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Written by CATfIERINE DAVIDSON
Illustrated by THIAGO CORREA
ABRAMS IMACE, i'4EW YORK
Copyright © 2022, Quarto Publishing plc, an imprint of The Quarto Group
Published in 2022 by Abrams Image, an imprint of ABRAMS. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.
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CONTENTS
Cats and Tarot: An Enduring Affinity
Getting to Know the Tarot Readings
The High Priestess The Empress
The Emperor The Hierophant The Lovers The Chariot Strength
The Hermit Wheel of Fortune Justice
The Hanged Man Death Temperance
The Devil The Tower The Star The Moon The Sun Judgment The World
The Suit of Wands The Suit of Pentacles The Suit of Swords The Suit of Cups
CATS AND TAROT: AN ENDURING AFFINITY
Cats are creatures of the night, and as such, they see and hear things that we cannot. Tarot calls on us to explore the self in a new way: to use the cards to find meaning and new perspectives that are at first hidden from us. These parallel qualities make cats and tarot perfect companions.
Cats have a particular affinity with the tarot. They are associated with sensitivity and curiosity, which are qualities that a reader draws on as they explore the deck, and which are enhanced by study and regular use of the cards. The cat is also a symbol of the feminine principle, linked to mystery, creativity, and patience, all of which become part of the magical interplay that goes into a reading of the tarot.
We can begin to better understand the spiritual connections humans have with cats by considering their historical associations. In ancient religions, cats have been linked to veneration of the moon, which is usually represented by feminine deities. In Ancient Egypt, they were honored as associates of Bast, goddess of the moon and fertility. The Greeks connected Bast to Artemis, the huntress, and all cats are natural-born hunters, especially by moonlight.
The Celts also revered cats as wise guardians of the dark Otherworld and keepers of secrecy. Perhaps because of that association with death and the unknown, black cats came to be seen as unlucky, which fed into the idea that felines—especially black ones—were the familiars of witches. The negative connotations of witchcraft stem from misunderstanding, and people forgot that the word “witch” simply means “she who knows” or “wise woman.”
Like tarot, cats themselves have been used for divination. The Ancient Egyptians studied cat behavior to predict the future, and similar practices from other, unconnected cultures, such as those of China and Japan, are not as fanciful as they might at first seem. There are many stories about cats behaving oddly on days before dramatic changes in weather or natural events such as earthquakes.
Nowadays, it might be argued that cats are simply more aware than humans of fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, or of micro-tremors in the ground. Yet, ancient peoples would have seen such powers as little short of magical—and in a sense they were right, since magic can be seen as being attuned to the knowledge that lies within.
This beautiful tarot deck has been created by Thiago Corrêa, and celebrates the spellbinding appeal of the cat in its many forms. The cards are reimaginings of the designs of the Rider-Waite deck, which is probably the best-known tarot in the world. In the traditional deck, a single feline appears, at the feet of the Queen of Wands. That queen is a nurturing, positive presence, but the cat is a hint that she is in touch with her shadow and unafraid to use her power should this be necessary.
Our relationship with cats as creature-companions, and the myriad ways they express themselves—beautifully realized in this deck—grant these cards a mystical harmony. We hope this cat-themed deck will help you to explore the magic of the tarot.
The TAROT
In uncertain times, we look for life direction. Tarot readings can offer a gateway to connecting with our inner wisdom. The manner in which tarot cards are understood and read, as explained in this chapter, can aid us in our quest for self-knowledge.
Anyone interested in the tarot will tell you that it is much more than a pack of cards. The French author and ceremonial magician Eliphas Levi wrote that “the tarot is truly a philosophical machine that keeps the mind from wandering while allowing for initiative and freedom.” The American writer Eden Gray believed that the value of the tarot was that it made people reflect on a situation before deciding on the best direction to take.
Tarot cards, with their mysterious names and alluring imagery, are a useful tool for self-knowledge. The tarot is like a mirror that reflects a person’s fears, hopes, and goals in a way that makes them easier to grapple with. You might say that the tarot puts our complex passions and motives under the lens of a microscope, and so allows us to examine what would be invisible to the normal thought processes of the conscious mind.
The tarot comprises two distinct sets of cards, known as the Major and Minor Arcana. When drawn in a reading, the cards of the Major Arcana take precedence, and point to universal themes, major events, life lessons, and key people contributing to the question asked of the reading.
There are twenty-two cards in the Major Arcana. They are ordered in a particular sequence and numbered from 0 (the Fool) to 21 (the World). This order makes it possible to read a story from the cards as if they were successive pages in a book. The narrative is open to interpretation, but it can be regarded as a journey, starting with the wide-eyed innocence of the Fool, then moving through a series of encounters and trials, stumbling against obstacles and meeting with helpers of various kinds along the way, until a place of completeness and self-actualization is reached with the final card, the World.
The Minor Arcana provides the supporting cast in the universal drama
established by the Major Arcana. It consists of fifty-six cards divided into four suits. Each suit has its own character and is concerned with a different aspect of life. Wands stand for our creative energy, the instinct to move, and our need for renewal and growth; Pentacles are concerned with the senses, our physical sensations, and our quest for security and material wealth; Swords focus on mental processes, the intellect, justice, and ethics; and Cups deal with our emotions, love, and relationships.
NUMBERS AND COURT CARDS
Each suit of the Minor Arcana has numbered cards and four court cards. The court cards can signify real individuals in the questioner’s life, or point to the qualities inherent in the card—aspects of the self that the questioner needs to seek within. All cards within the Minor Arcana highlight a mood, a need, a passion, or a principle, which you will soon come to recognize.
ACE
The root of the matter; potential in its purest form
TWO
Balance or exchange, a choice between paths, or a meeting between two people
THREE
Group unity or a third party; development
FOUR
Stabilization and consolidation or solidity
FIVE
Change, extension, disruption, and difficulty
SIX
Farewells; moving onward and upward
SEVEN
Higher purpose, change, opposition, and conflict
EIGHT
Defeat, boundaries, and recognition of limitations
NINE
Achievement and satisfaction of desire
TEN
Culmination, the full manifestation of the idea sparked in the ace
PAGE
A young person; childlike qualities such as curiosity and joy
KNIGHT
A dynamic person who makes things happen; risks and passion
QUEEN
A powerful and nurturing force; emotional maturity or love
KING
An authoritative, courageous, successful person; taking charge
While you are learning about the cards and their meanings, it is a good idea to set aside a time each day to spend with them, perhaps fifteen minutes at a time that suits you. Try these techniques to help you learn more about each of the cards and the cards in combination.
Depending on your shuffling method (see this page), cards can turn upside down when the deck is put back together, and therefore appear reversed when you turn them over for reading. These cards call for extra attention during reading, and reversal meanings are given in this book. When cards appear reversed, they should not be turned back the right way.
To start gaining an understanding of how tarot cards might be read in a spread (starting with this page) and practice reading the cards in combination with one another, consider the meanings of a group of cards that share the same number, in this case the number 7.
The tarot cannot say what will happen, only what possibilities are forming at the present time, so avoid giving specific or definite advice, or making firm predictions about the future. Remember that it is always possible for a person to change an outcome to which the cards point, and it can be useful to remind the questioner of this if they are alarmed by or disappointed in the cards they have chosen.
It’s not advisable to read cards for children, or for anyone who is highly distressed, and, for obvious reasons, it is particularly important to take care around cards that may suggest illness or death.
The key to a successful reading is to create an atmosphere of calm in which you can focus on the question being asked and on the story of the cards before you. You need to be in a calm and open-minded space, so that you can remain in touch with your intuition and able to receive the messages the cards give you.
With this in mind, turn off all electronic devices, such as phones. You may want to dim the lights, light a candle, or take a short time to meditate or simply sit in
silence.
Start by establishing why the questioner—yourself or someone else—wants a reading: What is the question they want to explore? It is much easier to interpret the cards if you know the key issue you are focusing on. However, if there is no question, or the questioner doesn’t want to tell you why they want a reading, you can still read the tarot effectively.
Shuffle the cards—or ask the questioner to shuffle them—while concentrating on the focus of the reading and what you are asking the cards. Shuffle for as long as feels right using either of the methods suggested here—you will instinctively know when the cards are shuffled enough. If you realize you are not concentrating, pause and take a few calm breaths (perhaps with your eyes closed) before shuffling with full attention.
After shuffling, place the deck on the table, fan out the cards, and pick—or ask the questioner to pick—the number of cards required for the spread you have chosen (see this page for more on spreads).
Sometimes during shuffling a card will “jump” out of the deck: this can happen for inexperienced and experienced readers alike. You can either put the card straight back into the deck, or look at it before returning to shuffling and give it special consideration if it appears again in the spread.
We all like to read our own cards, but you will no doubt find that reading for yourself is not as accurate as when someone else reads for you, simply because you don’t have perspective when looking at your own life. Tarot can give you a new slant on a situation or reveal the hidden motivations behind your actions, but when you are divining for yourself, it is all too easy to miss the message that is there, even when you are an experienced reader. However, there are methods you can use to make reading for yourself more accurate.
Don’t. Instead, make a note of the cards and the date. Avoid revisiting the same question for a few weeks, but do look at the cards, since the message may be easier to interpret with a little distance.
immediately get your cards out. But don’t. It is difficult to think straight when you are in an emotional state, so you are unlikely to interpret the tarot correctly. Give yourself time to calm down before you get your cards out.
—and only do that when it feels truly essential.
When reading the tarot for another person, use your knowledge of the cards along with your own intuition to give you the insights you need. Don’t worry if your mind goes blank or you do not understand the symbolism of a card. Tell the questioner what you do know and perhaps they will be able to shed some light on the outcome. Here are some things to think about as you read the cards for another person:
message—a lesson in acceptance, for example. Give your questioner something useful to go away with.
It’s worth practicing a few spreads to give you a feel for which method suits you, and as a way of learning the cards and seeing how their meanings can shift in subtle ways. Most tarot readers have their favorites, and the more you use a spread, the more comfortable you will become with it.
The simplest method, and one that is quick and to the point, is to draw one card. This can be a guiding card for the day or give you a “yes/no” answer to a straightforward question—such as “Should I ask for a pay raise?” or “Should I go to this event?”
Pay attention to what comes up emotionally or intuitively for you before checking the meaning of the card. You can pull out extra cards for illumination if the answer seems unclear (but see this page for why you shouldn’t draw too many).
This is a great spread to use when faced with a straightforward question. Cut the deck into three piles. Working from left to right, take the top card from each pile and lay them in a line. The card positions can vary in meaning, depending on
what you want to use the spread for. Always be clear what method you are using before you start shuffling, and stick to your choice.
CARD 1 PAST
CARD 2 PRESENT
CARD 3 FUTURE
The central card sums up the current situation, the card on its left gives an insight into how the present circumstances have come about, and the one on the right indicates the most likely outcome.
CARD 1 PRESENT
CARD 2 HINDRANCES
CARD 3 HELP
In this version, the first card symbolizes the current situation, the second card indicates the obstacles or difficulties that the questioner faces, and the third card is the help that is available or advises on how to improve the outcome. If you have a very positive card in the hindrances position, this could indicate that there are no obstacles (or, perhaps, that the positive is distracting the questioner from his or her purpose). A negative card in the help position may signify a lesson to be learned.
CARD 1 YOU
CARD 2 YOUR PARTNER CARD 3 YOUR RELATIONSHIP
This useful method allows you to look at both parties in a relationship, and the dynamic or synergy between them. The first card represents the questioner, the second signifies their partner, and the third indicates how they come together in the relationship. This reading can provide a quick answer to the question “Is this the one?” or give useful insights into improving an established partnership.
This five-card spread comprises a foundational card, like the pad of a cat’s paw, along with four equally spaced cards placed above. These four cards represent the digits of a cat’s paw, which cats use to adjust their balance and navigate their way through all kinds of terrain.
The Cat’s Paw is easy to learn, and the additional cards allow for greater detail and thus a more nuanced perspective than three-card spreads typically provide. Use this spread when the questioner is looking for advice on whether they are focusing their energies in a useful direction.
CARD 1 WHERE YOU ARE NOW
This card represents a broad view of the current situation and helps to build a picture of the main issue facing the questioner.
CARD 2 WHERE YOU ARE HEADED
The first of the digit cards indicates the general direction of travel, and so helps to answer the basic inquiry, “Am I on the right path, or should there be some change of tack?”
CARD 3 EXTERNAL FORCES
This card speaks to the effect of significant others (colleagues or bosses, loved ones, acquaintances) or external factors (such as money, or political or social influences).
CARD 4 INNER FORCES
The next card considers aspects of the questioner themselves that are significant, whether positive or negative. Sometimes the biggest obstacle to moving forward is the questioner’s own attitude.
CARD 5 ADVICE OR OUTCOME
Depending on the question asked, this card can represent the likely outcome or the advice that the questioner most needs to hear.
10
9
8
7
This popular spread comprises two parts. On the left is a cross consisting of six cards, and on the right, four cards form a staff. The two cards in the center of the cross form their own small cross.
CARD 1 THE HEART OF THE MATTER
The central card signifies the current situation; the reason behind the reading.
CARD 2 WHAT CROSSES YOU
This card is placed horizontally across the first card. It signifies whatever is helping or hindering the current situation. A positive card may be drawn in this position, but this will still contain some sort of challenge to the situation.
CARD 3 THE ROOT CAUSE
This card reflects the underlying events that have led to the situation. These may be the subconscious forces that have driven the questioner to act in a certain way.
CARD 4 PAST INFLUENCES
This card symbolizes the most recent events or attitudes that have had a bearing on the current situation.
CARD 5 THE GOAL OR OUTCOME
Placed above the first card, so it crowns the current situation, this card explains what the questioner is aiming for or heading toward. It represents the most likely outcome if they continue in the direction indicated by the other cards.
CARD 6 IMMEDIATE FUTURE
This card, positioned to the right of the first card, illustrates the influences that are about to manifest themselves.
CARD 7 THE QUESTIONER
This card represents what the questioner is bringing to the current situation—strengths and weaknesses, talents and skills, or what they need to develop.
CARD 8 EXTERNAL INFLUENCES
Here the external influences on the questioner are revealed, showing whether they are a help, a hindrance, or neutral in their effect.
CARD 9 HOPES AND FEARS
This card reveals the questioner’s subconscious feelings about the situation. An unfavorable card here may show that they are sabotaging the situation.
CARD 10 FINAL RESULT
This is the most likely outcome, taking all the other cards into account. However, it is important to remember that it may be possible to change the outcome if the questioner changes their behavior.
MAJOR ARCANA
In this chapter we dive into the universal themes of the Major Arcana. Take note of what stands out for you as you read the interpretation of each card. How does the card make you feel? What comes to mind as you look at the card? Try to connect intuitively with each card before going over the meanings.
A LEAP INTO THE UNKNOWN
When the Fool appears in a tarot reading, it can signify a naive person who nonetheless has wisdom to impart, embodying both simplicity and special insight. It also points to the inner child, the dimension of yourself that rushes headlong into new experiences, undaunted by fear or negativity.
The Fool can represent the beginning of a stimulating venture or a new spiritual journey. The card tells you to listen to your heart and follow your dreams.
However, it is not an entirely positive card. When traveling into unknown
territory, you cannot be sure what you will discover. There is a risk that you will be making a mistake and come to regret your actions—but risk is what makes us live rather than merely exist.
REVERSED MEANING: Optimism is one thing, recklessness is another. The reversed Fool indicates an irresponsible attitude and a lack of care that will be destructive. Think again.
BENDING CIRCUMSTANCES TO YOUR WILL
The appearance of the Magician signals self-confidence and mastery—the power to make things happen. This card reminds us that we are masters of our own lives and have the capacity to get what we want. When the Magician appears in a tarot reading, be ready to channel confidence, so you can accomplish greatness.
The Magician is one of the most powerful figures in the tarot. Perhaps an empowering figure has appeared in your life and will help change things for the better. Or there is an important development to come in career, spiritual life, or health matters. This is the time to get out into the world and find what you want,
whether that is a new partner or a career change.
REVERSED MEANING: Power can be misdirected; consider your motivations before trying to create change or manipulate events. The end does not always justify the means. Be wary of a charming or magnetic person who is untrustworthy.
INSPIRATION, INTUITION, AND SECRETS
The High Priestess is a dignified figure of learning and wisdom. This is someone who is highly intuitive and able to divine hidden truths, epitomizing the subtle power of the feminine.
When this card appears in a spread, it may represent a psychic revelation that comes through a dream, some sense of a higher power in your life, or intense work on your spiritual self. It may be that a new understanding illuminates your life purpose—or soon will do.
This card possesses a quiet energy, suggesting a period of retreat from the
world is needed in order to find your inner voice. The High Priestess is a passive, responsive force rather than a dynamic one; the message of this card is that it is sometimes better to sit, watch, learn, and wait for the inner voice to speak before responding to events, rather than trying to direct them.
REVERSED MEANING: Refusing to listen to your intuition. Too much independence and prolonged isolation can lead to selfishness and make it difficult to relate to others.
ABUNDANCE IN THE PHYSICAL REALM GENEROSITY • NURTURING • PROSPERITY • SECURITY • COMFORT
The Empress is devoted to earthly matters and sensual pleasures. This card epitomizes abundance, fertility, and caring for others.
The Empress is here to remind you that you are a physical being with material needs. This card’s appearance suggests that you are showered with material blessings and feel comfortable and satisfied—the Empress is the practical, nurturing Earth Mother who gives life and provides sustenance.
Business ventures may generate wealth and past effort is rewarded: we reap what we have sowed. Your creative potential may be nurtured, and if health is poor,
then the Empress bestows renewed vigor—whatever is needed will be provided.
As the mother figure, the Empress looks fondly on family life.
REVERSED MEANING: Mothers can be overly focused on the needs of others; someone may be behaving in a suffocating way toward a partner or family member, or you may be neglecting your own needs. There may be issues of fertility, or creative outlets may be lacking.
HEAD BEFORE HEART
The Emperor signifies a leader, provider, or disciplinarian. When the Emperor makes an appearance, it may be that a masculine presence has entered your life, perhaps as a mentor or father figure, or perhaps as a potential partner. Or, it may be that you need to access this dimension of yourself and apply a methodical approach to the matter at hand; whether you want a new job or need to deal with difficulties in a relationship, then this card advises that a structured plan, realized step by step, will yield better results than an emotional and scattered response.
Even spiritual progress needs to encompass self-discipline and regular practice,
as embodied by the Emperor.
REVERSED MEANING: A reversed card may suggest an oppressive or dominating individual, an over-emphasis on power, or a narrowness in your thinking; you may need to open your mind to the ideas of others.
PHILOSOPHER AND SPIRITUAL GUIDE
The Hierophant is a philosopher and spiritual leader. This card’s appearance indicates that the questioner is searching for answers to the meaning of life.
Unlike the High Priestess card, which suggests looking for the answers within, the Hierophant represents a path followed by others before you, such as an established religion or other system of belief, particularly one that involves group work. This card may represent a trusted spiritual teacher, priest, or therapist who is guiding you down a particular path of discovery. Remember to question what you are told rather than blindly following in another’s footsteps;
avoid conforming for the sake of pleasing others. This card may also indicate that you are focusing on the needs of the group rather than the individual.
REVERSED MEANING: Someone who is revered or obeyed may be a hypocrite, peddling false truths or pretending to know more than they do. Perhaps you are disregarding the truth out of respect for a leader?
ROMANCE AND LIFE CHOICES
The Lovers card does not necessarily relate to romance. Sometimes it points to a decision that must be made between two possibilities—perhaps two goals that speak to different parts of yourself: the spiritual and the worldly, or your emotional and intellectual sides.
This card may be a sign that you have found your soul mate, and that a relationship will be lasting. But committed relationships necessitate the giving up of possibilities; in making your choice, you have to turn your back on other options. The Lovers card indicates that the choice before you is an important
one, but reassures that happiness awaits, provided you choose with wisdom and intuition. It can also indicate success in a situation where two people (or two groups) come together, whether in business, friendship, or romantic partnership.
REVERSED MEANING: Indecision or vacillation may cause opportunities to slip away. There may be conflict within a relationship, or perhaps another person has entered the equation. Divorce or separation may be on the cards.
A HARD-WON VICTORY
The Chariot celebrates the part of you that is strong and determined to get your own way. It stands for self-confidence and determination, willpower, and self-belief. When this card appears, it indicates that you have beaten the opposition and emerged in triumph.
Your victory may be small or large—perhaps you have landed a promotion hotly contested with colleagues, or you have finally managed to give up smoking after many failed attempts. Whatever the battle, there is a sense of prevailing, of getting your way, and this card invites you to enjoy the sense of satisfaction and
pride that comes as a result.
In a future position, the Chariot suggests that success will come—you have (or will have) the right attitude.
REVERSED MEANING: The Chariot represents strength of character, but in reverse it suggests you have become arrogant and heedless of the feelings of others; gloating and vengeful aggression are not the actions of a true victor.
THE COURAGE TO OVERCOME OBSTACLES
We all face difficulties in our lives, and the hardest struggle is usually with the self. The Strength card is both a call to summon up the courage needed to channel rage, fear, and doubt, and a reassurance that you have the character to triumph.
This is a most fortuitous card, one of the happiest in the Major Arcana. It often appears at a pivotal point in your life, a time when the decisions made can have far-reaching and positive consequences.
This card indicates that you have developed wisdom and self-understanding
and are no longer at the mercy of the ego, with its unrestrained and selfish urges. You have the self-control necessary to use your power intelligently and honorably, and can now realize your creative energy and potential.
REVERSED MEANING: A loss of control; perhaps your negative urges are gaining the upper hand—this card in reverse may signify an addiction or harmful personality trait. There is a loss of willpower and a lack of belief that you can prevail. Help may be needed from external sources in order to win this battle.
TAKING TIME TO REFLECT
All spiritual journeys require a period of retreat from the pressures and temptations of the material world in order to focus the mind on the journey within. The Hermit embodies this sense of withdrawal and self-sufficiency.
The Hermit is an archetype of myths and stories from all civilizations—Old Father Time being one such character. When the Hermit appears in a spread, it brings the clear message to slow down and simplify; quiet reflection is needed. Meditation or prayer may prove a valuable tool in determining your direction,
but reducing social and work engagements to take time for yourself could be what is indicated. This is not the time to follow in another’s footsteps; rather, you should quietly forge a new path, slowly and mindfully, building your self-awareness with every step.
REVERSED MEANING: Retreating from the world can be a defense or avoidance strategy, or a way of ducking out of responsibilities. In cutting yourself off from others and their opinions, you may be building an edifice of illusion. Do not be closed-minded.
CHANGES AND TURNABOUTS
Good times and bad times are part of life. If we allow our emotions to be driven purely by external factors, then we will constantly be buffeted by the many winds the universe throws at us. The Wheel of Fortune card reminds us that things can change at any moment, and we need to maintain a sense of equilibrium whatever life brings.
This card deals with those aspects of life that are outside of your control. It usually signifies a lucky break or a chance meeting that has positive results. But
nobody can predict or control which way the wheel will turn; it could be that carefully laid plans or a sure-fire bet will be upset by a random event. Either way, the shift in your circumstances has the potential to lead to new growth. Accept the new situation with good grace and look for what you can learn from it.
REVERSED MEANING: Unexpected setbacks or obstacles occur; this is not a good time to embark on a new venture. You are not in control of events and so cannot spin them to your advantage. Instead, you must draw on the strength within and face the situation with as much stoicism as you can muster.
A FAIR OUTCOME OR INTEGRITY
The scale of justice on this card must be balanced between two opposing sides, while the double-edged sword suggests that a result can go one of two ways, or that there may be both negative and positive results. This card is all about fairness. It suggests that the correct decision has been reached or that the situation is the result of your past actions. It may signify a legal judgment, but it is just as likely to appear when you are considering what to do; it urges you to weigh up the options carefully and apply rational logic and fairness to the decision-making process.
Justice can also be the tarot’s equivalent of karma—bad actions in the past may now rebound or a kind gesture may be reciprocated. Justice urges you to accept responsibility and acknowledge past errors.
REVERSED MEANING: An upside-down justice card shows that circumstances are unfair. But railing against them will not help; sometimes things do not go your way, even if they should. A calm and stoical response is called for. Avoid judging others since the full facts are not known.
A SACRIFICE MADE WILLINGLY
It is rarely possible to have everything that you want without effort. Most hero myths involve the protagonist going through a period of hardship and sacrifice, which is endured in the knowledge that the prize is worth the period of suffering.
When the Hanged Man card makes an appearance, it shows that a present difficulty has its purpose and its reasons. Sometimes the sacrifice being made is a material one—giving up a career in the city in order to pursue a dream to live in the country or volunteer overseas, for example—but it may be that you are giving up a long-held attitude or belief in order to make room for new ideas.
Letting go is painful, and life will not be the same again, but ultimately there are greater rewards to be had.
REVERSED MEANING: Is the sacrifice being made necessary or is it prompted by an excessive sense of duty? When this card is reversed, it often suggests empty martyrdom. Consider what is preventing you from pursuing your own needs and desires.
THE ENDING OF AN ERA
Although often feared, this card is rarely about physical death. Its meaning is metaphorical and is concerned with endings. While an ending may bring a sense of loss and grief, it also opens up the way for a new beginning. Therefore, Death in the tarot can be seen as a dynamic force and an opportunity for change.
Death follows the Hanged Man in the tarot deck, and can carry with it the suggestion that what has now been lost may have actually been given up willingly. How much pain the ending engenders could be determined by your
ability to recognize the need for it; struggling against the inevitable is never wise.
This card encourages us to accept what cannot be changed and relinquish the past (because the past can certainly not be changed). Life cannot remain static—and all things must come to an end.
REVERSED MEANING: A fear of letting go and a refusal to move on. The reversed card can sometimes indicate that you are afraid of physical death, but as with the upright card, it is more often concerned with change and your attitude to it.
BALANCING OPPOSING ENERGIES
Temperance comes between Death and the Devil in the tarot deck, and this card’s harmonizing energy provides respite and calm from these strong and potentially life-changing forces.
The imagery on this card of liquid pouring in an endless stream between two vessels signifies the unhindered flow of life energy, which is neither one extreme nor the other, but exists in a constant state of flux and equilibrium. This card advises you to be patient, to look for the middle ground, and to work with others for the benefit of all. It can show a mature attitude in which excesses are curbed
and extremes of emotion are tempered.
When appearing with Justice it can mean a welcome judgment, while with the Lovers it can indicate good communication and the resolution of conflict to the satisfaction of both parties.
REVERSED MEANING: This may signify that you are paralyzed by indecision, or that differing opinions may lead to discord or a breakup. Emotions are uncontrolled and there is little willingness for cooperation within a partnership or group. Take time to look within, reevaluate the situation, and regain perspective.
UNBRIDLED EGOTISM
Base instincts of selfishness, unrestrained lust, and greed are represented by the Devil card. But this ferocious energy can also be a creative force if we are strong enough to harness it.
The tarot understands that there is a devil in every one of us; we cannot childishly blame an external force for our negative impulses. Instead, we must acknowledge and control them. The appearance of the Devil in a spread is a warning not to be led astray by an overemphasis on physical pleasures and gratification, or to pursue your own desires in a way that is harmful to yourself
or others. It can suggest an unpleasant situation involving power games, excess, debt, or addiction. Perhaps you have made the wrong choices or are in the dark about another’s motives; take steps to end this unhealthy setup.
REVERSED MEANING: You have begun to recognize that negative habits or selfish choices have led to unhappiness.
DRAMATIC UPHEAVAL THAT HERALDS A REBIRTH CHAOS • DISRUPTION • CHANGE • DESTRUCTION • LIBERATION
The Tower is the only building in the tarot, and it signifies the edifices that we construct in order to make ourselves feel safe and secure. These may take a concrete form, such as our homes; they may be abstract, such as the professional and social personas that we present to the world; or they may be emotional, as in the relationships that provide a refuge from the outside world.
The card shows a tower that has been struck by lightning, and this signifies a catastrophe which brings things crashing to the ground—perhaps the end of a partnership, a redundancy, or a loss of faith in yourself.
Although the Tower is a destructive card, it carries with it opportunity, since once the old is destroyed, there is room for the new, if you are willing to start again. A better way of living is possible.
REVERSED MEANING: This signifies that the unpleasant events that are occurring are a consequence of your own actions, or that you are in denial and are trying to delay the inevitable. It is time to face reality.
A PROMISE OF HAPPIER TIMES
The Star is a spiritual card that beckons us toward a brighter future. It symbolizes faith, whether in ourselves, a higher power, or in the worth of a new idea or ambition. The Star represents the innocent part of ourselves that cherishes hope even when all seems lost.
This card often appears during periods of difficulty, showing that the worst is over and encouraging you to believe that life will be better. It counsels that you should be open to the gifts of help that are now available, either from those around you or from the universe at large.
This card can indicate you are about to take a path that will bring spiritual or creative fulfillment. But it is important to remember that the Star does not take account of the down-to-earth side of life; your task may be to marry this beautiful idealism with practicalities.
REVERSED MEANING: A reversed Star can signify self-interest or a loss of idealism; perhaps the shine has rubbed off an idea or a relationship, and you can see problems that you were previously blind to.
IMAGINATION AND FLUCTUATING EMOTIONS INTUITION • CREATIVITY • MISUNDERSTANDINGS • DISCOMFORT •
In the tarot, the Moon is linked to the subconscious and draws on the long-held belief that human behavior is affected by the waxing and waning of the moon in its continuous cycle.
When the Moon appears in a spread, it often signifies a time of confusion, since we cannot fathom the depths of the subconscious or fully understand the direction in which it steers us. It may appear when your dreams are particularly vivid, or when you feel drawn to artistic pursuits, meditation, divination, or
perhaps to psychotherapy, all of which can offer a path to greater understanding.
You may be feeling unsettled or emotional, or unsure of your feelings. Often the best option is to embrace the uncertainty, explore the inner psyche as best you know how, and put off decisive action until the next stage of the cycle.
REVERSED MEANING: A situation that seems clear may be an illusion, or there may be hidden motives at work. The lack of clarity may be causing difficulties, so think carefully before speaking and avoid getting drawn into pointless discussions. Listen to your inner voice—someone is being deceptive.
SHINING WITH RADIANT ENERGY
The sun is celebrated in myths and stories from around the world and from every era, an acknowledgment of its vital role in sustaining life. When the Sun card comes up in a tarot spread, you know that you have the vitality and enthusiasm necessary to handle whatever lies ahead, and the chances are that adventure and merriment are in store for you.
The Sun suggests that it is your turn to shine, and events are in your favor. There may be a promotion or some other piece of good fortune in the offing, or perhaps others are drawn to the brightness and energy that you are now exuding;
this is a wonderful time for socializing and fun.
Don’t waste this opportunity. When we are at the center of the universe, our desires become achievable and we need to seize the day.
REVERSED MEANING: When the sun shines too brightly, others can be blinded. Take care not to be arrogant or superior. Alternatively, perhaps your light is fading; opportunities can slip away just as the sun’s light pales as it drops below the horizon.
MAKING FINAL CHOICES
Life is filled with possibilities, but some decisions are final and abiding. Judgment deals with such choices. They may concern major life events or minor matters, but once a stand has been made there is no turning back.
It can be helpful to look to the surrounding cards to see in what area judgment is needed. If this card is paired with the Lovers, it may be that a relationship will be formalized by marriage or in some other way, whereas an appearance with the Hierophant suggests a commitment to your faith or beliefs.
Whatever the situation, you are ready to take stock of your abilities and face
your shortcomings, making any amends that are necessary. The appearance of this card assures that your judgment is clear, balancing perfectly the intuitive self and the logical thinking mind.
REVERSED MEANING: A fear of making decisions or perhaps an over-reliance on the opinions of others may result in an opportunity being missed.
COMPLETION OR WHOLENESS
The final card in the Major Arcana signifies culmination: the happy conclusion of a journey or the achievement of a goal that has long been worked for. The globe of the Earth encompasses a sense of coming full circle—and with this the reminder, so often present in the tarot, that as one journey ends another begins.
When this card appears, it signifies a time in your life when you have reached the desired destination and can pause to appreciate it. Perhaps it is time to give something back to those who have helped you and also to those who
follow on behind. You may have a new sense of community, of belonging, and this may be expressed through kindnesses to others or some sort of charity work.
This card can also appear when a long journey overseas is about to commence.
REVERSED MEANING: You feel at a standstill, trapped by a fear of new horizons, or, having achieved a goal, you are stagnating or unsure of the next step you should take.
MINOR ARCANA
The fifty-six cards of the Minor Arcana give an in-depth look into how the tarot can help guide, empower, and motivate you on a daily basis, since these cards focus on the more practical and mundane parts of our lives, such as goal-setting, strategizing, and following our intuition. As you journey through this second half of the deck, pay attention to the key themes of the suits as well as to which cards stand out for you the most.
The SUIT of WANDS
Wands in the tarot signify growth. They are associated with the element of Fire, and the cards are linked to the inner drive to progress and express yourself, whether through work, spirituality, creative endeavor, or by broadening your horizons with travel or study.
ACE of WANDS
The ideas card. When the ace of Wands appears, it tells of a surge of creative energy that may change your fortunes. Pay attention to new insights, sudden inspiration, or simply a sense of restlessness—this indicates that you are on the brink of a new adventure.
A legacy or unexpected bonus may help move things on.
REVERSED MEANING: A lack of motivation or feelings of being boxed in mean that creative ideas are stifled. Or there is simply too much to do. Taking a break may be a good move.
TWO of WANDS
Sustained effort is needed to bring a new idea to fruition. Believe in your potential and take bold steps to realize it. The world is at your feet.
A decision is indicated by this card: either continuing with what is known or taking an entirely new direction.
A new and fruitful partnership is on the horizon.
REVERSED MEANING: Be careful. Plans have not been thought through and there may be miscommunication. An idea may end in anticlimax or disappointment.
THREE of WANDS
The appearance of this card means that your plans have progressed or a short-term goal has been reached. But consider the long term, too, and embrace the changes that are needed.
Travel, study, and new ventures are well-starred, and assistance or a partnership may speed you on your way.
REVERSED MEANING: Energies are scattered or being wasted, so garner strength and take a different path. Be cautious of those offering help; they may prove a hindrance.
FOUR of WANDS
A joyous card that reflects a sense of completion—perhaps you have finished a work project, a piece of art, or a home renovation.
There is harmony and happiness, and possibly a new romance or home. Rifts may be healed and past errors left behind, as you move into a happier phase.
REVERSED MEANING: More effort is necessary if the desired outcome is to be achieved. There may be conflict at home, and instability at work or in a relationship.
FIVE of WANDS
Conflict is the order of the day, especially in the world of work. This doesn’t have to be a bad thing: competition can spur you on to greater things, and challenge may force a useful rethink, a mental straightening-out. But this card counsels caution—is it possible that everyone is merely playing pointless mind games?
REVERSED MEANING: Tensions may be ended, but now you have to deal with their consequences. Weaker associates may manipulate in order to gain an advantage.
SIX of WANDS
This card signifies victory after a period of hard work or difficulty. You can expect more than personal satisfaction; public recognition of your achievements is on the way—a promotion, media attention, a prize, perhaps a new contract.
Enjoy the moment—or take a vacation—for work will be needed to maintain your position.
REVERSED MEANING: Remember that “pride comes before a fall.” Do not gloat or revel in your success. The envy of others may sow the seeds of problems later on.
SEVEN of WANDS
Whenever success is achieved, challenge soon follows. This is a card of status, indicating that you have reached a position of standing and respect. But opposition will always be mounted against those who have the higher ground; be steadfast and consolidate achievements before trying to move on. Self-belief is crucial if you are trying to defend your hard-earned eminence.
REVERSED MEANING: Be prepared to contend with negativity or outright antagonism. Stand firm.
EIGHT of WANDS
Your creative energy is at a peak, and everything moves swiftly. Projects reach a speedy conclusion; impediments are swept away. New, exciting opportunities present themselves and travel is also likely. Be sure to channel the energy in a focused way, rather than letting it flow in too many directions or allowing it to be wasted on unimportant matters.
REVERSED MEANING: Rushing heedlessly ahead can cause problems. Delays and disruptions occur. Exercise patience.
NINE of WANDS
A cherished goal that you have been working toward is now in sight, but there is one final obstacle to overcome. This card counsels that you must draw on inner reserves and store up energy for a last push. The right choices have been made. Now you must be persistent and trust yourself to prevail.
REVERSED MEANING: There is opposition, and it may be that the approach is wrong or goals are unrealistic. The solution may lie in making compromises.
TEN of WANDS
The ten of Wands appears when you are exhausted but feel unable to rest because the culmination of a goal is near. Or, perhaps a project or scheme has been highly successful but has left you with additional responsibilities that are proving a heavy burden. You need to prioritize and delegate.
REVERSED MEANING: Major compromises are needed, and not all aims will be achieved. Others are placing an unfair burden on you or blaming you for their own issues.
PAGE of WANDS
The Page of Wands indicates a young person who has ability, but no focused goal as of yet. This card may call you to recognize the first flickerings of a creative flame—or a sense of restlessness or even dissatisfaction—that could send you in a new direction if nurtured.
This card can indicate welcome news, perhaps a birth, an interesting idea, or an intriguing project.
REVERSED MEANING: Fear or lack of ambition holds you back. Unexpressed creative energy can lead to trouble.
KNIGHT of WANDS
An impulsive and energetic person who is determined to succeed may appear, and will enthuse others.
The appearance of this card may reflect a need for excitement. It can signify a house move, travel abroad, or a new venture, all outlets for the exuberant spirit that can shake up your world.
REVERSED MEANING: Do not be swept up in another’s drama or thoughtless schemes; think through the consequences of your actions. Obstacles or delays may be frustrating.
QUEEN of WANDS
The Queen represents a warmhearted, nurturing, confident person who may be influential at this time. This card embodies the qualities of loyalty and intuition. It may be that you are in need of advice or help, or that you have to develop this dimension of your own personality.
This card can also imply successful creative or business ventures.
REVERSED MEANING: A mature person who can be controlling and vain. You may have suffered a loss of confidence or be overly dependent on others. Have faith.
KING of WANDS
This is a card of leadership. It may reflect the appearance of a strong and charismatic person in your life who can spearhead change. Or, it may be an indication that you need to embrace this part of your own self and rise to a challenge that is presenting itself, or drive an idea through to fruition.
REVERSED MEANING: An arrogant leader may endanger the success of a project or venture; be prepared. Consider whether you are disregarding others in the quest to achieve.
The SUIT of PENTACLES
Pentacles are golden coins featuring the five-pointed star of Hermes, the god of money. Associated with the element of Earth, these cards deal with the ways we interact with the physical world—our sensual appetites, the need to nurture, provide, and build, and our desire for material riches.
ACE of PENTACLES
The aces in all suits indicate a beginning. In the suit of Pentacles—concerned with security and worldly matters—this card indicates prosperity. You have the necessary means to achieve a goal, perhaps thanks to a gift or legacy.
This card’s appearance may also mean that a new undertaking could pay dividends.
REVERSED MEANING: Money may not bring happiness or wealth is being squandered. Illness could be indicated, or perhaps you are overly focused on material wealth.
TWO of PENTACLES
This card calls for flexibility, since you have conflicting needs that must be resolved. It counsels that you keep your options open, because the right path is not yet clear. This is a good time to put affairs in order so that new opportunities can be grasped on the fly.
A financial risk may prove worthwhile.
REVERSED MEANING: The balancing act is proving hard to maintain, or a past event casts a shadow over the present. Be wary of overspending or taking on too much.
THREE of PENTACLES
Some success has been achieved. This is enjoyable, but ultimately is not enough to fulfill you. You need to keep on working.
Teamwork is indicated, and help may be coming from a mentor or associate.
This card denotes skill in a trade or artistic ability that brings financial rewards and honor.
REVERSED MEANING: You feel undervalued—and this may be reflected in the financial rewards you receive. But work is not being done to a high enough standard or being given the attention and skill that is required.
FOUR of PENTACLES
Past efforts have led to a degree of financial security and status, which gives you a sense of pride and happiness, and a strong foundation to build on. However, you should guard against the tendency to cling too tightly to what you have, since possessiveness will impede progress.
REVERSED MEANING: An attitude of miserliness is blocking your ability to move forward in a relationship, a project, or in life generally.
FIVE of PENTACLES
This card indicates a time of financial hardship, which can lead to self-doubt. You may isolate yourself through shame or be shunned by judgmental others.
Emotions that rule the intellect bring sorrow or disappointment and spiritual loneliness.
REVERSED MEANING: You may need to accept aid from another, even it if hurts your pride. The end is in sight after a period of difficulty and debt. Rifts may be healed.
SIX of PENTACLES
Faith is restored after a period of difficulty. Cooperation and teamwork benefit all in business matters and personal relationships. You achieve success in worldly matters but—mindful of how it feels to be at the other end of the scale—should maintain generosity toward others.
REVERSED MEANING: There is an imbalance: you are giving too much or too little, or gifts have strings attached. Financial inequality causes ill will.
SEVEN of PENTACLES
Hard work is rewarded. This is a good card for those in the creative world, as their talent starts to pay dividends. But sometimes our goals do not reflect our inner passions, so the seven advises that you commit to your dreams.
This card is also symbolic of a new love and money in the form of a loan.
REVERSED MEANING: Anxiety that your hard work will amount to nothing. Sometimes all you can do is toil diligently in the hope of a bountiful harvest.
EIGHT of PENTACLES
Often signifying a period of intense labor, this card shows that you have achieved some success, but that greater dedication is now needed in order to master your craft. Personal sacrifices may be necessary. All forms of learning or apprenticeship are favorable.
REVERSED MEANING: A lack of effort or skill that is needed to reach your goal. You may be depending too much on others and not pulling your own weight.
NINE of PENTACLES
On a material level, this card indicates that everything in the garden is rosy: you are living in abundance, goals are realistic, business is favorable, and health is good. But remember, “Money does not buy happiness,” and know that making wealth your sole aim can lead to spiritual or emotional poverty.
REVERSED MEANING: Plans have not come to fruition. You may be sacrificing too much in pursuit of money. Health may be jeopardized by an unbalanced lifestyle.
TEN of PENTACLES
This is a card of plenty; everything that is needed is available. Tens are concerned with completion: you are comfortably established at work and reaping material benefits. You may start to use wealth and achievements to benefit others, or be eyeing the next step up. Family (and family money) is key.
REVERSED MEANING: Conserve what has been attained; this is not the time to take foolish risks. Look to your home and family to ensure that they are protected.
PAGE of PENTACLES
An enthusiastic, idealistic person—perhaps a student or a hobbyist—has youthful energy to expend, but does not have a thought-out plan. When this card appears, it can mark an opportunity to do something different, but remember to take the practicalities into account too.
REVERSED MEANING: This card may symbolize a dreamer who is ignoring life’s realities, or indicate a surfeit of interests and a scattered approach; focus your energies.
KNIGHT of PENTACLES
A reliable young person who works hard and follows a plan with precision, taking no shortcuts. They are caring and compassionate, particularly toward animals. They may be important in your life, or could indicate that a project needs to be seen through to completion, however unexciting it may be.
REVERSED MEANING: Well-worn methods have their place, but a more imaginative approach may be required. A stubborn or passive-aggressive person could impede your efforts.
QUEEN of PENTACLES
The Queen of Pentacles is a maternal, gregarious person who offers practical solutions and is interested in the arts. They are financially secure, allowing them to be generous to those they love. Like all court cards, they can signify a person coming into your life, or that their qualities are being manifested in you.
REVERSED MEANING: When shown in reverse, this can signify that responsibilities are being shirked. A lazy or manipulative person is causing strife.
KING of PENTACLES
A successful businessperson comes to the fore. They are adept at finances and negotiations, and are driven by wealth (rather than creative endeavors). They may be a useful mentor or advisor, or perhaps inspire you to look to worldly matters. This card is a reminder to enjoy the physical and material pleasures of life.
REVERSED MEANING: An individual motivated by money may be unethical and weak, putting wealth above relationships and honor. Be cautious.
The SUIT of SWORDS
This suit is concerned with matters of the mind: intelligence, mental health, and communication. It is associated with the element of Air, which is pure and expansive. The sword itself represents the two sides of the mind: its sharp thinking and its cutting edge.
ACE of SWORDS
The ace indicates a “eureka” moment: a breakthrough in thinking or a new creative idea. This has the potential to change your world, but it is also likely to create conflict with others; do not let this be a deterrent, because ultimately success will come.
The Swords suit is connected to justice, and this idea may well be about helping others, perhaps in a legal sense.
REVERSED MEANING: Conflict with others means that you cannot think straight. Accept help, and be positive.
TWO of SWORDS
A state of precarious balance. At the moment, everything may appear stable from the outside, but the balance cannot last. There is a refusal to come down on one side or the other. Disruption is inevitable, and solutions must be found. If your instincts are unclear, seek advice, perhaps from a counselor. Health may be jeopardized by doing too much for others.
REVERSED MEANING: Events are fast-moving, which is disconcerting. Avoid making promises that commit you.
THREE of SWORDS
A painful card, which may indicate a breakdown in relations or a legal separation
—animosity and vicious words are likely. This is a time to express your grief so that healing can begin. The machinations of a third party may be making the conflict worse; a lover may have been unfaithful. Ultimately, the pain felt now can make you a stronger person.
REVERSED MEANING: You are through the worst. Forgiveness is possible, even if events cannot be undone.
FOUR of SWORDS
This card indicates stress and anxiety after a period of change. It is unrealistic to expect continuous progress; stability is needed. Now it is necessary to withdraw in order to recharge your energies, take note of what has already been achieved, and consolidate. Look after your health, and connect with family and old friends.
REVERSED MEANING: Utter exhaustion. If care has not been taken, a health condition could become chronic. Advice from close allies has been ignored. Concentrate on recovery.
FIVE of SWORDS
This card signifies that you have been involved in a conflict that resulted in a loss on your part. Fives are concerned with disruption, and here—in the suit of the mind—the struggle has been generated by an inflated sense of worth or abilities. Perhaps there is an ongoing power struggle, or too great a task has been undertaken.
REVERSED MEANING: Defeat has left you feeling bruised and anxious. Pessimism or negative thinking.
SIX of SWORDS
This card implies movement—a physical journey, a shift in mental attitude, or the overcoming of an obstacle. The change comes after a period of turmoil; you have reached a calmer place, though it may not yet be a happy one.
The six of Swords may indicate a visitor from overseas, a useful perspective from an adviser, or the communication of an unusual idea.
REVERSED MEANING: An idea that is too challenging to be accepted. Frustration or blockages. Delays to a journey.
SEVEN of SWORDS
Understand that a direct approach will fail—it is necessary to present ideas with tact and guile, even if this feels duplicitous. Group dynamics are not productive because you are at odds with the prevailing viewpoint; step back for now and observe the opposition closely before considering how best to achieve your aims.
REVERSED MEANING: Isolation. You may be trying to manipulate or dupe others into an agreement. Even if your aim is achieved, there will be negative consequences.
EIGHT of SWORDS
A choice must be made, but each option involves some difficulty. The situation is usually a consequence of failing to act through fear or a misguided sense of loyalty. It may be that a relationship has run its course, but limps on because you are afraid to be alone. The eight is a reminder that you are free to act, but honesty and stoicism are needed.
REVERSED MEANING: You are paralyzed with indecision, or stuck in a situation that is uncomfortable. Self-isolation.
NINE of SWORDS
This card signifies an unwelcome realization that your choices have resulted in a painful situation. The nine can signify anxiety and hopelessness, perhaps an illness that may be linked to past action. Or, it may be the grief that follows the rupturing of an important relationship through death, betrayal, or separation.
REVERSED MEANING: A sense of powerlessness leads to the repression of difficult emotions, but these need to be released for healing to commence.
TEN of SWORDS
A card of hard lessons. It represents the moment when you feel it is not possible to go any lower or take any more. But when you reach rock bottom, there is always hope, and the only way is up. Sometimes our darkest moments are the finest teachers. This may be the time when the greatest lesson of your life is learned.
REVERSED MEANING: A reversal of fortunes is in motion, but much work needs to be done. A rift can be healed.
PAGE of SWORDS
Children are born explorers; they seek to make sense of the world and question what they see. This is the curious nature embodied in the Page.
This card may represent an actual person or indicate a desire to study, learn, or take off in a new direction. Messages bring surprising news, or secrets may be uncovered.
REVERSED MEANING: A mercurial and fickle youth causes friction. Gossip or silly quarrels. Watch your back.
KNIGHT of SWORDS
The Knight of Swords uses a sharp wit to win arguments and force change. They are fearless and fast-moving, and signal the part of you that wants to get things done. They represent a dynamic person whose new ideas broaden your horizons.
The card also signifies the impulse to shake things up, travel, and succeed.
REVERSED MEANING: An impatient person takes advantage or claims credit for ideas that are not their own. Risky decisions.
QUEEN of SWORDS
The Queen of Swords indicates a quick-witted, high-achieving person who is loyal and has high ideals. This is the widow’s card, and it may point to someone who has lost a partner or focused on work to the detriment of love and friendship.
This card can represent someone who helps your career, or it may challenge you to bring the Queen’s incisive qualities to the fore in yourself.
REVERSED MEANING: A person who is bitter as a result of great pain; beware of confiding in or relying on such a person.
KING of SWORDS
An authoritative person who is a clear, strategic thinker with a strong sense of morality may enter your life. Or, this card may represent your own need to plan and act logically in order to manifest change or gain an advantage.
The King of Swords can also indicate legal judgments, sound business plans, or good advice from a mentor.
REVERSED MEANING: A highly critical person, who can be harshly judgmental and sometimes abusive. A lack of empathy.
The SUIT of CUPS
This is the suit of love, emotions, and the heart. It is equivalent to the suit of hearts in a playing deck and is linked to the element of Water—representing the fluidity of our feelings and the depths of our subconscious. When a spread reveals many cup cards, the issues center around people and relationships.
ACE of CUPS
Like all aces, this card represents a new beginning. It is a “being” rather than a “doing” card, indicating the surge of emotion that is the prelude to romance or heralds a new stage in a relationship; it can also indicate a time of happy socializing or an outpouring of compassion or forgiveness.
Cups are linked to the home, so there may be happy news on the domestic front.
REVERSED MEANING: Superficiality or self-absorption threaten a relationship. Disappointment or disillusionment.
TWO of CUPS
The partnership card often indicates the start of a love affair, but it can also signify an important friendship, a budding business relationship, or a reconciliation following a period of separation. The two partners come together as equals, harmoniously, respecting each other’s needs in a perfectly balanced union.
REVERSED MEANING: Arguments or relationship difficulties involving opposing interests—one partner may be trying to dominate the other. A breakup or divorce.
THREE of CUPS
Some kind of emotional result has been achieved, evoking feelings of great joy. Perhaps a relationship has reached a milestone, a child has been born, or you are now part of a group in which you feel accepted and loved. Celebrate and enjoy, but remember this is a staging post on a longer journey.
Indicates sensitivity to others and a capacity for giving.
REVERSED MEANING: The needs of the individual are subsumed within the group. You are overly focused on having fun and forgetting to prepare for the future.
FOUR of CUPS
A relationship is no longer satisfying or interesting, or you are feeling depressed and overly focused on your own emotions. A change is needed, a wind of change that will dispel the enveloping fog. The good news is that the current negativity may be the spur for a period of reevaluation that will force a new direction.
REVERSED MEANING: You should guard against apathy or becoming so self-absorbed that opportunities and offers of aid are missed.
FIVE of CUPS
A difficult card, which suggests that something has been lost or a wrong has been done. You must repent and make amends as best you can.
Lessons must be learned before it is possible to move on. You must let go of the “might-have-beens” and face the reality of the now.
Don’t ignore your inner voice and spiritual needs.
REVERSED MEANING: You are struggling to come to terms with a loss. An attitude of pessimism and self-pity is proving to be an obstacle to progress.
SIX of CUPS
The positive happenings signaled by this card stem from the past—perhaps an old friendship has been rekindled, a teenage sweetheart has reappeared, or you have returned to your home town.
This card may also indicate the pleasure to be had in childish pursuits or in spending time with children.
REVERSED MEANING: Beware of hankering after the past or of dissipating energy on pursuits and people who no longer serve your needs.
SEVEN of CUPS
This is a time of multiple possibilities—exciting opportunities that could lead to greater happiness. Perhaps a new love interest is proving a temptation, or there are interesting creative projects or new spiritual paths to be explored? But in which direction should you go? You must look within, choose wisely, and then start the work necessary to realize your goal.
REVERSED MEANING: You are trying to juggle too much or engaging in wishful thinking; a desired goal will disappoint.
EIGHT of CUPS
The eight is not a comfortable card. It implies that you know change is necessary, but are not quite sure how to go about achieving it. A relationship or friendship may have run its course, or the needs of others are proving too great a burden. The best choice may be to walk away, even if that means giving up what has been achieved thus far.
REVERSED MEANING: Difficulties are a part of all relationships; more time is needed before making a decision.
NINE of CUPS
A happy card that signifies all is well and a longed-for desire has been fulfilled. This is a time of generosity and well-being; health is good and you have a sense of ease and completion. Enjoy the boons with which you have been blessed, and take care to maintain a sense of gratitude.
REVERSED MEANING: Contentment and abundance can spill over into indulgence and greed; have a sense of restraint. Avoid appearing to boast of good fortune.
TEN of CUPS
This card marks the happy-ever-after ending and a time when all is well and love, peace, and harmony reign. Everyone is working together and nobody is missing out. Lasting stability and heartfelt commitment have been achieved.
Marriage, additions to the family, or the start of an important relationship are indicated.
REVERSED MEANING: A betrayal or a feud threatens the happiness of the family, group, or partnership.
PAGE of CUPS
The Page of Cups indicates the significance of a young, emotional, naive, and idealistic person in your life, or may imply that your own free spirit needs nurturing. Perhaps you have regained the ability to trust after being hurt or are enjoying the thrill of romance. Dreams may deliver useful insights or happy news.
REVERSED MEANING: You may be ignoring your dreams for fear of being hurt. Have courage.
KNIGHT of CUPS
Knights on their chargers tend to deliver change, and this one represents the first flush of romance. They may represent you or a partner, or the heady, for-the-hell-of-it passion that we sometimes need to make the most of our creative and emotional life. This card can also signify a proposal or an invitation.
REVERSED MEANING: An all-consuming passion or interest is causing harm; a charismatic person is duplicitous.
QUEEN of CUPS
The Queen of Cups is a loving, attractive, sensitive person. When this card appears, it may indicate that someone like this is playing a major role in your life, or it may suggest the need to explore your inner life and embrace your deepest emotional truths. This card signifies the unconditional love of a mother, and perhaps the need for greater self-acceptance or artistic freedom.
REVERSED MEANING: An admired person does not give the desired support; another’s self-interest causes harm.
KING of CUPS
A loving person who gives the positive regard and unstinting support that enables you to flourish emotionally or creatively—a counselor, spiritual teacher, or patron of the arts, for example. This card could also indicate that you need to find such qualities within so you can have the confidence to fulfill your destiny.
REVERSED MEANING: Someone who is unable to trust and therefore seeks to take control and dominate others. Be on your guard against hypocrisy or double-dealing.
