Reading Tarot Cards: Meanings, Spreads, Interpretations

Tarot Card Definitions – The Hanged Man

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 12:21:00 +0000

Tarot Card Definitions – The Hanged Man

We will continue “Tarot Card Definitions” with the 12^th card of the Major Arcana: The Hanged Man.

Description:

It is almost the accepted truth in the Tarot community that the Hanged Man card is the strangest card in the deck. In fact, it is so odd that it has become virtually synonymous with the Tarot itself. The image portrayed here is one of a particularly nasty medieval punishment called “bafflement” in which the offender would be hung from his legs face down. Although some versions of this card show the Hanged Man to be in torment, most show him smiling as if contented with his strange fate.

Upright Meaning:

This card turns the world on its head. This card represents confusion, self-sacrifice, and spiritual rather than material benefits and a reversal of values. The Hanged Man can indicate a temporary reversal of fortunes; this could mean that in order to move on in life smoothly, you must pay back a karmic debt. This card can also mean that it is time to look at things from another angle, as your original perspective is entirely wrong. Things could feel out of your control, and you might feel helpless as you are being taken advantage of. But grain your teeth and bear the situation, because it is a rapid learning experience and the ultimate recipient of the benefits will be you. And attempt to change the situation now will be a waste of time and effort.

The upright meaning to this card can be summoned up in two words: passive and patience. Sometimes this card can quite literally indicate a period of illness and recuperation. The Hanged Man can show that you are or will soon be on a trial of passage, increasing your spiritual awareness as you move from one phase of your life to the next.

Reversed Meaning:

When reversed, the Hanged Man looks as though he were standing on one leg. This might mean that you are unable to let go of the past despite a strong desire to move on. There is also a chance that someone is using emotional blackmail to their advantage against you. On the other hand, it may be that you yourself are playing the part of a martyr. Ask yourself whether you are punishing yourself for something that was not your fault. When you have removed this misplaced masochistic kind of self-blame you will be free to move on.

Tarot Card Definitions – The Hanged Man

Tarot Card Definitions – Justice

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 04:47:00 +0000

Tarot Card Definitions –Justice

With the 11^th card of the Major Arcana: Justice, a juggling of the section title seems appropriate. “Meaning of each Tarot card” will now be re-titled to “Tarot Card Definitions”.

Description:

The familiar female figure of Justice sits enthroned, usually crowned with a heraldic “mural” crown resembling castle battlements. Unlike the Lady of Justice that stands outside law courts, Justice is rarely if ever blind n the Tarot system. This is because in traditional renderings of the card, Justice does not have her blindfold, and instead gazes boldly into the eyes of the viewer. The balance (representing fairness and equilibrium) is in her hand while the other grasps the sword of retribution and severity.

Upright Meaning:

The Justice card relates to the concepts of logic, fairness, equilibrium and impartiality in thought and deed, and a just attitude in all dealing with others. In order to answer your question, you will have to use reason and exercise a cool intellect mind. The Justice card points the way to giving and receiving fair advice. When upright, this also indicates that the judgments of powerful people will work in your favor.

Legal issues may be highlighted, for example legal contracts that will be found in your favor. In short, Justice shows success in all legal affairs and the probability of business proposals that will work to your advantage. Suggested in the card’s namesake, it can indicate the righting of a wrong that has been done to you in the past. It may even indicate a personal crusade to see justice done on behalf of someone else. It highlights issues of honesty, loyalty and idealism.

On a more spiritual level, the upright Justice card can be seen as the working out of positive karma. Perhaps for something good that you have in the past you are being rewarded. So, a run of particularly good luck is to be expected as the cosmic balance rights itself in your favor.

When the Justice card appears upright, it doesn’t necessarily mean a person will get everything he or she wants from a situation, but that what he or she does get will be fair and just.

Reversed Meaning:

Justice in both upright and reversed positions insists that a cool, calm, intellectual attitude will help you and your situation. So if the card shows up in a reading reversed, be cautious about making a decision. Think things over carefully or harm will come your way.

The reversed Justice literally has the opposite meaning to its right position. It is usually interpreted as injustice, decisions going against you even if you are morally in the right. This is especially troublesome if you are involved in any legal affairs. False accusations may be made against you and you could conceivably encounter some form of oppression or prejudice. Misinformation given to you through malice or simple misunderstanding can be very damaging. The reversed Justice card also shows self-seeking advisors, and you would be wise to choose who you confide in great care.

Think twice before signing any legal contracts. The trials and tribulations that you will go through will not be worth the effort and will tend to blight your life in some way.

Tarot Card Definitions – Justice

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Wheel of Fortune

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 04:28:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Wheel of Fortune

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 10 card of the Major Arcana: The Wheel of Fortune.

Description:

Apart from the central image of the Wheel itself, this card shows considerable variation between individual Tarot decks. On more modern decks, several strange creatures surround and hang on the wheel’s rim. The ascending creature is a baboon, which ascends; the descending creature is one of weird composite and finally, a sphinx sits smugly at the top.

Upright Meaning:

When this card appears in a reading, it means that a stroke of luck is on its way for you. The Wheel is spinning for you, and your life will take a turn for the better. But keep in mind that it is fate that has taken a hand in your affairs and given you a gift, so don’t start patting yourself on the back just yet. Whether upright or reversed, the Wheel indicates a temporary phase in life. If you are prudent, you will use this period of excellent luck to put something away for a time when things will become more difficult. Keep in mind that this is a Wheel, so as easily you are riding high due to the Wheel, just as easily you can be falling down, and fast.

Good luck signals the start of this period. You might find some money that you have left in jacket pockets, or other sources of small fortunes. Take note of the area in a reading where this card occurs, because this will be the area where your luck will come from.

Reversed Meaning:

There could be a few unpleasant surprises when the Wheel is reversed. Constant ups and downs in fortune will tend to confuse you, but remember it is the nature of the Wheel to turn, and this upsetting period will not last forever.

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Wheel of Fortune

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Hermit

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 04:24:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Hermit

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 9 card of the Major Arcana: The Hermit.

Description:

Unlike other cards, the Hermit card design has been fairly consistent over time and deck from deck. A solitary old man with a long, white beard is dressed somewhat like a friar or wandering monk bearing a staff. This gives the general impression of a penitent on pilgrimage.

The Hermit’s only source of light is the lamp that he is holding. Often the monk shields the lamp’s wan flame with his cloak. In the Waite version of the card, the Hermit stands on a cold, snowy mountain peak holding his lamp aloft. Actually, the Hermit’s lamp may be a rendering of an hourglass indicating the passage of time.

Upright Meaning:

This card obviously connected to solitude and deep thought, although this does not necessarily mean that you have to isolate yourself from others; although it can very well mean that you will do so in other to put your thoughts in order. It may be that you are prone to deep reflection even when surrounded by people, that this is an inner process rather than one found in the outside world. Whenever this card turns up, there will be a slowing down of events, the need for patience and the chance of a rethink. You must acceptance the delays that the Hermit card foretells, for they are necessary ones in order for things to move forward. You can now weigh your options and think things though in a cool, calm and deliberate frame of mind in order to prevent making a serious error.

The card is also connected to old age and the wisdom that is gained through experience. It may indicate a passage of time, therefore it will take time for things on your mind to be resolved. Equally, the card may stand for caution, so it advises you to develop a prudent attitude, to take your time and not be pressured or to rush into anything.

The Hermit card reveals that there is always something new to learn, and this lesson may come from the experiences of someone who has maturity and wisdom on their side. If your question concerns health issues, then the Hermit indicates a time of convalescence.

Reversed Meaning:

When the Hermit is reversed, it represents impatience and rash folly. You may feel lonely and isolated, possibly as a result of a betrayal. Conversely, you may become youthfully arrogant and dismissive of the past and tradition. The reversed Hermit may also show the cantankerous obstinacy usually associated with old age, showing up in the character of someone of any vintage. Refusing help from the outside and forgetfulness is also indicated.

Meaning of each Tarot card –The Hermit

Meaning of each Tarot card –Strength

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 08:13:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card –Strength

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 8 card of the Major Arcana: Strength.

Description:

In most Tarot decks a female figure gently but firmly holds a lion by the jaws; she is either opening or closing the lion’s jaw, displaying control over the fierce beast. This lady wears a large, floppy hat reminiscent of that worn by the Magician.

There are quite a number of cards that display a more conventional image of Strength, such as that of Hercules armed with a club defeating the Nemean Lion, which was the first of his famous Twelve Labors.

Upright Meaning:

One can interpret Strength as to physical strength in this card, yet it does not imply feats of endurance or great heroic deeds. Willpower, tenacity, self-belief and mental resilience are fundamental to this card. In a nutshell, there is a way because there is a will.

In the face of challenges do not doubt your own ability; you have enemies to defeat and obstacles to overcome. You know what to do, and it is the right thing. This is your chance to prove yourself and improve your own self-esteem at the same time.

The card is a very welcome addition to any reading if one has been ill, because it is a sure indicator of a rapid recovery. Another angle at the suggested meaning of the Strength card is connected to overcoming bad habits. So, if you are a smoker, then Strength can show that you have the necessary willpower to overcome your habit.

If health matters are not issues, then Strength indicates fighting for what is right. If the card does foretell a battle then it is one that you are well equipped to win. Triumph and victory will be yours. Just remember to reward yourself when the struggle is over.

Reversed Meaning:

The determination of the upright Strength may be completely misplaced when the card is reversed. This determination might be blinding you to the fact that you are chasing the wrong goal. On the other hand, this could be an indication of cowardice, losing one’s nerve and giving in just when victory is in sight. You may have to fight with yourself or to rely on someone else to provide the backbone you desperately need in a time of challenge. Even so, like the king of the jungle – the lion - you are still about to take the lead in battle, even if it is only as a figurehead.

Meaning of each Tarot card –Strength

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Chariot

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 08:11:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Chariot

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 7 card of the Major Arcana: The Chariot.

Description:

In modern decks, the Chariot card carries the image of a conquering hero, crowned and victorious, standing in a chariot beneath a canopy. Two Egyptian sphinxes are leading the chariot instead of the traditional horses in A.E. Waite’s version of the card.

Upright Meaning:

As suggested by the name of this card, the Chariot is a “vehicle” of one’s self-expression. It is the means by which we make progress in this world. Inner strength and courage have to be summoned as battles against you will have to be fought; this is suggested by the armor of the charioteer. This probably did not come as a surprise to you, because the card suggests that this struggle has been going on for a while and the Chariot in a reading encourages you to continue, as the contest is likely to be ongoing.

The Chariot shows that you are in control of your own destiny; you have the power to direct your life in the right direction. In keeping with the triumphal symbolism, the card may also be taken as a warning against being too smug or taking excessive pride in your achievements. Remember to act with humility.

On a more mundane note, the Chariot can often be taken literally as a vehicle of some kind. It may be that you will purchase a new vehicle or undertake a journey. If the card does represent travel, then travel for work rather than for pleasure is the more likely outcome.

Reversed Meaning:

When a general has adrenaline running after a victorious battle, arrogance often accompanies right behind. This is the case with the reversed Chariot card. An over-inflated ego may be indicated and you may be trumpeting your own self-importance far too much. The reversed Chariot can also indicate frustration, because you think that things are not moving quickly enough to suit you. You may also feel pressurized and prone to childish outbursts and fits of temper that are directed against those who do not deserve your wrath.

Things might not be going the way you want it to in the face of the reversed Chariot. There are obstacles in your path and seemingly endless delays. Travel plans are likely to be a headache. Perhaps some soothing meditative techniques would help your frame of mind when the Chariot is found in the reversed position.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Chariot

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Lovers

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:39:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Lovers

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 6 card of the Major Arcana: The Lovers.

Description:

With the possible exception of the Judgment card, the Lovers card varied in design more than any other card. In the more modern design by A.E. Waite, the Cupid is represented by Raphael, the powerful archangel. The card’s environment is the biblically famous Garden of Eden. Adam standing on the right in front of the Tree of Life, while Eve, apple of temptation in hand, stands on the left before the Tree of Knowledge, which has a serpent crawling up it. Between the two humans and their respective trees, a solitary mountain peak rears in the distance.

Upright Meaning:

Almost stating the obvious, the Lovers card refers to affairs of the heart. In many cases, the appearance of this card suggests that a new amorous adventure is budding. A new lover, a new relationship and deep emotional commitment are indicated. This is true regardless of your thinking in these matters right now; you will be surprised by the intensity of feeling that is to come.

In a more general sense, when the Lovers card appears in a reading, you should soon be expected to make an important decision that will affect the rest of your life. There may be a conflict between your duty and your heart’s true desire. This is an important matter, because two paths lie before you. One of these involves taking a great risk, but the advantage of this is that you could gain great happiness and emotional fulfillment. The other path is far more conventional, as it promises to continue your way of life as is usual for you. The advantage of this path is safety and previously established security. What these two paths offer is obvious to most: excitement and adventure for the first and calm, stable life for the second that you will inevitably be bored with in the long run.

In the face of the Lovers card, it is the heart that should speak and dominate the issue. So pick your path by following your feelings, and happiness will follow.

On a less profound note, the Lovers card can also show the establishment of a very close friendship that touches you deeply.

Reversed Meaning:

When the Lovers are reversed, it can mean that you are currently experience (or soon will experience) an unfulfilled life, an unhappy love affair and dissatisfaction with the status quo. Your devotion to duty may blight your chances of personal happiness. The choice of lifestyle indicated by the upright card is still before you, but there may be a lack of courage and commitment on your part to take that step. The reversed Lovers card can also indicate a separation from a lover when the card, however this is not necessarily a permanent situation, even though it will be an unwelcome development.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Lover

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Hierophant

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 08:40:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Hierophant

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 5 card of the Major Arcana: The Hierophant.

Description:

The Hierophant wears clerical vestments and bears the triple tiara of the Papacy on his head. His right hand is raised in the gesture of blessing while his left supports a three-tiered cross.

Upright Meaning:

Suggesting spiritual consolation and wise counsel in moments of need, the Hierophant is a more subtle card than others in the deck. The card represents the higher, idealistic foundations of established religious practices but it can also suggest a teacher or a practical instructor as well as a spiritual guide. If a question asked with someone in mind, then an older, more staid individual is indicated.

This is usually not the case, but when the Hierophant appears in a reading, it may well be the case that you will encounter someone who will acts as your personal guru. It is more common for the card to refer to a set of events that will provide their own lessons in moral and spiritual guidance.

In essence, the Hierophant represents the ability to distinguish right from wrong, white from black. It signifies the telltale signs of both good and bad, which allows you to make the correct decisions. The Hierophant symbolizes the tried and true, the proper way to behave and the values of traditional moral virtues. So, if your question involves a novel concept as opposed to an old fashioned and accepted mode of thought, then the answer of the Hierophant is that conventionality is the correct rout at this time.

The Hierophant is a traditional indicator or marriage. If a less formal, more modern relationship is being considered, then the appearance of this card shows that there will be outside pressure to make the union more conventional. The card can also point to contractual obligations, legal responsibilities and signing official documents.

Reversed Meaning:

When the Hierophant is reversed, then this indicates that outside opinions and moral judgments are hindering your own thoughts and decisions. In this negative position it often indicates looking and judging from the outside. There is also the possibility that hidebound tradition is holding you back, stifling your individuality and stopping you from being the person that you truly are. The card may also reveal a crisis of faith that manifests as uncharacteristic behavior and disorderly conduct.

However, in the more modern culture nowadays the reversed Hierophant does have a message that is possibly more positive now than it would have been even a century ago. The reversed Hierophant it could conceivably mean rejecting bad advice, or making your own decisions in defiance of an outworn value system.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Hierophant

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Emperor

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 05:36:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Emperor

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 4 card of the Major Arcana: The Emperor.

Description:

In most versions of this card, the Emperor sits enthroned wearing an impressive crown. In the Emperor right hand he holds a scepter. His left hand sometimes holds an orb or a shield emblazoned with an imperial eagle to show that he is an Emperor rather than a King of the Minor Arcana.

Upright Meaning:

The imposing, regal figure of the Emperor represents the fulfillment of ambition. One of two things (or both) is suggested when the Emperor appears in a reading. 1). You have gained the notice of someone of a great power and authority. This person, who is probably male, is well disposed toward you and will act in your favor. 2). The card means that you will gain high achievement, honor and renown.

Today’s modern world the Emperor card represents those who wield power over ordinary people. Politicians, employers, managers and administrators are prime examples of such people. If the querent is a female, then the card can represent a strong figure, such as her father or husband, or possibly some other paternal figure in her life in whom she places trust.

In a more general sense, the Emperor is a welcoming sing if you have been suffering from a lack of confidence or if you have been/are downhearted. The cloud over your head will soon be gone. It also indicates that you possess some gift or talent that will enable you to move toward your ultimate goal. In short, the card promises victory, a raising of your status and great honors; however you must remain noble in your hour of triumph. It is also possible that the Emperor of the card refers to yourself. If this is the case, then you will soon have the power to influence events and to emerge well from a crisis, in a position of authority and trust.

Reversed Meaning:

The reversed Emperor can be a real tyrant. Abusive and damaging, the reversed Emperor sees to it that he reigns supreme and comes up on top through demanding means. The paternalism of the upright Emperor now becomes abusive and damaging. Someone sees you as a threat or who just does not like you or your ideas; as a result your tasks at hand will not be completed as you wish. If you want to know if someone is trustworthy, the reversed Emperor shows that he is not. If the card appears to indicate part of your own character, then perhaps you are not as strong and capable as you would like others to think.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Emperor

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Empress

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 05:01:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Empress

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 3 card of the Major Arcana: The Empress.

Description:

Similar to the previous card, the High Priestess, the Empress sits crowned and enthroned, often hold a shield and a scepter. To distinguish the card from a Queen of the Minor Arcana, many artists draw an imperial eagle on the Empress’ shield. Other decks emblazon the shield with the astrological symbol of the planet Venus. As seen in the photo, the Imperial crown that the Empress wears is often decorated with twelve small stars. As for her scepter, some might mistaken it for a hand mirror or another depiction of the Venus symbol. More modern decks show the Empress seated in lush countryside. Some show her to be pregnant or suckling an infant.

Upright Meaning:

When the fertile Empress shows up, a time of prosperity and joy is unrevealed. The card indicates material comfort and hints at someone with whom to share contentment. The Empress card is symbolically associated with the springtime; which indicates the fruitfulness of the earth and the fertility of both human beings and animals. This is why often the Empress is associated with pregnancy. In essence, the card is maternal in nature and can show emotional support, protectiveness and a resultant feeling of security. When this card appears in a reading, it means that everything will turn out all right in the end. Even if you get a few bruises and scrapes along the way, you will have someone to kiss it better and hug you while telling you how well you have done. The Empress expresses reassurance and love.

The Empress can sometimes indicate moving to a new home. This is especially true if you enjoy decorating or gardening and if you also love to surround yourself with beautiful possessions. It should not be forgotten that there is a certain proprietary aspect to the Empress. In fact, one of the first things that should cross your mind when you see this card is the phrase “this is mine.”

Reversed Meaning:

The maternal nature of the Empress shows a darker side when the card is reversed. It can be that someone is far too protective, allowing loved ones little scope for self-expression. There may be problems that are caused by children who feel frustrated in their home environment. Domestic tyranny and emotional blackmail could be major problems associated with the reversed Empress. Financial difficulties are also a possibility when this card is reversed, so consider spending less and saving up a little bit.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Empress

Meaning of each Tarot card – The High Priestess

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:57:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The High Priestess

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 2 card of the Major Arcana: The High Priestess.

Description:

The High Priestess card was also known as Female Pope, Pope Joan or the Papess in traditional times. This mysterious card displays a robed lady dressed somewhat like a nun, sitting and enthroned between two pillars. One white one black, these two pillars are sometimes marked with a J and a B. This stand for Jakin and Boaz, the names of the Qabalistic pillars of severity and mercy. A veil or a curtain is hung between the two pillars, behind the High Priestess. On her head she bears the triple tiara usually worn at papal coronations. In traditional cards she holds an open book on her lap, while in more modern cards more lunar symbolism are added: for example the papal tiara is replaced with a crown showing the phases of the moon, the open book is replaced with the Jewish bible which is a scroll marked “Torah”

Upright Meaning:

In the same context as the Magician card, the High Priestess card may represent the querent if she is a female, while in a man’s reading, the High Priestess often represents the woman in his life. The card can also symbolize inspiration, especially the kind that is associated with the muse.

Known as a mysterious card, The High Priestess indicates that whatever your question happens to be, you have yet to unearth all the facts. The card often represents a wise guide who will help you; it can be an actual person, usually a woman, though it may represent the faculties of intuition, memory, instinct and psychic ability that will serve to chart your path.

The card is considered to be scholarly, so it is a good omen for studies and the deepening of knowledge. The veil that hangs behind the Priestess also indicates that a secret that you suspect exists, but whose nature is concealed from you for the time being. But in the near future the secret shall be known to you and you will need a touch of inspiration and intuitive wisdom to put the new information to good use. Despite having a guide as suggested above, your own instincts and your gut feeling will be your best guide in this case. This is a hint that these inner feelings may derive from some higher power.

Reversed Meaning:

When this card is reversed, be sure to be extra cautious about careless comments and remarks; they can be extremely wounding in your endeavors. Secrets may be unwisely revealed and passions may overrule common sense, and sexual tensions and frustrations can be a problem. Recall whether you are spending too much time looking after other people’s welfare at the expense of your own, as the reversed High Priestess can represent this also. Should you feel that the card represents a particular person, then the reversed meaning represents the person whose morals are distinctly lacking or one who has a moody and hysterical nature.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The High Priestess

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Magician

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:53:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Magician

Let us continue this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 1 card of the Major Arcana: The Magician.

Description:

The Magician wears a red and white robe together with a belt of a seperant eating its own tail (forming the circle around The Magician’s hip). Above his head there is a lemniscate. This lemniscate signifies the Magician as a figure who exudes occult power, as it is the symbol of eternity (a figure eight turned on its side). On The Magician’s table are the four suit emblems of the Minor Arcana (Wands, Coins, Swords, Cups). The Magician holds a wand in his right hand and a ball or coin in his other hand.

Upright Meaning:

The Magician card is number 1, showing the start of a new enterprise that requires initiative, willpower and a vision of the future. With a sense of purpose, The Magician represents dynamism and the ability to cope with new circumstances in the context of the question asked. Uncertainty will be element here, as in any new adventures and endeavors. However The Magician promises that with a little ingenuity you will succeed in whatever you set out to do.

If you are thinking about a major departure in your life and The Magician appears, congratulations. The card shows that your new distance has plenty of potential and it is up to you to deploy shrewdness so as to get your plans off the ground. If you are faced with opposition, the appearance of The Magician indicates that you are capable of thinking several steps ahead of those who are holding you back; you are capable of out-thinking, out-talking and out-pacing any rival.

A lot of times The Magician represents a man: if the querent is a male then the card represents him, and if a female then the card represents a special man in the female’s life.

It should be noted that if the querent is a female and this card appears, this special man can be the worthy suitor that he appears to be, or conversely, someone with an eye on the main chance.

Reversed Meaning:

The reversed Magician can indicate a confidence trickster or an extremely plausible lair. If an opportunity is presented to you, then be very suspicious of the other’s motives. New enterprises are likely to fail or they may be designed to part you from your cash.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Magician

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Fool

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 11:34:00 +0000

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Fool

Let us start this section of “Meaning of each Tarot card” with number 0 card of the Major Arcana: The Fool.

Description:

A court jester-like figure on the road, the basic image on this card who is dressed in “motley” with a cap and bells, with a stick over his shoulder and a knotted sack hanging on the other end. Many versions of the card also features a small dog, or very occasionally a cat.

Upright Meaning:

Being number 0, The Fool is both the first and the last card of the Tarot sequence and a link between the two. As the first card, it serves as a preliminary to that which will follow and has strong associations with childhood, innocence and new beginnings. As the last card, the Fool serves as a sigh of relief and an indicator of a new and exciting departure.

The Fool is a combination of bravery and naïve which comes from its innocence. Yet it is this very carelessness that provides the protection. The Fool’s head may be in the clouds with pitfalls and perils all around him, yet he is completely safe. His ever optimistic and innocence views will always be The Fool’s protection.

When this card appears, the sky is the limit for what can happen. The prospect of the journey will be exciting and the potential for fun along the way is endless. Everything will seem worth its weight as as the wonders you will see on your journey will ensure that you would not miss it for anything in the world. One thing is certain, you are going to dive in with a sense of innocence and come out a seasoned and experienced life traveler.

Reversed Meaning:

When this card is reversed, take a long, hard look at your life, because great caution should be exercised for whatever you have planned. The reversed Fool warns against impulsive decisions and foolish whims that can lead you into danger. Just like a child sometimes do, you may be acting in an irrational or immature manner. Be cautious about the move you are about to take, as you can be seen and feel literally like The Fool.

Meaning of each Tarot card – The Fool

Reading Tarot Cards - The Significator Card

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 09:15:00 +0000

Reading Tarot Cards - The Significator Card

When reading Tarot cards, you always begin by choosing the Significator. The Significator is a card that the Tarot readers choose to represent the person for whom they are reading (the querent). You begin by selecting a card that describes the individual’s age and sex. The choices here are standard. The King is chosen if the querent is a man forty years old or older. A Knight is used if he is less than forty. For the female, a Queen is used for forty years or older and Page is used for less than forty years old. The Page may also be used for teenagers or children. However, it is traditionally acceptable to use the Magician for a man or the Priestess for a woman if you cannot make up your mind which King, Queen, Knight or Page is most apt.

In addition, for reading Tarot cards often times a card is also chosen to represent the question (if any) that the querent is asking. The Lovers is often chosen for romantic relationship issues. When going on a trip or embarking on a journey, the Chariot, the Eight of Wands or Cups or the Six of Swords are often the choice of cards. The Ace of Coins is usually used for matters of finances.

Reading Tarot Cards - The Significator Card

Reading Tarot Cards – The Basics

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 08:18:00 +0000

Reading Tarot Cards – The Basics

There are a few basic but important things you should keep in mind when reading Tarot cards.

First:

You can do a generalized reading (i.e., one in which no question is asked, just a description of what’s happening in the querent’s life at this time). But if there is a question, it must be phrased properly. Remember: the more specific your question, the more specific and accurate your answer will be.

Second:

What you want to hear is not necessarily what the Tarot cards will tell you. This is the case whether the querent asks a question or not.

Third:

Some people might disagree on this: the future is mutable. You don’t get your fortune told to find out the inevitable; just like you don’t get your fortune told just to be informed that you’re going to die EVENTUALLY. The cards will tell you what is most likely to happen, given the current and past circumstances. And if the question has been properly phrased, they will also tell you why these events are occurring or likely to occur, and suggest a possible course of action. The decision then lies in the querent, to decide what steps he or she is prepared to take to either make sure this event does occur, or to prevent it.

Fourth:

The situation can occur in that the question asked, no matter how well-phrased, is not the one that’s answered. This is most likely to occur if the querent has never had their cards read before, or if it’s been a long time since they’ve had them read. This can be thought of as seen on TV: “We interrupt this program for an important announcement.” What is happening here is that the cards is addressing a much more important issue at hand to the querent, and ignored the question that was asked It’s almost as if something had been trying to get through to this person and grasped the opportunity the querent reading Tarot cards as a means of communication.

Should this happen, complete the reading anyway, giving the querent as much information as you can. Then, if your querent still wants their initial question answered, you can do a second reading. In that second reading, usually the initial question will be answered.

And Finally:

Sometimes the question will not be answered. Period. Assuming the reader is not having an off-day, usually this results from two things. The first reason is because the question was not specific enough. If you think this might be the problem, simply rephrase the question and try again. Over time, you will learn how questions should be worded to elicit the best information from reading Tarot cards.

Another reason the cards won’t answer is simply because the querent is not suppose to know the answer at this time. There are some situations that people have to take on trust. Almost everyone can appreciate and understand that there are times when it is unwise or even dangerous for someone to know in advance what the outcome of a given situation will be. The answers you get from the Tarot cards will be whatever information is currently available to the querent – and that means information the querent is allowed to know.

If the cards refuse to answer, you can try again at a later date, when the situation has changed enough so that the cards can give you some information.

There is also a third reason why an answer may be confusing or entirely off-base – or seem to be. This generally happens in a reading that you do for yourself, although it can also happen when you read for someone you know very well.

In this case, it’s very likely that you are getting an accurate answer, but that you’re simply not “listening”. You are trying to read what you WANT to read, not what is actually being told to you by the cards. This is the primary reason that the hardest reading to do is one you do for yourself. So the key here is to learn how to be objective when reading Tarot cards; let the cards lead you, not the other way around.

Reading Tarot Cards – The Basics

Reading Tarot Cards – Introduction

noreply@blogger.com (GHP) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 06:05:00 +0000

Reading Tarot Cards – Introduction

There are a variety of ways in reading Tarot cards (pronounced “Ta-Row”). Most people use the full deck of 78 cards, while others prefer to use only the 22 cards of the Major Arcana. Of course, those who read ordinary playing cards are effectively reading the Minor Arcana, although the interpretations for each playing card don’t necessarily match up with those used by Tarot card readers. There is a very traditional way of reading Tarot cards, where you start with an initial reading using the Major cards to focus on important issues, following up with a reading using the full deck to highlight details.

There are two people involved in any Tarot reading, the reader and the querent. The reader is the person who lays out the cards and interprets their meaning. The querent is the person for whom the reading is done. If you are reading Tarot cards for yourself, then you are both the reader and the querent.

When reading Tarot cards, it is important to keep in mind (for both reader and querent), that your purpose is to get an understanding of a situation which is in progress or about to happen.

The reader’s first priority – before even taking out the cards – is to make sure the querent understands what’s going on.

It is much easier if the querent is familiar with Tarot readings, as a thorough explanation is not necessary. At most, and only if you’ve never read for this person before, you will need to tell him or her how you want them to handle the cards. Also, you will want to tell them how to phrase their question; this will depend on the type of reading. You can explain how your system works (the significance of individual cards in your spread) as you are doing the reading.

If the querent is unfamiliar with Tarot cards readings, then there’s a great deal more you have to explain. Begin by telling them the questions that will and will not be answered by the Tarot cards. One simple way to do this is to tell them that the Tarot can reveal information about your past, present, and future, and/or about people or situations you’re involved with. But it certainly cannot tell us the winning lottery number – past, present, or future!

Visit the other posts on the right column to learn more on how reading Tarot cards works.

Reading Tarot Cards – Introduction