Planets in the Tarot Workbook

The Planets in the Tarot is my latest workbook that has been created to be a supplement to my Starlight Tarot Astrology course.

But on its own it also offers lots of insight into how the cards and their meanings are influenced by the planetary energies - and how you can make the most of this knowledge in your readings.

In this 22-page downloadable PDF we explore all the cards linked to planets with excercises and activities to help you make sense of the complex associations and apply them in a practical way without new age or away-with-the-fairies jargon.

The aim of this workbook is to help you understand rather than just memorise card meanings on a deeper level, so you can gain new wisdom from the Tarot to guide you further on your spiritual journey.

There are two ways you can get hold of Planets in the Tarot:

1. Buy the Starlight Tarot Astrology course and receive this workbook as a free bonus. It's inclcuded as a separate ebook with your course material.

2. Get Planets in the Tarot for FREE when you become a member on my Ko-fi page.  Ko-fi is the place, where you can access an abundance of innovative and transformative tarot study material for free and for a small fee.

If you are curious about learning to combine Tarot with Astrology, the Planets in the Tarot workbook will give you plenty of aha-moments with its clear and plain but insightful content.

Grab your copy today, either as part of the Starlight Astrology course or on Ko-fi.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Planetary Spread with the Rosetta Tarot

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.

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

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Pluto In The Tarot

Pluto is one of the three modern planets discovered in 1930, and it was later added to the Tarot as the ruling planet for Judgement.

Together with Mars, it is one of Scorpio's ruling planets, so in the Tarot it is also linked to Death, the zodiac card for Scorpio.

Pluto in the Tarot is not associated with any Minor Arcana cards, which have all been assigned to the traditional seven planets.

While all planets represent gods, Pluto is the God of the Underworld, so it makes sense that it is now linked to Scorpio and Death.

The energy of Pluto is that of transformation, regeneration, letting go as well as the unconscious.

It is associated with sexuality, physical and spiritual birth, with death and resurrection.

Pluto nudges us to confront our - and nature's - darker, more instinctive side.

Pluto energy offers us psychological insight and the ability to heal and regenerate.

On the other hand, it can generate obsessive compulsive tendencies.

So what does this all mean for Judgement and Death in the Tarot?

"I was dreamin' when I wrote this, forgive me if it goes astray
But when I woke up this mornin', could've sworn it was judgment day
The sky was all purple, there were people runnin' everywhere
Tryin' to run from the destruction, you know I didn't even care..."

- Prince, 1999

Pluto's influence on Judgement suggests the ability and necessity to let go of old patterns and baggage in order to move on.

After all, a change of direction is an ending, just like putting closure on a situation by having learned a lesson or practicing forgiveness.

Pluto's influence on Death suggests the need for detachment, a rite of passage, an emotionally painful transition, resurrection.

Both cards remind me of the rise of the Phoenix from the ashes, endings and new beginnings, but while Judgement's ending feels more upbeat and the rise is imminent, Death's ending is lingering and comes together with Scorpio's sting in its tail - ouch.

If both cards were present in a reading, it can suggest the transformative nature of Pluto intensified and a sense of upheaval, life being turned upside down as a result of external events or decisions being made.

If you would like to learn more about how to combine tarot with astrology, check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology Course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Combining Tarot with Astrology

Astrology is one of the oldest and most widely recognized divinatory systems.

Most people are familiar with their sun sign, and horoscopes are featured in thousands of newspapers and magazines globally.

But there is more to astrology, just as there is more to the Tarot once you begin to delve deeper.

Assigning astrological meanings to tarot cards offers a more nuanced understanding of both disciplines. 

With astrological attributions, it's even possible to determine the timing of specific events, adding another layer of depth to your readings.

The most common system used today is that of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

However, this system has recently been updated to include the discovery of three new planets - Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.

The original Golden Dawn members were only aware of the seven classical planets: the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.

Now the connection of the ten planets and twelve zodiac signs with the 22 cards of the Major Arcana works out perfectly.

Astrological attributes are also assigned to the Minor Arcana cards.

Combining Tarot with astrology brings a fresh perspective and deeper insights into the astrological attributions within the Tarot, enriching the readings and interpretations.

⭐Want to learn more?⭐

Find more articles on this topic by clicking Tarot and Astrology, and check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology Course

Warmest wishes,

Christiane ✨

The Moon Cards in the Tarot

Most of the cards in the Tarot (except Aces and Pages) are connected either directly or indirectly (via zodiac attributions) to the planets.

When you look closer at the images of those cards that share the same planetary attribution, you can see some visual similarities.

By identifying and studying these similarities, you can gain new insight and a deeper understanding of individual cards.

Here, we are looking at the moon cards in the (RWS) Tarot.

The example above shows the High Priestess and the Two of Swords.

The moon is assigned to the High Priestess, and the Two of Swords' astrological attribution is Moon in Libra.

Both women face us with their backs to the water. Whereas in the High Priestess image the view of the water is concealed by a curtain, the woman in the Two of Swords is blindfolded.

Both women are dressed in a white robe. The moon crescent can be found at the feet of the High Priestess, and in the sky on the Two of Swords.

The High Priestess is holding a book, the woman in the Two of Swords is holding the swords.

Both women are seeking knowledge through quiet contemplation, yet they do so in different ways.

Both cards are connected to feelings, emotions and the unconscious (lunar influences).

But there are more moon cards in the Tarot:

The Chariot - zodiac sign Cancer is ruled by the moon

Six of Pentacles - Moon in Taurus

Four of Cups - Moon in Cancer

Nine of Wands - Moon in Sagittarius

Seven of Swords - Moon in Aquarius

We can also add The Moon to this list, even though this Major Arcana card is linked to Pisces.

Take all these cards from your deck and explore how the energy of the moon is reflected in them.

What new insights are you gaining? 

Bear in mind that the moon also adds the element Water to each card.

Check out my Power of the Moon article for more information about the moon and how it might affect card meanings and interpretations.

And if you love this kind of tarot study, you might be interested in my Starlight Tarot Astrology course, which also includes more in-depth information about the moon and all the other planets.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane 

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The Sun Cards in the Tarot

The planets are linked to Major and Minor Arcana cards in the Tarot.

A while ago, I looked at the moon cards in the Tarot and noticed some interesting visual connections

Here are some of my observations of the sun cards in the Tarot.

The best deck to use for this exercise is the Rider Waite Smith (RWS) Tarot.

On a visual level, we can see a connection between Strength and the Six of Cups. There is interaction between the two main figures.

I also see a link between Strength and the Four of Pentacles. The woman and man are holding on to something.

And yes, The Sun and Strength both depict people with animals.

I leave you to explore more visual similarities and what they could mean.

What additional interpretations does the sun as a planet add to each card it corresponds with?

Here are some suggestions:

The Sun - primary link with the sun, which in astrology represents the ego, life force and creativity. Additional interpretations therefore could be confidence, extroversion, selfishness, survival instinct, hedonism.

Strength - linked to the zodiac sign Leo, which is ruled by the sun. Strong physical energy, vitality, health and resilience.

Ten of Swords - Here, the sun represents a new beginning, new life, new opportunity, birth, resilience, survivor spirit, looking at the bright side, blessing.

Three of Wands - optimism, focus, alert, enthusiastic, adventure spirit, creative drive, ambition.

Six of Cups - contentment, benevolence, joy, nurture.

Eight of Pentacles - job satisfaction, vocation, workaholic, creative energy

Four of Pentacles - selfishness, self-protection, possessiveness

If you would like to learn step-by-step more about astrology and how to apply it in your Tarot work, then check out my Tarot Astrology self-study course, where you can download the complete planet exercise together with some funky journaling sheets.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started. Dive into the cards and see what else you can discover that relates to the sun—additional interpretations or visual connections.

Remember, the sun adds the element Fire to each card.

If you're eager to learn more about astrology and how to apply it in your Tarot work, check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology self-study course. 

You can download a FREE funky planet exercise on my Ko-fi page.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane 🦄

Pluto Retrograde Guidance And Journal Prompts

 

Looks like we're currently experiencing Plutonian times.

Speak of the Devil (quite literally as you will see shortly), Pluto has stationed retrograde on the 25th April in Capricorn and will turn direct again on the 4th October 2020, also in Capricorn.

Capricorn is linked to the Devil in the Tarot, and Pluto is linked to Judgement and Death (Scorpio's ruling planet). These cards already give us an idea of what we can expect over the coming months.

For more info on Pluto in the Tarot, check out my blog post HERE.

Retrograde planets often initiate a certain level of re-calibration, and Pluto is going to intensify the global transformation it already started back in January, when it  was conjunct with Saturn (linked in the Tarot to the World and ruling planet of Capricorn = the Devil!).

Pluto Retrograde can increase fear of death and also resistance to change.

The whole world is scared of Covid19, and extreme laws and restrictions (Capricorn, Devil, World) are likely to cause more suffering and loss.

On a global level, we will have to face some very inconvenient truths about existing structures and workings of society and make some drastic changes on a large scale that are likely to affect us all and future generations.

On a personal level, what can we do to weather the storm?

Without any waffle, I'm just listing themes and qualities here that we will all need to focus on and cultivate as a collective - they are all self-explanatory:

• kindness
• generosity
• mutual support
• active listening
• understanding
• cooperation
• speaking our truth
• courage
• engaging in debates
• contribute towards finding solutions
• be discerning, especially when evaluating information and motives of powerful and influential people (watch out for lies and propaganda fuelled by fear and greed)
• moral and ethical integrity
• sustainability

Here are some journaling prompts to explore the energies of Pluto retrograde in your life:

1. What change/ending/transformation am I resisting?

2. What is no longer working in my life?

3. What boundaries that I set in the past have turned into self-limitations?

4. How can I transcend these limitations?

5. What unnecessary baggage am I holding on to that needs shedding?

6. How can I stay strong during this time of great upheaval?

7. What/Who is controlling me?

8. How can I regain my independence?

9. What in my life is in the process of being birthed?

The impact of Pluto retrograde will be felt by us all for quite some time, but in times of adversity there is always potential for growth and spiritual advancement.

Striving to live our best lives by cultivating qualities as listed above will make it easier to rebuild, evolve and thrive once we have arrived on the other side.

Stay well, and speak again soon,

Christiane

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The Venus Retrograde Tarot Spread

Venus Cards in the Tarot, Universal Tarot (c) Roberto de Angelis, Lo Scarabeo 

Venus stations retrograde about every 18 months for around 40 days, and because it is one of our closest planets, the energies can be felt more intensely.

In the Tarot, Venus is linked to the Empress and all the other cards you see on the image above.

This means that Venus retrograde can affect your self-care, love life and money issues.

Venus is all about love, beauty, creativity and abundance. When it’s retrograde, we just need to pay more attention to those issues.

You may also receive some tough love during this time, learning lessons about love and relationships the hard way.

Imagine the cards above (especially the Empress) reversed; that’s what the energy of Venus Retrograde can be like.

Here are a few things you may want to avoid during Venus retrograde:

• Major changes to your looks, like a new hair cut, hair colour or tatoo. You might regret it later.
• A tendency to neglect your wellbeing, perhaps due to demands at work, home or self-imposed stress.
• Extravagant purchases, which could leave you in debt, or spontaneous purchases, where you realise later that you don’t need these things.
• Committing to a relationship. There may be a change of heart when Venus goes direct again.
• Reconnecting with an ex lover

To explore your personal DOs and DON’Ts, try this Venus Retrograde tarot spread using only the Venus cards in the Tarot:

1. Reflect on…

2. Embrace…

3. Avoid…

4. Create…

5. Learn (from)…

6. See the beauty in…

7. Find abundance in…

You can also do a second reading using all the cards of your deck.

Download the printable Venus Retrograde journal page on my Ko-fi page:

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Discover Your Tarot Love Match

Smith Waite Centennial Edition Deck

The Tarot Love Match Reading is a fun and insightful way of exploring the dynamics of your relationship (or a potential relationship you are thinking of pursuing).

As the twelve zodiac signs are assigned to twelve cards in the Major Arcana, you can pick the two cards that relate to you and your (potential) partner and explore your compatibility.

Here are the Tarot cards with their associated zodiac signs and elemental attribution:

Aries (Fire) - Emperor

Taurus (Earth) - Hierophant

Gemini (Air) - Lovers

Cancer (Water) - Chariot

Leo (Fire) - Strength

Virgo (Earth) - Hermit

Libra (Air) - Justice

Scorpio (Water) - Death

Sagittarius (Fire) - Temperance

Capricorn (Earth) - Devil

Aquarius (Air) - Star

Pisces (Water) - Moon

Before you start interpreting the cards, note the ruling element of each zodiac as the combination of the elements offer you a first impression of the potential harmony of your relationship:

Friendly: Fire/Air, Earth/Water

Neutral: Fire/Earth, Water/Air

Unfriendly: Fire/Water, Earth/Air

We also tend to have more in common with other signs in our own element group, e.g. Earth/Earth, which would also be a friendly combination.

Please note that if the zodiac card combination of your current relationship is an "unfriendly" one, don't worry!

The Tarot Love Match Reading gives you an insight into how your personalities may interact, and there will always be individual exceptions, which can be explored further by taking into account a full birth chart and associated Tarot cards.

People who are already attracted and connected to each other may well have other planets in compatible signs.

On the other hand, an "unfriendly" match could indicate challenges arising in your relationship, which could result in having to put a lot of effort into making it work long-term.

But being aware of this possibility empowers you to being more mindful about your relationship and explore it on a deeper level.

Examples:

1. Taurus - Cancer

Friendly earth/water combination.

The Hierophant likes structure, routine and tradition; he is patient, practical and faithful.

The Chariot is dedicated, protective and emotionally resilient; both enjoy comfort, security, and even accumulating material possessions.

Together they have the potential for lasting love and to build wealth and success in a long-term relationship.

2. Leo - Virgo

Neutral fire/earth combination.

Strength loves being the centre of attention and perseveres with the object of its desire; passionate, energetic, enthusiastic and optimistic.

In contrast, the Hermit is down-to-earth, introvert and modest.

Whereas Strength enjoys Hermit's need to please in a relationship, Hermit's critical nature can be a turn-off.

Likewise, Hermit may be amused by theatrical Strength but put off by Strength's lack of empathy.

Both need to be more tolerant of each others quirks to make this relationship work.

3. Libra - Capricorn

Unfriendly air/earth combination.

Justice likes an ordered and serene environment; diplomatic, attentive listener, striving for balance in a relationship.

The Devil is ambitious, hard working and loves to be in control; he is often serious and reserved.

Justice can be irritated by the Devil's tendency to be overpowering and ruthless at times, and overall there doesn't seem to be a strong mutual attraction.

This relationship could well be a non-starter, or it may need a lot of hard work on both sides in order to succeed.

Tip:

When you look at the card pairs above, take a look at the position of the figures in the images and how they relate to each other.

What does their body language tell you about the dynamics of their relationship?

Now move the cards in each pair around, e.g. from Strength/Hermit to Hermit/Strength; what further insight do you gain from this swap?

If you enjoy this exercise, you can go deeper by adding the matching court cards, which have also been attributed to the zodiac signs:

Aries – Queen of Wands
Taurus – King of Pentacles
Gemini – Knight of Swords
Cancer – Queen of Cups
Leo – King of Wands
Virgo – Knight of Pentacles
Libra – Queen of Swords
Scorpio – King of Cups
Sagittarius – Knight of Wands
Capricorn – Queen of Pentacles
Aquarius – King of Swords
Pisces – Knight of Cups

So, using the examples above, we would be looking at the following card combinations:

1. Hierophant/King of Pentacles - Chariot/Queen of Cups
2. Strength/King of Wands - Hermit/Knight of Pentacles
3. Justice/Queen of Swords - Devil/Queen of Pentacles

What additional information do the court cards offer?

I hope you enjoy doing the tarot love match reading for yourself or even for your friends.

If you love journaling, you can also find this article in my Cosmic Faery's Journal workbook together with a funky journaling sheet and lots of other tarot spreads and journaling ideas.

And if you want to learn more about how to apply astrology in your tarot readings, please check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Symbolism of Plants In The Tarot

In the Tarot, plants serve as potent symbols, rich with meaning and intention. They stir the imagination, conjuring images, associations, and insight.

The list that follows offers symbolic suggestions for each plant, though interpretation remains a deeply personal part of every reading.

Acorn, see Oak

Apple

Sacred fruit of Aphrodite/Venus symbolising sexual desire and fertility. When sliced horizontally, its seeds resemble a pentacle.

In Celtic mythology, the apple tree is a symbol of plenty, for choice and a door into greater mysteries. It is one of the three legendary magical fruits (hazel, apple, oak).

Symbol of love, faith, generosity and gratitude. It can be found on the RWS Lovers card behind the nude female.

The snake in the apple tree links the card with the story of Adam and Eve, suggesting paradise and its forthcoming demise.

Beech

Symbol of beauty and ancient wisdom, prosperity and divination. The beech tree is a symbol for the written word; it was once used to make writing tablets.

In Celtic mythology, the beech tree is associated with all gods of wisdom and learning and the human intellect.

The wood and leaves were carried as a talisman to increase creative powers.

Birch

Symbol of new beginnings, birth, springtime, young love; renewal and cleansing; new directions and goals. A birch forest appears on the Death card of the Robin Wood deck.

Corn

Cornfields symbolise the potential for cultivation, the need for labour, attention and care in order to achieve material success.

A person standing in a cornfield suggests a down-to-earth mentality and a connection with the Earth element or its energy.

Cypress

The cypress comprises the forest in the background of the Empress in the RWS deck. It is sacred to Venus and Artemis and suggests fertility.

Also sacred to the gods of the underworld, Hades and Pluto, it can represent anything developing in darkness, e.g. the unconscious.

Evergreen

Symbolises continuous giving and support, nurture and stability. See also cypress, ivy, palm, pine.

Grain

Symbolises the cycle of life, harvest and new seed. Fertility, nourishment, creative abundance, spiritual maturity.

Found on the Empress card of the RWS deck and in the suit of Pentacles.

Grapevine

Grapes represent inspiration and truth (as a result from drinking wine, when inhibitions are released).

Also symbolising abundance, fruitfulness and achievement. The vine’s symbolic meaning in the Old Testament is as an emblem of God’s blessing on his chosen people.

Grapes appear on Crowley’s Fool suggesting ‘sweetness of life, intoxication’ (Banzhaf/Theler).

Iris

The flower represents the goddess Iris, who was the Greek messenger of the gods. She is also associated with the rainbow, which represents the pathway by which she travelled.

Both the flower and the rainbow symbolise her qualities as a divine messenger. The flower can be found on the RWS Temperance card.

Ivy

Entwining ivy is a symbol of romantic desolation; it was associated with death in the 18th century Gothic revival and a symbol of melancholy.

Ivy was an essential complement to any ruined building. Its entwining habit represents the movement of the stars and planets and the understanding of their influence on the affairs of humankind.

Ivy symbolises the Spirit, search for enlightenment, a warning (Ivy ale was a highly intoxicating medieval drink), binding and restricting, freeing and uniting. It is closely connected with the vine.

Laurel

A laurel wreath was used as a crown of victory or accomplishment for athletes, poets and musicians in ancient Greece.

It was associated with the Greek god Apollo. The Fool in the RWS deck wears a laurel wreath, which symbolises his victorious spirit.

The charioteer on the Chariot card of the RWS wears a laurel wreath and so does the victorious rider on the Six of Wands.

Lily/water lilies

Tarot of Quotes

The white lily symbolises purity, chastity, innocence and also higher spirit. The three-sided fleur-de-lis (triple lily) is a heraldic symbol of illumination.

Water lilies are the Golden dawn’s elemental symbol for water. They float on the water of the RWS Ace of Cups.

Golden lilies appear on the Emperor card of Crowley’s Thoth deck as an attribute of power.

Lotus Blossom

The lotus blossom represents the four elements: the earth from which the plant grows, the water supporting its stalk, air into which its perfume escapes and the fire of the sun, which provides energy for it to grow.

The lotus represents the soul or psyche rising from the unconscious (the bottom of its watery source) into the clarity of consciousness and enlightenment.

Lotuses feature on all the Cup cards of Crowley’s Thoth Tarot (except the Seven and the Knight) as well as the Empress (the Lotus sceptre, representing feminine creativity and life force) and the Devil (wearing a lotus garland as a sign that the bearer is ‘a child of good’ - Banzhaf/Theler).

Mushrooms

Good fortunes, longevity, immortality; also rapid growth and destruction (mushroom cloud). Can also represent restlessness and change (Robin Wood Moon card).

Myrtle

The RWS Empress wears a myrtle wreath, which is associated with female fertility, the forces of nature and also immortality. Myrtle is sacred to Venus. It was a Greek emblem of happiness, often used in marriage and childbirth rituals.

Oak

Celtic symbol for protection and strength; sacred tree of Heracles/Hercules and Jupiter/Zeus; sacred tree of Norse god Thor; acorns are symbols of fertility and spiritual growth.

The oak represents courage, endurance and the protective power of faith. In some Tarot decks the Hanged Man hangs from an oak tree.

The qualities of the suit of Pentacles is symbolised by oak leaves.

Olive Tree

A sacred tree for many cultures, it is associated with light and enlightenment as the oil was used as a lamp fuel in ancient times.

In Islamic tradition, the olive tree represents the world tree or world axis.

In Judeo-Christian tradition, a dove brought an olive branch to Noah as a message that the flood was over.

The olive tree symbolises peace, fruitfulness, purification and wisdom. A branch appears on the RWS Ace of Swords.

Palm Tree

The palm tree, with its solar-like spread of the strong leaves, was associated with victory in Roman times.

Victorious gladiators would be awarded with palm fronds due to the size and evergreen habit, which suggests longevity.

The palm tree and its leaves signify masculinity and assertiveness. A palm branch hangs from the RWS Ace of Swords.

Pine

In Greek mythology the pine tree was sacred to Artemis, the moon goddess who presided over childbirth; also associated with gods of wine like Dionysus and Bacchus.

Pine cones were used in fertility rites and the pollen was used in money spells. Pine resin was burned to clear negative energies, which could also be done by scattering pine needles around.

Its height (taller than most other trees) symbolises foresight, objectivity and overview. Also suggests nature, fertility and life force.

Pomegranate

Symbolises fertility, new possibilities, ‘new birth’ symbol; creative, receptive and feminine energy. Seen on the veil behind the RWS High Priestess.

Rose

Roses symbolise beauty and perfection; they are often associated with the pentagram because of its five-petal structure.

Roses that are clearly depicted with five petals relate to the five senses and the inner five-pointed star of the apple; in horticulture, the rose is linked with the apple, which is also a member of the rose family.

Roses in Tarot decks are mainly red or white. Red signifies passion and desire (not necessarily sexually); white roses can indicate spirit, soul and abstract thought.

A five-pointed white rose can be found on Death’s banner in the RWS deck, signifying the Mystic Rose of life.

Red roses appear on the RWS Nine of Swords as a symbol of the heart and strong emotions. The red roses on Crowley’s Star symbolise love and fertility.

Sunflower

Sunflowers are symbols of devotion and steadfastness, as their flower heads follow the sun during the day. They appear on the RWS Sun and the Queen of Wands.

Tiger Lilies

In the Seven of Cups of Crowley’s Thoth deck, the lotus blossoms, which appear on all other Cup cards of the deck, have turned into tiger lilies, dropping their poisonous nectar into the chalices symbolising ‘deceptive, sinister seduction’ (Banzhaf/Theler).

Wheat

Wheat represents the entire cycle of nature: death, rebirth, resurrection. It suggests nurturing, abundance and fertility.

Psychologically, wheat tied together symbolises the integration of inner opposites, the conscious and the unconscious.

Which plants do you notice in your tarot cards? Please share in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Global Tarot Year Card 2020: The Emperor

Tarot of Quotes

The Emperor in the Tarot (key 4 in the Major Arcana) is our planet's year card for 2020 based on numerology (2+0+2+0 = 4).

This card symbolises power and control issues in both beneficial and challenging ways.

For many people, the world has become an unsettling place - fascist leaders taking control, inequality, rise in crime, radical climate change activism, environmental catastrophes around the world, the sheer volume of plastic waste, unsustainable consumption, war in the Middle East, fake news, political corruption and gaslighting...

It all started in2016 with the Brexit Referendum in the UK and continued into  2017, the Wheel of Fortune year, in which Trump took office in the White House.

Since then, our heads have been spinning caused by a dazzling speed of change beyond our control.

But 2020 is the year of the Emperor - a reminder we need to step back into our power and become leaders of light and hope in our families, communities, at work, in our relationships and also for ourselves.

This means we have to get fully engaged with the world, get active, speak up and debate, join and support groups to contribute towards making a difference.

Taking responsibility that we are all to blame for the state of the world, and now it's time to make amends by radically changing our ways.

The Emperor has a vision of where he wants to be in the future. He is passionate, ambitious, driven and doesn't shy away from confrontation.

He is in control by making plans and getting organised.

He is creating a solid foundation - a springboard - from which he can progress, move forward and grow.

At a global level during 2020, we will see more people questioning old structures and institutions (Meghan and Harry, Iran protests, healthcare funding, climate emergency...). This will continue into 2021, the year of the Hierophant.

There will be power struggles between governments and new grassroot movements demanding change.

The dark side of the Emperor will show up, and we have to face it head on: narcissism and control issues.

Look at neo-fascist populist leaders taking control all over the world by spreading misinformation and character assassinations on a global scale through social media.

The population is being controlled by lack of funding for education. The government doesn't want our children to become digitally intelligent. This would expose government's lies and damage their power.

We have to take education (including critical thinking and fact-checking) in our own hands.

The Emperor is linked to the zodiac sign Aries - what will be started, may not necessarily come to a conclusion.

Projects borne out of passion or anger may be aborted midway due to intense emotions diminishing, lack of interest, energy, a short attention span.

Without a good plan and preparation, even the best intentions and ideas despite enthusiasm may not lead to anything and just dissipate.

I'm watching the Labour leadership election and development of Extinction Rebellion (and other environmental protest movements) with the Emperor in mind. 

The Emperor is this year's global year card, which means that while this masculine, yang energy has a strong influence on our personal lives, it also works combined with our personal year cards.

The global year card represents our external influences - opportunities and challenges, global events and developments we cannot control.

Our personal year card represents internal energy - strengths, weaknesses, attitudes, beliefs, values, choices, desires, our actions and responses to global year card energies.

How does your personal year card interact with the current global year card?

Take these three steps to start exploring:

1. What's your first impression when looking at both cards together?

2. What element/s are represented? (earth, air, fire, water...)

3. What astrological correspondences? (planets, zodiac)

Elements and astrological correspondences can give you an indication, whether your combination is friendly, supportive, neutral, conflicting or challenging.

You can then explore how to harness, resolve and align these energies to your advantage.

This work isn't done in a day. It's an ongoing project that lasts a whole year.

How is the Emperor energy reflected in your part of the world? Let me know in the comments 😃

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Saturn Cards In The Tarot

After Jupiter, the next stop in the line of ancient planets is Saturn.

In astrology, this planet is associated with hardship, discipline and limitations, the latter being reflected in the famous rings composed of rocks and ice surrounding it.

Saturn is named after the Roman god of agriculture, who was also in charge of conformity, social order and creating civilisations.

Saturn is ruler of Capricorn, hence the presence of the Devil amongst the Saturn cards.

Saturn's prime attribution in the Major Arcana is to the World. In the Rider Waite deck, we see the wreath around the figure, which we can link to Saturn's rings.

Although the World is a card of completion, achievement and self-realisation, the Saturn energy also suggests boundaries and limitations.

Additional meanings of the World derived from Saturn: the end of the line; as good as it gets; the need for self-regulation; maintaining of what has been achieved.

Saturn reflects our innate desire for structure and order, and in the Devil its energy is reflected in a hard-working nature, which can easily descend into slaving along in dull routines, narrow-mindedness and lack of growth.

In astrology, Saturn is regarded as the greater malefic, which means it can indicate negative energy such as hardship and sadness.

Saturn in the tarot is linked to the following pip cards:

• Five of Wands (Saturn in Leo)
• Ten of Wands (Saturn in Sagittarius)
• Eight of Cups (Saturn in Pisces)
• Three of Swords (Saturn in Libra)
• Seven of Pentacles (Saturn in Taurus)

How does Saturn influence the card meanings? Here are some suggestions:

Five of Wands - quarrels and misunderstanding due to narrow-mindedness; everyone is just focused on their own agenda. No discipline; rules not adhered to; lack of progress; a dull routine interrupted, pushing boundaries

Ten of Wands - awareness of self-limitations; bogged down; carrying the World on your shoulders; discipline and self-reliance creates suffering; sense of duty

Eight of Cups - leaving something behind that offered no more growth; having outgrown a situation; leaving the comfort zone; looking for something more unconventional; walking away from responsibility

Three of Swords - sadness, melancholy, emotional endurance, cold-heartedness; a painful lesson learned; having lost something comfortable or secure; being restricted by grief; absorbed by loss, not seeing a way out; stuck in a gloomy world

Seven of Pentacles - new growth outside the comfort zone; sowing new seeds; perseverance; hard work paid off; hesitating about taking a risk; security is important; frustrated about limited success

These are just a few ideas how Saturn influences the meanings of these cards. You are welcome to share yours in the comment box below.

You can also try this exercise: 

Pick out all the Saturn cards from your deck. Which of the pip cards would you relate to which Major Arcana card?

Take into account visual clues as well as similar meanings. For example, I see the Ten of Wands linked to the Devil, and the Seven of Pentacles to the World.

But you may have different ideas. How do you see the Saturn cards connected with each other? 

Post your ideas in the comment box below.

⭐For this exercise I have created journaling sheets, which you can download from my Ko-fi page⭐

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling