very different lives.
The Seven of Wands reminds me of a rebel, a freedom fighter, a revolutionary. Here is someone who, against
all opposition, and they outnumber him, stands up for what he believes. Once again, this card captures not
only the solitary essence of the sevens but also the experiential act that follows strong feeling. When we see
someone take on a challenge like this we say such a one has "spirit." This is a reflection of the spiritual seven,
the spirit inside that drives one to, some would say, extremes. This card usually bodes very well for the lone
fighter and indicates that if you should find yourself in a similar situation you will most likely prevail. Most
decks depict the figure standing on higher ground symbolizing that he has the higher moral stance and that
gives him an advantage. This is also the "walk your talk" card. Philosophizing and talking about one's beliefs
and understanding of spiritual things is one thing, but where the rubber meets the road is when those same
beliefs are challenged, when its hard to live by them because others don't accept you or berate you for them.
Standing out in a crowd can be difficult, but in order to give your faith feet and bring it into reality, you must
act on it or it's nothing more than, well, seven of cups.
The Seven of Pentacles may not seem very sevenish, in that it deals with work and material things, but we
must remember that seven is the union of spirit and matter and each of the sevens in tarot do reflect an
aspect of that union. In this seven, the focus is on goals and plans based on both one's dreams and one's
material circumstances. It is in this card that one assigns "worth" to an endeavor, both in material and
spiritual terms. For what does it matter if you have all the riches you desire if you are abjectly miserable
doing what it is you're doing to create that wealth? In some ways this is the "meaning of life" card in that it
represents an evaluation process that measures one's work against an inner sense of satisfaction. The seven's
dreamer aspect is evident here as the figure weighs his accomplishments against his own goals and dreams
and contemplates various possibilities. As the suit is pentacles, the focus is primarily on what can be
accomplished with the material resources one has and is producing and how to use those resources to follow
one's dreams and desires. This card brings those seven of cups dreams down to earth to reasonably consider
what is actually feasible given the raw material you have to work with.
Sevens connect us spiritually to the forces we know exist but cannot see, both within us and without. They
inspire and drive us in many powerful ways, which is why there are many pitfalls within each of them. The
seven of swords could be up to no good, the seven of cups dangerously delusional, the seven of wands may be
in for a thrashing, and the seven of pentacles just might foolishly throw all his cash away on some get rich
quick scam, but these cards all get their energy from The Chariot whose will and focus derives from a

powerful inner conviction. It's better to stand for something, live what you believe, and chase your dreams
with enthusiasm. The charioteer is well aware of the risks, but the ride is worth it. Now that's living.

Tarot By The Numbers: The Eights

Eights in Tarot are a mixed bag. They contain the solid sense of four yet
without its enclosing, fearful walls. Eights are about moving beyond that
structure, but still working within its rules. It takes the growth lessons of
all the numbers that came before it and moves still higher, still striving
towards the goal. There is the hint of a new beginning with the eight, but
it's more because the old ways weren't working as well as you'd hoped.
There is both building and destruction inherent in the eights, so it may be
difficult at times to ascertain the meaning in the card.
Eight is one number beyond perfection and represents the infinity. The mathematical symbol for infinity, the
leminscate is, after all, the number eight turned on its side. We see this symbol in various cards in the tarot:
The Magician, the Two of Pentacles, but also, auspiciously, in the Major Arcana VIII Strength. More about
this in a moment, because as we shall see, Strength fits very neatly into the symbolism of the number eight,
with its multifaceted approach to challenges.
Eight was the number of the balance and cosmic order of the universe according to the Egyptians. In
Mesopotamia, the eight-leaf rosette was also the emblem of the fertility goddess Ishtar and her planet Venus.
This symbolizes the eight's basic meaning of birth and death and rebirth, or building and destruction and
new beginning aspect of the eight. To the early Christians it was the symbol of the new Life, the final
Resurrection and the anticipated Resurrection that is baptism. It was also the number of Beatitudes (The
Blesseds) of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. The number eight as a symbol of new beginning is seen in the
Bible, as when Noah saved eight persons from the flood to start over. Similarly, the Jewish rite of
circumcision which marks the beginning of the newborn boys relationship with God is performed on the
eighth day, and in Leviticus 9:1, the inauguration of the Tabernacle as the new dwelling place for the
presence of God took place after seven days of preparation on the eighth. In Jewish Qabbalah, the number is
the eighth Sephira, Hod or "Splendour." The star of Bethlehem is usually shown with eight rays. Also, Easter
Sunday, the day when Christ is said to have rose from the dead, was counted as the eighth day after Palm
Sunday, the day on which Jesus entered Jerusalem. I know, to us it seems like seven, but the ancients had an
inclusive way of counting the day itself plus the following days.
Eight, being a higher representation of four, also represents the earth, though not in its surface but in its
volume, since eight is the first cubic number. ThePythagoreans have made the number eight the symbol of
love, friendship, prudence and thinking and they have called it the Great "Tetrachtys". The Eight-Spoked
Wheel, or Dharmachakra symbolises the Buddha's turning the Wheel of Truth or Law (dharma = truth/law,
chakra = wheel). The Dharmachakra has eight spokes, symbolising the Eight-Fold Noble Path. In
Neopaganism, there are eight Sabbats, festivals, seasons, or spokes in the Wheel of the Year. Eight solar years
are also the time it takes the "new" midwinter solstice sun to come again close to a new moon. The number
eight means multiplicity for the Japanese and in China, eight expresses the totality of the universe. Eight is
considered an auspicious number for the Chinese not only because it sounds the same as prosperous or fa
in Cantonese, but also because it is the yinnest of the yin numbers from 1-9. The Chinese believe that if you

are at the bottom, the only way for you to go is up. So eight stands for potential and for growth: a change
from bad luck to good luck. Eight also stands for the eight trigrams (bagua) an auspicious symbol of
transformation. In many cultures and ideologies eight seems to have similar meaning: the movement from
less to more, destruction, regeneration, and resurrection, a kind of microcosmic cycle of life all on its own.
In numerology, eight is the number of building, and in some theories also the number of destruction. Eight
has the primary numerological meanings of wholeness, change, leadership, and power and is viewed as one
of the strongest numbers in some schools of numerology. The focus of eight is material possessions and
money and is very powerful in attracting wealth. It tends to happen, though, if eight comes up in your
numerology reading, you tend to have great gains and failures, which means major highs and lows, which is
also in alignment with the rather contradictory meaning of the eight. Lots of cycles. Governed by Saturn,
number eight people suffer sorrow along with success. If you are an eight person, you possess great will
power and individuality, yet you are often misunderstood, partly as a result of hiding your strong feelings
beneath a cold exterior. Sounds a bit like Scorpio, the 8th astrological sign of the Zodiac.
So how all this relates to VIII Strength you may have already put together in your mind. Strength used to be
La Force or Fortitude, one of the four cardinal virtues in the tarot. Some earlier depictions of this card show
brute force being used while others show a woman (virtues are usually symbolized as women) breaking a
pillar and/or closing a lion's mouth. Fortitude to the ancient Greeks meant bringing all your resources to
bear in a situation, doing whatever it takes to overcome the challenge whether that means bearing it in quiet
strength or attacking the problem head on. It might mean different approaches depending on the situation.
Today tarot readers often default to the meaning of subduing one's inner impulses and while that can be one
approach that shows fortitude, it isn't the only one, and really is more applicable to Temperance. In some
cases taking the bull by the horns, the tiger by the tail, or, in this case, the lion by his jaws is what is called
for, because once you've grabbed on you can't let go until the job is finished. These kinds of challenges
require determination, yes, and strength and are quite the character-building experiences. Once you've seen
it through, you often come out the other end quite a different person and hence, the rebirth side of the eight
is seen. You may not come away unscathed either, in fact you will probably suffer some deep gashes from
those sharp teeth and claws, and so the suffering and success theme is evident in the card. The infinity
symbol is seen above the woman's head in the Waite version of the card, which implies perfecting one's inner
strength through challenge and maybe biting off more than you think you can chew.
The Eight of Swords is one of those Minor Arcana scenic pips that makes us wince a little. Usually pictured is
a woman bound, blindfolded, and barefoot surrounded by eight swords. Often when a querant receives this
card in a reading there is an immediate sense of identification with feelings of being trapped and unable to
determine which way to go to release oneself. This is, as with all eights, a challenge to be faced and overcome,
hearkening back to the Strength card. However, being of the Swords suit, this
is a challenge of the mind and of using one's mental faculties to either entrap
or release oneself, and being an eight it is likely a bit of both. Something must
be destroyed in order to gain release and in this case
the bonds must be cut, she must abandon a certain
way of thinking that has gotten her in this sticky
predicament in the first place, she must rely on her
inner resources (Strength, again) rather than her
sight and problematic thought pattern, carefully
feeling the earth with her bare feet for clues to her
next move. The desolate landscape and the circular
pattern of the swords indicate that this situation

could quite literally go on endlessly (the infinity pattern of the eight) unless she herself does something about
it.

The Eight of Cups shows yet another desolate environment, a place of darkness and stagnant waters. The
symbolism of this eight is associating more with the regeneration aspect, but also inner fortitude as well. The
figure is usually seen leaving eight cups behind which represent emotional ties, relationships, and other
meaningful associations to him in order to seek out that which is more emotionally fulfilling to him. In
reference to the seven, this guy has decided which cup contains his most sought after desire and in the eight
he leaves the others behind in order to pursue his dream. That can be one of the hardest decisions one makes
in life and hence the inner strength and determination of VIII is needed to see it through. The lesson of the
eights are that nothing good comes without sacrifice and that sometimes suffering is just part of the path to
success. We must face the bitter with the sweet. Something compels us, though, in the Eight of Cups, to move
beyond that which we've known and loved to something more, thought we don't even yet know what that
something will actually be.

The Eight of Wands focuses more on the power of the eight to get things accomplished as quickly as possible.
Even in the pictorial decks, this is one pip card that often shows primarily the eight wands, with no storybook
scene to tell the story. In the Thoth deck it is called "Swiftness" and that keyword is very apt for the energy of
the eights in this card. This is the "git 'er done" card that takes the aspect of the Strength card that means
taking on a challenge and moving quickly to its resolution. In modern terms this card has come to often
represent the fast-moving communication of the internet, emails, text messages which accomplish passing
information back and forth in the wink of an eye. However, it can also represent various actions being
performed at once with a common goal. To coordinate these efforts takes a good deal of focus and
determination to make sure all eight of those wands hit their mark. This highlights the facet of eight that
refers to multiplicity, balance, and order. While the wands are not yet "grounded" they aren't flying off in fifty
different directions either. They have been aimed and are in alignment with one another, so there is a
purpose and direction to their trajectory. Events are going to happen quickly and there is a focused purpose
to them.

The Eight of Pentacles relies on the inner determination that is brought to bear on a task that requires
detailed, focused concentration over a period of time. This card often shows an apprentice at work
hammering out a series of pentacles assembly-line fashion. This kind of detail work takes dedication and
much burning of the midnight oil. Often when I see this card I feel the intensity of the figure's concentration.
He is totally engrossed in what he is doing
and is really bent on doing it just so, getting
it just right. It also reflects the aspect of the
eight that represents building, as he is
building his reputation as well as building
his skills. The alignment of the pentacles he
has finished show the order of the eights,
and also the notion that in order to reach
the higher levels you have to start at the
bottom. Some find this card a bit out of
order in the sequence of the pentacles suit
and some decks, such as the Hudes, have

even switched the meanings of the three and the eight, showing an apprentice on the three and a master on
the eight. But I believe this is incorrect if you take into consideration the loss of the the five and the decisionmaking of the seven. Here is someone who is starting again but not entirely from scratch. He is learning a
new skill that can build on the skills he has already obtained. He is taking on a new field of endeavor and, as
such, is broadening his resume. Possibly he's found an area of his work that he's never been really good at
and is polishing his skills and aptitude in that area so that he can be even better at what he does. This is the
guy from the seven who dreamed of what he wants and is now setting about the task of accomplishing that
goal. He's pouring on the juice here, doing what needs to be done, even if it may seem rather boring and
repetitive.
The eights are a mixed lot, to be sure, and it really helps to relate the cards back to VIII Strength to
understand the different kinds of approaches and the different facets of the meaning of strength. There are
situations that call for a slow, tedious, dedicated approach, while others call for a full on, no holds barred
attack. Some situations require us to restrain an urge to rush in while other situations need us to work up the
courage to act decisively and with force. The four Minor Arcanas show these various approaches with the
cyclical and dual idea of building and destroying, suffering and success that the eight represents.

Tarot By The Numbers: The Nines

In number symbolism, nine, not ten, means completion. This can be
rather confusing in tarot when the suits have a sequence of ten cards. But
there are reasons for this and once understood it makes things a little
easier. In a base 10 system, where all numbers are represented by ten
distinct forms (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9), nine is the final number. It
then represents a limit, the end, or an ultimate goal. The last among the
seven Pythagorean numbers (three through nine), nine is the limit to
which the generative principles of number reach. The ancient mathematical philosophers called nine the
finishing post and that which brings completion.
The Greeks called nine "the horizon," beyond which the Ennead, or "the nothing" or void lay. We colloquially
express this by saying things like "the nth degree" or that a cat has nine lives and "the whole nine yards" to
mean the very limit of something. Also we say someone is "on cloud nine" or "dressed to the nines" when
they are achieving something high. There are nine magnitudes on the Richter earthquake scale, though one
has not yet been recorded to go that high and so is only theoretically possible at this time. As such, nine is the
completion of a cycle, symbolic of change and reform. In tarot it represents the end prior to a new beginning.
So what's the ten there for? I'll get to that in the next post in this series.
Nine is composed of three trinities (3 times 3 equals 9) and represents the principles of the sacred Triad
taken to their utmost expression. In fact, the Chaldeans believed nine to be so sacred they kept it apart in
their numerology from the other numbers. This practice relates back to the Major Arcana IX, The Hermit,
who separates himself from others in the spiritual search of the sacred. The Norse God Odin, ruler of the nine
Norse worlds, hung nine days on the world axis or Yggdrasil tree to win the secrets of wisdom for mankind
and after the seige of Troy, which lasted for nine years, Odysseus wandered for nine years in trying to return
home. The Hermit is often pictured standing on a mountaintop, a pinnacle of sorts, the limit of height.
The Nine Muses were the fruits of nine nights of Zeus' lovemaking. Thus, nine is associated with gestation
and the fulfillment of creation. We say it takes nine months to make a baby, although it is actually ten lunar
months. However, that last month is a transition time where the baby and the mother's body prepares for

birth. In that same vein of procreativeness, in Scandinavia nine-day fertility feasts were held every nine
years.
In fact nine features prominently in many ancient cultures. Aztec, Mayan, and Native American myths
describe nine cosmic levels (four above, earth, and four below). There were nine Gods of the Sabines (an
ancient tribe of Italy): Aeneas, Bacchus, Esculapius, Fides, Fortuna, Hercules, Romulus, Santa, and Vesta. As
the most auspicious number of celestial power in ancient China, nine became the rule in nine great social
laws, nine classes of officials, nine sacred rites, and 9-story pagodas. The festival of the double yang was
held on the 9th hour of the 9th day of the 9th month. In fact, the Chinese words for gift and nine are
identical. In Christian symbolism, there are nine orders of angelic choirs in nine circles of heaven and nine
orders of devils within nine rings of hell. The gifts of the spirit are nine in number: the words of wisdom,
knowledge, faith, healing, miracles and prophecy; the discerning of spirits; tongues; and the interpretation of
tongues.
Nine has been, and in some cases still is, considered thrice sacred and represents perfection, balance and
order. In Kabbalah, the ninth Sphere (sephira) of divine emanation is Yesod. The word "Yesod" means
foundation, and Yesod is the last of the immaterial sephirah. It is said this is the place where the Cherubim
dwell, the angels that act as intermediaries between man and the spirit world. However, it is also the place of
Gamaliel, or certain demons considered to be children of Lilith.
Nine represents society and completion as well as symbolizing mankind, philanthropy, charity, social issues
and government. Nine is representative of universal love, giving and the brotherhood of man, as well as
neighborhood, clubs, organizations, institutions and the common good. The positive characteristics of nine
are selflessness, fulfillment, completion, universality, universal understanding, interrelatedness, compassion,
idealism, tolerance, forgiveness, generosity, benevolence, humanitarianism, emotionalism, and justice. Nine
is also associated with accomplished artists and thinkers who are inspired by universal truths.
Some of these concepts don't seem to fit well with the traditional Rider Waite imagery. All of the four nines in
many tarot decks show a solitary figure, not someone interacting in the process of giving to others. However,
the concept is often implied rather than shown outright. The solitary aspect is directly echoing The Hermit
whose spiritual quest has taken him to a place apart and alone. His contributions to society may be made in
the form of writing or mentoring, but they are significant. One's accomplishments are truly one's own. While
others may support, teach, help and contribute to your success, when you have achieved something it is yours
and yours alone. The ideal result is that by your achievement, you are then in a position to give back, to help
others cross that threshold as well.
The Nine of Swords may not seem to be much of an achievement, but if you look closer it can represent that
final battle with one's self, one's mind, that must be confronted and conquered. It is a dark night of the soul, a
time when one's thoughts threaten to sabotage everything. The swords of thought, communication and action
turn into weapons against oneself rather than tools of progress. This is the night before the big exam, the
time when you totally freak out because everything you spent weeks, nay months, studying just leaks out of
your brain and you can't remember a single thing. You start to think you're going to fail, you are going to end
up homeless and destitute, you're a lame loser with no future. Eeeeek! This whole mindfuck we tend to do to
ourselves just prior to a Big Event is typical and might even be necessary. It's like your mind runs through all
the worst case scenarios so you can be prepared, mentally, for any course of events. Or maybe it's just
nervous mental energy that needs to be expended before we can relax enough to actually do our best. This
place in the swords suit is really where the mind goes the furthest it can go, and ultimately it can go no
farther. You exhaust all the possibilities and usually end up with heartburn and nightmares because of it, but

at least you've thought it all through.

The Nine of Cups is traditionally called The Wish Card in tarot. There are spreads that say that if the Nine of
Cups appears in a certain position, you will definitely get what you desire. Feh. Whatever. Never worked for
me. (Or did it? Be careful of what you wish for!) This is a really happy card, the guy on it usually looks so very
self-satisfied. To relate it to the symbolism of the nines the scene depicted in most Rider Waite based decks
shows a man before a banquet table with nine cups on the table. He is the host and is quite pleased to be able
to share what he has with his honored guests. This is where the philanthropic part of the nines as well as the
emotionalism comes to the fore. This guy is just so moved emotionally that he's "going to the nth degree,"
pulling out all the stops, "the whole nine yards," for those he either wants to impress or be generous to out of
a higher motivation, one never can be sure. He's "on cloud nine" in this act of emotional giving. This card also
represents the "channel" aspect of Yesod, in that this man's feelings are being translated into something
tangible and material by way of his sharing his wealth with others in a way that blesses them. This card
shows only he, not his guests, because the focus of the nine is on his achievement and the benefits of which
he will share in just a moment. I see this card, too, as just feeling good about yourself, feeling happy in the
moment, being full of good feelings and appreciating what you have. He has found the cup he set out to look
for in the Eight of Cups and now he, at least for the moment, "has it all."
The Nine of Wands, like the swords nine, shows a tougher aspect of the nine. This one is the grit and
determination it takes to succeed. This card represents that last breather before you finally finish what you
started. Being wands, the active fire element of tarot, this card refers mainly to the energy needed to bring
something to fruition. Having birthed four children, I can't help but liken this card to labor. The figure on the
card is showing the weariness of of his trials, battered and bandaged, he has been through much. There
comes a point in labor when things get quiet and it's usually right before they get really hairy towards the
end. That's the overall theme of this card, the end is at hand and this is a regathering of energy for that final
push to completion.

The Nine of Pentacles, like the Nine of Cups, shows someone enjoying the fruit of their labors and with the
ability to share it with others. Although the card shows a woman alone in her wealth, it is implied that she
has the ability and means to be a benefactress. The trained falcon can represent her communication with
others, the way she sends parts of herself out into the world which then return to her. Here is someone who
has reached a certain pinnacle in life, materially speaking, and this comfortable financial state allows her to
focus on other pursuits that reach more heavenward than earthbound. Unlike the Nine of Cups, this woman
isn't on "cloud nine" emotionally, her feet are planted firmly on the earth. She has a stability and an
independence that frees her. There is a certain contentedness to feeling complete in oneself, and the Nine of
Pentacles revels in that completeness.
So are we done at nine or almost done? Well...as tarot has one more card in each suit, I would say done
symbolically, but there is one more step to go between the nines and back again to the aces. Here is a place
where tarot ambiguity creeps in. Tarot doesn't actually fit that neatly into any one system. The best fit is with
Qabbalah, but even that had to be tweaked. It doesn't fit neatly into astrology nor into any system of
numerology. These other systems can help add dimensions of understanding to tarot, but cannot be neatly
overlayed. Tarot is unto itself and though the symbolism of nine says we're done there, tarot says no, we're
not quite finished, and adds a ten.

Tarot By The Numbers: The Tens

So if nine is the finale, why the ten? Because ten is neither the end nor
the beginning, but a transition between an ending and a beginning to a
higher order of things. See, the number ten is the start of a whole new
order of numbers and the culmination of the numbers that come before
it.
All the base ten numbering systems in existence from ancient times such
as Hebrew and Greek systems use the number ten as this natural
transition between the numbers that come before into the numbers that come after. A look at the number
values assigned to the Hebrew and Greek letters show that the letters were given values from one to ten, then
increasing in tens to 100 then increasing by 100's and so on. Numbering by tens is natural for us given our
ten fingers which are quite useful for adding and subtracting. You have to re-use fingers when you get past
ten, so it starts a new "order." So ten represents "completeness of order." It symbolizes a cycle has completed
and all is where it should be. As such it represents the perfection of divine order.
But if nine represented the end with nothing but "the void" beyond it, how does it make ten "completion?"
Well, think of it this way, nine is the act of completing and ten is looking back on all you've done and knowing
it is finished and looking forward to your next adventure.
Ten is one of the perfect numbers, and signifies the perfection of Divine order, commencing, as
it does, an altogether new series of numbers. The first decade is the representative of the whole
numeral system, and originates the system of calculation called 'decimals,' because the whole
system of numeration consists of so many tens, of which the first is a type of the whole.
Completeness of order, marking the entire round of anything, is, therefore, the ever-present
signification of the number ten. It implies that nothing is wanting; that the number and order
are perfect; that the whole cycle is complete.
---Ethelbert W. Bullinger, Number in Scripture: Its Supernatural Design and Spiritual Significance (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel,
1967), 243.

The number ten is significant in several religions and cultures of the world. Buddha is possessed of ten noble
states, ten powers, understands ten paths of karma and is endowed with ten attributes of arhatship. In the
Ottoman Empire, the aura of the fabled sultan Suleiman the Magnificent was enhanced because he was the
tenth son of the tenth generation of his dynasty.
In Judaism there are one of the most ancient and obvious uses of the number ten in the scriptures, the Ten
Commandments. Both the Greeks and Hebrews held ten to be the perfect number. Pythagoras considered
that ten comprehends all arithmetic and harmonic proportions, and, like God, is tireless. All nations
calculated with it because when they arrive at ten, they return to one, the number of creation. Pythagoreans
believed the heavenly bodies were divided into ten orders. According to the Kabbalah, there are ten
emanations of numbers out of Nothing. The emanations form the ten sephiroth of the Tree of Life, which
contains all knowledge and shows the path back to God. Associated with Malkuth on the Tree of Life, it is the
number of manifestation, the only number that corresponds to the material world through which we
experience life - in this association, it is thought of as 3+3+3+1 - the one sphere in the realm of Earth. Ten is
considered a magical number, produced by the addition of the first four numbers, 1+2+3+4, important in
Pythagorean and alchemical philosophy.
So what do you do when you've done all you can do on one thing but have yet to start something else? Sit idly

by and twiddle your thumbs, I suppose. Which is why there really isn't a lot of energy in the tens. They're
kind of stagnant and need the impetus of an Ace (or The Magician, whose number is One in the major
Arcana) to get things moving again. In some ways they embody the zero aspect of The Fool, a directionless
time that may leave you floudering for a bit. While there's no going back, there really isn't a forward to go
towards just yet. So the Fool's aimless wandering fits with the zero part of this number. The one indicates the
beginning, but the zero is like, but what? Where? I dunno. This transition can be difficult or more easy,
depending on the situation, and tarot gives examples of both.
Ten is the number of The Wheel of Fortune in the Major Arcana and if there was ever a wild card, apart from
the Fool, this one is it. Pretty much anything can happen with The Wheel, good and bad and indifferent. It's
all about Change, that card, so with tens you just kinda have to roll with whatever happens to see where the
next Ace will present itself. But just as tens are a unique combination of earth and ether, so as with the Wheel
one sees a stable core or hub around which the wheel spins. In life, too, there are things that stay the same
even while other things cycle through their changes. As such, the tens really are about how these changes can
affect us and how to best approach them.
The Ten of Swords. Ugh. What a card. This card is undeniably graphic and there's just no quibbling when it
appears. Done. Overdone, in fact. The card is shocking, even to those who are familiar with the cards and
speaks with a finality that is rather unique to this one card. The sword suit tells us that the subject is a matter
of thinking, communicating, and actions based on those thoughts and this card says the issue is dead. You've
done as much as you can with it and it is quite enough. In fact, you've probably beaten this dead horse, as one
sword was plenty, but now there are ten in the guy's back. As graphic as this card can be, try to remember
that the swords represent not literal death but the end of a particular way of thinking, a particular issue or
conversation. In many cases this card can show the end of worry, and in that aspect can come as a relief. The
anxiety of the nine of swords is fully realized in the ten and you "give up the ghost" so to speak on the source
of the worry. You've basically done all you can, said all you can, thought all you can on it and it is time to stick
a fork in it because it's done. The transitional aspect of the ten is seen in various signs and symbols in the
card. In most Rider Waite versions the dawn is breaking in the distance so it signals that, while this issue is
dead, there can be hope and a fresh start. The dead man's hand is posed in the same sign of blessing as the
Hierophant's hand, so there is the feeling that this ending is a blessing, though maybe in disguise. Often our
minds refuse to let go of old thought patterns and some of us are very dogged in our need to win an
argument, so this card really shows the consequence of clinging too tightly to outworn notions and
stubbornness.
The Ten of Cups is all "Happy! Happy! Joy! Joy!" Often featuring the idyllic
scene of a family gathered together in warmth and love and happiness with a
rainbow arching over them as a promise of continued blessing, this card is
representative of those golden moments in life when it just doesn't get any
better than this. These moments really feel like bottled sunshine and we so
wish they could last a lot longer than they do. But tens are transitory and are
meant to be a rest stop, not a destination. While the Ten of Swords often
arises from resistance to change, the Ten of Cups shows a kind of resistance
as well. When things feel this good, one is reluctant to fix what isn't broken,
mess with perfection, or dare make a move else lose this glorious feeling.
Let's not eff it up, shall we? But rainbows only last so long. In time, storm
clouds will gather again and life won't feel so grand. Sometimes this card
shows up in a reading to say, "This is the best it's going to be." In that
respect, if you had future hopes for something to get better or develop into

something more, this card kinda says well...no, this is it. This is as good as it's going to get. It can also signal
that the stormy times in a relationship are over, at least for now, that all is well between you again and you
can move on from here together. I don't often see this card literally represent marriage, although it can
symbolize the end of the courtship phase and moving to the next level. But it just as often can show that the
relationship has reached its natural conclusion and everyone is ok with that. Nobody is heartbroken or
grieving, it's quite alright.
The Ten of Wands conveys such heaviness. Unlike the Ten of Swords which at least shows relief from a taxing
mental trial, the Ten of Wands displays the resistance to change of responsibilities. There come times in life
when one must recognize one's limitations. Maybe you used to be able to juggle two jobs, parenting, and
being president of a local club, but it's really gotten to be too much. You're tired, you're aching, and your head
is so buried in your daily responsibilities you can't see anything or anyone else. You may have an overactive
sense of commitment which won't allow you to let go and so you drive yourself to go on and on even though
your health and your relationships are suffering. As a ten, this card signals that something is going to break,
something will end this insanity, and if you don't choose to put some of those wands down, something will
force you to. I'm always struck by the way the figure's face is buried in the stack of wands and it reminds me
of someone burying their head either in the sand or up their arse, depending on the attitude. It's as if this
person thinks they are the only one who can do what it is they do and the world will just collapse if they don't
do it. Not. More likely he will be the one collapsing. Though the card often seems to be saying, "Press on,
you're almost there," I see it more often showing someone putting too much on their own shoulders that
causes them to lose focus on what is truly important. Thus, when they finally are released from their burden,
one way or another, they find a sense of freedom and are open to being creatively inspired in a new direction.
Until they complete this journey, though, no new firey wands energy can enter in.
The Ten of Pentacles, like the Ten of Cups, shows a scene of contentment and ease, but this one is based more
on the material comforts of life rather than an emotional high and as such are less fleeting, though not
entirely secure either. For as we have seen in the progression of the pentacles numbers, wealth can be gained
or lost suddenly or by measure, depending on circumstances and your own choices. This ten focuses more on
reaching the place in life where you've established yourself in such a way that you can now begin to start new
ventures, share your wealth, connect with others to help them get started on something new. Here in this
card you can relax for a time, but maybe you can look to ways to use what you have, spread it around. As with
the Ten of Cups, too, this card can tell you you've reached as far as you're going to go with a particular job,
venture, or project. If this card comes up in a career reading about your current position, you may want to
start sending out your resume because you're not likely to see much more increase in your salary in your
present job. While it can bode well for future plans, when seen in the present it indicates that something has
reached its potential and other seeds must be planted for new growth.
Tens can indicate endings, but they also show new beginnings as well.
They really are kind of like that Ennead the
Greeks believed lay beyond the nine because
there is a sense of not really doing much but
possibly tying up the very last loose ends of
things and yet not having moved on to the
next thing, stopping a moment in relief,
grief, happiness, contentment, or some
combination thereof. This is that time
between and sometimes it can feel
somewhat of a void as we move from one

phase or cycle to the next, but the time is essential to get our bearings, a breather, and to reflect on the
previous cycle. You never know when the next unexpected Ace will pop out of the clouds, so use this ten time
wisely before you "level up" to the next phase of your journey.

The Tarot Court: The King of Pentacles

To live content with small means, to seek elegance rather than
luxury, and refinement rather than fashion, to be worthy, not
respectable, and wealthy, not rich, to study hard, think quietly, talk
gently, act frankly, to listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages,
with open heart, to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await
occasions, hurry never, in a word to let the spiritual, unbidden and
unconscious, grow up through the common, this is to be my
symphony. -William Henry Channing
The King of Pentacles is usually portrayed in tarot as a very wealthy
man. His clothes are sumptuous and fine, he is usually seated and
relaxed. His is an air of comfort and ease. He is the benefactor, the
financial advisor you know knows what he's talking about because
whatever he's done with his own finances has yielded results.
Pentacles is the suit of money, but also of everything of the earth,
material things, food, sensuality, all that you can touch, see, smell
and hear. This is a man who knows what feels good and what satisfies the senses, be it good food,
good music, or good art. These pleasures of life are what makes life worth living to him and which
enfolds him in a state of contentment on a daily basis.
Here is a man who, upon rising, looks forward to his morning cup of coffee, not for the caffeine
buzz but for its taste. He appreciates soft fabrics, warm fires, and the cold nose of his dog on his
hand. Some say he's lazy because he is often pictured lazing about. No, he isn't lazy, he's reserving
his resources. His sharp mind and verbal abilities give him the ability of all the kings, the talent and
knowhow that allows him to put forth the least amount of personal effort and yield the most
amazing results. He's figured out that if he does his neighbor's taxes for him, his lawn will be
mowed for a season in return. So, he spends an evening on the
computer and yields an entire summer of leisure. He is generous,
though rarely will his generosity fail to benefit him in some way.
Even his contributions to charity are a tax write-off. His favors for
others means they owe him one, too. If you need a loan, he'll
likely give it to you, even interest-free. But, you must know that
you will pay up one day when he comes to ask for your services
in some other way. It's just the way his economy works, but
everyone benefits.
The King of Pentacles is one of the most sensuous and romantic
of the courts. He stops at nothing to make sure his lover is
delighted in all her senses. Fine wine, fine music, and rich
chocolate. "Are you comfortable?" is his chief concern. His "air
of earth" elemental combination usually results in a thoughtful,
well-spoken man who gives generously of himself and all he has,

and he usually has a lot. However, ill dignified or reversed, this King can be miserly and cruel,
selfish and unbearably stubborn. He might be the workaholic who is focused only on the bottom
line, the money he can gather to himself. He might be the one who so gratifies his pleasures that he
takes advantage of the weaker, purchasing sex with prostituted women and swindling old ladies out
of their life savings while acting the part of the smitten lover. He might be the father who can only
show his "love" by buying his children things but never connecting with them in any meaninful
way.
As advice, when the King of Pentacles shows up in a reading he usually encourages you to be
careful where your finances are concerned, to make sure you aren't spending too much unwisely. He
could be suggesting you consult with a trusted financial advisor before signing that contract or
investing that money into that venture. He also reminds you to remember that appreciating the
sensual side to life makes life more pleasurable. Quality over quanitity makes more of a difference.
There is value to luxury when it yields comfort and pleasure to the senses. Art is worth investing in
not just for its resale value but because it enriches your life every day. So consider how you are
living your life, and if your sacrifices make sense both in the short and the long run. If you live like
a pauper and stuff money in your mattress, then die without ever having gone to Brazil as you
dreamed, what have you gained? While he's not at all saying, "Eat, drink, be merry, for tomorrow
we die!" he will ask you to consider the pleasure your life is to you and if you are truly enjoying this
wildly sensual world we live in, no matter what your current financial status. Even the most meager
incomes can find a spare pence for a bouquet of flowers or a cup of really good coffee. His last bit
of advice is to see if you can find ways to exchange services with others in a way that benefits both
of you, but especially you. Work with others and think of new ways to be savvy about the way you
bring wealth, and not just the coin type, into your life.

The Tarot Court: The King of Wands

What a mistake to suppose that the passions are strongest in youth!
The passions are not stronger, but the control over them is weaker!
They are more easily excited, they are more violent and apparent; but
they have less energy, less durability, less intense and concentrated
power than in the maturer life. --Edward Bulwer-Lytton, English dramatist, novelist, &
politician (1803 - 1873)

Remember that spitfire, the Knight of Wands? Well, here is a more

seasoned version. The King of Wands is a youthful man, not in age but
in spirit and energy. He has acquired the ability to actually think
through his actions and channel them to their most effective outcome.
He's a lot less apt to go off half-cocked. Nooo, this man is fullycocked, loaded, and has really good aim. He's tempered that raging
flame with thoughtfulness and chooses his phrases and actions more
carefully. While the Knight merely blurts out whatever his latest idea
happens to be, the King has the ability to persuade others that his ideas
really will work and he is able to gather support for his hairbrained, I mean creative and unique,
schemes.
The King of Wands, elementally speaking, is "air of fire" -- the air giving the flame oxygen to burn,

so it makes the fire less apt to burn itself out. It can burn just as brightly as the Knight's fire on fire,
but it will last longer. Or, it can rage out of control consuming the oxygen and filling the air with
acrid smoke. Yeah, this King still has the capacity for consuming rage and unlike the Knight's
straw-fire anger that blows hot but is overwith quickly, the King's anger can last a while and do
quite a bit more damage. Conversely, his overactive mind can quench his passion's flame and blow
it right out, in which case we have a brooding, discontented man whose vision is clouded and who
lives on the warmth of yesterday's fires but is unable to spark enough of a flame to get anything
accomplished today. Reversed or ill-dignified he can represent a wrathful man with a serious anger
problem or a man in need of Viagra, or both. Take your prick, I mean pick.
When the King of Wands appears in a reading he is usually a great sign of encouragement to put
those long thought-out plans into action. You've done your homework, you've checked out the
feasibility of the project, now get moving. Set things into motion, rally support, delegate, get the
word out. However, he also lets you know that if anything will be done, YOU have to do it. The
buck will stop with you, so take that responsibility and know that you're in charge and to you will
lie all acclaim or blame. He is telling you that your ideas are good ones, but don't act impulsively or
without reading the subclauses, else you could burn out too quickly. Keep your mind engaged fully
in your actions and see it through to the end. This is not a time to quit because the going got a little
tough or you've lost interest, no. You started this because it meant something to you, so fire up those
brain cells and see if there might be a different way around or through the problems. Or maybe you
can get someone else to do the hard stuff. Now that's using your head, King of Wands style.

The Tarot Court: The King of Cups

How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young,
compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and
tolerant of the weak and the strong -- because someday you will have
been all of these.
-George Washington Carver, US horticulturist (1864 - 1943)

Most of us are really very fond of the King of Cups. He represents the
generously tolerant, compassionate and wise man, a softie that doesn't
hide his true emotions and yet doesn't allow them to get the upper hand
either. He's quite comfortable with the entire spectrum of emotion,
from sorrow to laughter and seems to find that wonderful gem of
insightful truth no matter what the situation, delivering it with
genuine care and warmth with just the right words at the right time.
The King of Cups in the Lunatic Tarot stands as a pillar in his oceanic
robes, which is just as the King of Cups does. He is the one to cling
to when your own emotional storms are threatening to do you in.
His compassionate nature allows him to be very tolerant and
patient with others, as he has plunged the depths of his own self
and soul and found the frailty and weaknesses common to the
human condition. He does not judge but accepts and encourages
one to reach one's highest potential.

Sounds like Mr. Perfect, right? Well....um...no. He is "air of water," which means that, as a King, his
air element gives him a sharp intellect and a forward moving active drive, and his suit element of
water tempers his intellect with emotion, but when out of balance or ill dignified, this King can be a
seducer, emotional manipulator, and the least reliable of all the Kings. He can be prone to
alcoholism, emotional rages, and narcissistic self-absorbtion. Oh, but he means well.
He is less a romantic adventurer than his Knight and sometimes upsets his Queen with his rather
lacksidaisical ways, but as an artist, a poet, or a writer he is supreme. The wells of wisdom from
which he draws his inspiration are bottomless and deep, though sometimes dark and mysterious.
These are people like Albert Schwietzer, St. Francis, Mother Theresa, and even former U.S.
President, Jimmy Carter. Sure, they have their flaws and yet they more than make up for them with
the richness they lend to the world. They have an openness about them that makes them
approachable and genuine.
In a reading, the King of Cups often calls you to act with emotional maturity, to look to compassion
and meet the situation with a calm, intelligence that is neither dispassionate nor overly passionate.
Weigh the facts but consider as well the feelings and needs of all involved. Watch that you aren't
slogging through this king's negative tendencies, and if you are, seek higher ground. It means
you've gotten wiped out in one of his emotional waves. Taking hold of the air element in this card
will allow you just the right measure of emotional detachment needed to dry yourself off.

The Tarot Court: The King of Swords

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your
thoughts, therefore guard accordingly; and take care that you
entertain no notions unsuitable to virtue, and reasonable nature. Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Roman Emperor, A.D. 161-180 (121 AD - 180 AD)

I have had a hard time learning to appreciate the King of Swords.

For a long time whenever he made an appearance in a tarot
reading, I usually scowled and quietly muttered some random
epithet to his face. The seething hatred I felt for this character was
quite strong and as I worked through trying to understand my
visceral reaction to him, I learned quite a lot about both myself and
this guy, and through it all began to appreciate his aspects or at
least accept them. Tarot can help us explore our own issues this
way, the things buried inside: attitudes, predjudices, old wounds,
our dark or shadow self. One kind of expects that with a card
like The Devil or another Major Arcana archetype, but to have

thisreaction to a court card surprised me. I'm telling you, I absolutely despised this guy and felt like
ripping the card in two and tossing it from my decks. I mean, look, doesn't the King of Swords from
the DruidCraft deck look a lot like Mr. Spock, the half-Vulcan, half-human whose appeal to logic in the
series Star Trekwas often infuriating, especially to the more emotional Dr. McCoy?
The King of Swords is a man completely and utterly ruled by reason and logic. He gives no quarter
to emotional sway unless the emotions are in full accord with that same reason and logic. His mind
is supreme and his decisions just, but they do not leave room for passion, emotion, and instinct. All
must conform to the processes of what is true and not what could be. He refuses to muddy the
process with hopes and wishes and least of all, faith. This is not a man who acts on a hunch or relies
on gut feelings. If it isn't able to be logically and factually proven, it doesn't exist. Which isn't to say
he doesn't entertain theories. Oh, yes, theories are the fodder that keeps the wheels of his ever-active
mind turning. But theories must be grounded firmly in what is known and tested to prove
themselves. And don't even think about getting into a debate or
argument with this guy. He will chop up your ass and hand it back to
you on a platter and politely ask, "Is there anything else you'd like to
know?"
Who can abide such a man? Not me. For the men I have known whose
minds were of such a bent and whose hearts seemed cold and
untouchable were those I found very dangerous, indeed. For without
the warmth and yes, illogic, of emotions and without leaning into faith,
I could see nothing in the King of Swords but a souless, robotic borg
clothed in flesh. I found him cruel and unbending, at first. The books
said he makes a fine lawyer and business advisor, but then again there
is a reason for all those lawyer jokes. You know, like this one (with
apologies to my lawyer friends) :
The devil visited a lawyer's office and made him an offer. "I can arrange some things for you, " the
devil said. "I'll increase your income five-fold. Your partners will love you; your clients will respect
you; you'll have four months of vacation each year and live to be a hundred. All I require in return is that your wife's soul, your children's
souls, and their children's souls rot in hell for eternity. The lawyer thought for a moment. "What's the catch?" he asked.

His elemental nature as a King is air, the realm of thoughts, communication, action, and conflict.
His suit element, swords, is also of the element air, so he is "air of air" (for chrissakes!) which gives
us the qualities of someone of such a keen mind that, while he is human and does in fact possess
emotion and passion, finds little use for them and is uncomfortable in that realm. Like his Queen, he
understands human nature very well and can use his knowledge to his own ends. His primary tool is
language, and if it serves his purpose to talk about emotions and use his words to sway someone
else's emotions, he will do so. Just don't make the mistake that he can be swayed in a similar
fashion. He won't budge.
So what was it about him that prevented the ravaging of my tarot decks and the elimination of this
irksome character? His ethics. He does not lie. He communicates the truth and holds to the highest
of moral codes. Any moral code worth living by does in fact love mercy and can see the illogic of
always following through on pure reason and logic when it works against the wholeness and
completeness of life. This king understands that just because something "works" doesn't mean it's
always to one's benefit or the benefit of others. It's not really compassion that comes into play for

him, but the ability to see the end result of actions. While the actions might make sense, if they don't
yield the result you are after, they are not useful. It was this quality that softened my opinion of him
and saved him from being spat on every time he appeared in my readings. I don't see him as a cruel,
unbending tyrant anymore. Instead, I often appreciate his viewpoint as it can cut through the
confusion created by mixed emotions and riotous passions. One's heart can indeed lead one astray at
times and just as important as it is to "follow your bliss" one has to balance that with what is
reasonable if one is to succeed on that blissful journey. When he appears in your readings, he urges
you to calmly and rationally think through your situation, to tell the truth, speak eloquently, be
reasonable and for God's sake, figure it out the best you can beforehand. You might save yourself
some embarrassment in the end.

The Tarot Court: The Kings

It's said that 'power corrupts', but actually it's more true
that power attracts the corruptible. The sane are usually
attracted by other things than power. When they do act,
they think of it as service, which has limits. The tyrant,
though, seeks mastery, for which he is insatiable,
implacable. -David Brin, The Postman
All-powerful monarchs whose power was said to be a
divine right, appointed by God and given free reign over
the land and its subjects is, thankfully, a relic of the
distant past. For as the above quote references, it seems
quite true that power does corrupt and absolute power
corrupts absolutely. History as well as current events
show that men don't seem to do well without limits.
The power of the king was limited by an agreement
known as the Magna Cartain 1215: this was the starting
point of the system of democracy and of the legal system
in Britain. A parliament was later established. The early
kings used to call meetings of barons and bishops (this became the House of Lords), but a second
assembly was also created which included local representatives (this became the House of
Commons).Though the Magna Carta placed some limits on the king, it wasn't until The Glorious
Revolution in 1688 that things conspicuously changed. But before the 17th century, the king, or
monarch, had absolute power. This power extended to the royal family, as well. Every male royal
family member had rights that allowed them to enter any house, sleep with any woman, and stay in
the house for as long as he wanted. This, along with many other "privileges," including financial in
the form of taxes, made peasants, serfs; and sometimes lords, resentful towards the royal family.
The feudal system of government meant that the king owned all the land, but he divided it between
barons and the Church. The barons had their own private armies, and agreed to pay taxes and fight
for the king.Few kings had enough wealth to keep a standing army and depended on their barons to
provide knights and soldiers. Kings had to do fancy negotiations and such to keep the barons under
control. In many cases, especially in France and Germany, the barons grew very powerful and
governed their fiefs as independent states. Below the barons, or lords, were yeomen. These were

farmers and tradespeople who were free but had to do some work for the baron. Serfs (peasants)
were slaves owned by the baron and had to provide food in exchange for their security - they were
not allowed to leave the manor without permission. Basically, there was no middle class. You had
rich and less rich, and poor and more poor.
Kings in tarot are somewhat like their historical counterparts in that they are the top dog of the suits.
They represent mastery of the skills and accomplishments of their suit and are the driving force
behind the actions within the suit. Their rule is limited to their suit and also by their own personal
strengths and weaknesses. They, like the other court cards, are not always men, but represent the
qualities of leadership, mastery. As Kent Nerburn has said, "Do not fall prey to the false belief that
mastery and domination are synonymous with manliness." They aren't. Kings represent people,
usually older people with some maturity and wisdom, that have mastered themselves and their
environment in some fashion by hard won skill and experience.
The Kings in tarot are not usually the capricious overlords and tyrannical rulers sometimes (or
often) found in history and in real life. Though ill-dignified they can be quite the pain the ass
bullies, but thankfully the "Divine Right of Kings" does not extend to the kingdom of tarot. Instead
they represent areas in which people strive to gain mastery, and they would collectively advise one
to gather your resources, rally all your faculties, marshal all your energies, focus all your capacities
upon mastery of at least one field of endeavor. They often show up in a reading to represent a
counselor or father-figure, a boss or person of authority, or yourself in a calmer, wiser, more mature
state of mind.

The Tarot Court: The Queen of Pentacles

If nature has made you a giver, your hands are born open, and so is
your heart. And though there may be times when your hands are
empty, your heart is always full, and you can give things out of that. Frances Hodgson Burnett

These pentacles people, God love 'em, they're just so real and genuine.
Even in a fantasy-based deck such as the Fey Tarot, the Queen of
Pentacles evokes such a sincerity and comfortable-with-herselfness.
Here is someone you can tell your secrets to and know for sure she'd
never betray your trust. Throughout the Fey deck the pentacles suit
shows fey folk in the process of creative work, so there is no doubt the
Queen is displaying the work of her own
hands here. And the thing is, she's liable
to gift this piece to you, if she thinks you
need it or like it, just because that's how
she is.
If you're in need of a business partner who is both creative and
practical, as well as passionate and who will truly care about the
endeavor, the Queen of Pentacles is the woman for the job. She can
makeover your living room on a very spare budget, while pregnant
(again), and cook up a pot of soup to leave with you before she goes.
Yeah, she's one of those women, the ones who make it all look so easy.

She's earthy and sensual, practical and frugal, yet she delights in the finer things in life. She's liable
to come from "old money," and understands quality over quantity and comfort over what's in vogue.
She isn't concerned with "making an impression" but more with what nourishes the body and the
soul.
Yet no matter her homemaking skills and the envy they may inspire, you really can't hate her
because she's so warm and genuine. She's so down-to-earth and is totally comfortable in her own
skin. See the Queen of Pentacles on the right here from the Tarot of Durer. Her exposed breasts
symbolize her maternal, nurturing nature while she displays a coin with her own image embossed
on it. Yes, she's sticking her tongue out as if to say, "Yeah, what of it? I'm not impressed with
myself." She's funny. She probably laughs herself silly over fart jokes. Kahlil Gibran wrote, "And
forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair.
" She knows this. The earth is her home, physically as well as emotionally.
What gives this queen her special knack for growing, creating, and nurturing is her unique
elemental combination. She is "water of earth" the life-giving sustenance that no living thing can do
without. She is moist peat moss, rich and dark, full of minerals and nutrients that allow roots to
anchor deeply and leaves to flourish abundantly. Her flaws, however, exhibit themselves only when
imbalanced, when there's too much water, say, with resultant stagnant emotional bogs and swamps.
Too much of either element can smother growth and inhibit it rather than encourage. She can, if too
"earthy" focus too much on material things and lose interest in people and relationships. She might
be the mother who would rather buy her children things than spend time with them. Conversely, she
could be the overattentive, emotionally smothering mother who frets over everything or clings too
much, sinking her loved ones feet in mud so thick they cannot move. She can get "messy." A natural
caretaker, she may give too much and create co-dependency in her relationships when she's needing
to be needed.
However, more often than not, she's one of the more emotionally stable of the Queens, thanks to her
earthy moorings. Just like all of the Pentacles people, she is reliable, loyal, and can be counted on to
give really good advice. When your head and heart are spinning off into oblivion, she will gently
ground you with practical suggestions. Then she'll feed you comfort foods she's made herself, and
make up a feather bed with Egyptian cotton sheets (300 count, at least), scented with lavendar.
She'll leave you alone just the right time and be available for quiet talk when you need it. She will
sit and let you lay your head on her lap and she'll stroke your hair until you fall into a blissful
slumber. There will be warm muffins and hot coffee when you awaken. This, fromWalt Whitman, is
her advice:
Love the earth and sun and animals,
Despise riches, give alms to everyone that asks,
Stand up for the stupid and crazy,
Devote your income and labor to others...
And your very flesh shall be a great poem.

The Tarot Court: The Queen of

Wands
Charming people live up to the very edge of their

charm, and behave as outrageously as the world lets them. --Logan Pearsall Smith (1865-1946), U.S. essayist,
aphorist.

You can't miss her. Her energy lights up a city block. Her personality sparkles and sizzles. This
woman is SEXY, fun, witty, and charming. She's not just the life of the party, she IS the party. She's
planned it, coordinated every detail, brought in fabulous entertainment, and made sure everything
goes off without a hitch. Enter, the Queen of Wands, with a spotlight on her, flashbulbs popping,
and adoring admirers waiting for an opportunity to bask in her short-lived attention.
The thing women have got to learn is that nobody gives you power. You just take it. -Roseanne Barr
She's firey, flashy, and charismatic. She is aggressive and assertive, creative and knows how to live
life to the fullest. She's ready to take on adventure, new ideas, new projects, but she'd rather be the
one to come up with the original idea herself. But even if it's someone else's idea, she'll be happy to
come in and take charge and tell them how it's done. She's so confident in her abilities that she can,
if not careful, run roughshod over others, with the best of intentions, of course, to the point that you
might have to tell her severely to "Back off!" She won't hear you otherwise.

As her Queenly element is water, her wands fire is tempered with sensitivity. She's not as brash as
her knight, nor as single-minded as her king. When overly emotional, that water can put her fire
right out and you'll find her depressed and sluggish, crying over everything and nothing. Wait it out,
she'll find that spark again. More often, the "water of fire" combination results in sizzling, steamy,
hotness that knows just the right temperature to keep things cooking at the proper pace. Her actions,
while energetic, come from her heart and she deeply cares about the outcome and its effect on
everyone involved. This is partly why she can host such wonderful events: she truly cares that
everyone there has a great time. It's really not all window dressing for herself, though it may seem
that way sometimes.
Ill-aspected, the Queen of Wands has her anger issues. She can be scary. She'll key your car, break
the fine china, and throw a hissy fit worthy of an Academy Award. At her very worst, she can
display the violent mood swings of someone with Bi-Polar Disorder off her meds. It's that water/fire
combination. She can be promiscuous, meddling, and yes, abusive. If her insecurities prevail, you
will find her at middle age wearing her teenage daughter's clothing and shagging her son's friends.
As brash and bold as she can be, as seemingly independent as she appears, she has a strong need to
be partnered with someone. This isn't necessarily a weakness, but
her distractedness can cause her to either be serially monogomous
with a high number of long-term partners or a philandering cheater
who is always betraying the ones she claims to love. I likened
Scarlett O'Hara to this queen, and of course that impression comes
from the more negative qualities. While I admire Scarlett's pluck
and determination, it's hard to admire her manipulative narcissism,
which is precisely where this queen can go if reversed.
Yet, even when she's bad, she's good. Her disarming smile, her
quick wit, her engaging personality goes a long way with others
who will more often forgive her shortcomings and put up with her
temper as small sacrifice to basking in this woman's warm and

exciting presence. It takes a LOT to get to the point Rhett Butler did when he turned his back and
finally exited with, "Frankly, Scarlett, I don't give a damn." And he, being quite the rogue and
scoundrel himself, a Knight of Wands, really, even given his age, he had a lot of tolerance for her
antics. Most will do as he did for so long and really get a kick out of her, see her manipulations, and
love her anyway. Therefore, as advice the Queen of Wands is kicking
things up a notch and urging you to be passionate about life, about
love, about everything you do. She recommends a night of dancing,
but not at your usual place. Find a new kind of music to dance to, take
belly dance lessons, create a scene, be impulsive and let your inner sex
goddess out. Do what you love and do it with enthusiasm and flair. Be
outrageous once in a while. She'll be the first to remind you that you
only go around once in life, so live. A little crazy never hurt anyone.
And if it did, they'll forgive you.

The Tarot Court: The Queen of Cups

There are moments in life, when the heart is so full of emotion
That if by chance it be shaken, or into its depths like a pebble
Drops some careless word, it overflows, and its secret,
Spilt on the ground like water, can never be gathered together
--Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (American Poet, 1807-1882)

With some people, you never have to guess what they are feeling, and it's not because they have
chosen to display their emotions to the world, it's that they simply cannot do otherwise. Their
emotions are the water in which they live and move and by which they navigate their daily lives.
Emotions, being inconstant and very powerful, are often mistrusted and therefore thought to be a
poor way to make one's decisions, but I wish the Greeks had never disparaged the passions that way
and ascribed them to the realm of "women." For in the dualistic Greek philosophies, all things
untameable, wild, free and mysterious were seen as base and therefore "feminine." The Greeks did
not deny the existence of emotion in men, obviously, but being ruled by one's emotions was
believed to be a shortcoming, not a strength. Control over one's passions was a much loftier goal,
lest one be found too "womanly."
"Men are no more immune from emotions than women; we think women are more emotional
because the culture lets them give free vent to certain feelings, "feminine" ones, that is, no anger
please, but it's okay to turn on the waterworks," wrote Una Stannard, feminist author. Here is where
the nuances of this Queen as well as her glaring stereotype crystalizes. She represents both the way
patriarchal influences have disparaged emotions as being weaker and "feminine" (read: bad), but
she also demonstrates the value of emotions and the strength of allowing them to guide and shape
our lives.
The negative beliefs about emotionalism still reigns in our attitudes today, and as such the Queen of
Cups is often seen as someone who indulges "too much" in waves of feelings, illustrated above as
the Queen of Cups from the Tarot of Durer drinks deeply and sensuously from her cup. She's
viewed as inconstant, prone to too much idealism and flights of fancy, she's romantic, dreamy, and
otherworldly. She cries a lot, laughs a lot, and seems a bit too childlike. Personally, I do not find
anything negative about someone who is so in touch with their emotions that they wouldn't
understand how to live without them being so prominent and on the surface. This Queen is double
water as she embodies the Queen's element of water as well as the cups' water element, so she is

"water of water" and yes, that's a lot of water. If one is comfortable and accepting of one's own
emotions, this Queen can be seen as more positive than negative, and even honored for her abilities
to navigate her own as well as others' emotions with skill and familiarity.
This queen makes a tremendous counselor, artist, mother, and therapist. She is empathic and
intuitive, often to a freakishly psychic degree. She may come across as naieve, but she isn't. She has
sailed the rough seas and knows how to survive the onslaught of stormy emotional waves. If
someone is in crisis, she is the one to call. She'll talk you down from the ledge, soothe your fears,
and make sense of the chaos in your heart and soul. She knows the secrets of the heart and honors
the pulse of it as it overtly or covertly moves you. Though many of us wish to deny it, she knows
the strength of emotions and doesn't try to rationalize or whitewash their importance in logical
sounding theories and formulas. In the Queen of Cup's embrace, you are accepted fully.
True enough, she is apt to drown her sorrows in too much drink, too many heartfelt displays of
dramatic weeping and wailing, and yet it's not the "drama queen" put on of say, Scarlett O'Hara whose
crocodile tears were simply a mechanism of emotional manipulation. Scarlett, I think, is much more
a Queen of Wands, but we can debate that if you like. The Queen of Cups truly feels the pain as
deeply as is being displayed, though the crisis may only have been a torn hangnail. While the Queen
of Cups can and will use emotional manipulation, it is less calculated. It comes so naturally to her,
she may not even realize she is doing it, but her skillful knowledge of the emotional landscape of
others gives her the advantage that way, and if her emotions turn sour, she is likely to use that
knowlege to her own ends. When ill-aspected at her worst, this queen can show symptoms of
Borderline Personality Disorder, a pathological clinging vine that blows hot and cold emotions as a
way of getting her own emotional needs sated.
As an advisor, the Queen of Cups urges getting in touch with your own heart and feeling your way
through a situation. She recommends showing how you feel, not hiding your emotions, and
recognizing and honoring the emotions of others. She asks you to walk sensitively around your own
heart and the hearts of others and to use the emotional lessons you have learned not to grow a
hardened shell of emotional protection, but to allow your emotions their just due and respect.
Realize that when she shows up in your readings, if she is not representing another person playing a
part in the situation, she is telling you to acknowledge emotions first and rather than think your way
through things, but turn to your empathic intuition and feel what the right course will be. For
emotions, if walled or dammed, will eventually work their way through the slightest opening and
forcefully rush and flood the entire landscape. Directing the flow of emotion through one's life is
more productive and there's a lot less of a mess to clean up afterwards.

The Tarot Court: The Queen of Swords

"...This is the paradox of vision: Sharp perception softens our existence in
the world." -Susan Griffin (b. 1943), U.S. author and feminist.
Gossip! Shrew! Bitter old woman! Possibly you've heard she's a bitch, a
widow, or an old maid. These are typical of the associations you might find
digging around old tarot books for the Queen of Swords. Waite's divinitory
meanings for this card are: "Widowhood, female sadness and
embarrassment, absence, sterility, mourning, privation, separation."

Reversed: "Malice, bigotry, artifice, prudery, bale, deceit...A bad woman with ill-will towards the
Querent." Nice, right? One of the effects feminism has had on tarot can be found in the more
updated meanings of this queen, as these older meanings, I believe were more a result of the
patriarchal disparagement of a woman who exhibits her strong qualities than of a true assessment of
her character.
This woman is sharp witted, very astute, nothing gets past her. She has an extraordinary bullshit
detector. Most times, she'll let you slide with nothing more than a knowing look, but if she thinks
you've gone too far she'll call you out and you will shrivel under the glare of her pointed words that
unveil your duplicity as easily as slipping the skin off a ripe banana. She's brilliant and perceptive,
with a strong intuitive sense that, combined with her ability for rational thought makes her seem
almost psychic. Mostly it comes from the fact that she is a keen observer and she understands the
interaction of the human psyche with behavior and emotions such that she is able to accurately
predict what another person is likely to do. The element of the tarot
queens is water, the emotional, life-nourishing force that navigates
and flows throughout human interaction. The Queens, like their
historical counterparts, are natural diplomats and negotiators due to
this watery element to their natures. This queen's suit element is air,
the element of active thought, communication, and conflict. She is
"water of air" where the water tempers the nonemotional logical air
and softens the icy blast with a humidity that quenches the breath.
So where did she garner such a negative reputation? Wisdom of her
kind often comes from sad experience. She has often been through
some fairly tragic life trials and has come away understanding much
about human nature and herself. She is independent and sometimes
prefers her own thoughts to the company of others. She isn't
emotionally dependent and as such is happy with or without a mate.
True, her sharp mind and tongue can wound when directed in anger.
This woman can be spiteful, mean, and verbally abusive if she is
crossed. Her preferred tactic would probably be more an icy silence that speaks more than words
ever could. She is not above telling tales about one who has betrayed her, so by far she's not always
someone you can trust.
This queen is undoubtedly one of the most feminist queens in the deck, not that each of them don't
have their strong, womanly attributes, but she is one who patriarchy once disparaged for precisely
those strengths and has come to be recognized for her true character and celebrated for the talented
and critical-thinking woman that she is. Her meaning in tarot has evolved the most of all the queens
in tarot due to the raising of feminist consciousness among the general population and among tarot
readers specifically who, being predominantly intelligent women in their own right, could not abide
the slander of the mighty Queen of Swords.
Robin Wood Tarot by Robin Wood Copyright 1999 Published by Llewellyn Worldwide
The Gilded Tarot by Ciro Marchetti Copyright 2004 Published by Llewellyn Worldwide

The Tarot Court: The Queens

"Though pedantry denies,
It's plain the Bible means
That Solomon grew wise
While talking with his queens...."
-William Butler Yeats (1865-1939) "On Woman."

What exactly did a Queen do? Was her role merely as a

consort to a King or did she have other specific duties? Well,
the answers to those questions depends on the Queen. History
is a mixed bag where queens are concerned with some
serving as adornment and makers of heirs while others held
power and authority at full throttle. Most were the ultimate
diplomats and served as negotiators between conflicting
lands.
Mostly, I think, it depended upon their own personalities whether they chose to take a more active
or passive role in politics and intrigue, and as was true in history the same is reflected in the Tarot
Queens as each has their own personalities and manner. The Queens that held the most power were
those whom, upon inheriting the throne, refused to marry. There is a difference between power and
authority and while queens often held tremendous power they, unless they were the sole monarch,
had little authority. Therefore, they often found ways to exert their will more subtly and with more
diplomacy than say, giving an outright order. Some might say they were the power behind the
workings of the monarchy and indeed they often were. Sometimes without the knowlege of the
king. Some were treacherous and some were loyal, so there really isn't one composite sketch of a
queen that can be drawn.
In Spinning Clio: Where History and Politics Meet author

Marc posts about the role of Medieval Queens:

"To generalize a bit, queens during the EMA [Early Middle Ages] were one of a small number of influential advisors at court and thus had a
greater advisory role to the king. During the High Middle Ages of the 12th-15th century, royal courts had become more complex and the
influx of new officials tended to reduce the role of the queen in governmental matters... Thus, the primary importance of the Queen shifted
from being a royal consort who could wield power in her own right to being the vehicle through which the royal blood was continued. Her
womb was her most valuable commodity. Yet, an individual queens actual power still depended on her relative strength of position as kings
consort and her own personal power, which both tended to be greater the smaller the size of the royal court. "

See? Even he says, "It depends on the queen."

Of course it does. It always has.

The Tarot Court: The Knight of Pentacles

'Tis known by the name of perseverance in a good cause, and of
obstinacy in a bad one
- Laurence Sterne (Irish born English Writer, 1713-1768)
You may have noticed in some of my other descriptions of the

knights of tarot that I made exception for this knight, the Knight of Pentacles. Where I pointed out
the lack of staying power and unreliability in the others, this one comes through with just those
qualities. It is, in fact, what distinguishes him not just from the other knights but from all the tarot
court. His word is his bond, he is fiercely loyal and if he takes on a task you can be sure it will be
done and done well, if not at the time appointed. He is so terribly thorough he will take all the time
necessary to complete a job even if you might think he's taking unnecessary pains.
You see, his methodical nature insists that he first have a plan. Not a rough draft, not a sketch, no,
he needs blueprints with measurements and maps drawn to scale. A 3-D model maybe, too. He must
know ahead of time the tools he will need and he must know how to use them properly. Then and
only then will he commence. Then, on the journey, he will take the most efficient route, not the
shortcut if it proves risky or dangerous, and not the highway either if it takes him too far out of the
way or if he has learned of construction delays. He drives the speed limit and fills up the gas tank
before he goes. He watches the mile markers, too. If it doesn't make practical sense to stop at that
interesting looking shop or scenic site, he won't, especially if he told someone at the other end of
the journey that he would be there by a certain time. A bit of a tight ass? Yes, definitely. He's sure he
knows the best way to do something and it's his way or no way. If you want something done, he's
the man for the job, but it's best if you just leave him to it else you're liable to tear your hair out in
the process. He's a bit of a control freak, so just let him have his way or he'll drive you crazy with
his insistence and persistence.
He's often pictured astride his horse but not going anywhere. He's often well armored and guarded
with a shield. These depictions aren't meant to say he doesn't get anywhere, he does, but in his own
time. His comprehensive approach simply means he spends a lot of time preparing, but when he
does move he can move quickly if that is what is called for, and there is no questioning the success
of the endeavor. He stands in contrast to the other knights who are rushing off on this or that quest
often ill-prepared with merely their passion and ideas in tow. This guy had to have been an Eagle
Scout because the Boy Scout Motto is his own.
Being a knight, he does embody the element of fire, of active energy, so don't let his stationary
appearance fool you. It's just that as "fire of earth" he knows how to keep that fire smouldering at
just the right temperature to get things cooking. Which leads me to another aspect of the pentacles
court that I haven't mentioned, probably because last time I was talking about the Page and it just
isn't seemly to talk about sex with pages (erotic decks excepted), but this knight and all the pentacles
people are very earthy and luxurious in their sexual tastes. The pentacles folk love the good things
in life, the things that bring physical delight and comfort and as such are very sensuous. And this
knight can last all night. Most associate making love with cups (emotion) and wands (passion), but
pentacles has its own sensuous style and its symbolism is directly associated with the Devil, that horny
hotness himself, the Lord of the Material World. Very sexy people these.
As advice the Knight of Pentacles would tell you to slow down and make sure you've dotted all
your i's and crossed all your t's. Go over the fine print. Make sure your ass is covered. He also
encourages you to keep your promises and stay true to your commitments. If you're weary and
tempted to quit he beckons you to keep at it, keep grinding away at it and you will see success.
Conversely, if a situation has been stagnant for some time, you might see this knight as telling you
you're being a bit stubborn and could stand to compromise a bit, for his sight can be a tad too
narrow when he's fixated on his own stuff. That's a tough call to make sometimes in a reading,
whether to give in or keep plodding on because sometimes success may be just around the corner

out of sight, or we may be going in circles. It's hard to tell sometimes, so be very aware of the
surrounding cards with this one.
The Knight of Pentacles, for all his seeming stodgyness, is really a true blue friend, faithful to the
end, and really, everyone needs someone like him in their corner. Even though obstinate and careful
to a fault, follow-through is assured. It's really nice to know there are some people that can truly be
counted on.

The Tarot Court: The Knight of Wands

Ok, the party has begun, the Knight of Wands is here! Oh, you
weren't planning on a party? Too bad. He brings the party with
him. Eager to try most anything once, or twice, this young man
creates a stir wherever he goes. Are you game? No? He's got game
enough for you both. He's charming, flashy, charismatic, and
bursting with energy. Wooo hoo, here we go! Hang on!
I particularly like the DruidCraft image of the Knight of Wands
because of the movement and energy depicted as well as the fact
that he's one of the only knights in tarot I've ever seen grinning like
that. He looks at you with a sideways twinkle in his eye from just
under his helm as he bounds over hills and across grassy fields. If
it's an adventure, he's up for it and he's bound to enjoy it. This one
will likely bring a smile to your face, too. His enthusiasm is
infectious and his antics are amusing. He's full of swagger,
boasting, and bravado, but there's something about that wink that
tells you he doesn't take himself, or much of anything, too
seriously.
What he lacks in skill, he makes up for in confidence, and that alone will usually tide him over. He
has no fear and will take on a challenge just for the sport of it. He's competitive and doesn't like to
lose. Sometimes, if angered, you'll find out how much a poor sport he can be. He lashes out quickly,
sometimes violently, in fits of fleeting rage. He can pop off with little provocation, but just as
quickly calm down and move on. Thing is, like all the other knights, save the Knight of Pentacles,
he just doesn't have the maturity to see much of anything through to completion. He'd rather start
things than finish them, dabbling in various activities and interests. If there's one thing he cannot
tolerate is being bored. That's a problem because he bores quickly. He hops from job to job, might
have enough college credits for three degrees, but actually has none completed. He needs a lot of
stimulation and really cannot stay in one place, or one relationship, too long. He has the reputation
as a Player, a guy who finds 'em, fucks 'em, and forgets them. His conquests are left to sort out their
own dizziness in the wake of this whirlwind. Though as much as that behavior may leave you cold,
there's just something about this character that you can't hate. He'll leave you with a smile even if
he's just turned your whole world inside out.
As elements go, this knight is "fire of fire." Whoa. That's a lot of energy. But without any other
elements to temper this flame, he sometimes rages out of control or quickly dies out. One or the
other, because there's nothing to keep it slowly, temperately burning. He's got two settings: On and
Off. His energy can be quite welcome at the right moment, or you just want him to go away. Now.
Stop it.

When the Knight of Wands appears in a tarot reading, he's advising a highly enthusiastic, active
approach. Take the bull by the horns, damn the torpedos, full speed ahead! Don't think, ACT!
Foolhardy bravery is what's called for here because it might be the only way you'll accomplish this.
If he's a person likely to be involved, prepare for assiness extraordinaire. He'll charge in, do what
needs doing, and then wink and say, "I knew I could do it. It was EASY." If you want some fun, he's
just the one to help. Wanna go bungee-jumping? Sure! He'll be the first one to yell, "Road trip!"
Conversely, if you find yourself itching to jump in with both feet where angels fear to tread, he
could be advising you to check your impulses. Are you acting too hastily? What about the
consequences? That's a really long drop...can you make it? And anyway, weren't you supposed to
babysit your niece this weekend? Should you just run off to the 3-day Rock Festival in the next
state?
The one thing about most of the knights, and especially this one, is their effect is rather short-lived.
He's a party alright, but he doesn't last forever. He ties one on and leaves you with the hangover the
morning after. So if a bit of kicking up your heels is the right medicine, he's great company. Just
remember who pays the dues. Here's a hint: it's not him.

The Tarot Court: The Knight of Cups

"... no knight can be brave unless he is in love, love gives the
knight his courage." -Lecoy de la Marche, A. La Charre francaise au moyen age
This is one of my favorite art prints. Oh my God, can't you just feel
forbidden love's agony? It's called "Meeting on the Turret Stairs"
by Pre-Raphaelite artistFredrick Burton. I'm a sucker for this kind of
tragic, uber-romantic codswallop. Sigh. This type of "love" was in
fact made an institution in the middle ages: courtly love. A knight
would focus his amorous attentions on an unavailable noble lady
and seek to win her favor. The affair was often unconsummated, for
adultery was viewed with such seriousness that a man could be
executed for it. But humans being what we are, I'm sure that little
legality didn't stop many. Marriages were often loveless, as they
were political and arranged for land and negotiation rather than
love. So the emotional outlets were through the practice of courtly
love, and, well...emotions are not so
easily restrained.
Here enter the Knight of Cups. He is love's passion personified. He is
the poet, the dreamer, the great romantic. He may be a sweet-talker
but this one actually believes his own drivel. He thrives on it. Roses?
Check. Candles? Check. A song written especially for his beloved?
Check. He wants to know how you feel and he wants to express his
feelings too. This guy not only will go to the chick flick with his
date, but rent them himself at the video store. To him, emotions are
key to his actions, if he isn't feeling it, he won't do it, or at least not
well. He falls in love about every other week, and it's not infatuation

for him, it is L-O-V-E. He doesn't seem to understand the ebb and flow of the tides of his own heart,
so he doesn't really mean to be so fickle, but as his heart leads there he goes. You might find him in
any field of work, but underneath you will find an artist, a lover of literature, music, and film. He
dreams big dreams, he lives life passionately, and will sweep the object of his affection off her feet.
Problem with foot-sweeping is the fall.
See, being of fire element as a Knight, he may be ripe with passion and energy, impulsive and
active, but together with the element of his suit, water, things can get steamy for sure, or all that
water just might put the fire out. He is "fire of water" and I'm not quite sure what that is. Wet wood
doesn't burn, it just makes a lot of smoke, spits and hisses a lot. Maybe it's much ado about nothing.
Basically, if this knight doesn't learn to temper his emotions he finds the fire going out entirely too
soon. To him, this is no bother, as he will direct his attention to the next fancy. However, as
endearing as he may be, it's hard to get him to actually do anything, much like the unconsummated
courtly love affairs of old.
When this knight appears in a reading, he often heralds an ardent romantic admirer. More often than
not, this court card usually does represent an actual person who is trying to "court" you in some way
and his way of approach is through your emotions. It's a soft sell, but an efficient one, especially if
you tend towards the cups inclinations as well. As advice, he often prompts you to consider feelings
in the matter, especially your own, but of others as well. He asks you to consider doing what it is
you love, what really speaks to your emotional side, and to understand that when you love what you
do, you naturally do it well. He also gives a nudge to those who have been admiring someone they
fancy from afar and with a knowing wink he says, "Go for it."
Conversely, he could likewise be telling you that you may be apt to lose interest in something or
someone too quickly, and to check how deep your emotions in this matter truly go. Because if you
are simply caught up in the moment and not truly committed, it won't last. Are you making
promises based on something fleeting? Don't. Is your head in the romantic clouds? Come back to
earth, please. While being "in love with love" is a wonderful feeling, it can leave the soul
unsatisfied when the wanderlust has worn off.

The Tarot Court: The Knight of Swords

I cannot, nor I will not hold me still; My tongue, though not my
heart, shall have his will. - William Shakespeare, The Comedy of Errors (Adriana at
IV, ii)

Ok, now we're talking. The Knight of Swords, one of the purest
assholes you'll ever meet. You'll know you've had a run-in with
him when you find a brand new orifice has just been deftly sliced
open in your nether regions. Tongue-lasher extraordinaire, you
probably don't want to tangle with him when he's all fired up. He
won't spare your feelings, he's extremely direct and more often
than not he's also quite right. He's not just blowing off steam, he
cuts right to the heart of the matter with his keen insight and has
just the right words that will lay bare the problem at hand. He may
or may not cuss you out, he'll probably find and use other more
suitable terms, and they will cut even deeper than if he just went
off on you in some kind of emotional frenzy. But see, that's just it.

It's NOT an emotional frenzy and hence not so easily dismissed. This is an intense, logical, rational
ass-whooping.

Knights are of the element of fire. Fire elements are marked by passion and commitment, creativity,
and yes, anger, too. The Knight of Swords suit element is air which represents the intellect, reason,
and communication. Combined, he is "fire of air" and I think we know what happens when a fierce
wind blows a fire through the brush. Fire thrives on air, on oxygen, and burns it as fuel. Thus, the
Knight of Swords' intellect fuels his passions and provides the reason for his actions. As a Knight,
his youthful bravado and idealism brings forth someone who is committed and quite sure of his own
ideas and who clings to them with fierce devotion. He's an ace problem-solver who doesn't let
emotions get in the way. When he's not shredding someone else's arguments, he's actually quite
reserved and above petty exchanges. He's calm and thoughtful, and he is quite the witty
conversationalist when you want someone with whom to exchange ideas. But true to his knightly
nature, he's not liable to stick around long and can be quite unreliable. He's always off on another
adventure or quest, so I wouldn't look for deep commitment with this one. Also, his lack of emotion
can be a problem for those with whom he interacts, for when he is reversed or ill-dignified, this
knight can be utterly cruel and even seem to take perverse delight in the emotional suffering of
others. Unable to empathize with others feelings, he may display the qualities of a pathological
narcissist, someone so full of himself that others function merely as pawns in his game, and if they
don't agree with his assessment of things, they are cut off mercilessly.
As advice the Knight of Swords may be telling you to take the direct approach to a problem or
situation. He would advise you not to mince words, don't let your feelings drive you. Rather,
approach things logically, dispassionately, and with forceful aim and let the chips fall where they
may. At times, this is precisely what is needed and will yield the results you want. At other times,
and actually I have found this interpretation true more often, he may be warning you that you're
acting too hastily, jumping to conclusions, and that you're ready to take
someone's head off that may or may not deserve it. So think of the long
term consequences of following through before you take this knight's
lead.

The Tarot Court: "Be Thou a Knight"

Surviving squirehood, a young man
of medieval Europe advanced to
knighthood at around the age of 21.
When the young man had
completed his training in not only
battle skill but social and courtly
skills as well, he was ready to
become a knight, and would be
honoured as such in a ceremony
(represented in this pre-Raphaelite
piece "The Accolade"by Edmund Blair
Leighton) known as "dubbing"
(knighting) from the French
"adoubement". The squire would

hold a vigil, praying into the night. He was then ritually bathed, and in the morning he was dressed
in a white shirt, gold tunic, purple cloak, and was knighted by his king or lord. As the Middle Ages
progressed, the process changed. The squire was made to vow that he would obey the regulations
of chivalry, and never flee from battle. A squire could also be knighted on the battlefield, in much
abbreviated fashion, in which a lord simply performed the accolade, striking him on the shoulder
saying Be thou a knight.
By the 1500's when tarot was developed, knighthood was already declining and knights in shining
armor were mostly confined to the jousting field. The honorific title of knight conferred for civil
service rather than military valor began in about 1560 and continues to today. Therefore, even in
tarot's earliest form, the knights were more symbolic than literal. Even though military knights
certainly still existed then, they had already become romanticized. Modern monarchies of that era
had already begun to switch to standing armies, professional soldiers, rather than knights, who had
become a land-owning noble class all their own. Knights were then associated more with chivalraic
notions and an historically stereotyped role of those who fought for their monarch in brave and
unyielding loyalty, which in actuality often veered far from the truth. Knights were not above using
their wealth and influence to corrupt ends. In theory, knights were the warrior class defending the
people of feudal Christianity and bound by a code of chivalry but this code was perhaps less
scrupulously observed. In reality, rules were often bent or blatantly broken by knights as well as
their masters, for power, goods or honour. So-called robber knights or robber barons would run
organized crime rings from their estates or castles.
As in life, so it is in tarot, the Knights in tarot are honorable and dishonorable, positive and negative
in their traits and actions. Their element is fire, the creative, active force that fuels ideas and gets
things moving and accomplished. Knights go on "quests" -- they have missions, and so when you
see a Knight in tarot you might ask yourself what is his mission, what is he trying to accomplish?
His suit will tell you how he will go about it, as well as what is most important to him. Given the
same mission or directive, each of the four knights will approach the goal differently according to
his own ideas and personality. Regardless, they will get it done and show you the recommended
approach to ensure success. Or not. Knights bring energy and movement to a situation, but
depending on what you would like to see accomplished, the reading might show the wrong knight
for the job. The situation might call for a meticulously slow and dedicated approach, so if say, the
Knight of Swords pays a visit for that job, you might need to put on the brakes and restrain yourself.
Knights, like all court cards, are not necessarily literally young 20-something men. They can be
male or female, young or old. It is this exuberant, youthful, get-there-or-die-trying characteristic
that is found in all of us, given the right circumstances, that the knights are portraying. Though their
energy is admirable, they tend to have that egocentric tendency that younger men have, complete
with a distinct sense of invincibility. This makes them short sighted and impulsive, and a bit too
sure that they are right. They also possess, with the exception of the Knight of Pentacles, a distinct
lack of "sticktoitiveness." (The Knight of Pentacles has a bit too much of that, he's not easily
swayed from anything he sets his mind to, which can be a problem at times, too.) You can depend
on the Knights for the short term, but rarely for the long term. Their immaturity is displayed by their
bravado and rash tempers, their lack of thinking things through, and an inability to pace themselves
in a realistic fashion.
Even with their distinct flaws, I thoroughly enjoy the knights in tarot. Their energy and enthusiasm
is usually welcome and can bring a fresh insight and spark to things and remind you how it feels to
be young and ready to take on the world by your own lights. If nothing else they are passionate and

responsive. While not always welcome when you had hoped for more stability, or when you don't
really have enough information or understanding, acting first and thinking later can be a problem.
They can exasperate, especially if you are on the receiving end of a fierce knight on a mission, you
can be left picking up the pieces after they tromp through your life on their mighty steeds. But
exciting? Yes, definitely.

The Tarot Court: The Page of Pentacles

There's a saying that I believe is attributed to Will Rogers:
There are three kinds of men. The ones that learn by readin'. The few
who learn by observation. The rest of them have to pee on the
electric fence for themselves.
The latter is the Page of Pentacles. This one needs to put theories to
the test, check out the results, and get his hands dirty in the process.
He wants results from his efforts and he doesn't much care how long
or arduous the process is to get them. He's got time, he's not in a
rush, his motto is "Anything worth doing is worth doing well." As a
result, this Page has garnered the reputation of The Student.
The image to the right is from the Hudes Tarot Deck. He is dressed not
unlike a university student of days past, cap and gown. In this deck,
Hudes used marbelized and florentine paper patterns such as found in
the end leafs of books to distinguish the different suits. In this image
she used the pattern of the pentacles suit on the Page's cap to, I believe, symbolize his quest for
knowledge. He has a firm grasp on the marbelized pentacle, which guides his direction to things
known. In order for him to learn, he must be able to grasp it in his hands, see it with his eyes.
Knowledge is tangible to him and without proof, he is unlikely to believe or even understand it very
well. To him, the end result is what is most important, to work towards a solid goal, to see the
reward. His focus is on the practical, the earthly rather than the esoteric.
You can depend on this one. He will get the job done. It might take him a really long time, though,
because he will have to do every step just so. He'll have to learn as he goes, too, and that will take
some more time. He's not about to skip a step or take an untried shortcut. And he probably won't
take someone else's word for it, either. If he hasn't already done something, he's going to
meticulously research it first, compare prices, look up reports, check out the competition, watch
trends. He was probably the one who came up with the rule: "Measure twice, cut once." He is most
unlike the Page of Wands who acts first, then thinks. That's because being a Page his element is
earth and being pentacles, which is also earth, he is "earth of earth." Good grief, this one is as slow
as molasses.
As one who is always regretting she didn't use a level first and mark the placement on the wall
before hanging a framed picture, I have an appreciation for this Page. I should be so thorough. I am
also a perennial student. In fact, after a twenty-year hiatus, I recently began attending college again
last year. After that long a break, it all seemed new again and I was definitely in the seat of The
Student once again. While this Page's meticulousness is not my overall style, I can definitely see his
usefulness once in a while, especially where certain projects are concerned. So when he appears in a
reading he may be advising you to slow down, take notes, research and learn more about what you

want to do before you do it. Understand that if you want something worthwhile, it's going to take
some time and diligent effort. Good things come to those who patiently attend to the task and don't
skip any steps. Conversely, if you tend to always play the student, he might be asking you if you
aren't feeling a bit inferior to someone else, not allowing your own ideas and skill to come to the
fore.
As a messenger, this Page brings actual, tangible messages. Real mail in your mailbox. A bouquet
of roses at your office or tickets to a concert or other event. He brings news of money matters, both
increase and loss. A dear friend of mine, concerned about me being down in the dumps, once played
the Page of Pentacles with a delivery of gingerbread scones with maple butter and a sweet card
deposited at my door early one morning. The message was kind and uplifting, but oh, were those
scones delicious! She certainly did brighten my day in a very real and tangible way. So, you see, the
Page of Pentacles often brings something you need, or want, or need to know, and what's great
about his messages is they come with a gift you can taste, feel, hold, or use.

The Tarot Court: The Page of Wands

Unlike in days of yore when Pages were strictly boys, today's
tarot often depict girls or women in the Page position.
Sometimes they are called "Princess" or "Herald" instead of
Page, but they are nonetheless functioning in the role of
Page: the newcomer, student, messenger, servant. The Page
of Wands often deviates from this role, however, as he or she
can be a bit of an upstart. This Page often has his or her own
idea about how something needs to be done and they
impulsively follow their own lead and create their own paths
in life.
The Princess of Staves in The Lovers Path Tarot by Kris
Waldherr is a really fine example of a woman with her own
mind who illustrates the qualities of the Page of Wands in all
her sometimes erratic and firey ways. Kris chose Brunnhilde
to represent this rebel and what an excellent choice it was.
Brunnhilde was known as a mighty female warrior, one of the Valkyries, who were the messengers
ofOdin, the primary god in Norse mythology. They were primarily corpse goddesses who fought
and roamed the battlefields looking for worthy warriors to take to Valhallah. In Norse legend,
Brunnhilde defied Odin by deciding against his preferred king in
a battle so he imprisoned her within a ring of fire on earth (or,
depending on the version of the story you read, he might have
imprisoned her in a remote castle behind a wall of shields on top
of mount Hindarfjall in the Alps instead) decreeing that there she
would remain in sleep (because Odin knew if you leave this
firey maiden to her own devices she would figure a way out)
until a brave hero rescued her. Siegfried braved the fire, broke
her charmed sleep, and fell in love with her. Who wouldn't?
This Page of fire is apt to defy authority, not just because they
have issues with authority as much as they simply become

inspired by their own ideas and think they can do the required task in a different and better way.
These Pages are creative and courageous, or maybe they have a bad case of thinking they're
invincible, but whatever the case they will always being trying out new and different things. Not
much holds their interest for very long and they seem to hop from one passion to the next with
alarming, distracted speed. These guys are very hyper and may even have attention deficit disorder
and can't sit still for long unless playing video games which, by the way, they are very good at
because they're always coming up with different ways to approach the problems presented in the
games. This is their greatest strength. Elementally this Page is "earth of fire" which, together,
simply fuels each other. Fire uses earth to burn but also enriches the earth with ash which makes the
earth more fertile. Wherever this Page goes, she finds inspiration to fuel her next idea and
adventure.
Trouble comes via her inability to clearly think through her plans before acting on them. Half-baked
schemes and ideas provoke just as much response and really brilliant ones, so she might find herself
in various pickles. But these don't tend to thwart her as she will either quickly come up with another
way around the problem or she'll drop the project altogether because she thought of something else
to do instead. So as advice this Page may be cautioning you to think through your grand ideas a bit
more before putting them into play as they might yet be immature and not ready for action.
Conversely, if you are more apt to think and plan something to death and find it difficult to act on
your ideas, this Page could be saying Just Do It! Do something, anything, because it's better than
just sitting there.
Often, the Page of Wands is depicted in tarot decks as traveling, going to distant lands and moving
about. They can bring news from far away, quickly, as through email or instant message. They can
also bring news that you will be traveling, such as being told by your boss that you will need to
attend a conference in Borneo next week. Timewise, these Pages act quickly and suddenly, so
whatever news is coming expect it soon and be ready to grab the opportunity and act on it because it
also quickly passes out of sight.

The Tarot Court: The Page of Cups

There's something about this guy that just makes me go,
"Awwwwww!" He's so sweet. He reminds me of my son, Josiah,
when he was a little boy. Josiah would pat my knee and say, "I
neeeed a hug," several dozen times a day. If scolded for
wrongdoing he would blink tears away from those deep brown
eyes and just look so wounded that you just had to hug him even
if you were angry with him. He's now 13 years-old and still as
sweet and sensitive. (I'm sure he would just cringe if he heard me
say that.) There is a soft innocence to the Page of Cups that can
melt your heart.
I chose the Housewives Tarot Page of Cups not only because he
brings a smile to my face...how could he not? Look at him!...but
also because it portrays the elemental combination of this Page
very nicely. Pages are represented by the earth element and this
Page, being of the suit of cups, is of water. Therefore, the Page of
Cups is known as "earth of water." Here, the Page is shown

watering flowers with the faces of his loved ones on them and beneath the earth are heart shaped
roots. He is barefoot in the dirt and his trousers are muddied. He clearly receives a lot of pleasure
from expressing his feelings with those he loves and feels very at home in doing the earthly,
tangible things that show his affections. He doesn't just talk about how he feels, he demonstrates his
feelings with acts of service and gifts. His naivete is usually charming, and his gifts may be things
like, "I was taking a walk and thinking about you and I picked up this really pretty rock for you."
His gifts are often handmade and very thoughtful. He spends so much time on them, making them
just so, thinking of the recipient of his handiwork the entire time.
This Page is playful, inquisitive, sensitive, and honest. He or she cries easily, but laughs just as
easily. She doesn't hold grudges and is quick to forgive. She often has a slightly less than practical
view of relationships and life, preferring her fantasy version over reality, and clings stubbornly to
romantic and idealized notions of how things ought to be. Her earth element causes her to believe
that if she puts in the efforts to love, then how could she not be loved in return? She also expects
others to return her love in like manner, thereby leaving her open to frequent disappointment and
heartache when other people don't tread carefully on her sensitive feelings.
When this Page appears in a reading he could be showing you a side of yourself that clings to
romantic or idealized notions. He can come as a warning this way to guard your sensitive heart and
be aware that not everyone shares your feelings about the subject at hand. Conversely, as advice, the
Page of Cups may be encouraging you to be a bit more playful in your approach, NOT take things
so seriously, indulge in a bit of romantic fantasy and play, let your inner child out and see things,
emotionally, with fresh eyes. He may also be hinting that you might want to show those in your life
how you feel about them with a tangible display of your feelings with a heartfelt gift maybe.
As a messenger, the Page of Cups may herald a new love or friendship, a relationship that engages
your heart and which brings new emotional energy to your life. Traditionally it is said that the Page
of Cups may bring news of a baby, a new birth, but personally I have not seen this evident in my
own readings. I can see how he could, but I usually see him coming to bring messages of an
emotional nature, and not that a baby announcement is not emotional, it is, but the kinds of
messages I have seen him deliver are more along the lines of, "I miss you!" or "I thought you could
use cheering up today," with a plate of your favorite muffins.
There is very little that is inherently negative about the Page of Cups except her tendency to get hurt
easily. That's not her fault, really. She hasn't, and likely won't
develop the tough shell of a crab to defend herself. In many decks
her companion is a fish which symbolizes the spiritual, intuitive
nature of this Page and her ease with emotions. However, when
upset this Page can become tiresome with her tears and frequent
need to be treated with kid gloves. Sometimes they can exasperate
you and you just want to shake them and say, "Get real!" or
"Knock it off!" But then you feel like a total louse because they
give you that wide-eyed look that says, "How could you do that to
me? Why did you?" More than likely you'll then not only be
patting their heads about whatever it was that upset them in the
first place, but now also profusely apologizing for being insensitive
yourself. Tiptoeing around their feelings can be difficult at times,
but given the resiliance of their youthful outlook, these phases of

melancholy usually do not last long, thank goodness.

The Tarot Court: The Page of Swords

So my son, Jonathan, when he was a lot younger, says to me,
"Mom, how come leaves are green?"
"Because they produce their own food and it's green."
"No it isn't," he says.
"Um, yes it is," I counter.
"Nuh uh, sometimes it's red."
Ok, he had me there. Japanese Maples have red leaves. He used to
do this sort of thing all the time, still does, in fact, though his
questions have changed now that he's a teenager. On the one hand
you think, bright kid. On the other you think, god, he's such a snot.
Didn't I just get set up there? Why do I feel I was set up?
The Page of Swords is like that. Their minds go nonstop and
they're looking at things from all the angles, trying to figure out
twelve different things at one time. One question leads to another
and to another and sandwiched in between the questions are
statements about what they know that you don't. The Page of
Swords favorite question is "Why?" Running a close second is,
"How?" These mentally taxing people are usually very intelligent
with keen insight. They communicate well, if not verbally then in writing, and their natural curiosity
fuels their mental activity. They can be shy, though, or what comes across as shyness. What they're
really doing is sizing up a situation, mentally gathering information and processing it before they
feel comfortable enough to speak. When they do finally speak, they will dazzle you with their
newfound discoveries and mental and verbal gymnastics. Like that Knave (Page) of Swords up
there from The Fey Tarot.
The Page of Swords penchant for discovering new information has garnered him the reputation of a
"spy." This is someone who digs up the necessary scoop on situations, people, and ideas on his own.
He's not above cybersleuthing to find things out he feels he needs to know, in fact he sees the
internet as a valuable tool in his research. He's right, of course, and its just your own fault if you
happen to leave all your personal information available at the click of a Googlesearch. Talking with
him might feel as if you're being interrogated at times, as he fires off a volley of questions one after
another.
This is because while all Pages' element is Earth, the Sword Page's suit element is Air. So he is what
is called "earth of air." He wants his mental meanderings to be rooted in tangible fact. So he's going
to dig for the evidence to find their solid basis. This need is at the root of his constant questions
about why and how things are the way they are. His immaturity is usually evident in his arrogance,
his need to always be right, and he tends to show off a bit where his mental prowess is concerned.
He can be blunt, sometimes too blunt, like telling someone right off the bat they could stand to lose
a few pounds and here's how to do it: the body works like this, see, and when you eat things like
simple carbohydrates the body stores them when you don't use them, but if you eat complex
carbohydrates the body has to work harder at processing them....and so on. He is completely
oblivious to the fact that he just insulted you and truly thinks he's offering welcome information that

you want and need. Still, he's not too arrogant to admit he could be wrong, or he might need more
research, or that he still has to find out more. He'll often question his own conclusions and ask,
"Wait, did I get that right?"
As a messenger, the Page of Swords delivers truth and insight, facts and knowledge. In a reading he
may represent a piece of info you need, that last puzzle piece that allows you to see something
clearly. This may come, for example, as a call from your doctor with the test results or the letter
from your school advising you whether or not you passed a course and your grade in that course.
This is the web page you stumble on by accident that tells you precisely what you needed to know
in order to repair that broken thingamajig.
When the Page of Swords appears in a tarot reading he has much to say in the way of advice. His is
the way of research and honesty. He advises you to ground your thoughts in fact, think before you
speak, find out before you mouth off. He tells the reader there is usually more to this than meets the
eye and you need to cautiously proceed, observe a while longer, check your facts. When in the
position of another person in your reading he could indicate that that someone has a keen interest in
you and may be watching you from afar, checking you out. This is the potential employer checking
your references or the potential suitor watching you take the same bus as him every day and trying
to figure out if you're married or single or what. The Page of Swords could be telling you to speak
the truth bluntly, but make sure what you say really IS the truth and not just words intended to
pierce someone.

Tarot Court in the Stars

Recently, a 78 Notes reader, Tabitha, commented to me that while she'd always identified with the Queen of
Wands, astrologically/elementally speaking she might be more the Queen of Swords given that she is a Pisces
sun with Gemini rising, due to the base water element of all Queens and her water sign of Pisces and the air
element of her rising sign Gemini and Swords. I found her comment really interesting because, though I am
no astrologer and Tabitha and I may be straying off the charts (pun intended), it got me thinking about the
various planetary elemental associations with the tarot court. Maybe other tarot readers have already
discovered this and written about it, I don't know, so I apologize if I am reinventing someone else's wheel.
As far as tarot and astrology goes, my interaction with the combination is fairly limited, though I always love
to hear how others work with them together.

If you do not know the planetary alignments of your date, time, and place of birth, you can access one of
these useful charts for free at various websites such as AstroDienst. That site also has a clickable chart with
valuable information about what each planet in a chart means and specific descriptions regarding the
placements of your particular planets. Useful for we astrology novices who really can't remember what Pluto
does for you.
To associate your sun sign with a court card, your sun sign element and your rising sign would give you the
two elements for that association. For example, my sun is in Libra and my rising is Aries. Libra is an air sign
and Aries is a fire sign. Air is the base element for all tarot kings and wands is the suit of fire, so my
Sun/Rising tarot card would be King of Wands. This may be challenging to identify with because we
naturally gravitate toward our own gendered court card, women identifying with Queens and men with
Kings, so this moves a lot of us out of that predetermined box. The gender and ages of the courts aren't
supposed to be taken literally anyway.
Springboarding off of Tabitha's musings, I wondered if I could do this with other planets, such as Mercury,
which rules the way we communicate. I am Mercury in Libra so that is air/air. Therefore my Mercury tarot
court card would be King of Swords which gives me clues about how my mind works and how I communicate
with others. Venus in Scorpio would yield a King of Cups or a Queen of Swords modality in love and
relationships with its air/water combination. My moon is in Taurus, so my basic emotional level would be
King of Pentacles and/or Page of Swords with its air/earth combination.
I thought to combine the planetary element with the sign element rather than the Sun sign element, but there
isn't anything close to a consensus on which element is associated with each planet. For example, although
Mercury rules communication, it isn't necessarily an "air planet." It rules two signs, Gemini, which is an air
sign and Virgo, an earth sign. Here is where I usually get frustrated with overlaying any other system on top
of tarot because they don't neatly fit without bending and compromising one system or the other. While the
associations are interesting and give much food for thought and introspection, I would not grasp them too
tightly or identify too strongly. If the shoe doesn't fit, don't wear it. Remember, we are just experimenting
here.
Next step -- associating your planetary court cards within the twelve astrological houses. Once you have your
planetary court card associations, you can them use them within your chart to see how those qualities
interact with the houses. Using one's astrological chart, lay out the designated court cards (you would need
more than one tarot deck because court cards will likely be repeated throughout your chart) where they
appear on the different houses and determine how these court cards would behave and interact within those
placements. For more info on the meanings of the houses, you can simply web search "meanings of the
houses" and find a wealth of sites that explain them. For example, my Venus is not only in Scorpio but also

in the 8th House which is the house of death, rebirth, and others resources. That house shows how I deal
with separation and loss, how I renew and rebuild, and how I deal with legacies, inheritance, taxes, loans,
etc. Therefore, using a King of Cups as my Sun/Venus card in the 8th House, that can show me, based on
what I know to be the King of Cups qualities, how I tend to deal with those issues.
Whether these associations work out to be accurate portrayals is really up to the individual to decide. But I
think because we hold within ourselves all the qualities of all the court cards in varying measure, it may be
truly enlightening. Keep in mind also that no one planet, house, or court card is a summation of your entire
person, that each placement or association merely describes a piece of your own personal puzzle. While
some of the results may be totally on target, others may leave you scratching your head. In the end, what can
we do with this information? Just as I do not believe tarot determines your fate, neither does astrology nor
any combination thereof. While we may have specific tendencies inherent in our personalities, they only
limit us as much as we allow them to. The revealing of these tendencies is valuable information because once
we know what we're working with, our strengths and weaknesses, we can use them to our advantage in a
conscious manner.