The Act of Manifestation
Author: Catherine Buck
Date: 2013-08-12 04:00:00+00:00
Publisher: Catherine S Buck

A Small Introduction and Thanks

What is this system?  It is a system made up of numbers and symbols with a blend of psychological interpretations. It is taught through sight, sound and color. The Tarot is a system that can help you develop the use of your natural intuition. Intuition is viable as an evolutionary part of human survival through the use of our five senses. We know that we are naturally drawn to patterns and the order of the universe. The more information we are able to absorb, the more we comprehend. We look towards our future and question.  As you study, you will find it will be easier to understand another person’s card layout and explain it to them. You will soon become both teacher and student.  This training will also bring you to a greater understanding of your own personal perspective as well. You will see things differently and with more clarity.

Over many years, I have taught classes and workshops. I’ve enjoyed doing talk radio over a TV spot. This is my second tarot book; third, if you count a small book in a video I did. Tarot is a great counseling tool.  It is informative and can help you hone up your natural intuitive abilities. This is not about “crossing someone’s palm with silver” or becoming someone others would fear.  Take the time to study it. It can be used as a viable working system. It’s interesting and fun.

I would like to express my appreciation to all of you for bearing with me. Thanks also to my friend and computer wizard Joshua Bohen. His helping hand was there when I needed to understand more about computer graphics and page set up. He worked many hours.  I would also like to acknowledge Herbert Britt, James Bush, Andrew Erickson and Adam Balevic for the editing, reading and publishing advice. Thanks, guys!

This book is the compilation of thirty years of personal study.

Table of Contents

Part I. Learning to Read the Tarot

A Little Piece of History

To Begin

The Elements

The Color Connection

Numerology and the Tarot Cards

Astrology in the Tarot

Meaning of the Four Suits

Meanings of the High Arcana

The Part Intuition Plays

Intuitive Meditation

The Beginning Layout

Part II Advanced Studies

Tarot and the Tree of Life

Breakdown of the High Arcana

Technical Astrology

Sample of Tarot Card Groupings

Other Card Layouts

A Little Piece of History

With the creation of printing around the 7th century and paper around the 9th, China produced some of the first playing cards used for entertainment. They were a set of domino - like cards and seemed to have brought great enjoyment. With the advancement of the Silk Road, the concept of cards spread through the Middle East and from there, to Europe.

During the 14th century, Charles VI of France commissioned a painter to create three card decks for him. Some of these are still in existence though they seemed more like portrait cards than gaming cards. By the 15th century, the use of card decks exploded across Europe. In Italy, people were playing a card game called Tarocchi that became all the rage. Looking very much like a modern tarot deck, these cards were used to take “tricks” from an opponent. It was so popular that the deck is still available today. In France, the French people played a game with a set of cards called Tarot or Triumphs. The deck had 78 cards with 22 of them used as trumps.

In the 18 century, a card deck was created and used only for divination. The Ettellia Tarot deck was published in 1788. Jean-Baptiste Alliette, otherwise known as Ettellia, created the deck in order to divine the power of inner sight. It was during his time that astrology and the elements were also added into the system. By the late 19th century, occultist Eliphas Levi wrote of the use of the tarot in connection with westernized Kabbalah and Pythagorean numerology.

Known occultists, Aleister Crowley and S. L. Macgregor Mathers studied Levi’s works. They added further mystical connotations to the subject. Crowley and Lady Freda Harris went on to create the infamous Thoth deck, which was published many years after their deaths in 1977. In 1978, Robert Wang, a student of Israel Regardie, published The Golden Dawn Tarot.

Regardie was a member of the esoteric group the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. Crowley and Mathers once were members as well and the information Regardie gave to Wang was said to have been the teachings of Mathers. Wangs' deck was published only after Mathers’ death. It had been used privately for years by initiates of the order. The deck adds Hebrew letter alignments. Both the Thoth and The Golden Dawn decks are still in publication today.

In the early 20th century, Arthur E. Waite and illustrator Pamela Coleman Smith published a deck that has become one of the most popular tarot decks used by professional readers today: the Rider-Waite Deck. This is the deck I am using for this book.

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To Begin….

Creating something with intent or purpose gives it power.

A tarot deck, by definition, consists of seventy- eight cards. They are broken into two sections or “books.”  In tarot card traditions, each “book” is called the arcane or Arcana; The word meaning mysteries or hidden truths.

The first book, or high mysteries, is a special set numbered 0-21. The high mysteries are called the Major Arcana and interact with the higher spiritual aspect in a person’s life. These cards represent mankind on its spiritual journey across the universe towards knowledge.

The second set, consisting of the lower or mundane mysteries are called the Minor Arcana. These are the 56 cards that are broken down to four trump suits with ten pips each and a family unit. These relate to a person’s day to day life. Each family unit normally breaks down to a father (King), mother (Queen), son (Knight or Prince or Prodigal) and child or baby (Page or Princess). The card titles, of course, depend on which deck you are using. I use the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck which can be bought at any local metaphysical shop or through US Games System.

This book is my approach to the breakdown of deck’s system through my years of study.

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The four trump suits can represent an element, a direction, a season, a time or an angelic presence. They can be considered masculine or feminine.  The suits connect to astrology and numerology as well. The chart on the next page can give you a better understanding.

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There are four types of trumps in this deck. They are called:

Cups, Wands, Pentacles and Swords.

The Four Elements

(From left to right: Earth, Fire, Air and Water)

The Elements: What Do They Mean?

Cups- Water

Wands – Fire

Pentacles – Earth

Swords – Air

Cups-Element of Water

It is the element in the tarot that represents feelings; emotions and intuition. Water meditation: The element of Water is constant in its movement. There is flux and flow. There is birth and rebirth. It can also wash away things in its wake.

Wands- Element of Fire

It is the element in the tarot that represents leadership; the sexual (male), creative and spiritual.

Fire meditation: The element of Fire rushes forward. It crackles and burns. It transposes and transforms. It becomes the light within the darkness.

Pentacles- Element of Earth

It is the element in the tarot that represents strength; the sexual (female); it is also structure and physical abundance.

Earth meditation: The element of Earth moves forward with strength and weighted force. Rich and fertile, it layers itself to solid form. It becomes the foundation of reality.

Swords- The Element of Air

It is the element in the tarot that represents intellect; quick movement and stress.

Air meditation: The element of air blows forward. It brings forth thoughts and ideas. It penetrates; seeking truth. It becomes the imagination.

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The Color Connection

The colors on each tarot card have a meaning. Here are some of the interpretations of the color scale that is used:

Red – Passion, courage, vitality, fiery, anger

Orange – Life force, energy, activity, social, warmth

Yellow – Intelligence, creativity, optimistic

Green – Fertile, growth, healing, prosperity

Light Blue – Compassion, serenity, inspiration

Blue or dark blue – Insight, loyalty, focus

Indigo – Intuition, stability

Purple – Spirit, wisdom, power, imagination

Gray – Integration, mysticism

White – Purity, innocence, light, revealing

Black - Authoritative, powerful, darkness, hidden

Brown – Earthy, grounded, secure, material gain

You can see how colors are important. Each color also has a vibration or tone.  I have included these in the High Arcana breakdown towards the end of the book. Color and tone can open up a cognitive pathway for path working meditation. This occurs by aligning vibration pitch with the chakra color in the body.

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Numerology and the Tarot Cards

Numbers have always carried a significant vibration and meaning. Traditional numerology charts are set up one through nine with the alphabet placed underneath each number. A multi- digit number is added together to become a single digit. Example: 10=1+0=1.

The pips in the Minor Arcana are numbered one through ten. The ten is a completion number which flips to become a new beginning (10=1+0=1). The one becomes a new beginning after something is completed (ten).

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

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The first pip in the tarot deck is called an Ace. Traditionally, the ace is a new beginning and the root or base of the power of the element it represents.

Examples: Ace of Cups = the root of the power of Water; Ace of Wands – the root of the power of fire;  Ace of Pentacles – The root of the power of Earth;  Ace of Swords – the root of the power of Air

Let’s take a look at the number system. It is one of the things you need to remember when you are doing a card reading.

Number 1 or Ace - This number means new beginnings through thoughts or ideas.  One is the number of individuality as well as the self or ego. One is the number of the male God. Astrologically, 1 is the number of the Sun.

Number 2 - Two is the number of love and relationships. It can also represent balance and polarity. Feminine and lunar influenced. Two is the number of the Moon.

Number 3 - Three is the number of change. It also represents cycles beginning and ending and movement. It is the trinity; the family unit (Father, Mother, Child). It is also the number of time. Three is the number of the planet Mercury.

Number 4 - This number means structure and form. Traditionally, four is the number of the earth. It is considered the “first or beginning foundation” number. Four is the number of Venus and the Earth.

Number 5 - Five is the number of chaos as well as creation. The number is considered the number of mankind and relates to man’s five senses. Five is also a number of social interaction and sexuality. Five is the number of Mars.

Number 6 - Six is the number of the heart, home and family. It is the center of the life force and is considered the most balanced of all the numbers. In astrology, six is the number of Jupiter.

Number 7 - Considered to be one of the most sacred of numbers. Number seven represents the manifestation of things through intelligent thought. A seven number usually indicates that a person should step back and analyze the situation.

Number 8 - The number eight can be compared to the infinity symbol upright. It is a number    of business and risks; even gambling. Swift changes bring about a completion of a situation.

Number 9 – Number nine is the number of Initiation and intuition. 3x3=9. This means cycles and changes occurring in layers bring about evolution. It is also a number that represents service to mankind and public works.

Number 10 – In the tarot, it is the number of completed perfection. In numerology, it does not exist on the graft unless it becomes 1+0=1. As it builds up in strength (from 1 to 10), this is considered a “second generation” card. Ten is an expanded family number. It is like reaching the top and then flipping over to start anew. The number one is the beginning and the number ten is the completion. Example: 10 of Pentacles- family wealth or property; 10 of Wands- a family that has moved around a lot or has been uprooted or separated; 10 of Swords- family endings or history of family abuse; 10 of Cups- rebuilding of the emotion home; emotional fulfillment.

*** It is important to have a grasp of this number system.

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The Numbers and the Planetary System:

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ASTROLOGY IN THE TAROT

There are many ways in which astrology plays a part in our daily lives. Though the signs represent an aligned set of stars in the sky, the astrological alignments themselves represent a psychological pattern of the people born during these times.

By giving you a breakdown on the background of how these signs are represented, perhaps you can see how astrologers are able to correctly fit the personality pattern to people born on a certain birth date.

Let’s start by looking first at the planets:

The Planets

The Sun, Moon, and planets are the inner mysteries that align with the astrological and element signs in the cards. Perhaps by defining what they represent, it can help you understand the Tarot as well as some basic astrology.

The Sun – The ego; Life Force. This is your pride or star quality. Extrovert. Deals with realization and intelligence. The outward self. Symbolizes the father or god aspect.

The Moon – This is the hidden side of the self. It represents emotions and perceptions, Instincts, moods, hidden or psychic abilities are lunar influenced. Fears. Birth. Mother or goddess influenced. Cycles or tides.

Mercury – Logic, communication, travel; the written word. Selflessness and dexterity; messages. The mind and its workings.

Venus–Love, sexual desire; abundance. Comfort and beauty. The desire to be stable. Pleasure. The female sexual self.

Mars – War and aggression; stress. Power and early identity. Sexual passion; anger, independence. The male sexual self.

Jupiter – Faith, beliefs, values, ethics. The search for truth. Philosophy. Religion. Reaching for the highest goal.

Saturn – Discipline; limitations. Authority; instincts and drive; ambitions; learning through experience. Reality.

Uranus – Quest for freedom; original beliefs or ideas. Humanitarian causes. Changes occurring quickly. Needing to understand truth.

Neptune – Mysticism the use of imagination; fantasy. Universal love and beauty. Saviors or victims. Escapism; quest for oneness.

Pluto – Transformation. Sexual drive. Abrupt endings. Self-mastery. Dark or intense urges. Power. Compulsions.

The Astrological Signs

The Earth – This is the Pentacle suit in the Rider-Waite Tarot. The Earth signs are:

Taurus – The Bull

Capricorn – The Goat

Virgo – The Virgin

These signs are stubborn, willful, earthy, practical and structured. They like to work with money and physical things.

The Air – This is the Sword suit in our deck. The Air signs are:

Gemini – The Twins

Aquarius – The Water Bearer

Libra – The Scales

These signs are intelligent, analytical and standoffish. They look for the fine details in things. They express and communicate.

The Fire – This is the Wands suit in the Rider-Waite deck. These are:

Aries – The Ram

Leo – The Lion

Sagittarius – The Archer

These signs are creative, sexual, hardworking and faithful to family and friends. Traditional and strong-willed, they sometimes have a hard time letting go of the past.

The Water – This represents the cups suit. These are:

Pisces – The Fish

Cancer – The Crab

Scorpio – The Scorpion

These signs are nurturing, care giving, intuitive and dreamy. They can be very intense and secret. Fantasy is strong in this suit.

Now we can put the two aspects together. Each minor arcane card has an astrological as well as a planetary attribute.

Astrological Alignment of the High Arcana

This alignment is set up with three distinct astrological key words. When dealing with astrological signs, these are used a great deal in interpreting an element’s placement in a sign. These are:

Cardinal – This is the mode of Initiation. It gets things moving forward.

Fixed – This is the mode of Persistence. It pushes to get things completed.

Mutable – This is the mode of Flexibility. It can adapt or alternate.

The Element Alignment of the Astrological Signs

Capricorn – Cardinal Earth

Aquarius – Fixed Air

Pisces – Mutable Water

Aries – Cardinal Fire (Active)

Taurus – Fixed Earth

Gemini – Mutable Air

Cancer – Cardinal Water

Leo – Fixed Fire

Virgo – Mutable Earth

Libra – Cardinal Air

Scorpio – Fixed Water

Sagittarius – Mutable Fire

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Meaning of the

Four Suits

By understanding the background influences, it helps build a foundation. Traditionally, the four suit symbols have magical connotations. For those of you who have studied esoteric beliefs, this phrase may sound familiar. “To know, to dare, to will and to keep silent” are the four laws of the magical mysteries. Look at how they apply to the suits:

To Know – This represents the Cups suit. All of Life’s experiences and what you have learned from them is applied to the cup symbol.

To Dare – This represents the Swords suit. It means to penetrate matter. One must learn to face oneself and cut away the things that hinder growth.

To Will – This represents the Wands suit. It means that anyone has the ability to accomplish what he or she wants through the sheer act of will.

To Keep Silent – This represents the Pentacles suit. Man’s possibilities – realizing that all things can manifest. The void can be filled with the right knowledge.

Starting with the Cups suit, let’s break down the meaning of each card in the Minor Arcana.

CUPS – (To Know) This family suit is sometimes called the artistic or emotional family suit. They are very caring, nurturing and intuitive. Traditionally, these folks are light in coloring and have brown or blondish hair. This suit represents the astrological signs Cancer, Pisces, and Scorpio.

King – The man of your dreams, a father figure; a man of vision; a religious figure.

Reversed – A weak or faithless man; a liar or emotional manipulator.

Queen – A caring woman, mother figure. A psychic or knowing person.

Reversed - A clinging woman, emotionally overwhelmed. Not trustworthy.

Knight – A lover; a messenger of love. A dreamer. An artistic man.

Reversed – An unfaithful lover; can also mean avoiding emotional problems or confrontations.

Page – A baby. A gift of love. A message of happiness.

Reversed – Unwanted emotions; being open to be deceived.

10 – Rebuilding of a home; a move; marriage.

Reversed – A tearing down; emotional upheaval or violence.

9 – Happiness; emotional fulfillment. Success. Trust.

Reversed – Being unhappy; looking back at mistakes in life.

8 – Emotional completion. A good working relationship.

Reversed – Walking away emotionally; being fed up with a relationship. Risking too much for love.

7 – Setting goals for projects. Artist creation. Wishes, daydreams and fantasies.

Reversed – Stepping back in a negative way in dealing with emotions. Not allowing yourself to feel. Using your head instead of your heart.

6 – Memories – Looking back at the past. Family.

Reversed – Looking ahead; to renew. Letting go of the past.

5 – Emotional upheaval. Losing some but not all.

Reversed – Isolation; feeling impoverished.

4 – Emotional choice. Can also indicate boredom.

Reversed – Something new is coming your way. A relationship.

3 – Celebration; a family or social gathering. Birth.

Reversed – To bring things to a close; an achievement.

2 – Love; relationship, friendship.

Reversed – False friends; false love. Seeing things through rose-colored glasses.

1 or Ace – A new emotional beginning; love in its first moments of passion.

Reversed – Unstable emotions; false joy.

SWORDS – (To Dare) This suit is called the scientific or warrior class. Intelligent, aggressive, and focused, they use their mind to achieve their goals. They are somewhat withdrawn and have a tendency to analyze and pick things apart. White - blond or gray haired people, though in some traditions, their hair is dark. They represent the air signs Gemini, Aquarius, and Libra.

King – An intelligent man; a private person. He could be a veteran of the war or policemen. If one looked at age, he would be an older man.

Reversed – A controlling man; a man lacking emotion. A self-centered man.

Queen – A widow. A divorced woman. Highly intelligent and in control of situations. Could represent an older woman, veteran of the war or policewoman.

Reversed – A cunning and deceitful woman; bitter.

Knight – An intelligent or blunt young man.

Reversed – A cruel person; actions without thought; lawlessness.

Page – An intelligent child; a rash child.

Reversed – Holding in anger; being confused or stressed.

10 – Pain; depression; sorrow, endings. Could be a cycle card of abuse.

Reversed – Temporary success or power that quickly falls apart.

9 – Nightmares; sleep problems; being at war with yourself; poisoning.

Reversed – Fear, being ashamed.

8 – Bondage; imprisonment; sickness.

Reversed – Insanity; mentally picking things apart.

7 – Doing too many things at once; plans that fall through.

Reversed – To take what is not yours; slander.

6 – A journey across water; overcoming hard times.

Reversed – To make something public knowledge.

5 – Picking up the rest of the pieces after a struggle.

Reversed – A loss of honor.

4 – To make plans; to rest.

Reversed – Ideals that become reality. Taking time to do things right.

3 – Change of mental attitude.

Reversed – Sorrow and tears.

2 – Mental balance; peace.

Reversed – Stress; running on the edge of a situation.

1 or Ace – An idea; a new mental attitude.

Reversed – Slanted ideals; an abrupt cutting away.

WANDS – (To Will) This suit is called the traditional or worker family. They create from scratch to build a foundation. Stubborn, willful, and faithful, they are usually the people who fight for causes and are strong friends. Dominant and sexual, they represent the fire signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius in astrology. They are defined as having red or brown hair.

King – A fiery, dominant, willful man. Creative and sexual; could be a workaholic. A traditional man.

Reversed – A brutal man; someone who feels that only his way is the right way.

Queen – A sexual woman. Strong willed and stubborn. Spiritually traditional. A staunch friend.

Reversed – An over-dominant woman. Territorial to the point of being vengeful. A frustrated woman.

Knight – A creative young man. Impulsive and restless. Could also be a message of travel.

Reversed – A young man that is flighty and lacking responsibility. Could represent an irresponsible act.

Page – A child with red or brown hair. A child from a traditional family. This Page is called “The Messenger” page. The card can mean a message is coming.

Reversed – Lack of communication.

10 – To move or uproot. Carrying more than your share.

Reversed – To be overwhelmed or over-worked. Spiritual or creative hardships. Divorce.

9 – Gut feelings that pay off. Things manifesting through hard work or creative endeavors.

Reversed – To defend yourself or your situation. To prepare.

8 – Traditionally called “swiftness,” this card deals with communication and travel. Airplane trips, E-mail, telephone and written letters fall under this card.

Reversed – Things not happening quickly enough. Lack of communication.

7 – To be able to step back and be successful. To have the high ground.

Reversed – Putting yourself on a pedestal. Keeping apart from people or things. Stepping back and losing out.

6 – Victory and success. Honor.

Reversed – Lack of success, Loss of honor or respect.

5 – Creative situations or society. Social or sexual pursuits.

Reversed – Competition or game playing.

4 – Creative foundation. Writing. Signing of papers. Can be one of the cards indicating marriage or celebration.

Reversed – Lack of foundation, situation built on dreams and nothing more. Not having a choice in creating what you want.

3 – Waiting for changes to occur. Creating something new.

Reversed – No change at this time. Having to wait for something to change.

2 – Dominion. Creation.

Reversed – Lack of balance or creativity; ungrounded.

1 or Ace – New spiritual, creative or sexual beginning.

Reversed – Needing to start anew but not going forward.

PENTACLES – (To Be Silent) This suit is called the merchant class or landowner suit. Practical, independent, earthy and disciplined, these people construct and build. The astrological signs Taurus, Capricorn and Virgo align with this group. Here are some examples of what this suit can represent:  stable and down to earth; could be dark-haired people, foreign or black people, business owners or supervisors, well to do or wealthy people; anything that can deal with money or property.

King – A foreign or dark haired man. A well to do man. Business owner or lawyer. A person who is practical in his dealings.

Reversed – A con man. A man who uses power to get his own way. A selfish man.

Queen – A mysterious woman. A practical mother figure. An independent woman. A woman with money.

Reversed – A sneaky or unscrupulous woman. A manipulator.

Knight – A practical or earth signed young man. Characteristics of all of the above because he is the son of both mother and father of this suit. The Knight can also represent contracts, legacy, or the cleaning out of a situation.

Reversed – Not taking practical measures at hand. A spend thrift.

Page – A foreign, black or dark haired child. This card can also mean a grounding situation, a gift, a raise or a small project.

Reversed – Not being acknowledged for the effort put forth.

10 – Wealth, land or property. A strong foundation. Physical fulfillment.

Reversed – Loss of physical things. Structure turned upside down.

9 – Working towards physical completion. Taking time alone to set out what you want and what you don’t. Making last minute changes to something already constructed.

Reversed – Not being able to sort out all the pieces. Being too high minded rather than practical.

8 – Work, craftsmanship or construction. Business. Completion of a project.

Reversed – Running too many risks. Making money through other people’s hard work and not your own. Being too picky.

7 – Analyzing physical situations. Stepping back to see what has been completed.

Reversed – Allowing things to fall apart. Stagnant. Not getting involved when you are needed.

6 – Being practical by taking things one step at a time. Working towards a goal that will fulfill your heart’s desire. Giving things away.

Reversed – Doling things out. Not spending time or attention at home with people or things.

5 – Realizing there is a light at the end of the tunnel; taking a bad situation and making it a good one.

Reversed – Poverty; physical disruption. Conflict or physical fights.

4 – Physical structure; first foundation. Reality check.

Reversed – Being too tight with money or things. Holding things inside yourself. Holding on to the past.

3 – Physical changes. Growth through ideas by making them a reality. A money change for the better. Physical movement.

Reversed – A lack of change or physical growth.

2 – Physical balance. Being able to juggle more than one situation at a time.

Reversed – Having to borrow money from one person to pay another. Juggling more than one sexual relationship or lifestyle.

1 or Ace – New physical beginnings. A new job or money source. Physical or sexual awakening.

Reversed – No follow through when things can be constructed. A loss of money source. No physical thought given to ideas.

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Meanings of the High Arcana

NOTE: Each card will be broken down in depth later in the second chapter

0. THE FOOL – An opportunity. Innocence. To go out in the world. Being open to new ideas. Androgyny.

Reversed – Foolish acts; betrayal.

1. THE MAGICIAN – Manifestation. Concentrated will. Mind over matter. Communication.

Reversed – Lack of will. Forcing situations to a negative end.

2. THE HIGH PRIESTESS – Secrets. Women’s mysteries. Psychic or Intuitive knowledge.  Being independent.

Reversed – Revealing too much. Not following your gut feelings.

3. THE EMPRESS – Marriage; pregnancy; motherhood. A nurturing person. Abundance. Beauty.

Reversed – Sterile. Giving up too much of yourself and having nothing left for yourself.

4. THE EMPEROR – Structure and law. Business. Authority. Men’s issues. Security.

Reversed – Being judgmental. Power hungry.

5. THE HIEROPHANT – Teaching, learning and education. Tradition. Religion or healing. Could be a teacher, doctor or counselor. A priest or minister.

Reversed – Slanted beliefs. Lack of structure or tradition. False or flawed teaching.

6. THE LOVERS– Love or a love relationship. Choices between right or wrong. Contracts.

Reversed – Unfaithfulness. Bad choices.

7. THE CHARIOT – Going forward towards victory. Having your heart’s desire. Moving. A car or ground moving vehicle. Controlling desires.

Reversed – Out of control. Unable to protect yourself or others.

8. STRENGTH – strength; passion or strong desires. Lust for life. Connection with nature or animals. A desire to communicate.

Reversed – Forcing situations by taking control over others. Stubborn. Dominating.

9. THE HERMIT – Introspection; use of intelligence through experience or education. An elderly or learned person. Trying to perfect a situation or idea.

Reversed – Planned betrayal. Using knowledge to cause grief. Picking everything apart.

10. THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE – Fate; fortune of luck. A span of time or life. The end of one cycle and the beginning of another.

Reversed – Downfall. Endings. A change of fortune in a bad way.

11. JUSTICE – Justice and law. Balance. Karma. Contracts.

Reversed – Unlawful acts. Lack of balance. Not getting what is rightfully yours.

12. THE HANGED MAN – Suspension. Sacrifice out of love. Enlightenment.

Reversed – Crippling situations. Drug, alcohol or emotional abuse. Being a scapegoat. Forced sacrifice.

13. DEATH – Dramatic change; transformation. Hidden agenda.

Reversed – Death, stagnation; A breaking down of situations.

14. TEMPERANCE – Cause and effect; actions taken through time. Patience. Understanding things through what you have learned.

Reversed – Anger; lack of patience; Pressed for time; Lack of understanding. Action taken without proper information.

15. THE DEVIL – Paradox; reorganization. Mirth.

Reversed – Irony. Being bound to material things in life. Being obsessed. Perverse outlook or sexual situation.

16. THE TOWER – To confront; having the courage of your convictions. The breaking down of false ego. To clean out a poisonous situation.

Reversed – Conflicts; blowups; war; disruption. Ruin. Abrupt endings.

17. THE STAR – Hope. Opportunity. Creativity. The door opening to new possibilities. A return of a person or a situation that brings fortune.

Reversed – False hopes; lack of faith. Dreaming but not doing. Disadvantaged.

18. THE MOON – Birth; dreams; sleep; intuition. Strong nurturing feelings. Female cycles. Ebb and flow of the tides.

Reversed – Fear, obsessions; drug, alcohol or eating problems. Hallucinations. Deception.

19. THE SUN – Freedom; realization; the intelligent mind and use of ideas. Light and success. A card that can deal with children.

Reversed – Lack of thought; boundaries. Not recognizing what is before you.

20. JUDGMENT – To judge in an honest way. A cleansing by fire. Resurrection.

Reversed – A harsh verdict. Dishonor. Legal entanglement. To drag up old situations from the past.

21. THE WORLD – Social announcements or communication. Society. The world itself.

Reversed – Scandal; Gossip. Bad social environment.  Time to let go of the past.

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The Part Intuition Plays

All of the information you have just gone over is considered a mental or intuitive “trigger.”

Intuitive ability is either weak or strong depending on how you train your five senses. The more you are aware, the better you can read. Any type of focus or creative work can strengthen it.

Triggers are something we live with every day.  Here’s an example. We drive toward a traffic stoplight. As we are reaching it with our car, the light turns red. We automatically stop because we are taught to do so. Going through a red light may cause damage to us or our cars. The light is red, warning us to stop so the opposite lane can go forward. The red light was a protective warning. It is also a trigger using color.

When reading the cards, you must learn to trust your instincts.  Step back and look in.  Follow through and see if what you have read is true. Keep a journal of your layouts.  Make notes of the pattern combination if it proves to be correct.

You may find the reading you are giving could contain other people’s information as well as the person you are reading for. Usually, a reading is not just about one person.  Realize that we are social animals who connect with others. Information can be picked up psychically by the person from other people. It could be that the person you are reading for may be worried about friends or family. If so, information can come down about them as well.

I cannot stress how much meditation can help you. It opens creative channels and helps develop focus. Take a few moments of peace before reading. I have written a meditation for this book with techniques that personally help me. As time goes on, you will create your own system of relaxation.

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INTUITIVE MEDITATION

(Astral Exploration)

Lay back.  Close your eyes…take four or five slow, deep, even breaths. As your body relaxes, your hands and feet start to become heavy…

Slowly, your muscles become limber. Your legs and arms feel like they are lying on a down pillow. It is as if your whole body is totally relaxed. Lying there, you picture the sun shining through the sheer window drapes by your bed…you smile…knowing it is a beautiful day…

You begin to notice little things; the texture of the sheets that cling to your body…the coolness of the pillow under your head…your senses are fully open… you become one with them… feeling safe and secure…

Gently, you feel your astral self rise from your body. The golden chain that binds your physical form is long and light. It allows you, in astral form, to move around the room. You are free from restrictions as your body rests and your day-to-day mind relaxes. Now that you have risen, you look down on the bed on your physical form.

There is a slight chill of anticipation as you move around and… bit-by-bit, you notice all… the colors, sounds and shapes… take them in one at a time.

Colors, once muted are now vivid and alive… sounds that were a jumble… clear. You wrap yourself around the shapes of things in your room… feeling the smoothness or roughness of the textures. Everything around you feels alive… and you are part of it.

Slowly, you start to understand that you are also part of this energy around you.  Open yourself to sights and senses you have never tried before… explore them and don’t be afraid.  Understand that this is true reality… it is what you are… it is what the room around you is. All is familiar… even the harshness of your fears… but you are not afraid.

All the things around you have been healing and good. But now, it is time to go back to your physical form. As you look again, at your outer self, you touch it… and see the power flow through and strengthen your mortal shell.

You easily become one with your body and connect with the flow of your breath. When you are ready, you will open your eyes. You will feel refreshed and more attuned to who you are.

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The Beginning Layout

There are many ways to do the card spread called the Celtic Cross. It is one of the better beginner’s spreads. This layout is labeled below. The framework consists of ten cards.

As you lay them out, we need to see if there are any connection points. These can be:

1. A predominate suit

2. Repeating numbers of pip cards (ex. 2-3’s, 3-4’s, etc.)

3.  Two or more court cards (King, Queen, Knight or Page)

4. Two or more High Arcana (0 through 21)

This sets up the beginning framework of the reading.

If you understand what the majority of the suit is in a card spread (such as a lot of cups) as well as the numbers, then you can get an idea as to what the reading is going to focus on. Here’s an example:

Look over the whole layout.  Do you have a lot of the cups suit? If so, it could mean you will be looking at emotional issues. Then, look at your number pattern. For example, do you have two threes in the layout? This little number grouping could be interpreted as a change of relationship occurring. Two = relationship / three = change. How about three aces? This can perhaps mean a change of lifestyle. Three = change / ace = new beginnings. Predominate court cards are people and many High Arcana usually mean it is out of your control. A higher force is at work. Here’s more:

Predominate suits in your layout:

On layouts look at suite:

Lots of Cups – Overwhelming emotion.

Lots of Pentacles – Money or physical things.

Lots of Wands – Work; Creative things; Frustration.

Lots of Swords – Sickness, Illness anxiety. Mental stress.

There are two feminine and two masculine suits in each deck.

Cups and Pentacles – Feminine.

Wands and Swords – Masculine.

Once you start to connect the cards, focus and look at it through your own eyes and explain what you see. There is nothing to be afraid of. You may feel unsure at first but as you start telling the person who you are reading for what you see, it may shock them and you. It is also an exercise in intuitive perspective. Step away and look in. Connect the pieces and tell the story. The cards soon open like a book and you will read it. Keeping a journal helps if you use this exercise. Focus; take a moment to meditate. The information will open itself to you.

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Part II.         Advanced Studies

1. Tarot and the Tree of Life

2. Tree of Life
a. Hebrew letters

3. Breakdown of the High Arcana

4. Technical Astrology

5. Sample of Tarot Card Groupings

6. Other Reading Layouts

TAROT AND THE TREE OF LIFE

The mystical concept of “worlds within worlds” has been established in most of the major religious. The Tree of Life is constructed of ten spheres or “sephiroth” and twenty-two paths. By connecting the paths and spheres, a system of thirty-two spiritual directions is recognized. This is considered the structure of our universe. These relate to sounds, colors, the senses, the elements and the heightened awareness of the soul. All is study, focus and faith.

There are three “pillars” or trunks that support this tree. The one of the right is considered a pillar of force. This is called the Pillar of Mercy. The element represented by this pillar is the element of fire. The one on the left, the Pillar of Severity, is the pillar of form. Its element is water. The one in the center is called the Pillar of Mildness or Middle Pillar. The element it relates to is air. It is the pillar that balances the stress of force and form. It helps to create reality as we see it.

The sephiroth and their paths are aligned on the tree in opposites or reflections of each other. In other words, they are a balance of opposites. Positive and negative forces construct our sense of what is real.

From nine of these sephiroth, three triangles are formed. At the crown of the tree or top, the Supernal Triangle is constructed. This represents the Divine or spiritual plane.

The “Mother” letters (Aleph, Mem, Shin) of the Hebrew alphabet are placed within this plane. They represent the elements of creation (air, water and fire). From these maternal elements, earth or physical form (Malkuth) is created. The spheres that connect to this plane are: Kether, Chokmah, and Binah. It makes up Atziluth or the Archetypal world. The letter Yod is represented here and stands for Primal Fire.

This spiritual plane is connected by a bridge or hidden sephirah. It is known as Daath or the Abyss. It is conceived as a great desert that must be crossed in order to reach the Godhead. The Daath represents the throat chakra and its reverberation of sound.

The Ethical Triangle is formed by Chesed, Geburah, and Tiphareth. This triangle represents an individual’s higher development in spirit. It is the struggles and lessons that Man must face in order to reach a state of spiritual self. In this triangle, the concept of “Christ Conscience” or the “Child of the Sun” is conceived.

The Astral Triangle deals with the ability to interact with our intuitive selves as well as form our personality. Both the Astral and the Ethical triangles form the creative and the formative use of the mind. The Astral Triangle is formed by Netzach, Hod and Yesod.

The base of the tree is called Malkuth. It is also known as the “Kingdom”. In it, our primal selves form and construct our reality. It is the world as we see it.

The reason we introduced some of this background to you is to help you understand that the Tarot can open doors both seen an unseen. The cards have as many facets as the human personality.

Those who study esoteric sciences, not only use the Tarot as a way of finding answers, but as a path working tool to understand us. Through study and meditation, we can learn to discover ourselves in a whole new way.

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Tree of Life

Each High Arcana in the Waite tarot is assigned a Hebrew letter. They are placed according to whether the card represents an element, planet or astrology sign. The Mother letters represents elements. The Double letters are planets. The Simple letters are astrological. Information about this is in the next chapter.

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Breakdown of the High Arcana

In order to understand this more completely, it would be helpful to have a deck of traditional Rider-Waite cards as you work with this High Arcana section.

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0 THE FOOL - The Breath of Life

Astrological Sign – None

Planet Ruled By – Uranus

Element – Air

Hebrew Letter – א Aleph – Ox

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents the element of Air, it is considered a “mother” letter. It connects Kether to Chokmah on the tree of life and is the eleventh path of Aleph.

Path color on the Tree of Life – Bright pale yellow

Sound or Tonal – E-Natural

The Fool represents the eternal spirit as well as mankind’s quest for knowledge. It deals with wisdom, folly and innocence.

0 THE FOOL

White Sun – Being in a higher plane; divine nature.

The Yellow Sky – The creation of mental thought and ideas.

The Wheel Design on his clothing – Wheel of Life.

Color on His Clothes - Orange - life force   Green – Fertility   Yellow- Use of the mind.

Feather in His Cap – It is a Phoenix feather. In the old traditions, the Phoenix is constantly reborn by sacrificing itself in the fire (spirit). It arises from the ashes to live again. The feather means that anything can be created by the mind and spirit of man.

The Staff – Represents the measure of all things created.

The White Rose – Purity of intention and spirit.

The Knapsack – Our Karmic duties and responsibilities we carry through this life.

Symbols on Knapsack –Astrological signs. These are powerful influences outside of ourselves.

The Mountain Peaks – These represent the peaks of attainment of knowledge through experience.

Blue on Mountains – Tranquility of spirit.

The Brown Cliff – The building up and breaking down of the structure of Life and its beginnings.

The Dog – Is this the beginning of man’s conscience? The Dog barks a warning for the Fool to step carefully.

1 THE MAGICIAN - The Manifestation of Will

Astrological Sign – None

Planet Ruled by – Mercury

Element – None

Hebrew Letter – ב Beth – House

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents the polar opposites “life-death”, it is considered a “double” letter. It is positioned between Kether and Binah on the tree of life.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Yellow

Sound or tonal – E-natural

The Magician represents the house in which the eternal spirit is kept. Known as the “dwelling place of the soul”, it deals with the manifestation of will and creation of physical form.

1 THE MAGICIAN

The Infinity Symbol – All things must come back to the source.

The Yellow Background – The creation of thought; light and manifestation.

Brown Altar Table– The plane of manifestation; the beginning of our physical reality. Growth and renewal. The table itself represents the boundaries in dealing with a manifested reality.

Tools on Altar – Those and what the magician has in his hand represents the four elements of manifestation.

The Cup: The element of Water; pentacle on the Cup – Represents the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water with the top-most point being Spirit.

The Pentacle: The element of Earth.

The Sword: The element of Air.

The Wand in Magician’s Hand: The element of fire. Also, both the hand jester and the wand itself represents

“As above, so below.”

The Magician is seated before the altar of manifestation. His intense expression shows focus concentration. His hands are drawing energy from above and below in order to create physical reality.

The White Magician’s Robe and Headband – Purity of intent. Red Stole on His Shoulders – The passion for Life. Intensity of purpose.

His Belt – The Ouroboros- Snake eating its own tail – Re-creation and rebirth from the primal elements.  Eternal life; The Teth.

The Lilies and the Roses- Purity (white) and Blood (red) experiences of Life. Some encounters have thorns.

2 THE HIGH PRIESTESS - The Guardian of the Gate

Astrological Sign – None, but associated with all water signs

Planet Ruled By – The Moon

Element – Water

Hebrew Letter – ג Gimel – Camel

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents the polar opposites “peace-war”, it is considered a “double” letter. It is connected to Samekh and Tau on the tree of life and together they form “the core” or “middle pillar”. It is the thirteenth path of intelligence uniting.

Path color on tree of life – Blue

Sound or tonal – G Sharp

The High Priestess represents knowledge and the free will to choose a path into the unknown. She is the keeper of the gate that opens to the Abyss and is the teacher of women’s mysteries and occult knowledge.

2 THE HIGH PRIESTESS

The Blue Background on Card – The color of spirit; the throat chakra; the color placement for the High Priestess on the Tree of Life.

The Gray Pillar – Represents the Pillar of Justice; it is light and masculine. It is the conscious and aggressive side of Mankind.

The Black Pillar - Represents the Pillar of Severity; it is dark and feminine. It is the subconscious and passive side of Mankind.

Both pillars create the structure and polarity of energy on the Tree of Life. Each pillar has the opposite color alignment on their structure to reflect the force that binds them together. They are opposite in polarity; the Tree of Life has also a Tree of Death.

The Letters on the Pillars – Represents Boaz and Joachim, the words meaning strength and stability.

The Cross- It represents the four elements and the spirit that creates reality.

The High Priestess – She is the embodiment of the Middle Pillar. Her throne is the heart of mysteries and its structure. The heart of knowledge must be sought out.

Her Crown – Represents the three phases of the Moon. Waxing, waning and full. It is the phases of womanhood and fertility; Birth and maturity.

Her Gown – Blue – The color of the knowledge and spirit. White - purity.

Designs on Banner – The Pomegranates – Fertility    Palm Branches – Growth.

Crescent Moon – The feminine; Water.

The Book in Her Hands – The TORA – Law; The Book of Knowledge; It is the anagram of the word “Taro”.

3 THE EMPRESS - The Great Mother Nurturer

Astrological Sign – None

Planet Ruled By – Venus

Element – None

Hebrew Letter – ד Daleth – Door

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents the polar opposites “wisdom-folly” it is considered a “double” letter. It connects Binah to Chokmah on the Tree of Life. It unites the Mother and Father aspects on the tree. Known as the “mother of life.” It is the fourteenth path of intelligence illuminating.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Emerald Green

Sound or Tonal – F-Sharp

The Empress represents the abundance of life. She deals with love, marriage birth and care giving and beauty.

3 THE EMPRESS

The Yellow Color in the Sky– The source of thought, ideas bringing forth; creation. Revealing light.

The Green of Plants and Pomegranates on Dress – The deepness of Life’s commitment to itself. Fertility.

Trees in Background – Life taking root.

The Wheat – Abundance; the goddess Demeter; Spring.

The Blue Water – Spiritual realization in the physical world. The water is the ebb and flow of Life’s beginnings.

The Red Color on Cushions, and Roses– Color of passion, life and love. Venus.

Heart with Ankh – Love of Life.

White on gown – Purity of intent.

The Pearls and Roses – These are all symbols of the planet Venus.

Ankhs – Symbol of Life.

The Empress – Mother Nature.

Her Crown – Venus; symbolizes the use of all elements to create Life, including spirit.

Her Scepter – Represents the use of the natural elements to create form.

4 THE EMPEROR - The Lord of Structure and Law

Astrological Sign – Aries

Planet Ruled By – Mars

Element – Fire

Hebrew Letter – ה Heh – Window

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “sight”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It connects Chokmah to Tiphareth on the tree of life. It is the fifteenth path of constituting intelligence.

Path color on tree of life – Scarlet

Sound or tonal – C Natural

The Emperor represents law and structure. It deals with wisdom of the spirit and is considered the father-creator of all life.

4 THE EMPEROR

The Orange Background – The color of life and creativity. It is also the color alignment for the card on the Tree of Life.

The Yellow Background – Use of intelligent thought.

The Gray Throne – Structure backed by wisdom.

The Four Ram’s Heads on Throne – Four is the number of structure. Rams Heads – Aries.

The Emperor – The judge of stern father figure. The male God image in the physical world.

This Beard – Wisdom.

The Red on His Outfit –The red of life’s blood and element of Fire.

His Crown – Shows he has great pride and respect for who he is. Symbolizing rulership.

The Scepter – The joining together of universal forces; it is the symbol and power.

The World in His Hands – Dominion.

The Red Ram’s Skin on His Shoulder – The vision to create and the will to go forward.

His Armored Boots – Protection as he steps forward.

The Rocky Peaks – The pinnacles of success. It also represents learning the hard way.

5 THE HIEROPHANT - The Keeper of Tradition and Belief

Astrological Sign – Taurus

Planet Ruled By – Venus

Element – Earth

Hebrew Letter – ו Vav – Nail

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “hearing”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It connects Chesed to Chokmah on the tree of life. It is the sixteenth path of eternal intelligence.

Path color on tree of life – Red-Orange

Sound or tonal – C Sharp

The Hierophant represents teaching, religion and tradition. By listening within, he has the ability to heal

5. THE HIEROPHANT

The Gray Throne and Pillars – The spiritual basis or background in which reality is built. Integration of spirit.

The Hierophant- Was once called the Pope or Pappas card in other decks.  Meaning: The teacher of tradition; the spiritual priest or advisor.

His Hand- Raised upright in benediction. Fingers 3 up and 2 down – Bridge between the earth and heaven.

The Cross Scepter – Symbolizing power in all worlds.

His Crown – Represents the world of the senses and the world of meaning. His status in this world as a spiritual leader. Triple crown of popes.  3 Prongs- connects spirit to the earth.

Ear Coverings – Inner listening.

White and Red Gown – Purity and passion   Blue at neck - connection to spirit.

3 Colors on His Gown – Represents his place in the three worlds.

White shoes – Shoes of the Fisherman and crosses representing the elements.

The Crosses – The four elements of creation and its spiritual heart or core. There are three on his clothing; two on his shoes; the number of mankind and creation.

The Two Gold Keys and the Rock – Foundation of belief and the keys of the church. They unlock the doors to the universe. Four earth designs on rock – firmness and structure.

The Two Figures Before the Hierophant –Initiates to belief. Polarity and spiritual perspective.

Their Gowns – The Rose – The love of Truth and the acceptance of suffering.  The Lily –The purity of spirit.

The Yellow Suspenders on Each Initiate – Supporting faith and belief.

6 THE LOVERS - The Choice between the Sacred and Profane

Astrological Sign – Gemini

Planet Ruled By – Mercury

Element – Air

Hebrew Letter – ז Zain – Sword

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “smell”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Binah and Tiphareth and is considered the seventeenth path of disposing intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Orange

Sound or Tonal – D Natural

The Lovers represent divine love and deals with duality and manifestation. It is the choice between the sacred or profane.

6 THE LOVERS

The Sun – The use of thought to create matter.

The Clouds – The stuff dreams are made of.

The Mountain Peak – The ability to conquer Life’s experiences. Peaks of pleasure.

The Archangel (red wings) blessing the couple – Raphael (God Heals).

Purple robe – Mystery.

The Green Landscape – Fertility.

The Pool – The Waters of Life; Birth.

The Lovers – Two halves of a Whole.  Naked Male-Female figures revealing passive-aggressive, dark-light, etc.

Tree of Fire – Male sexuality; creativity and Spirit.

Tree of Knowledge with Snake – Temptation. Choice between sacred or profane.

Fruit – Fertility.

7 THE CHARIOT - The Grail Quest

Astrological Sign – Cancer the Crab

Planet Ruled By – The Moon

Element – Water

Hebrew Letter – ח Cheth – Fence

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “speech”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Geburah and Binah and is considered the eighteenth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Red-Orange

Sound or Tonal – C Sharp

The Chariot represents the quest for the divine self or experience. It deals with controlling one’s movement and going forward to find your heart’s desire.

7 THE CHARIOT

The Yellow Sky – Thought.

The Buildings – Structures built by man. Red crowns on buildings – crowned with passion for life.

The Wall – Boundaries.

The field around him – Fertile ground.

The Chariot – A vehicle of movement. A quest.

The Pillars on the Chariot - Reason and logic

The cube – Structure and logic.

Wheels – Changes and movement.

Blanket of Stars – The endless possibilities.

The Shield with Dreidel Symbol on Wagon Board – A top that spins through awareness; Movement.

Circle with Wings on Wagon board –Winged Victory.

Sphinx – Positive (white) and Negative (black) forces that control the direction of Life.

The Charioteer – Mankind in search for the answers.

Laurel wreath – Victory.

Eight pointed Star Crown – Authority.

Crescent Moon on each Shoulder – Waxing and waning of the moon.  Moon is Cancer’s symbol.

Armor – Protection on His Journey.

Square Around His Neck – Structure and logic.

Belt and Hieroglyph – The map of conscientious.

Staff – Manifestation of Will.

8 STRENGTH - The Courage of Convictions

Astrological Sign – Leo

Planet Ruled By – The Sun

Element – Fire

Hebrew Letter – ט Teth - Snake

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “taste”, is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Chesed and Geburah and is considered the nineteenth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Yellow-Green

Sound or Tonal – E-Natural

Strength represents the light or fire in the darkness. It is considered the universal “will” or life force of all things.

8 STRENGTH

The Yellow Background – Solar; mental thought.

The Blue Mountains – Spirit made manifest.

The Trees and Grass – Fertility.

The Lion – The animal kingdom; the astrological sign Leo; brute strength and passion; strong will.

The Female Figure – Mother Nature.

Infinity Symbol – All things come back to the source.

The Crown and belt of roses – Victory in strength.

The Cloth Wrapped Around Her Body – Beginnings that are pure.

Her Hand Reaching Towards the Lion – Lack of fear and the ability to communicate; The connection between all of life.

9 THE HERMIT - The Light Within

Astrological Sign – Virgo

Planet Ruled By – Mercury

Element – Earth

Hebrew Letter –  י Yod – Hand or Open Palm

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “sexual love”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Tiphareth and Chesed and is considered the twentieth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Greenish-Yellow

Sound or Tonal – F-Natural

The Hermit represents the beginnings of direct contact with the Divine. It deals with purity of belief. The word “hermit” means “desert”. The card represents the “vessel” or “hand” of God.

9 THE HERMIT

The Gray Background – Integration of thought to create structure.

The Hermit’s Cloak – The manifestation and balance of dark and light.

His Beard – Age and experience.

The Staff – The measure of a person through their lifetime through the use of knowledge.

The White Mountain Peaks – Power not of this world.

Six Pointed Star – Macrocosm and the Microcosm. Energy of heaven joining with the energy created on earth.

The Lamp – Knowledge.

10 THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE - The Path of Life

Astrological Alignment – None

Planet Ruled By – Jupiter

Element – None

Hebrew Letter – כ Kaph – Fist

Kabbalistic Alignment – It is considered a “double” letter meaning Riches or Poverty. It is between Chesed and Netzach and is the twenty-first path of intelligence.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Violet

Sound or Tonal – A Sharp

The Wheel of Fortune represents fate or fortune and the cycle of existence of things occurring on the earthly plane.

10 – THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

The Clouds – Illusion and Fantasy.

Books in the Four Figures Hands – Knowledge.

The Four Figures in the Corners – The characters carved on the Ark of the Covenant that contained the Ten Commandments.

The Man – Mental Thought.

Element – Air.

Astrological Sign – Aquarius.

Direction – East.

The Lion – Spirit.

Element – Fire.

Astrological Sign – Leo.

Direction – South.

The Eagle – Emotional.

Element – Water.

Astrological Sign – Scorpio.

Direction – West.

The Bull – Physical.

Element – Earth.

Astrological Sign – Taurus.

Direction – North.

The symbols with each character - Represent the elements:

Sword – Air.

Cup – Water.

Burning Wand – Fire.

Pentacles – Earth.

The Blue Sky and Color of Sphinx – Spirit.

The Sphinx – Asks the riddle of time and Man.

The Sword in Its Hand – Penetration of truth; the cutting away of bondage; release.

The Jackal - Hermanubis. Two Egyptian gods blended together. Half Hermes, Half Anubis. Outer self and inner awareness

The Serpent – Kundalini energy

The Outer Hub of the Wheel – Truth

The Square Glyphs – Beginnings of the Structure

The Anagram –

TARO – The Road or Path taken in Life.

ROTA – Wheel

TORA – The Law

ORAT – To speak of Truth

The First Layer of the Wheel – The dark colored Hebrew letters:

Yod Heh Vav Heh – The high name of God; Yahweh

The Hebrew spelling of the word “Taro” or Tarot.

The alchemy symbols – Represent the major chemical elements of life on earth. They are:

Mercury (T), Sulfur (A), Salt (R) and Water (O).

11 JUSTICE - The Karmic Balance

Astrological Sign – Libra – The Scales

Planet Ruled By – Venus

Element – Air

Hebrew Letter – ל Lamed – Ox Goad

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “work’, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Tiphareth and Geburah and is considered the twenty-second path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Emerald Green

Sound or Tonal – F-Sharp

Justice represents the belief of God’s law or judgment. It is considered the card of “karma” and its symbolism relates to “the weighing of the heart” in ancient Egyptian beliefs.

11 JUSTICE

The Yellow Background – Mental thought.

The Gray Structure – Integration of structure and beliefs.

The Curtains and Back of Throne – Inner mysteries; secrets.

Throne – The foundation of the Law.

The Woman Figure – Astraia, the  Greek Goddess of justice.

Crown – Authority.

Square with red and green jewel on Crown and Cape - Structure of justice.

Her Red and Green Clothing – Checks and balances – Green; Life’s action – Red. The colors representing the planet Venus.

The Scales – The weighing of the heart; Balance; The astrological symbol for Libra.

The Sword – The mind; Penetration through a situation. Truth has more than one side.

His Hands - As above, so below.

12 THE HANGED MAN - The Great Sacrifice

Astrological Sign – None

Planet Ruled By – Uranus

Element – Water

Hebrew Letter – מ Mem – Water

Kabbalistic Alignment – It is a “Mother” letter representing the element of water. It connects Hod to Geburah and is the Twenty-third path that stabilizes intelligence.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Deep Blue

Sound or Tonal – G Sharp

The Hanged Man represents the path to enlightenment through sacrifice.

12 THE HANGED MAN

The Gray Sky – Darkness and Light merging. Integration of mind and spirit.

The Tree Frame from Which the Man Hangs – Represents the fertile framework or foundation of structural beginnings. This framework forms the Greek letter “Tau” and represents the “doorway”.

The Hanged Man – His arms are bound; his eyes, to new experiences. He will sacrifice himself in order to receive his spiritual awakening.

Halo – The light of spiritual realization through sacrifice.

His Blue Shirt – Represents the ability to communicate with both physical and spiritual planes.

The Red leggings – The fire of the spirit brought to the physical world. Kundalini energy.

His Pose – This represents strong Jupiter (Fate) and Uranian (Truth) energy.

Yellow shoes – Moving forward with thought and intent.

His Bound Foot – Suspension.

13 DEATH - The Transition of Existence

Astrological Sign - Scorpio – The Scorpion

Planet Ruled By – Pluto and Mars

Element – Water

Hebrew Letter – נ Nun – Fish

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “movement”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Tiphareth and Netzach and is considered the twenty-fourth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Green-Blue

Sound or Tonal – G-Natural

Death represents the beginnings of manifestation through transformation. It is considered a surrender of will to the higher cause.

13 DEATH

The Angel – Azrael, angel of death.

Death Mask- Hide death, making it obscure.

His Black Armor and White Horse – Light and darkness; represents the transition from one reality to another.

Phoenix Feather Drooped – death and then rebirth.

Banner – Life’s connection to death.

White rose – Spirit. Ten petals – completion.

Staff – Regeneration.

The dead on the field – It makes no difference who you are in life, death takes all.

The River – The water of life; embryonic fluid.

Boat on River – Life eternal.

Towers – A place of departure.

The Opening – Birth canal; From darkness to light.

The City, Sun and Vegetation Outside – The promise of a new life.

14 TEMPERANCE - The Alchemy of Life

Astrological Sign – Sagittarius – The Archer

Planet Ruled By – Jupiter

Element – Fire

Hebrew Letter – ס Samekh – Prop

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “anger”, it is considered a “simple” letters. It is between Yesod and Tiphareth and is considered the twenty-fifth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Blue

Sound or Tonal – G-Sharp

Temperance represents the blending of the elements to create a new manifestation. This is done only through patience and will and faith. All these together bring light to the darkness and can make all things possible

14 TEMPERANCE

Gray background – Integration.

The Green Grass – Fertility.

The Rays of light – Intent.

The Iris – Representing the goddess Iris; she helped the souls of men go forward towards rebirth.

The Archangel (Red wings) – Michael- Angel of Fire.

Blond hair – Connection to the mind; Light.

White gown – Purity.

Hebrew letters at his neck - Yod Heh Vav Heh- the holy name of God - Yahweh.

Upright triangle – Symbol of fire.

Square around fire symbol – The balance of powerful forces.

Emblem on brow – Inner vision.

Path – Path of Life.

Mountain – Life experiences.

Angel’s Feet – One on land, one in water- Balance of physical and spiritual.

The Pool – The gathering together of the waters of life; evolution; birth; emotion.

The Golden Cups – Alchemy; vessels used to blend the essence of creation.

15 THE DEVIL - The Bondage of Mind and Body

Astrological Sign – Capricorn – The Goat

Planet Ruled By – Saturn

Element – Earth

Hebrew Letter – ﬠ Ayin – Eye

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “mirth”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Tiphareth and Hod and is considered the twenty-sixth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Indigo

Sound or Tonal – A-Natural

The Devil represents the overcoming of bondage both spiritually and physically in our lives. At the same token, it is a card of “irony” and creates an atmosphere of chaos that creates this bondage. Reorganization is the key.

15 THE DEVIL

The Darkness – The hidden; fear of the unknown.

The Naked Man and Woman – The masculine and feminine in separate forms or nature.

Their Red Hair and Fur and Tails – Man’s animalistic nature.

The Grapes on the Woman’s Tail – Fruit of passion.

The Fire on the Man’s Tail – Sexual desire.

Their Chains – Human nature binds itself.

The Devil – The adversary in both the material as well as the spiritual world; perversity; His hairy coat represents his integration into human existence.

Bat Wings – Symbol of darkness.

Horns - Animal instinct

The Inverted Pentagram – Spirit forced to earth; energy used to a negative end.

Square Devil Sits on – Structure without true form.

The Flaming Torch in His Hand – Temptations and desires.

16 THE TOWER - The Confrontation and Cleansing

Astrological Alignment – None

Planet Ruled By – Mars

Element – None

Hebrew Letter – פ  Pe or Peh – The Word or Mouth

Kabbalistic Alignment – Considered a “Double” letter meaning Grace or Indignation. It is the twenty-seventh path of active intelligence and uses both reason and intuition as its foundation.

It connects Hod with Netzach on the Tree of Life.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Scarlet

Sound or Tonal – C-Natural

The Tower represents the darkness split apart by light. The tearing down of false beliefs or ideas.

16 THE TOWER

The Dark Sky – Darkness in all forms; the dark night of the soul.

The Lead Colored Clouds – Trouble brewing; disruption.

The Lightening – It comes from the heart of the sun; ideas from the mind that breaks down self-righteous foundations; confrontation.

Fire – Burning away to purify

The Tower – A foundation built on ego and god-like actions.

Three windows – The ego.

The Crown of the Tower - The pinnacle of man’s ego.

The Man and Woman Toppling – Masculine (conscious) and feminine (subconscious) forces; not seeing power as a spiritual force.

The Woman’s crown – Falseness.

The Twenty Yods – Paths on the Tree of life.

17 THE STAR - The Greatest Hope

Astrological Sign – Aquarius – The Water Bearer

Planet Ruled By – Uranus

Element – Air

Hebrew Letter – צ Tzaddi – Fish Hook

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “imagination”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Netzach and Yesod and is considered the twenty-eighth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Violet

Sound or Tonal – A-Sharp

The Star represents meditation, imagination, opportunities and hope. It is the belief all things are possible.

17 THE STAR

The Seven Small Eight Pointed Stars in the Sky –The Chakras.

The Large Eight pointed Star – Opportunities.

The Green Grass – The growth of ideas.

The Brown Sand and Rocky Landscape – The shifting of reality.

The Mountains – The peak of attainment; Experiences.

The Water – Emotion; Creativity; Ideas.

The Vessels – The bringing together of creative beginnings.

The Female Figure – Fortuna, goddess of fortune.

Tree – Growth.

Ibis – Symbolic of the Egyptian god Thoth.

18 THE MOON - The mirrored reflection

Astrological Sign – Pisces – The Fishes

Planet Ruled By – The Moon

Element – Water

Hebrew Letter –  ק Qoph – Ear or Back of the Head

Kabbalistic Alignment – Because it represents an astrological sign and a Hebrew letter meaning “sleep”, it is considered a “simple” letter. It is between Netzach and Malkuth and is considered the twenty-ninth path of intelligence.

Path Color on Tree of Life – Ultra-Violet or Crimson.

Sound or Tonal – B-Natural

The Moon represents birth and rebirth both in physical form as well as spirit. It is the overcoming of fear of the unknown - to confront these fears to see your true reality.

18 THE MOON

The Blue Sky – Subconscious.

The Moon – The feminine; Cycles of fertility, Reflection.

Eclipse Male – Female-Sun-Moon overlap. Light after darkness.

The Field – Field of awareness; Beliefs made manifest.

The Path – A way towards the light from darkness.

The Pool – Place of birth; origins.

15 Yods – Feminine fertility; Renewal. 15 (The Devil) = 6 (The Lovers).

Crayfish – Evolution.

Dog – Animal tamed by Man.

Wolf – Primal instincts.

Twin Towers – Altered states of awareness.

Windows – Inner vision.

19 THE SUN - The Brightness of the Coming Day

Astrological Sign – Leo – The Lion

Planet Ruled By – The Sun

Element – Fire

Hebrew Letter – ר Resh – Front of the Head

Kabbalistic Alignment – Considered a “double” letter meaning Fertility or Barrenness. It connects Hod with Yesod and is considered to be one of the thirtieth paths that form the personality of Man.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Orange

Sound or Tonal – D-Natural

The Sun represents intelligence in a collective form. This is done through the mind and the ability to believe all things can be created by the force of will.

19 THE SUN

The Sun – Light; Illumination; warmth; the intellect.

The Sun’s Rays – Male (straight) and female (curvy).

The Blue Sky – Spirit.

Walls in the Background – Boundaries in the past.

The Sunflowers – Represents the sun and the growth that creates new life.

The Grayish-White Horse – The connection of the spirit to the earth; the power to go forward; directions.

Red Banner Surrounding Horse – Blood of Life; passion.

The Child – The soul of Man; rebirth.

Wreath on His Head – Connection above and below as well as the four directions.

20 JUDGEMENT - The Resurrection

Astrological Alignment – Scorpio

Planet Ruled by – Pluto

Element – Fire

Hebrew Letter – ש Shin – Tooth

Kabbalistic Alignment – Connects Malkuth with Hod and is considered a “Mother” letter alignment. It is the thirty-first path of active intelligence.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Violet or Black

Sound or Tonal – Middle C

Judgment represents the breaking down of uninformed ideas and resurrection of true beliefs.

20 JUDGEMENT

Clouds and Blue Sky – Change of conscious thought.

Archangel (red wings) – Gabriel.

Trumpet – Sound; manifestation.

Seven Rays From Trumpet – The 7 chakras.

Flag or Banner - Cross of St. George.

Mountain Peaks – Self-evaluation.

Gray Figures in Background – Integration of the spirit.

Figures in Front – Resurrection and reflection.

Coffins – Transition.

Water – Water of Life and knowledge gained through one’s life time.

21 THE World - The Life Brought Forth Again

Astrological Sign – None

Planet Ruled By – Represents the planet Saturn as well as the Earth in old traditions.

Element – Spirit

Hebrew Letter – ת Tav – Cross

Kabbalistic Alignment – A “double” letter; connects Malkuth with Yesod. Though it is the thirty-second path of intelligence, it is also the first path of spiritual awakening.

Path Color on the Tree of Life – Indigo

Sound or Tonal – A-Natural

The World represents spirit in its pure form. It connects itself to the beginnings of physical manifestation.

21 THE UNIVERSE

The Lead Colored Clouds – Integration of Saturn energy.

The Four Figures in the Corners – The characters carved on the Ark of the Covenant that contained the Ten Commandments.

The Man - Mental Thought.

Element – Air.

Astrological Sign – Aquarius.

Direction – East.

The Lion – Spiritual.

Element – Fire.

Astrological Sign – Leo.

Direction – South.

The Eagle – Emotional.

Element – Water.

Astrological Sign – Scorpio.

Direction – West.

The Bull – Physical.

Element – Earth.

Astrological Sign – Taurus.

Direction – North.

The Green Vegetation around the circle – Circle of Life; fertility.

The Being Inside of the Circle – The being is androgynous being neither male nor female.

Purple Cloth Wrapped Around the Being’s Body – Blending of Life with the spirit in all four aspects: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

The Wands – A balance; as above, so below.

Red Ribbons – Symbol of infinity.

Table Of Contents

Technical Astrology

Table Of Contents

Astrological Alignment of the Minor Arcana

Pentacles or Earth

1 or Ace - The root of the element of Earth

2 of Pentacles - Jupiter in Capricorn

3 of Pentacles - Mars in Capricorn

4 of Pentacles - Sun in Capricorn

5 of Pentacles - Mercury in Taurus

6 of Pentacles - Moon in Taurus

7 of Pentacles - Saturn in Taurus

8 of Pentacles - Sun in Virgo

9 of Pentacles - Venus in Virgo
l0 of Pentacles- Mercury in Virgo

Swords or Air

1 or Ace - The root of the element of Air

2 of Swords - Moon in Libra

3 of Swords - Saturn in Libra

4 of Swords - Jupiter in Libra

5 of Swords - Venus in Aquarius

6 of Swords - Mercury in Aquarius

7 of Swords - Moon in Aquarius

8 of Swords - Jupiter in Gemini

9 of Swords - Mars in Gemini

10 of Swords - Sun in Gemini

Wands or Fire

1 or Ace - The root of the element of Fire

2 of Wands - Mars in Aries

3 of Wands - Sun in Aries

4 of Wands - Venus in Aries

5 of Wands - Saturn in Leo

6 of Wands - Jupiter in Leo

7 of Wands - Mars in Leo

8 of Wands - Mercury in Sagittarius

9 of Wands - Moon in Sagittarius

10 of Wands - Saturn in Sagittarius

Cups or Water

1 or Ace - The root of the element of Water

2 of Cups - Venus in Cancer

3 of Cups - Mercury in Cancer

4 of Cups - Moon in Cancer

5 of Cups - Mars in Scorpio

6 of Cups - Sun in Scorpio

7 of Cups - Venus in Scorpio

8 of Cups - Saturn in Pisces

9 of Cups - Jupiter in Pisces

10 of Cups - Mars in Pisces

FAMILY SUITS AND THEIR

ASTROLOGICAL

CORRESPONDENCE

King of Pentacles

0 - 10° Capricorn

Queen of Pentacles

11 - 20° Capricorn

Knight of Pentacles Spring Season

(all earth signs)

Page of Pentacles

21 - 30° Capricorn

King of Swords

0 - 10° Libra

Queen of Swords

11 - 20° Libra

Knight of Swords Winter Season

(all air signs)

Page of Swords

21 - 30° Libra

King of Cups

0 - 10° Cancer

Queen of Cups

11 - 20° Cancer

Knight of Cups Summer Season

(all water signs)

Page of Cups

21 - 30° Cancer

King of Wands

0 - 10° Aries

Queen of Wands

11 - 2l° Aries

Knight of Wands Fall Season

(all fire signs)

Page of Wands

21 - 30° Aries

Sample
of Tarot

Card Groupings

Table Of Contents

Grouping Sample

(1)

Many cards connect with each other to tell a story and give you extra details. Here are two examples of different situations and the type of cards that can apply.

DEALING WITH THE LAW

Justice and Judgment Cards – Court, legal agencies

With the Emperor Card – A judge or judgment, also government

With the King or Queen of Swords – A policeman or woman government

Agent or military, militant

With the King or Queen of Pentacles – A lawyer, politician, person of

Wealth or position.

With the World Card – International; news

With the Hermit Card – An authority; private investigator; spy

With the Eight of Swords – incarceration

With the Knight of Pentacles Card (if not a person) – legal contracts, inheritance

With the Eight of Wands – papers or communiqués

With the Four of Wands – signing or writing; legal marriage

Grouping Sample

(2)

Dealing with person relationships and love

Ace of Cups – New emotional beginning

Ace of Wands – New sexual beginning

2 of Cups – Love

4 of Wands – Marriage and signing of papers

Empress - Marriage or pregnancy

3 of Cups – Family and celebration

10 of Cups - Emotional building of the home

Trip or travel for honeymoon:

By Car – Chariot

By Plane – 8 of Wands

By Water – 6 of Swords

International – World

Place to stay – 10 of Pentacles

Empress - Pregnancy

Queen of Pentacles - Pregnant Woman

Hierophant - Doctor

Combination of the Star and Hierophant - Hospital

Page of Cups – Baby

The Sun – A child

Other Card Layouts

Table Of Contents

Past, Present and Future

Shuffle and place the first card to the left. This will give you information about the past in dealing with your question. Card 2 is addressing the present and card 3, the future

If you question any section, add more cards.

Astrology Wheel or Wheel of the Year Spread

This is a very popular New Year Spread. The core (13) is the person asking the question or you can use it as a situation spread. Example: What will my business look like in the coming months? The 1-12 is months with number 1 being January.

Strength and Weakness

Shuffle and begin layout starting from the left.

1st card - What do I value in my life?

2nd card - In what ways am I insecure?

3rd card - What do I need to change in my life?

4th card - What new things can be brought into my life to make it better?

5th card - What relationships in my life help me grow?

Direction Spread

For Work and Career

Shuffle and lay out

1. North card - What will physically happen around me?

2. East card - What plans should I make?

3. South card - Do I have new creative or working projects?

4. West card - What type of attitude must I keep to be successful?

SUGGESTED READING LIST

The Key to the Universe

Author: F. Homer Curtiss     Published by: E. P. Dutton & Co.

A Practical Guide to Qabalistic Symbolism

Written by: Gareth Knight    Published by: Samuel Weiser, Inc.

He has simpler “intro” guides as well.

Any books by Paul Foster Case and B.O.T.A.

The Qabalistic Tarot

Author: Robert Wang         Published by: Samuel Weiser, Inc. /Red Wheel

Illustrations from the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck® reproduced by permission of U.S. Games Systems, Inc., Stamford, CT 06902 USA.  Copyright ©1971 by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.  Further reproduction prohibited.  The Rider-Waite Tarot Deck® is a registered trademark of U.S. Games Systems, Inc.

NOTE:   I have taken some of this written information from my own unpublished manuscript. Copyright 1999. C. S. Buck

Table Of Contents