Monday, March 25, 2013

The Meaning of the Aces in the Tarot of Quotes

the meaning of the aces in the tarot

Aces in the Tarot represent the purest energy and root of each suit.

Numerically, they are connected to the Magician (the symbols of the four suits are often displayed on the Magician's table in traditional Rider Waite style images), which emphasizes their magickal power of potential.

Indeed, in the Book T publication by the Order of the Golden Dawn, three Aces drawn in a reading suggests riches and success, whereas four Aces indicates great power and force.

In readings, the Aces signify potential, a gift or an opportunity relating to their individual suits.

It is up to the person the Aces are drawn for to accept the gift, seize the opportunity or set out and fulfil the potential.

Aces are positive omens of change and new beginnings. They can be described as seeds in need to be sown and nurtured to be brought to fruition.

Astrologically, they have not been assigned each to a specific planet or zodiac, but according to Lon Milo DuQuette's Understanding Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot as seeds they contain a mix of elements in order to have the ability to germinate and manifest.

The mix of elements is represented by the zodiac signs each Ace rules.

Ace of Wands - spark, inspiration, bright idea, natural force, rush of energy, creativity, ambition, aspiration, passion, imagination

Esoteric Title: The Root of the Powers of Fire

Astrological attribution: ruler of Cancer, Leo and Virgo

Interpretation: being inspired to turn a dream into reality; inspiring others, expressing yourself; nurturing your talent and creative skills, planning a new business venture; confidence; optimism, enthusiasm, eager to succeed, making an effort, going for it.

Image: the candle symbolises the divine spark, the inner light, the burst of energy, creativity and passion.

the meaning of the ace of cups in the tarot of quotes

Ace of Cups - love, intuition, pleasure, fertility, emotions, happiness, empathy

Esoteric Title: The Root of the Powers of Water

Astrological attribution: ruler of Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius

Interpretation: following your heart; expressing feelings, pouring your heart out; tuning in and developing psychic abilities; being receptive; following a hunch; possibility for new love or a relationship is growing; bonding with someone; being compassionate and showing empathy; forgiveness; radiating love.

Image: the fountain symbolises unconditional, perpetual/eternal love and the overflowing of love, feelings and emotions

the meaning of the ace of swords in the tarot of quotes

Ace of Swords - truth, knowledge, mental/intellectual force, clarity, adversity, justice, punishment, afflictions

Esoteric Title: Root of the Powers of Air

Astrological Attribution: ruler of Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces

Interpretation: exploring new knowledge; discovering the truth, gaining clarity; applying logic, reason and analytical skills; acting with integrity; fighting for justice and what is fair; being honest; overcoming obstacles; recognising illusions and the reality of a situation

Image: the upright sword symbolises clarity of mind, spiritual brightness, a whirling force for justice and truth.

the meaning of the ace of pentacles in the tarot of quotes

Ace of Pentacles - material gain, prosperity, growth, stability, power, nature, nurturing, establishing, working

Esoteric Title: The Root of the Power of Earth

Astrological Attribution: rules Aries, Taurus and Gemini

Interpretation: flourishing, efforts rewarded with material gain, tangible results, working with nature; being grounded and realistic; using common sense; building a secure base/support system; increasing assets; starting a regular job; looking after your health; nurturing family life; investing into a secure future.

Image: the open door to a hidden garden symbolises opportunity for new growth, a gateway to prosperity and stability; trust and good faith despite uncertainty of the unknown amidst the security of the surrounding walls.

I welcome your views and opinions on my cards. Please feel free to leave your comments below.

You can view all images of my Tarot deck in the Ko-fi Gallery

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Check out the Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook


Tuesday, March 19, 2013

The Planetary Spread Reading with the Rosetta Tarot

 Planetary Spread, Rosetta Tarot

In my previous post you can find all the details of the Planetary Spread and more information about the beautiful Rosetta Tarot.

Please note that for this sample reading I have used the astrological correspondences given in the companion book of this deck.

The cards drawn for this general reading are as follows:

1. Earth: Princess of Disks  - Earth of Earth (together with the Ace of Disks ruler of Aries, Taurus, Gemini)

In the Self position, the Princess of Disks suggests a person, who is full of creative potential and keen to manifest possibilities into something tangible and fruitful. 

Her creative energy is symbolised by her pregnancy and her crest of the Ram/Oxen head. 

The Princess of Disks represents creative endeavours in their early stages, and she needs to demonstrate ambition (Aries), patience and perseverance (Taurus) and mental focus (Libra) to turn her ideas into reality.

Her personality is down-to-earth and realistic, sprinkled with a touch of hedonism (good food and drink) and indulgent sensuality. 

The Princess of Disks has a strong affinity with nature and all things natural/organic/handmade.

The key message of this card is to focus on aspirations with patience and clarity in order to achieve goals and enduring productivity.

2. Sun: Two of Swords - Moon in Libra

Keyword: Peace

The current power source is that of calm, stillness and balance. A peaceful mind alleviates insecurities. 

Taking time to relax and meditate is important right now to sustain well-being. 

Creative projects need patience; nothing should be rushed. There is a sense of being at peace by avoiding confrontations or delay making some tough decisions.

The key message of this card is to practice emotional detachment in order to create inner balance to make the right decision and move forward.

3. Mars: Four of Disks - Sun in Capricorn

Keyword: Power

The Four of Disks in the Action position suggests being over-protective of security, possessions and what is known. 

The need for control can be overpowering at times, stifling others and limiting own potential for expansion. 

Letting go of power and control may seem risky, but it can have a liberating effect, whilst at the same time avoiding becoming reckless or irresponsible.

The key message of the Four of Disks is to loosen the grip on power and control by developing more trust in others and even the unknown.

4. Venus: Ace of Cups - Root of Water (together with the Princess of Cups ruler of Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius)

The Ace of Cups in the love position suggests new emotional beginnings and being receptive to opportunities in love and deepening relationships. 

Here we see a person, who is open-hearted, ready to give love and nurture others. 

If this card comes up at a time of emotional upheaval, it can suggest positive developments, that not all is as bleak as it seems, and happy times will return.

Any relationship issues can be resolved by applying qualities of the three ruling zodiac signs: communicative (Libra), passionate (Scorpio) and generous (Sagittarius).

Aces symbolise potential, so the key message of the Ace of Cups is to start sowing the seeds of love in the present by joyfully giving and sharing without expecting anything in return.

In a relationship reading, the Mars and Venus position could indicate one person, who is ready to embark on a new relationship and willing to commit (Ace of Cups), whereas the other person is reluctant to do so, perhaps wanting to protect their feelings (Four of Disks).

5. Jupiter: Prince of Disks - Air of Earth - Aries/Taurus (ruler of 4 of Wands, 5 of Disks, 6 of Disks)

The Prince of Disks in the opportunities position suggests progress through discipline and tenacity. 

In the image he is driving an ox-pulled chariot scattering dandelion flowers, which symbolise fruitfulness. 

He is hard-working, patient and energetic. These qualities will be beneficial when pursuing goals at work or at home.

The three pip cards he is ruling indicate initial success (4 of Wands) and the need to manage money more efficiently (5 and 6 of Disks).

The key message of the Prince of Disks is that hard work and perseverance will pay off, but at the same time finances need to be managed carefully.

6. Mercury: Five of Wands - Saturn in Leo

Keyword: Strife

The Five of Wands in the communications position suggests misunderstandings, arguments and power struggles. 

The Saturn in Leo constellation linked to this card indicates the need to tame the ego and focus more on collaboration rather than competition. 

Before getting drawn into an argument, it's worth remembering that clear, simple and calm discussions will be more effective to encourage co-operation.

Whether it is relevant to you in relationships, at work or in family situations, the key message of the Five of Wands is to avoid fighting for power or position to get results. 

Instead, focus on your goal and what you want to achieve by promoting a more constructive team effort.

7. Saturn: The Hierophant - Taurus

The Hierophant in the opposition/teacher position suggests that conventional structures and an organised hierarchy are beneficial to personal and professional development, even though they can sometimes limit creativity.

This is supported by the other Disks cards in this spread. Set tasks, routines, daily schedules and to-do lists are proven tools of productivity, which can at times stifle flexibility and spontaneity.

The key message of the Hierophant is to embrace all the advantages of order, discipline and traditional values, but also be more aware of their limitations.

 Learning new skills, meet new people or try something different will be invigorating and broaden the horizon.

8. Moon: Queen of Swords - Water of Air - Libra

The Queen of Swords in the feeling position suggests the need to be emotionally strong and resilient. 

Perhaps feelings are being controlled rather than light-heartedly displayed. Nothing wrong with that, especially when feelings are negative and could easily be expressed with cutting, spiteful remarks. 

Some issues still need to be resolved, and this Queen may either keep a stiff upper lip or voice her emotions in a matter-of-fact, clear and honest way.

The key message of the Queen of Swords is not to keep emotions suppressed. Whatever needs to be resolved, do it with diplomacy, wit, fairness and understanding.

The Queen of Swords in the Moon position complements the Two of Swords in its opposing Sun position. 

Here, the message of keeping a cool head and practising emotional detachment (without being cold-hearted) is emphasised to create and maintain harmony.

⭐Would you like to learn more about using Astrology in your Tarot readings? Check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology course

✨Grab the FREE printable planetary spread worksheet

Warmest wishes,

Christiane


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Friday, March 15, 2013

The Planetary Spread with the Rosetta Tarot

The Planetary Spread with the Rosetta Tarot, Part 1
The Rosetta Tarot © 2011 M.M. Meleen

Last week I received the magickal Rosetta Tarot in the post, and I'm very impressed with the stunningly vibrant images.

This self-published limited edition tarot deck by artist and author M.M. Meleen is based on Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot and the Golden Dawn tradition

Some images are very similar to those in the Thoth deck, but others vary a lot, and some images have even been given a modern, 21st century overhaul

This isn't a lengthy review of the Rosetta Tarot. Overall, I love this deck, and it has inspired me to create an 8-card planetary spread, which can be used as a condensed overview, ideal for general readings.

If you are interested in buying this deck, you will need to be quick, because only 777 copies have been printed, and I received number 520.

I would also recommend buying the companion book, the Book of Seshet, as it offers a wealth of information on the artwork and symbolism of the deck, astrological correspondences, an introduction to Qabalah and explores the Golden Dawn based tarot structure.

8-card planetary tarot spread

In ancient Greco-Roman astronomy five planets and two illuminaries (sun and moon also referred to as planets) were identified, which could all be seen with the naked eye:

Moon - Mercury - Venus - Sun - Mars - Jupiter - Saturn

It was also believed that the Earth was at the centre of the solar system, circled by the seven planets.

The planetary spread is based on this ancient model.

Each planet is associated with characteristics and psychological energies, which we all express in various forms and at different times.

In Tarot, the planets are linked to Major Arcana cards, which can already offer you an insight, what the individual planet is all about, and what the position in the spread refers to.

This spread doesn't contain a future/outcome position. Instead, each card may reveal new information or confirm what you already know. It may also offer guidance on what action to take, perhaps even suggest future possibilities:

1. Earth

The self; present situation; your current role; how you express yourself; where you are right now; your reality; identity

2. Sun (The Sun)

Power source; what motivates you; energy levels, creative endeavours; level of contentment

3. Mars (The Tower)

Action; the male principle; what actions need to be taken; what needs to be confronted; power and control issues; leadership; what existing structures need to be broken up and rebuilt; in a relationship reading, this position can relate to the male (or male-orientated) partner

4. Venus (The Empress)

Love; the female principle; relationships; family; home life; what needs to be nurtured; sensual pleasures; health; in a relationship reading, this position can relate to the female (or female-orientated) partner

5. Jupiter (Wheel of Fortune)

Opportunities to look out for; things in your favour; changing circumstances; new experiences; growth, expansion; what helps you to reach a long-term goal or is necessary for survival

6. Mercury (The Magician)

Messages that clarify a situation; potential; communication; resources available; what needs changing; intention and goals; generating ideas

7.  Saturn (The World)

Opposition or teacher; obstacles, limitations and boundaries; what has been achieved and completed; lessons learned; what adversity have you overcome that has made you stronger; likewise, which apparent positive situations/people in your life can turn out to be a problem in the future

8. Moon (The High Priestess)

Feelings and emotions; how you have been feeling recently; moods; fears, insecurities; doubts; perceptions, what is hidden; intuition

How to read the Cards in this Spread

Shuffle the deck and arrange the cards face-down. Although the cards are placed in the numerical sequence of the spread, they can be read in any order.

If you do the reading for someone else, you could ask the querent to choose, which card to start with (whilst the cards are still lying face-down). This can give you an indication, what the querent’s subconscious priorities are or what concerns them most.

See this spread in action with the Rosetta Tarot in the follow-up post.

⭐In the meantime, grab the FREE planetary spread worksheet on my Ko-fi page to do your own reading⭐

Warmest wishes,

Christiane


Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling