THE

TAROT

REVEALED

PAUL FENTON-SMITH

THE

TAROT

REVEALED

A BEGINNER'S GUIDE

First published in 2008

Copyright © Paul Fenton-Smith 2008

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the publisher. The Australian Copyright Act 1968 (the Act) allows a maximum of one chapter or 10 per cent of this book, whichever is the greater, to be photocopied by any educational institution for its educational purposes provided that the educational institution (or body that administers it) has given a remuneration notice to Copyright Agency Limited (CAL) under the Act.

Inspired Living, an imprint of

Allen & Unwin

83 Alexander Street

Crows Nest NSW 2065

Australia

Phone:     (61 2) 8425 0100

Fax:         (61 2) 9906 2218

Email:      info@allenandunwin.com

Web:        www.allenandunwin.com

The Cataloguing-in-Publication entry is available

from the National Library of Australia

ISBN 978 1 74175 259 5

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.

Colour charts by Andrew Zagdanski

Back cover photo by Lisa Hogben

Text design by Kirby Stalgis

Set in 10.5/14 pt Birka by Bookhouse, Sydney

Printed by South Wind Productions, Singapore

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Dedicated to Alexander, my loving Knight of Swords who is patient and accepting of his eccentric father. In 15 years this King and Knight have never been at crossed swords.

With special thanks to Cathy Jonas, who edited several drafts and coached me to make this book more enjoyable reading. Thanks also to Wynsome Clarke for her computer help and patience.

CONTENTS

Preface

PART I INTRODUCTION

1 How the Tarot can help you

2 What is the Tarot?

3 The Tarot—from the past to today

PART II SIMPLE READINGS

4 The suit of Wands

5 The story of the Suit of Wands

6 Court cards

7 One-card readings

8 Reversed cards

PART III INCREASING YOUR SKILLS

9 The Suit of Cups

10 The story of the Suit of Cups

11 The Blank card

12 The Suit of Swords

13 The story of the Suit of Swords

14 How accurate are Tarot readings?

15 The Suit of Pentacles

16 The story of the Suit of Pentacles

17 Answering questions about money

18 Using intuition when reading

PART IV ADVANCED READING TECHNIQUES

19 The Major Arcana

20 The story of the Major Arcana

21 Tarot card layouts

22 Starting out as a reader

Bibliography

LIST OF COLOUR CHARTS IN THE BOOK:

Tarot Chart of the Minor Arcana

The Story of the Suit of Wands

The Story of the Suit of Cups

The Story of the Suit of Swords

The Story of the Suit of Pentacles

The Story of the Major Arcana

Colouring of the Court Cards

Colour Meanings in the Tarot

LIST OF BLACK-AND-WHITE CHARTS IN THE BOOK:

One Card Readings

The Seven Card Layout

Cards in Combination

Four Planes Layout

Five Card Lesson Layout

The Five Alternatives Layout

The Karma Reading

Statement Layout

Spiritual Direction Layout

Four Elements Layout

Tarot Cards for Astrological Signs

PREFACE

Making the right decision can mean the difference between success and failure, and personal happiness or frustration. But how do you make the right decision with confidence? The Tarot can help.

The Tarot is a tool that can be used to assist decision-making. It is not designed to replace free will, but rather to help you in the use of your free will by giving you additional information when important decisions are to be made.

The Tarot Revealed is designed to introduce you to the Tarot in easy steps. By page 60 you will be able to give simple readings, and by the end of the book you will be confident in interpreting this ancient tool that has been used by people for thousands of years.

Each card description is divided into general and relationship meanings for quick reference when giving a reading, and to help you learn more rapidly. You are encouraged to practise with your own Tarot pack as you read this book, as this will help you build a working knowledge of the cards.

Numerous anecdotes throughout the book bring the meanings of each card to life. These anecdotes are based on real people and real readings, although names and circumstances have been altered to protect the identity of the people involved.

This book is a valuable reference for both the beginner and the more advanced Tarot reader. Once you have become familiar with the Tarot in Parts I and II the book, Parts III and IV take you deeper into the uses for the cards and show a variety of readings you can give.

Why a step-by-step guide?

Becoming confident with the Tarot is a learning process, which can be simplified by breaking the cards down into their suits, or groups. Mastering each step allows you to read the cards with confidence. In the meantime you are encouraged to read only those cards you have become familiar with until you eventually know the complete pack.

To make the most of this book you will need a Rider-Waite Tarot deck and people for whom you can read for practice. If you want to learn the cards more thoroughly, it’s worthwhile taking a set of pencils and colouring the images of each card in the book in the correct colours according to the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.

The Tarot is an amazing tool, and is easier to learn than you might think. Try the methods outlined in this book and you will be reading the cards by page 56!

PART I

Introduction

Chapter 1

HOW THE TAROT CAN HELP YOU

I don’t know her name, yet I’ll never forget her face. Her pale blue eyes, intense in their search for meaning, stood out starkly in contrast to her flame-red hair. She sat down as though she hadn’t seen a chair in weeks; four children under the age of seven can do that to a person. She had strength in her face, and she would need this strength for her life ahead. She had only one question: ‘My husband’s been arrested for armed robbery, and they’re holding him pending a hearing. Will he be sent down for more than two years?’

It was a weighty question for my first Tarot reading of the day. The cards she chose described her husband’s accomplices, and briefly detailed his previous prison term. The spread of cards before me confirmed that her husband was indeed about to be sentenced to more than two years in prison for his part in the robbery. I told her what the cards indicated. She didn’t flinch as I gave her my reading, but I noticed her face lose some of the life it had held when she first sat down. She seemed to have aged five years during the course of 20 minutes. Before she left, I asked her if she would tell her husband.

‘No. He doesn’t believe in the Tarot.’

It strikes me as odd that those people who ridicule or fear the Tarot are often the same people who would spend an evening playing cards with friends. Perhaps they might change their attitude towards playing cards if they knew their origin: the modern deck of playing cards derived from the Tarot, and the Fool in the Tarot has remained in the form of the Joker.

The Tarot is more than a set of cards; it is a book of life. Life offers us an infinite number of possibilities, yet we often limit ourselves through habit, fear of change or simple routine. We all have physical needs: we must eat and keep warm to survive. Beyond these survival needs, however, we have emotional, mental and spiritual needs. The Tarot is a book of symbols which relates directly to our needs on all of these levels.

The Tarot is not only about predicting the future. That is one aspect of the Tarot, but it can be used for many other purposes. The Tarot can highlight the spiritual causes of events and shed light on the lessons we can learn from the challenges presented to us. The Tarot can help us to decide on the most suitable course of action, when to move and when to wait, or when to look in another direction entirely.

In 1991, I spent the first five weeks of a six-month holiday in London searching for the perfect car for my needs. I scoured the papers. I made dozens of phone calls, and I tested virtually every make and model of car around. I drove everybody close to me completely insane with my obsessive talk. My first question to a new acquaintance was often, ‘What sort of car do you drive?’ My friends finally banned me from talking about cars after five o’clock so that they might enjoy the evenings.

Every time I asked the Tarot cards if the car I’d test-driven was right for me, they would tell me, no, that I was to wait. I was never very good at waiting, so I ignored their advice and continued searching for a car.

I started out with a budget of £1500, but as time went by I was gradually spending it. Soon £1200 became £850, then £500. Still the cards told me to wait, and still I ignored them. I had done my research and knew all the makes and models, but I was no closer to owning a car. I couldn’t bear it any longer. I asked the cards what I was meant to be looking for in a car. Their answer? Red. Finally, some help! Now each and every red car stood out to me as though it was calling my name.

One rainy Wednesday I sat inside reading the local paper, trying to convince myself that I was in no hurry to turn to the used car ads. I consulted the cards one more time and nearly fainted when they said ‘Yes’ to my question—now was the right time for me to buy a car.

I read the classified advertisements carefully and rang the owners of the only two cars within my £250 price range. The first car had been sold and the second car was silver, not red. ‘1 don’t care. I’ll paint the rotten thing myself!’ I snorted. I asked the cards if this was the car for me and they answered with a clear ‘No’. Tossing the paper away in disgust, I went for a walk.

Returning in a calmer mood I took a different approach: ‘Is the perfect car for me advertised in today’s local paper?’ ‘Yes’, came the clear reply. At last I was getting somewhere! Searching through the paper once again, I found two more possibilities albeit at the upper limit of my price range. I rang the first one and got no answer. The second call was answered by a woman who explained that the car belonged to her son and, yes, it was red. ‘When I say it’s red I am being generous,’ she continued. ‘In all fairness it was red. The paint is rather faded now, and it’s a chalky red at best. The asking price is £275.’

Later that day, after a brief test-drive, we agreed on a price of £250. I parted with my money for a car that gave me more pleasure than any other car I have owned before or since: a 1973 Saab 99.

‘The paint is a bit faded,’ I told a friend before taking her to see the car for the first time.

‘What do you mean the paint is faded? I’ll give a reward to anyone who can find a scrap of paint on this car before sunset,’ she laughed.

I’ve learned from experience that if you ask the Tarot a question, it is best to act upon the information you are given. All too often I have ignored the advice the cards have given me, only to regret my actions later.

The Tarot does not replace free will. Rather, it can give us more information upon which to base our decisions. This brings us to the obvious question: what is the Tarot?

Chapter 2

WHAT IS THE TAROT?

The Tarot is a pack of 78 printed cards and one blank card. It consists of 22 Major Arcana (or picture) cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards.

The Major Arcana cards are numbered 0–21. Each card has a title such as the Fool or the World, for example. The Major Arcana cards describe the spiritual causes of everyday events, and the Minor Arcana cards detail everyday happenings. While the Minor Arcana cards might tell you of problems in your love relationship, the Major Arcana cards will tell you the underlying lesson to be learned in that situation.

The Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits of 14 cards each. Each suit consists of cards numbered 1–10, and includes four Court cards—King, Queen, Knight and Page. These suits have different names from ordinary playing cards, but correspond to each suit. They are the suits of:

• Wands (Clubs)

• Cups (Hearts)

• Swords (Spades)

• Pentacles (Diamonds).

At first the myriad cards and their many variations may seem confusing. However this language of symbols is already familiar to your subconscious mind, so in fact you will be remembering the cards rather than learning them.

The Tarot is a book of symbols, and once you are familiar with these symbols the Tarot becomes a doorway to previously hidden knowledge and information. The Tarot is a tool to facilitate physical, emotional, mental and spiritual growth and learning. The Tarot can be used for predicting the future, but it is not limited to that. It can also illuminate the underlying causes of a situation and reveal the lessons to be learned from a situation. This is best illustrated by the old saying:

Those who do not learn from history are destined to repeat it.

The Tarot can be used to seek the most appropriate course of action in a given situation, so we don’t have to repeat our lessons again and again. The above saying reminds us that we are all repeating lessons and that we all have the opportunity of moving on to more challenging alternatives.

Chapter 3

THE TAROT—FROM THE PAST TO TODAY

The history of the Tarot is obscure. It originated thousands of years ago, and is directly related to a system of theosophy known as the Qabbalah. The Qabbalah (or Cabbala) is the name of the Jewish oral tradition or esoteric doctrine based on the mystical interpretation of the scriptures.

Many people who have studied the origins of the Tarot believe that the cards we have today originated from a Chinese system whereby numerous sticks similar to thin chopsticks, each painted with characters and possessing its own unique meaning, were handed around in a thin box or holder. Each person in the room selected one stick, and the stick selected related to its holder’s immediate situation.

These sticks, still found in China and in the temples of Thailand, are a popular way for locals to solve problems. Temple visitors give a donation to the temple, select one stick and meditate upon its inscription.

The Tarot surfaced in its current form in fourteenth century Italy as a game called Tarocci. The French adaptation of the word was Tarot. Modern Italian playing cards still display the symbols of Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles.

During the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries the Church of Rome attempted to quell those philosophies and theosophies it felt were growing in direct competition to it, and the Tarot was outlawed as a method of divination. The Church leaders feared that the Tarot might put the power of God into the hands of men.

However, as with all beliefs that are based upon universal truths, the Tarot has survived. In fact, the Vatican has the largest occult library in the world today, collected mostly during the twelfth, thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Count Louis Hamon, in his book Confessions: Memoirs of a Modern Seer, writes of the afternoon he spent exploring the Vatican library, after a 90-minute conversation with Pope Leo XIII, a keen numerologist. He describes rooms full of priceless books, written in many languages.

Many of the popular Tarot decks in use today originated with members of a group called the Golden Dawn, founded in England in 1888 as a secret magical fraternity. Its members are credited with designing three Tarot decks. These are the Thoth deck, by Aleister Crowley; the Golden Dawn deck, by Israel Regardie and illustrated by Robert Wang; and the Rider-Waite deck, by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Coleman Smith. The cards illustrated in this book are from the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.

PART II

Simple readings

Colouring

Arthur Waite suggested that the colouring of each suit varied, but remember that the personality traits are more important than the colour of hair and eyes. Waite used the four suits primarily to describe the European peoples. His colour suggestion is as follows.

Wands:

Blue eyes and red to brown hair. Traditionally the Celtic people of Europe. The early Celtic people were wanderers, and were often passionate, enthusiastic people.

Cups:

Blue or hazel eyes and brown to blonde hair. Traditionally the Scandinavian or Northern European people.

Swords:

Dark hair and eyes. Traditionally the southern Europeans found around the Mediterranean.

Pentacles:

Dark hair and eyes. Traditionally the darker races from Africa and Asia.

These colourings are limited because in one family of dark haired children, you might find Cups, Wands, Swords and Pentacles children with identical colouring. This is why it is more accurate to describe the personality traits of the Court cards so that clients can identify friends and family members from your description. This may not be enough when predicting a love relationship partner, as clients often want to know what physical features to look out for when searching for a mate. Don’t allow yourself to feel pressured into giving physical descriptions if you are unsure. If a client presses me for a physical description, I usually point out that his or her hair is only a particular colour on the day I glimpse it. This is before you add the possibility of coloured contact lenses, tanning salons, spray on tans and cosmetic surgery.

Because Asian people tend to be one colouring (dark hair and eyes) this doesn’t automatically make all Asian people Swords or Pentacles types. Scandinavian people tend towards the blonde hair with blue eyes, but this doesn’t make them all Cups people. Think of the stereotypical Swiss banker or financial advisor, more likely to be a Swords or Pentacles person despite the colouring. A friend has nine brothers and sisters whose looks range from pale skin, blonde hair and blue eyes to olive skin and black hair. As a musician, she describes it as themes and variations.

I’ve noticed that if a Queen of Wands colours her hair, it is more likely to be red than any other colour. Visiting a local Japanese takeaway restaurant with my seven-year-old son, the woman serving us had bright red hair.

‘I thought that they all had black hair,’ he whispered when she left the table.

‘They do. She probably dyed her hair because she likes red hair,’ I replied. He brightened at the thought and said, ‘I’m going to dye my hair blue in the school holidays. Mummy said I can.’ As Mummy is a conservative Queen of Pentacles, I very much doubted that was likely to occur.

Colour Meanings in the Tarot

Red:

Ardour or eagerness in approaching life and its challenges. Cards which contain lots of red such as the Emperor, show a physical or practical approach to life.

Orange:

A passionate or enthusiastic approach to life. Cards containing plenty of orange (as the Wands cards do) show a zealous or hot-blooded approach to life.

Yellow:

An intellectual approach to the situation at hand. Cards containing plenty of yellow (such as Strength and the Sun) show mental curiosity and logical thought and analysis.

Green:

Harmony and balance are symbolised in the Tarot by the colour green. Very few cards in the Rider-Waite deck have more than a token amount of green.

Blue:

Balanced spiritual understanding is symbolised by the use of the colour blue in the Tarot. It shows intellect combined with a spiritual perspective, encompassing life’s bigger picture.

Purple:

Compassion is symbolised by the use of the colour purple in the Tarot. Cards which use purple such as the Lovers (compassion for a partner) or Justice (compassion for strangers), show that compassion begins with those close to us and can expand to strangers as we mature.

White:

Purity of motive is shown by the colour white in the Tarot, such as the white flowers in the Six of Cups (when two people share a tender, private moment) or the white lilies and white tunic in the Magician, where he relies on pure motives he possessed in the Fool (shown as the snow-capped mountains) to progress to the next card.

For a colour reference, see the Colour Meanings in the Tarot chart in the colour section of the book.

Chapter 4

THE SUIT OF WANDS

The Suit of Wands represents the element of Fire. Fire relates to physical energy, enthusiasm, action, vitality and a love of challenges. Travelling (or wandering) and reaching for goals are also qualities associated with this element. In astrology, the Fire signs are Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. Astrology, palmistry and numerology are all connected to the Tarot, and learning these subjects can increase your understanding of the Tarot.

If the Suit of Wands features prominently in a Tarot layout, you can expect the person you are reading for (or client) to be of a fiery temperament. It would be safe to relate such a layout to challenges, travel and other Fire attributes.

People with a fiery nature need to know that they are alive, and whether they achieve this feeling through excitement or through conflict can be of little consequence. The sheer exhilaration they can experience when directing all their energy towards a particular purpose far surpasses the feeling they get from more passive pursuits. For Wands types, to have a purpose is often more important than achieving it.

Wands types thrive on conquest in love and in business, and can enjoy the challenge more than the rewards. When an objective is met they seek another, hopefully bigger and brighter, challenge. It is the earthy types (Pentacles) who enjoy the rewards more than the pursuit.

Fire by its very nature leaps upwards, both for fuel and to expand. It represents optimism, confidence and hope. Like fire, Wands types approach life with eagerness and action, and they are fuelled by challenges, new horizons and conflicts. Without action, Wands types can become melancholy. Because inaction and deep despair are not feelings that Wands types feel naturally, they can sometimes be intolerant of people who are experiencing these states.

A typical Wands understanding of life might be:

If I hear, I forget.

If I see, I remember.

If I do, I understand.

Wands people usually learn by doing, and avoid theory whenever possible.

Ace of Wands

The Ace of Wands indicates an energetic beginning of a project, and signifies eagerness, strength and courage to undertake the new. It is a card for beginning action that will produce physical results, as opposed to planning action. The Ace appears when the action takes place. Beyond any plans or decisions, the Ace of Wands shows the physical act of starting something new.

From a cloud appears a hand holding a wand. The wand is depicted as a living, growing object, and the castle in the background represents the objective. The wand shown as a living form echoes the life and enthusiasm Wands types bring to everyday events. Wands people thrive on goals and challenges, and will pursue potential conquests with enthusiasm. Pursuing a worthwhile goal gives them a sense of purpose. The clear skies in this card indicate a clear vision of purpose at this time.

The Ace is not a card for thinking or feeling, but for doing. It can signify a time of strength, power and great sexual and physical energy. It is a card indicating travel and movement, and often heralds a love of living. There are few restrictions when the Ace of Wands appears in a layout.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Ace of Wands describes the energy and the desire of putting your plans into action. One of my clients, David, had been saving money for 15 months when he came to me for a reading. His plan was to travel to Canada and Europe with his girlfriend, Marlene. However, having spent the past months engrossed in their work and saving money, their relationship had suffered, and Marlene had recently met another man and had left David to live with her new partner. David was devastated, yet could not give up his plans to travel for so many of his hopes were invested in this trip.

The Ace of Wands came up in his first layout, and I told him that he was likely to be travelling soon. It appeared that he would be putting some of his plans into physical action.

Six weeks later I received a postcard from David, saying that he was leaving Toronto for London that afternoon. The Ace represented action in the layout, and David was truly living out his plans as shown in the Ace of Wands.

Relationship meaning

The Ace of Wands suggests a beginning to a relationship. It could be a new relationship, or simply a new stage of an existing one. It suggests a physical beginning, or some physical activity accompanying the new stage. It still suggests travel, but in a relationship reading such travel is connected with the relationship.

I recently saw the Ace of Wands appear in a relationship reading in a position where it represented the past 18 months. Further investigation revealed that the travel connection was that this woman had met a man on a recent trip to Scotland, and she was asking about their relationship.

Ace of Wands reversed

When the Ace of Wands appears reversed to the reader (that is, it appears upside down), it has a slightly different meaning from the upright Ace. It still suggests that this is a time to undertake new projects, although the process will be slower than if the Ace appears upright. This can be due to a dissipation of energies into other projects or challenges, or because a previous project has not been completed. When the Ace appears reversed, it indicates that existing situations need to be resolved before new ambitions can be realised.

For example, Carl wanted to begin working on an exciting new project, and his enthusiasm was positively infectious. He had designed a small gadget and was seeking interested parties to assist him to develop the product. The problem was, this was his fourth invention in ten months and he was yet to develop the other three inventions past the concept stage. He was also working full time as a laboratory assistant and so had limited time to spend on his projects. In his case, the Ace of Wands reversed indicated that he needed to either complete or discard some of his other projects, or leave his full-time job before he could truly begin to realise his plans.

Another meaning of the Ace reversed is delays in travel plans or the completion of travel. For example, you may have recently returned from a trip, and the Ace reversed describes your life settling down once again.

The Ace of Wands reversed can also depict delays in anticipated results due to too much unfocused energy. It can indicate that your energy and enthusiasm need to be harnessed, or you will start many projects and finish only a few.

In a relationship question, the reversed Ace can suggest delays in beginning the relationship or a new stage of it. It can suggest that one partner is bogged down with work commitments, as a reversed Ace suggests that you need to return to the upright Ten of that suit to master the lesson therein.

Two of Wands

In the Two of Wands, one wand is bolted to the wall while the other is free. This indicates that you have two alternatives. One part of you is content to be still, while another part of you has a desire to move on, to change or to travel.

The person depicted in the Two of Wands is bored. His accomplishments (represented by the low wall) have walled him in. The globe in his hand indicates that he is in the process of making a decision. His world (that is, his accomplishments or environment) seems insignificant to him now, as he has outgrown it. The land offers stability and the water offers serenity, but he looks over the water to the distant mountains and the challenges they represent. The sky is cloudy, but he does not notice for he is focused within.

The Two of Wands indicates a time of outgrowing present circumstances and deciding upon a course of action for the future. It represents the realisation that what you have is not enough, as well as the process of deciding what you will do next.

General meaning

The Two of Wands represents a decision. It is often a physical decision, such as deciding whether to move to another home, to change jobs or to make some physical change in your life. In a question about career, the Two can suggest that you are deciding whether to change jobs or perhaps even careers.

The Two does not represent the action of changing a job or moving to another home, but the decision to do so. (The action is represented by the Three of Wands.) Decisions usually precede actions, and the Two represents the weighing up of alternatives. It is a choice between what you have become accustomed to and what you want to have.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Two of Wands can suggest a decision about a relationship, or a decision about whether to make a deeper commitment to a relationship. For example, Janet was deciding whether to move in with her partner, Robert. She wanted to, but was unsure how she would cope with Robert’s seven-year-old daughter, who spent most weekends with him. Janet wanted the relationship to develop, but could not help wondering if living with Robert would cause more problems than opportunities.

The Two of Wands showed her weighing up the alternatives. She lived in a pleasant flat and enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, but it was all a bit familiar and did not offer the opportunities that living with Robert presented. However, Robert was a complete slob around the house, and Janet might have been irritated by this very quickly. The Two indicated that Janet had to consider both the positive and negative aspects of living with Robert, and carefully weigh the alternatives against one another when making her decision.

Two of Wands reversed

In the Two of Wands reversed, the person in the card is bored and dissatisfied, but afraid to move on to another challenge. He tries to convince himself that there are no other alternatives out there for him, and that perhaps he should stay here where it is safe and familiar. However, he needs to venture outside his safe haven in order to see what life holds for him out there in the world.

When reversed, the Two of Wands suggests that you abandon the weighing up of alternatives in favour of jumping directly into new experiences. When you leave safe, secure situations and enter the unknown or the new, you release vast amounts of energy. This energy can be in the form of fear, hope, anticipation, dread, and so on. No matter what form it takes, you know that you are alive.

The Two of Wands reversed indicates a change made suddenly, after a long and unsatisfying situation. Perhaps you have spent time justifying why you should stay in the situation, telling yourself: ‘It’s not so bad here, really. Others would love to have a situation such as this. I could be a lot worse off. Look at Joe—he would gladly trade places with me. And here am I complaining and feeling unsatisfied.’ Life often forces change upon us when we don’t take responsibility for our actions. It is true that others might love to be in your position, but if you have outgrown it perhaps you should give it to them and move on. If you don’t do it yourself, life may eventually do it for you, or to you.

In a relationship question, the reversed Two suggests that you are avoiding a decision which may affect your relationship. Perhaps you are reluctant to move in with your partner or to move away from a partner.

Three of Wands

The person in the Three of Wands is standing still, at rest. He is staring out to sea, watching the boats come into port to unload their supplies. These boats carry supplies for him. They might be raw materials or payments for goods sold in other countries. Although on one hand he is eager to move on, he has realised the value of sending his boats out ahead while he stays behind. In this way he keeps a hold over what he has accomplished while continually exploring life’s opportunities.

The Three of Wands can represent keeping relatively still while searching for meaning within yourself. It indicates that you are maintaining a state of balance, while exploring new avenues and interests both outside and within yourself.

The Three of Wands tells of action bringing plans a little closer to fruition. The person in the Three is now acting upon the decisions he made in the Two. It can depict accomplishment. He is temporarily still as he gazes out across the ocean. Having momentarily lost the urgency that is typical of the Wands type, he allows events to take their course as he prepares for the stability that is to be found in the Four of Wands.

The Three is the process of moving into the next natural stage of a situation, after some time spent in contemplation during the Two. It is often a card for travel, especially when it appears in a layout with the Page of Swords reversed, the Ace of Wands or the Eight of Wands. The person in this card stands with his back to us, wearing a travelling cloak. We view the scene from behind so that we can share his anticipation for the arrival of the boats. Wands types thrive on the anticipation of realising their goals. Patience is necessary now, for there is enough momentum in the situation to bring about change and growth.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Three of Wands can mean travel, or putting your plans into action.

The Three of Wands also suggests that you are thinking about your current situation, and searching for meaning both within and outside yourself.

Growth, progress with plans and travel can be signified by the Three of Wands.

Relationship meaning

The Three of Wands in a relationship reading can suggest a relationship which is growing and developing. You and your partner are experiencing growth as together you move towards deeper levels of commitment. This is the card that describes the act of Janet moving in with Robert. It also shows their relationship moving into its next natural stage, or into a deeper level of commitment.

A relationship centred around travel is suggested also, and the Three of Wands often appears when you are involved with someone who lives overseas. The Three can also signify a relationship that starts while one or both partners are travelling: a holiday romance or a relationship begun while on a business trip.

Three of Wands reversed

The Three of Wands reversed signals a time when contemplation is required. It is helpful to remember that when a card appears reversed, you need to return to the previous numbered upright card to master the lesson therein. For example, when the Three appears reversed, you must return to the lesson of the Two, and contemplate your alternatives.

The Three reversed also indicates a time when your physical or emotional growth is thwarted, suggesting that a new approach may be required. In some cases, it can be the act of ‘meeting the boats’ when they come in, and acting on new information or understanding. It can also indicate that you are disturbed by your past actions and decisions. This card signals a feeling of frustration at the decisions you made in the Two.

In a relationship layout, the reversed Three can signify delays in growth or progress regarding your relationship. It may be time to return to the upright Two of Wands, in order to make a decision about your life circumstances or your relationship.

Four of Wands

The Four of Wands depicts a consolidated home or work environment, where joy and sharing are an everyday part of life. In this card, the people are free to come and go as they please, and they are dancing and celebrating in the sunshine with all the eagerness, enthusiasm and optimism that are natural with the Wands types.

There is a wreath of welcome across the top of the four wands, and the dancing figures wave more flowers as they celebrate. This card is a positive indication of a move into a warm and supportive home or work environment. The people already in the environment feel good being there, and they welcome and support a newcomer.

The castle is a reminder of stability. Sometimes it can signify that the enthusiasm of the Wands type is presently being channelled into the home environment. For example, you may be renovating or repainting your home, making it more suitable to your present needs.

When the Four appears alongside the Three of Cups in a layout, it indicates a celebration or a gathering of like-minded people that will prove lively and enjoyable.

General meaning

The Four of Wands represents consolidation—the act of making solid or real the plans you pursued in the Three. It often suggests moving to a new home or changing jobs. It can also indicate that you are settling in to your current environment.

Jon had lived in a small terrace house for three years when he came to me for a reading. He complained that his flatmate showed limited commitment to living in the house, even to the point of refusing to bring in the mail. After studying the card layout, I suggested that Jon himself did not seem particularly settled in that home, and he agreed. As the Four of Wands appeared in the position representing the near future in his layout, it suggested that he was about to make that house more like a home. Immediately after the reading he decided to change the white walls to a colour he preferred, and to set about furnishing it comfortably.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Four of Wands can indicate that you are consolidating or stabilising your relationship. A deeper commitment or simply a stable, solid relationship is represented by the four wands firmly placed in the ground. The castle represents domestic stability while the people in the foreground demonstrate the love of movement of the fiery types.

Four of Wands reversed

The Four of Wands reversed indicates that you are leaving behind a home or a work environment, except that this time your new environment is likely to be quite different from the one you are leaving. It also suggests that there will be less stability in your new environment; for example, you could be leaving on a 12-month holiday overseas, during which you will visit six or seven countries. The Four reversed indicates that you are unlikely to settle down in any one place, as those four wands are no longer firmly grounded.

The Four reversed can indicate a temporary situation; for example, you may be working in a temporary job before something permanent comes along. It can also describe a lack of consolidation of plans. Sometimes the Four reversed suggests that you need to learn to appreciate what you have in terms of a home or work environment. All the possibilities of the upright card are evident, except that you do not participate in or contribute to the community that surrounds you. It is as though you do not belong with those people around you, or that you are simply passing through the community.

In a relationship reading, the Four reversed can describe a partnership that does not develop any depth. Perhaps growth was interrupted during the Three, in which case it is advisable to return to the lessons of the Three to embrace the growth, travel or change offered by the upright Three of Wands.

Five of Wands

The Five of Wands shows five people with five different approaches to a situation. Each person believes they have the best approach. Nobody is listening to anyone else. It is a case of ‘too many cooks spoil the broth’.

The Five of Wands is a card representing conflict. Although this conflict is not serious enough to harm anyone, it keeps all the people involved on their toes. It is the nature of Wands types to see life as a bit of a battle, because if there were no obstacles there would be no adventure. Wands types seek the joy of action and, with a sense of rules and fair play, they often enjoy sports and competitive activities. The Five of Wands involves an exchange which is physical, as distinct from the Five of Swords, which involves a mental exchange.

The Five can represent drawing to yourself unnecessary challenges which can delay you or distract you from your purpose. On the other hand, goals which seem further away or harder to achieve are often more appealing to Wands types.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Five of Wands can suggest that a group of people are not working together as a team. For example, you may be working on a team project for a short period, and each person in the team has their own idea of what they want. The Five indicates that there will be conflict before the team members agree to compromise or cooperate.

The Five of Wands can represent inner conflict resulting from too many simultaneous demands on your attention. For example, Marina selected the Five of Wands in almost every layout during a recent reading. She was trying to juggle a full-time job, an evening teaching position and a family while studying part time. All these things demanded her attention at once, and what had seemed appealing to her at the outset was now exhausting.

The Five can also indicate that you are scattering your energy in too many directions to be effective in any of them, or it can describe a struggle amid stiff competition.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Five of Wands can describe two people who have separate lives, unrelated interests and different friends. When such diverse lifestyles are pursued, intimacy can be sacrificed. Plenty of excitement but limited togetherness is indicated by the Five in a relationship spread.

The Five can also describe a fiery and competitive relationship which can result in regular conflict between partners.

Five of Wands reversed

When reversed, the Five of Wands shows that you have adopted a more broadminded approach and that you are prepared to compromise or to try a new approach. All of the Fives in the Tarot indicate change in some form. When reversed, they indicate a broad-minded and more accepting approach to change.

The Five reversed indicates a realisation that time and energy are being wasted, and that a new approach is necessary. Sometimes rules need to be abandoned and the battle needs to become more serious before you are prepared to change.

In a group or career reading, the Five reversed suggests that compromise is possible and that people in this situation are prepared to listen to each other more closely. The reversed Five of Wands shows that you need to return to the lesson of the upright Four of Wands, to embrace stability before experiencing more change. Generally, the reversed Five indicates stability returning after a period of change.

In a relationship question, the reversed Five signifies compromise and worthwhile negotiations. Partners seek union instead of independence with the Five reversed.

Six of Wands

The Six of Wands card shows a victory parade, with the hero crowned by a wreath (a symbol of personal power and triumph) and surrounded by his supporters.

In this card, the optimism of the fire types produces the success it desires and expects. This is not a false optimism or an empty expectation, but a genuine belief that comes from past success and the resulting self-confidence. With true belief in ourselves and in life’s possibilities, the energy to accomplish what we want is almost always supplied. Our success often inspires others to help or to follow us. Hence in the Six, others follow the man who is triumphant.

The Six of Wands represents a time when plans are likely to be successful, due to self-confidence and the proper harnessing of energies. It indicates a time to believe in yourself, and to use your personal power to achieve and fulfil your goals. The Six upright shows that you will be successful if you make the effort.

General meaning

The Six of Wands can represent a job promotion, confirmation of a goal reached, or simply a confident approach to life.

Jean-Paul was having trouble raising finance to expand his business, and he asked me if several banks would lend him the money. I examined the four cards he had selected—one for each bank. The third card of the four was the Six of Wands, and I told him that this was the bank most likely to assist him. He later confirmed that this bank was particularly keen to help him, and although two other banks had accepted his request for finance they had been slow in deciding to lend him the money. He chose the third bank.

If you ask the cards the question, ‘Will I be successful if I attempt . . . ?’, and the Six of Wands appears, the answer is clearly ‘Yes’.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Six of Wands confirms that both you and your partner have similar goals in the relationship, and that you are likely to achieve these goals. The Six can sometimes suggest that you are reaching a new stage of commitment in your relationship. For example, you may marry or live together, or perhaps decide to have children.

Gwen’s question involved a relationship dating back to 1945. At the end of World War II she was living in Scotland and met a young air force officer from America. They fell in love, although six weeks later he was transferred home. Gwen asked for her father’s permission to marry him, but her father refused and Gwen was heartbroken. As soon as she was able, Gwen moved out of the family home and pursued her own life. She didn’t see her air officer again.

Gwen married and moved to Australia where she raised a family. However, in the years that followed barely a day went by without a thought for her officer. When Gwen subsequently divorced she thought of him more than ever. During the reading I clearly saw this man, and I suggested that she write to the address in America where he was last known to live.

Gwen did this, and received a long letter in reply. It turned out that, like Gwen, the officer had also married yet had thought of her every day since their last meeting. He was divorced now too, and had travelled around the world three times in search of her to no avail.

Two months later they were reunited, and they came to visit me and presented me with a bottle of champagne to share their happiness. To celebrate their reunion they were leaving the following day on a world cruise.

The Six of Wands in a relationship layout indicates success as a result of two people sharing common goals.

Six of Wands reversed

When reversed, the Six of Wands can indicate false courage and optimism based on fear or weakness, with the result being limited or short-term success. Each thought or attitude that you give energy to grows and develops into something tangible, so negative thoughts, defeatism and suspicion tend to create corresponding realities.

In everyday terms, the Six reversed indicates that you are giving up too soon. Feeling overwhelmed or burdened, you have lost your expectation of success and you want to become free of a difficult situation. It can sometimes refer to you not accomplishing the success which is rightly yours, through giving up too soon.

The Six reversed can also describe the act of leaving someone or something behind. It indicates a lack of common direction within a relationship or in a career, which leads to separation.

In a relationship layout the reversed Six can indicate a separation or simply a lack of common goals in your relationship. It suggests a return to the upright Five where both partners attend to their own needs.

Seven of Wands

Like the Five, the Seven of Wands is a card of conflict. The purpose of all the visible activity may be the battle itself, because the man shown in this card is wearing an expression of determination and passion. For all his troubles in defending his territory, he is still in control, and is probably enjoying the challenge. Remember that Wands types enjoy a good struggle. To fight a good fight and to give it all they’ve got is exhilarating to these feisty people. Conflict reminds Wands types that they are alive.

The Seven can suggest opposition to your ideas or plans from those around you, but that this is not the time to give up. By forging ahead you will surely succeed. All of the Sevens in the Tarot share the meaning of don’t give up. Although the challenge may be greater than before, the Seven of Wands represents the act of throwing more of yourself into the task at hand.

General meaning

The Seven of Wands identifies your need for a greater challenge. In business terms, it can describe the act of breaking into interstate or overseas markets. These new markets will bring you additional challenges and problems to overcome. It can also indicate a time to diversify your business.

The Seven’s message is don’t give up. Forge onwards and you will be rewarded with success. The physical energy and activity you put into achieving your goal will be worthwhile.

The Seven can also indicate a time when you work two jobs in order to save for an overseas holiday or for a deposit on a home. If you make the effort, the rewards will be there for you eventually.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Seven of Wands describes a situation where one partner is constantly justifying their beliefs or their actions. In simpler terms, it can indicate a time of greater challenge within your relationship. For example, a new baby in your house can bring high stress levels and present a challenge, until the child grows and your family adjusts to the change.

The Seven can also signify a greater challenge in the form of reaching a deeper level of commitment within your relationship. Perhaps you haven’t experienced such a deep level of commitment before and are finding it challenging at first.

Seven of Wands reversed

The Seven of Wands reversed indicates that your fires are burning too low and you cannot meet the challenges facing you. You may experience difficulty in rising above the opposition and so sink into anxiety, indecision or depression.

The Seven reversed suggests that it’s time to shed old attitudes, particularly those which limit you. Perhaps you have an outdated way of coping with situations, or you see yourself the way you were when you were younger. This can be a time when your business is benefitting from a new market or from diversification, and yet you struggle with the old way of doing things.

All the reversed Sevens in the Tarot share a meaning of don’t hold on. This card emphasises the need to stop supporting a belief system which is no longer relevant. It is a sign to stop holding onto the past. If you continue to do what you have always done, you will continue to receive what you have always received. In other words, if you want a new outcome try a new approach. The Seven reversed indicates that a decision needs to be made. Once a course of action is decided on, the natural Wands self-confidence returns, enabling you to resolve the problems at hand.

When I was on an extended six-month trip to London, I took my cards with me in order to earn a little spending money. At first I borrowed a portable card table and set up at various markets, from small local fetes to the Portobello Road markets. After a month a combination of terrible weather and 6 a.m. starts left me tired and almost penniless and I decided to take the advice of the Seven of Wands reversed and adopt a new approach.

I purchased some alternative-lifestyle magazines and sat down with a cup of tea to read them. I telephoned most of the centres in and around London where Tarot readings were conducted, and offered my services. Not one centre required another Tarot reader. I then rang the healing centres that did not offer Tarot readings, hoping to rent a room. I found the perfect centre, not 12 minutes’ walk from my door, and I read there profitably for the remainder of my stay. Had I stuck with the markets I may well have continued to be frustrated and poor. By changing my approach I was able to give good clear readings in comfortable surroundings, regardless of the weather outside.

The reversed Seven suggests it is necessary to return to the lesson of the upright Six of Wands, that of focusing your energies in order to achieve specific goals.

In a relationship layout the reversed Seven can indicate a period when you have to defend your actions or beliefs against a partner who seeks to change you. Feeling under pressure in a relationship, a new approach is required. It’s time to return to the shared vision of the upright Six, by finding a few interests you share.

Eight of Wands

In the Eight of Wands, the wands are neither planted in the ground nor held by anyone. This is symbolic of the free-flowing energy of Fire that has few or no restrictions. It represents the enthusiasm and sheer joy in life you can experience when you fall in love or when you travel.

The Eight indicates that you have your goals in sight and are moving easily towards them. This is seen by the fact that the eight wands are moving through the air freely, without restriction. The wands are passing over water, which suggests overseas travel—an activity that Wands types thoroughly enjoy.

The Eight is a card for a healthy relationship, for travel over water, and for projects reaching a satisfactory conclusion. It indicates that you can achieve your goals with ease. Any obstacles to your plans are minor when the Eight appears in a layout, and goals can be reached without too much effort.

As the Eight is the number for strength (see Major Arcana), the card number eight shows the strength of the suit. In the Eight of Wands you can see the Fire element in its natural state—one of unrestricted, enthusiastic movement.

General meaning

The unrestricted nature of the Eight of Wands reflects a time of few obstacles. It indicates that you are free to pursue your goals directly and with enthusiasm. It also signifies a time when all your struggling pays off, with a period of freedom from difficulties.

The Eight of Wands often appears when you are about to travel overseas. In a career reading, the Eight can show travel related to career, either literally as a pilot or flight attendant, or to find new products, suppliers or markets. This is indicated by the eight wands passing over water.

Relationship meaning

The Eight of Wands is a very positive card to have in a relationship reading. It describes a time when you and your partner can enjoy life together, without the need to struggle through difficult issues. It indicates a time to enjoy one another’s company, without fear or obligation.

An example of this occurred in Karen’s reading. Her partner Michael had recently completed two years of full-time study when she came for a reading, and they were preparing to travel to Venice for a five-week holiday. The Eight suggested that they were going to thoroughly enjoy this trip. (The postcard I received from Venice four weeks later confirmed this.) The Eight represented an opportunity for exploring life, their surroundings and each other.

The Eight also indicates that your relationship is healthy, with enough room for both of you to have your own life and your own friends.

Eight of Wands reversed

When reversed, the Eight of Wands describes the quality of Fire without any Earth to ‘ground it’ or to harness the Fire enthusiasm for a practical result. It represents a situation which does not reach the desired conclusion. Fire (enthusiasm) without Earth (practicality) is seen in plans which don’t reach fulfilment. Enthusiasm alone is not enough.

When a card falls reversed it suggests that you have yet to master the lesson of the previous card. In this case you have yet to master the lesson contained within the Seven of Wands. The reversed Eight signifies delays, as unresolved obstacles (from the Seven) return and slow you down. In returning to the lesson of the Seven (tenacity), you can overcome these obstacles or challenges and clear the way for the upright Eight of Wands.

The reversed Eight can indicate delays in your travel plans or jealousy and arguments in your relationship. In a relationship layout it indicates a stable partnership which requires resolution of a few small issues before it can sparkle again. Perhaps you are both under pressure with job responsibilities or you are overdue for a holiday together and a chance to rediscover each other.

Nine of Wands

The Nine of Wands shows a man of strength, physical power and mental alertness. However, his tendency to fight when presented with problems can limit his ability to be at peace with himself. The continual fighting has developed into a physical and emotional pattern, and he now requires another conflict to feed his hunger for excitement. This hunger has become addictive. While he looks behind and outward for conflict, he is unaware that the source of conflict lies within. If the Nine appears in a layout, it suggests a pattern of conflict in your life. It is not uncommon to project some unwanted or unacceptable part of yourself onto others (this appears in more detail in the Devil card in the Major Arcana). In this way you have a tangible, visible source of antagonism, and not simply a thought, a fear or a feeling. However, if you continue to seek conflict, you will not come to terms with the underlying causes of your problems. You need to spend more time reflecting upon past actions in order to decide which actions were fruitful and which were wasted.

General meaning

The Nine of Wands is a card for weighing up your past failures and successes, and deciding what to commit to in the future. It shows an awareness that not everything you have attempted has been successful, and that the time has come to trim a few incomplete projects from your life.

In one example, Brenda and her husband had finally sold their business, after losing a great deal of money and working 60 hours a week for the past 15 months. She wanted to start another small business, but was naturally very cautious. The Nine of Wands appeared in her layout, reflecting her need to weigh up her past failure before deciding to commit to a new business. The Nine represents reviewing a commitment in light of past actions and consequences.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Nine of Wands describes a cautious attitude to your partner or to relationships generally. Perhaps you have been hurt by your partner, or you have yet to resolve some past relationship, and so cannot truly commit yourself to the present one. This card indicates a need to examine the past and weigh up your commitment to a present relationship.

For example, John was unsure about the direction of his relationship with Greta. He loved her dearly and wanted to marry her, but knew that it would mean his lifestyle would have to change. In particular, he was considering whether to continue his job as a flight attendant. He loved his job, and admitted that it offered an escape from commitment and drudgery, which was how he viewed many relationships. He was weighing up his past commitments and deciding what to focus on in the future. He realised that his commitment to his job was likely to interfere with his relationship with Greta. A deeper commitment to Greta would mean giving up some other commitments.

Nine of Wands reversed

The Nine of Wands reversed shows that a problem is too great for your physical strength and your defences have failed. Attitude governs outcomes to a great degree and, when reversed, the Nine indicates that you are consumed by fear or suspicion.

One of my clients, Sarah, grew up with an alcoholic father who beat her savagely for no apparent reason. At the age of five she learned to run away from him when he turned on her. It was a very good survival mechanism for a child to develop, and she is still alive today because of it. Unfortunately though, she never updated her coping mechanism, and whenever a problem develops in her current relationship she runs away—she literally grabs her purse and runs out the door, and no one can find her until the next day.

At the age of 37, her fears and the way in which she copes with them are preventing her from developing a deeply committed relationship with her husband. She needs to return to the lessons of upright Eight of Wands to experience life flowing along comfortably for a while.

The Nine of Wands reversed shows that you have a tendency to focus more closely upon your failures than your success. You need to be aware that failure can ultimately contribute to success. In other words, if you don’t achieve the results you set out for, you can at least learn what process not to follow in the future.

The Nine reversed also means that you need to seek a different approach. It does not necessarily imply that you should give up fighting; it simply means you should change your approach to a situation.

In a relationship layout the reversed Nine describes caution, fear or suspicion. You may hesitate to offer your commitment now due to unresolved past relationship issues. Perhaps you are more aware of past pain caused by relationships rather than the joy they offered.

Ten of Wands

The Ten of Wands shows a man carrying ten wands. He is weighed down by these wands and they obscure his destination: the house in the distance. In his eagerness to involve himself in so many situations he has become overloaded with commitments and problems. This card shows the result of action without thought.

The Ten of Wands suggests that you want to be free for travel and excitement, but instead find yourself burdened with responsibilities. You created this situation of responsibilities by saying yes to opportunities without realising how much commitment was involved. These situations and problems do not go away when you first tire of them, but rather they seem to demand even more of your time, attention and enthusiasm. The Ten suggests it is time to delegate some of these burdens or responsibilities to other people in a better position to handle them.

The man in the card doesn’t need to carry the wands in a manner that obscures his view. If he looks, he can discover an easier, more effective way. The challenge now is to simplify the situation, which can mean leaving parts of it behind.

General meaning

The Ten of Wands usually accompanies the attitude, ‘If you want a job done properly, do it yourself’. In a business situation, you may find it difficult or impossible to delegate. If you do allow others to do some of the work, you often check the finished product. You feel responsible, and unable to trust that others are also capable of doing the job. It can also describe someone who is self-employed and has to do everything themself to ensure that the job is done.

Emotionally, it can describe feeling responsibility for things for which you cannot possibly be accountable: for example, for the decisions of another person.

In a health reading, this card indicates problems with tension in the back and shoulders. Notice the strain the man endures carrying the ten wands. He reaches his desired goal, but the current struggle is not necessary.

Relationship meaning

When the Ten of Wands appears in a relationship reading it suggests that you are taking full responsibility for the continuing success of your relationship. The Ten can indicate that you feel you are completely to blame if there is a problem or a difficulty in your relationship, and that only your actions will rectify the situation. This is not a realistic approach to a relationship, for there are two or more people involved and you cannot be held responsible for the decisions, actions or beliefs of your partner.

If this card is accompanied by business or money cards in a layout, it can suggest that you are too busy with business interests to pursue a relationship.

The Ten of Wands in a relationship layout can describe a love relationship where one partner meets the other through work or career.

Ten of Wands reversed

The Ten of Wands reversed often means that you are too busy with career issues to deal with your emotional needs. Long working hours, night shifts or weekend work are some of the ways to avoid relationships or to forget about a particular relationship. Success is less likely when the Ten appears reversed.

Wands or Fire types often prefer to take on a new challenge rather than resolve an existing problem. In this case, the burdens have increased in weight and number to the point where the person may collapse physically or emotionally. The Ten reversed indicates that you need to delegate responsibility and resolve your current problems without undertaking anything new.

If you drop these ten wands you have three choices: you can pick them up and hold them differently, you can pick them up and continue as before, or you can leave them behind and find a new direction. If you decide to leave them behind, it is important to become completely aware of how you came to be so burdened in the first place. If you don’t, you are likely to collect another ten wands further down the road and become stuck again. If you understand the process of how you came to be burdened by these ten wands in the first place you can start anew with a different approach.

When writing the original draft of this book, I experienced the message of the reversed Ten. I was writing three books, reading three books, running courses in the psychic sciences and planning further study, all while running a private practice and helping to raise a new baby.

In a relationship layout the reversed Ten can suggest that one partner is consumed with work responsibilities or perhaps a partner uses work to avoid the relationship.

When the Ten appears reversed it is necessary to return to the lesson of the upright Nine of Wands—that of reassessment. This offers you a chance to decide which areas of your life warrant your attention and commitment.

Page of Wands

The Page of Wands indicates the start of a new phase of life or a new project. It is often the physical act of beginning something. The Page represents the airy part of the suit and, as the Suit of Wands represents Fire, the Page of Wands symbolises the airy part of Fire. In everyday terms, it represents thought preceding action; an idea or a plan being formed and then initiated. This card can show that you are dreaming or thinking of the goals you will attain, and the challenges that lie before you. It can also describe the act of getting started on a project, as Wands types don’t like to be inactive.

The Page in the Tarot can describe children, or anyone under 22 years of age. If the Page of Wands represents a child, he is usually fiery, energetic, enthusiastic, positive and often noisy. You know when this child is around the house, as the noise levels soar. This young person enjoys the outdoors, and can be difficult to keep entertained on a rainy day.

News, through a letter, telephone call or an email message can also be symbolised by the appearance of the Page in a layout. However, usually the Page of Wands describes the start of a new project or a new approach to life.

In a question about a new job the Page of Wands suggests that you’ll receive good news. When you start the new position, you’ll probably feel inexperienced with company procedures, just as a page feels inexperienced with life.

General meaning

The Page of Wands indicates that it is time to start something new. It is the act of starting a new project that will lead you in a new direction, or travelling (if other travel cards appear in the layout). Other travel cards include the Ace of Wands, Three or Eight of Wands and the Page of Swords.

When the Page of Wands appears in a layout and you are over 22 years of age, it can describe the act of trying to master something new—a new job or a new approach to a situation. The situation is making you feel young again.

Relationship meaning

The Page of Wands indicates beginning a new relationship, or entering a new stage of an existing one. This new stage will take some physical effort, as Wands types need physical activity to make them feel as though their effort has been worthwhile.

In a relationship reading, the Page of Wands can simply describe the nature of the person involved—for example an enthusiastic, restless young person.

As a description of a relationship, the Page indicates an enthusiastic interaction, filled with outdoor pursuits, requiring plenty of physical stamina.

Page of Wands reversed

The Page of Wands reversed indicates indecision, or too much thought and not enough action. The airy part of the Page wants to know all the details—why, what, when, where and who—which can delay the physical beginning. Whereas the upright Page indicates that you form plans quickly, the reversed Page suggests that you devote too much time to planning and too little time to acting upon plans. Hesitation before action is another meaning for this card. It can also describe an inability to begin new things, or a delay in news that would help you start a new project.

The reversed Page often represents a child, or a person under the age of 22 years. This person lacks some of the fire and enthusiasm of the upright Page, and is perhaps stifled by their surroundings or by their upbringing.

In a relationship reading, the reversed Page can show an unpredictable young person, whose short temper or reduced attention span brings a halt to the relationship before it can reach its full potential. The relationship described by this reversed Page can burn itself out prematurely, due to unchecked passion or enthusiasm, or to one of the partners needing constant challenges.

When the Court cards (King, Queen, Knight and Page) appear reversed you do not revert to the lesson of a previous card. If you decide in a particular reading that a reversed Court card describes a person, it is likely to highlight the negative or immature qualities of that person.

Knight of Wands

The Knight of Wands represents the fiery part of the element of Fire. One glance at this card gives the immediate impression of movement, enthusiasm and vigour. This card signifies action, travel, change and movement for its own sake. Whereas the Page of Wands is seen thinking about future action, the Knight is engrossed in the active pursuit of the desired goal.

The Knight of Wands is one of the cards for someone born under the sign of Sagittarius, as is the Temperance card. Many of the Sagittarian qualities are represented in the Knight of Wands. These include the need for challenge, a love of travel and learning, and the ability to teach. When this card appears together with Temperance in a career reading it suggests a teaching career, or study and learning.

This card describes a man (and occasionally a woman) of a fiery nature. If they are Caucasian they are likely to have blue or grey eyes and red to brown hair. If they aren’t Caucasian, this card can be used to describe the nature of the man instead. He is forthright, positive and eager for action, and generally from 21 to 30 years of age. The Knight can sometimes indicate a person older than this, in which case they are immature. This person has yet to reach the understanding possessed by the King of Wands; that is, it is not the goal but the journey which holds the key to the lesson for Fire. This lesson is usually not understood until many goals have been achieved, many purposes fulfilled, and yet still the yearning remains.

This is encompassed in the theory of precession, which states that ‘the true purpose is always at right angles to the goal, and the attainment of the goal must precede the realisation of the true purpose’. For example, a bee moves from flower to flower collecting nectar for honey; that is its goal. Its true purpose, however, is to pollinate so that the cycle may continue.

The Knight’s travelling cloak displays many salamanders (a symbol for the element of Fire). However, their tails do not meet in their mouths, as they do on the King’s cloak, suggesting incomplete action and unformed plans.

General meaning

The Knight of Wands indicates change, travel and movement. In a question about home environment, it suggests a move to a new home. In a work-related reading, the Knight shows travel related to career, or a move to a new job. It is a card for travel, especially if the Ace, the Three or the Eight of Wands also appears in the layout.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Knight of Wands represents an active, enthusiastic, younger man with a forthright manner and a love of conquest. He prefers honesty over tactfulness, so his communication is direct. He is cheeky, bold and enjoys the pursuit of a potential partner.

The Knight can sometimes describe a relationship formed during a trip or while travelling.

Knight of Wands reversed

The reversed Knight of Wands’ need for continuous conflict dissipates his energy, and he can become immobilised, either physically or emotionally. He is searching but not finding, for he is constantly moving, and action without reflection does not usually lead to understanding. He is likely to repeat mistakes in his haste for movement. This is the time for his thoughts to catch up with his actions, which may result in understanding.

In everyday terms, the Knight reversed indicates delays, disrupted projects and disharmony. He needs to understand that there may be another way to approach a situation. Impatience when confronted with opposition is shown by this card reversed. The Knight reversed finds it difficult to complete those things he has begun, and he needs to form a better plan before moving ahead.

In a relationship reading, the Knight reversed describes a man who is unwilling to give any real commitment to a relationship. As a partner, this man finds commitment very difficult, as he is usually emotionally immature. He generally believes that ‘more is better’. This attitude was demonstrated by one of my clients who had this card reversed. He queried, ‘Why be tied to one woman when there are so many women out there waiting for you?’

Queen of Wands

The Queen of Wands represents the watery part of Fire, and she is the watery approach to the lesson of Fire. Water approaches life through feeling, emotion and intuition. Whereas fiery people actively seek a goal, watery people draw opportunities to them through desire, meditation and patience. This combination of Fire and Water finds the Queen creating in her mind that which she desires, and thereby drawing it to herself. A fiery approach to life is evident in her posture and her steady gaze.

The Queen of Wands represents a woman who is both strong and forthright. She enjoys her independence and encourages those around her to do the same. She is happy to act and to organise, and can overlook the fact that sometimes her help has not been requested.

The sunflower in the card represents her vitality and positive attitude, and the black cat symbolises her intuition, which protects her from harm. The lions on either side of the throne represent her inner strength. The lion is seen again in the Strength card, and both the Strength card and the Queen of Wands are cards for the sign of Leo. Another card for this astrological sign is the Sun.

The Queen of Wands describes a woman, over 21 years of age, with an enthusiastic and outgoing nature. If she is Caucausian her colouring tends towards blue or hazel eyes and red to brown hair. This woman acts upon her feelings, using her inner strength to reach her goals. She is a positive, confident person, with great sales ability and plenty of enthusiasm. She prefers action rather than reflection.

General meaning

The Queen of Wands represents success through inner strength. Believing in what you are doing, and doing what you believe in, can help you realise your goals.

This card describes a woman who will give as good as she gets. If you give her a hard time she will vigorously defend herself, and if you are the victim of injustice she will be equally active on your behalf.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Queen of Wands describes a woman who is honest, enthusiastic and enjoys pursuing her partner. She loves a challenge and can stir up trouble for the sake of excitement when things are running too smoothly. She enjoys sports and exercise, and prefers a partner who enjoys challenges. She needs plenty of freedom to be her own person and, if given this freedom, she possesses an aliveness and energy that none of the other Queens have.

The Queen of Wands, in combination with the Sun and/or Strength, can describe a Leo relationship dilemma. This involves career success at the cost of relationship, or alternatively, relationship success at the cost of a career. It is a see-saw arrangement. The lesson is to find strength within love; to have a close relationship where you neither dominate nor are dominated.

Queen of Wands reversed

In a relationship reading, the Queen of Wands reversed can lose sight of her strength and become overwhelmed by fears and desires. She can be bossy and domineering, seeking out conflict to remind herself that she is alive.

An example of the Queen of Wands reversed occurred one night, many years ago, when I was out with some friends. It was closing time at a hotel in a quiet neighbourhood. The police were standing on the footpath, making sure the hotel patrons departed quietly. My friend and his partner were drunk and arguing loudly. A constable told them to keep the noise down, and she responded by punching him. She was arrested and spent the night in jail. My friend raised her bail money by selling her horse saddle, and she had him arrested for theft within an hour of her release. This drama continued for weeks, and I’m convinced that she loved every minute of it.

The Queen of Wands reversed can often be found giving advice to other people which readily applies to herself, because she denies and suppresses her own faults and projects them onto others. She often leaps into a situation before she has worked out what is really going on. She can fight causes which don’t require her support, and can also be tactless in her dealings with others.

The Queen reversed can also feel that life has given her more than she can hope to overcome, which can lead to self-doubt and loss of the positive, confident nature she has when upright. She then pretends to be confident, becoming jealous of others and competitive with her friends when they are succeeding.

It can also describe a woman whose fires are burning low, resulting in ill health, exhaustion or a loss of direction and a need for support. She needs to recover her strength, courage and hope.

In a relationship question the reversed Queen of Wands can describe a loss of the self-confidence and inner strength required to successfully pursue a love relationship at this time.

King of Wands

The King of Wands depicts a strong person, able to lead and to dominate others through his strength of will. He has a firm belief in himself, as his confidence is based on his first-hand experience. He knows that his method works because it is tried and tested. He is honest, positive and forthright, and willing to take on new challenges. He believes that it is the pursuit and not the outcome that is important, and passes up any challenge which offers a tedious journey.

The King of Wands represents the earthy part of Fire. Earth appreciates that which is practical or tangible, and demands concrete results for all the time and effort involved. This is not to suggest that he is a patient man. He is simply more self-disciplined than the Knight he used to be.

The King describes a man who is enthusiastic, energetic and straightforward. As a general colouring, if he is Caucasian he can have blue eyes and red to brown hair. He is usually over 30 years of age; the exception is when the card signifies someone born under the sign of Aries. Along with the Emperor and the Knight of Swords, the King is a card for Aries. If an Aries person is indicated, they may be younger than 30, or a woman, and still appear in a layout as the King of Wands.

The lesson for Aries is one of self-discipline, and the King is an example of this. He sits awaiting the right opportunity, and when it arrives he is rested and ready to make the most of it. He can be intolerant of those who do not approach life as he does, especially when he encounters weakness or despair, for these are not feelings he readily experiences. He is a man who has mastered the fire within and, through the earthy influence, has produced positive, tangible results. He has not lost the Knight’s love of action, but he has become aware that actions determine results.

The lions shown in this card symbolise the King’s inner strength. The salamanders on his cloak have closed the circle, with their tails reaching their mouths. This is symbolic of his understanding of the purpose and the potential of the element of Fire. When fire (passion) is harnessed, great achievements are possible.

General meaning

The King of Wands represents success through self-discipline and perseverance. Self-discipline enables you to pace yourself, so that you stand a greater chance of having enough time and energy to complete what you begin. This card describes a strong, sometimes dogmatic man. He is often straightforward in talk and in action. He is suited to a career in sales or any goal-oriented position. He is self-motivated, enthusiastic and naturally competitive in sports, games, career and even with relationship partners.

Relationship meaning

This man enjoys a challenge in a relationship and is a good match for the Queen of Wands. He is seen sitting on his throne, waiting for the right woman to join him. Despite being naturally independent, he has matured enough to recognise that good company improves the journey throughout life.

He enjoys the outdoors and requires an active partner who can easily keep up with him. He is neither sentimental nor overly romantic, but has a sense of daring and adventure that promises to keep any relationship interesting.

The King of Wands reversed

When reversed, the King of Wands can signify a period when your physical reserves of energy are low. It indicates a time when your health could require re-balancing through rest and gentle recreation.

The King reversed suggests a man who is emotionally younger than his physical years. Commitment is still a problem for him. He prefers to move on to a new challenge rather than face up to the harsh decisions necessary to resolve a current situation. He may be more tolerant than the upright King of Wands, but he is less disciplined.

Basically, this card can suggest that you are ahead of yourself, ignoring your present opportunities while you focus on future potential. It can also suggest failure due to a lack of self-discipline. You may be throwing all of your energy into the start of a project only to find that you need some of it further down the track.

When Marcelo was retrenched from his job, he took his payout and started his own business. Spending $125 000 of his $140 000 payment to fit out the shop, he soon encountered cash flow problems. In two months he had run out of money and was living on credit cards. In six months he closed the business with huge debts. He had not paced himself for the long haul and was unable to sustain his business. When he asked why his business had failed, the answer was the reversed King of Wands.

Chapter 5

THE STORY OF THE SUIT OF WANDS

The following story links the 14 Wands cards together and illustrates the lesson for the Wands or Fire types. The four Court cards (King, Queen, Knight and Page) represent a family unit: a father, mother and two sons (or a son and a daughter, as the Page lacks a strong gender identity). These four cards represent the four approaches to the lesson of Fire.

While still a child, the Page listens with fascination to his father’s tales of travel, conquest, adventure and achievement. Later, when he has become the Knight, his fascination is replaced with the need to experience these things first hand.

Occasionally the Knight clashes with his father, who attempts to discipline him, while his mother tries to settle their disputes. She is aware that her son is acting in a manner similar to her husband in younger years, yet the King has difficulty understanding this.

The Knight decides to leave home as he feels stifled. He wants to travel, to experience change and to gain some direct experience of life. His realisation that he can no longer stay at home is seen in the Ace.

In the Two, the Knight is looking to the future and weighing up his alternatives. Although it is comfortable to stay at home, it is too predictable.

In the Three, he has decided upon a course of action and is awaiting the right moment to move. He could be scouring the classifieds for a suitable place or telling people around him what he wants in a new home.

In the Four, the Knight makes the move and settles (as well as the Knight of Wands might settle) into a new home environment. There is enjoyment to be seen in this card; the ‘honeymoon’ period is usually a buoyant phase. He revels in sharing a house with people who are equal to him. It is a relief from his memories of home.

In the Five, problems develop because there are five people with five different opinions on how challenges should be tackled. They were each raised differently and are prepared to defend their preferred approaches to life. Some were allowed to be messy around the home while others have been taught to be neat and tidy. Tension mounts.

In the Six, the Knight reminds himself that he might as well be at home with his family, for the situation is becoming the same. Tension and power struggles abound. He makes good use of his own personal power to move house again. This time he arranges an environment where he directs himself and those around him towards a common goal. By gathering like-minded people, he has eliminated much of the tension, and having taken the challenge of leadership he is becoming more like his father every day.

The Seven finds the Knight on top of life’s demands. While staying on top is exhilarating, he finds time to remind himself that there are greater challenges to meet and more important goals to attain. One of these is his original plan to travel. So now he must work two jobs in order to save money. It is difficult, but he feels it will be worthwhile.

In the Eight the Knight sets off travelling, and discovers a sheer love of life and a sense of freedom he has never before experienced. He vows not to stop travelling, and wonders why anyone would stay put in one place when there is all the world to see and enjoy. ‘Why wasn’t I told about this, and how can I keep everybody else from finding out?’ is the attitude he develops. He feels truly alive, and all the efforts in the Seven are now appreciated.

Completing the travel in the Nine, he discovers that he needs another conflict or challenge to feed his hunger for excitement. Sorting through his past failures and successes, he prepares himself for a new and greater challenge. He still looks outward for conflict or challenge, unaware that the source of conflict lies within.

The Knight finds his greater challenge in the Ten, becoming burdened with those things he left behind unresolved. The lesson for this card is the need for organisation, delegation, planning and resolution.

When he masters this lesson, taming or disciplining the fire within, he becomes the King of Wands. In the King, he is shown looking towards his next challenge, yet waiting for his Queen to join him so that they can travel together.

He is now aware that the journey is more important than the outcome, and that the Queen of Wands is exactly the woman to make such a journey interesting and worthwhile.

Later, he will be a hero to his little boy, and will revel in the wide-eyed interest of the innocent Page. He will then clash with his rebellious teenage son, who cannot be told anything and demands to experience it all for himself. Occasionally he will remember that he, too, once believed all the things that his son presently believes, and the memories of his travels will tempt him again.

For a colour reference, see The Story of the Suit of Wands chart in the colour section of the book.

Chapter 6

COURT CARDS

Deciding whether a Court card refers to a person or a situation can be confusing at times, yet with practice the decision becomes automatic. The process involves scanning the layout before determining if any Court cards are people, situations or aspects of your client. If you are uncertain ask the client to select an extra card, which you then place beside the Court card in question. If the additional card is another Court card it confirms that the first Court card represents a person.

Recently, a man in his mid-thirties came to me for a reading, and shyly asked about relationships. After he had selected the cards, he nervously explained that he had never had a relationship before. All four Queens and the Empress appeared in the spread. I told him, ‘You may not have had a relationship up until now, but you will be making up for lost time within the next two years.’

‘Well . . . I have met a lady recently, last week in fact.’

‘The fiery, independent one with blonde hair?’

‘Yes, that’s her. I met her through the introduction agency I’ve just joined.’

He was about to meet many women as a result of joining this agency, and all the Queens appeared to confirm this.

Sometimes I see a reversed Queen of Cups as the client’s emotional inability to forgive or release the past. A reversed King of Cups can also suggest this, regardless of the type of person before you. For instance, a Knight of Pentacles type could still appear as the King of Cups reversed if he was holding on to some past emotional hurt.

A reversed Queen of Swords can signify that the client is being mentally hard on herself, while a reversed Queen of Pentacles can suggest a lack of self-confidence or self-worth. Two Kings or a King and a Knight can describe alternate qualities within the same person. During a reading you, the reader, need to decide which meaning you will attribute to each card.

A woman recently turned up the King of Swords and the Knight of Cups in a layout regarding her husband. After deciding that it was not two different men, I suggested that he was quick-minded and astute in business while being emotionally young and idealistic. She laughed.

‘That’s Dario. He’s a lawyer by day, but at night he is still my personal poet. He leaves poems for me all over the house, and he even had himself delivered to the front door one day, concealed inside an enormous box. When I told him I wanted to have a baby, he sent me two white rabbits every day for 16 days, and on the seventeenth day he arrived home dressed as Eros, with a bottle of champagne and a baby carriage.’

Generally, the four Kings and Knights refer to men, whereas the four Queens describe women. The Pages can represent young men or women. Other clear cards for men in the Major Arcana include the Magician, the Emperor and the Chariot. Major Arcana cards depicting women include the High Priestess, the Empress and, to a lesser degree, the Star. It is very rare that a woman would turn up as a King (perhaps ten times in every 2000 readings).

Chapter 7

ONE-CARD READINGS

The simplest Tarot reading is the one-card cut. This is a good reading for yes/ no questions, or for gaining immediate insight into a problem or situation. The procedure for a one-card cut is as follows:

1. Shuffle the pack briefly, using only those cards with which you are familiar. If you are working your way through this book, then only use the Wands cards until you have studied the other suits.

2. Place the pack face downwards on the table and, while thinking clearly of your question, cut the pack.

3. Turn over the cards in your hand so they are facing upwards. The top card of the pack in your hand is the one you read.

Always limit the number of questions you ask to two or three, or you could find yourself very confused. If you cannot relate the top card of the cut pack to your question, simply reveal the card immediately beneath it for additional information.

Only ask questions you are prepared to receive an answer to, otherwise you could panic yourself unnecessarily. Word your questions carefully. For example, a friend cut my pack of cards one day without my knowledge, and looked very worried all through lunch. I asked him what was wrong, and he replied by asking me what the Lovers card meant. I said that it could represent the beginning of a new relationship or a new stage of an existing one, and that it also referred to decision-making. When I asked him why he was curious, he said he had asked the cards if his partner was involved in a deep relationship. The answer he received from the one-card cut had convinced him that she was. ‘Of course she is having a deep relationship,’ I said to him. ‘She’s hopefully having a deep relationship with you.’

How you word the question can make all the difference. If you wanted to travel to Moscow for a working holiday you can ask a series of questions, for example:

1. Is it wise to travel to Moscow for a working holiday?

2. Is it wise to travel to Moscow for a working holiday within the next six months?

3. Is there a more appropriate place for me to travel to in order to have a working holiday?

4. Is it wise for me to have a working holiday this year?

If the card for question one was the Four of Wands upright, then I would interpret the answer as a yes. If the card for question two was the Three of Wands reversed, I would interpret the answer as a no. If the card for question three was the King of Wands reversed, I would interpret it as a no. If the card for question four was the Ten of Wands upright, then I would see this as a yes, but not without great effort; that is, you may have to work very hard to actually afford the holiday.

Try not to ask the cards emotionally loaded questions, as extreme attachment to a specific outcome can influence the reading. For example, instead of asking the cards if your relationship is going to break up within the next two years, ask them what you can do to ensure that your relationship will be stable in the next two years. The latter question gives you some responsibility for your life and your relationship.

It is a good idea to practise the one-card cut, because the sooner you begin giving simple readings the sooner you will grasp the Tarot.

Chapter 8

REVERSED CARDS

When a card appears reversed (upside down) to the reader, it is read as a reversed meaning. Cards are reversed by the client inverting them during the shuffling process. Clients invert some cards in the shuffling process but remember that no cards are reversed as a client selects cards one by one for the layout.

Some cards will already be upside down before the client picks up the pack, and this is to be expected. As a reader, you wouldn’t bother to ensure that every card is upright between readings. To save time you leave them as your previous client has left them. For example, if you are reading the Tarot at a market or on a readers’ row at a psychic fair, time is limited and clients are usually lined up in front of you.

Reversed cards, both Minor Arcana and Major Arcana, signify that the client has not mastered the lesson of the previous card in its upright position. For example, a reversed Three of Wands suggests delays in your plans. This may signify a need to return to the upright Two of Wands in order to decide what you want. A reversed Ten of Wands can describe being too busy with responsibilities to see the way ahead. This can signify a need to return to the upright Nine of Wands in order to weigh up past failures and successes, so that the client can decide what deserves their commitment and what needs to be removed from their life.

The exceptions are the Aces in the Minor Arcana, and the Court cards (as they are not in numeric order). When an Ace appears reversed, it indicates that the client has yet to master the lesson of the upright Ten of the suit. The Ace of Wands reversed in a question about starting a new relationship could indicate delays; the client has to resolve outstanding issues from a previous relationship (Ten of Wands) before commencing a new relationship.

The Fives are more positive reversed, yet nevertheless suggest a return to the upright Four to enjoy the stability offered in that card. Other positive reversed cards include the Hierophant (the Major Arcana Five) the Devil, the Tower, the Eight of Swords, Nine of Swords and the Ten of Swords.

When Court cards are reversed, you the reader need to decide if this represents an exhausted person as signified by the upright card or general negative qualities of the person.

A reversed King of Wands may show a man who is exhausted by life and overwhelming challenges or it can signify a man who avoids commitment and seeks freedom and a short cut to success at every opportunity.

A reversed Six of Wands can signify disappointment at not achieving your goals, or (a return to the upright Five) scattered energies and a lack of focus resulting in failure of a project.

PART III

Increasing your skills

Chapter 9

THE SUIT OF CUPS

The Suit of Cups represents the element of Water. Water seeks no challenge or conflict, and is content to flow with the changes life brings. Whereas Fire insists upon individuality and separateness, Water understands that on a universal level we are all part of a greater whole, and that any conflict with another person is a reflection of the conflict within ourselves. While Fire symbolises what we do, Water stands for what we are, for although the water in a river changes constantly, the river itself remains constant. Although life changes our appearance, situation, location, and so on, our true self remains intact.

Cups represent love and imagination, passive creativity (although they can represent active creativity when combined with the Wands’ action and the Pentacles’ worldliness), harmony and an approach to life through feelings. The Cups types approach is through love—both giving and receiving.

The Cups Court cards represent the water signs in astrology—Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. Cups cards refer to a type of person or to the creative aspect of a person, and not just an astrological sign.

In general terms, the colouring of Caucasian Cups types is blue or hazel eyes and brown to blonde hair. Obviously not all Cups types will have this colouring, so the cards can refer to a person’s nature as well as their colouring. When a Minor Arcana card accompanies a Court card, it can often give greater detail about the colouring of the person described in the Court card. For example, the Queen of Cups accompanied by the Four of Pentacles (the general colouring for Pentacles types is dark hair and eyes) could describe a woman with blue or hazel eyes and brown to dark hair. She is still sensitive and creative, yet darker in her colouring. If a Wands card accompanies the Queen of Cups, she could have red hair.

The element of Water shows us love as a path to spiritual fulfilment. Both giving and receiving love are important, for gratitude is as meaningful as meeting another’s needs. If you allow others to give, you show them that you value what they offer you. This allows for closeness and trust in friendship or in a relationship.

Negative Cups types often cannot be fulfilled in love, or cannot forgive someone from their past and love again. Our lives revolve around having our need for love satisfied (although this can be replaced with a need for money, power, etc.). When this need is not fulfilled Cups types can become depressed, hardened and cynical, or simply replace this need for love with another more easily satisfied need. A need for chocolate or drugs and alcohol can mask a need for love. If Cups types are unable to fulfil their need for love they may spend their time dreaming wistfully of days gone by. Alternatively, they may seek out stimulation, often reaching the point of overstimulation, with drugs, alcohol, sensuality or gambling. This can stem from the belief that the love or fulfilment they seek comes from outside themselves.

When reversed, the Cups cards can indicate a repressed or distorted attitude to love. In this case, the Cups types fear love is scarce, or that if they give love they will lose what love they have. As a result, power struggles are often found in the relationships of the unbalanced Cups types. They can also become apathetic when life does not give them what they desire and they will escape from real life through fantasies. Like Water, they simply cease flowing with life and stagnate.

In a general sense, a reversed Cups Court card can suggest that a person is nursing old wounds emotionally. It is time for them to forgive, if only to allow a new supply of love to enter their life. Upright Cups cards symbolise receptivity and the understanding that love cannot be seized but simply accepted.

Ace of Cups

The Ace of Cups represents a beginning. When the Ace appears in a layout, it suggests that opportunities currently exist in your life for happiness, love and joy. It can indicate that you are entering a period of emotional fulfilment.

The white dove and the wafer depicted in the card represent the spiritual base that gives meaning to the emotional opportunity. Without this spiritual base, emotional fulfilment cannot be contained within your soul, or within the core of your being, and what can otherwise be lasting fulfilment becomes mere novelty.

The Ace indicates not only a time of emotional fulfilment, but also an opportunity to continue your spiritual development in the most uplifting and rewarding way possible—through love. In the card, the hand extended from the cloud (spirit) holds one cup, which is overflowing into a pool below. This symbolises that the source of emotional fulfilment is the spirit, and when you are connected spiritually you enjoy more love and emotional abundance than you can contain. When this spiritual connection takes place, as it does for each of us many brief times throughout our lives, even small incidents can fill your heart with joy. A sunny day, a single flower, a baby smiling or the sight of a tiny insect making its home inside a curled-up leaf. It is when you lose this connection that you seek challenges in order to find fulfilment.

As I wrote this my son was sitting behind me, on the floor amid his toys. He was too young to speak, but his smile said more than words could ever hope to convey. His smile came straight from his heart, and reached deeply into mine, filling me with joy. I saw before me the purest form of love, and I experienced the Ace of Cups. I knew that this love was pure, and I was moved to tears and made humble with such a simple action as a smile.

General meaning

The Ace of Cups represents an emotional beginning, as opposed to the physical, energetic beginning represented by the Ace of Wands. It suggests that you are open to receive new opportunities. It may be a new relationship or a new stage of an existing relationship: for example, a deeper commitment or the birth of a child. It is a time when you feel emotionally fulfilled.

The Ace depicts a connection to life through feelings. You are likely to experience feelings of fulfilment or contentment with the upright Ace. Perhaps you are commencing a project or a journey that you look forward to with all your heart.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Ace of Cups is a very positive card indeed. It can suggest someone in a relationship with you is helping you to connect with your spiritual purpose. The relationship is reminding you of your spiritual source, and connecting you with that source through love.

The Ace can also indicate a new relationship or a new stage of an existing relationship. You are likely to be spiritually and emotionally fulfilled when this card appears upright in a relationship layout.

Ace of Cups reversed

When reversed, the hand shown in the Ace of Cups cannot contain the cup, and the cup cannot contain its contents. There is no entry from above for the dove, and it cannot bring its spiritual blessing. When the Ace is reversed, the cup’s contents are spilled, indicating emotional and spiritual emptiness.

The Ace reversed suggests unhappiness due to an emotionally disruptive situation. To overcome this you need to develop a sense of inner peace and calm. Without this peace, your emotions may cloud your view of life or restrict you in your growth and development.

The Ace reversed indicates that you have lost your connection with your spiritual purpose. Without this connection you will gradually become more hungry emotionally, creatively and physically. You need to look within for the source of love, and release yourself from the expectations you place on life. This card can indicate that you are out of touch with life and with your spiritual path, and that you do not recognise the opportunities life offers you. Time spent meditating on your true purpose may help you regain a clear perspective.

The Ace reversed can also mean that you are unable to contain the emotional opportunities which life offers you. Perhaps you are making mundane events more important than events offering spiritual value. For example, as I sit here typing I feel pressured. When my eyes meet my little son’s behind me, I can laugh at what I have taken seriously, for I can see spiritual energy in the physical form. He finds joy in the most simple things, whereas I find joy eluding me in my complicated, structured world.

In a relationship question the reversed Ace describes an intermittent connection between partners, suggesting a love which is not sustaining. Perhaps one partner is being emotionally depleted by the needs of the other in this relationship.

If you return to the upright Ten of Cups, a community offers you support, love and an emotional connection to life.

Two of Cups

The Two of Cups describes a partnership, friendship or an intimate relationship. The card shows a man and a woman facing each other, each holding a cup. The sky is clear, and behind the couple is a home nestled between trees. The cups are held at the same height, indicating equality and trust. This can describe an equal love or business relationship, or any close team effort or beneficial partnership.

The man and the woman have a spiritual connection, and this is shown by the two snakes on the rod and the winged lion. The rod symbolises the human spine, and the snakes represent the Ida and Pingular channels of energy which run up the spine from the base chakra (energy centre). This energy centre is located at the base of the spine in men and between the ovaries in women. The winged lion above the couple represents the Crown chakra, which is filled with spiritual and sexual energy. It is this energy that leads you to form relationships which may offer the deeper lesson of love.

By uniting the masculine qualities of action, force and movement with the feminine qualities of emotion, imagination and intuition, the couple learn from each other, and together they are productive and creative.

General meaning

The Two of Cups indicates a spiritual connection. It describes a friendship or a relationship which is productive and creative. When this card appears in a layout it indicates that, by uniting your qualities with another through love, you can produce something which is greater than you could have achieved alone. This can be summed up as the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.

In a business reading, the Two describes an equal partnership which benefits both parties. They each have something to offer and each receives fulfilment for their efforts.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Two of Cups can suggest marriage, or a deep commitment between you and your partner. The deep interaction enables you to soar above your physical bonds, as symbolised by the winged lion. The home in the background of the card suggests that this union is stable.

The Two is a positive card to turn up in a relationship reading, because it describes a relationship where two people give and receive in equal amounts. Commitment, closeness, common interests and sharing are features of this relationship, which is often admired by others.

Two of Cups reversed

When reversed, the Two of Cups describes a relationship of extremes. One day there is love, harmony and accord, as found in the Two upright, but the next day there is tension, discord and a struggle for power. Love gives way to fear when the Two is reversed, and as fear is the opposite of love the two cannot co-exist. It indicates that your relationship can be tremendous or terrible, and switches back and forth between the two. As you fear a loss of control over yourself or your emotions, you seek to control these and, in turn, your partner.

The Two can describe an energy drain within an unequal or unbalanced friendship or relationship. Sometimes the Two reversed suggests the end of a relationship, but this needs to be confirmed by the cards surrounding it. Perhaps one partner is not as committed to the other, or does not care as deeply for the other.

When reversed, the Two can signify a conflict between Fire and Water, resulting in a split between action and emotion. This card highlights a need for balance. One person may be draining the other creatively, emotionally or psychically, leaving no room for spontaneity and growth.

In a business partnership, the Two reversed can describe two people locked in a power struggle, or two partners or co-workers attempting to control each other. For example, the Two reversed appeared in the past position in a general reading for Eva. ‘To be honest I’ve never had a relationship, let alone one which included a power struggle,’ she explained.

To clarify this, I asked her to select another card to go alongside the Two of Cups. She selected the Ten of Wands. I asked her if the power struggle had taken place in a career setting. She thought for a while before replying that she was very happy in her present career, and that there were no power struggles. We seemed to be going nowhere. ‘What about a power struggle in a career prior to this one?’ I asked her.

‘No. Nothing there either,’ she replied.

‘Why did you leave your last job?’

‘My supervisor. She nearly drove me crazy. She was secretly using company money to finance her home purchase, and because I knew about it she prevented me from receiving a promotion for six years.’

‘Did you feel that you deserved a promotion?’

‘Yes, and so did management when they found out that I wanted one.’ (The Ten of Wands indicated that she worked hard while the Two of Cups reversed depicted a power struggle.)

‘Your relationship with your supervisor. Would you consider it to have been a power struggle?’ I persisted.

‘Absolutely,’ she replied.

Three of Cups

The Three of Cups indicates joy, sharing or a celebration. This card often appears during the weeks leading up to Christmas, as most people are celebrating. The three women in this card are celebrating a harvest, and the fruits of their labours lay at their feet. It is a card that indicates triumph over obstacles, or work producing results.

Often the Three of Cups indicates several opportunities appearing at once, and sometimes describes a ‘feast or famine’ approach to opportunities. In other words, when you receive one opportunity, you invariably have another one or two to choose from.

The three women depicted in the Three of Cups are surrounded by ripe fruit, and one even carries a bunch of grapes in her left hand. This indicates effort producing results or work being rewarded. The rewards or the experience is shared when the Three appears in a spread. Groups, gatherings and meetings are suggested by the upright Three.

General meaning

The Three of Cups is a card for a celebration, a reunion or a gathering that brings joy to all who participate. The Three can suggest success shared by three or more people. A client of mine recently asked if her project team would be selected for an upcoming project, and the Three upright confirmed that they were more likely to be successful.

In another example, Janice was unemployed and had spent ten weeks applying unsuccessfully for all types of work. The Three of Cups appeared in her layout, and I explained that she would eventually have several jobs to choose from. Until that time she might relax. She phoned a month later to say that she had been offered three jobs in one week and another the following week.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Three of Cups often suggests happiness and sharing, or a successful reunion. It can also suggest a third person in a particular relationship, which can be a child (a product of the Two of Cups) or, if an adult, it can suggest a choice between several partners.

Once again, the Three can describe a ‘feast or famine’ situation regarding potential partners for a relationship. You may be unable to find one suitable person for a period of time, but when you do, there will probably be two or more potential partners to choose from.

Three of Cups reversed

The Three of Cups reversed signifies unhappiness or disappointment at not gaining the expected results. The cups are overturned now, and cannot contain the love they held in the upright card. The Three reversed can indicate the failure of a friendship or a relationship due to lack of support. Sometimes a third person in a relationship brings instability. A love affair is suggested when the Seven of Swords also appears in the spread, or perhaps a friend or relative interfering.

Short-lived gatherings or fleeting opportunities are indicated by the Three reversed. It can mean a positive, successful but temporary situation. If you accept that it is temporary you can be happy, but if you insist on making this temporary situation permanent, then disappointment is likely.

Many years ago a friend turned up the Ace of Cups in the position representing the present, the Three of Cups reversed in the position representing the energy around the question, and the Knight of Cups in the position representing the answer to her relationship question.

I explained that a gentle and creative man, with blue or hazel eyes and brown to blond hair, was likely to enter her life within four weeks. The cards indicated that, although this would be a tremendous opportunity for spiritual and emotional growth (the Two of Cups was later selected and placed alongside the Ace in the present position), the relationship would be temporary.

‘That’s okay, I don’t mind if it’s short term,’ she said, yet I felt that her words were not mirroring her heart.

Forty-eight hours later, the man I had described came into her life and they fell in love almost immediately. Six weeks later he left her to continue his world tour, as he was an entertainer. She returned to me distraught and exhausted. ‘Why did he have to go?’ she continually asked me.

Once again I explained that it was a successful relationship with a tremendous opportunity for growth—she had loved and laughed and truly enjoyed life during those weeks—and that her present dilemma lay in her lack of acceptance of the temporary nature of this relationship.

In a work environment, the Three reversed can suggest that people are not working together as a team, but instead are competing with one another. This does not allow for the enjoyment seen with the upright Three, as each person is a little wary and guarding their share or territory. In such cases it may be of benefit to single out one like-minded person and accept that you don’t relate well to the rest of the group. It is essentially a return to the upright Two.

Evelyn did this as a child in a family of eight. Amid the chaos, the sibling rivalry and the competition for available attention, Evelyn escaped the conflict with her younger brother James. They often tiptoed away from the family and, squeezing through a gap in the back fence, spent hours playing in the woods nearby.

Four of Cups

The Four of Cups can be a card for apathy or dissatisfaction. The man shown in the card finds no fulfilment in the three cups or opportunities before him, and yet he is offered ample fulfilment if he is prepared to seek within. The Four indicates that you must consolidate your connection with your spiritual purpose to ensure you remain connected to the source of your fulfilment.

The man dreams of a spirit hand extending a cup (the Ace of Cups), and meanwhile his eyes are closed to the physical opportunities before him. The lesson of the Four of Cups is to maintain your connection with spirit, or the fulfilment experienced in the Ace, while also remaining connected to your opportunities in the physical world.

This man sits in the posture of meditation, opening his inner channels and preparing himself to receive. If he is only prepared to search outside himself he will soon become bored with what life offers him, and if he only seeks within he might miss love made visible in his physical opportunities. The three cups before him are a direct reflection of what lies within. If he connects with his inner or spiritual self and his needs within, he is better equipped to connect with people, situations and opportunities outside himself. If he remains disconnected with his spiritual needs, those opportunities outside him will not be able to nourish him.

General meaning

The Four of Cups indicates that you need to open your eyes to your current opportunities before they pass you by. The more fulfilled you are from within, the less you need from outside of yourself. By the same token, the more you meditate or focus within, the more grounding (or stronger connection to the earth) you require to balance yourself.

The Four can signify that you are wondering where the fulfilment is that you previously experienced. Maryanne put it this way: ‘We started out so well, Peter and I. It was heaven. There was such a strong connection between us, but we seem to have lost it along the way.’ In the Ace of Cups your partner is everything to you, whereas in the Four it is time to find an appropriate place for your partner in your life. Your partnership is important, but so too are your friends. Remaining connected to all of the different aspects of your life (both within and outside yourself) is the challenge of the Four of Cups.

When Campbell was recording his second CD he was torn between the type of songs which nourished him and the type of songs which might be most popular. The Four appeared in his reading, reflecting his desire to balance the inner and outer needs.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Four of Cups indicates that you are emotionally dissatisfied due to a lack of inner connection to your spiritual source of energy. It suggests that you have a tendency to withdraw from physical relationships, having spent some time relying too heavily upon others for your fulfilment. The Four represents a time to look within yourself, to reacquaint yourself with your basic needs and desires.

Another meaning for the Four can be the act of finding a place in your life (signified by the three cups) for a new partnership or relationship (the fourth cup). For example, it could mean finding a place in your life for your new partner that does not interfere with your relationship with your children from a previous relationship, or your existing friendships.

Four of Cups reversed

When the Four of Cups is reversed, the person in the card is surrounded by four upturned cups. None of these cups can contain anything, so he needs to look elsewhere for fulfilment. This means that the time for contemplation is past and it is wise now to actively seek out new opportunities.

These new opportunities await you, but not where you are presently focused. You need to go in search of fulfilment by reconnecting yourself to the physical world and the potential it holds. In returning to the lesson of the upright Three of Cups, you can discover the joy of being introduced to opportunities through friends, acquaintances and social group activities.

In a relationship layout the reversed Four of Cups suggests that you are unfulfilled at present. Perhaps it is time to socialise in order to meet someone new or to be nourished by friends and family so that you have something fresh to bring back to your love relationship.

Five of Cups

The Five of Cups shows a person cloaked in black, which signifies sorrow. The head is bowed, as if the person is sorting through or accessing their emotions. In front of this person lies three overturned cups, symbolising lost or wasted opportunities. Before them the river of life flows on regardless. This person is isolated from the castle (emotional stability) by the river (the present stream of events), and while they are looking within and focusing upon their emotions they have limited awareness of current opportunities.

When you experience loss, grief is a natural process, and experiencing grief includes cutting yourself off from the flow of life. For a time, your perception of life is altered and coloured by what you are feeling or experiencing on an inner level. After you accept the loss you will eventually be able to recognise that which still remains.

In time, when the pain or sorrow subsides, the cloaked figure in the Five will gradually become aware of the two cups (or opportunities) still standing, and of the bridge leading across the river and back to stability (in the form of the castle). The two cups can represent support from friends or, as in the Two of Cups, a new relationship coming soon. However, you need to consider other cards in the layout before you can determine a clear meaning.

The cloak in the Five of Cups is reminiscent of the Hermit (a Major Arcana card), who is learning how to be alone without being lonely, and needs to seek within the causes and consequences of past actions.

The Five can represent taking emotional responsibility, for although friends offer support during a period of grief you often cut them off while finding support from within yourself. In doing so you draw your focus within and lose some of your objectivity. When the sense of loss or grief subsides you gradually open up to others again.

General meaning

The Five of Cups describes loss and grief. It can be a card for a separation, or for feeling separate from life. It is a time when stability and familiar patterns or comforting habits seem to elude you. You need to accept this experience of loss or isolation before new opportunities will present themselves. The Five of Cups, as with all the Fives (including the Hierophant), shows narrow-mindedness when upright and broad-mindedness when reversed. In a career question the upright Five can suggest unemployment or low paid work. You may feel alone or isolated in your work or unable to work in a fulfiling career right now.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Five of Cups describes a separation and the act of looking back to the past, comparing what you have now with what you once had. It can represent an inability to release yourself from a past emotional situation.

For example, Justin confided that he had only ever truly been in love once, and that was years ago. He was travelling on a train from Italy to Paris. A blonde woman boarded the train inside the French border and sat opposite him. Their eyes met. ‘I fell in love in moments,’ Justin said wistfully. They were the only two people in the carriage, and they faced one another for the remainder of the journey. They never lost eye contact for more than a moment and yet, in all that time, neither said a word. Justin was so filled with love that his eyes overflowed with tears. Tears ran down her face, too, and still neither spoke. They alighted at the Gare de Lyon in Paris and, on the platform, embraced for one brief moment. When he next noticed his surroundings, he was alone in a crowded carriage, bound for the coast.

The Five of Cups confirmed Justin’s inability to recognise his current opportunities, and showed his focus to be on this past situation. When this card appears in a relationship reading it can indicate that you are focusing your attention on a past relationship rather than concentrating on the present.

Five of Cups reversed

The reversed Five of Cups often describes a time of realisation that opportunities (the two cups and the bridge) exist. It is a time when you allow friends and family to support you, or when you decide to cross the bridge to reach a new, and hopefully deeper, stability.

The reversed Five indicates that it is time for you to let go of the past. The loss in question could have occurred weeks, months or even years ago, but when the Five appears reversed it suggests that you are now ready to release, and to forgive and forget. In returning to the lesson of the upright Four of Cups, you can consolidate your emotional sources of fulfilment. You might discover meditation as a source of emotional fulfilment or simply recognise that, although you have lost one source of love or joy, there are other sources of emotional fulfilment still available to you.

The Five reversed in a relationship reading can also indicate an emotional release from some past situation, which enables you to have a deeper relationship or a deeper commitment to an existing situation.

Six of Cups

The Six of Cups portrays a scene of tenderness and privacy. It has a certain safety and security about it, lending it predictability. The safety and security are treasured, but they come at a price. With reduced risk there is often limited growth.

The Six shows a relationship that involves one person teaching or protecting the other. While this may be done with all good intentions, in shielding your partner from pain you also risk shielding them from direct experience and the opportunity for growth and development. The result is routine. This relationship quickly forms a pattern that does not allow for growth and development beyond the walls of the castle seen in this card.

The Six represents a stage of development within a relationship that is necessary and important. It must be kept in mind, however, that it is one stage, and that sooner or later you or your partner will outgrow this stage as you progress towards the Ten of Cups.

The Six can also represent the past, including memories of childhood, previous relationships or familiar surroundings. In a question concerning travel, it can represent a return to a familiar place.

The figures in this card have adult faces and children’s clothing, which can highlight the need for more personal responsibility within a relationship. They have a clear memory of the past and of the sorrow experienced in the Five, and they act out of fear to create a situation which is safe. This can be through adopting or embracing acceptable roles within a relationship according to society’s dictates. They play ‘mothers and fathers’ in a relationship, and surround themselves with all the appropriate clothes and possessions in the hope that this will bring about fulfilment to replace the loss experienced in the Five. Often in the Six, anything which adds to the security or stability of the situation is collected.

General meaning

The Six of Cups suggests safety, security and familiarity sometimes at the cost of growth. It can indicate stability in your home or family situation. Occasionally it suggests circumstances or people from your past returning to seek resolution. It can also describe a comfortable situation, which gives you time to collect yourself, replenish your energies or simply settle down.

The Six also suggests a work or relationship environment that is filled with habits and patterns. You don’t really need the Tarot to tell you what is going to happen here, for it will be as it has always been.

In a travel reading, the Six is a card for returning home to your birthplace or some place with strong childhood memories. It is a much-needed break from the efforts required in the Five and the Seven of Cups.

In a career reading, the Six can describe a safe, secure but predictable career. It can also show a career involving children, such as teaching, nursing or day care for preschoolers, or a career involving assisting others to feel secure. Any career involving nurturing, including some forms of counselling, massage, aromatherapy or teaching meditation, can be indicated by the Six of Cups. Sometimes, the Six can describe the act of returning to a past career.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Six of Cups depicts a time of safety, security and familiar patterns. It can describe a familiar pattern within your relationship, or with your new choice of partner, ensuring a continuation of previous patterns.

The Six describes a relationship based on good foundations, but restricted by the fears of one or both partners. There is more to be had, for those bold enough to seek it.

Six of Cups reversed

When reversed, the Six of Cups indicates that there is risk and potential growth in a situation. It can represent a move towards a deeper relationship, and a move away from the security (or insecurity) of the past. It can be a time when you examine your inner self and your past in order to release yourself from unrewarding patterns. The reversed Six represents a move away from security towards growth, and a time to shift the basis of security from outside to within. When you are secure within yourself you can truly grow. It is the secure infant who explores the world; an insecure child tends to stay with what is familiar. Adults also display this behaviour.

It can describe the act of leaving a safe situation in search of something more challenging. Perhaps you are leaving home or going on your first overseas trip. You need to return to the upright Five to master the lesson of accepting loss as a natural part of life. With this newfound acceptance, you may find inner confidence and the courage to continue on to the challenge of the Seven, and hopefully onward to the Ten. In returning to the upright Five of Cups you are prepared to risk loss in order to move forward in life. You recognise that sometimes loss is an essential part of change and growth.

Seven of Cups

The Seven of Cups is a card for self-discovery, spiritual growth and learning about your inner needs. It is a reminder that to fully understand yourself you need reflection as well as action. Action without reflection soon becomes repetitive, while reflection without action or experience can become dry and meaningless. Reflecting upon action can help you turn direct experience into knowledge, and move closer to wisdom and understanding.

The Seven represents a time to look within yourself for the source of all love. You can ascertain what your needs really are and find out what will fulfil you emotionally. It can accompany the realisation that no one can love you enough if you do not love yourself. It is an awakening to the fact that fulfilment must come from within. This card indicates your search for your true identity.

The face in the top left cup represents the mask or persona you sometimes put forward to the world. The castle in the cup below represents the home, or home feeling. This is the feeling you take with you from home to home. The next cup contains jewellery, and this signifies material power. It is the power to attract or repel things of a material nature. The fourth cup contains a wreath, which symbolises personal power. It is followed by a cup containing a demon, representing the demons you have to face from time to time, which surface from deep within your subconscious. The snake in the sixth cup represents sexual and creative energy, while the shroud over the seventh cup conceals your true or spiritual identity. When you have come to terms with the first six cups, you are ready to know yourself more deeply through the seventh cup.

General meaning

The Seven of Cups represents a time to identify your inner needs, or to ascertain what you desire from a given situation. It is a time to look within and to realise that your needs cannot always be fulfilled by external means.

In a career reading, the Seven suggests a time to ask yourself whether your current career is leading you where you want to go. Are you fulfilled? If not, why not? What do you want? Only by identifying your needs and desires can you determine how you will meet them.

It also represents a time to go away for a while, or to simply withdraw to a quiet place within yourself, to see what, if anything, is missing in your life.

Relationship meaning

The Seven of Cups indicates a time to withdraw, a time to identify your needs within a relationship, and to observe whether these are being met. It can suggest that you recognise something is missing from within the relationship. Take some time to reflect upon what you really need, as opposed to what you might want. You may identify a need that your partner can lovingly fill for you.

Elaine felt something was missing in her relationship with Shaun, but could not pinpoint exactly what it was. She took a two-week holiday with a girlfriend and visited a health resort. During her stay she booked a massage, and experienced exactly what she felt had been absent in her relationship: touching. She realised that Shaun rarely touched her physically, but instead preferred to reach her through words. Once she had returned home she encouraged Shaun to touch her more often, and eventually both of them completed a massage course.

If Elaine had not spent a little time away from the relationship, she may have taken longer to reach the understanding of what it was that was missing in her life. She could have come to the same realisation through reflection, but still she would have required some time alone. The Seven represents taking that time for yourself.

Seven of Cups reversed

When reversed, the Seven of Cups can signify a determination to make dreams come true. It is a card for turning your dreams into reality. It can also suggest that you are being too material or practical in a situation which calls for inspiration or detachment for spiritual reasons. You may be locked into ‘getting and spending’, ignoring your spiritual needs. In other words, you may be living solely for the pursuit of money and the things it can buy.

Once again, the reversed card indicates that you must return to the previous upright card to master the lesson therein. In this case, you may have to return to the comforts of the Six in order to remind yourself that they too can become tiresome, or that all of those comforts are not enough in themselves to satisfy your needs.

Gregory was raised in Eastern Europe during World War II, and knows the meaning of poverty. He is now a very wealthy man, but his memories are still with him, and all the security in the world is not enough. Having limited security within himself, he cannot trust any tangible security outside. He is trapped within the Six of Cups. After working for so long, he is now beginning to wonder if there is any fulfilment to be found in getting and spending. This ‘getting and spending’ is depicted by the Seven reversed.

In a relationship layout the reversed Seven of Cups can signify the desire to maintain existing habits and patterns to preserve the stability found in the Six of Cups.

Fear of losing a relationship may be prompting you to avoid reassessing your emotional needs. Reassessment now may actually deepen your love relationship.

Eight of cups

In the Eight of Cups there are eight upright cups, and they are placed in a way that allows room for a ninth cup. Someone is seen walking away from the cups towards higher ground. The eight cups represent opportunities for happiness, and can contain activities which have given you happiness in the past.

You know, however, that the time has come to walk away from what you currently have in order to search for something more. This is shown by the space made available for an extra cup. While in the Seven the inner search brings the realisation of who we are and what we need, the Eight shows the physical search taking place. This is the Water element in its truest sense. It is the ability to sense when a situation is ending before it dries up or collapses around you.

The person moving to higher ground suggests progress is being made and perhaps a better perspective will result. This card is similar to the Hermit—to reach the heights possible or to gain a clear perspective you must first put the ordinary routines of life behind you.

The moon moving across the sun suggests two possibilities: that the inner awareness is greater than the outer activity, and that the search will be both night and day; that is, in dreams and in the waking state. The waking state could involve reading books, ongoing therapy, courses or conversations with others.

General meaning

The Eight of Cups indicates that you are outgrowing someone or outgrowing a particular situation. It is the realisation that there is more to life than this, and includes the act of leaving a stable situation (the Six of Cups) to explore the opportunities for fulfilment offered in the Ten of Cups.

There is nothing forcing you out of your current situation beyond your inner need to reach for greater fulfilment. Inner strength is required to complete this challenge successfully. When the Eight appears, you have the reserves of courage and strength. The Eight in the Major Arcana is the Strength card. Each of the Eights in the Tarot deal with strength, in different ways. The cups lesson is through emotional strength.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Eight of Cups describes the act of leaving a relationship, or the act of searching for a deeper commitment within your present relationship. This can be through physically walking away, or through spending time in meditation or with your head in a book, searching. It is a time of acting upon your realisation that this is not enough. It can signify a search for sources of fulfilment outside your love relationship—through courses, hobbies, travel or spiritual studies.

Eight of cups reversed

When reversed, the Eight of Cups can suggest a refusal to leave a situation. You do not want to walk away, even though you realise that it has given you all that it has to offer. You need to be confident that life will offer you a better situation if you search for it.

Another meaning is that the time to leave has not come, yet you feel an urge to leave rather than face up to the situation and pursue it with courage. The reversed Eight of Cups indicates a lack of confidence or inner strength, leading you to abandon a situation which is in fact worthwhile. It shows the act of running away when difficulties arise or when it is time for genuine commitment. Your inner voice, and not your irrational fears, must be heeded when this card falls reversed.

There is often a lack of emotional strength when the eight appears reversed. You are either afraid to commit yourself to a situation which offers you what you need, or you are afraid to leave a situation which cannot fulfil you. It can indicate that there is confusion between your head, your heart and your past emotional patterns.

It is a time to be still, returning to the Seven upright to reflect upon your inner needs before you act. It is important that, when you move, you are confident that you will be acting and not reacting.

In a relationship layout the reversed Eight of Cups describes indecision about whether to commit yourself to a relationship or to walk away in search of something more suitable. On Monday you want to walk away but on Tuesday you have found reasons to stay. By Wednesday evening it’s all over but by Friday afternoon you are talking about buying a home together. It is time to return to the upright Seven so that you can identify your needs. Only then can you determine if your current relationship can meet those needs.

Nine of Cups

In the Nine of Cups there is fulfilment within, and when you have balanced your inner needs you are free once again to return to life’s simple pleasures. Through acceptance of yourself and your situation you are able to devote more time and energy to uncomplicated tasks and the pleasures they offer. It indicates a time to reflect peacefully upon your past achievements.

The Nine shows a man who has a healthy confidence in himself. He realises that your opinion of him is simply that—opinion. He values his own opinion of himself above that of others. The cups are placed high above him, out of easy reach of others. He knows the value of what he has to offer and is unwilling to give it away too easily or hastily.

His arms are folded, protecting his source of love and strength. He is a man who has accomplished much and is proud of himself. Colours surround him, but his clothes lack colour, except for his red hat and socks. His lack of colourful clothing suggests that, although he has found great fulfilment within himself, he has yet to find someone with whom he can share these feelings. He still has more to do before he reaches the Ten. He needs to realise that, although his love is valuable, it is more valuable when shared.

General meaning

The Nine of Cups describes a sense of pride and fulfilment for a job well done. You have a feeling of happiness and joy within, which may come from work, a relationship, or from a sense of spiritual achievement. Your inner needs are being fulfilled now and you can reflect upon the success you have earned. In the Nine there is happiness, contentment and peace, stemming from love of yourself.

Relationship meaning

A great deal of happiness and fulfilment accompanies the Nine of Cups when found in a relationship reading. As you have learned to love yourself and to value your own needs and abilities, you now have a greater chance of finding fulfilment within a relationship, for you are not afraid to say no to situations which offer you less than you need. You do not try to turn an incompatible situation into what you dream it could be, because you realise that there are other opportunities elsewhere. You are aware that if your current or potential partner cannot love or value you, there are others who can give you the love which you deserve.

The Nine suggests a fulfilling relationship in which both partners value what they offer and what they receive.

Nine of Cups reversed

The Nine of Cups reversed indicates that you seek worldly pleasures to supplement the love you are denied or are denying yourself. You are afraid to give your love away for fear your supply will be depleted. Because you do not give any love away, no new love can be received, for there is no room within you for anything new until you give some of what you hold within to others. You become hungry on a deep emotional level, and may endeavour to satisfy this need through worldly activities or the pursuit of worldly goods.

This can result in addictive or compulsive behaviour, including addiction to foods, alcohol, drugs, or anything that might offer temporary relief from your inner hunger. Addictions can often be traced back to a hunger for love. Love must reach you where you need it most before you can be fulfilled.

With the Nine reversed, you can find yourself putting sweetness into your mouth instead of your heart. It can be the act of food replacing love. It is time to return to the lesson of the upright Eight of Cups to acknowledge that you have the strength to walk away from those people or activities which no longer nourish you emotionally or spiritually.

In a relationship layout the reversed Nine of Cups can describe an addictive or compulsive quality to the relationship. It is unlikely to fulfil you now. You may need to return to the upright Eight in order to walk away from a person or situation which doesn’t nourish you. Sometimes this can take the form of giving up a job, a group of friends, alcohol or drugs in order to allow your relationship to nourish you deeply.

Ten of Cups

The Ten of Cups displays the full potential of the suit. Whereas in the Wands we find burdens, in the Cups we find joy, wonder and fulfilment for all involved. The couple stand together, open to the opportunities around them, while the children dance, displaying natural enthusiasm and happiness. The children expect to be happy, and they make the most of every opportunity they have for joy.

The Ten of Cups is a card for joy and sharing. It often describes a group or family situation where all who contribute and cooperate— physically and emotionally—share the benefits. It suggests an awareness of the valuable qualities of a current situation. This is the family relationship that the Six of Cups strives for, with the added benefit of the lessons learned in the Seven, Eight and Nine of Cups.

The Ten is often a card for a relationship in its truest sense. It represents the coming together of two people who move beyond the ‘in love’ (Two of Cups) stage and the sexual stage, and find a lasting bond in friendship as well as love. They have not lost their love for one another, nor their desires, but have developed greater levels of communication and commitment to complement those early stages.

General meaning

The Ten of Cups describes a family or group situation that benefits each person involved. There is commitment to the group or the cause, and harmony resulting from a bit of give and take. It suggests contentment within a family situation, or in a work environment which includes teamwork and sharing.

The Ten indicates a successful family situation or gathering where each person involved participates fully and enjoys a sense of belonging to the group.

Relationship meaning

The Ten of Cups is a very positive card to find in a relationship reading. It suggests fulfilment found through a committed and growing relationship. Family is suggested by the children appearing in this card, or a relationship which welcomes children.

This couple are committed to one another, and yet each person has a certain freedom to pursue their separate interests and friendships. Without the fear-based closeness of the Six of Cups, this couple can bring freshness and new energy back to the relationship from their own pursuits. Each person spends time with friends, or alone with hobbies, returning with fresh ideas, concepts and stories of adventures to share with the other.

A stable, mature relationship is shown by the Ten. It can suggest marriage if it appears in a layout including the Six of Wands, the Justice card or the Lovers.

Ten of Cups reversed

When the Ten of Cups appears reversed, it indicates that you are disconnected from the people around you. A family or group environment does not include you, probably because you choose to remain aloof. You may not be aware of, or appreciate, the happiness life offers you.

The Ten reversed describes a group or family situation which has been harmonious in the past, but currently involves people competing with each other rather than working together. Once again, the reversed meaning suggests that you need to return to the previous upright card to master the lesson therein. In this case, a return to the Nine of Cups offers you the chance to learn to love yourself and to discover the source of your own happiness within. It also enables you to discover what you can bring to the group and how to value this contribution.

In a relationship reading, the Ten reversed describes a relationship which lacks love or harmony. The longer you remain in this relationship without changing it, the more miserable you may become. Your choice is whether to change the relationship, make the most of it (through changing yourself) or leave it behind.

In a career reading, the Ten can describe a group of people who are not working together as a team. There is limited joy shared in any success as each person feels independent of the group. This card reversed in a career layout indicates disharmony and possible retrenchments. A group that once worked together now finds insecurity divides it, allowing personal needs and ambitions to dominate.

Page of Cups

The Page of Cups represents the airy part of Water: an approach to emotions through reflection, dreaming or simply contemplating. ‘Thinking about feelings’, is one simple way to describe this Page.

The Page of Cups suggests that a relationship or partnership is being offered to you. This includes business partnerships, and can also indicate an opportunity you are being offered. The Page can also signify news, either through a letter or telephone call, or through hearing your inner voice and heeding its message.

The Pages in the Tarot refer to study and, as the Suit of Cups deals with emotions and intuition, this Page indicates psychic studies or psychic development through meditation, or any other similarly passive approach.

This card represents the astrological sign of Pisces, along with the High Priestess and, to a lesser degree, the other Cups Court cards. As a card to describe a person, the Page is someone under 22 years of age, with a quiet and gentle nature, who tends to be more thoughtful than active. When describing a child, the Page indicates a reflective, creative person. This is the small child who gazes in wonder at a spider’s web which is filled with raindrops after a storm.

General meaning

The Page of Cups can represent the offer of a new relationship or business partnership. The offer is an opportunity for emotional fulfilment; that is, a business partnership involving work that you enjoy, or creative work.

When appearing alongside the High Priestess card, the Page of Cups indicates a Piscean person around you, or yourself if you are Piscean. Psychic or spiritual development is likely to occur if the Page of Cups appears beside the High Priestess in a layout and there are no Pisceans around you.

Tarot Chart of the Minor Arcana

The Story of the Suit of Wands

The following story illustrates the lesson for the Wands or Fire types. The four Court cards (King, Queen, Knight and Page) represent a family unit: a father, mother a son and a daughter.

While still a child, the Page listens with fascination to his father’s tales of travel, conquest, adventure and achievement. Later, when he has become the Knight, his fascination is replaced with the need to experience these things first hand. Occasionally the Knight clashes with his father, who attempts to discipline him, while his mother tries to settle their disputes. She is aware that her son is acting in a manner similar to her husband in younger years, yet the King has difficulty understanding this.

The Knight decides to leave home as he feels stifled. He wants to travel, to experience change and to gain some direct experience of life. His realisation that he can no longer stay at home is seen in the Ace.

In the Two, the Knight is looking to the future and weighing up his alternatives. Although it is comfortable to stay at home, it is too predictable.

In the Three, he has decided upon a course of action and is awaiting the right moment to move. He could be scouring the classifieds for a suitable place or telling people around him what he wants in a new home.

In the Four, the Knight makes the move and settles briefly into a new home environment. There is enjoyment to be seen in this card; the ‘honeymoon’ period is usually a buoyant phase. He revels in sharing a house with people who are equal to him. It is a relief from his memories of home.

In the Five, problems develop because there are five people with five different opinions on how challenges should be tackled. They were each raised differently and are prepared to defend their preferred approach to life. Some were allowed to be messy around the home while others have been taught to be neat and tidy. Tension mounts.

In the Six, the Knight reminds himself that he might as well be at home with his family, for the situation is becoming the same. Tension and power struggles abound. He makes good use of his own personal power to move house again. By gathering like-minded people, he has eliminated much of the tension, and having taken the challenge of leadership he is becoming more like his father, the King.

The Seven, finds the Knight on top of life’s demands. While controlling these demands is exhilarating, he remembers that there are greater challenges to meet and more important goals to attain, including his original plan to travel. Now he elects to work two jobs in order to save money. It is difficult, but he believes it will be worthwhile.

In the Eight, the Knight sets off travelling, and discovers a love of life and a sense of freedom he hasn’t experienced. He vows not to settle down again. He wonders why anyone would stay put in one place when there is all the world to see and enjoy. He feels truly alive, and all the efforts in the Seven are now appreciated.

Completing this travel in the Nine, the Knight discovers that he needs another conflict or challenge to feed his hunger for excitement. Reflecting upon his past failures and successes, he prepares himself for a new and greater challenge. He still looks outward, unaware that the source of conflict lies within.

The Knight finds his greatest challenge in the Ten, becoming burdened with those things he left behind, unresolved. The lesson for the Ten is the need for organisation, delegation, planning and resolution. When he masters this lesson, taming or disciplining the fire within, he becomes the King of Wands. The King looks towards his next challenge, waiting for his Queen to join him so that they can travel together.

He is now aware that the journey is more important than the outcome, and that the Queen of Wands is exactly the woman to make such a journey interesting and worthwhile.

The Story of the Suit of Cups

The four Court cards represent a family. A father, mother, son and a daughter. It is a harmonious family, each concerned with the emotional wellbeing of the others. However, the young boy is growing up now, and has emotional needs which his parents and his sister cannot fill for him.

In the Ace, the young man decides to find himself, although he does not know this consciously, and he has fallen in love.

In the Two, he discovers his first equal relationship. Almost all of his past relationships were unequal. In his relationship with his parents they had more control, while his relationship with his younger sister allowed him more control. In the Two he is learning how to transfer some of his love for his mother, to his lover. His mother offers him strength, wisdom, maturity and security, and yet with an equal, close, love relationship he can reach new levels of intimacy through a sexual relationship.

In the Three, he decides that if a one-to-one relationship is this good, why not add a third partner to the situation? Alternately, a third person approaches him for a relationship, as he appears happy, confident and positive. There is a great deal of energy at first, and all is well.

Until the Four. In the Four, he realises that this situation is turning out to be something different from what he expected. He is missing something, and longs for the perfect union he experienced in the Two. Now he has three opportunities before him, but closes his eyes to them, preferring instead to dream of the perfect relationship, perhaps from his past. As he sits dreaming, his opportunities move on, and he is not emotionally present to make the most of them.

In the Five, he becomes aware of his separateness. He stands looking at the opportunities lost, and while he mourns, he is unaware of the opportunities behind him and the path leading back to emotional stability.

In the Six, his fear of others coming between him and his partner is the cause of his need for a safe, secure relationship. This couple do almost everything together, often replaying their parental roles in their relationship. They pretend to be innocent once again. Their relationship is safe, secure and predictable.

In the Seven, he begins to realise that happiness cannot be found through someone else, and that perhaps this relationship is not the answer to his emotional needs. He starts upon an inward journey and discovers that something is indeed missing from his present relationship. He examines his needs closely and begins to understand that he does not love himself completely.

In the Eight, he walks away from his relationship, either physically or emotionally, in search of a love that is deeper than he has experienced before. He knows that he must be alone in his search, realising that unless others have been through this search they won’t truly understand its significance.

In the Nine, he finds this love of himself, or self-worth, and discovers it was always with him, deep within his being. It manifests as an unshakeable knowledge of his own spiritual and emotional worth. He no longer needs to rely on other people’s opinions of him to boost his opinion of himself. He feels fulfilled. He is bursting with inner contentment and feels the need to share this happiness with someone special.

In the Ten, he is now ready, as the King of Cups, for a loving, sharing relationship like the one he had in the Two of Cups. It will also have the security of the Six, the understanding gained in the Seven, the strength discovered in the Eight, the self-love of the Nine and the emotional maturity of the King.

The Three of Cups presents itself once more. In this instance it is a child: a Page of Cups, Wands, Swords or Pentacles. There is room in this mature relationship for children to grow with love and security. The path of the Page to the Queen is similar to the story above, except that she will mature from the Page directly to being the Queen.

The Story of the Suit of Swords

The King, Queen, Knight and Page are a family: father, mother, son and daughter. It is Christmas, and the King presents his son (the Knight) with his first sword. The Queen, aware of the boy’s limited capability and of the sword’s potential, insists that the Knight receive some lessons in the basics of swordsmanship.

The Knight is impatient to try out his new sword, and rushes off to have a good time with it before his lessons commence the next day. In the Ten, the Knight is killed in battle by someone more skilful than himself.

In the Nine, his sister, the Page, is grieving. She is having to face the fact that something terrible has occurred in her life. She cannot understand why her brother is dead, who was at fault, or why he was given a sword in the first place. Her bad dreams help her to make sense of this tragedy.

In the Eight, she feels unable to avenge her brother’s death, having even less experience with a sword than he did. So in effect she is captured and bound by her grief and by her beliefs about life. She feels powerless to do anything about his death and about her pain.

In the Seven, fearing confrontation, she fulfils her desires secretly. She gets her way by manipulating the world while keeping it at a distance, ensuring that she won’t follow in her brother’s footsteps. She is afraid to reveal herself or show her vulnerability.

In the Six, time heals her wounds and the terror subsides, even if it has not been fully dealt with. She passes through the turbulent emotional times to more balanced situations. She starts to see that life is all right and that her turmoil comes from within.

In the Five, she tries to impose her narrow views of life upon her family and friends. There are arguments and tension is rife. She wins, or at least she gets her way, although she loses their trust and respect in the process.

In the Four, she reflects upon her actions and the resulting isolation from her family. This leads her to examine her beliefs about life. As she does this, grief resurfaces from her past, and in the Three, she experiences the pain she could not accept regarding the death of her brother. She realises that by avoiding risk she has also avoided growth.

In the Two, she comes to understand that thoughts are powerful, and that what you believe about life or yourself will often come true, or to put it in her terms: ‘If you live by the sword, you are likely to die by the sword.’

In the Ace, the sword is finally upright, displaying its double edge. It pierces the illusion of reality to reveal the causes behind events and the thoughts and attitudes which shape our lives.

She grasps the sword and, in doing so, becomes the Queen. She holds her sword firmly and uses it with care. She seeks a partner who is disciplined in thought and clear in his understanding of life. In time, when her own young Knight is old enough, her partner will give him a sword and she will insist that some lessons accompany the gift, knowing the young man’s impatience.

This story is in reversed order to the other suits because the Ace contains the only perfectly upright sword in these 10 cards. The Queen contains the only other absolutely vertical sword, confirming her clarity of thought. Sometimes in Tarot courses a reversed Queen of Swords will ask for a story about the reversed cards. This confirms an interest in strife.

The Story of the Suit of Pentacles

The four Pentacle Court cards represent a family: a father, mother, son and daughter. As the family is materially comfortable, the King puts aside some money for his children. He gives them a portion of their inheritance when they turn 18, 25 and then 30. As the Page matures, he (or she) dreams of how the money will have grown by the time he receives it.

In the Ace, the first amount of money is handed to the Knight. He is a serious Knight and plans to use this money wisely, ensuring a solid return for his investment.

In the Two, he is deciding what to do with his money; whether to spend it or invest it.

In the Three, he invests some of it in his education. He trains in a profession.

In the Four, he enjoys the income from his profession as business grows.

Business continues to expand in the Five, so much so that he now has limited time for himself, his hobbies and his life. He feels tired and empty as he works.

In the Six, he employs some staff and effectively buys back his own time. He now manages this business venture. This requires an innate sense of patience and responsibility.

In the Seven, he realises that to be truly successful he must learn more about staff management and business procedures so that he can finetune his skills.

In the Eight, he is studying again. He adds new skills to his existing knowledge so that he can enjoy even greater success.

This greater success is actualised in the Nine. He experiences great achievement and he is justly proud of his efforts.

In the Ten, he sits back while other people do the work. His hair is grey and he is content to observe from a comfortable distance as he tends to the animals. He has become the King of Pentacles. His Queen is not far away, probably outside enjoying the garden. A story which illustrates the Suit of Pentacles is a real-life example. Pauline wanted to have her own business, so when she was retrenched from a job in a large hotel she decided to rent a stall at a local market. It was a humble beginning, and she invested a few hundred dollars in some wholesale glassware. She also erected a small clothes rack that displayed her first attempts at sewing: simple tops and skirts in bright colours with a one-size-fits-all philosophy. Her first day at the market was the Ace.

It only took a few weeks before she was faced with a decision about what she was going to sell. Glassware and clothing were not really a profitable mix for a stall, so she was faced with the Two, and a decision about her long-term direction. She decided on clothing, and spent the following months mastering her new sewing machine.

The Three, found her learning her trade. During this time she paired up with another stall holder, Kate, and together they created quite a range of shirts, dresses, trousers and skirts.

The Four, found them very busy during the spring and summer months, and they prospered. As Christmas approached, they sold 20 per cent more stock each week than in the previous one.

The Five, found them quarrelling with each other. They were tired, run-down and fed up with spending all day leaning over a cutting table or at the sewing machine. Their social lives were non-existent, and the money they had enjoyed in the Four didn’t seem to matter any more. It was only after Kate spent one Saturday hurling abuse at most of their potential customers that Pauline sat down with her and they talked.

They were both unhappy, but felt that their business was worth the effort if only they could have a little more time for themselves: time to swim in the blue-green ocean that glistened outside Kate’s window, time with their partners, but most of all, time for themselves. They realised that to have this time, they would have to buy it. They decided to buy back their own time by employing someone to do some of the work for them.

Phyllis owned an overlocker, which could perform tasks in a third of the time it had taken Pauline and Kate, so the Six, found them cutting out their patterns in the morning and delivering the fabric to Phyllis to sew. That summer they discovered the beach again.

Having this extra time was fun, but soon their thoughts turned to how they could improve their range, the quality of the clothes and find better fabrics. The Seven, found them planning their future in this industry.

Pauline completed a night course in managing a small business, and Kate spent time with Phyllis, learning how certain patterns were simpler to put together and therefore cheaper. She also learned that one size does not usually fit all, so a variety of sizes and shapes were introduced. This is the Eight.

Their business continued to grow and several clothing boutique owners approached them about stocking their clothes, an opportunity they were happy to accept. Now they could enjoy the income, the beach and the lifestyle they had dreamed of when they first set out on this journey. They were enjoying the Nine.

As they became more organised, it occurred to them that there were more women like Phyllis, and that several people could be employed to cut out, sew and add buttons to the garments while they spent their time organising new markets. The Ten, found them as coordinators rather than workers.

However, sometimes they complained that they did not have the same feel for the business as they once did, so they decided they would create original pieces to order, while their real income took care of itself. They had reached the Queen of Pentacles.

The Story of the Major Arcana

The Magician Coming to grips with the physical body, the child learns that even goals that appear impossible to achieve can be realised in the right circumstances. The appropriate place, time, motive and tools enable great achievements. Power flows through him, but he is not the source of this power.

The High Priestess In between all this activity the child rests, and in sleep (in dreams) another part of the child is developing. The intuitive, passive and receptive child is also growing.

The Empress Now the mother features, and she is loving, caring and practical in the support she gives the child. She is open to receiving the child’s passions and is receptive when the child expresses himself.

The Emperor The father is guiding the child in the ways of the world and teaching this child what other people outside the family will one day expect of him. The child sometimes views the father’s influence as restrictive, as he does not enjoy learning about physical limitation and how to finish what he begins. At this stage he prefers the mother for the freedom of expression she allows.

The Hierophant While the Empress and the Emperor (or mother and father) take care of the child’s physical and emotional needs, they leave room for the Hierophant to take care of his spiritual discipline and learning. While the Emperor shows the child how he fits into the community, the Hierophant tries to show the child how he fits into the universe. The Hierophant might take the form of spiritual or religious groups, or books on spirituality.

The Lovers As the child grows and develops with the physical and emotional guidance of his parents, and the spiritual guidance of the Hierophant, he reaches puberty and experiences the sexual urge. This drives the young man to form a different sort of relationship from his previous relationships, and he begins to question the people who have taught him. He experiences his first equal loving relationship and transfers some of his love for his parents to his new partner.

The Chariot His emotions are alternately turbulent and calm, and he finds it necessary to discipline them so that they don’t overpower him. He subjects the opposing forces of his mind and his emotions to his will.

Strength He soon becomes tired of subjecting everything to his will, along with the resulting lack of spontaneity, and finds the strength within to allow life to take him where it will emotionally, in order to find himself. He realises that he is not the centre of the universe. He also acknowledges the beast within him, and in doing so has access to the energy the beast receives. Strength flows through him, but he is not the source of the strength.

The Hermit Having accepted the beast within he can now turn his attention to his mind, and for this he needs peace and quiet. In peaceful surrounds he begins his conscious psychic development by studying the abundant symbols that his mind offers him. In time, he discovers how to be alone without being lonely. He discovers his inner voice.

The Wheel of Fortune As the boy becomes a man he comprehends the seasons of time, and realises that all ideas, goals and possibilities have a place and a time. He becomes aware of the opposing forces of nature: Fire, Earth, Air and Water. He is aware of how little he knows, and he begins to sense the difference between universal time and linear or man-made (arbitrary) time.

The Story of the Major Arcana

Justice Realising how he had previously judged events without examining their causes he now develops an understanding of why events occur and that life offers him lessons within challenges. He accepts cause and effect. He understands universal justice and that universal laws cannot be traversed like man-made laws.

The Hanged Man As the tree stands patiently through winter while the earth replenishes itself in preparation for spring and summer, so the young man sits and patiently awaits what life will bring next. All things must pass. It is time for him to reflect on past actions and experiences in order to realise what is no longer necessary in his life.

Death The old must eventually move aside to make way for the new. The man finds that he must say goodbye to parts of himself. This might take the form of saying goodbye to friends, a home or work environment, or even a partner. All these are only symptoms of the change that occurs within. He remembers that there is strength in surrender.

Temperance Balance and harmony are restored after the change, and the man is left with a deeper awareness of his purpose. He learns the appropriate use of action: knowing when to move and when to wait. He realises that harmony within leads to harmony around him in the physical world.

The Devil He faces the beast within once again, only this time he must rise above its desire for material possessions and control over others. His soul reminds him that there is more to life than his senses indicate.

The Tower He is reluctant to give up his comfortable material existence, so life must make it impossible for him to exist in current circumstances and encourage him to move on. Sudden change occurs, and he must leave behind those circumstances he once felt were safe and secure.

The Star The new environment and the relinquishing of old habits and possessions combine to remind him to live in the ‘here and now’. This spontaneity brings an awareness of his creative abilities. He is even more aware of his purpose; to channel unconscious energy (the pool of water) into a conscious form (the land). He develops a hopeful outlook on life as well as faith in life’s possibilities.

The Moon Once more he is required to look within, this time to face his own unconscious fears and demons. His imagination delivers both creative and frightening things to his conscious mind, and he must go deeper within to face the beast or demons. He finds that he must take this journey through his subconscious to the unconscious by moonlight (at night alone or through dreams), and his fears have the faces of animals.

The Sun Having faced his fears in the Moon he finds an approach to life which has the simplicity of a child with the depth of an adult. He is free to express himself, and he experiences a happiness both on the surface and within. He has access to his complete imagination, which he can draw on for creative purposes, having explored his deeper imagination in the Moon.

Judgement As the final years of his life draw close the mature man must heed a call from within to a higher existence. He begins to accept that everything in the universe is interconnected. He can now discard old beliefs for a deeper understanding, and in doing so develops a deeper understanding of life. He realises that he is the sum total of his past actions and beliefs, and that these have created the future that now awaits him.

The World Now the aged man understands that everything in the universe is in constant movement, either increasing or decreasing. Having balanced the Fire, Water, Air and Earth within himself, he can now enjoy lasting success. He has mastered the lessons life held for him, and his reward is inner peace and fulfilment.

The Fool A child is born, and as the soul enters the physical world it chooses to forget much of the universal knowledge it has accumulated, in order to learn its lesson this lifetime. The child enters the world with innocence and with love. Soon she will replace innocence with knowledge and understanding, and, sadly, chances are that she will probably replace some of her love with fear. Her task ahead is to meet all the challenges with the courage that comes from love—both self-love and a love of others. Life will offer this child many opportunities to learn her lessons and will reward her for each step taken.

Colouring of the Court Cards

Arthur Waite suggested that the colouring of each suit varied, but remember that the personality traits are more important than the colour of hair and eyes. Waite used the four suits primarily to describe the European peoples. His colour suggestion is as follows.

These colourings are limited because in one family of dark-haired children, you might find Cups, Wands, Swords and Pentacles children with identical colouring. This is why it is more accurate to describe the personality traits of the court cards so that clients can identify friends and family members from your description.

This may not be enough when predicting a love relationship partner, as clients often want to know what physical features to look out for when searching for a mate. Don’t allow yourself to feel pressured into giving physical descriptions if you are unsure.

If a client presses me for a physical description, I usually point out that his or her hair is only a particular colour on the day I glimpse it. This is before you add the possibility of coloured contact lenses, tanning salons, spray on tans and cosmetic surgery.

Because Asian people tend to be one colouring (dark hair and eyes) this doesn’t automatically make all Asian people Swords or Pentacles types. Scandinavian people tend towards the blonde hair with blue eyes, but this doesn’t make them all Cups people. Think of the stereotypical Swiss banker or financial advisor, more likely to be a Swords or Pentacles person despite the colouring. A friend with nine brothers and sisters has siblings whose looks range from pale skin, blonde hair and blue eyes to olive skin and black hair. As a musician, she describes it as themes and variations.

I’ve noticed that if the Queen of Wands colours her hair, it is more likely to be red than any other colour. Visiting a local Japanese takeaway restaurant with my seven year old son, the woman serving us had bright red hair.

‘I thought that they all had black hair,’ he whispered when she left the table.

‘They do. She probably dyed her hair because she likes red hair,’ I replied.

He brightened at the thought and said, ‘I’m going to dye my hair blue in the school holidays. Mummy said I can.’ As Mummy is a conservative Queen of Pentacles, I very much doubted that was likely to occur.

Colour Meanings in the Tarot

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Page of Cups can indicate an offer of a new relationship or a new stage of an existing one. After a separation, this Page can suggest that a reunion may occur, for it describes someone offering you a worthwhile friendship or relationship. In a question about a reunion with a friend or partner, this card is a positive indication that it will take place.

Page of cups reversed

The Page of Cups reversed indicates a disappointment within a partnership or relationship, or the dissolving of a partnership. As the Pages refer to news, the reversed Page can suggest disappointing news, or news that is delayed. Sometimes it describes the inability to ground yourself or connect with your current circumstances until you receive the information or news you require for your next step. It can be a time when a decision is eagerly awaited before you know where you stand in a situation; for example, you may be waiting for confirmation of a job offer before resigning from your current job. The Page reversed indicates uncertainty regarding the offer, or delayed confirmation of the offer.

The Page reversed can also be a time when you allow your imagination to prevent you from reflecting, or from looking within. It describes an inconsistent or ungrounded offer. Perhaps someone is offering you something which they are in no position to give, or the person making this offer is unsure about it.

The Page of Cups reversed can describe psychic disturbance through visions or dreams, requiring grounding to stabilise the situation. Regular walks, gardening, vigorous exercise or spending time with nature can help you to return to a stable position psychically. If great psychic development occurs without proper grounding you can risk emotional and psychic instability. A tall tree with shallow roots is likely to be uprooted by the first strong wind.

Knight of Cups

The Knight of Cups, as part of his development, is learning to blend the elements of Fire and Water. His task involves directing his imagination (Water) into some real challenge (Fire). It is the action which follows inspiration, or even inspiration as a result of action. This Knight is learning the difference between imagination and fantasy: the gap between dreams for their own purpose or to escape from reality, and ideas which produce action and growth, leading to a deeper understanding of life.

His horse is more passive than the horse on the Knight of Wands. It is slowed down by his imagination, his need to ‘feel out’ a situation and to understand his emotions. The wings on his helmet and his boots symbolise his intuition and an imagination which enables him to rise above any obstacles that might confront him. His attention is divided between the goal ahead of him and the cup in his hand. The need for action and the call to be still. One path will lead him to become the King of Wands, while the other will lead him to be the King of Cups.

This Knight is often enthusiastic on the surface, while being soft and sensitive underneath. Relationships, emotions and creative pursuits interest him, and he can often be found taking his partner’s needs into account when making decisions. When describing a person, this card depicts a man between 21 and 30 years of age who possesses a combination of enthusiasm and emotional sensitivity.

General meaning

The Knight of Cups can suggest an offer from someone—for example, a business offer or opportunity. It could be a man in his twenties or, if older in years, in his twenties emotionally, making you an offer. It may be an emotional offer or something more practical.

The Knight also indicates a time to decide whether it is wise to act or to wait, to allow situations to fully develop or to seek out new opportunities. Perhaps it is a time to follow your heart (symbolised by the river) in order to find fulfilment.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Knight of Cups describes an offer, usually from an enthusiastic yet sensitive man in his twenties. He tends to be soft-hearted, tender and caring in his approach to relationships and to friendships. He has an innate need for closeness and intimacy in a relationship, and seeks a partner with whom he can share his dreams.

He is not as emotionally mature as he will be and he senses this, so he seeks a partner who might assist him to mature in this way. He wants someone who might help him see when his dreams are worth following and when they are simply fantasies.

Knight of Cups reversed

When describing a person, the reversed Knight of Cups describes a man who avoids the increased demands of life, and who is likely to promise what he cannot deliver. He is torn between the Fire and Water within, and starts projects only to drift off in another direction and then romanticise the past and its possibilities. He often finds commitment difficult due to immaturity, or because of past commitments he has yet to fulfil or release.

He is likely to confuse love with lust or infatuation, and can be lazy and indolent, preferring his fantasies to reality. In some cases, the Knight reversed describes a person who cannot commit himself emotionally due to some unresolved sadness. He may constantly compare his present situation with the past, and may ask for more than he can give in return.

In everyday terms, the Knight reversed suggests emotional disappointment. It also indicates that an offer or an opportunity will not materialise. The Knight reversed is acting like the Page, dreaming about endless possibilities while unable to determine what is possible and what is unrealistic.

Chad is an artist—more an artist in temperament than in productivity, for he has produced and sold very little in the ten years I have regularly read for him. His partner, a Queen of Cups, supports him and indulges his fantasy of being an artist. He once explained that all he really needed was a sponsor, complete with a cheque book, who would arrive every now and then to view his work and supply some much-needed funds. Such sponsors are the stuff of fairytales, so he has done very well with what he has: a generous partner. She sponsors him in her way, and he remains convinced that one day the world will beat a path to his door in search of a talent unequalled.

Very few people are blessed with sufficient genius to have no living equal in their field, but many have the ability to imagine that they have such talent. It is understandable that a child or a young man may hold this dream for a while on the way to maturity, but a man approaching 45 has had plenty of time to realise that reality does not match his fantasy of life.

Queen of Cups

The Queen of Cups typifies all of the Water qualities, being the watery part of Water. She shows the possibility of blending intuition, imagination, creativity and action. Her nature is essentially emotional and imaginative, yet she is mature enough to produce tangible results from her inspiration. Her feet are in water and her throne rests upon land, lending her a strong support to make her dreams a reality.

She is aware, from experience, that an undisciplined imagination often produces limited results, and so she directs her energy into activities which are physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually rewarding. Her creative discipline is her greatest achievement, and though she may appear to be gentle and caring, her gaze indicates a strong will. Love tempers her will, adding depth to her nature. She acts with love and compassion, and usually displays strong family feelings.

The Queen is a card for the Water signs in astrology. These are the signs of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. Her cup is her own creation, and is much more ornate than the other cups in this suit. In her cup, she sees clearly what she wants and what she needs to do to get it. Her cup offers her visions, of the future or of possibilities others cannot necessarily see. She is unusually sensitive to her surrounds and herself, and can display strong psychic ability. Being passive in nature (that is, favouring feelings over action), the Queen will often say, ‘Oh, I had a dream about that happening only last week,’ after some unexpected occurrence.

General meaning

The Queen of Cups indicates success through listening to your feelings and through using your imagination creatively.

When describing a person, the Queen of Cups represents a mature woman with an intuitive and creative nature. She is the strong silent type, hearing everything but saying little. These abilities are suitable for a career in counselling, psychology, social work, child care, writing, healing and any creative work. People often confide in her, interpreting her silence as permission to speak up about what is troubling them.

The Queen can have blue or hazel eyes and brown to blonde hair if she’s Caucasian, but the card is more descriptive of her nature than her colouring. As the answer to a question, the Queen of Cups can suggest success through creative discipline.

Relationship meaning

The Queen of Cups describes a woman whose thoughts are rarely far from her partner, or from her loved ones. She values emotional fulfilment above material success, and devotes great time and effort to her relationships, family and children. She seeks union, and does not usually possess the competitive or independent nature of the Queen of Wands.

If problems arise, she can be slow to talk about how she feels, but will still be supportive of people around her, despite her own emotional troubles.

In a relationship reading, the Queen indicates an offer of friendship or a relationship. It can also suggest that it is important to listen to your heart and to your intuition before deciding upon a course of action.

Queen of Cups reversed

The Queen of Cups reversed describes a severing of the connection between Water and Earth, with two possible outcomes. First, she can sink into depression, losing all creative spontaneity as she cuts herself off from the support of friends and the supply of love from within and outside herself. She can then become lost in sentiment or in past emotional hurt, disconnecting herself from the present.

Alternately, she can become cold and ruthless, masking her pain with anger— especially if she feels she has been wronged in love. In this instance, she can leave behind her a trail of partners with broken hearts as she, perhaps unconsciously, punishes them for what someone has done to her. She can disregard love in favour of sensuality, and treat relationships as a playground for power games.

This card often implies a need to forgive yourself, or someone else, in order to release yourself from the past. It can show a need to refocus on that which is around you, and to reconnect yourself with the Water within. It also describes a sadness which needs attention.

The Queen of Cups reversed remembers emotional hurts for a long time. She may forgive, but rarely does she forget. I’ve even heard one reversed Queen of Cups say, ‘Never forgive, never forget.’

The reversed Queen of Cups can describe a lack of success resulting from a lack of creative discipline.

King of Cups

The King of Cups represents the earthy part of Water. This King’s success represents a combination of imagination, discipline and tenacity. His strong stare indicates his self-discipline, which contributes to his continued success. The King is strong yet sensitive, and can display immense personal power. His best decisions are based on his gut-level intuition, and even in business he works on hunches.

The King is patient, creative, deep and sensitive, and he holds his cup close to himself, knowing the value of these qualities and wanting to be sure that you will respect them before he shares himself with you. While the Page is eager and the Knight is enthusiastic about sharing, the King waits for the right opportunity before committing himself. Experience has taught him that things aren’t always as they seem.

He is at home in any creative field such as writing, painting, acting, architecture or music, and is often found working in and around water. The King of Cups is also suited to counselling, psychology, archaeology and the study of philosophy or religion. In a practical career he can be a moderate success, but his heart is usually in creative pursuits.

The King displays depth and understanding, and is suited to a position where meeting the needs of others is of primary concern. He has reached a level of emotional maturity where he can clearly consider the needs of others as well as his own needs, and he often enjoys a sense of community within his family and his environment.

Along with the Death card, the King of Cups can be a card for the astrological sign of Scorpio. Otherwise, the King may be a Cancerian, Piscean or a Leo. He can, in fact, be any sign, but he will usually possess some of the traits of the Water signs such as creativity, sensitivity, secrecy and emotional strength.

General meaning

The King of Cups suggests success through emotional and creative discipline. Through practical application of your energies towards a creative goal, you can achieve the success you seek. A mature, imaginative approach brings success, particularly in creative and artistic endeavours.

The King indicates a time to trust your instincts—don’t give up. A strong yet calm approach is suggested here. Imagination and inspiration followed by practical efforts combine to bring rewards.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the King of Cups describes a man who is sentimental, kind hearted and compassionate in the relationship, or the influence of a man of this nature on the relationship (for example, a father, a friend or a counsellor).

A mature relationship is evident with the King, who is usually a man over 30 years of age. This man knows his strengths and his weaknesses. He treasures being close to his partner emotionally. His plans include his partner and his children, unlike the King of Wands who values his independence.

The King sometimes indicates that a disciplined, creative approach to your relationship brings rewards.

King of Cups reversed

The negative side of the King of Cups’ personal power surfaces when this card is reversed. He can be dishonest in a bid to dominate relationships and those around him. He gives away minimal information about himself, yet is likely to scrutinise you carefully to find your weaknesses. He comes from a position of fear and displays an innate distrust of human nature, often due to emotional damage sustained in his past.

He seeks revenge if he feels he has been wronged, and can add interest to this for the time he has spent waiting to settle the score. He rarely forgives and he never forgets. Cross this type and he will quote verbatim something you have said to him or about him ten or 20 years ago. His memory for emotional hurt seems to be unnaturally strong.

The King reversed represents emotions that have been suppressed for too long, which now seek release. The need to give or receive love has been thwarted or perverted by actions or decisions earlier in life.

His negativity is his choice. He need not live his whole life as a reversed King.

In the words of Kahlil Gibran in his book, The Prophet: ‘. . . and what is evil but good tortured by its own hunger and thirst? Verily when good is hungry it seeks food even in dark caves, and when it thirsts it drinks even of dead waters.’

In relation to the arts, the reversed King of Cups indicates insignificant achievement, or suggests that more maturity and experience are required before his full creative potential can be realised. Creative discipline brings greater rewards and results.

In everyday terms, the King reversed refers to the need to release the past in order to channel creative energy into something meaningful and worthwhile. It is time to forgive and to forget. Your refusal to release the past is depleting your creative resources, perhaps preventing full creative expression.

Chapter 10

THE STORY OF THE SUIT OF CUPS

Once again, the four Court cards represent a family. A father, mother, son and a daughter. It is a harmonious family, each concerned with the emotional wellbeing of the others. However, the young boy is growing up now, and has emotional needs which his parents and his sister cannot fill for him.

In the Ace, the young man decides to find himself, although he does not know this consciously, and he has fallen in love.

In the Two, he discovers his first equal relationship. Almost all of his past relationships were unequal. In his relationship with his parents they had more control, while his relationship with his younger sister allowed him more control. In the Two he is learning how to transfer some of his love for his mother, to his lover. His mother offers him strength, wisdom, maturity and security, and yet with an equal, close, love relationship he can reach new levels of intimacy through a sexual relationship.

In the Three, he decides that if a one-to-one relationship is this good, why not add a third partner to the situation? Alternately, a third person approaches him for a relationship, as he appears happy, confident and positive. There is a great deal of energy at first, and all is well.

Until the Four. In the Four, he realises that this situation is turning out to be something different from what he expected. He is missing something, and longs for the perfect union he experienced in the Two. Now he has three opportunities before him, but closes his eyes to them, preferring instead to dream of the perfect relationship, perhaps from his past. As he sits dreaming, his opportunities move on, and he is not emotionally present to make the most of them.

In the Five, he becomes aware of his separateness. He stands looking at the opportunities lost, and while he mourns, he is unaware of the opportunities behind him and the path leading back to emotional stability.

In the Six, his fear of others coming between him and his partner is the cause of his need for a safe, secure relationship. This couple do almost everything together, often replaying their parental roles in their relationship. They pretend to be innocent once again. Their relationship is safe, secure and predictable.

In the Seven, he begins to realise that happiness cannot be found through someone else, and that perhaps this relationship is not the answer to his emotional needs. He starts upon an inward journey and discovers that something is indeed missing from his present relationship. He examines his needs closely and begins to understand that he does not love himself completely.

In the Eight, he walks away from his relationship, either physically or emotionally, in search of a love that is deeper than he has experienced before. He knows that he must be alone in his search, realising that unless others have been through this search they won’t truly understand its significance.

In the Nine, he finds this love of himself, or self-worth, and discovers it was always with him, deep within his being. It manifests as an unshakeable knowledge of his own spiritual and emotional worth. He no longer needs to rely on others’ opinions of him to boost his opinion of himself. He feels fulfilled. He is bursting with inner contentment and wants to share this happiness with someone special.

In the Ten, he is now ready, as the King of Cups, for a loving, sharing relationship like the one he had in the Two of Cups. It will also have the security of the Six, the understanding gained in the Seven, the strength discovered in the Eight, the self-love of the Nine and the emotional maturity of the King.

The Three of Cups presents itself once more, and someone new enters his relationship. In this instance it is a child: a Page of Cups, Wands, Swords or Pentacles. There is room in this mature relationship for children to grow with love, security and independence. The couple’s first Page is followed by several more Pages, and when this first Page becomes a Knight, the King and Queen will patiently bite their tongues as he repeats their mistakes in order to gain his experience on his way to becoming a King.

The path of the Page to the Queen is similar to the story above, except that she will mature from the Page directly to being the Queen. Perhaps women mature emotionally more quickly than men?

For a colour reference, see The Story of the Suit of Cups chart in the colour section of the book.

Chapter 11

THE BLANK CARD

If your Tarot pack contains a Blank card, include it in the pack when giving readings for it has its own particular meaning. In the Runic stones (a traditional Nordic method of divination) there is a blank Rune stone, and the Blank Tarot card is similar in meaning.

The Blank card signifies that life holds plans for you that are greater than your own plans. You may have clear objectives and a strong belief in where you are heading, but when this card appears life takes you in an unexpected direction. Although you will probably enjoy your destination in the end, you may be surprised at the chain of events that lead you there.

When the Blank card appears in the past position in a layout, it indicates you are thinking about how your life has changed. For example, ‘How did I end up working in natural therapy when I started out in the police force?’, or ‘How have I become a professional musician when I used to be an accountant?’

When it appears in the future position in a layout, the Blank card does not tell you exactly what life has in store for you, only that it is unlikely to be what you have planned. In this case I don’t usually clarify the Blank card by adding another card beside it. This is because you are likely to argue that the outcome is not one you desire, or that you don’t want what life is directing you towards. In the rare cases when I have allowed a client to add another card to the Blank card when it appeared in the long-term future position, each person was adamant that they did not want what was in store for them. Even when I tried to explain that it might prove desirable and worthwhile when the time came, they refused to allow for such a possibility.

For instance, Kevin insisted on having more information when the Blank card appeared as an answer to his relationship question. I asked him to be patient, but he was determined to know more. He added two more cards: the Queen of Pentacles and the Two of Cups, both upright. I described the woman who was to enter his life and the joy that he would find in the start of that relationship.

Kevin was dismissive. ‘Well that’s completely wrong. I’m not interested in women at all. I’m gay.’

‘You may well be gay, but this is what I see in your long-term future (about two years). However, you have free will, so anything I predict isn’t set in stone.’

‘I certainly do, and I’m not about to have a relationship with a woman.’

Nearly two years later, Kevin came back for another reading, and accompanying him, sitting in my waiting room, was a Queen of Pentacles. ‘You won’t believe what I’ve been through in the last year,’ he began. In his first layout, a general reading, the Blank card came up in the past position. The Queen of Pentacles then came up in his relationship question, and this time he could relate to her description.

Another reason why the Blank card doesn’t tell you exactly what life has in store for you is because you may first have to prepare yourself for the opportunities life has to offer, and if you felt safe in the knowledge that you were going to be successful in a certain situation you might not make a serious attempt. If you were to sit around awaiting life’s opportunity you might not make it to the turn-off towards your true purpose.

Effort is still required to make it to the point where life can offer you something more appropriate. In the meantime continue to pursue your current goals, but be open to change when life offers it. If you flow with life it can often lead you to a more fulfilling destination than the one you have in mind.

General meaning

Life has plans for you that are greater than those you have for yourself. Pursue your goals, but be open to the possibilities life offers you. Your present path is leading you to unexpected opportunities. It is likely that current events and experiences are preparing you for an unexpected opportunity that awaits you.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Blank card suggests that a clear answer is inappropriate at present because you don’t know what life has in store for you. Something awaits you in a relationship that could prove fulfilling, yet it is unlikely to be what you expect.

Trust that life will support you by leading you to where your greatest fulfilment lies. This may be a new relationship, or a new stage of your current relationship, which may seem unlikely or unnecessary from where you currently stand. Accept what life offers you and you may be pleasantly surprised with the results.

Chapter 12

THE SUIT OF SWORDS

The Suit of Swords represents the element of Air, or the intellect. Swords can bring pain, but also understanding. This suit deals with the trials we put ourselves through in order to transform our understanding of life.

Ideas, concepts, beliefs and attitudes are represented by the Suit of Swords. The astrological Air signs are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. The restlessness and constant movement of Air can be likened to the mind. The challenge of this suit is to keep thought grounded, clear and useful. It is easy to allow an undisciplined mind to run free, but this does not usually produce anything of value. Seeing many sides of a situation or unlimited possible courses of action can make the choice of what to do much more difficult.

Whereas Wands types act first, attempting to push through any obstacles with enthusiasm and force, Swords types think of the possible consequences of each course of action taken. Mental energy can be the most challenging form of energy to discipline and channel into something useful.

The mind can cause more pain and sorrow than exists in reality, for it is our perception of reality that determines what we see. A friend of mine recently complained that he was worth less than $1 million now, and that it was a depressing thought. Compared with his previous worth of $5 million he is ‘poor’, but compared with someone else he is still wealthy. It is all in how he perceives his situation. He chooses to overlook the big house and the pool, with the harbour at the bottom of his garden, and instead focuses upon what he does not have.

The Swords in this suit are double-edged. While one edge cuts into other people or into life and the obstacles before you, the other cuts into you. Your thoughts and beliefs affect people around you, and they affect you also. An old saying, ‘As you believe, so it is’, aptly describes the power of thought.

The general colouring for Swords types is darker hair and eyes. They can be quick-minded and sharp-tongued, and when reversed they can be mentally quite scattered.

Ace of Swords

The Ace of Swords shows a spirit hand extending from a cloud, clasping a sword upright through the centre of a golden crown. The background is a series of soft greys, and the sword is a clear blue. The sword represents clarity of thought, and Arthur Waite (the designer of the Tarot cards used in this book) uses the colour blue to confirm this. The sword is upright, showing both edges, or both sides of a situation. It suggests an awareness of life’s duality.

The crown represents the material world, and the sword pierces this world. In spiritual terms, it suggests that your mind can see through material existence to the spiritual causes of events and the consequences of thoughts in the material world. It is an understanding that in the universe there is neither reward nor punishment, only consequence.

This card represents clarity of thought, or a clear understanding of what is necessary to complete a project. Note that the Ace is one of only two Swords cards which shows the sword in an upright position. The Queen holds her sword upright, and in the Major Arcana the Justice card shows a woman holding a sword upright. All other Swords cards either show swords on an angle, suggesting slanted thoughts, or reversed swords, indicating thoughts turning inwardly to affect the thinker.

General meaning

The Ace of Swords represents a beginning. It is the act of planning a new venture or project. While the Ace of Wands describes physical action and the Ace of Cups describes emotional action, this Ace depicts an idea being formed, or the plans put in place for future action. Life offers you a new possibility, and you must weigh carefully the likely outcomes of any actions you take.

In everyday terms, the Ace upright can suggest success through clarity of thought. Practical planning and a clear focus on the desired goal bring rewards. The Ace can also represent an idea or plan to improve your material existence.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Ace of Swords suggests a clear plan regarding what you want from a relationship. By having a clear purpose it is often easier to achieve what you desire, for you can readily recognise what you do not want and set about correcting your direction.

The Ace indicates a relationship where there is a great mental alignment between you and your partner. It is likely that you share common goals and interests. It also suggests a meeting of minds.

Ace of Swords reversed

The Ace of Swords reversed suggests confusion in thought, ideas and plans. Perhaps you are unable to clearly see your alternatives at this point. It may be wise to centre yourself before deciding upon a plan of action. Your ideas are likely to be independent of reality and circumstances, rather than practical and useful.

This card indicates that your idea or plan is unworkable, or that there will be delays in putting your plan into action as you lack a clear purpose. Your emotions might be clouding your thoughts, reducing your chances of success if you have no clear objective.

Take your time to think carefully, to examine all the alternatives and to eliminate those which are impractical or unworkable. Any hasty moves now are likely to result in limited accomplishment. You may be impatient to begin new projects but don’t know exactly where to start. Relax and allow your ideas to settle, and form a cohesive plan before starting anything new.

When the Ace of Swords appears reversed it is time to return to the lesson of the upright Ten of Swords and examine which beliefs about life are restricting you or leading to confusion.

In a relationship layout the reversed Ace points to a lack of clear thinking or planning regarding this relationship. Perhaps you want a new relationship but have not considered how you’ll make room for your partner in an already crowded life.

Think about what you want now, before taking any steps.

Two of Swords

The Two of Swords shows a woman sitting on a stone seat. She is blindfolded and carries two swords which she holds outstretched, with her hands across her heart. Behind her, the sea separates her from a stretch of land, and it is night. The only strong colour in this card is the yellow of the moon and her shoes.

The swords, crossed at her heart, are to protect her from painful feelings. Her garments are grey, as is the stone seat, suggesting that she is becoming cold emotionally, as she refuses to face the cause of her pain. If you allow nothing to approach you, nothing can hurt you. She has tied the blindfold on herself, for she has free hands to remove it if she decides to do so.

In this card there is a mixture of anger and fear. The swords are ready to strike out if she is threatened, and the blindfold is an attempt to hide from what causes her fear, or from reality. She has retreated from life and is waiting for circumstances to calm down. She prefers boredom and stagnation to the possibility of further upheaval.

Life circumstances have already calmed down, and the only turmoil remaining is in her mind and her heart. This card describes the act of stepping back from life in order to make sense of emotions. Your fears of what is out there for you might be unjustified. The only way to be sure is to remove your blindfold and see for yourself.

The water behind her suggests emotional distance from stability; a distance which she can bridge by dealing with the instability within herself. Sometimes the Two represents the act of avoiding particular issues or situations that are associated with unresolved fears.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Two of Swords means that you need to make a decision, or choose between two alternatives (the two swords). Try to resolve any emotional conflicts before you make a clear decision. This is an appropriate time to retreat from life in order to sort out your beliefs and resolve your emotional conflict.

However, eventually you must face what you fear so that you can understand what circumstances are teaching you. The rewards of a sound decision await you, beginning with a sense of relief at being focused in one direction.

Relationship meaning

The Two of Swords indicates a time to withdraw from a relationship in order to sort out how you feel. Perhaps you have been hurt in a relationship, and you need some time to heal and to learn from experience before you return to life again.

Sometimes the Two suggests a decision between two relationship opportunities, or a decision about how close you are prepared to allow your partner to get to you. This decision can be made more effectively by combining thought (Swords) and feelings (Water).

Two of swords reversed

When the Two of Swords appears reversed it indicates that your emotions are in turmoil, and consequently making decisions becomes more difficult. Emotions, fears or resentments cannot remain contained forever, and the reversed Two describes emotions or overwhelming fears gaining strength because they aren’t being faced. Often these fears are unfounded or are far removed from reality.

The more you search for the right alternative, the more alternatives appear. This card can represent trying to control your feelings through thought, or rationalising your feelings. It is important to experience and acknowledge your feelings before they can subside. By becoming aware of how you feel you may reach a greater understanding of yourself and your situation.

In everyday terms, the Two reversed describes delayed decisions causing emotional upheaval. For example, Ann had been unhappy with her relationship for three years when she came to me for a reading. Each time I suggested that she take some time to feel what she needed, she responded with a list of possible alternatives and the reasons why each alternative was impractical or unwise. She did not consider her feelings as she endeavoured to make this decision. Her mind offered endless alternatives but few real possibilities. In three years of thinking about her relationship she was still no closer to a solution.

The reversed Two indicates that it is time to return to the lesson of the upright Ace of Swords, to carefully examine your plans before acting on them. It is time to choose one path so that you don’t dissipate your energies attempting to complete several demanding projects at once.

Three of Swords

The Three of Swords shows a heart pierced by three crossed swords, while a storm rages in the background. The heart is a vivid red, in contrast with the dull grey of the clouds. The Three suggests sadness, loss and grief. Disappointment and despair often accompany this card. Some people feel that this card is too explicit, but we all experience sadness and pain at some point in our lives, and personal grief can help us to develop depth, compassion and tolerance for others.

When the Three of Swords appears you can expect some pain. Don’t deny this pain, because if you do it may lead to emotional stagnation or depression. If you step away from pain within yourself, you risk stepping away from life and becoming disconnected from your surroundings. Many illnesses can be traced back to denied pain. Some chronic health problems can be linked to the avoidance of legitimate suffering and sadness, grief or disappointment at life’s events.

When the Three appears it is important to experience your sadness, for in doing so you clear the way for approaching opportunities to reach you. Remember that this sadness will pass.

General meaning

The Three of Swords represents a time when you are experiencing sadness and loss intensely. Confusion, grief and heaviness of heart are apparent when the Three appears in a spread. It also signifies strong disappointment. In a health reading it can suggest heart trouble.

Some years ago a friend asked me what the future held for a business project involving a partner that was estimated to take about four months to complete. The answer was the Six of Wands, suggesting success. He added an extra card to the Six, which was the Three of Swords. We were puzzled as to how a successful project could end in disappointment. In the end the project required a great deal of work and it was a resounding success, except that his partner disappeared with all of the profits.

Relationship meaning

The Three of Swords indicates pain and suffering within a relationship. It shows a loss and grief which can seem overwhelming. Remember that this will pass, and that it needs to be experienced honestly and not suppressed.

When reversed in a relationship reading, the Three of Swords can highlight unresolved sadness from the past (either in this or in an earlier relationship), which is leaving you unfulfilled with your present circumstances. You may be keeping those around you at an emotional distance in an attempt to protect yourself from further possible sadness.

Three of Swords reversed

A similar sadness exists when the Three of Swords appears reversed, only this time you deny your feelings. The energy required to deny or suppress pain and loss must be taken from somewhere, and it usually comes from the energy you have for living. The greater the pain, the greater the energy required to suppress it, leaving you with less energy for living.

The Three reversed can represent present vision clouded by past pain. Perhaps you were overwhelmed by your feelings, and the only way you could deal with them was to suppress them. That may have been an effective way to cope at the time, but perhaps it is time now to find another, more appropriate way to resolve these feelings. Unresolved feelings usually wait for you.

For example, when Rosemary’s father died she experienced a long period of profound grief. She found herself grieving for the father figure she didn’t have in her childhood. It was longstanding grief, and it took some time to be fully experienced and released. She had not accepted the grief of losing her father in her childhood (her parents separated when she was five years old), and this grief surfaced when he died. She was, in effect, grieving for her father as an adult and as a five-year-old child.

The Three reversed suggests an inability to accept pain or suffering. There is a tendency to suppress pain or to avoid situations that might trigger memories of anything painful. It is time to return to the lesson of the upright Two of Swords, to decide where best to invest your mental and emotional energies for the desired results.

Four of Swords

The Four of Swords shows a man lying in a meditative position on a coffin inside a church. One sword lies horizontal beneath him, while three swords point downwards above him. The colourful leadlight window portrays a disciple receiving a blessing from someone he reveres.

This card suggests passive thought, retreat or meditation. The yellow foreground indicates the intellect at work, for yellow traditionally suggests an intellectual approach to life. This card can suggest isolation from others in order to regain strength and understanding. It is a time of withdrawal to think things through, to recover after an illness, or simply to hide away from life.

In the Four, the man retreats to think things over. If, when he has finished thinking, he returns to life, it has been a useful process. If he does not return, he risks stagnation. All the Fours in the Tarot refer to consolidation. This is the act of making firm or strengthening your position. In the Four of Swords he strengthens himself by uniting or combining his thoughts and beliefs about life. He arrives at a deeper understanding of life by reflecting on his past actions and experiences.

General meaning

The Four of Swords can signify a retreat from life: a physical retreat into your home, or a mental retreat into your dreams and fantasies.

After his marriage break-up, Glen spent almost two years living alone in his house. He rarely entertained and did not visit his friends. Instead he read books, learned to play the cello and reflected on his past relationship. His question, ‘Why did this relationship finish?’, was a typical Swords approach to life. He needed some answers, which he found in his solitude and within himself. When I read for him almost three years after his separation, the Four of Swords appeared as the card for his past.

In a health reading, the Four suggests a period of ill health, an operation or simply a period of low physical energy. Time alone is required to re-balance your energies.

Sometimes this card can highlight the need for meditation in order to reacquaint yourself with the underlying spiritual causes of events recognised in the Ace. The leadlight window suggests an inner path is calling you, even when you appear at rest.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Four of Swords can suggest a stage or a relationship in which you consolidate or strengthen yourself and your understanding of life. Sometimes it describes a partner who retreats from life and from the relationship to reflect upon life. It can (depending on the other cards in the layout) describe a partner who withdraws from a relationship physically or mentally, perhaps into books or a passive hobby, or even through sleeping.

Four of Swords reversed

The Four of Swords reversed indicates a time for change. At this juncture you know what you don’t want, but you may not know what you do want. Jump in and see what happens. It can also signify a time to return to everyday life after a period of isolation.

This card can suggest a speedy recovery from an illness, or a leap back into life after a period of peace and calm. Having looked within yourself and reflected upon your past actions it is time to apply your new understanding to life. When the Four appears reversed it may be time to return to the lesson of the upright Three of Swords, to surrender to grief and loss as you gracefully accept the changes life has brought you.

In a relationship layout the reversed Four of Swords can describe a restlessness for change. You may be willing to risk the loss of a relationship (a return to the upright Three) in order to progress emotionally within or without your relationship.

Five of Swords

In the Five of Swords there has been an argument between five people, three of whom are still visible in the card. The person in the foreground has won the battle but not the war, as there is no real resolution. The clouds reflect an atmosphere charged with emotion, anger and fear.

This card indicates arguments, conflict and loss. Although the battle has been won, much has been lost, including an opportunity for learning and growth. This battle can be between two or more people in a relationship, partnership or a working environment. There is a disagreement and tension mounts. Conflict arises, and through force, intimidation or clever manipulation one person gets what he wants. He may win the battle, but he risks losing the respect and cooperation of the others involved.

The Five of Swords suggests that there is compromise instead of resolution. However, without resolution the problem is likely to return. It may have a different face, but it will probably keep returning until the issue is resolved. ‘If only I can get on top of this’, is the attitude suggested in the Five.

The Fives in the Tarot have a collective meaning. The upright Five usually signifies close-mindedness, whereas the reversed Five signifies broadmindedness.

General meaning

The Five of Swords is a card for arguments, tension and conflict. This can be within yourself or with people around you. If this conflict is with other people, it is likely to have been on your mind beforehand. Everyone in this situation has an opinion as to how problems should be resolved, and nobody is listening to anybody else. While one person tries to convince another of their method, the next person is thinking of what they intend saying when their turn comes to speak. There is no real connection or communication between the people involved.

In a career reading, the Five indicates that you are likely to be leaving your job or changing your career soon. The Five is a card for separation under difficult circumstances. This group of people are not presently working as a team. The changes this Five brings are forced, unnatural and likely to require more change later on as the unresolved problem resurfaces in another guise.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Five of Swords indicates separation, conflict and loss. Two people—or more if relatives or friends are involved—have decided how circumstances ought to be, and their opinions are different and intractable. There can be no real resolution unless each person listens to what the others have to say.

In this situation, two or more people are locked in battle, physically, emotionally or mentally. Perhaps this is not the first time this conflict has appeared, and each person may have some unfinished business from the previous conflict. This in itself makes clear communication more difficult.

Five of Swords reversed

The Five of Swords reversed can still be a card for disagreement and separation, but following the conflict each person thinks about the issue and their actions. Communication is possible when the Five is reversed, as the people concerned are more open-minded.

Perhaps it is time to explain how you see the issue and to hear from those concerned how they see things from where they stand. The pattern appears before you now, and you are prepared to take more responsibility for the underlying causes. This is not the first time you have been in this position, and perhaps you are doing something which contributes to this conflict.

Ian complained throughout his reading that women were not to be trusted. He believed that as soon as they had his complete commitment they would find another partner. His last five relationships had ended disastrously, and he was bitter. ‘You can’t tell me that I’m responsible for the break-up of my last relationship,’ Ian said. ‘She told me that she wasn’t sure she wanted a full-time relationship. She said she wanted a break for a few weeks. We had a break, and three weeks later I went to see her and she had a new boyfriend. He was living in her house!’

‘So you’re telling me that you don’t feel at all responsible for the break-up of that relationship?’

‘Exactly. When I think about it, not one woman in my life has given me the love and attention I need. Not one.’

‘Is it possible that you might be drawn to women who can’t meet your needs? Or that you might have some difficulty allowing people to love you?’

‘Maybe. But that doesn’t make her actions any better.’

‘Perhaps not. However, your last five relationships have ended in very difficult circumstances. The last relationship has shocked and hurt you. Perhaps you are locked into a pattern where your emotional needs go unmet.’

Ian left dejected, yet prepared to examine the pattern of his past relationships, right back to his first relationship with a woman: his mother.

When the Five appears reversed in a layout it may be time to return to the lesson of the upright Four of Swords, in order to reflect on your circumstances. This period of reflection may offer you solutions not previously examined in the heat of the moment during recent conflict.

Six of Swords

The Six of Swords shows a man steering a punt from turbulent to calm waters. A woman and a child share this journey with him. There are six swords in the boat, representing past and present beliefs about life. They weigh down the boat and make progress more difficult, but removing them will leave six holes and the boat is likely to sink. This card suggests that your beliefs about life are slowing you down, but don’t attempt a radical change, for progress is likely to be slow and steady, and radical change may cause more problems than it brings solutions.

The Six indicates that you are carrying the swords (problems) with you from your past into your future. You may no longer notice them, but they are with you anyway. It is the process of moving from difficult times to a more balanced situation.

The Six can also be a card for mourning. It suggests a quiet transition; for example, death after an illness or the slow acceptance of the death of a situation. The promise of more peaceful times to come is shown by the calm waters leading to the stability offered by the land ahead. The reversed swords in this card suggest that your thoughts have returned to you in actual events—that is, life is mirroring your beliefs.

General meaning

The punt shown in the Six of Swords indicates overseas travel, especially if the Six is accompanied by the Page of Swords, the Eight of Wands, the Three of Wands or the Temperance card.

The Six of Swords can describe the act of leaving a difficult situation and emotionally releasing the past, slowly, as you move towards new experiences. Your struggles are over for now; it is time to release the past and leave it where it belongs. Perhaps a period of financial difficulty or a health concern is behind you now, as circumstances are gradually improving.

Theo and Cristina purchased a house, and within six months Theo was retrenched from his job. The ensuing financial hardship placed great stress upon their relationship, as Cristina worked overtime to meet the house payments. During Theo’s reading the Six of Swords appeared for the present, and I explained that the troubles of the past were slowly dissolving from their lives.

When we chanced to meet in the local shopping mall a month later, he enthusiastically explained that he had a new job, and that he was slowly catching up with all the bills again.

Relationship meaning

The Six of Swords suggests that any difficulties in your relationship will soon be behind you, and your relationship will gradually grow and develop. A new physical or emotional situation will give you the opportunity to experience this relationship in a different way. The Six can also suggest the acceptance of the end of a love relationship. After the conflict of the Five each person is content to take his or her path towards a more harmonious life.

Six of Swords reversed

The Six of Swords reversed suggests a stormy journey, physically or spiritually, as you open up old scars to allow the wounds to heal properly. This may be in the form of talking about a problem, even though it can lead to upheaval.

This card reversed also describes the act of rocking the boat, or causing problems to find solutions, for sometimes a confrontation can clear the air and make way for negotiation. It is an example of leaping out of the frying pan and into the fire. The Six reversed indicates that you have acknowledged your unhappiness about a particular situation and that you are making the necessary changes to bring about fulfilment in the future. For example, the Six appeared reversed in Nikki’s relationship reading, and as I explained it she started to laugh.

‘I woke up one morning and looked at Roy, and I suddenly realised that he wasn’t going to change. He was an alcoholic and that’s what he wanted to be. I left and I’ve never been back. It was hard at first, without pots and pans and basic furniture, but I’d do it again if I had to.’

In the Six reversed you remove the swords from the floor of the punt and are faced with the choice of sinking, swimming or reaching solid land before you take on too much water. You are actively seeking to speed up change by forcing a particular issue to its conclusion. The reversed Six suggests that it is time to return to the lesson of the upright Five of Swords. This means that an argument or an open disagreement may be necessary to initiate change. In acknowledging the differences aloud you can seek viable solutions or agree to part company.

It is time to examine your beliefs about life (the six swords), and to remove those beliefs which no longer support you in the pursuit of your purpose. While this is done carefully in the upright Six, your actions may be more urgent or forceful when the Six appears reversed.

Seven of Swords

The Sevens in the Tarot share the communal meaning of don’t give up. In the Seven of Swords, it refers to not giving up mentally. It is time to find another path, or a different solution to the problem.

The card shows a military camp. The man in the foreground is stealing the enemy’s weapons. He is refusing to give up, and is doing whatever he can while there is still time. In the morning, the owners of those seven swords plan to use them to kill the man pictured, but he hasn’t given up yet. He is aware that he can improve his chances of survival by stealing some of their weapons. He is being adaptable. He is finding a new approach to the goal in mind: his survival.

This Seven suggests that you can find an effective approach by thinking about the alternatives. Some of the greatest inventions throughout history have resulted from people thinking laterally about subjects which interested them. By ‘thinking outside the lines’ you can sometimes arrive at surprising destinations.

General meaning

The Seven of Swords’ message is don’t give up. Find another way to achieve what you want. Sit for a while and examine all your options. Play with this challenge mentally in order to find previously unseen possibilities. You still have time to achieve your desires, but you will need to be adaptable in your approach. In simple terms, if you are not receiving the rewards you desire, do something differently. A different combination of actions can bring about a different result.

The Seven is also a card for secretiveness, hidden motives and dishonesty. For example, Gary was about to purchase a business, and the Seven of Swords appeared in his layout. I cautioned him to examine the business very closely before committing himself financially. He later confirmed my suspicions: it turned out that the owner had been dishonest about the current success of the business, and one senior manager departed unexpectedly with $500 000 of company funds only one month after Gary had examined the venture.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Seven of Swords is not necessarily a positive card. It suggests dishonesty, and if found alongside the Three of Cups it can suggest that there are three people in a relationship, such as when one partner has an affair.

This card can also suggest that adopting a new approach to an existing relationship could bring you the rewards you seek. Don’t give up on your relationship; find a different way to achieve your goal. Instead of wrestling over how each partner handles the toothpaste you might decide to each have individual tubes to eliminate the issue.

Seven of Swords reversed

The Seven of Swords reversed can suggest that you are holding on to an outmoded way of doing something. It is a time to listen to others, as someone may be offering the advice you need. Seek a different approach if you want to achieve your goal. Doing the same thing the same way is likely to produce the same results. If you don’t want the results you are presently achieving, change your approach.

The Seven reversed can still suggest deceit, or self-deceit. Self-deceit involves narrowing your perception and your alternatives for dealing with a situation. The reversed Sevens in the Tarot have a communal meaning, which is don’t hold on. In other words, don’t hold on to your old way of thinking, of approaching life or of feeling about issues. Perhaps you are holding on to an irrational belief about life, or deceiving yourself that things are or were okay. A Swords approach to life is: if you don’t like the world, change your thinking—the world changes accordingly.

When the Seven appears reversed in a layout it may be time to return to the lesson in the upright Six of Swords, to accept the stability which accompanies gradual positive change and growth. Perhaps changing your beliefs is perceived as too threatening at this time and the gradual opening to new beliefs (as shown in the Six) is more appealing.

In a love relationship, the reversed Seven can suggest deceit. It can also point to the need to become adaptable in your thinking if you want to avoid upheaval in your relationship.

Eight of Swords

While in the Two of Swords the woman blindfolded herself, here in the Eight of Swords the way she is tied up suggests that she has been imprisoned or disempowered by another person. The castle on the hill behind her represents authority, and it is this authority which has convinced her (at least in her mind) that her choices are limited and that she is in effect tied up (obligated, restricted, etc.).

This woman is clothed in orange and red, suggesting that her physical passion and courage are imprisoned in her thinking (as she is positioned between swords). There is water at her feet, suggesting that her emotions are accessible if she chooses to feel them. The blindfold prevents her from realising that the castle beyond is smaller than she imagines or remembers.

Notice that her legs are not bound. She is in fact free to leave whenever she wants, but her fear and confusion hold her in place. If someone ties you up physically you are easily set free, but if someone ties you up mentally, setting you free is a slow and careful process, as many counsellors might confirm. The Eight suggests that you believe you have no alternative to being enslaved, so no alternative exists for you. You may be oppressed by your partner, your family, your community, your government, or by your spiritual or religious beliefs.

H.P. Blavatski, founder of the Theosophical Society, believed that we are constantly deceived, by ourselves and by others. The Eight of Swords represents this deception and its result: a loss of power.

When the Eight of Swords appears in a layout, no matter what others are telling you, you must listen to your feelings as they will lead you to the truth of the matter. It is a time to trust what you feel within yourself regardless of what you are being told. The strength in this card is found in your intuition or your instincts rather than the confusion which fills your mind.

General meaning

The Eight of Swords represents a time when you are constricted or when you lack personal power in a situation. You feel stuck, trapped and unable to see a clear path ahead of you.

Feel your way to the path which awaits you. Use your inner strength and personal power to free yourself and reclaim the personal power you have surrendered to others. Your beliefs are your greatest restriction. Look within yourself and examine these beliefs. In this your current blindfold in fact assists you, as it prevents you from being distracted.

In a health reading, the Eight can describe asthma or chest complaints, as it is not uncommon to have problems breathing when feeling oppressed.

Relationship meaning

The Eight of Swords shows constriction within a relationship. This can be in the form of a restrictive role, or it may be that you feel trapped or bound to this situation.

Janice turned up the Eight during a relationship question. She felt that her relationship with Michael was very oppressive, and she was planning to leave him when he unexpectedly suffered a stroke. He was in bed for about six months and required a great deal of ongoing emotional support after he was back on his feet. She felt it was impossible to walk away from him under the circumstances, and felt even more trapped in the relationship.

It may have benefited Janice to look within and find her inner strength once again. She may have found possibilities previously hidden to her.

Eight of Swords reversed

When the Eight of Swords appears reversed you can throw off your blindfold and see life as it is. The eight swords, each representing a particular belief about life, are now loose and you can liberate yourself from your restrictions. In everyday terms, it means the worst is now over. With a clearer perception, healthy choices can now be made.

It is a card symbolising release after confinement. New understanding replaces old beliefs which have held you back on some level. It may be time to return to the lesson of the upright Seven of Swords, using your mind to find viable alternatives to ease current adversity.

In a relationship layout the reversed Eight of Swords suggests that a recently frustrating period is now over, and you can see your choices more clearly. You are likely to act with more personal power in relationships than previously when the Eight appears reversed.

Nine of Swords

The Nine of Swords shows a person sitting up in bed, as though wakened from a bad dream. The nine swords are horizontal, with the ninth sword reaching this person’s heart, linking thought or worry with emotions. The bed cover is decorated with red roses and the signs of the zodiac, symbolising the cycles of life we all experience with the movement of the planets and the passing of time.

In The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, Arthur Waite talks of ‘imprisonment, suspicion, doubt, reasonable fear and shame’ for this card, and it can have each of these meanings, depending on the cards surrounding it. The Nine is a card for worry and emotional turmoil. This worry can be about yourself or about those around you.

Strong dreams or nightmares are also shown by the Nine, with nightmares being a less than subtle message from your subconscious to your conscious mind that something is not right in your life. When you wake up you can find that you have a clear memory of your dreams, or that you are tired. Tiredness in this case can be the result of strong dreams disturbing your sleep patterns. If you regularly record your dreams in a diary you may find a common thread or an apparent message. Your dreams can then become a valuable tool for accessing your subconscious mind.

The Nine can suggest that too much of your body energy is in the head area. Perhaps your focus and attention are on your thoughts, without an awareness of your emotions or your body. In this case, you need to ground yourself. This is simply the act of reacquainting yourself with the earth by walking, doing physical exercise or spending time in close connection with nature. Physical activity often assists in redistributing your energy throughout your whole body.

General meaning

The Nine of Swords represents powerful dreams. Perhaps your subconscious mind is endeavouring to teach you something. Listen to your dreams. You may be supporting a situation or a philosophy which does not support you in return.

In a health reading, the Nine refers to problems with the heart, upper spine, neck and head areas. Worry, headaches and sleeping difficulties are also indicated by the Nine of Swords.

If the Nine is accompanied by Pentacles cards in a layout you may be worried about money issues. If it appears alongside Cups cards you may be worried about a relationship or emotional issues. Alternatively, if it accompanies Wands cards it can indicate that you are worried about travel, change or too many possible paths or projects requiring your attention at once.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Nine of Swords suggests that you are worried about a relationship, or perhaps you are having strong dreams which are telling you about underlying problems within a relationship. Sometimes, when you do not or cannot resolve issues effectively your dreams assist you to do this or show you a solution. It is time to listen to yourself so that you can identify and meet all your needs.

The Nine can also signify that you fear a relationship is breaking up. This fear may be unfounded. As a reader you need to take into account the other cards in the layout to confirm this meaning.

Nine of Swords reversed

When the Nine of Swords appears reversed it indicates intuition through dreams. You are more likely to be aware of your dreams, and it is probable that you will act upon their message. This card can suggest prophetic dreams, detailing important events yet to come in your life.

In simple terms, the Nine tells of your subconscious mind communicating your fears and desires to your conscious mind through dreams. When the Nine appears reversed you are more likely to heed the message, for it is a time to stop hiding from yourself, your true worth, your fears or your unfulfilled desires. If you face your fears your dreams will subside once again. It can also indicate that you are less worried about a particular situation.

When the Nine appears reversed in a layout it may be time to return to the lesson of the upright Eight of Swords, to heed your instincts or intuition. While worries alert you to the fact that something is wrong in your life your instincts may provide viable solutions.

In a relationship layout the reversed Nine suggests worry about the direction of a relationship or fear that it is disempowering you. When Brenton selected this card in a relationship question he revealed that his partner’s insecurities and constant jealously kept him tiptoeing around so as not to upset her. Through fear of losing Brenton, Melanie had gradually cut him off from his friends and family.

He was right to be worried about the consequences of these actions, as Melanie was beginning to complain that Brenton was no longer the vibrant, confident man he had been when they first met. Having cut him off from his social network, Melanie was beginning to lose interest in Brenton and the reversed Nine reflected his subconscious mind alerting him through dreams at night.

Ten of Swords

The Ten of Swords offers a sinister and memorable image. A person lies face down on the ground with ten swords in his back and neck. The sky is black except for a glimmer of light on the horizon, suggesting a sunrise. Beyond the man a pool of water lies as still as glass, and no one else is visible.

This card suggests that you have reached the lowest point in a situation, yet the glimmer of sunlight in the distance suggests that new and better opportunities will follow this difficult time. Things will improve if you allow change to take place. Acceptance is the key here, and a passive releasing of what you can no longer hold in your life. Your thoughts or beliefs about life have brought you to this point, and from here your beliefs will take you wherever you think you can go.

It may benefit you to detach yourself from your material surroundings and from your beliefs about life in order to examine them in detail. You may well be holding onto useless possessions or circumstances, or destructive beliefs about life. Often, at this low point it is tempting to cling to circumstances and attitudes which you might otherwise discard. Detaching yourself from these circumstances sounds easy in theory, but in practice can be filled with dangers, both real and imagined. The lesson here is to surrender and allow change to take place.

General meaning

The Ten of Swords represents the death of a situation. It can be the end of a relationship or of a stage in a relationship, or the collapse of a business. Something in your life is over, and acceptance of this will enable new things to replace the old.

In a health reading, the Ten describes spinal trouble, neck tension or throat difficulties. When found alongside Death, the Tower and Judgement cards, the Ten of Swords can signify a physical death.

Some years ago I read for a woman who had finished asking her list of questions with ten minutes of the hour still to spare. As a final question, she chose to ask about her father’s health. In his health reading were the Six and Ten of Swords, the Death, Tower and Judgement cards, and to this she added the Blank card in the outcome position. I studied the cards for a few minutes to be absolutely certain. There was no way around it. I’d have to tell her that there was a distinct possibility that her father would die in the coming months. I broached the subject carefully to avoid shocking her, and she smiled in return.

‘Oh, I know he doesn’t have long. He’s in hospital on a morphine drip as we speak. I just wondered if it would show up in the cards.’ Without the other cards, the Ten would have only suggested a change. In combination it confirmed the ultimate change.

If the Ten appears in the outcome position, have the client add a card to it so that the reading doesn’t end on a low note. If you can tell your client about the opportunities which may present themselves after the Ten of Swords you’ll offer them a hopeful image of the future.

Relationship meaning

The Ten of Swords can represent the death of the entire relationship or of a stage within it. For example, when a child is born your relationship with your partner dies in its existing form and is transformed into a new relationship which includes another person. Sometimes the Ten refers to the low point experienced before a separation.

Ten of Swords reversed

The Ten of Swords reversed indicates a temporary relief from a difficult time, and it may be wise to use this opportunity to make a real change within yourself or to your situation. If you don’t make a change the situation is likely to revert to the way it was, and the Ten will once again appear upright in your readings.

This is not a time to relax, but time for a real change. After a business collapse, this card shows you are ready to change, move on and learn from previous circumstances. When reversed, the Ten shows that you have reached the lowest point, but nothing will improve of its own accord. It’s time to get on your feet and begin in a new direction. The reversed Ten suggests a need to return to the lesson of the upright Nine of Swords, to heed your dreams and your instincts now for best results.

In a relationship layout the reversed Ten signifies a low point but not necessarily the end of the relationship. If changes are made the relationship may survive this trough.

Page of Swords

The Suit of Swords represents the element of Air, and this Page is the airy part of Air. You will notice that this Page’s feet are well above the ground. This shows an approach to life that requires you to detach yourself from reality through dreams and thoughts.

It is a positive card for someone who relies upon ideas and thought for their livelihood, but can suggest that grounding is necessary if anything practical or tangible is to be produced.

The Page represents news—for example a telephone call, an email or a letter—as the Page traditionally brought the news to the court. As this Page is floating above the ground it also suggests travel by air. This is confirmed if the Three of Wands, the Six of Swords, the Eight of Wands, Temperance or the World also appear in a layout.

When describing a person, the Page of Swords indicates their general colouring is usually dark hair and eyes (this applies to each of the Swords court cards). If the person represented by this Page is less than 21 years old they may be full of ideas, plans and dreams, but can lack the practical grounding necessary to put their plans into action. If the person represented by this Page is over 21, they are probably immature or childlike in their approach to life.

As a young person, this Page is talkative, curious, quick-minded and sociable. He or she thrives in the company of others, and social events are eagerly sought out by this Page.

General meaning

The Page of Swords can represent a journey by plane, news about whatever your question relates to or, in a general reading, news about an idea or plan you currently hold. A young person with an active mind, easily given to inspiration but not very practical with their ideas, can also be suggested by the Page of Swords.

In a career reading, it can represent ideas and dreams that would assist or be a part of your career. Sometimes the Page of Swords suggests that you are ‘up in the clouds’ about a project or situation and that you need to come back to reality before deciding if your ideas are workable.

Relationship meaning

The Page of Swords indicates that you are dreaming about what you want in a relationship, but doing nothing about making that dream a reality. It suggests that you have a fairytale attitude to relationships, or that you are withdrawing from reality or pain by staying up in your head (that is, approaching life through thought, without regard to what you feel). It represents an intellectual approach to your emotions, without sufficient grounding to gain a deep understanding of yourself or your situation.

Page of Swords reversed

When reversed, the Page of Swords can signify delayed news. It also suggests you are not grounded. Plane flights are a more likely explanation when the Page is reversed than when it is upright. In a career reading, the reversed Page can indicate flying related to career. Flight attendants and pilots often select this card.

Gossip is one meaning for the Page as he brings the news, but this time he brings it to more people than intended. It can also suggest that you are more generous in thought or in talk than in action.

The Page of Swords can indicate that you are not doing much to make your dreams a reality. Perhaps you are talking about completing one goal while physically pursuing another.

Jenny talked incessantly about her writing. Everybody she met, however briefly, knew about the book she was putting together and how it was changing her life. The truth was that all her enthusiasm came out of her mouth instead of her pen, and she had not written one page in ten months. She lived out her dream of being a writer without actually doing any writing. When the Page of Swords appears reversed, the message is stop dreaming and start acting.

In a relationship question the reversed Page can suggest that you are making plans about a relationship without discussing these plans with your partner. It can also describe the tendency to fantasise about a love relationship which doesn’t exist. Toni asked about her love relationship with Alex and the reversed Page as the answer suggested that she was fantasising about a non-existant relationship. She later confided that she hadn’t seen Alex in 18 months after a bitter separation.

Knight of Swords

When compared with the other Knights, the Knight of Swords is the fastest in movement, action and thought. He represents the fiery part of Air, and is a combination of thought and action. He is hasty in thought, word and action. Restless and impatient, he’s always eager to rush into something new, even if he is unsure where he is heading. He can initiate action without thought as to how it will finish.

This Knight represents the astrological signs of Aries and Gemini. Aries is confirmed when the Emperor or the King of Wands also appears in the spread and Gemini is suggested by the inclusion of another Swords Court card or the Lovers card.

The Knight of Swords describes a man aged between 21 and 30, with a quick mind and body, who prefers action to careful planning or reflection. This person tires of repetition easily, preferring movement, novelty and change. This Knight has the choice of becoming the King of Wands or the King of Swords. To become the King of Wands he must discipline his enthusiasm, whereas to become the King of Swords he needs to discipline his mind.

General meaning

The Knight of Swords represents swift action: jumping into or out of a situation. As an answer to a question, it suggests that a quick move or sudden action is required. There is no time to ponder the alternatives—just do it.

This card usually represents a young man who is unpredictable, impatient and has a quick mind. If this person offers you assistance you have only a short time to decline or accept, for soon he will be focused elsewhere.

Relationship meaning

The Knight of Swords often indicates a man who comes into your life and can leave it again within a short time. He is passing through, so enjoy your time with him but remember that he may change his mind, his direction or his location at a moment’s notice.

A relationship for the Knight is a meeting of minds. He thrives on ideas and concepts, and can take a conversation in a new direction very quickly. An example of this is Helen’s partner, Bradley. When celebrating her tenth wedding anniversary, Helen remembered the telephone conversation with Bradley that started it all.

‘What are you eating?’

‘An orange.’

‘Oh, that reminds me. Do you still have that wild orange belt you owned when we shared that house near Brighton?’

‘No. I don’t think so.’

‘I heard that house sold last week for almost a quarter of a million. Outrageous, don’t you think?’

‘Well, yes.’

‘I still have visions of you slipping over on the muddy driveway in that impossible satin dress after Mark’s party. Speaking of Mark, is he married yet?’

‘No, not yet.’

‘I’ve picked the church I’m to be married in.’

‘Who are you planning to marry?’

‘I don’t know yet. But one must have a church in mind if one is at all serious about these things!’

‘Oh, Bradley, you do go on!’

‘Not at all. Not at all. So will you marry me then?’

The Knight of Swords rarely finishes a conversation where you expect it to conclude, as his mind leaps from one thing to another. He is an example of quick thought without much discipline.

If you are the Knight of Swords, you may find yourself attracted to another person for the way they think or for some quirky quality they possess. However, you can find that when you have satisfied your curiosity you lose interest and want to move on.

Knight of Swords reversed

In everyday terms, the Knight of Swords reversed suggests a lack of success due to an absence of forethought. It can be an inability to discipline yourself to finish what you start. The Knight reversed represents an undisciplined mind, fascinated by novelty and sensation.

The reversed Knight can be extravagant, careless and shallow. Impatience is suggested here, along with an inability to stop and reflect on past actions.

Repeated mistakes often result, leaving him feeling even less patient. He may find himself trying to make up for lost time by hurrying, giving rise to plenty of action but no results.

The reversed Knight can represent starting something you cannot or will not finish, as you have given no thought to its completion. You may have promised more than you can deliver, or find that you cannot live up to your word as the situation is more complex than you realised at first.

Queen of Swords

The Queen represents the watery part of Air: a combination of emotions and intellect leading to understanding. She is rational, clear-thinking and patient. The tassel hanging from her left wrist is a reminder of the bonds (as seen in the Eight of Swords) she has cut with her sword (her mind). Her understanding of life has set her free. There are clouds around her, but her head is above them, suggesting that she can see beyond the emotional ups and downs of life. She beckons life forward with her hand, yet her sword is poised as she analyses that which approaches. The Queen’s sword is upright, showing both edges, for she understands the duality of life.

She is quick-minded, an excellent organiser and a shrewd judge of human nature. She can be a perfectionist. She gives good, sound advice, based upon clear memories of her own painful experiences. This is a woman who loves to talk. Good conversation seems to bring this Queen to life.

This can be a card for the sign of Virgo, especially if it is accompanied by the Hermit, or it can represent the Air signs of Gemini, Libra or Aquarius. The person represented by the Queen of Swords is suited to a career in teaching, administration, business management or consultancy, counselling (approaching it from an intellectual level) or personnel management. She can also enjoy politics, medicine, law, I.T., scientific research, publishing, editing/proofreading or anything that engages her mind.

General meaning

The Queen of Swords is a card for thinking about feelings. It can suggest the act of applying your mind to your emotions in order to make sense of what you are feeling. As an answer to a question, the Queen of Swords suggests success through clarity of thought.

The Queen of Swords indicates it’s a time to reflect upon your past actions or your current situation. Observe closely those people and opportunities approaching you to ensure you don’t repeat difficult patterns. You may feel like withdrawing from life to think about yourself and your direction.

Relationship meaning

As a person, the Queen of Swords is a quick-minded woman and a shrewd judge of human nature, who prefers the company of someone who is mentally agile. She approaches relationships cautiously, discovering her partner through conversations and by observing actions and mannerisms. She has a subtle sense of humour, which can be overlooked if you are not listening carefully.

The Queen of Swords can signify that you have a cautious attitude to relationships. For example, you may wish to observe a potential partner for a while before committing yourself. Past difficulties have made you understandably careful with your heart and about commitment. You are not afraid to be alone, as you are not necessarily lonely when alone.

Queen of Swords reversed

When the Queen of Swords appears reversed she can be a pessimist, a perfectionist and cold-hearted. She can use her sword to stir up trouble, combining her shrewd judgement of human nature with her cold curiosity. She may create potentially explosive situations, as she enjoys watching people fight. She can subtly manipulate a showdown to occur between people who would otherwise be friends.

She can be dishonest but is difficult to confront, as she always has a loophole ready to slip through. She can be malicious, narrow-minded and bitter. She seeks out weakness in others in order to control or manipulate them. She constantly doubts her own abilities and will have you doubting yours, too.

She is hungry for contact with life and for growth, but she is afraid to take a risk. Her rigid beliefs about life can starve her emotionally. Her own painful experiences have damaged her so severely that she beckons life to her with an open hand, but cuts it down with her sword when it draws near. When reversed, the Queen of Swords rarely raises her mind to its highest possible good, preferring instead to remain stuck in old habits, hurts or negative beliefs.

In a health reading, the Queen reversed can suggest pancreas trouble, perhaps contributing to hypoglycaemia or diabetes. There is sometimes no sweetness left in this person, only bitterness. She believes life has not been kind to her, and she cannot find any kindness for other people.

Another meaning for this card reversed is the tendency to be very hard on yourself when you make even a small mistake. It can suggest that you are a perfectionist. If this is the case, perhaps you should remember that life involves getting your hands dirty every now and then. Perhaps you have not made sense of events which occurred in the past, and you are punishing yourself in retrospect for actions you did or didn’t take.

In a relationship question if it does not describe the qualities of a partner it may suggest that you are currently filled with doubts about a relationship. Your mind is racing while your feelings are being ignored.

King of Swords

The King of Swords represents the earthy part of Air. He signifies thoughts and ideas put to practical use. The birds above him in the card show the ability of the mind to soar, yet he is firmly seated on his throne, among practical, tangible ideas and concepts. His love of logic and practicality leaves little room for the emotions and dreams he experienced as a Page. The King occupies himself with purposeful thought, unlike the Page who enjoys thought as an escape from the confines of the real world. This card can show that you need to do something real with your ideas and have something material to show for them.

The King represents a mature man who has disciplined his mind. He knows the value of planning and of thought combined with action. He is a person of good, clear, practical ideas, many of which have been tried and tested. He can rely too heavily on practical thought, finding it difficult to experience emotions without rationalising them. He is clear in thought and purpose, a good organiser, and likely to be involved in the management of others.

The King of Swords can represent the astrological sign of Aquarius, especially when the Star also appears in the layout; Libra when accompanied by Justice or the Empress; or Gemini when it appears with the Lovers. The colouring for this King can be darker hair and eyes, but his nature is a more reliable guide than his colouring.

In practical terms, his advice is worth seeking, and he is attracted to law as a career. Business, politics and bureaucracy appeal to him, as do architecture and engineering. He is also suited to careers such as medicine, science, teaching, communication and writing (non-fiction).

General meaning

The King of Swords represents a commitment to clarity of thought and honesty, and a need to put knowledge into practice. As an answer to a question, the King can describe success through having a clear, workable plan. It can indicate sound ideas and management leading to success, as having a plan, a purpose and sustained effort are a winning combination.

This card can suggest that someone is giving you clear, sound advice. When accompanied by the Justice card in a layout, the King can suggest legal procedures are taking place.

Relationship meaning

The King of Swords describes a clear-thinking, practical man who requires a partner who shares his mental understanding of life and whose actions match their words. It can describe a relationship that has a clear purpose and is a meeting of minds.

The King believes that the way to a woman’s heart is through her ear. Through interesting conversations, questions and stories, he can arouse a potential partner’s interest. He’s not your strong, silent type.

King of Swords reversed

The King of Swords reversed can lose his clarity of thought. He may be immature or mentally undisciplined, or even cruel and cunning. When reversed, he can become narrow-minded and deceitful, or mentally scattered and uncommitted to anyone or anything. Like the Knight reversed, he becomes unpredictable in relationships. He can run away for days or weeks at a time and then reappear without explanation as if nothing has happened.

He has an unconventional way of thinking and yet, for all his brilliant and original ideas, he can amount to very little as he lacks commitment and perseverance. With his ability to express himself and his ideas or plans he makes a lasting impression on those who don’t know him well, but to produce results he is best organised by a Queen of Swords or Pentacles. A Pentacles type is able to complete what this King begins.

In everyday terms, this card describes a King of Swords who is experiencing difficulties or a crisis of some sort. When he finds his feet he will reappear as an upright King. The King of Swords reversed can indicate a lack of success through scattered thoughts and plans, and a lack of perseverance.

The reversed King can also symbolise a powerful mind seeking to fulfil a selfish motive—for example, an ambitious person who plans or schemes their ascent to the top. As a legal adviser, this King is most likely to represent criminals by exploiting loopholes in the law, thus becoming rich at the expense of others. He is shrewd enough to cover his tracks or to frame someone else for the deed.

He is often all talk and no action. He is easily distracted from his purpose and requires more mental discipline to realise his plans. In a relationship question the King can describe a man who is fearful of commitment. It can also suggest a relationship lacking a clear direction.

Chapter 13

THE STORY OF THE SUIT OF SWORDS

The King, Queen, Knight and Page are a family: father, mother, son and daughter. It is Christmas, and the King presents his son with his first sword. The Queen, aware of the boy’s limited capability and of the sword’s potential, insists that the Knight receive some lessons in the basics of swordsmanship.

The Knight is impatient to try out his new sword, and rushes off to have a good time with it before his lessons commence the next day. In the Ten, the Knight is killed in battle by someone more skilful than himself.

In the Nine, his sister, the Page, is grieving. She is having to face the fact that something terrible has occurred in her life. She cannot understand why her brother is dead, who was at fault, or why he was given a sword in the first place. Her dreams help her to make sense of this tragedy

In the Eight she feels unable to avenge her brother’s death, having even less experience with a sword than he did. So in effect she is captured and bound by her grief and by her beliefs about life. She feels powerless to do anything about his death and about her pain.

In the Seven, fearing confrontation, she fulfils her desires secretly. She gets her way by manipulating the world while keeping it at a distance, ensuring that she won’t follow in her brother’s footsteps. She is afraid to reveal herself or show her vulnerability.

In the Six, time heals her wounds and the terror subsides, even if it has not been fully resolved. She passes through the turbulent emotional times to more balanced situations. She starts to see that life is all right and that her turmoil comes from within.

In the Five, she tries to impose her narrow views of life upon her family and friends. There are arguments and tension is rife. She wins, or at least she gets her way, although she loses their trust and respect in the process.

In the Four, she reflects upon her actions and the resulting isolation from her family. This leads her to examine her beliefs about life. As she does this, grief resurfaces from her past, and in the Three she experiences the pain she could not accept regarding the death of her brother. She realises that by avoiding risk she has also avoided growth.

In the Two, she comes to understand that thoughts are powerful, and that what you believe about life or yourself will often come true, or to put it in her terms: ‘If you live by the sword, you are likely to die by the sword.’

In the Ace, the sword is finally upright, displaying its double edge. It pierces the illusion of reality to reveal the causes behind events and the thoughts and attitudes which shape our lives.

She grasps the sword and, in doing so, becomes the Queen. She holds her sword firmly and uses it with care. She seeks a partner who is disciplined in thought and clear in his understanding of life. In time, when her own young Knight is old enough, her partner will give him a sword and she will insist that some lessons accompany the gift, knowing the young man’s impatience.

This story is in reversed order to the other suits because the Ace contains the only pefectly upright sword in these ten cards. The Queen contains the only other absolutely vertical sword, confirming her clarity of thought. Sometimes in Tarot courses a reversed Queen of Swords will ask for a story about the reversed cards. This confirms an interest in strife.

For a colour reference, see The Story of the Suit of Swords chart in the colour section of the book.

Chapter 14

HOW ACCURATE ARE TAROT READINGS?

‘How accurate are you?’ came the voice from the phone line. I smiled, and my reply was as it always is to that question.

‘That’s a very difficult question to ask me, as usually only people who feel that I was accurate in my last reading with them return. Those who decide that I was inaccurate or who didn’t like my approach don’t return. Also, you have to remember that no matter how accurate or inaccurate I am as a reader I’m likely to tell you that I am the best. After all, there’s a business motivation underlying our conversation!’

She laughed and agreed with me. ‘You’re cheeky. I like cheekiness. So when can you fit me in?’

Accuracy is a difficult subject to approach when talking to readers. Every reader has their favourite story which proves beyond any reasonable doubt that they are accurate, but I guess every reader has a few doubts about the accuracy of some of their readings.

I was giving readings in a cafe many years ago when I learned a valuable lesson regarding assumptions about gender. The cafe was popular, and I read the Tarot there every Wednesday evening. I read for a woman one night, and I described the King of Wands in her layout as a positive, fiery man with blue eyes and red to brown hair who loved the outdoors. I described him as her partner, because he appeared in a general reading and again in a relationship question. She shook her head when I finished the layout.

‘That’s my partner, over at the table by the door,’ she said, and pointed to a woman in a leather jacket, nursing two helmets and reading the menu. The woman had strong features, short spiky red hair and owned the Harley-Davidson motorcycle parked on the footpath. She was a woman, but she was also a King of Wands, for she possessed most of his qualities despite her gender.

You can’t reasonably expect to be totally accurate in all your readings, but that needn’t stop you from trying to be the best reader you can be, given your circumstances. People often asked me how I could concentrate in a crowded marketplace when singers and entertainers worked within two metres of my table. I replied that I grew up in a family of ten children, and that taught me to focus my concentration.

When you give a reading remember that you’re having a conversation. If you do all the talking you won’t know for sure whether your client is making sense of what you’re saying, or how to adapt your language to suit the client. Wording is everything. You wouldn’t use exactly the same language when reading for a lawyer as when reading for an artist, as they will probably be familiar with different terms. I once gave a reading for the teenage daughter of a friend of mine in the East End of London. These people were true East Enders, and the daughter looked to her mum for a translation after each layout.

‘Is this clear to you?’ I asked after each layout.

‘Wot’s this about a bloke wiff dark ’air? I dunno nuffink ’bout any bloke wiff dark ’air,’ she said after one layout.

‘Wha’ about Michael? ’e’s got dark ’air aint ’e?’ her mum prompted.

‘Oh, o’ course. Bleedin’ Michael would ’ave to turn up, wouldn’ ’e?’

Although we were both speaking English it was difficult to understand one another—we were divided by dialect.

Sometimes a client cannot place some details you’ve given them because you haven’t prompted them to explore all the possibilities. An example of this occurred in a market some years ago. A young girl sat down and shuffled the cards. The bottom card (now the top card, as I had turned the pack over sideways to view it) was the King of Pentacles, under which was the Four of Pentacles and the Two of Pentacles.

I usually examine the bottom card in the pack after the client has shuffled, as this card reveals their immediate concerns or needs.

‘Who is the dark-haired man around you?’ I asked.

‘No one. I don’t know a dark-haired man.’ She needed more detail, so I continued.

‘He is older than you. Over 30 probably, and he could be a Taurean.’ (Both the King and the Four of Pentacles.) ‘He has a decision to make about money or a business at present.’ (The Two of Pentacles.)

‘No. It’s nobody that I can think of.’

‘He probably works for himself, or at least he would like to do so.’

‘No. I can’t place him.’

I left this subject and we proceeded with the reading. In the third layout, I asked her what astrological signs her parents were.

‘Oh, Mum is a Scorpio and Dad is a Taurus.’

‘And does your father work for himself?’

‘Why yes, he does.’

‘Is he currently making a decision about his business?’

‘Wow. This is freaky. He’s deciding whether to move it or to close it down. How did you know?’

‘Remember when you first sat down? I asked you who the Taurean was.’

‘Oh. I was thinking about my boyfriend. He’s a Cancerian.’

Many women immediately think about their partner when you describe a man, but most women know at least five or six men who are important to them. Their father, brothers, co-workers, neighbours, friends or partners of girlfriends. I now phrase this question as, ‘It could be any man who features in your life, not only your partner.’

Sometimes a reading will make little sense to me as a reader and no sense to the client at the time, but if each layout confirms what you have said in the last layout, then trust that it’s correct.

I watched four different students read for a particular woman during a recent Tarot course, and all of them said that she had separated from a fiery man (King of Wands) and that there was currently a quick-thinking man (King of Swords) around her. They each said that the new relationship would only be short-lived, as it was a repeat of the lesson with the fiery man.

Each time someone read for this woman she was unable to believe that this would only be a short-term relationship. It seemed to me that this was a relationship to help her cope with her separation from the fiery man, and that in a month or two it would have served its purpose.

One student who had read for this woman confided in me that she was worried that she might be very wrong in her interpretation, as the woman hadn’t confirmed what she had said.

Tell me. Did you see a fiery man around her in the past?’

‘Yes.’

‘And did you see another man around her in the present?’

‘Yes.’

‘And did you say that it was possible that the present man wouldn’t stay in her life for long?’

‘Yes.’

‘Was that about the time she began to doubt your ability as a reader?’

‘Well, yes, about then she began to seem confused.’

‘You weren’t the first person here to tell her about the man and the relationship. She just has a little trouble hearing today.’

‘But why? Why would she have trouble with that?’

‘Did you ever want to believe in something so much that you only saw what you wanted to see?’

‘Oh, yes. I see.’

‘You have given her your best, and perhaps in time she may remember what you’ve said and it may prove useful to her. It seems that right now it’s very important that she believes in a long-term future with this man. It is not up to us to stop her. We, too, probably have a few erroneous beliefs about life. I used to believe that I only had a few freckles on my face.’

‘Really? But you’re covered in freckles.’

‘Exactly. A photograph finally convinced me of it. Ah, how cruel the camera can be!’

Most people expect you to be 100 per cent accurate, but that’s almost impossible. Compare your accuracy with other professions and you might feel a little relieved. If economists, with all their statistics and research, were a little more accurate they could have forecast the 1987 stock market crash. They didn’t, but that does not stop economists giving predictions, nor does it stop people believing them.

Having said that, I am reminded of an inaccurate reading I gave recently. A friend phoned from interstate to ask when she would be giving birth to her baby. Her partner had guessed 28 October, and I briefly cut the cards and received a confirmation of that date. By 2 November she still hadn’t given birth. There may be several reasons why I was wrong in my prediction. It could have been the haste with which I cut the cards or the wording of my question. I cut the cards very quickly as she was paying for an expensive call. As she has free will, perhaps she was holding on to the baby for fear of giving birth. Telephone readings are a little more complicated to give clearly, as your link with your client is often weaker than if they were in the room with you.

If you are personally affected by the reading or by the question then your accuracy will also be affected. For example, if a client asks you whether it would be wise for her to terminate a pregnancy for some reason and you have strong personal views on that, you are no longer objective, and as such you are no longer qualified to read accurately for that person. Be honest with her. Tell her that you can’t answer that question accurately because you are emotionally involved. Most people are grateful for your honesty, and it’s better than giving a misleading interpretation.

If the client desires a particular result very strongly it can affect the accuracy of the reading. A woman left an urgent message on my answering machine recently, asking that I call back immediately. It turned out that her 15-year-old daughter had gone missing. She had searched everywhere for her daughter and the police had been called in, but there was no sign of her. The mother wanted to know if her daughter was safe and when she would return. There was a great deal of desire attached to the outcome of the question, so I told the woman that I would call her back with any information I could glean from the cards.

Before I told this woman anything, I pointed out that accuracy decreased as emotions increased. The mother was completely emotional, as any mother might be, but this mixture of fear and desire can reduce accuracy in a Tarot reading. She wanted to send her husband over immediately for a reading, but I knew that it was likely to be inaccurate as he was probably as emotionally mixed up as his wife at that moment. In a situation such as this a reading helps no one, and it can damage your reputation as a reader. The mother’s fears or hopes regarding her daughter were likely to affect anything I saw in the cards, so I chose to read quietly and without so much pressure.

In the cards I saw that the daughter was with friends from school (the Hierophant) and that the trouble had started over a young man the daughter was interested in (the Knight of Wands). I was able to phone the mother back with news that her daughter was safe and that she would see her before 10 p.m. that evening. When I told her about the reading the mother agreed about the man and the argument.

She later rang me to say they had found her daughter’s bag at a girlfriend’s place, and that the friend was out, presumably with her daughter. I repeated that she would see her daughter that evening, and said that I would gladly read for her husband in the morning if he still wanted a reading then.

In fact, the mother did see her daughter that evening. She’d been out with a schoolfriend for the day.

Years ago I worked beside another Tarot reader in a small shop, and at around 3 p.m. one Sunday a woman came in to see this person for a reading. I couldn’t help but overhear the reading, and in time I came to know this reading well, for she came in each Sunday for the next seven weeks.

My colleague was at a loss for new ways to say that the dark-haired man who had left her for the red-headed woman was not coming back, and that her own life needed to take a new direction.

‘The man around you in the past has gone now, and it’s unlikely he will be returning . . .’

‘The red-headed woman who is currently with the dark-haired man is planning a life for them, and you would do well to look towards your next opportunity . . .’

‘I see a fair-headed man coming to replace the dark-haired man who has left your life. You will come to be glad that the dark-haired man is with the red-headed woman . . .’

‘There has been a dark-haired practical man around you, but he appears to have departed, perhaps with a red-headed woman . . . ‘

She received eight readings in total, at the end of which she either heard what the reader was telling her or ran out of money, or perhaps she met the fair-haired man. What struck me, though, is that each reading contained almost exactly the same cards from week to week. This convinced me beyond doubt of the accuracy of Tarot readings, (as I was the resident Palmist) as this woman selected many of the same cards in eight readings over a two-month period. Taking into account that she selected the cards with her eyes closed from a downward-facing pack that she herself had shuffled, and that each card was selected at random using her non-writing hand, you can appreciate how unlikely it would be to select any of the same cards by chance alone.

At least one client per week selects a particular card for the same placement in three or more layouts. My interest in coincidence and observations of patterns that form during the course of readings lead me to believe that what appears as coincidence is often in fact an unrecognised pattern.

The client shuffles and selects the cards, leaving you, the reader, to interpret them. Inaccuracies can arise for several reasons. For instance the client may not be mentally focused on the question or may ask an unclear question, or you, the reader, may not observe a pattern or have a clear knowledge of the card meanings.

If the reading process is followed carefully and the client is focused on their question, a reader with a good working knowledge of the card meanings can expect to give a clear and accurate reading. An accurate reading is one that leaves clients with a clear picture of where they are in life and details the alternatives open to them.

Chapter 15

THE SUIT OF PENTACLES

Pentacles represent the element of Earth. Earth represents that which is real, material or in physical form. Wands demonstrate enthusiasm and a positive approach to life. Cups describe emotional sensitivity and creativity. Swords depict thought, ideas and understanding. Pentacles relate to the end product of these, when you combine inspiration with a plan, and enthusiasm with practical effort.

A pentacle is a five-pointed star with a single point upright. Each point represents a part of the body (the head, the hands and the feet). The single point upright signifies the mind in control of physical passions. The circle around the five-pointed star is to contain the energy of the pentacle so that it may be used for a practical purpose.

Pentacles types are earthy. They are at home with nature, practicality, the business world and material possessions. While Wands tend to live in the future, Pentacles live in the present. They are more comfortable with their physical existence than the other three types and tend to take good care of their bodies. They often appear healthy, alive and grounded.

When several Pentacles cards appear in a layout it indicates that financial or material issues are foremost in your mind. You can expect to see these cards in a question about career or finances. It is Pentacles types who say, ‘It’s a great idea and it could make somebody a lot of money, but it will cost a bit to get it going. How much do you have in your pocket right now?’

Ace of Pentacles

The Ace of Pentacles represents a beginning. It might be a fresh start or the commencement of a new phase of a current situation, and is confirmed by the other cards in the spread. If you are in doubt, add another card to go beside the Ace.

In this card, a hand extends from a cloud, holding one pentacle. The five-pointed star (representing the five points of the human body—the head, hands and feet) points upwards within the circle, and the square thumbnail symbolises the earthy, practical nature of Pentacles types. The emotional body, or aura, is visible around this hand, which extends from spirit—the universe or the source of all things.

Beneath this, a garden is in bloom, hedged in and protected from the wind. A path extends beyond this garden towards the hills in the distance. The garden symbolises the connection Pentacles types have with nature. The path leads to the mountains, suggesting that with your Pentacles practicality, your investment of money, time or energy can bring great rewards.

The hand depicted in the card securely holds the pentacle, suggesting that you are able to hold on to money at this time.

General meaning

The Ace of Pentacles deals with practical beginnings. It indicates that you have enough money, energy or the necessary ingredients to start a new project. It suggests that you will be able to cover your expenses. No matter how much money is being spent at present there is enough to go around.

In a career reading, the Ace of Pentacles can suggest a new career or a new stage in your career. The path leading out of the garden shows how far you can go with this opportunity. If you take this pentacle and invest it and work with it, it will smooth the path to your destination.

In a health reading, this card suggests money being spent on improving or maintaining your health. It can signify an investment in your continued health. In a travel reading, it represents being able to afford a holiday. In a question about your home environment, it suggests you are able to afford your home, home renovations or maintenance.

Relationship meaning

The Ace of Pentacles can suggest that you are beginning a relationship with someone you have met through your career or work environment. The relationship may lead to career opportunities, a business partnership or financial consolidation.

You can afford to pursue this relationship financially or physically, and it holds potential for material success. The Ace represents a solid, grounded start to a relationship, or to a new stage of a relationship.

Ace of Pentacles reversed

When the Ace of Pentacles is reversed the hand extending from the spirit is no longer able to hold on to the pentacle, suggesting that money or opportunities are slipping through your fingers. In a financial reading, this card suggests that no matter how much money is coming in, more is going out.

In a general sense, it signifies lost opportunities or an inability to begin new projects. These delays could be due to a shortage of money. Although this opportunity is a physical one, it can still offer spiritual growth.

An inability to come to grips with the material world can be suggested by the Ace reversed; ‘The goals I might achieve but for the lack of money’. It can also show an ungrounded person missing an opportunity. You might be better at spending money than at earning it.

When reversed the pentacle describes desires dominating thinking. When your desire for possessions or expensive experiences is greater than your income the result is debt. Credit cards were designed for people with stronger desires than discipline.

In a relationship, the reversed Ace of Pentacles can point to a love relationship partner who is draining the other partner financially. When Toby complained that he was always penniless, his wife took him on a short walk to the garage, which housed two 1960s sports cars in the process of being restored. ‘You’re a working man with a rich man’s tastes,’ she stated, adding ‘and I’m supporting both of us.’

Two of Pentacles

The Two of Pentacles contains a juggler. He is juggling his money, his physical energy or talents in order to find a balance between those things he feels obliged to do and the things he loves to do. He could be juggling a career and personal interests. The loop around the two pentacles forms an infinity sign, suggesting that money is a form of energy that moves continuously.

The boats on the waves symbolise the tides of life. When your personal tide is in, money and opportunities flow to you easily. When your personal tide is out, these material opportunities are less evident. The juggler’s focus is on the lower pentacle, or the money which is going out (being spent).

He is clothed in orange and red, and his feet are in constant movement. This confirms the physical effort he puts into earning his pentacles and into spending them. The Two represents the weighing up of opportunities. This time they appear on a physical or material plane. It signifies a time to decide between two alternatives. Can you afford to do this now or are you better off waiting until later?

General meaning

The Two of Pentacles can describe the act of deciding between two alternatives, such as a choice between time and money, or paying one account and delaying another. It can represent a decision regarding money, or simply organising your time and energy in order to be able to do what you want to do.

You can afford your lifestyle now, because you are paying attention to your expenses.

In a career reading, the Two suggests the act of deciding between two job offers or two career directions. In a study question it shows the act of contemplating two career paths which may emerge as a result of the study.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Two of Pentacles represents weighing up relationship opportunities or a decision about a relationship based on financial considerations. For example, during a recent reading a woman explained to me that her final decision between two men was based on what each man could offer her financially. She chose the wealthier man without taking into account any emotional considerations, then complained that he was emotionally unsupportive and too busy working day and night.

The Two can signify a decision regarding a new stage of a relationship that will cost money. Perhaps you are considering buying a house or deciding to start a family, and you are weighing up the costs.

Two of Pentacles reversed

When the Two of Pentacles appears reversed it shows that you have an increased awareness of what you have to give up in order to pursue a certain path or project. The Two reversed can suggest a decision between two alternatives, without the option of pursuing all of the possibilities.

It can also indicate that you are spreading yourself or your finances too thinly, or overreaching yourself. A low tide follows a high tide, and this is the time for ridding yourself of costly and unnecessary financial commitments or possessions.

In a relationshp layout the reversed Two can highlight the financial considerations of pursuing a love relationship. When Rosalyn considered moving from the city to live with Stephen in a small country town, she was aware that her job opportunities were likely to be limited in the new location. The long-term outcome of this move may have been measured in hundreds of thousands of dollars over a lifetime of employment.

Three of Pentacles

In the Three of Pentacles there is a sculptor or stonemason (left), a clergyman (middle) and an architect (right). The priest and the architect examine the plans of the church while the tradesman works. This card combines the elements of Air (the carefully drawn plans), Water (the spiritual purpose of the building) and Fire (the physical effort of building the church) to produce something which is tangible, practical and earthy (the church itself).

The three pentacles form an upward triangle (a symbol of Fire), and beneath this there is a flower inside a downward triangle (a symbol of Water). The Fire triangle keeps us aware of spiritual values, while the Water triangle encourages us to share these values with people around us; to live according to our beliefs instead of having lofty ideals that cannot be attained.

This card represents laying solid foundations to build something of lasting worth. Perhaps you are building a house, beginning a course of study that will advance you, or putting in the groundwork for a solid relationship or business.

The Three of Pentacles is a positive card for self-development. When it appears in a layout with the High Priestess or the Seven of Cups it can signify psychic or spiritual development is occurring as a result of study or the practical application of ideas.

General meaning

The Three of Pentacles indicates it’s time to do something that will improve your circumstances. It may be starting a course, reading books or simply learning on the job if it appears in a career reading. You have an opportunity to build something of lasting value.

In a health reading, the Three suggests you are learning about your health and what is required to maintain it in the long term. Laying solid foundations for long-term rewards is shown by this card.

Relationship meaning

The Three of Pentacles can describe your efforts to build and maintain a relationship. You may be reading books on relationships, studying relationship dynamics, putting more effort into an existing partnership, or undergoing therapy for unresolved issues from previous relationships. It indicates that you are building something lasting or improving a relationship through effort.

Three of Pentacles reversed

The Three of Pentacles reversed indicates that you are ignoring or wasting your opportunities for self-advancement through study or learning. It can suggest a lack of commitment to furthering yourself by not finishing a course of study, or by giving up too soon.

George turned up the Three reversed when asking about a course he was about to start. I told him that he needed to be more committed if he wanted to complete the course. He protested loudly that he was very committed, yet within six months he had missed exams, dropped one subject and hadn’t attended many of his classes. Eight months into the one-year course he became bored with the idea of completing it and planned to travel instead.

The Three of Pentacles reversed can indicate a failure to learn from a situation, resulting in the situation being repeated again and again. For example, you may have had a series of relationships which all ended the same way. If you fail to learn from the first relationship and take responsibility for your part in it you run the risk of repeating the pattern until you comprehend the lesson. Life is endlessly patient and will give you countless opportunities to learn the lesson.

In everyday terms, the Three of Pentacles reversed suggests that this is not the first time you have been in such a situation. You need to ask yourself what you can learn from this situation to avoid a repeat of it in the future. A fear of commitment can be shown by this card. It can also indicate an unchanging situation, such as a job or a relationship that isn’t going anywhere. You may need a solid foundation on which to build the future. It is necessary to return to the upright Two of Pentacles to make a decision regarding which path to take. Sometimes the reversed Three can show several projects begun and then abandoned.

In a career reading, the Three reversed can suggest teaching, as the reverse of learning can be teaching. This meaning is strengthened if it appears in a layout with the Temperance card.

Four of Pentacles

The Four of Pentacles shows a man who needs money to feel fulfilled. It is in his hands, under his feet and on his head (his mind). All the Fours of the Tarot share the meaning of consolidation. In the Four of Pentacles it is financial consolidation; it’s the act of making a financial situation solid or real.

The person in this card is alone, and he must take care that he does not isolate himself from other people in favour of money or material possessions. The need for stability and security has consumed him to the point where he finds it difficult to go beyond money and into life.

The Four of Pentacles indicates the astrological sign of Taurus, especially if it appears beside the Hierophant or the King of Pentacles. Part of the Taurean lesson in life involves learning the true value of people in relation to possessions.

In business terms, it represents a stable and profitable situation. It can suggest a general financial stability. In a negotiation situation the Four describes a person who is closed off to new ideas or to change.

General meaning

The Four of Pentacles indicates that you are saving money, saving energy or simply holding back. In a question about travel, this card suggests that you are saving money for a holiday.

It can also indicate a move towards stabilising your financial situation by saving money, paying off debts and living within your means. Perhaps you are ensuring that more comes in than goes out by increasing your income or decreasing your expenses. The Four shows you doing one or both.

In a recent reading, a woman asked me if she should reinvest her money in a business situation when her present investment matured. The Four upright suggested that it was likely to be a sound financial investment.

Relationship meaning

The Four of Pentacles can suggest that one partner is more concerned with material assets than with the relationship. It can also suggest jealousy and possessiveness, as it can be difficult to hold on to material possessions without holding on emotionally and mentally. One partner may feel that the other belongs to them in the same way that their possessions belong to them.

Being aware of what you hope to receive when giving is shown by the Four of Pentacles; that is, an exchange of favours rather than a gift. This card can indicate selfishness and difficulty in giving without expecting to receive as much, or more, in return.

Four of Pentacles reversed

In financial terms, the Four of Pentacles reversed represents money slipping through your fingers. This may be intentional, such as when you spend more money while on holiday than you do at home.

The Four reversed can indicate generosity and freedom. In a relationship reading, it suggests that you are giving yourself freely and without restriction to your partner. It can sometimes show that you are giving more than you are receiving.

The Four reversed can also describe your inability to structure your life, your work or a relationship. When upright it suggests stability, but when reversed it can represent a lack of stability or freedom to change.

If this card appears reversed in a question about travel or a large purchase, and it’s not the outcome or the answer, it can suggest that you are not saving towards your goal. If it is the answer or outcome to this question, it can describe the spending of money, or the actual purchase taking place.

Five of Pentacles

The Fives in the Tarot represent change. They also share the meaning of narrow-mindedness when upright and broad-mindedness when reversed. That things will change is life’s only certainty. Change is only good or bad, or right or wrong according to your perspective.

The Five of Pentacles contains two cold, tired and hungry people. One of them is in poor health, indicating longstanding hardship. Behind them is a church window, offering them a spiritual alternative to their material existence. It signifies that the root cause of their physical circumstances is a spiritual emptiness.

They can choose to find, follow and fulfil their spiritual path. The church represents an introduction to spiritual values for those who might otherwise not bother to seek them. In the Five, these people don’t see this offer, thereby missing an opportunity for change.

Although they are together, they feel alone. When you have a deep spiritual emptiness within, an inner hunger, loneliness and isolation are keenly felt. You become disconnected from life to some degree. The church behind the people in the card is symbolic of the sanctuary within them. Whenever you allow someone or something to come between you and God, or your spiritual source, you risk losing your way.

The Five of Pentacles represents separation. It is the recognition of feeling separate or alone, even when in company, rather than being physically separated from a person or situation. Sometimes you can feel more alone among people with whom you don’t connect than when you are by yourself.

The misery outside is a reflection of the misery within, and when the Five of Pentacles appears you need to accept the changes life offers you. If you want to change the world change yourself, is the key to this Five.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Five of Pentacles indicates financial troubles, poverty, illness and inner loneliness. In times of continual struggle it is easy to narrow your focus to the point where you overlook opportunities.

Deep spiritual change is required when this Five appears, and although outside help is offered it is unlikely to solve your problems. Your current beliefs about life do not support you. You must now question whether you are willing to support these beliefs.

The Five of Pentacles represents the physical symptoms of spiritual emptiness. In a career reading, it indicates unemployment or uninteresting work, and suggests that you nurse an attitude which perpetuates the situation. For example, I once worked with a woman who hated each and every moment she spent at work, travelling to and from work, and even thinking about work. When I suggested she resign and seek more suitable employment, she replied, ‘No way. I’ve only got 12 years to go until retirement.’ She allowed herself no alternative to a situation which made her completely miserable.

Relationship meaning

The Five of Pentacles suggests a separation between you and your partner, and that, regardless of whether you separate or remain together, you are alone and lonely. This relationship shows the symptoms of a spiritual emptiness. You are hungry on a level which nothing physical or emotional can feed.

This card suggests that it might be an appropriate time to reacquaint yourself with your true purpose in life. Inner change is required before your hunger can subside.

Five of Pentacles reversed

The Five of Pentacles is a more positive card when reversed than when upright. It suggests that a change is coming and, no matter how much you fear the unknown, this change brings opportunities and choices.

It can describe a release from a person or a situation because you allow change to occur. All the reversed Fives in the Tarot are cards of change, and recognising that your current way of dealing with a situation is not the only way ensures that you are open to change. Life does not have to stand still. You can change, and as you change deep down, life changes what it offers you on the surface.

The reversed Five suggests that you are becoming open-minded. The worst is behind you now, and as you continue to change, life mirrors your inner self in the opportunities it presents to you. After the changes presented in the Five, it is time to return to the upright Four of Pentacles to enjoy the financial and emotional stability offered there.

In a relationship question the reversed Five of Pentacles signals a separation which is positive. It offers the chance to breathe again after a difficult period spent holding your breath in a relationship.

When Ted separated from Danika he experienced a deep sense of inner peace and stillness, after months of arguments and recriminations. Danika too, soon realised that life became more stable (a return to the Four of Pentacles) without Ted. A separation, the avenue that both partners had endeavoured to avoid, turned out ot be an opportunity instead of a disaster.

In a financial question the reversed Five of Pentacles suggests a period of financial stability; a return to the financial consolidation offered in the upright Four.

Six of Pentacles

The Six of Pentacles is a many layered card, and its meaning varies according to the question or the surrounding cards. In this card, we see a rich man sharing his wealth with two beggars. This seems to be fair and just. Note, however, that the beggars are kneeling before the wealthy man. He is in a position of power in this relationship. The Six describes a relationship where one person dominates the other.

In a career or work situation the Six of Pentacles signifies an agreement to give your time and effort (or energy) in return for a specific payment. This is a fair arrangement. The scales in the rich man’s hand are balanced, suggesting that both parties will be happy with the arrangement. Perhaps one seeks to dominate while the other wants to be submissive. Stability exists and comfort keeps this arrangement intact. For example, in a work environment the employee does not have the ultimate responsibility for the success or failure of a project, and management don’t have to concern themselves with the day-to-day running of it. Each person has their own role to play in what can be a mutually beneficial arrangement.

General meaning

The Six of Pentacles can indicate that you are in the process of changing your job, securing a new job, hiring tradespeople, employing others or spending money on something large such as a house or a car. In a question about a business venture, it can signify borrowing money to get started.

The Six of Pentacles indicates a stable financial situation, and suggests that you are happy to continue on your present course. Financial stability exists when this card appears in a layout.

Relationship meaning

The Six of Pentacles describes a relationship where one person dominates the other. This can be in a very subtle way. For example, one partner might say: ‘Don’t get too excited now, dear. Remember your heart condition.’ Although this sounds like responsible concern for a partner, it may be a way of controlling them by ensuring they do not enjoy themselves or become too spontaneous.

When upright, the Six suggests that you dominate your partner, whereas a reversed Six suggests the opposite. An upright Six can show that you only give what you won’t miss, or that you only give a little even though you have a lot. It is possible that the person receiving what you have to give can’t accept any more than they are being given. Once again, this suggests a comfortable arrangement.

Whether you dominate or are dominated in a relationship, there can be limited real closeness when one person has a greater share of the power.

The upright Six can suggest that the partner with the higher and more secure income stream has more control over the direction of the relationship.

Six of Pentacles reversed

When reversed the Six of Pentacles signifies that a stable situation has ended or has been disrupted. Perhaps you have resigned from your job or have been retrenched. Possibly your relationship has ended. This might be because you (or your partner) have broken away from your role in the relationship.

The Six reversed also describes spending a lot of money, or a lack of control over your finances. You might be living beyond your means. It suggests a return to the upright Five of Pentacles to experience the poverty which results from undisciplined spending. When a pentacle is reversed the star within the circle points downwards. This suggests that your desires are governing your mind. The result of unchecked desires and continued spending is spiralling debt and a loss of security when your debtors seek payment or repossession of goods.

In a relationship reading, it indicates that your partner probably has more control over the relationship than you do. In spiritual terms, it can indicate an inability to receive on a physical, emotional or mental level.

When the reversed Six appeared in Claudia’s reading, she explained how she gave away her inheritance to her brother, in the hope that he might offer her a home in old age. Her brother spent the seven-figure sum on his business and rarely spoke to Claudia again. Because she exercised no control over her finances, she was forced to return to the upright Five of Pentacles, in the form of a run down hostel as her final home. Once a year her brother allowed her to spend a weekend in his holiday home in the country.

Seven of Pentacles

The Seven of Pentacles portrays a man staring at a bush covered in pentacles (his money tree), while he has one pentacle at his feet. He is leaning on his staff, thinking or dreaming of what he will do with his crop. He sees it in terms of capital. He has kept aside one pentacle for his immediate needs and he is watching the others grow. His efforts are bearing fruit.

The Seven of Pentacles represents a crossroads. However, no great dramas or urgent decisions are visible here, for steady practical effort has ensured a balanced crop. In the Ace there was action, but now it is time to reflect on past actions and future plans. Watching his crop, he can see which actions were useful and which were wasted.

Don’t give up is the meaning shared by all of the upright Sevens in the Tarot. Large rewards are available from now on, if he is wise in his actions. The crop will survive by itself and he need not tend it as carefully as before. This can signify a relationship or a business that is stable enough to exist without your constant attention and effort. You have an opportunity to step back now and see the situation in a broader context.

General meaning

The Seven of Pentacles represents a time of reflection and planning for the future. Your life or current situation is balanced and stable, and you have time to quietly plan your future steps. These could involve further study, a greater emphasis on leisure, careful management of existing finances or even a second career to complement your existing one. Take your time to think about your life circumstances, because your decisions are likely to have significant consequences in the future. The Seven describes the act of asking yourself, ‘Where am I heading?’ and ‘Where do I want to be in five or ten years from now?’ It is a time of reflection and planning for the future.

In a question about business, it can suggest a financial plan is being created or updated. The man pictured in the card lives on the interest and not the principal investment. Hence only one pentacle is set aside for personal spending.

Relationship meaning

The Seven of Pentacles describes a time of reflection about a relationship. Perhaps you are planning your future together, and are considering your financial security as a foundation to your long-term relationship.

You may be thinking of new and greater challenges to ensure your interest in this partnership doesn’t wane, or, if you are not presently in a relationship, you may be pondering your long-term needs and hopes. It is a time to reflect on past relationships, or past stages of your present relationship, to determine where you are likely to be in the future.

Seven of Pentacles reversed

When reversed, the Seven of Pentacles can indicate an inner dissatisfaction with your immediate situation. For example, dissatisfaction with a relationship or a career which does not seem to lead anywhere. One possible cause may be that you have not taken the time to reflect on what is useful and what is unnecessary, and as a result your situation remains unchanged. Perhaps you have not realised that the time has come to think about long-term goals and plans. Instead you carry on working and keeping yourself busy, and miss an opportunity to reflect and learn or plan.

If the reversed Seven of Pentacles appears in a layout beside the Four of Swords it can suggest that you have stopped for far too long and that you risk losing touch with your present surroundings or inner needs. Don’t hold on is a meaning shared by all the reversed Sevens. Don’t hold on to the old way of doing things.

This can suggest that ingrained habits and resistance to change prevent you from realising how a new approach may benefit you. For example, you may have built a business into a large organisation, but have not changed to keep pace with its growth. Perhaps you can still be found doing the accounts books at the end of the day when you might be better placed planning the long-term direction of the business.

Sometimes the reversed Seven describes a pattern that involves starting projects and not staying around to ensure a successful conclusion. When reversed, the man depicted in the card plants his trees and moves on before the trees can bear fruit.

Eight of Pentacles

The Eight of Pentacles shows a tradesman. He works diligently on one pentacle, while another lies at his feet awaiting his trained hands. The six pentacles hanging on the wall symbolise past success. A town or city is visible in the background, which is where the finished product will be sold or traded.

This card suggests a deeper commitment to a person or a situation. The town in the background is the same town visible in the Four of Pentacles. While in the Four you were focused on money, now your focus is on your skills and how to refine them. This refinement can occur through patient effort or through further study.

In the Eight of Pentacles the tradesman is aware of what is needed in the town, of the quality and potential of the materials, and of what he wants to create. Eight is a powerful number for business, and has long been the number favoured by the Chinese for financial enterprises. It is also a number that relates to the use of personal power and inner strength, confirmed by the fact that the Major Arcana Eight is the Strength card. (Arthur Waite numbered the Strength card eight and the Justice card 11 in accordance with numerology. They may be numbered differently in other Tarot decks.)

The Eight shows that you have found your place in the community and are doing what suits you. You are aware that work was not supposed to be tedious, but a chance to complete yourself. Work is not merely to fill your time, your stomach or your pockets, but rather to make you whole.

‘Work is love made visible’, wrote Kahlil Gibran in his book The Prophet. ‘You work that you may keep pace with the earth and the soul of the earth. For to be idle is to become a stranger unto the seasons, and to step out of life’s procession that marches in majesty and proud submission towards the infinite.’ The Eight of Pentacles suggests that if you don’t enjoy the work you do now, go out and find work you do enjoy. Your very best work will be a labour of love.

General meaning

The Eight of Pentacles indicates commitment to a person or a situation. In a career reading, it is a card of success, and indicates a chance to build on a previous success. In a travel reading, it suggests travel related to career. In a health reading, it describes a commitment to improving or maintaining health.

The Eight can also indicate a course of study that will enable you to specialise in a particular field. For example, if you are a psychologist you may choose to complete a course in grief counselling or industrial workplace relations in order to pursue these fields as a specialty. Or if you are a professional musician you may decide to learn another instrument to broaden your scope for employment.

Relationship meaning

The Eight of Pentacles indicates that you have a deep commitment to a relationship, to meeting its needs and to building something lasting. It can be a time when you have to put extra effort into your relationship so that it can grow into a new and better stage. It can describe a commitment to a marriage, to having a child, or to financially supporting your partner while he or she is raising a child.

Eight of Pentacles reversed

The Eight of Pentacles reversed indicates a lack of commitment to the task or situation at hand. You want great rewards, but you make minimal effort to achieve them. Perhaps you lack the discipline or the skills required to fulfil your plans. It is necessary to return to the lesson of the Seven, to reflect on how you can apply yourself and where exactly it is that you want to go.

In a career reading, the Eight reversed can suggest you don’t enjoy your work, but see it as a step towards success. However, because you don’t enjoy it and your emphasis is entirely on the desired success, your work will suffer and success may elude you or be short-lived. It can also describe work that is boring and repetitive, requiring no skill and offering few rewards.

In a relationship reading, the Eight reversed describes a lack of commitment. Perhaps it is time to return to the upright Seven to reflect on what you desire from a love relationship and where you want to go in your relationship. If the Seven of Swords also appears in the layout it shows that greater commitment is being given elsewhere, such as in another relationship. Impatience, frustration, or unfulfilled ambition and sloppy work are sometimes indicated by the Eight reversed.

Nine of Pentacles

The Nine of Pentacles shows a woman surrounded by the fruits of her labours. Her right hand rests on six pentacles and her thumb secures a bunch of grapes. A hooded bird sits on her left hand. The bird is about to be set free, once she has removed its hood. But while the bird wears the hood it submits its will to her.

The woman’s clothing suggests that she is materially comfortable. She has a serene expression on her face, and bright skies forecast continuing success as she stands there surrounded by nature, feeling grounded.

From the beginning in the Ace, the decisions made in the Two, the study of the Three, the rewards of the Four, the reminder of the Five to change, the delegating of responsibility in the Six, the reassessment of the Seven and the further commitment of the Eight, we arrive at the rewards of the Nine. The Nine of Pentacles offers a financially comfortable lifestyle, which enables the woman to reflect on her deeper needs.

Her success is no accident. Through commitment, labour, discipline, learning and reassessment she has steadily built up something tangible that will stand her in good stead for the future. She is surrounded by and connected to life. Through careful planning and steady commitment to her goals she controls her surroundings.

General meaning

The Nine of Pentacles is a card for the self-confidence or self-reliance that is necessary to achieve more than average results. Your self-confidence, when paired with self-discipline, will bring you rewards on many levels.

If the Nine appears beside the Empress in a layout it can suggest a pregnancy. In a health, career or relationship reading, the Nine describes a comfortable success.

It reflects a time of stability and comfort, the result of past efforts. Outsiders may consider you lucky, but your success is due to both careful planning and commitment.

Relationship meaning

The Nine of Pentacles represents a comfortable, successful relationship, where material success allows you to pursue your personal interests and goals. Financial independence and material goals feature strongly in this relationship. As long as you remain grounded, things flow smoothly.

The bird in this card wears a hood, and because of this loses some of its freedom. The woman has also lost some of her freedom, but she is aware that this is the price for such success. Self-discipline requires choices which can sometimes force you to give up spontaneity. The rewards for this include stability and material comfort.

NIne of Pentacles reversed

The Nine of Pentacles reversed suggests a lack of success owing to an absence of self-discipline. It indicates an inability to follow goals through to completion. You want the rewards of success without having to put in the necessary work.

In everyday terms, the Nine reversed describes too much effort going into worthless projects or activities: for example, a ballet dancer who spends too many days and nights waiting on tables in a restaurant to have the time, energy or enthusiasm to pursue dancing.

The Nine reversed shows that you are making too much effort for too little reward, or not enough money to enjoy the lifestyle you seek. It is time to return to the Eight and to work with love, or to the Seven to reflect on past actions and to decide on the best course of action.

It can also indicate that you are starting one thing after another, but not completing anything. You are not allowing the seeds you plant enough time to bear fruit. In a career reading, the Nine reversed can indicate a job that involves night or weekend work, anti-social hours, or simply too many hours per week. It is necessary to return to the upright Eight of Pentacles to rediscover the rewards of commitment to your goals.

The Nine reversed can also suggest a pregnancy which does not run its full course; that is, a termination or a miscarriage. If you are already eight or nine months pregnant it can suggest a birth.

In a relationship question the Nine reversed indicates that financial pressures or the demands of long working hours are limiting your ability to pursue or maintain an ongoing relationship. While potential partners are out socialising, you are likely to be working a late shift.

Ten of Pentacles

The Ten of Pentacles shows a solid, comfortable home environment. The family coat of arms on the wall confirms that this is old money and an established environment. There are animals, children, plants bearing fruit, and a wall for privacy and protection. The sky is blue and the town is close by. This family also has everything that contributes to a comfortable material existence.

Why then, does no person face another in this card? The old man is seated, his attention turned towards the animals. The younger man faces away from our view and the woman faces away from him, but turning slightly to continue a conversation. The child is ignored. These people have no real connection to one another. They have achieved materially what others long for, but it appears to have left them bored and locked into a routine without which they are lost.

The Ten of Pentacles is a manifestation of the suit’s full potential. It lacks the enthusiasm of the Wands, the ideas of the Swords and the feelings of the Cups. Material security and stability are found here, but at a price.

General meaning

The Ten of Pentacles is a card for material success. It represents completion, success in business, or a large purchase (a house, car, boat or business). If it appears with two other upright Tens in a spread the signing of contracts is likely.

The success indicated by the Ten is long lasting, and in a business reading it can indicate success generating more success. In a question about the sale of a house or business, the Ten shows that the money is there and that a completed sale is likely.

In a career reading, the Ten describes a solid, established business containing opportunities for promotion and success. It can describe a large corporation or a government department, or a small business which contracts to a corporation or to the government. In a question about a legal case, this card and the Six of Pentacles can suggest a payout in your favour.

Relationship meaning

The Ten of Pentacles describes a relationship that is linked to career. Perhaps you are in business with your relationship partner or you met this person through a work or business situation. Great financial success is evident here, with one partner being financially secure, or it could indicate that you and your partner are a dynamic combination in business together.

There is not the closeness in this relationship that you might expect from the Ten of Cups, but priorities are probably different for those involved in this relationship.

Ten of Pentacles reversed

The Ten of Pentacles reversed can indicate a lack of solid foundation in an enterprise. For example, Roger and Melinda wanted to sell their business, a clothes shop. They had worked six or seven days a week for nearly seven years, and desperately needed a break from the pressure, the bills and the lifestyle generally. A man approached them with an offer. It was less than they had anticipated, but he seemed quite reasonable and they were not about to hold on another six months for a better offer.

Melinda came to me for a reading, and her question about the sale of the shop to this man turned up the Ten of Pentacles reversed.

‘I don’t believe he has the financial backing,’ I explained to her.

‘The man drives a Rolls Royce. Of course he has the backing!’ She added another card to the Ten—the Nine of Pentacles reversed.

‘Now I’m sure he doesn’t have the money,’ I stated unequivocally. She went away shaking her head.

We met again ten weeks later. ‘How did you go with the sale?’ I asked gingerly.

‘He didn’t have any money. I’m sure the car was borrowed,’ she said with disgust. ‘But we found another buyer and we exchange contracts on Friday.’

Sometimes the boredom seen in the upright card can lead to taking financial and emotional risks when the Ten is reversed. It is a card of gambling. Not only gambling with money, but also taking unnecessary chances in a business or financial venture.

In a relationship reading the reversed Ten can suggest that one partner is focused on business or financial issues to the detriment of the relationship. Sometimes it describes a partner with poor financial attitudes and habits, which may be stifling the relationship. Despite being a successful barrister Timothy was always in debt and his wife was despairing of ever feeling financially secure. The reversed Ten confirmed that their financial struggles were likely to continue. With three children in expensive private schools, an enormous house to maintain, two foreign cars, piano lessons, a part-time gardener and Timothy’s love of rare wines, they lived month to month, juggling seven credit cards between them. Each reversed Pentacle represented a desire which simply had to be fulfilled, and each desire drove them further into debt.

In a relationship reading, the Ten reversed shows that you are placing too much emphasis on material possessions, which may result in emotional isolation. It describes an unstable financial situation; for example, in a question about buying a house it suggests that you may have some difficulty raising the finance or that you may overcommit yourself financially.

In a career reading, the Ten of Pentacles reversed can suggest that there is a great deal of competition for the few available opportunities. It indicates a lack of money or a problem in the financial affairs of the company concerned. It sometimes represents a shrinking economy or a recession. At these times it may be worthwhile to return to the upright Nine of Pentacles to ensure personal financial stability and to reflect on how best to proceed through an impending financial winter.

Page of Pentacles

The Page of Pentacles has his feet firmly planted on the ground. He holds one glorious pentacle, the object of his fascination. As this Page is the airy part of Earth, it is appropriate that he is thinking about and planning projects that revolve around money and material possessions.

The Page of Pentacles can indicate the serious commitment required to commence a new project or stage of a project successfully. Grounded in reality (his feet on the earth), you can work steadily towards your goal when this Page appears in a layout. Bright skies suggest a hopeful outlook and likely success due to careful planning. This is a card which often represents study as a form of preparation for career or financial stability.

As a description of a person, the Page has dark hair and eyes, is practical and steady, and enjoys nature, the outdoors and animals. This is a serious, earthy child or young person. Often they are old before they are young. Their dreams are much more realistic than those of the Page of Swords, more careful than the Page of Wands, and less idealistic than those of the Page of Cups. This Page can indicate an older person if he or she is beginning something new, something with which they are unfamiliar. The Page represents acquiring new skills when commencing a job or project.

General meaning

The Page of Pentacles depicts a serious young person who is focused on long-term goals. The Page can signify news about money, a new job or a course of study. It can show a commitment to a new job or to learning something which will produce real results.

This Page often represents the practical application of the student. Through a course of study, or by learning on the job, you apply yourself. Sometimes the Page can suggest that you may become more engrossed in the subject you are learning than in the outcome of your studies.

One Page of Pentacles I know, at 14 years of age, was owed hundreds of dollars by each member of his family, including his parents. He saved all his pocket money diligently and worked each Saturday afternoon for extra money. When any members of his family ran out of money he offered to lend them some. These were high-interest, short-term loans requiring repayment in full at the end of the month with 10 per cent interest. He appeared to be the only member of the family of five able to live within his means. The other members of his family are all Air (Swords) and Fire (Wands) types.

Relationship meaning

The Page of Pentacles indicates a strong commitment to a relationship. The Page in a relationship reading can signify a commitment to a new relationship or to a new stage or direction within an existing one.

Sometimes this Page describes a serious, practical young person who may be the client or the client’s relationship partner. It can also describe a cautious, practical approach to love relationships.

Page of Pentacles reversed

The Page of Pentacles reversed suggests a lack of commitment. It describes someone who is immature, which manifests as restlessness, changeability, the inability to follow through with a plan, or dissipated energy. It can suggest that you are ungrounded, lacking direction and scattered in your focus.

In a relationship reading, this Page reversed can signify a lack of commitment, with a focus on sensual pleasure and the pursuit of sexual conquest. When it appears beside the Three of Pentacles it indicates you are unsure about continuing your commitment to study, or simply that you have completed a course of study and can now rescind your commitment to it.

An example of this Page reversed occurred with Carla. She was about to leave for an extended overseas trip and had sold her car—or at least she thought she had. She asked me how the sale would proceed and the Page of Pentacles appeared reversed. The man who had given Carla a small deposit to hold the car as he raised the remaining money was about to change his mind. Carla telephoned the following day to say that the buyer was unable to raise the finance.

The reversed Page can also point to plans which are impractical or financially unsound.

Knight of Pentacles

The Knight of Pentacles is the most serious of the Knights, and he is sedentary compared with the movement of the others. He wants to know exactly what the investment of his time, effort, energy and his pentacle will bring him in return. He likes to plan and he is tenacious with his plans, working tirelessly towards his goals.

The Knight of Pentacles is often tall, thin and serious by nature, and his colouring is usually dark hair, with blue or dark eyes. Although he is usually aged between 21 and 30 years, he can be mentally much older and more responsible than his age suggests. He is often emotionally immature, however, as his emotions tend to suffer at the hands of his ambition. He dedicates himself to the pursuit of material security, and does not overcome his serious nature until he reaches his late fifties. The Knight of Pentacles can be a card for the astrological sign of Capricorn, as can the Devil card in the Major Arcana.

The Knight of Pentacles represents the fiery part of Earth—enthusiasm, effort and energy put to practical and purposeful use. Money and material wealth often come first with him, and when he feels that he can afford it, he seeks a partner (that is, if she has not been waiting around patiently for some years). This young man knows that he will be materially successful, and tends to choose a partner whom he thinks will be comfortable among the people he will mix with later in his career. He perceives love relationships as a long-term investment.

He looks beyond his pentacle to see which paths are available to him and the likely results of each one. While planning ahead (Fire), he is nevertheless stationary (Earth) until he has a plan. He is often responsible, hard-working and independent. He would prefer to have his own business as he detests being told what to do by other people. He seeks control over his life and over himself, to the point of working too hard. While the other Knights are out playing, loving, travelling and exploring, the Knight of Pentacles is working, learning and organising his future. When the other Knights turn their attention to careers, he is far ahead of them.

General meaning

The Knight of Pentacles often refers to consolidating your plans and moving towards concrete goals. It means being prepared to put in the hard work necessary to achieve a goal.

As a person, this man takes commitment very seriously, whether it’s to his career, personal ambition or a relationship. He often lives by the saying: ‘If you want something done properly, do it yourself.’

Relationship meaning

The Knight of Pentacles takes commitment very seriously; he will either avoid relationships until he feels that he is going places with his career, or he will marry to secure the long-term commitment of his partner. Stability is essential to success in the eyes of the Knight of Pentacles. He loves stability and predictability, and will endure a very difficult situation rather than change it.

He can be aloof emotionally, although he has a soft centre that he keeps well hidden. He often has a few unresolved issues with his father, and can become like his father at a very early age. He is a good provider, conservative in tastes and careful with his reputation. He tends to relax more in later life.

Knight of Pentacles reversed

When reversed, the Knight of Pentacles can be lazy and unmotivated in almost all areas in life but one, which he will approach with religious zeal. He is less likely to commit himself than the upright Knight, being cold and aloof. He may resent authority and will often clash with his father or a father figure.

In everyday terms, the Knight reversed describes an inability to consolidate long-term plans, or delays in achieving progress. When referring to a person, this card can suggest that you relate your self-worth to what you contribute or achieve, rather than who you are. The Knight of Pentacles reversed indicates that you may be forced to rely on others at the moment. This is likely to make you uncomfortable, as you may feel that you have less control over your life and yourself. It is time for patience.

In a relationship reading the reversed Knight can describe a man who desires wealth without effort and one who seeks out a partner who might give him the lifestyle he believes he deserves.

Sometimes when the reversed Knight of Pentacles appears in a relationship reading it describes a man who hasn’t yet found the career which will make him successful and as a result he has all of his attention focused on career instead of relationship. Be prepared to be patient with the reversed Knight if you want an ongoing love relationship, because he’ll have time for you after he achieves his career and financial goals.

Queen of Pentacles

The Queen of Pentacles sits quietly upon her solidly carved seat and patiently reflects upon her life and her pentacle. Nature surrounds her; there are red roses overhead, a rabbit in the bottom right-hand corner and a river behind her. The sky is bright and all is well with her.

The Queen of Pentacles represents the watery part of Earth. This combination of Water and Earth is evident in her ability to stop and to feel success within. She is proud of her physical body and is committed to looking after it. Earthy people generally look after themselves and their health. They pay attention to diet and exercise, have regular contact with nature and enjoy being physical. The Queen of Pentacles can be a card for the astrological sign of Libra (especially if alongside the Empress or Justice in a layout), but it can also represent any of the Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn).

The Queen of Pentacles is an earthy person and feels at home in the countryside. She has an affinity with plants and animals, and in her later years a garden can become a great source of joy. Her steady patient nature and her love of routine encourages plants to thrive. Whereas the Queen of Wands will often drown or starve her garden or indoor plants, the Queen of Pentacles ensures that feeding the plants and animals around her is part of her routine.

The Queen of Pentacles knows her abilities and her limits because she has tested them. She will work hard and enjoy it, as it helps her feel worthwhile. She combines strength of character with emotional understanding, in a practical way. She can enjoy preparing and eating good food, and, as a partner, loves touching and being touched.

General meaning

In everyday terms, the Queen of Pentacles is a card for trusting your abilities. It indicates success through the practical application of thoughts and desires.

As a person, the Queen of Pentacles usually has sound business sense, and she always likes to keep some money aside for peace of mind. She can be frugal when necessary and is not given to showy displays of wealth. A reliable, down-to-earth person, she knows where to put her efforts for greatest success.

This Queen is practical, supportive, and good at raising plants and animals. She also enjoys regular trips to the country or walks among nature, for she needs to remain connected to nature to feel whole and grounded.

Relationship meaning

The Queen of Pentacles suggests a practical commitment to a relationship in which down-to-earth values are respected. The Queen describes someone who is self-reliant, practical and realistic when approaching relationships. She values reliability over passion and excitement, for she thinks long term. As one Queen of Pentacles described it, ‘Passion lasts a night whereas friendship lasts a lifetime!’

This Queen is committed to helping her partner enjoy financial and career success and she is also a practical business partner.

Queen of Pentacles reversed

When the Queen of Pentacles appears reversed she lacks belief and confidence in herself and is ungrounded. This card can describe someone whose self-worth is dependent on what they contribute or achieve, not on who they are.

She can sometimes lack the ability to work for the financial security that she wants, and may marry for money, or worry about the lack of money without making any practical effort to secure financial stability. Out of touch with nature, plants and animals, and the earth’s rhythms, she seeks stability in material possessions. She needs the countryside or nature around her, for without them she can become ambitious and hungry for money and power.

In everyday terms, the Queen reversed represents a need to ground yourself once more. It is time to reassess your place in the world and to get away from your narrow material focus. There may be benefits in noticing the seasons, the cycles of life and similar natural patterns. Tall trees, deep rivers and wide, open spaces can lend perspective to your ambitions, worries and fears.

In a relationship reading the reversed Queen can describe a woman who has lost her confidence and self-worth. She is presently unable to value her contribution to her relationship or to see what she might offer a potential partner.

This lack of self-worth is often reflected in her working life, resulting in her working long hours for limited recognition or reward.

Sometimes the reversed Queen of Pentacles suggests that more self-confidence is required before you can achieve your career or financial plans. Despite completing her degree in accounting at university, Rachael continued working as an accounts assistant for two years. It was only after her friends and her partner pressed her to seek a better paid job that she examined her career options. Her self-doubt kept her in an unrewarding job.

King of Pentacles

The King of Pentacles represents the earthy part of Earth. He is grounded, practical, pragmatic, stubborn, territorial and hardworking. He sits proudly on his throne, holding his orb in one hand and his pentacle in the other. It is not enough for him to be comfortable in life as he must be able to feel and touch success. He is draped in grapes, suggesting that the fruits of his labours are in abundance, but he still requires nature to remain balanced.

The King of Pentacles is successful and he enjoys it. He has no need to rush off anywhere, to understand life or to find inner emotional peace like the other Kings, because he is aware that he lives in a material world and that material comforts can make a difference to the journey.

The King of Pentacles represents an earthy, mature man. He is solid, reliable and conservative. He fulfils his commitments and takes his responsibilities seriously. When this man is working you might find it hard to imagine him at rest, yet when he’s resting it is difficult to imagine him at work. He is not as adventurous as the King of Wands nor as creative as the King of Cups, but he succeeds through slow, steady steps and practical application. The King represents the successful businessman or professional. He makes a good business manager because he is practical and can usually do that which he asks of others. Because of his ‘hands on’ approach, he gets results.

This can be a card for the astrological sign of Taurus when it appears beside the Hierophant or the Four of Pentacles (note the two bulls’ heads on top of his throne, and the two carved into its base), or Gemini when it appears beside the Lovers.

General meaning

The King of Pentacles suggests success through the physical application of plans. It can also show practical efforts bringing material success. Sometimes it can suggest help is available, coming from a dark-haired, practical man with a down-to-earth approach.

As a person, this man loves food, music and animals as well as nature and material comforts. He can easily slip into a rut and become predictable, and he has to guard against becoming too conventional. He is responsible with money, and with managing his financial obligations and responsibilities. He is usually patient, but when out of temper, food often placates him.

In a health reading, the King can indicate tension stored in the neck and shoulders.

This card can suggest success through a steady, practical approach. Becoming an overnight success doesn’t appeal to this King, for he prefers to build his wealth in the same way he’d build a house—brick by brick.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the King of Pentacles suggests a sensual, earthy relationship, surrounded by material comforts. It can also refer to a man or woman born under the sign of Taurus.

When this King wants to show you that you are important to him he will give you material trinkets. He might offer you a job or give you material gifts, or perhaps lend you a car, a house or a flat for an extended period. He equates happiness with a comfortable lifestyle and possessions. If you complain that you are unhappy he may be puzzled. ‘What’s wrong? You have a nice house, a new car and good clothes. We travel twice a year, and you shop in New York and Paris when we holiday there. What more could you want?’ Although sometimes unadventurous, he is a stable, reliable partner.

King of Pentacles reversed

When the King of Pentacles is reversed, he is not nearly as good with money or material possessions as he at first appears. He often takes risks without first weighing up the consequences. He greatly desires money, yet will not work steadily for it. He can represent a failed businessman or a person of mediocre abilities.

In some cases, the King reversed suggests a dishonest businessman, or one who is open to bribes or who would use any means to achieve his goals. He is cut off from nature, and as a result he can place too great an emphasis upon material wealth. He craves possessions and comfort, and finds it difficult to rise above these needs for any worthwhile spiritual goal. Such goals are usually without worth to him because they are intangible.

The attitude embodied by the King reversed can be described as: ‘If I cannot see it or touch it, then I don’t believe it.’ When reversed, the King places a higher value on possessions than he does on people, and he can become bogged down in a mundane material existence. In everyday terms, the King reversed suggests that success in a particular situation will be short-lived, as there is a lack of practical application of plans.

In a relationship reading, the reversed King can describe a man whose poor financial attitudes and habits restrict a relationship. His desire for a large house without ample income to support it can limit a relationship to worry over financial demands. He loves good food, wine and company and is less hardworking than the upright King.

Sometimes the reversed King signifies a retired businessman who is taking time to ‘smell the roses’. He busies himself with a garden and comfortable, familiar routines.

Chapter 16

THE STORY OF THE SUIT OF PENTACLES

The four Pentacle Court cards represent a family: a father, mother, son and daughter. As the family is materially comfortable, the King puts aside some money for his children. He gives them a portion of their inheritance when they turn 18, 25 and then 30. As the Page grows up, he (or she) dreams of the money and how it will have grown by the time he receives it.

In the Ace, the first amount of money is handed to the Knight. He is a serious Knight and plans to use this money wisely, ensuring a solid return for his investment.

In the Two, he is deciding what to do with his money; whether to spend it or invest it.

In the Three, he invests some of it in his education. He trains in a profession.

In the Four, he enjoys the income from his profession as business grows.

Business continues to expand in the Five, so much so that he now has little or no time for himself and his life. He feels tired and empty as he works.

In the Six, he employs some staff and effectively buys back his own time.

He now manages this business venture.

In the Seven, he is thinking that to be truly successful he must learn more about staff management and business procedures so that he can finetune his skills.

In the Eight, he is studying again. He adds new skills to his existing knowledge so that he can enjoy even greater success.

This greater success is actualised in the Nine. He experiences great achievement and he is justly proud of his efforts.

In the Ten, he sits back while other people do the work. His hair is grey and he is content to observe from a comfortable distance as he tends to the animals.

He has become the King of Pentacles. His Queen is not far away, probably outside enjoying the garden.

Another story which illustrates the Suit of Pentacles is a real-life example. Pauline had always wanted to have her own business, so when she was retrenched from a job in a large hotel she decided to rent a stall at a local market. It was a humble beginning, and she invested a few hundred dollars in some wholesale glassware. She also erected a small clothes rack that displayed her first attempts at sewing: simple tops and skirts in bright colours with a one-size-fits-all philosophy. Her first day at the market was the Ace.

It only took a few weeks before she was faced with a decision about what she was going to sell. Glassware and clothing were not really a profitable mix for a stall, so she was faced with the Two, and a decision about her long-term direction.

She decided on clothing, and spent the following months mastering her new sewing machine. The Three found her learning her trade. During this time she paired up with another stall holder, Kate, and together they created quite a range of shirts, dresses, trousers and skirts.

The Four found them very busy during the spring and summer months, and they were making quite a lot of money. As Christmas approached, they were selling 20 per cent more stock each week than in the previous one.

The Five found them quarrelling with each other. They were tired, run-down and fed up with spending all day leaning over a cutting table or at the sewing machine. Their social lives were non-existent, and the money they had enjoyed in the Four didn’t seem to matter any more. It was only after Kate spent one Saturday hurling abuse at most of their potential customers that Pauline sat down with her and they talked.

They were both unhappy, but felt that their business was worth the effort if only they could have more time for themselves: time to swim in the blue-green ocean that glistened outside Kate’s window, time with their partners, but most of all, time for themselves. They realised that to have this time, they had to buy it. They decided to buy back their own time by employing someone to do some of the work for them.

Phyllis owned an overlocker, which could perform tasks in a third of the time it had taken Pauline and Kate, so the Six found them cutting out their patterns in the morning and delivering the fabric to Phyllis to sew. That summer they discovered the beach again.

Having this extra time was fun, but soon their thoughts turned to how they could improve their range, the quality of the clothes and find better fabrics. The Seven found them planning their future in this industry.

Pauline completed a night course in managing a small business, and Kate spent time with Phyllis, learning how certain patterns were simpler to put together and therefore cheaper. She also learned that one size does not usually fit all, so a variety of sizes and shapes were introduced. This is the Eight.

Their business continued to grow and several clothing boutique owners approached them about stocking their clothes, an opportunity they were happy to accept. Now they could enjoy the income, the beach and the lifestyle they had dreamed of when they first set out on this journey. They were enjoying the Nine.

As they became more organised, it occurred to them that there were more women like Phyllis, and that several people might be employed to cut out, sew and add buttons to the garments while they spent their time organising new markets. The Ten found them as coordinators rather than workers.

However, sometimes they complained that they did not have the same feel for the business as they once did, so they decided to create original pieces to order, while their real income took care of itself. They had reached the Queen of Pentacles.

For a colour preference, see The Story of the Suit of Pentacles chart in the colour section of the book.

One Card Readings

The simplest tarot reading is the One Card Cut. This is a good reading for simple Yes / No questions, or for gaining immediate insight into a problem or a situation.

The procedure for a One Card Cut is as follows.

1 Shuffle the pack briefly, using only those cards with which you are already familiar. If you have read the whole book use the whole pack. If you are working your way through this book, then use only those cards you have studied.

2 Place the pack face downwards on the table. While thinking clearly of your question, cut the pack.

3 Turn the cards in your hand over sideways until they are face upwards. The top card of the pack in your hand is the one you read.

Limit the number of questions you ask using the One Card Cut to two or three, or you may find yourself very confused. If you cannot relate the top card of the cut pack to your question, simply reveal the card immediately beneath it for additional information.

If you ask a Yes / No question using a One Card Cut, in many cases an upright card indicates a yes while a reversed card indicates a No. This depends on the card revealed. If you asked ‘Is it wise to take a camping holiday to Africa this year?’ an upright Ace of Wands indicates a Yes answer whereas an upright Tower card indicates great danger ahead for such a trip.

The Seven Card Layout

The seven card layout is useful for both general readings and for answering specific questions. Commencing a one-hour Tarot reading with a seven card general layout and following this with four or five layouts to answer specific questions generally satisfies the needs of most clients. I have also supplied a colour chart in the colour section in the book.

Some readers opt for 21 and 30 card layouts, and I wonder if this is little more than an easy way to work around the cards whose meanings they have forgotten. I believe it is best to keep it simple. Your client is probably already complicating their life enough without you adding to it. Your task as a reader involves simplifying problems so that your client is able to make a sound decision. The seven card layout is perfect for this, due to its simplicity. The procedure is as follows:

1 The client shuffles the pack, reversing some, and then they hand the pack to you, face down. The card at the bottom of the pack represents the client’s present situation or the reasonthey have consulted you for a reading.

2 Have the client place the cards one at a time into three piles until they have finished the pack. This ensures a perfect shuffle and that the energy of the client is in every card. Place the three piles together and slide the pack across the table in a fan shape.

3 With their eyes closed and using their non-writing hand, the client selects seven cards at random. As they select each card, they hand it to you, and you place each card into a large V formation (see diagram).

4 If it is a general reading (that is, a preliminary reading), then explain this to the client. If the layout relates to a question, you have to agree upon the question before they select any cards. When you are giving a reading allow the client a chance to absorb all your words by giving the answer to their question last, for once they hear the answer they may tune out. For example, if you are telling them that they won’t marry their current partner because someone even more suitable is in their future, they may not hear beyond a ‘No’. The meanings for the card positions for a seven card layout are as follows:

Card 1

This card details the past, up to 18 months.

Card 2

This card represents the present situation, up to four weeks either side of the date of the reading.

Card 3

This card describes the outcome of the present situation, in the near future. It covers up to three months.

Card 4

In a general reading, this card represents the person for whom you are reading. If this is a question layout (for example, what does the future hold for my relationship?) the fourth card represents the answer to the question.

Card 5

This card describes the energy around the client, or the energy around the situation if this is a question layout. Cards in this position could detail friends, work colleagues or the attitude of those involved with the client.

Card 6

This represents the hopes and fears of the client regarding the situation or the question.

Card 7

This card describes the outcome of the present situation or the outcome of the question. It is usually within 24 months of the present.

In a question phrased ‘Will I visit Alaska within six months?’ both the answer (card 4) and the outcome (card 7) will need to be upright or positive cards for the answer to be a clear yes. For example, if the answer is the World card and the outcome is the Ace of Wands, then you can say yes with confidence.

If, however, the answer card was the Ace of Wands reversed, even though the outcome was a positive card the answer could be no due to delays. (A reversed Wands card is synonymous with delays.)

Possible interpretation

Q. What does the future hold for my relationship?

Five of Swords: This card in the past position suggests that there have been arguments or disagreements that have not been resolved satisfactorily. People have aired their views, but without resolution of the problem.

The Seven Card Layout

Death reversed: The Death card reversed in the present position indicates that an overdue transformation has arrived. There is great resistance to this change, but it will occur anyway. Relax and flow with the change, which you probably want on a deeper level. New opportunities will come from it, and you must find faith that it will leave you in a better position to move forward from where you presently stand.

Eight of Pentacles: A strong commitment results from the current change, and you are prepared to work on your relationship in the near future, with successful results. Emotional commitment is shown by the Eight in the near future position.

The Hierophant: A rigid structure surrounds this relationship when the Hierophant appears in the energy around the question. It suggests that you are trying to fit in with the expectations of others at the cost of your own personal needs.

Justice reversed: In the hopes and fears position, the Justice card reversed suggests that you are not confident that a real resolution can take place, or you fear having to accept an unfair situation. This does not coincide with the outcome and the answer to the question, so your fears may be ungrounded.

The Emperor Reversed: In the position of the outcome to the question, the Emperor reversed suggests that one of the partners needs to learn self-discipline. The Emperor’s lesson is about meeting the needs of the material or practical world. The Emperor reversed can describe a man who lacks self-discipline. It can also refer to the act of retreating from harsh decisions. Without the self-discipline to face these decisions, the current difficulties will return to you and your relationship, perhaps in another form.

The Sun: As the answer to this question, the Sun describes a very positive situation, and one that is worth working towards. Creativity, playfulness and a sense of joy are evident in this card, and in the relationship in the future. Great happiness is offered if self-discipline can be maintained.

This is only one interpretation of these seven cards, and another interpretation might be equally accurate. Your task as a reader is to decide which meaning you will choose for each card in a given layout.

Cards in Combination

Four Planes Layout

The four planes layout is a question or a statement layout. The client concentrates on a subject or the question, for example, their health, job, relationship, or a trip to Paris on Wednesday. This layout outlines what is to occur on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual planes. In a question regarding a new job, this layout shows whether or not the client will be fulfilled on each of these levels. Armed with this information they can then decide whether or not to proceed with the job.

The client shuffles the pack and, with their eyes closed, selects four cards at random, using their non-writing hand. These cards are placed in the order shown below.

Card 1:

Represents the physical aspects of the question or statement.

Card 2:

Represents the emotional aspects of the question or statement.

Card 3:

Represents the mental aspects of the question or statement, including the mental attitudes that may have caused or contributed to the present situation.

Card 4:

Represents the spiritual aspects of the question or statement. This card can sometimes identify the lesson involved.

Take a little time to notice which plane is more balanced than the others and which plane requires the most effort or attention to re-balance it. This layout can be used as a general reading or to answer a question, for example, ‘What is the cause of . . . ?’ It will detail the cause or causes at each level.

Five Card Lesson Layout

The five card lesson layout is for clients who cannot see why they are in their current predicament or circumstances. Sometimes, knowing why you are where you are can assist with releasing you from a current situation by illuminating your lesson, or the reasons for you being in such circumstances. It is a layout for those who are willing to take responsibility for themselves and for their spiritual progress.

After shuffling the pack the client selects five cards, one at a time, and you place them in the order below. The question is simply, ‘What is my immediate lesson?’ or ‘What can I learn from this situation?’ You relate the cards to this question and to the subject involved. The meaning for each placement is as follows:

Card 1:

The immediate lesson.

Card 2:

Any obstacles to learning this lesson.

Card 3:

Opportunities which exist beyond this lesson.

Card 4:

Any assistance the client may receive to enable them to learn the lesson (for example, emotional support, money).

Card 5:

The greater lesson, of which this lesson is only a small part.

The Five Alternatives Layout

This layout is useful when the client has several possible alternatives from which to choose, such as four or five possible career choices, courses to enrol in or suitable home locations. The client can then ask a more specific question about the best alternative after this layout.

Step 1:

List the four or five alternatives. If the client only has four possible alternatives, the fifth card can represent ‘other’ (an as yet unknown alternative).

Step 2:

After the client has shuffled the cards, spread the pack across the table to enable the client to select five cards.

Step 3:

The client thinks about each specific alternative as they select one card.

‘Is it wise to move to London to live? Is it wise to move to Paris to live?’

Step 4:

Place each card in the order below as it is selected.

Step 5: Explain each card according to the alternative it represents.

You may ask the client to add an extra card to any alternative if you or the client seek more clarity. Resist the urge to add two or three cards to every position.

When selecting one card for each of up to five possible paths or choices, it is important to remember that this is similar to a one-card cut. It is not the most accurate reading. In a question on a career in complementary medicine, if the client receives a ‘yes’ to one or more alternatives, you might suggest that they follow with a seven card layout. Then they can ask directly, ‘Is it wise for me to pursue a career in herbalism?’ This will give you more information to work with and clarify what the client can expect when pursuing this path.

The Karma Reading

This is not a predictive reading. It reveals your current strengths, weaknesses and highlights what you can do spiritually re-balance yourself. The karma reading provides insight into where your energy is currently being directed. With this knowledge you can use your strengths to overcome your weaknesses.

1 Separate the Major and Minor arcana cards.

2 Remove the Seven of Cups from the pack—this card is central to the reading.

3 Shuffle the Minor Arcana cards, reversing some in the process.

4 Place the cards—one at a time—into three piles on the table to give them a perfect shuffle and to ensure that you touch every card.

5 Place the three piles into a single stack and slide them across the table in a line facing down.

6 Using your non-writing hand, select seven cards, one at a time, with your eyes closed.

7 Place each card in the position indicated opposite, with the Seven of Cups in the centre of the layout.

Briefly glance at the seven cards selected and notice which cards show an easy flow of energy. Take note of which cards reveal blocked or stagnant energies and remember that you can use your strengths to overcome your weaker areas. This is a layout you can use for yourself once a year, to gauge your spiritual progress in life.

Statement Layout

This is not a question layout; instead it offers an opportunity for the client to see where they have control over, or responsibility for, changes in their life. Instead of asking, ‘What does the future hold for my present relationship?’, they can simply focus their attention on their relationship and select five cards. These cards are then placed in the order shown below.

Card 1: Represents that which is in favour of the situation.

Card 2: Represents that which is working against the situation.

Card 3: Represents what is out of the client’s control and likely to occur.

Card 4: Represents that which is within the client’s control, and if they exercise their control (free will) this card can represent the outcome of the situation (that is, what they can do with, or make of, the situation).

Card 5: Represents the outcome if the client chooses not to pursue the possibilities offered to them in card 4. There are, in effect, two possible outcomes, depending on what, if any, action the client takes in this situation. The client can choose the card 4 as their outcome, or simply exercise no free will and accept the outcome offered in card 5.

Spiritual Direction Layout

The spiritual direction layout is designed to give clients an understanding of their current spiritual direction and the immediate lesson they need to learn from their present circumstances. This layout includes information about health and past incidents or situations that are currently affecting them, as these things often point to their current spiritual lesson or challenge.

Procedure

After shuffling the pack the client selects five cards, one at a time, and you place them in the order above. The meaning for each placement is as follows:

Card 1:

Health

Usually physical health is described here.

Card 2:

Current spiritual direction

Current spiritual direction.

Card 3:

Overall spiritual direction

The immediate lesson; that is, what can be learned from the current situation.

Card 4:

An alternative path

The alternate path to follow if the client is unhappy with their current direction.

Card 5:

Past influences

An incident or situation from the past that is influencing them in the present.

Four Elements Layout

The four elements layout illuminates on which level the client is blocked energetically, and on which level their energy is currently effective or free flowing. It identifies the Fire, Water, Air and Earth elements currently within the client. These in turn are the physical, emotional, mental and practical levels.

The client shuffles the pack and selects four cards with their non-writing hand while their eyes are closed. The cards are placed in the order shown below.

Card 1: Represents the element of Fire in the situation or the question. It shows the need to pursue new challenges, and the physical activity that brings us closer to a goal. It deals with a passionate enthusiasm for life. A positive card here suggests that the client is able to actively pursue their physical goals.

An upright Wands card here represents plenty of enthusiasm for life at present. A reversed Wands card can describe blocked or scattered energy. A Cups card here suggests enthusiasm applied to emotions. A reversed Cups card can suggest negative emotions such as anger or rage.

A Swords card here suggests action and thought combined. A reversed or a negative Swords card suggests strife.

A Pentacles card here suggests enthusiasm put to practical or financial gain. A reversed Pentacles card describes an enthusiastic approach to spending money, which may need to be curbed.

Card 2: Represents the element of Water in the situation or the question. This position covers the emotional, creative and imaginative aspects of the reading. Creativity, feelings and intuition are indicated by this position. A link to the unconscious can be shown by the card in this position.

A Wands card here suggests the active pursuit of emotional or creative goals. A reversed Wands card can describe emotional chaos or too many projects being tackled at once.

A Cups card here suggests emotional balance when upright, emotional imbalance when reversed.

A Swords card here suggests the analysis of emotions or planning creative projects. A reversed or a negative Swords card can describe thoughts or worries disturbing your emotions.

A Pentacles card here suggests creative endeavours bringing tangible results or support from others, resulting in success financially. A reversed Pentacles card describes creative projects costing you money or not returning the financial investment.

Card 3: Represents the element of Air in the situation or question. This position covers mental attitudes and understanding, intellectual balance, or a lack of clarity, ideas and thought. Logic and rational thinking are covered by this card.

A Wands card here suggests quick action resulting from thoughts and planning. A reversed Wands card can describe scattered energy due to under taking too many goals or projects at once.

A Cups card here suggests making intellectual sense of things through feelings. A reversed Cups card shows unresolved emotions influencing your thinking at this time.

A Swords card here suggests clarity of thought if a positive card, or worry if a negative Swords card.

A Pentacles card here suggests ideas for career, financial gain or practical results. A reversed Pentacles card can describe worrying about finances.

Card 4: Represents the element of Earth in the situation or question. This element is best described as practical, organised, realistic and grounded. The fourth card covers tangible security (money, possessions, etc.), responsibility, discipline, physical health and physical surroundings. This position can show the physical symptoms of the other three previous cards or levels. In other words, what is showing in the fourth position is a result of the cards in the other three positions.

A Wands card here suggests enthusiasm towards practical goals. A reversed Wands card can describe goals which are not financially sound or which are currently costing you money.

A Cups card here suggests that the client knows what feels right in their life, or that they are not cut off from what feels right in their life. A reversed Cups card can suggest emotional security based on financial security, or fear of loss influencing financial decisions.

A Swords card here suggests financial and practical rewards stemming from ideas and plans. A negative Swords card suggests confused ideas or beliefs about life limiting material success.

A Pentacles card here strengthens the physical or practical aspect of the question or situation. A reversed Pentacles card highlights a lack of financial foundation or that financial returns are not equal to investment.

Tarot Cards for Astrological Signs

Chapter 17

ANSWERING QUESTIONS ABOUT MONEY

Brian came to see me when he had reached the end of his tether. ‘It’s been one thing after another,’ he sighed as he shuffled the pack. During the reading his story unfolded, and as it did it seemed more and more like a movie plot or a novel than reality.

He had an important question about money, and this question had a history. When he was 47 his father died and left him a large sum of money. Three months later, he won $80 000. Within two years he received another $230 000 from an investment in his father’s estate. He became a millionaire within a very short time, and he wanted to secure a solid future for himself and his children.

He travelled for the first time in his life, and bought a new car, some jewellery and clothes after he had paid off the house. He felt it was time to look at ways to invest the remaining $550 000 for an income in later life. He contacted a financial consultant, who recommended an investment with a company that designed and built shopping centres. It appeared to be a sound decision, so acting on his consultant’s advice he committed the remainder of his money to the developers.

Now, at 62 years of age, he wishes he had spent the money a little differently. ‘If I had bought a red sports car and driven it into the sea I would still be better off than I am today,’ he said angrily.

His financial consultant had neglected to mention that the fine print in the contract bound him to supply further money should the project collapse or not return the initial investment. The project did in fact collapse, and so did many other projects the company was committed to completing. The investors were consequently required to pay a further $22 million into the projects. Of the 136 investors, 120 immediately declared themselves bankrupt, leaving a law suit against the remaining 16 investors. Brian was left to organise the whole affair. ‘All I wanted to do was invest some money for my old age and now I’ve been to court so often I could almost have a law degree. My question is this: will I have to sell my house to pay for the legal costs?’

‘What have you done about the financial consultant? Have you taken him to court?’ I asked.

‘No. He’s already in prison for fraud, and I was told that if I want to take legal action I will have to get in the queue.’

With so much riding on his question, I decided to break it into three parts:

1. Will we be successful in our legal challenge?

2. Will I have to sell my house?

3. Is there another more appropriate approach to this matter?

Five cards were selected for the amounts of money he might have to pay out to resolve this situation: $90 000, $130 000, $160 000 and $220 000. The Six of Wands appeared upright for the placement of $160 000, confirming this was the likely amount to be paid. Brian sighed and explained. ‘My legal advice has been to expect a figure of around $160 000.’

Money is a subject of great interest to most of us, and during the course of almost every reading I am asked the question, ‘What does the future hold for me financially?’ It is a practical question and it deserves an answer. I don’t believe that the Tarot is only to be employed to answer emotional or spiritual questions, for material concerns can also contain spiritual lessons.

Through personal choice I refuse to answer the questions, ‘Will I be lucky?’ or ‘Will I win some money?’ Instead, you can reword the question so that you have a little more control over the outcome. For example, ‘What can I do to improve my financial situation?’ or ‘What is currently preventing my financial stability?’

Zola wanted to buy a house. She and her husband had saved enough money for a deposit. She was both excited and afraid: excited about the possibility of living in their own home, and afraid of buying a house which might turn out to be a disaster.

She had seen a house she loved, but it was $30 000 over their maximum price so she asked if it would be a wise idea to buy it. The cards advised against it, and over the next four weeks she telephoned me for details of another five houses. She sounded more desperate with each call, despairing that her home might slip out of her grasp.

Logic suggests that it is important to avoid becoming emotionally involved in a purchase when such large amounts of money are involved, but the reality can be another thing altogether. Zola seemed to be desperate to part with her savings, and reacted like a small child when a house was sold at auction for more than she wanted to pay for it. She was probably much more careful with the weekly groceries than she was in her search for a house. In a situation like this it is essential that you are very clear in what you say to your client, for the decision is ultimately theirs to make. You can only give them more information upon which to base such a decision.

Chan came to see me just before he was to invest $50 000 in an offshore business. I saw from the cards that he was concerned about one of the other investors. Of the four investors, one man was involved in a legal case that could affect the whole venture by costing him his trader’s licence.

The cards suggested that Chan had another alternative, which he confirmed.

It appeared to be a better risk than the original plan.

Ann didn’t even want to know about money when I told her that she was likely to be purchasing a house in the next three months. She laughed and explained that she was single, broke and had borrowed the money to pay for the reading. I received a clairvoyant flash of the house, its layout and even the colour of the walls. Still she laughed, and I shrugged my shoulders. A year later she returned for a reading and told me how she had come to buy her first home.

‘The company I work for discovered that they had been underpaying me for the past six years. They gave me a cheque one day and I nearly fell over. I thought of taking a long holiday until my friend reminded me of your reading. Just for a laugh we decided to give it a go. If we looked at houses for one week and didn’t see the one you described, then I’d take the holiday. It was the second house we saw. My friend Sharon laughed as soon as we opened the door. “It’s sort of a gold green colour”, she said, imitating your reading.’

Chapter 18

USING INTUITION WHEN READING

Intuition simply means ‘inner-tuition’, or inner teaching or knowledge. We are all born with intuition and we all have the ability to use it. How? Practice. I think of intuition in much the same way as an athlete might think of a muscle. The more you use it, the more it develops. With regular use intuition becomes a reliable tool that can assist you in decision-making.

How do you begin? Simply listen to what your inner voice is saying. It will not shout advice to your conscious mind, for it is the still, small voice within you. Your inner voice needs peace and quiet to be heard clearly, so it is often necessary to clear your mind of the day-to-day clutter or worries which can obscure your inner voice.

Take some time each day to be completely still. Clear your mind of thoughts and distractions, and ensure that you are not interrupted. If you want an answer to a question you can use this time to ask your inner self what is the wisest course of action. Resist the temptation to ask too many questions. This will only activate your conscious mind and you will lose contact with your intuition. One question at a sitting is plenty.

It can be worthwhile to ask your inner self if there is anything you need to know right now. Having asked the question, wait. Allow your inner self to sort through the possibilities and to give you a simple, clear answer. The answer may come to you in the form of a feeling, an image or a voice. It might come to you in a dream during your next night’s sleep. Intuition works differently for different people. Although receiving an instant image is quicker than dreaming an answer during your sleep at night, no one way is better than another, as long as you receive a clear and accurate answer to your question.

I know a reader who tends to pick up each card as she describes its meaning, thereby sensing through touch what that card means in the particular spread. This is called psychometry, the act of reading the energy stored in an object through touch. The theory is that as you touch something you leave a small amount of your own energy with the object, and this energy can be read by a psychometrist, or in fact by anyone who is intuitive. In some instances you don’t even need to touch the object. For example, your home carries the energy of the events that occurred within it, along with all the energy of its previous occupants. This energy fades with time, and can be cleared by airing out the house and cleaning the walls, benches, windows and floors thoroughly, preferably with a solution of ammonia.

Dreams can be a very powerful tool for intuition, and although they can sometimes be difficult to understand, at other times they are startling in their clarity. For instance, my wife was travelling from London to Sydney. She planned a two-day stopover in San Francisco to break the journey and to look around. That evening (in Sydney), I dreamed that she was mugged and assaulted by a pair of men who left her lying on a road. In the struggle one of her shoes had fallen off, and in my dream I saw this shoe clearly, its colouring and design.

She phoned the following day to say that she had arrived safely. She went on to say that she had met some people who had invited her out for the evening, but that she was unable to leave her room because she had a severe cramp in her left leg. It became a searing pain and, within an hour, she was unable to walk. She retired to bed early, and awoke the next morning to perfect health once again.

I described my dream to her and she gasped. The shoes I had described were new and she was wearing them as we spoke. Perhaps the cramps in her leg were a blessing in disguise, for they may have prevented an ugly incident.

I remember an afternoon in London when I was bored and tired of reading cards and palms. The four people I read for that afternoon received a different sort of reading than I usually give. I decided to say whatever came into my mind, no matter how absurd it seemed at the time, with the reasoning that at worst I would be wrong.

I prattled on about little hedges around the front door of a cottage, a near miss in a light aircraft, letters from someone named Rodney, an upsurge of violence in a small town in South Africa, a rejection from an airline regarding a flight attendant vacancy, and pondered aloud why people send so many flowers to someone when they are dead. None of this came from the cards. They were simply thoughts which entered my head at the time. It was remarkable when I think about it in retrospect. I was allowing my intuition free rein, and the results were startling.

Four weeks later, people began seeking me out. Friends and acquaintances of those four people came to me with stories that confirmed much of what I had said that day. Within a month, one woman had attended the funeral of a friend where the entire house was filled with flowers. Another friend confirmed the purchase of a new house with the miniature hedges around the front door.

After that, I decided that I would always try to find a way to say what I thought or felt. I usually preface such thoughts with, ‘I probably shouldn’t say this, because I have nothing to back it up, but . . .’ At this point my client usually asks me to say it anyway.

If you feel that a certain meaning can be given to a particular card during a reading, give voice to your feeling, for that is the surest way to develop your intuition. Your intuition will respond by giving you more information next time, and eventually you might spend more time staring at the walls as you read than you do searching through the cards.

It is not necessary to be intuitive when reading the Tarot as the system is clear enough to give sufficient detail on its own. Being intuitive is an asset, however, as in combination with a particular understanding of the cards it ensures a level of accuracy in your readings. That is, your intuition can provide you with some extra details during a reading, and your logical understanding of the Tarot can be invaluable when your intuition fails you. Those who read the Tarot solely by intuition can make a mess of a reading when they have a bad day. One reader I worked alongside confessed one evening: ‘I’m glad this day is over. I’ve talked a load of rubbish today. I’m just too emotional to read properly on days like this.’

Clairvoyance (a type of intuition which involves seeing mental images) can be a great help when you want a simple answer. Remember, however, that anything you discover clairvoyantly can usually be found through a straightforward Tarot reading if the question is worded carefully. Your wording of questions can make all the difference. But clairvoyance can assist you, as the story of Mr Wiley shows.

The breathless man at my front door, dressed in a tuxedo, had just ridden 40 kilometres on a 1960s bicycle without any gears, and laden with water pipes. Mr Wiley introduced himself as he parked the bike in my living room and unwrapped the rusty pipes. He said they came from a house on the Isle of Wight, off the coast of England.

‘I am spending my retirement searching for planes lost during World War II. I had a list of five, and with the help of a couple of chaps from Cornwall I’ve located two of them. Well, the wreckage of two, at least. A lady by the name of Mary saw another plane go down in the Midlands during the war when she was only seven years old. I found her address, but she no longer lives there.’

This was beginning to look like a scene from a Monty Python movie, and I was thinking hard about how to get him to leave when he continued: ‘These pipes are from the house where this Mary woman last lived. It’s been demolished. Being a clairvoyant, I thought that you might be able to pick something up from the pipes that would help me to trace her to her new home.’

This man is completely troppo, I thought as I reached for the pipes. However, images flooded into my mind the moment I touched them. A large house, with stables close by. A cobbled courtyard and a tall brick and stone fence surrounding the property. A narrow lane leading into a small town, and tall trees set back from the road.

I continued reading, describing the basic location of the house where I could see Mary was now living. He left satisfied, and telephoned two weeks later to say that he’d found the house, but Mary had moved again. He had an address this time, however, and was closer to talking with her regarding his fighter plane. I had a vision of 67-year-old Mr Wiley pedalling all over the Isle of Wight in his tuxedo: a piece of history in search of a piece of history.

PART IV

Advanced reading techniques

Chapter 19

THE MAJOR ARCANA

The 22 cards that make up the Major Arcana reveal the spiritual causes of physical events, or the lessons offered from situations experienced. For example, the reason your last three businesses have failed, what causes you to attract emotionally uncommitted partners, or the underlying cause of your skin allergies or your migraines.

These are powerful cards, and if four or more Major Arcana cards present in a seven card layout (see the Seven Card Layout chart in the additional chart section of the book), you may find it beneficial to add an extra card to each Major card before giving the reading.

In the rare cases when six of the seven cards on the table have been Major Arcana cards, I have asked the client to select an additional six cards in order to read clearly. Six out of seven cards detailing causes and telling little about events makes for an esoteric or highly spiritual reading. This is fine if you or your client are open to this type of reading, but for the average person an esoteric reading can be confusing. In the above case, the extra six cards enabled me to give the client an idea of what was to take place, and not simply the spiritual causes of events.

The Major Arcana tells you why things are happening, while the Minor Arcana tells you what is happening. Each alone is not enough in a general reading. When more than half the cards in a spread are Major Arcana cards, it’s a good idea to ask the client to select an extra card for each Major Arcana card. For example, in a seven card layout with four or more Major Arcana cards I’d ask my client to select four or more cards to accompany the Major Arcana cards.

If your client selects four extra cards and one of these is a Major Arcana card, include it and read as normal. Occasionally you’ll have a client who selects four extra cards, and three or four of these will be Major Arcana cards. If this occurs then you give a deeply spiritual reading, for your client selected the cards and is probably ready to hear what you have to say.

The Fool

The Fool represents the first step towards knowledge, peace and liberation. This card depicts a traveller standing at the edge of a cliff, gazing into space while a dog barks at his heels. In his left hand is a white rose, and a wand across his right shoulder holds a bag containing his belongings.

The sun shines brightly and reflects on the snow-covered mountains nearby. He is living for the moment, experiencing the power of the present. People who live in the past or the future may consider him foolish for being so focused on the present, as they do not see that the greatest power we have in life is what we have at this moment. We cannot change the past and often an absolutely certain future eludes us, but we can change the present. What we do, feel and believe at this moment is something over which we have control.

Only the sun behind him knows where he came from and where he is going. The Fool doesn’t know and he doesn’t care. The white rose in his hand represents innocence. He is about to step off the cliff into the void. He seems to trust that life will support him.

He carries much knowledge from his past (past lives and past experience in this current life), which is contained in the bag attached to his wand. The dog also represents the past, but in the form of a past which calls you back and prevents you from experiencing the present. It does not take much effort to live in the past, romanticising, regretting or even wallowing, for there is little risk involved in this. Real risk lies in the present. The Fool is not afraid to accept such risks.

The zero above him is without beginning and without end. So too are his lessons. If he were to step off the cliff and lose his life, or fail to learn the lesson (that is, to trust that life will support him), he is likely to be given another chance to learn it through a different set of circumstances, a different time or even a different life. Because of this, he has no fear.

Small children often have such innocence, expecting life to be kind to them always. Everything is new to them and they want to explore. As adults we can lose this spontaneity, but when the Fool appears in a spread this need to take a risk and live in the moment is evident.

What could be more foolish than to use a magic wand to carry your bags? Or not to look where you are going? The Fool doesn’t care for the commonsense required to function in the everyday world; to him life is filled with magic moments, which commonsense only makes invisible. The Fool is what the outside world sees when it looks upon someone who is truly enlightened. The Fool is what the average man sees when he meets a wise man.

General meaning

The Fool is a card for spontaneous action. A time to leap out of a situation, or a time to enjoy the day for what it is. It is a positive card for travel, suggesting that you will be living in the moment and feeling connected with life.

‘Sufficient to the day, the joys therein’ is an old saying that fits this card. The Fool can appear when you are about to take a risk which those around you would caution against. For example, ‘Oh, I don’t think it’s a good time to be changing jobs with all the unemployment out there’, or ‘What! You left your partner? What on earth were you thinking?’

Take the risk. Do it anyway. The Fool suggests that the road to fulfilment is through spontaneous action and that long-term plans will be crystalised later on.

Relationship meaning

The Fool in a relationship reading suggests a period of living in the present or acting spontaneously. You may be about to elope, or you could be about to meet a partner while travelling, or a partner who prefers to live in the present rather than plan for the future.

The Fool can sometimes describe a partner who is unpredictable, innocent, or who is not committed to long-term plans and relationships. The fool describes a time to take a risk or a leap of faith. At this time you cannot know the rewards action will produce for you.

The Fool reversed

When reversed, the Fool suggests that you are seeking to be free of responsibility when commitment is required of you. You are looking for an easy way out, but this is not the right time to do so. It is time to commit yourself to the future or to resolve past situations before you can return to living spontaneously. Something is incomplete and it requires your attention before you can safely proceed.

The Fool reversed can suggest a failure to act on intuition, or an avoidance of responsibilities. You may long to be free, to forget the past and ignore the future, but this is not the time. Sometimes it can describe not taking a chance at some crucial time due to fear, or sticking to plans laid down, or relying too much on other people’s advice.

Timing is the key here. Poor timing is evident when the Fool appears reversed. Either not acting when opportunities present themselves, or acting when the time was inappropriate.

During a talk I delivered on the Tarot, a woman asked me about a reading I had given her six months before. I had described a fiery man in his twenties, with blue eyes and red to brown hair, and possibly a Sagittarian (the Knight of Wands and Temperance cards). I said he was likely to appear in her life soon and she would have an opportunity to have a love relationship with him.

She met a man who fitted exactly the description I had given her. She was keen to go out with him, until she discovered that he was a Virgo. She passed up the opportunity and waited for the Sagittarian I had predicted. She asked me if I thought it was wise of her to do this, as no Sagittarian had since appeared.

I was surprised that someone would interpret a reading so literally, and I pointed out that four out of five characteristics are not bad for a prediction. I suggested that she had overlooked the word ‘possibly’ in the reading. Whatever happened to free will?

In consulting me for a Tarot reading, it seems this woman had surrendered her free will completely. When the time came for her to move into a situation which may have benefited her, she relied too heavily upon the advice I had given her and too little on her own judgement. This is an example of the Fool reversed.

I The Magician

The Magician wears a red robe over a white tunic and has a snake for a belt. His right hand extends upwards to the heavens while his left hand points down to the earth. Above his head is the symbol of infinity, suggesting that his knowledge is without beginning and without end. The tools on his table were packed inside the Fool’s satchel. They represent the combination of the right motive (cup), a clear plan (sword), sufficient enthusiasm (wand) and practical application (pentacle)— a very powerful combination for achieving your purpose. The red roses overhead and at his feet suggest ardour or endurance, and the white lilies depict purity of motive. His belt is a snake devouring its tail, which represents situations or repetitive circumstances without beginning or end.

The Magician represents making something real out of possibilities. Potential is worthless unless it is actualised. All of us have great potential, but not everyone realises theirs (and arguably nobody fulfils all of their potential). The Magician reaches up for energy from the heavens (inspiration) and directs this energy to something tangible and real—the earth. He turns his ideas into something we can see and touch. He uses his willpower to produce tangible results. Instead of reacting to life’s currents, he acts for himself within those currents, and real results are produced.

General meaning

The Magician indicates that this is an appropriate time to begin new projects. The timing, the opportunity and the motives are right to make your efforts worthwhile. It is a positive time to initiate action and execute plans. A time when you are grounded enough to succeed with your plans, so new ventures are more likely to reach fulfilment. A clear sense of purpose and an application of willpower can result in success.

Relationship meaning

The Magician describes a partnership that is grounded in reality without being restricted by materiality. A dynamic relationship is suggested here, and perhaps one partner supplies the inspiration while the other is grounded and can turn those ideas into tangible results.

The Magician indicates a man with a strong will, a disciplined mind and a clear sense of purpose. He possesses a powerful sense of direction, yet he is open to new ideas. He appears to make his dreams a reality effortlessly and he possesses a strong sense of self-confidence and purpose.

The Magician reversed

When reversed, the Magician loses his connection with the earth or with the heavens.

If the Magician reversed loses connection with the earth he is likely to become ungrounded, resulting in problems with his mental, emotional or physical health. He lacks purpose and has limited self-discipline. He receives the energy from the heavens, but he cannot successfully direct it to the earth. This energy is very powerful, and its build-up within him can lead to mental or emotional disturbances. Hallucinations, schizophrenia, mental or nervous collapse, or severe moodiness can result.

A woman in her sixties came to me for a reading, and as she shuffled the pack I noticed that her little (fourth) finger was unable to straighten out. I asked her if she had broken the finger, and she explained that her ex-husband loved to drink, and sometimes became unpredictable and often violent when drunk. In a drunken rage one night he lashed out at her with a carving knife and she threw up her hands to protect herself. The knife cut the tendon and nerves of her little finger. Seeing the blood she turned and fled.

I became curious and asked if I could examine her palm more closely. Lines on the palms often confirm dates and events far into the past. I traced the life line and found a clear break at around 35 years. I mentioned that she could have come close to death at that time.

‘I was 36 years old when he came at me with the knife,’ she confirmed. Had she not left when she did she may have been murdered that night. She later explained that this was only one of dozens of similar incidents. The reversed Magician reflected her husband’s unpredictable nature.

The Magician reversed can describe someone who does not understand that energy comes through you but not from you. They might seek to control others by undermining them through silent opposition, or sometimes through any means available. This includes black magic, hiring someone to assassinate their enemy or even doing the job themselves.

When the Magician reversed is in touch with the earth but has lost his connection with the heavens, he has lost his spiritual connection. Without this connection he has no conscience and may behave antisocially. This is not someone you would choose to have opposing your plans, for he can be quite powerful.

The Magician reversed appeared in a reading for Marion, a woman in her forties. She recently found out that her husband (also the father of her 16-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son) was already married to another woman in another country who had given birth to his first three children before Marion had met and married him. She found this out by accident, and when she confronted him he moved out of the family home immediately and told her that if she pursued the matter any further he would disappear.

I had the distinct impression that within two years this man planned to disappear and she might never see him again. A new country, a new identity, a new wife. He had disappeared when he tired of his first wife, without telling her, divorcing her or letting anyone else know of his whereabouts. These are not the actions of a psychologically stable person. This is an example of the Magician reversed.

In simple terms, the Magician reversed suggests that you require a stronger connection to the heavens or to the earth. You lack the right motive, plan, enthusiasm or practicality to successfully complete what you have in mind. You may be forcing a situation which is not meant to happen at this time. It may be time to return to the upright Fool, to enjoy each moment until opportunities are presented to you in the upright Magician once again.

In a relationship reading the reversed Magician can describe a relationship which is unstable or filled with turmoil. It is likely that one partner is unpredictable and that their erratic behaviour is undermining the relationship.

II The High Priestess

The High Priestess is seated, with the moon at her feet, a scroll in her hands, a cross positioned level with her heart, and two pillars either side of her, between which hangs a veil. This veil conceals from view a pool of water, which she senses is there but does not fully understand. This pool of water is explored more in the Star, Moon and Temperance cards.

The moon at her feet represents her imagination and her ability to see beyond the visible, obvious circumstances before her. The pillar to her left ( J) represents the masculine (logic, practicality and force), and the pillar to her right (B) represents the feminine (imagination, intuition, receptivity and compassion). They represent duality and opposites; the opposing forces in life that, when harnessed, can bring about success. The letters B and J stand for Boaz and Jakin, the names given to the two pillars of the Temple of Jerusalem. Boaz represents mystery and passivity, while Jakin represents action and conscious understanding.

The High Priestess represents a period of withdrawal and passive reflection that can allow inner forces to awaken. This card can describe inner wisdom at a deep level. She can represent intuition, clairvoyance, or simply retiring from life to reflect upon a problem or a situation.

She holds a scroll upon which are visible the letters ‘T O R A’. There is one letter obscured, and that letter is an H. The Torah contains the Jewish lore, in the form of the five books of Moses. Much wisdom and knowledge are contained within the Torah, and the fact that it is partly concealed suggests that its information is concealed within the text. Although the High Priestess holds the scroll, she does not know what it contains. When she meets the man (or masculine force) who complements her feminine energy he will know what it says, and she can tell him from whence it came.

The High Priestess must employ her intuition to know what lies in the pool of water behind her. In doing this she will travel through the Major Arcana until she can touch that water directly in the Star.

Along with the Page of Cups, the High Priestess is a card for the astrological sign of Pisces. Part of the lesson for Pisceans is to learn to turn dreams into reality. It involves planting seeds for the goals you desire (represented by the seeds on the veil), and then setting about making those dreams tangible or real.

General meaning

The High Priestess is a card for forming ideas that can lead to real results. It is not a card of tangible results, but one of possibilities. All of us continually plant and harvest seeds or ideas throughout our lives, and the High Priestess is the action of planting those seeds.

The High Priestess suggests that you can safely trust your intuition, and you will need to as some aspects of current circumstances may be hidden from your view at this point. The High Priestess is a card for psychic and spiritual development. It represents a period of going within, to plant seeds for the next stage of your life or to absorb what you have been dealing with on a physical level.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the High Priestess can describe a Piscean person. It can indicate that you need to go within before you can receive what this relationship offers you. Receptivity, passivity and inner development are shown here. Sometimes the High Priestess suggests a relationship in which great psychic or spiritual development takes place. Together you can learn, grow and develop.

The High Priestess reversed

When reversed, the High Priestess can still describe a Piscean person. It also suggests a time of re-entering life after some time of isolation or inner development. Perhaps you have spent a period alone, directing your energies into your spiritual growth, and the time has come for you to meet life again in order to test your new beliefs and understanding.

It can describe the act of ignoring your intuition in favour of using your mind to solve a problem. Perhaps you need to listen. There may be something you need to hear, and listening to your inner self or to those around you can show you a new way to achieve your goals.

The High Priestess reversed can indicate an inability to hear your inner voice, or that your inner knowledge cannot be translated into action. This might be time to go out and meet new people, because new acquaintances can introduce you to new possibilities and opportunities. For example, you may find a new job, a new partner or a new understanding.

The time for inner development is over for now, and you stand to gain more by seeking the company of others. It is time to return to the upright Magician to actively pursue your plans through the available opportunities.

In a relationship reading the High Priestess reversed can suggest a love relationship which draws you out of yourself and widens your circle of friends. It can describe a need to actively seek relationship opportunities instead of dreaming about what you desire.

III The Empress

The Empress represents a path to spirit through the senses. She is passionate rather than idealistic. She is realistic in her approach and in her sharing, as she knows that now is the perfect time to give whatever she has to give. This is part of the lesson for the astrological sign of Libra—to learn that love is not an idealistic or intellectual exercise, but a physical, emotional and sensual sharing, and a sense of joy in the everyday experience of life.

The Empress sits on opulent cushions and is surrounded by life. The flowing water brings life to the lawn and trees, and the ripe wheat suggests fertility. The unripe seeds in the High Priestess are now ripe in the Empress, suggesting the maturation of plans. The heart-shaped stone beneath her seat depicts a circle and a downward pointing cross: the sign for Venus, the ruler of Libra and Taurus. This symbol represents spirit coming to terms with the physical world through love. It is commonly used to represent women.

While the High Priestess is a dreamer, the Empress has her feet firmly planted on the ground. The High Priestess dreams of love as a perfect possibility, while the Empress understands human nature and the practical efforts required to keep a relationship intact. The Empress needs to experience the world through her five senses, for it is only then that she can understand it from her own experience; it is not an intellectual exercise when you have felt and experienced something for yourself. The Empress suggests passion.

She wears a triple crown, as does the Hierophant, representing the Father, the Son and the Spirit. This symbolises spirit made manifest in the physical world. Satisfaction and understanding through emotions are suggested in this card.

General meaning

In simple terms, the Empress can mean making your plans a reality or moving forward into the next natural stage of your plans, taking you one step closer to your goal. Pregnancy is suggested by this card, and can be confirmed by the Nine of Pentacles, the Three of Cups or one or more Pages in the layout.

The Empress can also suggest a trip to the countryside or taking a break and reconnecting with nature, as she is surrounded by nature. It is a time to re-balance yourself through contact with nature. This card suggests domestic stability or harmony in the home, and this is often through the act of bringing love out of the mind and into the heart.

In a business question, this card suggests that you are working from home, or using your home as a work base. It also suggests progress with business plans.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Empress suggests moving forward into the next natural stage of the relationship. It can describe a pregnancy, for the arrival of a child usually takes a relationship into a new stage. It is a very positive card for relationships in the domestic sense. It is a time when you and your partner approach life through feelings and pleasure rather than through thought. Much growth and life exist within this relationship.

The Empress reversed

The Empress reversed indicates difficulties in the home environment or difficulties within a relationship. You may be unable to bring your plans to fruition or, in a relationship, you may have an inability to love from the heart because you are intellectualising or idealising love. Again there is a need to return to the upright card before this one to master the lesson it contains. In this instance, a return to the upright High Priestess offers the opportunity to meditate on inner or spiritual sources of love. This can reduce the demands placed on the love relationship.

It can suggest that you might be in love with the idea of love, but find yourself unable to put in the practical effort to make the day-to-day aspects of your relationship work. The reversed Empress can also describe a sense of emptiness or frustration at not being able to start a family. In a question about children, the Empress reversed can indicate complications during a pregnancy, a miscarriage, a termination, or the conclusion of a pregnancy through a birth.

In a recent question about the date of birth of an expected child (the baby was already three days overdue), I selected one card for each day for the following ten days. (I selected the cards as it was a telephone reading. Telephone readings differ from face-to-face readings in that you need to identify the person’s question and think about that on their behalf as you select the cards for them.) The card for the following Thursday was the Empress reversed, suggesting that on that Thursday the woman would no longer be pregnant. This was obviously the day she would give birth. She gave birth about 20 minutes into the Thursday morning.

Another meaning for the Empress reversed can be the act of using your mind to solve a problem by calmly thinking about the alternatives. The upright card describes a sensual nature whereas the reversed card reveals a more intellectual approach to life and to issues.

In a relationship reading the Empress reversed can describe a disharmonious home placing additional stress on a relationshp. Perhaps home renovations are keeping the home in a state of upheaval or if your client is a younger person it is possible that living with parents is preventing a love relationship from developing.

Eighteen-year-old Tracy selected the Empress reversed when asking about her relationship with Robert. It turned out that her strict parents had forbidden her from bringing boys to the family home and so her home environment restricted her relationship.

IV The Emperor

The Emperor sits on a stone seat with an orb in his left hand and a sceptre in his right. At the top of the sceptre is an ankh, a symbol of the life of the soul after physical death. Beneath his clothing he wears armour, as he is always ready to go into battle if the need arises. The rams’ heads at the top of the seat and under his hands confirm this as a card for the astrological sign of Aries. The other cards for Aries are the King of Wands and the Knight of Swords.

One of the lessons for the sign of Aries is that of self-discipline. Before you can effectively lead others and earn their respect you need to be able to discipline yourself. This includes a discipline of your temper, your energy, your emotions and your mind.

The Emperor represents the archetypal father. He symbolises the laws of society, structure and social stability allowing for spiritual development. The Emperor can represent the person who enforces these laws, such as a judge, policeman, employer, landlord or anyone responsible for keeping order and structure in a situation. Generally the Emperor represents a just, fair and pragmatic man. If he advises you, his suggestions come from his own direct experience. He tends to be dogmatic, but is usually reliable when he gives his word. When you give a commitment he expects you to carry it through, and if you don’t he is reluctant to give you a second chance.

General meaning

Success through self-discipline and practical efforts are indicated by the Emperor. It can represent a time of great stability and order in your life. This card can also suggest an encounter with the law or with someone in a position of power over you, such as a judge, policeman, your father or a father figure.

This is a time when you need to take a pragmatic approach to life in order to succeed. There are limitations imposed by people around you, but if you work within these limitations you can achieve your goal.

Relationship meaning

The Emperor describes a man who is practical, dogmatic and often very disciplined. He is a good provider on a material level, yet he can be uneasy with displays of emotion. Romance and dreaming hold little attraction for this man as he prefers what he can see and touch. If he can’t see or touch it he tends not to believe in it.

This man can take on a father-figure role in a relationship, ensuring that he has control over the relationship, especially on a material level. He is usually a success in business due to his self-discipline and the fact that he enjoys working hard. He can be repressive where emotions are concerned as he has trouble understanding concepts which he cannot see. In a situation where his partner demands more of him emotionally he might purchase a gift for her. This isn’t a man to write you poetry or hand-pick you a bunch of wildflowers. He ensures that the bills are paid and that everything in the home is in good working order.

He can have trouble meeting the emotional needs of a partner when in a relationship, for to him ‘giving’ means giving something tangible. He rarely tolerates laziness, realising that hard work is an essential part of reaching your goals. His attitude is: ‘If it was easy to climb a mountain, everyone would be climbing one. There isn’t room at the summit for everyone, so make yourself comfortable or make your way to the top.’

The Emperor reversed

When reversed, the Emperor indicates a lack of success due to a lack of self-discipline. As a description of a person, the Emperor reversed can indicate a man who is more tolerant and less dogmatic than the upright card, and who can display more compassion. However, sometimes this man can shrink from harsh decisions, lacking the discipline required to move towards his goal. He may display a more passionate nature than the upright Emperor, but lack any real discipline over his passions. He needs to return to the Empress (the previous upright card) to fully understand passions and sensuality, before realising the need to keep these feelings in their place in order to meet the challenges of the material and practical world.

In a relationship spread, the reversed Emperor can describe a lack of discipline: for example, he may lack commitment to his partner, or he may have more than one partner. It can also describe a mother–son relationship where the woman mothers this man. He unconsciously seeks out a mother figure in a relationship (the Empress) and leaves all the practical decisions to her. When Julian appeared as the Emperor reversed in Lorraine’s reading it explained why he refused to have any children, despite their 15-year marriage. He was still emotionally a child and didn’t relish the thought of having to compete with children for Lorraine’s love and attention.

V The Hierophant

The Hierophant (or Pope or High Priest) sits on an ornate chair, holding his right hand up towards the heavens while his left hand holds a staff with a triple cross. A red robe covers his white tunic and a gold triple crown sits high upon his head. Two gold keys lie crossed before him, and two disciples kneel at his feet. One disciple wears a tunic covered in red roses, the other a tunic covered in white lilies. These symbols are a reminder of the Magician. The stone pillars behind the Hierophant are a dull grey, for the building and structure of the church itself are secondary to the understanding sought within. The triple cross in the Hierophant’s hand, the three crosses down his front sash and the triple crown refer to the Father, the Son and the Spirit. Some people see these as referring to spirit, mind and physical form.

The Hierophant channels energy from the heavens with his right hand, just as the Magician does, only he channels it through his staff and into his disciples. These disciples feel that they need the Hierophant in order to contact God. They don’t realise that they can contact God directly. The Hierophant shows them the way to do this. He gives them guidelines they can follow to achieve the union that they seek with God.

This is a card for religion or tradition. Where the Emperor is responsible for providing materially, the Hierophant is responsible for providing spiritual direction and guidance. In the case of organised religions or churches, the Hierophant represents a way for the average person to become aware of their spiritual needs without too much effort and without having to give up too much of themselves. The Church offers an approach to spirituality for those who might otherwise not bother to seek.

Traditionally the crossed keys are gold and silver. The gold key unlocks the outer world and the silver key unlocks the inner world. Without both keys you risk missing the knowledge contained within both these worlds. In the Rider-Waite deck both keys are gold, suggesting that if you follow only the outer doctrine it is unlikely that you will ever truly understand the message. As long as you allow another person to contact God on your behalf, you risk believing their understanding of God or the universe and do not develop your own understanding through your own direct experience. You miss the direct experience necessary for true clarity of judgement.

In simple terms, the Hierophant (a Five card) suggests that you are being narrow-minded, because as long as you allow other people to be responsible for your spiritual growth you are unlikely to open yourself to direct experience. It is through direct experience that you can experience God for yourself and decide who or what God is. If I tell you my experience of God, you require belief. If you contact God for yourself, you have an experience which may lead to understanding. Believing in concepts that you don’t understand is a risky business. Experiencing those concepts directly offers proof, removing the need for belief.

The two pillars represent the structure that protects you from choice and from personal responsibility. The Hierophant represents churches, doctrines and education in general. It is a card for the sign of Taurus (as is the King of Pentacles and the Four of Pentacles). One of the lessons for Taurus is that ‘Mine is not the only way. Not the only way to live, to believe, or to approach a situation.’ The opposite attitude is evident in some religious groups who believe implicitly that their approach to God is the one and only approach worth having—the ‘only those who believe as we do will be saved’ approach.

General meaning

The Hierophant suggests that you are surrendering your personal power to someone or to a group of people. Perhaps it is time to take personal responsibility for yourself and your spiritual needs. Your current approach is not the only way. If you were to seek it, you may find a new alternative. There may be pressure placed upon you to conform. Others may have specific expectations about your behaviour, such as marriage, where you live and your spiritual beliefs.

Relationship meaning

The Hierophant describes a relationship which conforms to what other people expect of it. The partners involved in this relationship experience difficulty being true to who they are and their real needs in a relationship, because they feel pressured to fit in with what others expect of them.

Celia came to me for a reading, during which she complained that her husband worked day and night, and that the spark had gone out of their marriage. When I probed a little deeper I found that she had married Paul because her family approved strongly of him. She admitted that she would rather have travelled the world first and perhaps met several people before deciding on a long-term partner, but her family, sensing she was about to ‘do something reckless’, pressured her into marriage. She enjoyed their attention at first, but four years later she deeply regreted not having resisted their pressure.

The Hierophant can also suggest your relationship has fallen into a pattern or a rut where you ‘do what other people do in situations like this’. This is not the only way to experience a relationship. Look for a new approach. You may receive some resistance from people around you, but your efforts may still prove worthwhile.

The Hierophant reversed

All the Fives in the Tarot mean broad-mindedness when reversed, and the Hierophant is no exception. It represents the formation of new ideas or the rejection of orthodox doctrine. It can be a time when you write your own life script and live according to your own understanding of life. You are now taking responsibility for your own spiritual development, and though the road may be rocky it is likely to be worthwhile.

Sometimes the Hierophant reversed can describe the act of rejecting orthodox ideas or philosophies in favour of a cult or group with unorthodox ideas, but which nevertheless assumes responsibility for your spiritual development. So in effect, the giving up of one group in favour of another. There are people who capitalise on the need of others to have someone who would be responsible for them. Thus gurus and masters abound. I’m not suggesting that these people have not found their way or their path, but rather that your path is not necessarily their path. Following in the footsteps of someone else is no guarantee of reaching enlightenment. Others may not agree, it seems, as evidenced by Lourdes in France, where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 and which now attracts more than five million visitors or soul searchers every year.

In a career layout, the Hierophant reversed can suggest a career outside usual working hours, such as an artistic career, being a sole trader or running a small business. It usually requires more discipline to work for yourself than to work for a company, and a return to the upright Emperor is necessary in order to embrace a disciplined, structured business lifestyle. Undisciplined small business people are unlikely to remain self-employed for long. The reversed Hierophant describes a need to enjoy a more flexible lifestyle, requiring more discipline to manage it successfully.

In a relationship reading the Hierophant reversed describes a love relationship which is unique. Instead of adhering to the expectations of others you have a relationship which suits those involved. It meets the needs of the partners. It may involve two partners of the same gender, partners whose ages are very different, people from different cultures or religious backgrounds or two unlikely candidates for relationship who have found each other and are happy together.

After visiting a gay couple, Miranda’s five-year-old son Geoff stated ‘You know mum, Aunty Dianne really loves Aunty Bernadette.’ ‘Yes, she does,’ replied Miranda with a smile.

VI The Lovers

The sun shines brightly as an angel appears above a couple who stand naked in front of two trees. Behind the woman is the Tree of Knowledge; behind the man is the Tree of Life.

The Lovers is about choice. The man looks to the woman for fulfilment, while she looks to spirit, or within. The angel represents what the Lovers have been, and still are, on a higher level. This part can only be glimpsed by both of them together. It is the blending of reason (male) and passion (female) to bring you closer to the angel or your true self.

The Lovers card represents adolescence. Sexuality presents itself along with moral and intellectual independence. The sexual drive leads you away from aloneness and towards forming relationships with others, which may open the way to love. In love you may surrender the need to control that isolates you from others and sometimes from life itself.

In adolescence the young man is learning to transfer some of his love for his mother to his lover. The young woman is learning to transfer some of the love she has for her father to her partner. It is no easy task, for the man’s mother is likely to be forgiving, tolerant and patient with him. His new partner may not be all of these things. The woman’s father is likely to be grounded, mature, patient, loving and tolerant of her idiosyncrasies, whereas her new partner may not be. However, the Lovers’ new partnership offers new opportunities in the form of a sexual relationship, an equal relationship, and opportunities to grow and develop together. The choice is between the safety of the parental relationship and the opportunities for growth of the new relationship.

The Tree of Life behind the man and the Tree of Knowledge behind the woman are a reminder of the Garden of Eden. While the man may be content to busy himself with practical endeavours in the material world, the woman is here to remind him that he has a spiritual purpose and that there is a higher meaning to existence. Hence she looks upwards to the angel. Perhaps when Adam took a bite of the apple in the Garden of Eden he was reminded of his journey, his spiritual purpose and the work that lay ahead of him. This might have been a disappointment or a disillusionment, and before he took responsibility for his spiritual path he may have blamed Eve for reminding him and sobering him for the journey. Perhaps it is a case of ‘shoot the messenger’, and Eve has been given a bad reputation for pointing out the obvious.

The Lovers can suggest an important relationship in your life. Practical assistance or emotional support from a partner are also suggested, along with decisions about a relationship. The Lovers is a card for the sign of Gemini, especially if the Knight of Swords appears in the layout and, to a lesser degree, the other Swords Court cards. One of the lessons for Gemini is to learn to decide. A decision between two or more alternatives can be difficult for a Gemini, because the duality inherent in most Geminis can make each alternative seem appealing.

General meaning

The Lovers is a card for a decision, usually about a relationship unless a specific question is being asked. It can show the process of falling in love, and it can refer to the first or romantic stage of a relationship.

The Lovers also describes the act of deciding whether to remain with the old or move into the new. It suggests that you have outgrown the past and that you can safely move forward into the new.

Eric consulted me regarding his career. An architect for 12 years, he had been offered a partnership in a small interior decorating business. He knew his potential business partner well, but was unsure if it was the right time to leave a stable job with a large company for a job which offered greater rewards for the price of increased risks. The answer to his question, ‘Is it wise to start a business?’, was the Lovers, suggesting that he’d outgrown the current job and that it was wise to move forward into the new business.

Relationship meaning

The Lovers suggests a new relationship or a new stage of an existing one. Decisions about love or a relationship are suggested with this card, and a new relationship or stage of relationship can safely be commenced. It can describe the act of falling in love, or remaining within the romantic stage of a relationship.

The Lovers reversed

When the Lovers appears reversed it shows that any hopes of moving forward into a new situation or stage of a relationship are founded on hopes and dreams alone. You have not successfully completed your present situation, and it is better to stay with this for now.

The end of a relationship can be suggested with this card, or a destructive love relationship. Romantic or sexual problems may be dominating your life. Perhaps you are unable to move beyond the first, or romantic, stage of the relationship, or you may be working at ensuring that a present relationship stays in this first stage. An avoidance of deeper commitment or responsibility is suggested here.

Karen came to me for a reading, and her little boy slept quietly in his bassinette beside her. He was the youngest of three children, and she wanted to find out about her relationship with her partner, the boy’s father. Her partner was married to another woman, who was expecting his third child with her. He had been in a relationship with Karen for over seven years, and had always reassured her that he was preparing to leave his wife and move in with her permanently.

In all that time he had not left his wife, and he appeared to have no intention of doing so. Karen lived in a romantic haze, dreaming of her man and awaiting the day when he would finally commit himself to her. The Lovers appeared reversed in the layout, along with the Knight of Cups reversed and the Three of Cups reversed.

‘His wife is expecting their third child. He must be having some sort of relationship with her. Are these the actions of a man who is unhappy with his lot and about to leave?’ I asked her.

She defended him vigorously, with an adeptness that came from practice. ‘He has told me all the way through our relationship that he will leave her, and I believe him. If I didn’t trust him, what sort of relationship would we have?’

‘Exactly what sort of relationship do you have?’ I asked.

At this she burst into tears, and I wondered if I had the right to shatter her illusion. Did she want me to, or was she searching for some small sign that might give her hope? I’m not one for living in hope, believing that hoping is hopeless. Doing something or deciding something brings results. One cynical reader I worked with used to say, ‘We sell hope on credit.’ I wasn’t selling Karen any hope that day, for the cards clearly described a man who was having his cake and eating it too.

However, Karen was getting something out of this situation as well, for she was able to dream of her perfect man without the intrusion of reality. She did not have to endure his slovenly habits or the fact that she was not happy. She could safely live in the future, where one day her perfect man might stay longer than a few secret hours in the afternoon. She safely lived in a romantic cloud, not risking a move towards a situation that required real commitment.

The reversed Lovers can show the need to return to the upright Hierophant, to re-experience a sense of structure and stability. When you have sufficient internal stability it will be time to decide (The Lovers) to move forward into new directions and embrace new opportunities.

VII The Chariot

A man stands in a chariot, holding a rod or wand in his right hand. There are blue-faced moons on his shoulders, the chariot’s canopy is covered in stars, and his belt displays the signs of the zodiac. The chariot rests partly in the water and partly on land. There are two sphinxes before him—one black, the other white. Their colouring echoes the pillars of the High Priestess card.

The winged disc on the front of the chariot is a symbol of Isis, the Egyptian goddess— patron of magic and of mothers, and a goddess of deep compassion. The winged disc depicts the spirit being able to soar above emotional trials. It represents the ability to keep a clear mind on emotional matters.

The sphinxes represent opposing forces in the man’s life, which he needs to use his will to control. If he does not, the sphinxes are likely to proceed in opposite directions and tear his chariot in two. (Other Tarot decks show the sphinxes back to back, each one determined to move in its own direction.) He has access to water and land, or to emotions and to the practical world. By controlling the sphinxes, he controls his instinctive desires.

This man is the sum total of the preceding cards: he carries the wand of the Fool; the veil behind him is from the High Priestess; the belt encircling him (formerly a snake) from the Magician; the armour is from the Emperor; the sphinxes show the duality of the Lovers; and the Egyptian symbols on his tunic tell of the study undertaken in the Hierophant. He must not give up, but forge ahead towards the World. As with all the Sevens in the Tarot, don’t give up is the key phrase.

The Chariot is a card for the astrological sign of Cancer, particularly if accompanied by the Moon or any Cups Court card. One of the lessons for Cancerians is to use the mind to control or discipline the emotions. Whereas in the Emperor you deny your emotions, in the Chariot you need to accept them as real and subdue them with your mind.

General meaning

When this card appears it can mean that you need to control the opposing forces in your life. Some contradictions may appear in the present situation, and you are currently controlling them with your mind. It is a card of success through tenacity.

When describing a person, the Chariot suggests someone (usually a man) who is in charge of himself and his surrounds. He is likely to be a success in business or in any situation that requires control. A strong business or worldly success is indicated by the Chariot upright. The Chariot can also represent a car or travel by car.

Relationship meaning

The Chariot describes a confident man who has his emotions under control. It also suggests that controlling your emotions might prove worthwhile in your current relationship. The message of this card is don’t give up, for success is likely if you can reconcile the contradictions (opposing forces or energies) within your relationship.

Oliver came to me for a reading regarding his love relationship. Renee wanted a deeper commitment and this triggered Oliver’s fears about commitment followed by abandonment. Three times in the past he had set up home with a partner, only to have her leave within six months. As he sat before me, he was torn between his desire to be with Renee in a committed love relationship and his fear that she would leave him within a short period of time.

As I detailed some of the underlying patterns he experienced with relationships and how he contributed in some way to the continuation of these patterns, Oliver was able to recognise that it was possible to change these patterns. His mind was able to rise above the opposing forces of fear and desire to see a solution to his problem. He realised that he could change, initially by releasing his past relationships and learning from their pattern.

The Chariot reversed

When the Chariot is reversed the opposing forces of the sphinxes gain greater force. Emotions may cloud your vision or you may be holding on to some past situation. Often the Chariot reversed can describe the act of allowing a buildup of unresolved emotions to compound until they erupt, before you push them back down again. A new approach to your emotions is suggested to avoid possible disaster.

A part of the shadow (that part of ourselves we don’t like to acknowledge) of the Cancerian is that they can love you more when you have left than they did when you were present. One possible meaning of the Chariot reversed is sentiment and unresolved emotions clouding your present view of things. Don’t hold on to the past, to old ways of coping or to the emotions which are building up within you. Emotional outbursts are common when this card appears reversed.

When the Chariot appears reversed it is time to return to the upright Lovers card, to decide which path to take. This can enable you to eliminate distractions or projects which demand too much of your attention.

VIII Strength

In the Strength card a woman soothes a lion. The lion can easily destroy her, but instead it is calmed by her love and gentleness. The sky is bright and a chain of flowers hangs around her waist. The infinity symbol above her head suggests that she is tapping a source of energy that is without beginning or end.

The lion symbolises the feelings, fears and desires that were controlled by the mind in the Chariot, and are now emerging to be seen and respected for what they are. Another step forward is taken in Strength, as the animal or passionate side of human nature emerges and is faced with strength and courage. The lion (or animal within) is easily directed by the woman’s hands, for it senses that behind her love is her strength. She has an inner strength or confidence that allows her to confront what the Chariot had to control. She understands that the lion is a source of energy, and subduing it is likely to cost her energy. To be fully alive she needs to allow her higher and lower selves to work together in harmony. If one dominates the other, strength will give way to fear and a need to control life.

Strength is a card for the astrological sign of Leo. The other cards for Leo are the Sun and the Queen of Wands, and to a lesser degree the other Wands Court cards. Part of the lesson for Leos is to find inner strength. Leos can sometimes put great effort into projecting a strong, confident persona, while feeling inadequate underneath. Often, however, Leos are every bit as strong as they pretend to be, except that they are unaware of it. Their lesson involves recognising that they are as strong as they pretend to be, and the way to find this out is to test their strength.

In other Tarot decks Strength is numbered 11 while Justice is numbered eight. Arthur Waite has changed the placement of these two cards in this deck because he believed that Strength was more appropriate with the number eight.

In numerology the number eight is one of power and strength, and if you examine the Minor Arcana you will find that all the Eights are cards of strength. The Eight of Wands is free flowing, while the Eight of Cups is walking away from an unfulfilling situation and having the strength to move on. The Eight of Swords is about realising how other people and your beliefs restrict you, and how you can use your inner strength to set yourself free. The Eight of Pentacles shows you how you can build on past career or financial successes through commitment to your work.

General meaning

The Strength card indicates that you have the ability to face life, difficult circumstances or change with hope, inner strength and courage. Courage does not mean that you have no fears, only that you are committed to someone or something despite your fears. This card signifies having the strength to face your inner fears and desires instead of subjecting them to your will.

In a health reading, Strength can refer to problems with the heart or spine, but these too can be overcome with the inner resources this card suggests you have.

Relationship meaning

The Strength card suggests that you have enough inner strength and courage to allow real closeness within a relationship without trying to control it or being controlled by it. You have sufficient courage to deal with any difficulties that might arise, without reacting out of fear.

This card is a positive one in a relationship reading, for it suggests that the people involved are able to listen to and be heard by one another. They act from inner strength and not out of fear, allowing for real closeness, without the restrictive roles found in cards such as the Six of Pentacles or the Six of Cups.

Strength reversed

Weakness results when Strength appears reversed. Your courage to face life is diminished, leaving you feeling overwhelmed or lacking in hope. It can suggest inner torment. Your passions and desires are demanding that you fulfil them, leaving your mind feeling threatened with a loss of control.

Strength reversed represents a time when the safety of a traditional career or lifestyle seems appealing. Anything which offers an escape from the passions and desires which threaten to destroy your conscious personality or the safe patterns you have set up for yourself looks like something worth having. Anything which restricts your ability to face yourself can be seen as appealing. For example, you may seek to become absorbed with work, your own business or simply fill your time with unnecessary obligations.

Sometimes when feeling powerless in your own life you may seek out someone or a situation which you can dominate to help you to feel powerful again. The reversed Strength card reflects relationships which involve being dominant or submissive. These relationships or friendships tend to lack the closeness which blossoms when people are equals.

This is another side to the Leo lesson: learning how to find strength within love. That is, how to find the inner strength needed to allow someone to become emotionally close to you. When they experience difficulties with this lesson, Leos can find that their careers offer them a substitute for the fulfilment not found in their relationships, and they can gain great success in their careers at the cost of relationships. It is a see-saw arrangement. They are dominant or submissive. They can experience great success in their careers or in their relationships, but rarely both at one time. In focusing their will, Leos can control life and succeed in one particular direction, but this is merely returning to the lesson of the Chariot (persistence brings success). The lesson for Leo is to have the courage not to control life, but instead to meet it with love and compassion.

IX The Hermit

An absence of bright colours in the Hermit allows him to see the subtleties of life. He stands in the snow and holds a lamp containing a six-pointed star in one hand, and a rod in the other. The star, consisting of upward- and downward-pointing triangles, describes the need to combine the elements of Fire and Water.

The Hermit needs to be alone in order to reflect. He reflects upon past actions and, as a result, gains a deeper understanding of life. This card suggests a withdrawal from everyday life in order to activate your subconscious mind. It is the second stage of learning. First you act, then in reflection you decide which actions were useful and which were wasted. This can give you a clearer understanding of how to act in the future.

The Hermit is a card for withdrawing from the outer world to awaken the inner self. This can be done through listening to yourself, to your dreams, or to a friend, a counsellor or a teacher. Listening to yourself can also mean listening to your spirit guides through meditation, or to a spiritual master with whom you have contact. The mind must be silent for the inner voice to be heard. To still the mind you need minimal distractions. Hence the act of going away to be alone, whether through meditation or through a physical journey. This stillness of mind allows you to glimpse behind the veil of the High Priestess.

The Hermit is a card for the astrological sign of Virgo, as are the Queen of Swords, the Queen of Pentacles and, to a lesser degree, the other Pentacles Court cards. The lesson for Virgos involves learning how to be alone without being lonely. Understanding that, although we may share much in life, we are each alone, for we each have our own path to tread.

The Hermit is a card for going out on your own, taking a risk, and leaving behind mediocrity in favour of what you truly want to do. There is no guarantee that this is the right path, for the lantern lights only a short distance. The Hermit describes the first glimpse of what lies ahead. It is a card for inner success, requiring that some experiences be entered into alone. The Hermit is where you end up when you follow your inner urge to walk away from a situation that no longer fulfils you. The Eight of Cups leads to the Hermit. In the Eight of Cups the man is walking up to a hilltop alone, and in the Hermit you can see him at the summit reflecting upon his life and himself.

General meaning

The Hermit suggests a time for reflection. It represents a time to make sense of the past, the present and where you want to go in the future. It is a card for seeing a counsellor, keeping a dream journal or meditating in order to develop yourself. It is also a card for maturity and a time when you know what really matters in your life.

It can signify assistance from a guide, either physical or spiritual, or that you are helping other people to find understanding of life and the causes of events. It is a time to ask yourself these questions: Where have I come from? Where am I now? Where am I going?

Relationship meaning

The Hermit can signify a need to go within, and retreat from a relationship in order to decide what you want and where you are going. Perhaps you are spending more time than usual away from relationships, and focusing more within yourself.

You could be assisting your partner to find a deeper understanding of himself and his life, or it may simply describe a Virgo person. When the Hermit appears in a relationship reading you are more aware of your aloneness within a relationship or your need to be alone to meet your inner needs.

The Hermit reversed

There are two possibilities with the Hermit reversed. First, you may be deliberately keeping busy to avoid the recognition of a need to change, or second, that you are indeed lonely. Long working hours or antisocial working hours are suggested here. In place of real social contact with people you may be working nights or weekends to fill up your social hours. For example, Rebecca worked by day as a receptionist in an advertising agency, and to fill the lonely hours at night she worked four nights a week in the lounge bar of a hotel. It kept her from being lonely, but it also prevented her from going within to find her real purpose.

The time has come to stop and think about where you are heading and why you are going that way. Perhaps you are giving in to mediocrity in order to stave off loneliness, or preferring comfort over growth for fear of loneliness or of what you might have to give up. You may need to return to Strength and find your inner strength before you can allow other people to be close to you.

X The Wheel of Fortune

The Wheel of Life shown in this card is constantly in motion, turning events for better or worse. The four figures in the corners of the card represent the four elements, or the four approaches to life: the eagle for Water, the winged lion for Fire, the winged bull for Earth and the angel for Air. These are the four fixed signs of the zodiac. They are Scorpio (eagle), Leo (lion), Taurus (bull) and Aquarius (angel). Each of these figures has a book, suggesting that they are each learning about life from their individual perspective.

They are coloured yellow because, although you mentally understand the four elements, you have yet to reach a complete understanding of them. They are shown again in the World card except in full colour, as they have been understood by this stage and successfully combined to achieve unity. In the Wheel of Fortune you may recognise the existence of the four elements, but you have yet to blend them successfully.

The Wheel of Fortune describes the lessons learned while trying to balance the changes life presents. The wheel is in constant motion. You may like or dislike a particular situation or a moment on the wheel, but it will pass, as life is change. You may enjoy a particular moment and want it to last, but it will change anyway.

The snake represents Set, the Egyptian god of darkness who rules over death and decay. Much of Set’s activities are directed (in a negative or hostile way) towards Osiris and Horus, the gods of fertility and order. Set represents the chaos and decay which constantly try to reduce order within the universe.

Set follows the wheel down, while on the other side, rising with the wheel, is Anubis, the Egyptian guide to dead souls, and therefore a bringer of new life. Anubis offers protection, especially in the spiritual sense. From death comes rebirth. From change, new opportunities arise.

Above the wheel is a sphinx carrying a sword. The sphinx is half-human, half-lion, and the sword is tilted, suggesting that life is not as easily understood as you might first expect. The sphinx represents secrets that will be revealed only to those who are observant. To those who see beyond the surface of life, much is available in the form of knowledge, patterns and causes of present consequences. By looking beyond circumstances to see the causes you can understand karma a little better. Karma is a lesson in itself and it appears in the Justice card. The sphinx protects such knowledge from those who use it without due respect for its power.

General meaning

Life is change, and when the Wheel of Fortune is upright in a layout the change appears advantageous. When it is reversed the change appears to be detrimental. It is only change, however, and what appears to be detrimental may in fact be a blessing.

An example of this occurred with a friend of mine. Nicholas returned home after a 12-month holiday and applied for the Job Search allowance. He was refused any payment as, prior to leaving, he’d worked in his own business and was consequently ineligible for the next six months. Frustrated, he had no alternative but to start a business immediately with a small sum of money borrowed from friends. Last year his business earned him over $80 000 and he is looking forward to a turnover of $150 000 per annum in three years’ time. Had he been given the Job Search allowance he may have begun working for someone else. He might have missed an opportunity that initially appeared as a problem but turned out to be a blessing, as he is thrilled with his business now.

You need to look beyond the present circumstances to observe the tides of life. When your tide is high you can achieve much in life, but when your tide is low there are limited accomplishments. There is an old Chinese story that describes this well.

An old man had one son, one horse and a small farm on the edge of a village. One day his horse broke free and ran away. The villagers gathered together and visited the old man to tell him how sorry they were about his bad luck.

‘Bad luck? How do you know it is bad luck? It might be a blessing,’ he said.

They were a little confused as they left. Several weeks later the horse returned, along with a herd of wild horses. The farmer now had 14 horses. The villagers gathered together and visited him, to tell him how lucky he was.

‘Lucky? How do you know it is good fortune? It might be a problem,’ he said.

One week later, his son fell from one of the wild horses and was trampled, severely injuring his legs. He became crippled for life. Once again the villagers visited to offer their condolences.

‘Unfortunate? How do you know this? It might be a blessing,’ the old man replied.

Late into the following year, the Emperor declared war on a neighbouring country, and all the able-bodied men were summoned to fight. The old man’s son was unable to go as he was maimed. The war lasted two seasons, during which time all the men from the village who had fought had died. Once again the villagers visited to tell the old man how lucky he was.

‘Lucky? How do you know that this is fortunate? It might be a problem.’

Generally, the Wheel of Fortune signifies a change in circumstances in your life. You may not understand the cause of these changes, but how you react to change is important here. Do you meet the opportunities life offers you, or do you resist the change? Upright, the Wheel indicates adapting to the changes.

In everyday terms, the Wheel of Fortune suggests improvements in your life. Your career is improving or a relationship is becoming more fulfilling. In a financial question your financial circumstances are improving. The upright Wheel of Fortune suggests that spring has arrived and that a personal winter is behind you now.

Relationship meaning

The Wheel of Fortune suggests increased opportunities or possibilities for fulfilment within a relationship. An improvement in current circumstances or opportunities for a new relationship are likely when this card appears upright.

Change offers you opportunities for learning and growth. Do not be in a hurry for the wheel to reach the top, for when it does there is only one direction it can travel—downwards.

The Wheel of Fortune appeared in a relationship reading I once gave and I explained that improved circumstances were approaching. The man before me confirmed this by pointing out that his partner was about to complete her medical degree, thus enabling them to travel and later to afford a better lifestyle.

Wheel of Fortune reversed

We all want life to improve and to stay that way, but learning is limited when no challenge presents itself. When the Wheel of Fortune is reversed there is change which may appear difficult. It suggests a struggle against events, usually to no avail. However, the universe has greater power than the individual, so it is necessary to try to understand what this change has to offer. Perhaps there is a repetitive pattern in your year or in your life. It may be that life is once again presenting a particular challenge in the form of a problem so that you might master the lesson therein.

Summer gives way to autumn now, and life presents fewer opportunities so that you can reflect upon past actions. It is time to return to the Hermit, to reflect on what is no longer necessary in your life. The reversed Wheel of Fortune is only thinning out those opportunities which you might have released in the Hermit. It is time to review what is useful and what is unnecessary in your life, and to release gracefully those things which life seeks to take from you. Return to the Hermit and reflect for a while. You might realise which past actions have brought about your current circumstances.

In a financial question the Wheel of Fortune reversed suggests that a personal financial winter is approaching and that it is wise to put aside something to ensure stability until next summer arrives. Winter is approaching so prepare yourself.

XI Justice

A woman sits on a stone seat with two pillars behind her. The upright sword in her right hand and the pair of scales in her left suggest being able to pierce the illusion of reality to understand the true cause of events, or universal justice. The purple veil draped between the pillars suggests a spiritual dimension granting inner wisdom. The background, the scales, the crown and the hair in this card are yellow, signifying mental clarity. Physical endurance is shown by the red cloak, and the pillars symbolise the structure we can build up around our beliefs about life.

The challenge in Justice is to make a fair and just decision. The upright sword displays its double edge, showing an understanding of the duality of life and the need to take responsibility for your part in the cause of your present circumstances. The woman in this card is aware of the seeds she planted in the High Priestess, and that they are growing steadily. It is time to be aware that you reap what you sow. Actions have consequences, and when circumstances appear unfavourable (as in the Wheel of Fortune reversed) you either have something to learn from this situation or it is a result of your previous actions. Once the choice is made it affects your future. Your present decisions shape your future.

Justice is a card for the astrological sign of Libra, along with the Empress, the Queen of Pentacles and, to a lesser degree, the Swords Court cards. Part of the lesson for Libra involves making a just and fair decision, taking responsibility for your circumstances and deciding what you will do about them. Librans sometimes take a long time to make important decisions as they contemplate the consequences of each alternative.

General meaning

The Justice card indicates that events have worked out as they were meant to.

That is, your past decisions or actions have led you to this point. You have what you deserve and, if you are completely honest with yourself, you know this. It represents a time for absolute honesty with yourself and with the people around you. It is time to take responsibility for yourself and the decisions that have led you to this point. Your future can be changed by your present decisions, actions or understanding.

The Justice card can also suggest legalities or a legal decision in your favour, or the purchase of something which requires the signing of legal documents. It may mean successfully resolving an argument or disagreement, or taking responsibility for your part in a situation. This card can refer to balancing material possessions, or balancing your spiritual scales or karma. If Justice appears with the Six of Wands it can suggest a job promotion, which is the result of decisions or past actions (that is, hard work bringing rewards).

Relationship meaning

The Justice card can suggest marriage when it appears in a layout accompanied by the Two of Cups, Ten of Cups and sometimes the Three of Cups. It can indicate legal documents being signed, such as occurs during a house purchase or business negotiations. The relationship partners may be involved in a business venture together and the Justice card reflects this.

It can also indicate that you have resolved an argument with your partner, or that you have an attitude of total honesty and responsibility towards your partner and your relationship.

Justice reversed

When the Justice card is reversed it suggests injustice. For instance, a legal situation which drags on and does not reach an early resolution, an ongoing argument or disagreement, or blame instead of responsibility. You still receive what you give, or harvest what you plant, except that it is unlikely to be an enjoyable harvest. If life appears to be unjust or unfair at the moment, perhaps there is an opportunity to learn something about the seeds you previously planted.

Justice reversed signifies a possible dishonesty with yourself or with other people, and an unwillingness to trace the cause of present events, preferring instead to blame others for your predicament. By doing this you risk missing an opportunity for a greater understanding of yourself and your life.

This is not a time to look to others to save you, but a time to save yourself. The laws of karma apply even when this card is reversed, and will hold you to someone or to a situation until you perceive it clearly and resolve that which you have begun. When you leave a situation unresolved, it (or a similar situation) returns to you so that you learn the lesson. Sometimes the reversed Justice card highlights the need to return to the upright Wheel of Fortune. This may allow you to wait for your next personal spring, when new opportunities once again present themselves.

In a relationship layout the reversed Justice card can describe a slow resolution to issues. As an answer to a question about a reconciliation after a separation it indicates that a reunion is unlikely to occur.

XII The Hanged Man

The man shown in this card is tied up, but he is serene, passive and patient. His hands are placed behind his back and an aura (or energy field) is clearly visible around his head. The red signifies endurance, the yellow intellectual understanding, and the blue a clear mind and a balanced outlook. Note that he has yellow slippers on his feet. This suggests that he channels spiritual energy through his feet instead of through his head or crown chakra. He knows that this energy will reach him regardless of what position he assumes.

After the process of perceiving your life for what it truly represents comes the peace of acceptance of who you are and where you are in life. The man is tied up, but this does not seem to worry him. He can use this time to reflect upon life and his actions so far. From his perspective, he can see that the world is a strange place indeed. Upside down the world can be seen anew. Try it for yourself. Stand on your head or hang yourself (safely!) upside down, and look around you at the things you take for granted or don’t normally see. You might be surprised at what you notice.

The Hanged Man understands that struggle serves no purpose, and in fact only tires him out before he is free again. Reflection is the best use of his energy at present, for if he flows with life he might gain a deeper understanding of who he is and what he needs to do. By seeing the world upside down he can see some of the pointless goals and habits that fill his time and which still fill the days of those around him.

It is a card for remembering your spiritual purpose, and for being prepared to surrender what you have so that you can do what you have come into this life to do.

General meaning

The Hanged Man is a card for surrender. It suggests that this is a time when you can gain by surrendering to life and allowing it to take you where you need to be. The Hanged Man is also a card for independence. A time for doing what you sense is best or for being who you are, even if other people think that your ways are strange. It can also signify the peace which comes after a difficult period in your life.

This is not time to struggle. Be still and reflect on your past actions and your future plans. It is only a temporary situation, and you may benefit if you use this time wisely. By allowing life to happen of its own accord you may be pleasantly surprised at the results. Surrender to life with the faith that something better will replace what you relinquish. Take time to sense the tides occurring underneath the events in your life. You have been offered a time of peace from the worries of the world, so it is wise to use this time to advantage.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Hanged Man suggests a time of reflection. Perhaps you are withdrawing from the everyday life of a relationship to reflect upon your spiritual and relationship direction. Inner peace and calm accompany this card, although your partner may find that you are hard to reach emotionally or socially at present. It is a time to focus on yourself rather than your partner, and this can demand great understanding and patience from the people around you.

The Hanged Man appeared in a layout for Alan prior to his departure on a ten-day meditation retreat in the mountains. A silent Buddhist meditation course offered him plenty of time to reflect upon himself, his life and his love relationship.

The Hanged Man reversed

The Hanged Man reversed can suggest an inability to be free of social pressure. This card represents listening to what other people expect of you instead of following your inner voice. Perhaps you are using role models to direct you through life instead of experiencing life first hand. It suggests a need to return to the upright Justice to take responsibility for your thoughts and actions, and the consequences of those actions.

It can also mean fighting your inner self in some way. Perhaps you are denying some part of yourself. Instead of surrendering to your spiritual purpose you might be struggling to remain on top financially or materially. Life asks you to reflect on your direction and your present level of spiritual and emotional fulfilment, but instead you struggle to continue in the same vein.

You are under obligation, but are struggling to set yourself free. You may not understand the purpose of this present restriction or what it can offer you. It is inappropriate to struggle, for you are unlikely to free yourself until the time is right. When life allows you to move forward you won’t have wasted your time spent in reflection if you use this time wisely. A lack of reflection now may result in extended delays or repeated patterns. Surrender brings its own rewards.

XIII Death

Any fears you have about what you might have to surrender in the Hanged Man are now justified in the Death card. This card represents a clearing away of the old in order to make room for the new—new beliefs, new stages, new opportunities and new understanding. Without death, the new cannot easily make its way into the world. Life is an endless series of births and deaths. Some of these you can accept easily while others require adjustment.

If you accept death you are able to live more fully. When you lose connection with your spiritual source your ego resists the idea of death or change, fearing that you will be destroyed. These fears can lead to clinging to life, which in itself is a kind of death. No new energy can come to replace the old as you are still holding on to the old energy. An example of this occurs when people panic. They suddenly try to gulp in air without releasing any, and in severe cases they may faint.

The Death card does not refer to the transformation, but to the moment when you surrender and allow the transformation to take place. It is the act of surrendering to change and having faith that life will eventually offer you something better than you are giving up. This card differs from the Hanged Man where you are surrendering to life, for in the Death card you are surrendering to change and releasing something.

The Death card represents the lesson for the astrological sign of Scorpio. It involves realising that there is sometimes strength in surrender. Many changes occur in the average Scorpio’s life, and they often take the form of distinct chapters. When one door closes, people, situations and even locations are left behind and often these are not seen again. Scorpios have many chances to experience these small ‘deaths’ to master surrender.

The Death card shows four approaches to death, or to change. The King represents someone who refuses to change, and in doing so is swept aside by the current of life. The Bishop stands facing Death with his spiritual beliefs as a support for the changes that are about to take place. The young woman symbolises partial innocence. She wants to accept the change, but her ego resists as it is convinced she will be destroyed if she does so. She kneels before Death, hoping that this change will pass her by. Only the child, in its complete innocence, openly looks at Death, awaiting the change and offering flowers. The child is not afraid, but is curious to see what face Death wears and where these changes will lead. The flowers that the young woman was prepared to offer have fallen from her hand and onto the ground.

In the distance the sun rises between two towers, suggesting that from death comes rebirth. Life brings change to us all, regardless of race or creed or caste.

No one escapes change, although some of us resist it vigorously. All things must pass. People, jobs, relationships and even civilisations change, finish or fade into history, and the river seen in this card represents life flowing towards its ultimate purpose.

In your life there will be many deaths. When you first go to school, when you change schools, when you leave school, when you change jobs, when you leave a relationship, when you move house, when you move to a different country, when you marry and when you have a family. These are all deaths of situations.

The Death card can also refer to physical death, but other cards are required before this can be confirmed. These other cards include the Tower, Judgement, the World, the Blank card, the Ten or Six of Swords, or in a health reading the Three of Swords. By itself, the Death card refers to the act of surrendering to change and allowing it to take place in your life.

General meaning

Death puts an end to the old to make way for the new. The Death card represents a time for change. It is likely that a chapter in your life is coming to an end, and your acceptance of this change will allow the transformation to occur naturally.

Have faith that life will bring something better than it takes from you. Death puts an end to the old to make way for new opportunities. On a subconscious level you have probably called for a change to take place, and the Death card indicates this change is occurring. Do not struggle against this change; instead try to accept it.

The Death card can describe a Scorpio person, especially if alongside any of the Cups Court cards.

One day at a market I set up my card table and a young couple approached me, curious about the Tarot. The woman nudged her partner forward, and I could see the fear in his eyes as he braced himself for what I might say to him. She looked at him expectantly.

‘Go on then. Ask him.’

‘Er . . . are these Tarot cards?’

‘Yes, that’s right.’

‘How does this work?’

‘It’s quite simple really. Each card is different, and has a particular meaning. You select a series of cards, and I interpret them for you. Why don’t you select one card and I’ll show you how it works.’

They glanced at each other nervously, he finally took a deep breath a selected a card. He placed it face down on the table. I turned it over and it was the Death card, reversed to me, upright to them.

Their eyes widened, and I imagined that he was probably kicking himself for not walking right past me and on to the other market stalls. I felt obliged to reassure him immediately so that he wouldn’t walk away with any doubts or fears.

‘Don’t worry, it’s not as bad as it looks. In fact, it would probably have a greater significance to you if you were a Scorpio.’

They both flinched at that. His eyes stared searchingly into mine. Oh God, I thought. What are the chances of a nervous Scorpio approaching me and my saying that to them? I quickly explained that Scorpios often encounter this card because it is a part of their lesson, which is about being open to change and surrendering to life’s transformations. They both listened intently until I had finished and then departed, cheerfully.

In a health reading Death suggests the area of concern is likely to be the lower abdomen, bowel or reproductive organs. In men it can refer to the prostate and in women the ovaries or the uterus.

Relationship meaning

The Death card signifies a deep change about to take place in a relationship or with your attitude to relationships. It may be the death of a relationship, such as a separation, or of a stage of a relationship, such as the birth of a child.

Surrender to this change, allowing it to clear the way for something new.

Death reversed

When the Death card is reversed there can be a crippling fear of death in all its forms. Minor change may be confused with physical death, and you resist it with as much vigour as you would your own demise. This fear can hold you to old habits, leaving you with a tedious, repetitive life which masks your desperation at the thought of impending change.

When you avoid change you need all of your energy just to stand still, sometimes draining the energy of people around you, too. Death is necessary now, but your fear of change finds you drowning in boredom, depression or physical exhaustion, as most of your energy is directed to resisting change. It may be time to return to the upright Hanged Man, to surrender to life and its purpose for you.

This card indicates a lack of faith that life brings something better. Some people seek a guarantee of future happiness. If you resist these changes they approach you from another direction. Soon they approach not from outside but from within, in dreams and emotions, or even in physical health symptoms such as muscle tension or headaches.

XIV Temperance

The pool of water that was obscured by the veil in the High Priestess is clearly visible in Temperance. An angel stands with one foot in the pool and the other on land, and pours water between two cups. A path leads off into the distance towards the sunset. The aura, or energy field, is clearly visible around the angel’s head, and there is an orange triangle within a white square across the heart chakra, or heart energy centre. Blending the spiritual and the animal aspects of yourself is indicated with the Temperance card. The orange triangle (Fire) within the square (Earth) represents the spirit rising from the material body.

Temperance indicates the ability to combine spontaneity with knowledge, and to use spiritual knowledge and understanding to temper behaviour. It is knowing the appropriate response or action for each situation as it arises. This is a part of the lesson for the astrological sign of Sagittarius.

Another aspect of this Sagittarian lesson is to bridge the gap between the animal or human side of us and the divine side. Sagittarians often possess an innate sense that life is meaningful and that we are in fact divine. They understand that everything has a purpose, offering opportunities for growth.

In the Temperance card, the distance between your vision of what is possible and the limitations inherent in being human can be vast. Bridging the gap requires a great deal of dedication, enthusiasm and discipline. It is essential to remain clearly aware of your current path and your greater purpose. The path in this card leads off over the hills to the sun (or the goal). Sagittarians often need to have a goal or a long-term purpose, for without these they can become intemperate, nourishing their human nature while ignoring the divine being. Other cards for Sagittarius are the Knight of Wands and, to a lesser degree, the other Wands Court cards.

The Temperance card also signifies travel (with the Eight or Ace of Wands, the Six of Swords or the Page of Swords), and learning or teaching if the layout also contains the Three of Pentacles.

General meaning

The Temperance card is a card for travel, teaching, or a Sagittarian person. I read for a middle-aged woman some years back and the Temperance card appeared in a layout regarding career. I mentioned that she might be teaching at some point in the future, and she laughed and said, ‘I’m too old to learn anything, let alone teach other people.’

I asked her to be open to teaching opportunities if they were to come her way, but I noticed that she perceived teaching as school teaching. I suggested that she broaden her concept of teaching, but her mind was made up.

In another reading with this woman three years later, she reminded me of our conversation and told me that she was currently teaching ceramics in her shop workroom. ‘It’s not like a classroom or anything. It’s just me and a few girls who want to know how to fire a kiln and what to do to with clay. I talk and show, they listen and do.’

‘It sounds remarkably like teaching to me,’ I replied.

Temperance is a card of behaviour, not concepts. It represents the appropriate action for a particular situation. It can show a blend of action and emotions bringing a sense of inner peace. In a health reading Temperance refers to the hips and thighs.

My Sagittarian friend and I decided to take a walk after dinner one hot summer’s evening at around sunset. My flatmate asked if we could take her puppy with us, as it hadn’t been out of the house all day. It was a border collie who loved to chase shadows. I suppose shadows are the closest thing a city dog can get to sheep!

We were only two streets away from home when a car approached. Its headlights were on, as the sun was about to set, and they cast shadows across the road. The dog saw this and leapt out onto the road in front of the car. I froze in my tracks, and mentally said goodbye to the animal. In a matter of two seconds I had pictured how I would explain the loss of the dog to my flatmate, and was working out how I could buy her another puppy.

My friend seized the moment and followed the dog out onto the road in front of the car. She stood firm, held up one hand and said, ‘STOP’. She maintained eye contact with the driver, who braked immediately, bringing the car to a stop just short of her legs. The dog raced around the side of the car, unharmed and unaware of the danger.

My friend knew in a split second that what she was about to attempt was possible, and that to stop the car she would need to have the driver’s complete attention. While I reacted in one way, she judged that different actions were appropriate for that particular situation.

The Temperance card suggests that your higher self and your lower self are in harmony with one another. You are acting with a sense of purpose, be it spiritual or practical. It represents doing what you can to become what you are capable of being.

Relationship meaning

Temperance suggests a relationship in which great growth and learning take place. A strong sense of purpose enables each partner to act in a way that is true to themselves as they link the unconscious (pool of water) with the real or material world (the land).

It can signify travel related to a relationship, or a Sagittarian person involved in a relationship. It also suggests a harmonious blend of the passionate and the spiritual within a relationship. Sometimes Temperance describes a relationship which increases each partner’s awareness of what is possible in life. As a result the partners may reach for greater opportunities in career, health, travel or wealth.

Temperance reversed

When reversed, the Temperance card can suggest learning instead of teaching. Travel is also indicated. More often, however, there is a split between the higher and lower selves, leading to intemperate behaviour. This card suggests that you are not listening to your divine self, or not nurturing it. This occurs when you are overindulging your human desires. This can occassionally be seen within whole cultures or societies where money or material possessions are valued over spiritual development. Perhaps ancient Rome might have been an example of Temperance reversed shortly before the fall of the Empire.

The reversed Temperance card relates to action without purpose. This includes travel without purpose. You may need to reacquaint yourself with your purpose before you embark on any course of action. This card also indicates a lack of awareness of what is appropriate in a situation, or going from one extreme to another. It can describe someone who seeks one goal after another in order to find fulfilment, only to be disappointed and to have to set yet another goal.

It is time to return to the Death card, to allow more changes to take place, or to allow more unnecessary possessions, people or habits to be removed from your life so that you can see further or more clearly your path ahead.

XV The Devil

The Devil is the illusion that there are no other alternatives. The feeling that, ‘This is all I have’ or ‘This is my only choice’. In a religious context, the Devil tempted man to forget his spiritual quest, his divine purpose. When man lost sight of his true purpose it made sense to take what pleasure life offered him.

The Devil represents a denial of any spiritual purpose to life. This leaves the way open for material pursuits and selfish goals. Such a restricted view often leads to misery and eventually despair, for even if you do manage to control yourself and those around you throughout your life, you often have to lose that control again during your final years or months. And when your physical life ends, how important will those material possessions and goals be to you?

The Devil means control—seeking to control life, your partner, your family or those you work with. In this card, the couple who were visible in the Lovers are now chained together. The Devil holds a flaming torch which ignites the man’s desires, allowing the animal side to dominate the spiritual side. They can, in fact, set themselves free, as the chains are loose enough to slip over their heads, but the Devil’s power lies in the illusion that escape is impossible—that there are no other alternatives.

If you are physically tied up, other people can see your bonds and perhaps set you free. If you are mentally tied up they may not notice, but if they do notice they will have to find out how it occurred in order to free you. It is a much more complicated process to release someone from their limiting beliefs about life than to free them physically, for beliefs are invisible. Only the results they produce are evidence that they exist.

The five-pointed star above the Devil’s head refers to the five points of the body. Upright, it represents the head, the outstretched arms and the legs, signifying the mind dominating the passions. When reversed, as it is in the Devil card, the star suggests the passions dominating the mind. Perhaps your passions are clouding your judgement.

The Devil indicates a reluctance to take responsibility for yourself and your actions. It appears when you blame other people for your lack of opportunity or limited choice, or when you see others as competition for the few opportunities available. These limitations exist in your mind and are independent of reality. Believing them can make you feel you have just cause for racism, sexism, or any other form of discrimination where others are blamed ‘for taking your share’ (of opportunities).

The Devil is a card for the astrological sign of Capricorn. Other cards for Capricorn are the Knight of Pentacles and, to a lesser degree, the other Pentacles Court cards. Part of the lesson for Capricorns is to rise above the material world and accept that you do indeed have a spiritual purpose. To deny this purpose limits your choices and opportunities in this life. When this is understood and you have released yourself from the bonds of the material world, the second part of the lesson involves a return to the deep, dark world of ordinary life to help those who are still imprisoned. It is the awareness that, as long as one man is lost or bound by the darkness, we all feel his burden. It is about gaining an awareness that we all spring from the same source and that we are all heading for the same destination.

General meaning

In a general reading, the Devil represents a need to control life. You have a limited view of your possibilities. This card describes feeling stuck or powerless, and desiring a more complete control over yourself and those around you.

The Devil depicts a materialistic view of life or, as Oscar Wilde said, ‘knowing the price of everything and the value of nothing’. It suggests restriction within a situation but reluctance to change. It is the attitude of ‘Better the Devil you know than the Devil you don’t’.

In a health reading, the Devil represents problems with the knees, the teeth or with skin allergies. In a career reading, the Devil signifies a controlling and absorbing ambition. It is a card of success in business, because most of the focus is on the end result—money.

During a Tarot course some years ago a student was taking an exam that involved giving a full reading to a stranger, in this case an attractive young woman. He sat and nervously examined the seven cards before he spoke. I sat behind him, observing and listening to how he conducted the reading. The more I listened, the more curious I became about this woman. In a few short sentences he painted a clear picture of this woman’s career, but he did not seem to make the connection. He was nervous, but behind him, unable to see the cards or the woman, I nevertheless had a clear idea of her chosen profession.

He began: ‘I can see that you work more at night than during the daytime. I can see a lot of men involved in your work. It seems to be somehow about sensual fulfilment, but I feel that you work more for the money than for any personal fulfilment. Is that right?’

‘Yes.’

‘It seems that you feel as though you have no alternative but to work there. I see a lot of men coming and going. It’s not like an office situation. It’s somehow different.’

At this she laughed. ‘I’m a working girl,’ she said with a shrug.

‘Oh yes, of course,’ came the shocked reply as the student realised what she meant.

Relationship meaning

In a relationship reading, the Devil can describe a relationship that began with love but has become a bind. Habits, routine and practicality have enslaved the hearts of those involved. It can also indicate being dominated by your desires or by convention, instead of acting according to your better judgement.

This card suggests acceptance of a bad situation, non-resistance to that which enslaves you, or reluctance to change. It suggests that you are clinging to the belief that there are people worse off than you. This is often true, but it’s merely an excuse for staying in a situation which offers you no learning, growth or joy.

Sometimes the Devil refers to a relationship based on jealousy or controlling obsession. It may indicate sexual obsessions, or staying in a relationship only for sexual reasons, even when you dislike your partner. It can also indicate sex being unrelated to emotions or to your inner self.

The Devil reversed

The Devil reversed indicates an attempt to break free of your chains, either physically or psychologically. You are now actively seeking change or new alternatives. You are no longer prepared to accept the current situation. You need to become conscious of your bonds before you can break them. This awareness can be more painful than the preceding ignorance. It is a necessary stage, because without experiencing this legitimate suffering you may not become whole again.

The Devil reversed can describe relinquishing the need to control life and the acceptance of the darker side of yourself. In doing this you can reclaim the energy used in suppressing your inner needs and desires, and use this energy for a more rewarding purpose. The Devil reversed shows the tentative steps towards liberation and towards choice. It can be the act of challenging people around you or your own beliefs about life. The five-pointed star is once again upright, and you can use your power of reason over your desires.

It is time to return to the upright Temperance card, to become aware that there is a greater spiritual purpose to life, and that life cannot be measured by physical accomplishments alone. In the rush to accomplish, achieve or to earn and acquire, the reversed Devil offers a reminder that coffins don’t have luggage racks. It is only spiritual knowledge and understanding that we can take with us from this life.

In a relationship question the Devil reversed can suggest an awareness of choices. Alongside the Seven of Swords it can describe a secret love affair. This card is more positive when reversed.

XVI The Tower

The Tower represents a structure of false or outgrown values. Your attitudes towards life no longer support you and need to be surrendered so that you can grow. This can come in the form of a flash of enlightenment, allowing a new understanding of life. The Tower leads you away from the repression of the Devil by showing you alternatives or by forcing you towards them. It brings the change you longed for but feared in the Devil card.

If you isolate yourself from the earth or the rhythms of nature you risk losing touch with life. Life encourages you to keep its rhythm, and if you do not, it can no longer fully support you. When the Tower appears, it won’t be long before you are forcibly thrust back into the rhythms of life, as gravity calls you back down to earth. When this occurs the Tower may appear in your layout to confirm the change.

This transformation is sudden and sometimes violent, particularly if you resist it. This is one change it is easier to flow with rather than to meet head on. Often your subconscious mind calls for this change to free you from the restrictions around you. The universe does not allow people to stray far from their spiritual path for long. When we become stuck and cannot free ourselves peacefully, life does whatever is necessary to free us. Your attitude to the transformation will often determine whether it is exciting or painful.

General meaning

When the Tower appears, it is time to shift. It’s too late to prepare for change or to decide how you would like to change. This change arrives unannounced, quickly, and it passes just as quickly. You are given no choice but to release the old. The Tower shocks you into the present, with an opportunity to begin a new way of living or existing. Remember that a part of you needs this change and that a part of you probably desires it at some level.

One day I was in the shower when I smelled smoke. It was rubber, or perhaps wood and plastic. It was definitely not toast, for I burn toast regularly and know that smell very well. I dressed hastily, noticing that it was becoming stronger all the while. I could hear fire engines, so I looked outside the window. Thick black smoke billowed upwards, obscuring the sun. A small crowd had gathered on the footpath three houses along, watching the firemen shout over the roar of engines and the hiss of leaking hose connections.

I saw a young woman with wet hair, wrapped in a towel, standing on the front lawn. She watched incredulously as the roof collapsed and flames leapt wildly into the sky. Within three minutes most of the house was destroyed and the neighbourhood was shrouded in an immense black cloud.

Later, people told me that she had been in the shower when the house caught fire. I remember wondering what she might have been avoiding to force such a sudden and drastic change to occur, or indeed what opportunities this might bring. It was very much the Tower card: powerful, quick and out of the blue. It was all over in 45 minutes, except for a few men left trying to get a ten-tonne truck out of her flowerbed and disentangle the fence from the front bumper.

In a career reading, the Tower foreshadows a sudden change in your job or in the company you are working for. I have seen this card in a layout shortly before a company went into receivership and before the client was retrenched.

In a health reading, it represents a sudden illness or a shock to your health. The Tower can also appear when friends and family are turning against you, when you’ve separated from your partner, lost your job, suddenly taken ill or been in a car accident. Alternatively, by handling problems in a grounded and realistic manner, the Tower need not occur.

Relationship meaning

The Tower describes a sudden change or collapse in a relationship. It signifies a structure or a pattern which simply cannot continue to exist. Sudden transformation occurs to enable you to grow once again.

I read for a man who had the Tower beside the Death card in the past position. I asked him to select an extra card, and he selected the Blank card. I studied him closely for a moment. ‘You look surprisingly relaxed and composed considering the changes you have been through in the last two years,’ I remarked.

He smiled. ‘Ah, at last. Somebody who understands what I’ve been through. You wouldn’t believe it. I don’t believe it, and I was there. I was engaged to be married and everything was rosy. Then one day I was retrenched. In the following six months my car was repossessed, the bank foreclosed on the mortgage, my fiancée left me and went to live with my parents. Can you believe it? My parents. As if she didn’t have any of her own. Now my parents don’t speak to me, I’m single, my fiancée’s parents won’t acknowledge that I’m alive and most of my friends have turned their backs on me.’

‘But you don’t look unhappy.’

‘Unhappy? I feel great. Life has been very good to me and I am truly grateful. I could be married just to please my parents, driving a boring car and living in a box in the suburbs. As it is I am single, drive a wreck and do what I love to do. I have been given back my life, although I didn’t realise I had given it away, piece by piece.’

The Tower reversed

When the Tower appears reversed change is still evident, but it is less dramatic or complete than in the upright Tower card. It can describe a continuing feeling of being blocked or imprisoned, as you don’t allow the full transformation to take place. By keeping a firm control over your actions you can lessen the pain, but in doing so you also lessen the growth. This card indicates that you need to return to the upright Devil card, to release outdated beliefs or to examine viable alternatives to your issues.

The Tower reversed shows a refusal to release what you’ve repressed. This can lead to a build-up of energy that may result in another sudden, explosive change. Sooner or later the change will occur despite your resistance to it. It also describes the action of inhabiting the shell of the past, and making do with a situation that is no longer appropriate.

Alfred and Christine had been separated for more than two years when I visited him, yet it was as though she was still living there. All of the belongings Christine had chosen not to take with her were still where she had left them. Even some of her clothes were in the wardrobe. Alfred was living around Christine’s possessions in what amounted to a museum dedicated to her. ‘You could use a fire sale,’ I remarked pointedly, ‘And if you want to make it a genuine fire sale, I have a box of matches in the car.’ Alfred was refusing to change and to adapt to his new life, and life’s subtle attempts at helping him to change were being ignored.

XVII The Star

After the change of the Tower comes peace. The Star is a card of faith in yourself and in life’s possibilities. Having been through an emotional upheaval, a sense of peace and contentment soon returns. Contentment in the sense of having nothing which needs attention or needs to be resolved. The sense of urgency found in the Tower is replaced with a sense of stillness and peace.

The woman in this card is holding two jugs. She pours the contents of one into a pool of water and the contents of the other onto the land. The sky is clear and eight stars, each with eight points, are clearly visible. An ibis sits in the tree with its wings outstretched. The ibis is the hieroglyph or symbol for Thoth. Thoth was the ancient Egyptian lord of time. He was also the keeper of the Akashic records, scribe to the gods and the patron of healers.

The Star is a card for healing, inner healing and realising your true purpose in this lifetime. After all the material desires have been resolved in the Devil and you have allowed those beliefs that were unrealistic to collapse in the Tower, you are free to pursue your true purpose in the Star. You are free to listen with your own heart to the heart of the world. You can listen to your inner need to express the universal plan, and you can reach into the pool of water (the unconscious through your subconscious mind) for the source of knowledge and energy required to do this.

Each time you produce something tangible or real from the creative source (the pool), a part of what you create flows directly back to the source. (Note that one stream of water from the jug in her left hand flows back to the pool.) Other people in other parts of the world can then access your insights as they are contained in the pool. Carl Jung named this the ‘collective unconscious’. It has also been called the soul of the world or universal memory. This is where Thoth is a part of the Star, for he was the god who kept the Akashic records—the records believed to contain the complete activities of every being who ever lived or who will ever live.

The Star grants a direct access to the unconscious that the High Priestess only sensed through the veil that separated her from the pool. The eight points on the star refer to the eight deities in the company of Thoth. Eight is a number of strength and regeneration, and as Thoth is the patron of healers it can be seen as healing yourself.

The Star is a card for the astrological sign of Aquarius, the other cards being the King of Swords and, to a lesser degree, the other Swords Court cards. One lesson for Aquarius involves finding the freedom to pierce the veil between the conscious and the unconscious, and to shatter the narrow-mindedness that exists between truth and tradition. The lesson also involves recognising the god within (the unconscious) and channelling this energy into physical form. This is often met with opposition: inner opposition from your respect for tradition and outer opposition from your natural resistance to change.

General meaning

The Star is a card for renewed hope after the Tower has removed some of those routines or possessions you mistakenly believed to be of value in your life. It represents an inner faith that tomorrow will be better. You can directly experience the unconscious rather than its signs and images. You can experience this powerful energy and channel it into your life. For example, an artist utilises this energy for her work in order to produce something which touches the heart and soul of other people. It is a card for faith, hope and inner peace.

In everyday terms, the Star can suggest a holiday or a time when you feel unhurried or at peace. A sense that you have room to think and to move accompanies this card. It is a time when you realise that you are a link between the unconscious and the physical world. What you choose to express of the unconscious is up to you, but your best work or most moving expressions often come from the clearest links with the unconscious.

Relationship meaning

The Star suggests that you have faith that circumstances will be positive within a relationship. Enough freedom and space exists to fulfil your own destiny and still be in a loving relationship. The Star can describe a relationship that assists in strengthening the link between the unconscious and the conscious worlds. In other words, you may be able to live in your truth or be who you truly are in a relationship that offers you support and freedom.

This card may suggest a holiday with a partner or a feeling of space and room to be yourself within this partnership. Karmic connections are also suggested here. It is possible that you are fated to be together or to experience the events that will unfold in this relationship.

The Star appeared in the past position in a love relationship question for Toby and he explained how for the first time in his life, he felt free, equal and open with his partner, Theresa. They had recently spent two weeks travelling through the tropical islands of Queensland together and Toby was surprised at how they managed to remain connected to each other while being independent and flexible.

Toby’s previous partners had expected him to entertain them on holiday, whereas Theresa seemed content to explore the island alone if Toby wanted to take a short nap in the steamy heat of a lazy afternoon. Theresa accepted his need to rest while honouring her desire to explore, so that both partners enjoyed their holiday.

In the cool evenings over dinner Theresa described her experiences that day. Some nights Toby asked if they might retrace her steps together the next day, when a location sounded particularly appealing.

The Star reversed

The Star reversed indicates that you are not presently in touch with the source of your unconscious energy and may be feeling restricted by life or disconnected from your creative source. This is a card for an artist or a person who is professionally creative but cannot seem to come up with new ideas. You currently lack inspiration, as you have no connection with the unconscious.

You may feel that you need a break, a holiday or more freedom, but freedom is needed within your mind rather than in a physical form. When the Star appears reversed it indicates being cut off from life or the soul of the world. Emptiness and loneliness or a retreat into the intellect can result, as well as a lack of faith that circumstances can improve in the future.

It is likely that you are cut off from your purpose and your work here in this life. Routines are not bringing you the same fulfilment, nor are you able to give them the same commitment. It is time to return to the Tower, to remove those habits, routines and perhaps people which are no longer worthwhile in your life so that you can find a clear, simple connection with the unconscious.

XVIII The Moon

In the Moon, a dog and a wolf bay at the moon as a crayfish emerges from a pool of water. A path leads away from this pool, between two towers and over the hills. The challenge here is to follow the path from the pool without being overcome by fears aroused by the dog and the wolf. These animals represent your lower, animal nature and the fears you hold of circumstances unknown or not fully understood.

If you have ever experienced a great loss or fear about impending changes in your life you may have noticed how during the day you generally coped reasonably well. It was probably at night that your fears or grief came back to you with full force. Whereas the sun illuminates the outer world, the moon illuminates the inner world of feelings, imagination, hopes and fears.

The imagination is very powerful. It can create peace, harmony and joy within or it can create panic, terror, sadness and anger. For example, if I describe a hairy long-legged spider making its way slowly across the face of a small child who is sleeping in a cane lounge on a balcony, you have an image and perhaps a reaction. If I now describe the crisp white linen tablecloth flapping about your feet as you sip a cool drink and watch the sun lazily sinking into the sea, another image, and perhaps another reaction, is experienced. Now think of someone who has hurt you deeply in the past, or some unresolved situation. Every time you think of this person or that situation you may experience some of the pain again. Your imagination is hurting you now, using that person or the situation without their knowledge and without their consent. How many people do you know who use their imagination in this fruitless destructive fashion?

The Moon is a card for dreams and imagination. Dreams are subconscious energy transformed into images. A rush of energy which is too great to be absorbed or understood can result in wild dreams, nightmares or, in extreme cases, madness. The term lunacy comes from the word ‘luna’, meaning moon.

The unconscious fears presented in the Moon have to be faced alone, for they go deeper than words to the animal nature within us. If you have the faith gained in the Star and can accept these wild things delivered from your unconscious, the terrors subside, the waters settle and the path remains. The path leads over the mountains to the Sun, but you cannot fully appreciate the outer world until you are at peace with the inner world.

The Moon represents turning away from outer concerns and becoming introspective. It indicates a strong connection with the subconscious through dreams. It is one of the cards for the astrological sign of Cancer, the other cards being the Chariot and the Cups Court cards. The second part of the lesson for Cancer is to overcome personal fears in order to use the imagination creatively.

General meaning

The Moon represents strong dreams, and intuition reaching your conscious mind through dreams. You may be able to recall dreams easily upon wakening, or you may find that you are tired or exhausted after the usual number of hours sleep, as strong dreams are interrupting your sleeping patterns. Powerful dreams are trying to tell you something. Listen to your dreams and you may find an answer you seek.

The Moon in a career reading often refers to an artistic or creative career, or working at night more than during the day. Typical careers could include writing, photography, interior design or any work that requires the use of your imagination.

Deceit is sometimes suggested when the Moon appears in a spread. Some things are being hidden from view, so look deeper than the surface to find out what is actually going on in a situation.

The Moon suggests that you need to face your fears, for they may be preventing you from doing or achieving something. Pay attention to your subconscious mind.

Relationship meaning

The Moon in a relationship reading suggests that everything is fine on the surface, but there is turbulence beneath—while you might have a perfectly harmonious day-to-day existence, underneath there are issues not discussed, recognised or resolved. Perhaps you have some fears about deeper commitment, or you want to leave the relationship but fear holds you back. Your partner may be reminding you of things you have yet to resolve from past relationships or from your relationship with your parents. Circumstances are not as they appear, and if you listen to your dreams or your subconscious you may discover what is really taking place beneath the surface of your mind.

The Moon reversed

When the Moon appears reversed the animals in this card and the fears they represent are calling to you to deal with them. Dreams become nightmares now as you seek solutions to the differences between your inner and outer worlds. You may find yourself setting up arguments or disagreements in the physical world in a bid to conquer those fears which lie within. You could be putting these challenges into physical form so that you can deal with them in a clear way in the safety of day rather than try to conquer shadowy figures lurking in the moonlight.

The reversed Moon suggests unresolved situations coming back to you. It is time to meet these challenges within instead of retreating to the relative safety of the physical world. This can be a time to return to the Star in order to experience faith and hopefulness. This will remind you that the same pool which contains your fears also contains your strengths and the solutions to the problems you may be experiencing.

XIX The Sun

After the Moon, the Sun is a joyful release. It is the power of consciousness to dispel darkness. It represents an innate drive towards expression of the unconscious and subconscious forces within. It is hopeful, idealistic and childlike. The child rides naked, unrestricted by fears, convention or opposing forces within, because these things have been resolved in the previous cards (lessons). The garden is the inner garden or the soul, and the feather in the child’s hair is a reminder of the Fool or the start of the journey. There is a connection with animals (the horse), plants (sunflowers), the elements (sun, air) and with the physical world through the stone wall.

This card represents a time of clarity, optimism and joy in all opportunities under the sun. Circumstances are clearly visible now and there is no trace of the fears experienced in the Moon. The Sun indicates an understanding of the depths of life, yet a contentment with the shallows. It shows an active, creative and energetic state, one which children usually experience naturally. The difference here is that you have faced your fears in the Moon and no longer possess the typical child’s fear of the dark or of unknown things. You have faced your shadow in the Devil, your fears in the Moon and experienced your creative possibilities in the Star, and now the Sun finds you happy to express your inner self in your own particular way.

The Sun is a card for the sign of Leo. It is a three-part lesson, the first part of which involves acknowledging the beast within you in the Strength card. In the Sun card the grey stone wall represents the past, and it also serves as a boundary, keeping out the negative influences other people might bring to you. It is an ego boundary, and establishing ego boundaries is the second part of the Leo lesson. The wall keeps out confusion and distraction, allowing you to connect directly with the unconscious and to express it clearly. The sunflowers show the bright personality and positive expression established in the Queen of Wands, another Leo card. The third part of the lesson for the sign of Leo is to express yourself, or to express God or the creator through yourself, in a simple and joyous fashion.

General meaning

The Sun is a card for the astrological sign of Leo, especially if alongside Strength, the Queen of Wands or the other Wands Court cards. It suggests a creative career involving self-expression, such as acting, painting, dancing or singing. It is a card of tremendous success in life, careers or relationships.

The Sun signifies joy, inner peace and a sense of the universe as a place of fun and creative possibilities. The Sun is a burst of freedom. It is a wonderful liberation from the ordinary everyday restrictions of the conscious mind to an openness, awareness and freedom. It is a freedom within that leads to freedom in the physical world. Joy, peace, happiness and a creative approach to life are shown with the Sun, along with a deep sense of the beauty of life.

The Sun shares the optimism of the Fool, the purpose of the Magician, the intuitive understanding of the High Priestess and the passions of the Empress. It includes the practicality of the Emperor, the spiritual awareness of the Hierophant, the awareness of the role of others in your life as shown in the Lovers, and the emotional discipline of the Chariot.

The Sun draws on the inner strength found in Strength, the wisdom gained from reflection in the Hermit, the awareness of life and its cycles found in the Wheel of Fortune, the recognition of karma, and injustice in Justice and the surrender to life of the Hanged Man. It is a product of the surrender to change in Death, the appropriate use of action in Temperance, the shadow faced in the Devil, the release in the Tower, the faith and hopefulness of the Star, and the final descent into the subconscious to face fears in the Moon to produce a confidence based on knowledge and direct experience.

Above all, the Sun is a card for being happy with your life and yourself. It represents an inner knowledge that challenges are important to test you and to help you to fully appreciate the gifts life is continually giving you. It is an awareness that happiness is a choice, and it need not have any bearing on your physical surrounds.

Perhaps it is time that someone offered a course in happiness. A diploma in happiness is one credential you can wear on your face and hold deep within your being.

Relationship meaning

A creative, playful relationship is shown in the Sun, where childlike spontaneity and playfulness are evident in day-to-day living and sharing. It is a relationship where you put effort into being fulfilled in a creative way. I know a man who spends a great deal of time thinking of creative ways to tell his partner how he values her. From love notes placed in the freezer to a huge heart drawn on the kitchen floor in rice. From messages taped inside the folds of the living room curtains, to a pair of tickets for her favourite ballet placed inside her slippers to be discovered in the early hours of the morning.

This couple play together, and they intuitively know the value of friendship within a love relationship. The Sun is a card for enjoying the simple pleasures of life together while still having a deep understanding of life, and knowing that whenever you have a deep purpose the universe conspires to support you in achieving it. It signifies creative romance in a love relationship.

The Sun reversed

Even when reversed the Sun is a positive card, although some of your fears still need to be resolved. When the Sun is upright you know that life and the universe will support you, but when reversed it suggests that you have some doubts. Clouds cover the sun now, and although it is still daytime some of the warmth and brightness are lost as you deal with inner fears left over from your contact with the Moon.

The Sun reversed can signify a competitive attitude to life and creativity, based on the fear that there is not enough to go around—not enough support, opportunities or love. It can be a basic fear that the universe will not support you in your endeavours. In a relationship reading, it can suggest two people who compete with one another. It suggests a return to the upright Moon to face your fears and the negative use of your imagination.

In a career reading, this card suggests a successful sales or marketing career or a creative career that involves plenty of competition. It can describe a creative project that is successful in the eyes of others, but from which you expect more. You will need to achieve more in order to feel fulfilled. Competing with yourself or with an ideal of perfection is shown with the Sun reversed.

XX Judgement

In the Judgement card an angel sounds a trumpet at the last judgement and people rise from their graves to rejoice. A flag with a red cross on a white background is flying. Every man, woman and child looks upwards to spirit for the way home to God or the creator.

The Judgement card refers to that time when your old beliefs about life have died and you are called from within to rise to a more meaningful existence. In other words, your inner self urges you to remember that you are a spiritual being learning to be human, not the other way around. It is a time to rise above your limited beliefs about life, gained through your experience, to see life as it truly is. You do this by making one last descent into the waters of the unconscious, or into spirit, in order to return with an understanding that is not tainted but pure. You have left behind the self and have become aware of how all things spring from the same energy, the same life force, and that appearances and approaches to life are the only things that differentiate us from one another.

All illusions of isolation are dissolved as you recognise that all things in the world are one. It is a realisation that you have the force of God within you, and this is what urges you home to spirit. ‘How can I meet God directly?’ you may ask.

‘How can you avoid God?’ I ask you in return. Every breath you take, every meal you eat, every person you meet and every animate or inanimate thing on this earth is God or spirit in a different form.

The Judgement card represents coming to terms with past experience as a step to going beyond it. You are the sum total of your past actions, and these actions have created the future before you. This is your harvest. You may harvest wheat or weeds, love or bitterness, but you planted what you are about to harvest and there can be no excuses now. This is your work, laid out before you. The time for harvest has arrived and the Fool must now answer for his journey. God (or your higher self or the creator) is calling you home now, and it is time to put your most recent efforts into perspective by placing them against a background of universal understanding. Judgement is a time when you are aware of how your past has created your present and how your present choices have consequences.

The man, the woman and the child represent each perspective you have viewed life from to gain the clearest understanding of the physical world. The Buddhists teach that the purpose of successive lives is to allow for a fuller understanding of life through the direct experience of life in all its forms. I can tell you what it feels like to be me, a man with my experience, but unless you are a man and have shared my experience you cannot reasonably be expected to fully understand what I have become as a result. It is like trying to explain colours to a blind person.

All the people in this card rise up and rejoice together, a reminder that there is no enlightenment for one without enlightenment for all, as seen in the Devil card. By the same token, any personal clarity of judgement enables everyone to have a slightly clearer judgement. The Judgement card depicts the realisation that all life is interconnected.

The cross on the flag represents the meeting of linear time and universal time, suggesting that on some level you have already arrived at your destination, but while you believe in linear time (as you must to exist on the physical plane) you are still progressing towards your clarity of judgement.

General meaning

The Judgement card is a time of clarity of judgement. As an answer to a question, the Judgement card suggests that you have clear judgement in this instance. It is a time of understanding what you have learned from the trials and challenges life has presented.

Victoria consulted me to confirm the wisdom of a decision she had made. She was three months pregnant, and due to her unusual blood type she had been warned of possible complications during the birth. Doctors had recommended that she undergo tests involving the removal of fluid from the unborn child to test its blood type. She was horrified at the thought of interrupting her child’s natural progress with a cold needle, so she decided against the test. ‘I feel that the child will be a different blood type from me anyway, and the doctor advised me that, if this is the case, any problems during the birth would be eliminated,’ she explained. She wanted to know if her decision to refuse the test was a wise one. The Judgement card upright confirmed that it was the most appropriate decision. Six months later the child was born without complications.

The Judgment card can also describe an awareness of your spiritual purpose and of the steps necessary to achieve it. It represents those times in life when you see yourself and your life with great clarity. This can bring great joy or dismay at what you stand to harvest because of what you have begun. The harvest is near, and you can face your reward with integrity and honesty. You judge yourself now, and there can be no excuses for not receiving what you had hoped for as the harvest is a product of your efforts.

Relationship meaning

A relationship that offers great spiritual growth and learning is suggested by the Judgement card. A karmic lesson or reward is contained within your present partnership and, once again, what you have is the product of the seeds you planted and the efforts you have made.

This relationship is the product of past actions, and it is likely to encourage a greater awareness of yourself, your patterns or your life’s purpose. Examine what you harvest in this relationship, for in doing so you will know what actions will produce these results. What you have currently is not accidental.

Nothing changes visibly with the Judgement card, but much is changed underneath. It is illustrated in the ancient Chinese saying:

Before enlightenment

Chop wood. Carry water.

After enlightenment

Chop wood. Carry water.

Judgement reversed

When Judgement is reversed there are objections to the call from within. Perhaps reason and logic are dissuading you from giving up ‘all that you have’ for something intangible or unseen. An emptiness grows with each moment you deny or postpone the call. Your time of harvest has arrived and you must answer for your previous decisions as this chapter closes in your life.

Often when Judgement appears reversed you are searching for something that will fill an ever-increasing gap in your life. You are unaware that the call is from within, along with the solution. In simple terms, the Judgement card refers to a lack of clarity of judgement.

Ingrid came to me hoping to be cured of an illness that nobody had been able to successfully treat. She was 74 years of age and very well dressed. This was a woman in complete control of life and herself. She spent 40 minutes telling me about herself, having only praise for herself and her achievements. It was an exhausting 40 minutes for me, for she seemed to think that the world began and ended with her; no one was as important as Ingrid. I felt anger rising within me—how could someone live for 74 years and still be so completely selfish? There was an absence of wisdom here, only greed and power abused in order to maintain control over others.

‘I was a very beautiful woman you know. I was a catwalk model, and had my pick of many of the most eligible men of Europe, some of them married. I was engaged to a very handsome man, but I broke it off after I slept with another man. After all, I could not really have loved him if I could cheat on him so easily.’

I found myself thinking that the closest she had ever come to love was looking in a mirror. I realised how sad her plight was and how lonely she must have been. In 74 years she appeared not to have surrendered to life, to anyone, or to simple childlike impulses. She was unable to hear me when I spoke, for anything I said only reminded her of something she simply had to say.

She was incurable. That is, she was only able to be cured from within—incurable. She was spiritually hungry but somehow unable to receive any support from life, from the universe or from people around her. She wanted me to assist her to remove the physical symptoms. I was unable to help her to understand that they were merely symptoms. Symptoms have a cause, and without treating the cause new symptoms were likely to emerge.

Often when Judgement falls reversed you may be using drugs, alcohol or sensual gratification to make up for the emptiness within. Listen to your heart. Let it tell you of the sadness you carry through your days and nights, of the dreams you dare not say out loud and of the hope you have sacrificed to life’s demanding practicalities.

Roland was 30 years old, and felt he was too young to have a heart problem. We worked together in counselling sessions for some months, and during that time we discovered much that his heart was trying to tell him that he did not want to hear.

In his childhood he had been the victim of severe sexual abuse by a group of men who drugged him into unconsciousness before performing indecent acts on him. He described it this way: ‘I’m sure I could cope with whatever they did to me, but I don’t know what they did. I struggled against the gas mask until I lost consciousness, and would awaken cold, alone and wet from being recently washed down by someone unknown. It happened regularly, and I recall wishing I could die so I didn’t have to return to consciousness.’ At this point he burst into tears. ‘I nearly did die a couple of times. They must have given me too much of the gas, because one day I awoke to see two men pounding on my chest while a third man shouted instructions. I was eight years old at the time. I hated my heart from that day onwards because it didn’t let me die.’

I asked him to ask his heart what it had to say in response to his recognition of his disappointment with it. I asked him to listen to what it whispered from within. He replied, ‘It says that it asked me at the time if I wanted to die, but my spirit was not present in my body so it kept on beating with the hope that my spirit would eventually return and help it to decide. It was only doing what it felt was best, given the circumstances.’

By thanking his heart for doing what it felt was best, Roland was able to begin to fill the huge void which he carried around with him. He began taking responsibility for his own development and turning the Judgement card upright again. His health, which had steadily been in decline, began to stablise and gradually it started to improve. It was a slow process, almost imperceptible at first.

When Judgement appears reversed it is time to return to the upright Sun card, to play. Sometimes self-awareness can be offered by playfulness, creativity and spontaneity. The term ‘recreation’ reflects how we re-create ourselves when we play and rest.

XXI The World

The World is a card suggesting lasting success. Your soul and the soul of the world or the universe are in accord, and when harmony exists between the two all things are possible. The zero above the Fool now surrounds the figure in the World, and she is clearly aware that there is no beginning and no end as all things are interconnected.

She carries her wands loosely now, for she recognises that it is the intention and not the ritual that brings about a desired result. The four animals (including the human animal) in the four corners of the card are in full colour now, for she is aware of the four elements and the need to bring them together in harmony. The four elements have a spiritual basis, shown by the fact that they all appear in clouds—the same clouds or spirit that issued the wand, cup, sword and pentacle in the Aces of the four suits. In this way, the lessons of the Minor Arcana are remembered and put into practise.

The wreath surrounding her signifies success—an ongoing success as the wreath has no beginning or end. She is moving and so too are all things in the universe, from the lungs filling with breath to the planets revolving around the sun and the galaxies within the universe. True success does not end movement, because stagnation and decay result when a situation or a person cease to evolve.

The sashes are the infinity signs found above the Magician and again in Strength. Once again she remembers that the universe is energy and that she is simply another manifestation of that energy. She has gone beyond the ritual to understand that all she needs will be given to her and that all she has to do is ask, and to ask in a way that the universe can understand.

General meaning

The World indicates travel around the world, or great success and happiness.

In everyday terms, it suggests that you are where life wants you to be, and you feel supported by life and by people around you. It depicts happiness that does not spring from having or doing, but from being.

In a career reading, the World describes great success and fulfilment. This card appeared as the answer to a question about career recently, with the Sun as the outcome. Both were upright. I described a creative career which held enormous promise for success, possibly overseas, or at least with recognition overseas. The man was a cartoonist and was about to land a contract with one of America’s largest animation motion picture production houses. The Sun showed the creativity while the World described the success.

If someone asks whether it is wise to pursue a project, relationship, or course of action and the World appears as the answer, it is a clear yes. It is wise, however, to take the other cards into consideration for a more accurate prediction.

Relationship meaning

The World signifies good opportunities for a long-lasting relationship. It shows that you are in a compatible partnership, where you and your partner can grow, develop and exist completely within the boundaries agreed upon.

Great dynamic force exists in this relationship. It is not a partnership to be taken lightly or ignored. Sometimes it can indicate a partner who is in another part of the world or, if in the past position, someone you may have met while travelling in another part of the world.

The World reversed

When the World appears reversed the woman loses her grip on these wands, as her judgement becomes cloudy and she believes things she has not released in the Judgement card. She must return once again to Judgement and purify her understanding of the universe.

Travel around the world is still suggested when this card is reversed. It can also suggest a career or relationship success that cannot be contained, and so it has to be released—for example, an actor who achieves world recognition only to fade into obscurity once again. As the saying goes: ‘Better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.’

Beyond this success lies even greater success, because although you cannot contain the world in your hand now it is only a matter of time before you can. This is not your last challenge as there will be other, greater challenges to follow.

I liken this card to climbing a very tall mountain only to find that the steep slope obscured an even taller mountain that you need to climb. Some think that this success brings happiness and lose sight of the fact that happiness actually brings success.

Chapter 20

THE STORY OF THE MAJOR ARCANA

The Fool A child is born, and as the soul enters the physical world it chooses to forget much of the universal knowledge it possesses in order to learn its lesson of this lifetime.

The Magician Coming to grips with the physical body, the child learns that even goals that appear impossible to achieve can be realised in the right circumstances. The appropriate place, time, motive and tools enable great achievements. Power flows through him, but he is not the source of this power.

The High Priestess In between all this activity the child rests, and in sleep (in dreams) another part of the child is developing. The intuitive, passive and receptive child is also growing.

The Empress Now the mother features, and she is loving, caring and practical in the support she gives the child. She is open to receiving the child’s passions and is receptive when the child expresses himself.

The Emperor The father is guiding the child in the ways of the world and teaching this child what other people outside the family will one day expect of him. The child sometimes views the father’s influence as restrictive, as he does not enjoy learning about physical limitation and how to finish what he begins. At this stage he prefers the mother for the freedom of expression she allows.

The Hierophant While the Empress and the Emperor (or mother and father) take care of the child’s physical and emotional needs, they leave room for the Hierophant to take care of his spiritual discipline and learning. While the Emperor shows the child how he fits into the community, the Hierophant tries to show the child how he fits into the universe. The Hierophant might take the form of spiritual or religious groups, or books on spirituality.

The Lovers As the child grows and develops with the physical and emotional guidance of his parents, and the spiritual guidance of the Hierophant, he reaches puberty and experiences the sexual urge. This drives the young man to form a different sort of relationship from his previous relationships, and he begins to question the people who have taught him. He experiences his first equal loving relationship and transfers some of his love for his parents to his new partner.

The Chariot His emotions are alternately turbulent and calm, and he finds it necessary to discipline them so that they don’t overpower him. He subjects the opposing forces of his mind and his emotions to his will.

Strength He soon becomes tired of subjecting everything to his will, along with the resulting lack of spontaneity, and finds the strength within to allow life to take him where it will emotionally, in order to find himself. He realises that he is not the centre of the universe. He also acknowledges the beast within him, and in doing so has access to the energy the beast receives. Strength flows through him, but he is not the source of the strength.

The Hermit Having accepted the beast within he can now turn his attention to his mind, and for this he needs peace and quiet. In peaceful surrounds he begins his conscious psychic development by studying the abundant symbols that his mind offers him. In time, he discovers how to be alone without being lonely. He discovers his inner voice.

The Wheel of Fortune As the boy becomes a man he comprehends the seasons of time, and realises that all ideas, goals and possibilities have a place and a time. He becomes aware of the opposing forces of nature: Fire, Earth, Air and Water. He is aware of how little he knows, and he begins to sense the difference between universal time and linear or man-made (arbitary) time.

Justice Realising how he had previously judged events without examining their causes he now develops an understanding of why events occur and that life offers him lessons within challenges. He accepts cause and effect. He understands universal justice and that universal laws cannot be traversed like man-made laws.

The Hanged Man As the tree stands patiently through winter while the earth replenishes itself in preparation for spring and summer, so the young man sits and patiently awaits what life will bring next. All things must pass. It is time for him to reflect on past actions and experiences in order to realise what is no longer necessary in his life.

Death The old must eventually move aside to make way for the new. The man finds that he must say goodbye to parts of himself. This might take the form of saying goodbye to friends, a home or work environment, or even a partner. All these are only symptoms of the change that occurs within. He remembers that there is strength in surrender.

Temperance Balance and harmony are restored after the change, and the man is left with a deeper awareness of his purpose. He learns the appropriate use of action: knowing when to move and when to wait. He sees that harmony within leads to harmony around him in the physical world.

The Devil He faces the beast within once again, only this time he must rise above its desire for material possessions and control over others. His soul reminds him that there is more to life than his senses indicate.

The Tower He is reluctant to give up his comfortable material existence, so life must make it impossible for him to exist in current circumstances and encourage him to move on. Sudden change occurs, and he must leave behind those circumstances he once felt were safe and secure.

The Star The new environment and the relinquishing of old habits and possessions combine to remind him to live in the ‘here and now’. This spontaneity brings an awareness of his creative abilities. He is even more aware of his purpose; to channel unconscious energy (the pool of water) into a conscious form (the land). He develops a hopeful outlook on life as well as faith in life’s possibilities.

The Moon Once more he is required to look within, this time to face his own unconscious fears and demons. His imagination delivers both creative and frightening things to his conscious mind, and he must go deeper within to face the beast or demons. He finds that he must take this journey through his subconscious to the unconscious by moonlight (at night alone or through dreams), and his fears have the faces of animals.

The Sun Having faced his fears in the Moon he finds an approach to life which has the simplicity of a child with the depth of an adult. He is free to express himself, and he experiences a happiness both on the surface and within. He has access to his complete imagination, having explored his deeper imagination in the Moon. He can now draw on this for creative purposes.

Judgement As the final years of his life draw close the mature man must heed a call from within to a higher existence. He begins to accept that everything in the universe is interconnected. He can now discard old beliefs for a deeper understanding, and in doing so develops a deeper understanding of life. He realises that he is the sum total of his past actions and beliefs, and that these have created the future that now awaits him.

The World Now the aged man understands that everything in the universe is in constant movement, either increasing or decreasing. Having balanced the Fire, Water, Air and Earth within himself, he can now enjoy lasting success. He has mastered the lessons life held for him, and his reward is inner peace and fulfilment.

The Fool A child is born, and as the soul enters the physical world it chooses to forget much of the universal knowledge it has accumulated, in order to learn its lesson this lifetime. The child enters the world with innocence and with love. Soon she will replace innocence with knowledge and understanding, and, sadly, chances are that she will probably replace some of her love with fear. Her task ahead is to meet all the challenges with the courage that comes from love—both self-love and a love of others. Life will offer this child many opportunities to learn her lessons and will reward her for each step taken.

For a colour reference see The Story of the Major Arcana chart in the colour section of the book.

Chapter 21

TAROT CARD LAYOUTS

Reading procedure

There are as many types of layouts as there are Tarot readers, and the layout you prefer is probably the one that will work best for you. No matter which layout you choose, there are a few basic procedures you will need to perform when reading the cards for other people.

1. Ask the client to shuffle the cards, reversing some in the process. To do this they cut the pack, rotating the top half 180 degrees, then return the cards to the rest of the pack and shuffle them. When this is done, they return the pack to you face down.

2. Turn the whole pack over sideways (do not invert the cards and reverse their meanings) and examine the card that faces you. This card represents the issue that is foremost on the client’s mind, or the reason they have consulted you. You can mention this card and its meaning or simply remember it for later on.

3. Return the whole pack to the client and ask them to place the cards face down, one at a time, into three piles on the table until they run out of cards.

4. Place the three piles together to form one pack. The purpose of the last step is to ensure the client gives the cards a thorough shuffle (no two cards land together) and to have them touch each card, charging it with their energy prior to the reading.

5. Spread the pack into a fan shape (across the table in a slight arc) and have the client select cards with their eyes closed, with their non-writing hand.

If you are giving a general reading it is best if they have a clear mind when selecting cards. For a question layout, they need to concentrate on an agreed question.

6. As the client selects each card and places it face down on the table, turn it over sideways and place it into position according to the layout you are using. (see the Seven Card Layout chart in the additional chart section of the book).

Your purpose in giving readings is to paint a picture with words. The client wants to know how their life looks from where you stand, or if you can see something from your perspective that they have missed. Take your time before interpreting any card or layout. Try not to say too much, because you want to paint a picture with clear, simple strokes rather than complicated patterns.

Remember to pause from time to time, to allow the client to absorb what you have said. A pause also allows the client to ask for clarification if they are confused.

The one-card cut

Ask the client to shuffle the pack, reversing some cards, until they are satisfied with their efforts. They then place the pack face down on the table. Ask them to close their eyes and focus on the question or situation as they cut the pack at random. They then turn the cards in their hand over sideways to reveal the face of the top card.

It is very important to limit this technique to two or three questions only, or you may end up answering a long list of shallow or irrelevant questions. A friend cornered me one day and asked 19 questions in a row by this method. He eventually became totally confused until I suggested that for the twentieth question he should ask, ‘Are you still answering my questions accurately?’ The answer was ‘No.’ He ignored this and cut to the Blank card for the next three questions.

Tarot is not a game. If you treat it as such you may as well buy some playing cards, which are a fraction of the cost and their games much easier to learn. Try to avoid the trap of asking the cards questions that you might easily answer yourself.

A flatmate came rushing out of my office one morning with my cards in his hands (my office was at home).

‘What does the Knight of Swords upright mean?’

‘What was the question?’

‘Will I make the 8.24 a.m. bus?’

‘Run, you idiot,’ I shouted. ‘The bus stop is only 90 seconds away.’

Each of us has the free will to change anything that is predicted. It is important to remember this, and to remind your clients when you read for them.

At first you may be unsure which is the appropriate meaning for each card on the table before you. Practice improves this, because the more you read the more your intuition improves, until one day you find that you have been talking clearly for five or ten minutes without having glanced down at the cards in front of you.

Clients or friends want you to be accurate. They will usually disregard any extra meanings you attach to each card, remembering only those meanings that are relevant. Choose the single meaning you feel or think most suits that particular reading if you want to avoid talking until you are hoarse or they fall asleep.

Practice, practice and more practice helps you to understand the cards. After 25 readings the layout you choose will be familiar to you. After 40 readings the cards will make sense to you without the need to refer to this book. After 50 readings the word will be out that you are reading Tarot cards, and friends of friends will be telephoning for readings.

Readings for friends are often some of the hardest readings you’re likely to give. Why? Your friends are not used to you in the role of a Tarot reader, and they often challenge you, get bored, look out the window, answer the phone when it rings or tend to the baby just as you come to the best part of your reading. I make it a rule never to read for anyone at their own house, even when they are paying for a reading, because inevitably the microwave calls them away, the baby cries or a neighbour pops by with that half-kilo of potting mix they borrowed on the first Thursday in July last year. It doesn’t improve your reputation if you give mediocre readings amid constant interruptions.

It is also a good idea to try to keep to the allotted time. If you tell someone that your reading takes 45 minutes, don’t give that person 90 minutes. My longest Tarot reading took three hours and 15 minutes, and I’m not convinced that it was any better than the 50-minute reading I give now. In fact, it was probably due to my lack of assertiveness at the time rather than any fascination I experienced while reading his cards. This man asked question after question, and I found it difficult to say ‘enough’. One reader I used to work with would deal with clients who had endless questions by saying, ‘Oh, I’ve lost the connection now darling. I can’t pick up anything else for you today. If you have any more questions you’ll have to come back another day.’ It worked every time.

In time, the cards may be a trigger for your intuition. You may find yourself giving clear descriptions of people, situations and events that could not possibly come from the cards in front of you. Intuition works in different ways. Some people need plenty of time to feel the meaning of each card. One reader I know touches each card as she describes it to her client, even picking up cards in order to gain a deeper understanding of the reading. Some readers sit quietly before each reading in order to put aside their own feelings and concerns. This can help them to be more accurate with their reading. Others switch off their mind and open their mouth, so that whatever comes out is heard.

If you are confused by a layout, bring that confusion into relationship with the client. I sometimes say to a client, ‘I’m confused here. Some cards tell me that you are experiencing great change, while others talk of stagnation. On which level is each of these things happening?’ The client will often know exactly what you are talking about, and you can open a path of communication, both verbal and psychic.

Chapter 22

STARTING OUT AS A READER

Although the faces, backgrounds, nationalities and locations may change, people basically want the same things from a reading, and from life. Love is an important question, along with health, career, children, finance and travel. More difficult questions include: ‘What is my life’s purpose?’, ‘Will there be peace in . . . when I arrive there next year?’ and ‘What does the future hold for our economy?’

For some practical experience you might consider taking a stall at a market, a fundraising event or a fete. This is especially beneficial if you are new to an area. In 1991, soon after I arrived in London, I was offered a stall for £15 at a Saturday fete for the local church roof fund. They allowed me to read palms only, as the Tarot is still unacceptable to the Church of England. I had a little tent outside the church building and I was busy from the moment I sat down until 45 minutes after the last stallholder had left.

Affordable readings lasting only 15 minutes were highly sought after. In one day alone I read for 26 people in succession, but the highlight of the afternoon was a free reading I gave to a nun. She was surprisingly spiritually aware; in fact she shattered my prejudice about a lack of spiritual values in religious orders.

Each person I read for that day received my business card with my local telephone number. The recommendations kept me in food for the months that followed.

My hosts in London told me that the fete organiser had telephoned them the following year to see if I was available for the next annual summer fete. Apparently there were inquiries as to my whereabouts for months afterwards, and a bus-load of nuns were eager to sample my wares at the next fete.

Being able to read the Tarot means that you are able to work anywhere in the world, provided you have the necessary work permits, of course. All you have to do is make yourself understood. It is not too difficult to read for a person whose language you don’t speak if you have someone who can translate. The client’s partner, friend or relative can do this for you. I have read for Greek, Italian, Thai, Somali, French, German, Dutch, Indian and Chinese people who didn’t speak English. The reading might have been better had I spoken the client’s language, but friends sat beside them at the table and translated for me. And while they received the translation I had time to scan the cards for further information.

Reading the Tarot is also a great way to meet people. Announcing that you read the Tarot can be a real conversation starter as it sparks people’s curiosity. At parties, the mere mention of my profession is enough to ensure a flood of outstretched hands for palm readings and questions like, ‘And what do you pick up about me?’ or ‘Did you bring your cards?’ I tired of this after a few years and resolved to tell strangers that I sell insurance. This way if they bother me I can turn the subject to life insurance and ask them if they are sufficiently covered. End of conversation, guaranteed!

A study of the Tarot is a study of life, which is evident in the reading process. Very few professions or processes enable such immediate insight into other people.

The Tarot offers details about problems, challenges, hopes, fears, unresolved issues, spiritual lessons and direction, as well as other people involved with the client, all in a relatively short time.

When you read for others you can touch upon delicate issues, and that can be both painful and a relief to the client. Clients have a right to assume that you will treat anything discussed in the strictest confidence. Discussing your readings with others, especially people known to the client, is a breach of confidence. Don’t do it!

The Tarot is a powerful tool and, as such, requires that you present your findings with compassion and clarity. Different readers vary in approach. Some are direct while others prefer to talk in symbolic terms. In time you will find your own style. Inexperienced or nervous readers, or those simply lacking in confidence, tend to say more than is necessary. It doesn’t hurt to give the client a little time to absorb your words. The formula is talking and breathing. First you talk, and then you breathe. While you pause to breathe the client has time to think about what you’ve said, and you can take the opportunity to scan the cards in front of you for more information.

In a class situation, when I can sit back and observe a student giving a reading, it is amazing how clear a reading can become to me. The fact that I am under no pressure to talk to the client gives me the opportunity to study the cards and ponder their true meanings in relation to one another as I listen to the student discuss their findings. After the student has completed the reading and we have discussed anything that is unclear, I can usually summarise the reading in less than 20 words. Students are often disheartened to hear my summary, feeling that they will not be able to reach this standard. I point out to them that my clarity was the result of the student doing all of the talking, allowing me time to study the cards on the table carefully.

There are great benefits obtained from laying out the cards and explaining to the client that you will reflect for a few minutes in order to be clear. The client wants you to be accurate, so they will gladly sit quietly as you study the cards on the table.

Sometimes a client will adamantly disagree with your prediction. When this occurs I point out that they have free will to change anything I predict. If they follow this with, ‘I can’t see any of this happening. It doesn’t seem accurate at all,’ I point out the obvious.

‘If you could clearly see what was going to happen in the future you wouldn’t be consulting me, so it’s not surprising that some things seem unlikely.’ I usually follow this with, ‘I don’t wish to appear arrogant. However, I’m glad that you’re able to voice your disagreement, for you’ll remember this part of the reading clearly, and when the event happens you’ll remember our conversation. And when you recall this conversation I’ll have a client who is likely to return.’

Avoid promising miracles and don’t allow the client to pressure you too much. When I feel a client is putting me under pressure to give them more and more detail I recall the policy they had at a particular centre where I worked in London. If a reading took more than the allotted time the manager would throw back the curtain, poke his head into the booth where we sat and ask, ‘What do you want for twenty pounds? Your life story?’

One of the most rewarding experiences of using the Tarot is watching it work. That a system can allow two complete strangers to come together for a short time and deepen their understanding of life is truly remarkable. I often receive phone calls from past students soon after they have given their first readings to clients. Their excitement carries down the line as they explain their experience: ‘. . . so I booked a table at the markets today, and after my seventh reading I realised this really works! I could see the confirmation in their faces. Strangers’ faces. Some cried tears of relief that someone knew about what they were going through. It’s unbelievable.’

I smile to myself when I receive these calls, yet I still know how these new readers feel. Some days I, too, sit in wonder of the Tarot; the book of life.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Amen, Angeles 1991, The Tarot Handbook, The Aquarian Press, Hammersmith, London

Chambers, Howard V 1966, An Occult Dictionary for the Millions, Sherbourne Press, Los Angeles

Coelho, Paulo 1988, The Alchemist, HarperCollins, San Francisco

Hamon, Count Louis 1969, Confessions: Memoirs of a Modern Seer, Sagar Publications, New Delhi

Hope, Murray 1985, The Way of Cartouche, Angus & Robertson, Sydney Gibran, Kahlil 1980, The Prophet, Pan Books, London Lofthus, Myrna 1983, A Spiritual Approach to Astrology, CRCS Publications, Sebastopol, California

Pollack, Rachel 1980, Seventy-eight Degrees of Wisdom: Book 1, The Aquarian Press, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire Pollack, Rachel 1983, Seventy-eight Degrees of Wisdom: Book 2, The Aquarian Press, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire

Waite, Arthur 1971, The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, Harper & Row, San Francisco

Wang, Robert 1978, An Introduction to the Golden Dawn Tarot, Samuel Weiser Inc., York Beach, Maine