Tarot Mean and Combine

MAJOR ARCANA INDEX
The major arcana holds the wisdom for our spiritual journey and the key to our lessons as we travel through life, seeking to
understand, learn, and gain knowledge from our experiences, in an attempt to achieve wholeness and harmony of our inner
and outer realities.
All the cards in a spread are important and form part of the story to complete the picture, but if there's a large proportion of
majors it usually points to a significant event.
0 The Fool Correspondences:

Astrology: Associated with Uranus
Element: Air (or Spirit)
Keywords & phrases:
A new and unexpected opportunity leaping in from out the blue. New and unknown; unfamiliar. Surprise!
Fool Tarot Card Meanings:
The Fool Tarot card carries the number zero, filled with unlimited potential of the moment before creation, as such it shows
us that in this moment anything is possible. Sometimes termed as the wild card, it carries an unknown factor and element
of surprise.
When The Fool card appears in a Tarot reading it shows something completely new and unexpected leaping in from out the
blue. Expect the unexpected with this card because The Fool is full of surprises, usually of the positive variety but always
look for the card that follows to see where the new beginning may lead.
A major choice is often needed with the arrival of this card; will you follow where it leads? The Fool will take you into unknown
territory and new adventures, outside of your comfort zone and familiar path. Theres a sense of childlike innocence and
spontaneity, so youll need to stay open-minded to the fresh possibilities and take a leap of faith. The Fool is usually an
exciting card when he lands on your horizon, filled with unknown potential.
Traditionally this card was associated with folly or foolishness, although generally the meaning has evolved over time it may
still be considered in this context if badly aspected (surrounded by negative cards).
If reversed, The Fool may signify being immature or behaving inappropriately, making bad choices through rash decisions,
or avoiding risk and becoming stuck in routine due to apathy.
Associations:
Similar and supporting cards: Watch for Aces, which also signify new beginnings and strengthen the meaning. If all four
Aces appear with The Fool (Life Spread and Anchor) it shows a completely new lifestyle - all new beginnings across the
board.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Death (endings) Hierophant (structure and convention).
The Fool Tarot Card Combinations
When The Fool precedes another card try inserting new and unexpected before the interpretation of the following card as
you start to explore the flavour and atmosphere of possible meanings. The Fool is normally experienced with an element
of surprise.
> The Empress: an unexpected or unplanned pregnancy.
> Ace of Cups (or The Lovers): A new relationship that lands as if from nowhere, (often someone completely new and
previously unknown to you)
> Three of Cups: a surprise party or celebration.
> Seven of Cups: Look for the next following card on the end to complete this as it could go one of two ways it may show
being foolish and unrealistic or it may show something new that leads to many options, the final card would decide.
> Nine of Cups: Your wish will be fulfilled in a completely unexpected way.
> Six of Pentacles: unanticipated gift or act of generosity.
> Six of Wands: An unexpected work promotion.
> The Devil: Look before you leap, this could lead you into problems youd have difficulty extracting yourself from.
> Five of Pentacles: Unexpected bill that leaves a hole in your pocket, dont be nave and too trusting with finance or
investments.
> Ten of Swords: Dont take the risk it leads to a disappointing ending.
> Death: A storm in a teacup, over before its really begun. A new beginning that goes nowhere or wont materialise.
If The Fool and High Priestess appear together in a reading you may have trouble moving forwards with definite information,
as they can take you round in a circle (due to the nature of the card meanings; the unknown factor).
I The Magician Correspondences:

Astrology: Mercury
Element: Air
Keywords & Phrases:
Mastery and skill. Directing will with confidence.
Magician Tarot Card Meanings:
The Magician suspends all the elements in the air by focusing the power and will of his mind. Each element represents the
four suits of the minor arcana and we can see were in the presence of a master as The Magician manifests energy into
matter.
This is the card of transferring thoughts into action, a time to use your initiative and apply concentrated will to manifest your
aims. The four elements he offers before you indicate you already have all the tools you need within your skills and ability,
but now you must have confidence in yourself to make it happen.
When The Magician appears in your Tarot reading its time step up to the plate, you have the potential to succeed but you
must believe in yourself and your ability. Whilst The Fool may hold infinite possibilities The Magician reminds you of what
you can achieve when you take that potential and make it manifest.
The Magician Tarot card informs you of the great power you inwardly possess and encourages you to actively manifest your
intentions. This is a powerful card if you take the energy he offers and work with it. You will need to apply concentrated
thought and focus your will; think creatively, use all the resources at your disposal, and you can achieve your goals. It may
also suggest good communication skills in writing and speaking.
Traditionally The Magician was sometimes associated with a cunning trickster, or a smooth talking conman, and this may be
the case if the card is badly aspected or reversed. As a reversed card it can also indicate misuse of ability, lack of confidence
and will power.
Associations:
Similar and supporting cards: The Chariot also represents applying concentrated focus. The Ace of Wands holds all the
potential of active and creative energy; most Aces would be relevant with The Magician, as he offers the potentiality contained
within each suit, Three of Pentacles (mastery and skill) Two of Pentacles (dexterity).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Devil acts as blocked energy, The Hanging Man suggests life in suspension, or
non-movement, and the Two of Swords indicates being in two minds leading to deadlock.
Magician Tarot Card Combinations:
The Magician > Wheel of Fortune: creating or making your own luck, that will open new doors and opportunities.
> Nine of Cups: Manifesting your wish, this will come about through your own actions.
> Three of Pentacles: Mastery at work through concentrated effort and utilising skills.
Two of Swords > The Magician > Eight of Swords: Indecision creates restriction and the inability to manifest
desires. Creative ideas are blocked (writers block).
> The Devil: Watch for manipulation or abuse of power.
> Five of Swords: Someone is not to be trusted (cunning trickster).
II The High Priestess Correspondences:

Astrology: Moon
Element: Water
Keywords & Phrases:
Secrets becoming known to you that will be to your advantage. Aha! moment. Intuition.
High Priestess Tarot Card Meanings:
The High Priestess holds the secrets and mysteries of the Universe but she doesnt give them up easily. She guards the
veil between the worlds of the known and the unknown and encourages us to look beyond the ordinary and mundane to the
deeper core of our unexplored potential.
The High Priestess Tarot card represents instinct and intuition and she asks you to be still so youll hear her when she
whispers in your ear. This is a card of quiet reflection as we ponder the mysteries of the Universe or those matters as yet
unknown to us. If were patient the truth will be revealed to us at just the right moment, but in her own time, not ours.
We often have to work for the knowledge The High Priestess holds, we earn her respect and trust through developing our
inner processes and in turn she unfolds the path before us. Her domain rests in the deeper side of life, the complex aspects
of higher thought and knowledge found within spiritual or esoteric matters, and she provides the ability to awaken your
unexplored potential. When this card appears it represents a good time to study spiritual matters and for those who work in
this field it can represent your work.
If the High Priestess appears in the final outcome position of your Tarot reading you probably wont get beyond her, shes
letting you know that she will reveal what you need to know when you need to know it. It may be that the situation is still
developing behind the scenes but Ive found that if you try to move past her she takes you round in a circle!
Be patient and alert, listen to your instincts and intuition, The High Priestess will make sure the information reaches you, and
it often comes from something you hear or are told in passing. Its often like a missing piece in the jigsaw and suddenly
something makes sense.
If reversed, it may indicate blocked energy, misuse of spiritual gifts, false teachers or superficial knowledge, not seeing the
bigger picture, or emerging after a period of
Associations:
Similar or opposing cards: The High Priestess has an enigmatic quality so is similar, yet different, to a number of cards,
perhaps because of her mysterious complexity the nature is experienced slightly differently, so shes quite difficult to pin
down, for instance, quiet reflection and contemplation brings wisdom from The Hermit. The Hierophant is also a wise teacher,
yet dispenses guidance and information openly. The unknown factor of The Fool. The Moon, Devil, and Five of Swords, all
have aspects of secrecy, but are experienced differently.
Tarot Card Combinations: In free flow readings (or immediate future to outcome position) the card that follows her will be
illuminating. For instance, if she appears before other secrecy cards she may help shed light on a situation thats brewing
in the background of which youre unaware.
If The Fool and High Priestess appear together in a reading you may have trouble moving forwards with definite information,
as they can take you round in a circle (due to the nature of the card meanings; the unknown factor).
III The Empress Correspondences:

Astrology: Venus
Element: Earth
Keywords & Phrases:
Motherhood. Fertility. Fruitfulness. Nurturing something to fruition. Potential fulfilled.
Empress Tarot Card Meanings:
The Empress Tarot card represents the female archetype, the power of the divine feminine and the source from which life
springs. Motherhood or mothering, in all its guises, is usually found with this card, and it may represent a mother or mother
figure in your life. This is an excellent card with regard to fertility matters and can represent pregnancy or birth.
The Empress in the Gilded Tarot nurses the sign of Venus and stands encircled by the twelve signs of the zodiac to which
she can produce the physical form. (This card is often found set in the lush abundance of Mother Earth.) Aligned to the
planet Venus, love relationships can be strengthened, indicating a strong and supportive relationship, or happy marriage.
The essence of the mother is, for me, the strongest association I find with this card. In work or creative matters, it tends to
show the metaphorical side of mothering; something that requires constant nurturing in order to achieve its full potential,
but with the right combinations it promises abundant rewards and fruitful conclusion.
In relation to self it can show the need for self-care, some pampering and nice-to-me time, nourishing the soul and body,
healthy eating, beautiful surroundings, The Arts, etc. When connected to a male (King) Ive found it can sometimes show a
strong mothering tendency, but can also indicate a mother influence in their life as always, read in context with the nature
of the reading, position, etc., a lone parent, for instance, would require these qualities. Usually, it suggests using the nurturing
concept of the card.
Wherever this card appears indicates a good deal of care and attention in order to bring around the results found in the card
following. In most of the combinations I use The Empress completes the group or pairing, so youll find these listed with the
relevant cards.
If reversed, it may suggest fertility or reproduction problems, difficulty with mother figures, the repressed feminine, or
accomplishments are delayed.
Associations:
Similar and supporting cards: Seven of Pentacles (gathering in your harvest) Ten of Pentacles (home and family).
Strengthens indications when appearing with other marriage cards.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Emperor is the male yang to The Empress female yin, where the opposite forces
of duality complement one another. Four of Pentacles (withholding) The Devil (creates blocks)
The Empress Tarot Card Combinations:
When The Empress precedes another card try adding, nurturing before the interpretation of the following card as you start
to explore possible meanings. When The Empress completes a grouping it tends to indicate the abundance and satisfaction
of a successful harvest (metaphorically speaking).
The Empress >Ace of Wands >Ace of Cups: Pregnancy with these three alongside in any combination, but most
notably Ace of Wands >The Empress for pregnancy, Ace of Cups > The Empress: birth (in either order of combination)
may also be joined by Page of Cups.
> any Page: Mother and child (see Pages for child description)..
> The Emperor: (Venus and Mars) Parents; sometimes a strong influential couple.
> The Lovers: There may be a constant need to mother this relationship; the partner may require continuous attention to
bring it about.
> The Devil: Careful with this one! A number of possible indications (depending upon situation): creative expression is
blocked - or difficulty conceiving - or it might suggest domestic abuse. In the case of the latter, The Devil could just as easily
represent stifling; The Devil isnt usually healthy, one way or another.
>The World: Great success but achieved through consistent nurturing of all aspects leading to the conclusion.
IV The Emperor Correspondences:

Astrology: Aries
Element: Fire
Keywords & Phrases:
Leadership. Ambition. Authority. Stability.
Emperor Tarot Card Meanings:
The Emperor in the Tarot represents those qualities traditionally associated with the male archetype. When this card appears
in your Tarot reading it may signal the need for you to adopt similar qualities.
The Emperor rules his domain with leadership and authority and will rise to the challenge with strong reasoning to do what
needs to be done. It may signal the need to step into his shoes to take control of a situation from a strong position, setting
aside emotion in favour of calm rationale.
There are times in life when we need to assume a strong role to see us through, dealing with facts and logic rather than
allowing emotions to get the upper hand. The Emperor is not the hearts and flowers type of guy, think more along the lines
of the mythic warrior king, leading his people from the front with conviction; a strong protector striving to bring order and
stability. This card is associated with Aries, which is ruled by Mars.
The Emperor is an excellent card for matters connected to work and business and can bring emotional and financial
stability. In relationship readings it may not be the time for wearing your heart on your sleeve but dealing with things in a
non-emotional way.
It may represent a powerful male influence, or the father or father figure. I generally prefer to view the Court cards as people,
rather than the majors, but sometimes it may represent a man of powerful force, usually an individual rather than organisation,
but one considered at the top of the tree; the ruler, an alpha male.
If reversed, or badly aspected, it may signify a bully or something of a tyrant, conversely it may also point to a sense of lost
masculinity, loss of power, lack of strength, failed leadership, inability to realize goals, instability, weak character, or problems
with father or authority figures.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Justice (logic and reason) Hierophant (conformity and structure) Ace of Swords (force of
strength and power)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Emperor is the male yang to The Empress female yin, where the opposite forces
of duality complement one another.
The Emperor Tarot Card Combinations:
> Hierophant > Justice: These three together (in any combination) indicate a situation dealing with higher authorities,
government, law of the land, etc.
> The Empress: (Mars and Venus) Parents; sometimes a strong influential couple.
> Six of Pentacles > Two of Wands: Angel investor, or possible silent partner (may also be shown by a King of Queen
instead of Emperor)
Six of Wands > Emperor: promotion to a senior position.
Seven of Wands > The Emperor: may suggest coming up against authority, but could also strengthen your position
(depending upon context) whereas, The Emperor > Seven of Wands: more aligned to asserting your position and adds
clout.
V The Hierophant Correspondences:

Astrology: Associated with Taurus
Element: Earth
Keywords & phrases:
Tradition and convention, conformity, conservative, institutions.
Hierophant Tarot Card Meanings:
Traditionally this card was known as The Pope (Le Pape.) The English Oxford dictionary defines hierophant as, A person,
especially a priest, who interprets sacred mysteries or esoteric principles, which broadens the brushstroke slightly. (Im
always asked about the name.) Whichever title, the image is usually consistent to the appearance of a religious leader.
The Hierophant Tarot card indicates following a conventional path and the traditional values of our culture or society. It can
also represent the traditional family unit, or marriage, particularly when appearing with other marriage cards.
This is a card of conforming to certain standards and an accepted set of structures, principles, and expectations; its usually
conservative in nature. The Establishment, large institutions or organisations that have set systems or ways of doing things
that are not easily open to change are often indicated by this card: the church, educational establishments, government,
charities, hospitals, even large corporations.
The Hierophant may also suggest a wise teacher or mentor, someone we hold in high regard that can provide guidance and
knowledge. With the Hierophant we follow the path and work within the rules, tow the line, and do what is expected from us
within guiding morals and principles.
If reversed or badly aspected it may show feeling restricted by structure or a dogmatic approach, lacking moral fibre or
principles, unorthodox behaviour or rejecting conformity, losing faith, or corrupt officials.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The wisdom of The Hermit, sometimes the structure of The Emperor. Marriage and family
cards would strengthen that association.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Fool (free spirit and adventurous) The Hanging Man (thinking outside the box,
unconventional) The Devil (excess, not following moral codes).
Hierophant Tarot Card Combinations:
When appearing together with other marriage cards it would strengthen the association, such as: Ten of Cups, The Lovers,
Two of Cups, Four of Wands, Three of Cups, The Empress. The Ten of Pentacles, Ace of Pentacles (sometimes Justice),
may also be included as supportive for what they represent, (but not in isolation). There are quite a lot of different
combinations that can indicate marriage but the ordering or flow of the cards is usually the important factor, when reading in
a simple line from left to right.
Four of Wands > The Hierophant > Three of Cups: Church wedding, or religious ceremony of marriage, (see above for
other cards supporting marriage).
Eight of Pentacles > The Hermit > The Hierophant: Place of study, knowledge and wisdom, University or education
establishment.
> Temperance > Four of Swords: May indicate hospital.
> Ten of Pentacles: Traditional home and family unit, in reverse order may feel duty bound to do the right thing for family
obligations.
> King of Queen of Pentacles >: (before or after) bank manager or official
> King or Queen of Swords >: (before or after) Government official
> Emperor > Justice: These three together (in any combination) indicate a situation dealing with higher authorities,
VI The Lovers Correspondences:

Astrology: Gemini
Element: Air
Keywords & phrases:
A love relationship, interest or attraction.
Lovers Tarot Card Meanings:
Traditionally The Lovers was the triumph card of love but the depiction has appeared in various guises and with differing
interpretations, so other meanings may apply (depending upon the deck youre using) involving a choice between two paths
(temptation and virtue) or sometimes a love choice between two people.
The Lovers in the Gilded only contains two people and appears as idealised love. My view is, perhaps, slightly different in
the way I apply it because for me it always relates to a love relationship in the romantic sense. For instance, some may
apply The Lovers to work as a love of work, whereas I would view it as a love connection in the work place in some way, or
a love relationship that comes in through work depending upon surrounding cards. Since this works accurately for me I
tend not to change it, although you may interpret it differently depending upon your inclination, how the image in your deck
speaks to you, and your personal reading experiences with the card.
For a single person, it can suggest an attraction, a love interest, or a potential relationship, but look for other cards to suggest
a deeper commitment. When reading for someone already attached it usually indicates choices the couple need to make
together, as their lives are entwined and they dont tend to operate independently, since what affects one affects them both.
If reversed or badly aspected it may suggest various types of relationship problems or frustrations, including thwarted love
or unreciprocated feelings, infidelity, lack of harmony.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Relationship cards are relevant, also when in combination with marriage/commitment cards
(see full explanation under The Hierophant) Two of Cups (close loving union).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Hermit usually signifies a sense of aloneness. For some the Nine of Pentacles also
indicates this, although it can represent financial independence or an independent person, rather than being alone.
The Lovers Tarot Card Combinations:
For a love triangle Id normally look for secrecy cards in close proximity, plus the addition of a King or Queen Court card
(outside the couple in question) may also point to third party involvement, although it can sometimes be outside interference,
not always an actual affair etc. The Lovers is an easy card to apply to combinations; try using love relationship in application
to cards before or after, for instance: Ace of Cups to Lovers would show the start of a new relationship, for a married couple
it may show a new beginning that brings happiness to the relationship. As you would expect, lots of Cups combinations
> Two of Cups: relationship developing into a deeper bond.
> Hierophant > Three of Cups: Marriage/wedding, also
> Ten of Cups: potential for commitment, marriage etc. Popular marriage combinations include Lovers with: Ace of Cups
and Ten of Pentacles or with Ace of Pentacles and Ten of Cups.
> Four of Cups: stale relationship, lack of interest or becoming fed-up with circumstances.
> Five of Cups: tears and disappointment but fives can be temporary so check card following.
> Seven of Cups: may signify more than one option but check surrounding cards too as it could suggest daydreaming or
being unrealistic about a relationship.
> Two of Pentacles: may be balancing more than one relationship
> Three of Swords: can show stormy emotions, upsets and quarrels but also distance relationships (people separated by
distance, particularly if the Three precedes The Lovers). Similar to the Five of Cups, its a small card so check the card
following to clarify where its going.
> Four of Swords: a sense of withdrawal or pulling back from the relationship, The Hermit may also indicate needing time
to think or pull back.
> Ten of Pentacles: setting up home and moving in together.
> Judgement: relationship revived or resurrected. (Refer to The Lover Returns article.)
> The Moon: uncertainty over a relationship, fluctuating emotions or not sure where you stand.
> The Devil: may show a destructive or unhealthy relationship but can also indicate an obsession, or fling.
*When in full combination with The Moon, The Devil, and Five of Swords, something is definitely amiss!
> Death: (or Ten of Swords) relationship ending.
VII The Chariot Correspondences:

Astrology: Cancer
Element: Water
Keywords & phrases:
Triumph over obstacles, strong will with self-discipline. Journey.
Chariot Tarot Card Meanings:
The Chariot is a success card but often indicates that it will be achieved through exerting a strong will, self-discipline, and
focus. Triumph over obstacles, tends to indicate there may be a few en-route so it could require some effort.
If you consider the control and driving force needed to harness the energy of two animals to steer the chariot forward, it
provides an indication of whats required; if theyre pulling in different directions then the chariot wont go anywhere. The
two animals (usually shown as sphinxes or horses) are black and white, demonstrating the need to harmonise opposing
forces, echoing a theme of duality and polarity often found within the symbolism of Tarot.
When The Chariot card appears in your reading it may show that you need to stay focused and not allow your energy to
become scattered in different directions in order to achieve your aims. It is a card of drive, exerting a strong will but harnessed
with self-discipline so it can be controlled.
Travel is often associated with this card and this is strengthened if it appears with other journey cards (as outlined below),
on a more mundane or daily level it may be connected to a vehicle, travel by land, car or rail.
If reversed or badly aspected, it may bring defeat or failure of plans, spreading yourself too thin and losing focus on the task
at hand, standing still, disruption to travel arrangements or vehicle problems.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ace of Swords (triumph over adversity) and any of the success cards would be relevant (The
World, etc) The Magician (focused thought), The Emperor (taking control)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Any cards indicating defeat or failure. Hanging Man and Two of Swords (non-movement).
Four of Cups (apathy). Strength is similar, but the element of control is expressed differently, these two often appear together
to reinforce the message but Strength indicates a gentler approach. (Similar yet different, in the same way we find with The
Emperor and Empress.)
The Chariot Tarot Card Combinations:
Other cards that also indicate travel (Six of Swords, Eight of Wands, Knight of Wands) would reinforce this meaning
through association.
Nine of Wands > The Chariot: powering through, strong determination will pay off.
> The Chariot > Ace of Swords: inner and outer resolve in order to overcome setbacks, an unstoppable force.
> Ace of Pentacles: travel or vehicle documents.
> Justice: may indicate a parking ticket or traffic offence.
Eight of Pentacles > The Chariot: learning to drive (followed by Six of Wands, passing driving test)
VIII Strength Correspondences:

Astrology: Leo
Element: Fire
Keywords & phrases:
Inner strength, gentleness with quiet determination. Courage and endurance.
Strength Tarot Card Meanings:
Depending upon which Tarot deck youre using, for some people card VIII is Justice. I started with Tarot de Marseilles style
deck so card XI was La Force, sometimes also known as Fortitude, Strength, or Lust in the Thoth deck. The Order of the
Golden Dawn made the switch in order to accommodate the astrological sequence they adopted. Arthur Edward Waite was
a member and, since most decks are styled after the Rider-Waite tradition, Strength is usually found as the card numbered
VIII. (I receive quite a few emails asking about this so hope it provides at least a very brief explanation).
Although the card depicts a lion, which many associate with courage, the animal walks subdued at the womans side without
aggressive action on her part. Although the card may be called Strength it refers to inner strength, which could be argued
as a more powerful and effective quality than brute force. For some, it demonstrates the ability to conquer the nature of the
inner beast.
When the Strength card appears in your Tarot reading it suggests the need to call upon your inner courage, to have grace
under pressure with the strength to endure. Its a time of quiet determination, to keep your head down and keep going - I
often think, Keep calm and carry on, with this card, as its one of true grit!
The ability to deal with matters in a calm and gentle manner, using diplomacy, tact and persuasion, but with a resolute will,
fits well with the tag of fortitude. Strength would be similar to the iron fist in a velvet glove, more powerful than it appears,
proving that its not what you do but more how you go about it that secures the desired result. Ive found that people normally
achieve success with this card, if they heed the message of Strength and go about things in the right way.
For a woman in connection to relationship questions, this card can also indicate a certain magnetic quality and charm that
makes her attractive to the opposite sex.
If reversed or badly aspected it can show weakened strength or resolve, not claiming your inner power, being hesitant and
backing off, losing heart.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: In the Life Spread, the Nine of Wands is often found nearby to reinforce the message of
pulling on inner reserves. Temperance (patience and balance).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Chariot is similar but expressed more outwardly so slightly different, (Similar yet
different, in the same way we find with The Empress and The Emperor).
Strength Tarot Card Combinations:
Five of Cups > Strength: endurance after a difficult situation, picking yourself back up regardless and soldiering on.
Nine of Wands > Strength > Knight of Pentacles: in for the long haul, perseverance and courage will finally pay off but
could take time.
> Eight of Cups: gathering resolve to leave a situation.
> The Chariot > Ace of Swords: inner and outer resolve in order to overcome setbacks, an unstoppable force.
Seven of Swords > Strength: using tact and diplomacy to accomplish aims, charming the birds out the trees
IX The Hermit Correspondences:

Astrology: Virgo
Element: Earth
Keywords & phrases:
Deep thought and contemplation. Wisdom.
Hermit Tarot Card Meanings: The Hermit walks a solitary path, yet finds wisdom and solace within the silence of
private thought. In the Visconti Tarot from the 15th century, this card resembled Father Time, with the wise old man carrying
an hourglass to signify maturity and wisdom gained through time. Andy Boroveshengra (http://boroveshengra.com)
suggests this card may have been depicted as Chronos (Father Time) during the Renaissance period, whilst Rachel Pollack
(http://www.rachelpollack.com/bio) notes the significance of this interpretation when you consider the placement coming
before the Wheel of Fortune turns. Over time (no pun intended) the Old Man became the sage or hermit, with the hourglass
replaced by the lantern we recognise today.
When The Hermit appears in your Tarot reading it can suggest withdrawal for deep thought and contemplation, a time of
quiet introspection to reflect and meditate in order to find the answer that lies within you. The Hermit holds his lantern aloft
to illuminate the path ahead; he shows us that we can find our way to inner truth if we follow his example with maturity and
wisdom. It can suggest being prudent, taking time, and keeping your own counsel.
Studying and gathering knowledge are also well aspected with this card. For some, it represents a teacher and guide, or the
slow moving element of age and time.
As a solitary figure, in relationship readings it may indicate alone time or pulling back to think things through; The Hermit
withdraws from the throng and travels alone.
If reversed or badly aspected, lack of maturity, acting hastily, (although some view it as over caution), problems with an older
person.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Four of Swords (withdrawal) The High Priestess (deeper knowledge) The Hierophant (teacher
or guide) Four of Pentacles (caution)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Fool (carefree spirit of adventure) Two of Wands (partnerships and working with
others) Two of Cups (close union) Three of Cups, or any cards suggesting group activity.
The Hermit Tarot Card Combinations:
The slow moving element suggested in this card can be emphasised or reinforced when others are present, such as, the
Knight of Pentacles, Strength, etc.
> The High Priestess: The search for deeper meaning and mysteries of life.
> The Empress or Emperor: in a literal sense can be grandparents, (particularly if Ten of Pentacles present) or taking
advice from an older relative, similarly
> Kings or Queens: Alongside, may indicate an older person.
> Hierophant: Strengthens the association of a wise teacher. Together (in any combination) with Eight of Pentacles can
indicate learning and studying; gathering wisdom in an educational setting.
> The World: Success achieved slowly, over time.
> Four of Swords: Withdrawal, time out, a retreat.
Four of Pentacles > The Hermit: being prudent with finances, careful and wise saver.
Wheel of Fortune Correspondences:

Astrology: Jupiter
Element: Fire
Keywords & phrases:
Fate and destiny. Change of luck and fortune.
Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card Meanings:
The Wheel of Fortune brings change and usually of a positive nature unless surrounded or immediately followed by less
favourable cards. The wheel suggests the cyclical nature and inevitability of change, whats down must at some point go
back up, and vice-versa.
Circumstances rarely stay the same but the Wheel introduces the element of luck, indicating that its a matter of chance,
where fate and destiny step into play. When the wheel turns everything can turn around in the blink of an eye. The hand of
fate turns the wheel of life and Lady Luck smiles upon us.
In earlier Tarot de Marseille style decks La Roue de Fortune is depicted with figures rising and falling upon the wheel, whilst
the image in the Swiss IJJ deck shows the goddess Fortuna blindly turning the wheel of their fate.
When the Wheel of Fortune appears in your reading it represents a new cycle commencing when luck is riding on your side
and gains can be made, so its important to make the most of opportunities as you never know when the wheel will turn
again.
If reversed or ill-dignified, the Wheel of Fortune may suggest your luck has run out and things are not working in your favour.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Together with multiple sevens in the reading indicates a cycle change. Similar
characteristics, although different meanings, are found with Death and The Tower as they all bring an element of change of
an external nature (usually outside of our control).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Hanging Man and Two of Swords (no movement) Four of Pentacles (risk-averse,
caution)
Wheel of Fortune Tarot Card Combinations:
The order of the cards would be important when reading in a simple line, for instance The Tower to Wheel of Fortune could
show a turnaround in circumstances such as a blessing in disguise or bounce back from something initially perceived as a
catastrophe. However, luck wouldnt be running on your side if this order were switched (Wheel to The Tower). With marriage
cards it may show a fortunate match, or the changing fortunes and circumstances in the lives of those involved due to the
pairing.
Death > Wheel of Fortune > Fool: complete and absolute change from one path to another.
> The Devil: possible gambling addiction
> Five of Pentacles: risky venture that results in loss, whereas followed by a positive Pentacle card would show gains (such
as Nine of Pentacles etc).
> The Sun > The World: These three together (in any combination) bring fortune and success of a larger degree than the
clients usual experience. If The Star is also included it may put you in the spotlight (fame of some description).
Four of Cups > Wheel of Fortune > Four of Pentacles: may warn of a missed opportunity and being careful not to dismiss
something out of hand.
Ace of Pentacles > Wheel of Fortune > Six of Pentacles: Lucky ticket. A new venture that brings financial gain.
XI Justice Correspondences:
Astrology: Libra
Element: Air
Keywords & phrases:
Balanced thought, the law/legal matters.
Justice Tarot Card Meanings:
In the Tarot de Marseille Justice is numbered eight, and Strength eleven, as also explained previously in Strength, with
reference to the Order of the Golden Dawn and A E Waite making the switch.
The image usually depicts a figure balancing the scales of justice, in the Gilded Tarot she is blindfolded to emphasise
impartiality. Justice weighs the scales with impartiality to find the balance in favour of a ruling that is right and fair to all, she
does not take sides but simply balances the facts and evidence to come to the truth. (Some readers associate this card with
karma, although personally I relate that to the Judgement card.)
The Justice Tarot card can be literal in representing the law and legal matters around you, so any form of legal documents
and contracts would also be relevant. When this card appears in your reading it may suggest that you need to take a clear
and logical view to a matter, to be impartial but fair and honest in your dealings.
If reversed or ill-dignified, it may suggest imbalance, unfair dealings, false accusations, or complications with a legal
matter.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Ace of Pentacles (contracts with material connection) The Emperor (rational and
practical) The Hermit (deep thought and contemplation) Temperance (balanced emotions) King or Queen of Swords (lawyers,
police, men/women with legal connections) Two of Pentacles (maintaining balance)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Wands (imbalance) Two of Swords (indecision, two minds) Five of Swords
(dishonest)
Justice Tarot Card Combinations:
Due to the legal implications of Justice there are lots of possible combinations, however, always check the defined meanings
you normally use and follow progressions carefully to avoid misinterpretation or jumping to conclusions. I tend to look for a
number of reinforcing cards when less favourable indications are present; these are more evident when using the Life Spread
and Anchor.
In legal matters you would hope to find a favourable card immediately following Justice to show a good outcome and happy
resolution (The World, The Sun, Three of Cups, Six of Wands, etc).
> The Devil: may indicate corruption, if surrounded (either side) or if followed by Eight of Swords and The Devil can
sometimes indicate prison, or imprisoned.
> Hierophant > Emperor: These three together (in any combination) indicate a situation dealing with higher authorities,
> Judgement: Sometimes literal.
> Ace of Pentacles > Ten of Pentacles: Will or inheritance, or property purchase. If the Knight of Wands included would
indicate property transaction and home move (purchase, lease, etc)
> Ten of Wands: Weighed down by official rules and regulations, red tape.
Eight of Pentacles > Justice: New employment contract
> Eight of Wands > The Chariot > Justice: on a mundane level, possible speeding ticket, without the Eight it may signify
legal documentation connected to a vehicle.
Ten of Pentacles > Justice >Three of Swords: could indicate a legal dispute with family.
Three of Swords > Five of Cups > Ten of Swords > Justice: various combinations for divorce proceedings but exercise
care and read the progression as the order is important.
Justice > Ace of Pentacles > Five of Pentacles: liquidation, filing for bankruptcy, or losing a legal case that may prove
costly.
Supports all and any marriage cards (marriage certificate).
XII The Hanging Man Correspondences:

Astrology: Neptune
Element: Water
Keywords & phrases:
Suspension, life in limbo. Alternative view. Self-sacrifice.
Hanged Man Tarot Card Meanings:
Perhaps it is the title, but people often feel uncomfortable and expect the worst when confronted by this card but, generally,
I find it creates delays, a sense of being in limbo, which can be frustrating if youre trying to forge ahead. Although, this is
the point of The Hanging Man, so he seems something of a conundrum, yet within itself, the card also offers a message of
advice on how to proceed.
The Hanging Mans position is voluntary and provides a unique perspective, an alternative view that sees the world through
a different lens, so when this card appears it may be time to look at things from a different angle, engage lateral thinking,
and think outside the box.
This may sound easier said than done, for however open-minded we like to think ourselves to be, when we set off down a
track we often become blinkered or blinded by our view of it, to really see it from another perspective may require stepping
into others shoes and viewing it from different angles. From this new viewpoint a resolution may be found but could also
require a certain amount of self-sacrifice, if only to relinquish our ideal. A period of reassessment may be needed in order
to find a new way forward and release those events currently suspended.
The image of the Hanging Man is often likened to the story of the Norse God, Odin, who voluntarily hung upside down from
the world tree for nine days and nights without sustenance, sacrificing himself to receive enlightenment; the ritual death and
rebirth a shaman undertakes, and in return perceived the mystery of the runes.
Some readers relate this card to the sign of a traitor, as in Renaissance Italy these were punished in a pose similar to an
inverted crucifixion known as pittura infamante, (meaning, defaming portrait).
If reversed or badly aspected, being selfish or unwilling to sacrifice, narrow minded or a locked perspective (blinkered)
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Hanging Man is often found together with the Two of Swords (stalemate, non-movement)
Page of Swords (delay) when emphasising this context. The Hermit (wisdom and contemplation, but also a slow moving
card in terms of time) The Fool (also unconventional and free thinking).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Hierophant (conventional) Eight of Wands, Knight of Swords (both bring speed into
play)
Hanging Man Tarot Card Combinations: I mainly tend to find this card creates delays and usually prolongs the wait for an
outcome to any matter under question. Therefore, as an outcome card it would imply no movement without
reassessment. In a string, or simple line, the card following would be most important to show how the situation is released,
although normally it can still delay events quite significantly.
XIII Death Correspondences:

Astrology: Scorpio
Element: Water
Keywords & phrases:
An ending that brings major change.
Death Tarot Card Meanings
Death is probably one of the most familiar images of the Tarot, not least perhaps, due to the media; if Tarot cards appear in
the script you can almost guarantee the Death card will be shown and suitably dramatised!
Generally, the Death card signifies something coming to an end and is rarely seen or used as a predictive card for physical
death by most responsible readers. The depiction and title often provokes a strong response, so its important to handle this
card sensitively.
In view of interpretation, its probably the most decisive card we can easily relate to, as Death suggests finality, indicating a
definite ending to something. Whereas the Ten of Swords may show an ending that brings some feelings of disappointment,
the Death card usually signifies an ending thats accompanied by a major change in life.
Our biggest challenge with this card is that most of us tend to resist change; we like to feel a sense of continuity and find
security in the familiar, yet in the timeline of our lives we will transition through a number of major changes and some are
welcome so its not always bad news. Ending one career to start another, the end of a single life for someone getting
married, etc. Clients going through a difficult time are often relieved if this card comes up as it means they can finally close
the door on something and move on at last! Death is like drawing a line in the sand as we transition from one way of life to
another.
If reversed it doesnt tend to indicate an opposite meaning but instead can represent a prolonged ending, dragging something
out, or stagnation.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ten of Swords (ending) Wheel of Fortune (change) and also multiple sevens indicate a cycle
change.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Aces and The Fool, indicate new beginnings.
Death Tarot Card Combinations:
Due to the meaning this is one of the easiest cards to read in combinations, so there are too many to list here. When reading
a simple line, or string of cards in a progression, the card preceding Death would show what is coming to an end. Look to
the following cards to see where it leads, in particular, watch for the new beginnings the Aces would bring.
> Wheel of Fortune > Fool: complete change from one path to another and usually fortunate.
> Ten of Pentacles: inheritance, particularly if Six of Pentacles also included.
XIV Temperance Correspondences:

Astrology: Sagittarius
Element: Fire
Keywords & phrases:
Patience, harmony, emotional balance, healing and renewal.
Temperance Tarot Card Meanings:
The Temperance angel carefully blends the contents of two opposite elements, fire and water, and integrates energy from
opposing forces. In the dictionary, temperance means moderation and this card often encourages a middle ground, the
ability to find compromise and balance.
Although the esoteric correspondences place this card under the element of fire, I tend to find this is one of the slower moving
cards, particularly in relation to the meaning of a need for patience. If youre in a hurry for something to happen and
Temperance comes up in your reading then you may have to be patient because it will take time. Temperance is calm and
unhurried, gentle and patient, showing moderation in all things.
If there have been difficulties in relationships then Temperance may indicate healing and renewal, the need for cooperation,
diplomacy, and compromise in order to achieve and integrate balance. It often shows for couples that share a very close
and harmonious bond too, similar to the Two of Cups, so its not unusual to find these two cards in a spread together.
If reversed we usually find a lack of harmony and balance, people in opposition or not cooperating together if not openly
hostile, intolerance and impatience.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Star (healing) Judgement (renewal) Justice (is a balanced mind as Temperance is
balanced emotions) Two of Pentacles (maintaining balance) Two of Cups (harmonious bond) Six of Swords (calm). Cards
that represent a slow moving timeframe, such as The Hermit, etc.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Devil (excess) The Tower (sudden change, shocks and surprises) Five of Wands
(competition) Knight of Swords (very fast moving pace)
Temperance Tarot Card Combinations:

Six of Cups > Temperance > Judgement: Renewal and reconciliation.
> Hierophant > Four of Swords: may indicate hospital.
> The Star > Four of Swords: healing and convalescence.
> The Devil: falling off the wagon, vice versa may show abstaining from an addiction.
Three of Swords > Temperance: healing of rifts and bad feelings but will require patience and compromise on both sides.
XV The Devil Correspondences:

Astrology: Capricorn
Element: Earth
Keywords and phrases: Addiction, obsession, manipulation, secrecy, self-enslavement.
Devil Tarot Card Meanings:
All cards need to be considered in context but The Devil comes in many guises although, generally speaking, it often points
to an unhealthy situation on some level as it tends to bring out the shadow side.
In its simplest terms, The Devil can appear when someone is feeling completely bogged down by a situation to the point
where they feel helpless to change it.
The Devil can point to hedonistic tendencies, the enjoyment of food, drink, sex, material pleasures, but it often suggests
over-indulgence or excessive behaviour, such as addictions. If youre familiar with The Anchor Spread I use (alongside the
Life Spread) if The Devil appears in the relationship area it usually suggests a problem, such as: partner with an addiction,
abusive or manipulative behaviour, someone sneaking around, or an obsession. However, always look for back-up
information in The Life Spread to throw more light and reinforce the context. If it appears in the wishes and desires position
of The Anchor it usually means the person has secret plans and theyre keeping their cards close to their chest.
The Devil seems to soak up or even taint those cards closest to it, so its easier to interpret in groups. If you wonder where
the problem lies look for what it follows, the card that precedes it will show the nature of the problem, but handle what you
find with care and sensitivity as the situation is often masked.
Sometimes The Devil will be present when someones developing an idea that needs to remain under wraps or hidden from
public view for the time being, and this isnt unusual in career, the corporate or entertainment world, so the aspect of secrecy
isnt always sneaky or sinister.
If reversed, The Devil may bring about release from an oppressive situation, facing the shadow self, accepting and moving
beyond it through spiritual understanding.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ten of Wands (feeling weighed down) Nine of Swords (stress and anxiety) Eight of Swords
(feeling trapped and restricted) all the secrecy cards (Moon, Five of Swords, High Priestess)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Temperance (moderation) The Star (hope and optimism)
The Devil Tarot Card Combinations:
Watch for the cards that surround The Devil, the clearest indication of what the problem concerns usually comes from the
card that precedes it. In simple lines or small groups, watch for Five of Swords and The Devil, or The Devil and The Moon,
surrounding and either side of another card as its usually a sign of deception and dishonesty the central card would
indicate the area of concern. There are too many combinations to list here but those below provide a small flavour of
possibilities...
> Temperance: may show abstaining from an addiction, vice versa falling off the wagon.
> Eight of Swords: Confinement, sometimes prison, particularly if Hierophant (The Establishment) Justice (legal system)
The Emperor (authority) or King of Swords, (government officials, men in uniform) are also included.
Six of Cups > The Devil: may show an obsession with an old love.
The Hierophant > The Devil: Corrupt organisation (particularly if Five of Swords included) Also
The Devil > Four of Pentacles > Five of Swords: Possible embezzlement, with other appropriate Pentacle card central
may simply show theft (mainly Five of Pentacles central).
Ace of Pentacles > The Devil: Forgery, forged document.
Five of Pentacles > The Devil: Excessive debt, overspending.
The Magician > The Devil: manipulation, a trickster or con artist.
Nine of Cups > The Devil: Perhaps too much of a good thing! (Be careful what you wish for.)
The Tower > The Devil: possible violence or abuse
The Moon > The Lovers > The Devil: clandestine relationship (also Five of Swords instead, or as well as, The Moon)
The Moon > The Devil: hallucinations, being under the influence of an addictive substance.
> Eight of Pentacles (or Ace of Wands): Secret plans being made to start a new job or career.
If The Devil is followed by: The Star, The Sun, Four of Swords, or Six of Swords: recovery from a difficult situation, most
of the positive cards following would show release.
XVI The Tower Correspondences:

Astrology: Mars
Element: Fire
Keywords and phrases:
Shocks and surprises, shakes things up, unexpected upheaval.
Tower Tarot Card Meanings:
Most people are familiar with the image of The Tower and most of us prefer not to see it in our readings. Just as we never
know exactly where lightning is going to strike, the upheaval this card can bring is usually sudden and unexpected. The
Tower tends to bring a bit of a shake-up and, just as the man plunges headlong from the building, it tends to release us from
something we would otherwise cling to, perhaps through a false sense of security or philosophy. The Tower breaks through
false illusions, leaving no option but to let go and move forward.
The Tower heralds sudden and unexpected change, whether through incident or news that reaches you. As with all the
cards though, there are varying degrees in how it may be experienced, which may be easier to see with larger spreads, for
instance, with the Life Spread and Anchor you can see the extent of the disruption, or whether it appears as an isolated
event, therefore not affecting other areas of life. Thats not to say it will not be felt at all, but the impact may be more limited
or confined in how it affects someone. Often, people see The Tower and consider it to represent complete ruin or destruction
to an entire way of life, but its usually one event with reverberating shockwaves that tends to rock the boat.
The card is associated with Mars, planet of war, violence, accidents or destruction. I tend to think of this card similar to the
effects felt from an eclipse, as it often releases us from something wed otherwise hang onto, regardless of whether or not
its good for us. A house built on unsound foundations will sooner or later collapse but then it can be rebuilt on solid ground.
At the very least, The Tower tends to clear out the clutter but it may shake your core beliefs about something in the process.
When ill-dignified or for those who read reversals, the effects of The Tower are usually to a lesser degree, though still not
necessarily pleasant. Some readers view it as a personal revelation.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: For me, The Tower is in a class of its own on this one! However, Death and the Ten of Swords
add the sort of tension we usually wish to avoid in a reading.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Sun takes things from extreme to the other.
The Star and Temperance (calm and healing)
Tower Tarot Card Combinations: When reading in simple lines (or Life Spread) The Tower is more damaging when it
comes at the end, since whatever sits before it will come crashing down, or can add impetus to an already difficult
situation. The best scenario is to see a very positive card following, indicating a quick recovery or complete turnaround of
events, such as: The Tower to The Sun, where something that initially appears to be a disaster turns out surprisingly well
and for the best.
XVII The Star Correspondences:

Astrology: Aquarius
Element: Air
Hope for the future, optimism, healing.
Star Tarot Card Meanings:
The Star brightens a darkened sky, with the promise of a better tomorrow and brighter times waiting on the horizon; its the
perfect card to follow The Tower, offering hope and optimism for the future.
If times have been tough then The Star tells you to have faith, to believe in yourself and the times that lie ahead. This card
can bring healing to a situation, whether illness, or if there have been rifts with another. Depending upon placement, it usually
indicates better times further down the road, improving circumstances rather than immediate.
If youve experienced hurt in love or relationships then The Star encourages you to have confidence in the future, it may be
time to leave the past behind and to have faith that something better is destined. The gentle and uplifting atmosphere this
card generates is extremely good when it falls alongside positive relationship cards, or a new relationship, as its blessed
with shared harmony and portends to a good future.
For those who work in the public arena the message of this card may be literal, or lead you to provide inspiration to others.
Plans and goals hold the promise of bright prospects under the light of The Star.
If reversed or badly aspected, it can suggest feeling discouraged, lacking hope, unfulfilled desires or expectations, false
hopes.
Associations:
Similar and reinforcing cards: Temperance (healing and renewal) Six of Swords (calm after storm)
Opposite or opposing cards: The Devil (bogged down), The Tower (chaos), Nine of Swords (worry and anxiety)
The Star Tarot Card Combinations:
Following and alongside a new relationship or marriage cards, adds blessings and prospects for a bright future, (i.e., Ace,
Two, Three, Ten of Cups, etc).
The Star > Wheel of Fortune > The Sun > The World: In any combination but as a straight group, can indicate a high level
of success and recognition in some way (usually an event outside normal circumstances or usual experience)
> Six of Wands: Public recognition (also when order vice versa).
> Four of Swords: healing and convalescence.
The Star > Temperance: healing and renewal (also of relationship, depending upon the root card leading to these
two; Three of Swords/Five of Cups may show mending a broken heart).
XVIII The Moon Correspondences:

Astrology: Pisces
Element: Water
Uncertainty and fluctuating emotions, secrecy, illusion.
Moon Tarot Card Meanings:
In folklore and tradition, the moon can be associated with moon madness, and its a good way to remember the card, for
nothing may be as it really seems at this time. The full moon holds us spellbound in its presence, momentarily captured in
its hypnotic light.
When The Moon appears in a Tarot reading it can indicate uncertainty, feeling as though youre standing on shifting sands,
and emotions fluctuating back and forth. By the light of the moon nothing may appear as it really is, creating illusionary
situations, so its best not to jump to conclusions. Events have a habit of culminating and coming to the surface around the
time of a full moon, just as the crayfish in the image is half submerged in the water pool of the subconscious, it often shows
situations that are still developing, so not all the facts may be available at this time but they will emerge in due course.
There can also be a hint of secrecy or deception, particularly if accompanied by other cards that reinforce the message to
strengthen that association. Heightened dreams, intuition, and psychic ability, can be highlighted by this card, although more
frequently it muddies the waters, suggesting clouded thinking and not seeing matters clearly; taken to extreme it can create
a sense of paranoia. The best advice with The Moon is to be watchful and wait until all the facts are available before making
important decisions.
The Moon often makes an appearance for those seeking a reading when they feel completely confused over a situation, to
the point where they dont feel they can think straight about it anymore. Theyve often looked at the situation from every
angle and feel theyre sinking in uncertainty; this is most apparent when it appears in the base position of The Anchor, which
reveals the current atmosphere and circumstances surrounding the client at the time of the reading.
If reversed or badly aspected, usually similar but with a lesser effect than the upright meaning.
Associations:
Similar and reinforcing cards: Seven of Cups (can cloud realistic thinking) Two of Swords (indecision, in two minds) Nine
of Swords (anxiety). Watch for The Devil, Five of Swords, and High Priestess to reinforce aspects of secrecy or possible
deceptions.
Opposite or opposing cards: The Emperor (stability, logic and rationale) Justice (balanced mind)
The Moon Tarot Card Combinations:
The Moon isnt usually a positive companion, as it tends to muddy the waters and create instability. Watch for a positive card
following to release the situation and bring clarity to the matter.
> High Priestess: Generally, what is hidden will be revealed and usually to your benefit, but can also be a good sign of
developing psychic ability.
> The Devil: Heavy duty! Can indicate hallucinations or paranoia, more commonly suggests secrecy connected to root card
in a simple line, or if either side of a card may indicate what is being concealed.
Seven of Cups > The Moon: unrealistic fantasies, if followed by The Devil can indicate developing into an unhealthy
obsession.
> Five of Swords: Deception and dishonesty behind the scenes, watch your back.
XIX The Sun Correspondences:
Astrology: Sun
Element: Fire
Keywords & Phrases:
Happiness, success and contentment.
Sun Tarot Card Meanings:
There seems to be little The Sun cant accomplish in bringing good cheer to the table, which makes it one of the most
favourable cards of the Tarot! Finances prosper, relationships are filled with happiness and contentment, career matters are
successful, and health is filled with energy and vitality. The Sun seems to hold it all in abundance, for it not only brings
success but happiness along with it.
The Rider-Waite depicts a naked child on a white horse, Marseille style decks are often illustrated with a young boy and girl,
here in the Gilded Tarot Ciro Marchetti portrays the sun in planetary order, but in all images the sun usually dominates the
scene. In ancient times people worshipped the sun for its life-giving properties, life and activities revolved around it. In
todays world were usually cheered and everyones mood brightens when the sun comes out, (thats certainly the case here
in England)! An easy way to remember the card is the association of joy we feel when the sun shines.
Of all the cards, this is the one were most likely hoping to see as the outcome and answer to our question in a reading.
Reversed or ill-dignified meanings between readers can vary, some see it as such a positive card that it merely lessens the
effect, whilst others may read it as an almost total reversal to the upright meaning, to signal unhappiness, broken
arrangements, lack of clarity, and the possible need to keep the ego in check.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Nine of Cups (wish card) The World (success and achievement)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Tower ( Nine of Swords (worry and anxiety) Four of Cups (apathy and discontent).
The Sun Tarot Card Combinations:
In simple line formation The Sun can turn almost any situation into a positive when it trumps as the last card. Whilst it can
still be overruled when followed by cards such as The Tower or Ten of Swords, cards of a lesser negative degree surrounding
it may overshadow and reduce the effect although not completely obliterate all the good vibes The Sun radiates. The Sun
adds blessings and abundance and can boost other positive surrounding cards but may have difficulty manifesting fully when
hemmed in by minor difficult cards. In positional spreads, the placement title would be the most relevant factor.
of success and recognition in some way (usually an event outside normal circumstances or usual experience)
> The Tower: short-lived happiness or success (similarly, Death or Ten of Swords) whereas, The Tower to The Sun, can
show something that initially appears to be a disaster turns out surprisingly well and for the best.
Six of Wands > The Star > The Sun: Public recognition and acclaim, in the spotlight, possibly fame (in context).
Three of Cups > The Sun: Brings great joy to celebrations
Two of Cups > The Sun: Fortunate pairing, happy and harmonious bond, serious plans for the future.
Ten of Cups > The Sun: Happy marriage
Ten of Pentacles > The Sun: happy and contented stable family life, many blessings.
> Five of Pentacles: Reversal of fortunes
> Four of Cups: not seeing the bigger picture, may not appreciate their blessings or good circumstance.
XX Judgement Correspondences:
Astrology: Pluto
Element: Fire
Keywords & Phrases:
Resurrection and revival, roots in the past.
Judgement Tarot Card Meanings:
The Judgement card brings a past situation back into being and breathes new life into it, so something is revived and
resurrected. The image in the card is often likened to Judgement Day but the theme is not one of being judged, its more in
keeping with an awakening of the soul released from the past and born anew. There can also be a sense of karma, in reaping
what you have previously sown.
In relationships, this is the main card I look for with regard to reconciliation or revival of a relationship from the past, a
frequently asked question by clients from the Tarot. (An article covering more about relationship reconciliation can be
found here.)
When Judgement appears theres always a past connection to the matter in question in some way, as revival would suggest.
In career matters it could indicate somewhere youve previously worked or a past association that will be relevant in some
way, connected to house moves it could suggest an old stomping ground you previously called home. As always, surrounding
cards would provide the context but with Judgement it is something resurrected and coming back round, (death and rebirth)
re-doing, rather than something completely new.
Aside from resurrection and revival, words with the re- prefix (means again, or to go back, return) helps to remember the
concept too, such as: reawaken, rekindle, regenerate, renew, restore, redo lots of re-s!
If reversed it can indicate procrastinating in moving forward, postponements or delays, being stuck in the past and refusing
to see facts or what is creating a holding pattern, going back around in a circle with the same result.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Six of Cups (past aspects) Temperance (renewal)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Fool (new and unknown) The Aces (new beginnings)
Judgement Tarot Card Combinations:
Judgement is generally quite easy in combination situations, as before a card is shows a past connection that leads to or
following a card may resurrect it, so either can work. As mentioned above, if any of the opposing cards are paired with
Judgement it can amplify something from the past that leads to a new beginning (if it comes before) or a new beginning that
resurrects something as a result (when following). For me, Judgement almost always takes you back to something. Aside
from this
Wheel of Fortune > Judgement: Karmic cycle, going round in a circle.
Eight of Pentacles > Judgement: may be redoing or re-sitting an exam.
> Ten of Cups: a past relationship revived that leads to permanency, whereas in reverse order (Ten of Cups > Judgement)
could be marriage reconciliation.
> The Lovers: Resurrection of an old love relationship/interest.
Death > Judgement: boomerang effect, Lazarus, this one bounces back into life.
When paired with alternating cards, such as: Three of Swords > Temperance > Five of Cups > Judgement: can show an on-
off type relationship (Ive seen this in numerous readings).
Six of Cups > Ten of Pentacles > Judgement: returning to childhood home, or
Knight of Wands > Judgement > Ten of Pentacles: Moving to somewhere youve previously lived or have a strong past
connection with.
XXI The World Correspondences:

Astrology: Saturn
Element: Earth
Keywords & Phrases:
Attainment, success with fulfilment, triumph, acclaim.
World Tarot Card Meanings:
Throughout the deck, explanations of Tarot imagery and symbolism often relate to the recurring theme of duality in some
way, the nature of opposing forces and energy as we try to reconcile both sides and find balance, finally, in The World, we
achieve integration, a sense of wholeness and perfect synthesis; the triumphant moment. In The World we find unity, the
perfected state of oneness with the universe.
Whilst we all like to see positive cards, such as the Nine of Cups or The Sun as our outcome card, The World is like The
Big One, hitting the jackpot, or the happy ending, because it doesnt get much better than successfully realising your goal
to the point of feeling a sense of perfection and fulfilment. The balance and harmony pulls all the successive threads from
the deck together idealised into one card. Heady stuff!
The World brings successful completion with a sense of fulfilment. My personal view, perhaps influenced by the planetary
association of Saturn (the astrological taskmaster), also tends to favour the accomplishment of something that has probably
been worked toward over time, rather than an instant success variety. All the same, it heralds success, which in context with
the cards symbolic references almost sounds mundane by comparison. The World is like all the pieces of your plan
successfully coming together to bring well-deserved accomplishment.
If reversed or ill-dignified, perfection becomes imperfect, instead of integration and wholeness we find the end result
incomplete or scattered energy, possibly stagnating or becoming stuck. Success may be difficult to achieve.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The World is like the combination of all the positive cards, such as: The Sun (success and
happiness) Nine of Cups (wish fulfilled) The Chariot (triumph over obstacles) Ace of Swords (triumph over adversity) etc, so
similar cards reinforce these aspects.
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Tower, Death, Ten of Swords (generally endings) Hanging Man and Two of Swords
(stuck, non-movement) Five of Cups (sadness and disappointment)
The World Tarot Card Combinations:
The ideal placement for The World is the outcome card, or the final card in a simple line.
of success and recognition (usually an event outside normal circumstances or usual experience). The Sun and World side
by side is also pretty big news of the successful variety!
MINOR ARCANA INDEX

The minor arcana consists of four suits and deals with the many details and nuances of everyday life.
Suit of Wands
Wands represent the element of fire and indicate action and enterprise, often connected with work and business. Fire is an
active, male energy, usually surrounded by excitement and swift movement.
If you find there's a large proportion of Wand cards in the spread it tends to indicate there will be lots of activity and plenty
going on, it may also point to work matters.
The court cards of this suit may represent someone with a zodiac sign from the fire element of Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius, or
may suggest similar qualities to those signs.
Suit Element:
Fire, male active energy
Card Timing:
Fire corresponds to season of summer: June, July, August.
Keywords and Phrases:
New career or project, a whole new way of life.
Ace of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The Aces are like the powerhouses of the element represented by each suit, so the Ace of Wands holds all the dynamic
potentiality contained within the element of fire. Fire tends to gets things moving; consider how quickly fire catches and
spreads once a flame is lit, the Ace of Wands is like the initial spark that sets the fire in motion.
The Ace of Wands brings a new beginning thats surrounded by plenty of excitement and enthusiasm. This card often signals
new work or ventures and projects, as it tends to lead to creating something new.
In relationship readings the Ace of Wands can suggest the start of a passionate relationship, but it also represents new life,
pregnancy, or virility as always, read in context with surrounding cards.
Reversed, or ill-dignified, it can show a false start, something failing to ignite, fizzling out, an unrealised goal or failure to
initiate, impotency.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: All the Aces indicate new beginnings, The Fool.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Death and Ten of Swords (endings).
Ace of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
In larger spreads (such as the Life Spread) multiple Aces indicate lots of new beginnings afoot that will impact various areas
of life. If endings are present, look for the Aces to indicate a new beginning to follow. In simple line, or free-flow spreads,
look to the card following to see where the new beginning may lead. If an unfavourable card immediately follows it can show
a false start, or something new that would not materialise as it should and usually best avoided.
Multiple Aces indicate conditions that bring lots of new beginnings and fresh starts.
> The Empress: Usually conception and pregnancy but sometimes birth (in either combination) may also be joined by Ace
of Cups (usually for birth) Page of Cups.
> Eight of Pentacles: new job
> Ten of Swords: This will not work out as you hoped, brief and over almost before its begun. Also
> Death: Similar to above but a dead end.
> Ten of Wands: Think carefully before you take this on as it could prove too much and weigh you down (similarly sometimes,
The Devil)
Knight of Wands > Ace of Wands > Ten of Pentacles: Move to a new home, lots of excitement with this combination as
it brings a whole new way of life for the family.
> The Lovers: the start of a passionate love affair look for something solid following to anchor it and show it will last, rather
than fizzle out.
***********
Suit Element:
Business partnership, initial progress.
Two of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
Just as the Ace begins something, the Two follows and leads to a sense of continuity. The Two of Wands can show that
youre starting to make initial progress, usually with something in the early stages of development.
The Two of Wands is the main card I look for to indicate a business partnership, although this doesnt always need to be in
a formal (contractual) sense; the two brings a second energy into play and this can be negotiations or working with others,
collaborating together as you combine your energy and talents towards a goal.
A number of Tarot readers see the Three of Wands as the card of partnership or working with others. The Two naturally
evolved into this meaning for me through the experience of studying results from readings.
In the Gilded Tarot the forked path often makes people consider the meaning to be connected to a choice, although I usually
see that as within the progress as someone moves forward, rather than the primary meaning. The two Wands are fixed into
the ground as the man moves toward them, representing the idea or new beginning from the Ace starting to take root and
become established.
If reversed or ill-dignified, the Two of Wands stalls plans, or could indicate a troublesome working relationship with (an)others.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Two of Pentacles (balancing more than one energy) Temperance (cooperation)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Two of Swords (stalemate) Hanging Man (non-movement, Three of Swords
(separation) Five of Wands (rivalry, obstacles)
Two of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
As the card can suggest working with others, watch for Kings or Queens in close proximity to indicate the personality type
of the other(s) involved.
> Five of Wands: difficulty in working partnership with opposing views, working against each other.
Two of Cups > Two of Wands: mom and pop business, partnership in love and work.
> Three of Swords: Quarrels and upheavals in a business partnership.
Emperor > Six of Pentacles > Two of Wands: Angel investor, or possible silent partner (may also be shown by a King of
Queen instead of Emperor)
> Five of Swords: Working partner that cant be trusted, devious.
***********
Suit Element:
Small success, initial goals realised.
Three of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
Notice how the same man from the Two has progressed into the well-dressed merchant we find in the Three of Wands. The
two wands now stand behind him to represent the work he has accomplished and he holds the third forward, as he looks out
to his ship on the horizon.
The Three of Wands brings good progress where initial goals have now been realised, the duality of the Two creates the
third force of energy now made manifest. For some, this card suggests the involvement of others but I use the Two to indicate
collaboration and business partnership, although the Three of Wands can represent trade and commerce.
Although the Three is a good card it is still quite a low number and so it generally brings smallsuccess, its not in the same
league as The World, for instance, but still, great oaks from little acorns grow. Plans start to gain traction and momentum
with this card and the first steps of success create the enthusiasm and excitement to build upon further goals for the future;
a card of enterprise and forward planning.
If reversed or ill-dignified, similar to the Two, it can indicate setbacks or difficulty manifesting your goals, problems with trade
agreements.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: A number of threes generally add to the mood, although more by way of supporting than
similar: Three of Cups (celebrating) Three of Pentacles (mastery) The Empress (fruitful success) The World is more the end
result, with the Three of Wands a smaller stepping stone.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Four of Cups (apathy), Eight of Cups (abandoning plans) Death and Ten of Swords
would bring a halt to progress.
Three of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
> The World: Larger scale success follows quickly.
> Six of Wands: progress with recognition, possibly promotion.
> Seven of Cups: small success brings choices but make future goals realistic or else they could dissipate.
> Hanging Man: initial progress may be difficult to build upon, suggests a lengthy wait following a good start.
> The Hermit: consider your next steps very carefully, take your time.
> Ten of Wands: What starts out well could become a burden or over ambitious, particularly when accompanied with The
Emperor central (Three of Wands > Emperor > Ten of Wands)
Two of Pentacles > Ace of Pentacles > Six of Pentacles: stock market, stocks and shares, currency investing, precious
metals, etc. (The Magician, Justice, Hierophant, or The Emperor may also feature with the stock market). Depending
upon the interpretation you use, Three of Wands (trade and commerce).
***********
Suit Element:
Sense of stability, enjoyment of reward after effort, (secondary, making wedding plans).
Four of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The scene depicted in the Gilded Tarot is slightly different to that found within the RWS, which appears more celebratory.
The family in this card are dressed in simple country attire, appearing relaxed and contented, in the midst of four wands that
form the structure and stability of a square.
The scene is more reminiscent to the Harvest Home, which is an easy way to recall the card, a time when people would
gather to feast together to celebrate and give thanks, after their hard labour from gathering in the season crops.
The Four of Wands brings a sense of stability to the work that has gone before, which allows time to rest and relax with those
you love, a short pause in activity to take your foot off the pedal. It provides the contentment of enjoying the moment for a
job completed and well done. As were still dealing with low numbers, the Four normally brings stability and suggests simple
pleasures, possibly short breaks, and a general sense of well-being.
The garland of flowers atop the wands can suggest someone making wedding plans, although normally applied as a
secondary meaning when strengthened by other cards indicating marriage.
The Four of Wands often remains unchanged if reversed although some see it as a sense of insecurity, or the same as
upright but to a lesser degree.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Emperor (stability) Seven of Pentacles (reward from effort) supports marriage card
combinations, such as: The Hierophant, Three of Cups, Ten of Cups, The Lovers, Two of Cups, etc.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Wands (discord) Four of Cups (dissatisfied).
Four of Wands Tarot Card Combinations: Generally, a straightforward card in simple lines or combinations, bringing a
sense of well-being and a settled quality. For the secondary meaning of wedding plans, to apply it would normally support
other cards representing marriage (as above).
Suit Element:
Petty obstacles, competition, differences.
Five of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The Fives are the midway point of the numbered cards from Ace to Ten, so they can act like a pivotal tipping point where
events can easily go one way or another, making them unstable and often of a temporary nature.
After the smooth sailing progression of events from Ace through Four, we now meet with opposing forces. The Five of Wands
can indicate competition in work or business, internal rivalry and power struggles. This card can also indicate discord, so it
may be difficult for people to find agreement as everyone seems to hold differing views.
The Five of Wands usually suggests petty obstacles where it feels as though its just one thing after another, but wearing
rather than insurmountable. It can be a frustrating card to show that things wont run smoothly or as easily as you would like,
with situations of minor disruption and annoyances.
If reversed or ill-dignified, some accounts see a more serious turn to the above situations whilst others regard it as a
breakthrough.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Three of Swords (conflicts), to some degree the Seven of Wands (standing your ground)
although it tends to reflect scattered energy
Opposing or contradictory cards: Temperance (compromise)
Five of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
Collectively, multiple Fives in a spread show instability. Fives can be temporary, so look for the following card to see how it
plays out.
> Temperance: mediation to solve differences through compromise.
> The Star: problems or differences resolved.
> Hanging Man: can delay things but tends to suggest an alternative approach needed to move forward.
> Two of Swords: differences stop play, standoff with no change.
> Seven of Swords > Ace of Swords: if you handle the situation/people carefully you can triumph.
> The Tower: situation could get out of hand and lead to violent clashes, (may show riots and unrest on a larger scale
against established authority if The Emperor/Hierophant present, Justice and King of Swords can also involve police,
uniforms, etc.
> Ten of Pentacles > Three of Swords: family disputes leading to upheavals and upset.
> Eight of Pentacles (or Ace of Wands) > Five of Wands: can show stiff competition for a new post when before, or if it
follows you meet with resistance once you start.
Five of Wands > Two of Cups > Two of Swords: relationship differences where no one is relenting, resulting in no
movement or progress.
***********
Suit Element:
Accolade, others applauding your efforts, important news.
Six of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The meaning of this card is easy to relate to the image found in the Gilded Tarot. The rider carries a wand topped with a
small laurel wreath, symbol of the victor, as banners fly and crowds cheer in his presence.
The Six of Wands appears when others are applauding your efforts; it can represent a promotion at work, an achievement
or award, or simply that others have reason to sing your praises. It brings the satisfaction and reward of a job well done with
approval and recognition. Youre riding high!
Waite also likens this card to the Kings messenger, and so it may herald the arrival of important news.
If reversed or ill-dignified this card thwarts effort to accomplish plans, which may be abandoned or fail. For some this card
represents internal treachery.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The World (though success of a greater degree) The Star (recognition) The Chariot (victory
through effort) Three of Pentacles (recognised mastery) Pages or Eight of Wands (messages arriving).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Cups (disappointment) Eight of Cups (abandoning a path)
Six of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
The Pages as messengers strengthen the association of the secondary meaning, but the Six of Wands would add weight to
the news arriving (similarly, Eight of Wands). The most popular combinations are often found with work related matters
involving advancement, the Three of Pentacles can often be alongside and included...
> Six of Pentacles: promotion and pay increase.
> The Emperor: promotion to a senior or leadership position.
Eight of Pentacles > Six of Wands: new job with swift advancement (similarly, Ace of Wands).
> The Star: public recognition that puts you in the spotlight (enhanced further if The World and/or The Sun also present).
> Ace of Pentacles: can signify an important award.
Five of Wands > Six of Wands: winning out over the competition.
***********
Suit Element:
Being assertive, defending personal values, standing firm.
Seven of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
At first glance theres the feeling of a threatening atmosphere in the image of this card; the man stands in readiness against
six other wands that point toward him, but if you look closely youll notice that he stands firm and looks calm. The door behind
him is slightly ajar but beyond we catch a glimpse of a night landscape, which could represent his inner world, the seat of
his ideals and beliefs, which he defends.
The Seven of Wands indicates standing up for yourself or something you believe in thats important to you. You may feel
challenged or need to assert your position regarding a situation or point of principle. Its time to stand your ground but this
card is more about being assertive whilst holding your own, rather than taking an aggressive stance.
Stay calm, remain confident, but be resolute and have the courage of your convictions, because if you can do so you have
the ability to win through despite challenges or opposition. You can be successful so long as you stay true to your integrity,
but if surrounded by negative cards it may suggest examining your motives or reasons for feeling defensive.
If reversed or ill-dignified, may indicate wavering or being indecisive, alternately it could suggest being fixed and fail to see
alternatives, weakening your position.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Chariot (strength of will) Strength (inner courage), Ace of Swords (clarity of purpose) to
some degree, Nine of Wands (perseverance).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Four of Pentacles (holding back) Four of Cups (blas) The Moon (uncertainty) Two of
Swords (indecision)
Seven of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
Multiple sevens in the spread can also indicate a cycle change. If reading in a simple line, look to the following cards to see
the result.
For instance,
> Ace of Swords: triumph (equally, other cards representing success)
> Two of Swords: no change
> Ten of Swords: failure, fighting something you ultimately cant win.
> Hanging Man: re-evaluate the situation and your position, if surrounded with
Two of Swords > Seven of Wands > Hanging Man: may be up against a brick wall similarly
Nine of Wands > Seven of Wands > Ten of Wands > The Moon: fighting fog, you could also jump in too soon without all
the facts to hand yet, take time before asserting position.
> The Emperor: may suggest coming up against authority, but could also strengthen your position (depending upon context)
whereas, The Emperor > Seven of Wands: more aligned to asserting your position and adds clout.
Five of Wands > Seven of Wands > Five of Swords: be careful youre not being set up, others providing bullets for you to
fire.
> Five of Cups: disappointment.
Seven of Swords > Seven of Wands > Temperance: diplomacy and careful handling recommended, compromise may be
needed to restore harmony.
***********
Suit Element:
News coming in quickly, swift movement, travel by air.
Eight of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
Eight Wands fly through the air against the peaceful backdrop of a pastoral scene. The Eight of Wands indicates news and
messages coming in very quickly, it often tends to mean now, today, tomorrow, or very soon, unless the placement follows
delay cards, in which case once things start to move they do so at speed. If there have been delays this one gets things
moving!
News received is usually positive, unless surrounded by less favourable cards, and carries the enthusiasm and excitement
of the fire element found in Wands, so it often creates action and activity in response. The news and messages coming in
can be in any form, including word of mouth. The Eight of Wands can be very helpful in relation to timing.
On a secondary level, the Eight of Wands can indicate travel, sometimes by air, but most particularly when other cards
symbolising travel are also present to reinforce the meaning.
Reversed or ill-dignified, the Eight of Wands can suggest miscommunications, disputes, or lost information. It can also stall
things and bring cancellation etc.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Knight of Swords (chaotic speed) aspects of travel found in: Knight of Wands, Six of Swords,
The Chariot. The Pages as messages, Six of Wands (important news).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Page of Swords (delayed news) Two of Swords (deadlock) Hanging Man (suspension)
Knight of Pentacles (takes time)
Eight of Wands Tarot Card Combinations: One of the simplest cards to read in combinations, pairs or triplets (see above)
and possibly needs little by way of explanation. Following delay cards can release the log-jam.
***********
Suit Element:
Perseverance, nearly there
Nine of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The image in the Gilded Tarot has a slightly different tone to that found in the traditional Rider-Waite. Youll notice a repeated
theme here, with the eight wands in the ground behind the man, representing what hes worked for and achieved to date.
Against the backdrop of a moody sky, his dress and stance suggests hes battle weary yet holds onto the ninth wand,
determined to see things through and not prepared to throw in the towel, even though he seems to have been through the
wars already.
Nine is the penultimate number of the suit also suggesting that youre almost there The Nine of Wands is a card of
perseverance in readiness for the final hurdle. It may feel as though youre at the end of your tether or have nothing left to
give, yet this isnt the time to quit but to see things through and push forward.
Its similar to climbing a mountain when youre close to the top, the last part of the journey seems to take the last of your
strength and you cant see anything except the mountain, but youre almost at the pinnacle where youll finally be able to
stand and admire the view and look back upon how far youve come, the hardest part of the climb is near the end. Keep on
keeping on youre nearly there!
If reversed or ill-dignified, this card can present obstacles to thwart efforts, or prolonged resistance that may ultimately defeat
you.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Strength (endurance) Seven of Wands (standing firm) The Chariot (will power)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Eight of Cups (abandoning a path)
Nine of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
If the Nine of Wands appears as the outcome to your question it may show youre in for a long haul and the end result will
require continued effort. In simple lines and free flow methods, the easiest position is where this card bridges, so the card
following it shows to what extent the perseverance is successful.
Other cards suggesting stressful conditions tend to reinforce that aspect of the Nine of Wands if they also appear in a larger
spread, particularly
Eight of Swords, Nine of Swords, Ten of Wands, The Devil. Also, should any of these cards directly follow the Nine of
Wands it shows the situation dragging them down further.
Ideally, we wish to see a positive result, so the more favourable the card following the better, for instance: Six of Wands,
Three of Cups, Nine of Cups, Ace of Swords, The Chariot, The Sun, The World, etc.
***********
Suit Element:
Overburdened, overwhelmed, under pressure.
Ten of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The Ten of Wands image in the Gilded Tarot shows a man struggling on through the night under the weight of ten wands.
He seems determined but the load he carries appears awkward.
The Ten of Wands can indicate feeling under pressure and this may be from taking on too much or feeling that you have too
many responsibilities on your shoulders. The card signifies carrying a heavy load that has become a burden, so in future
positions it may serve as a warning. For instance, in work situations try to delegate, so youre not left struggling, or if you
have a deadline and extra work seems unavoidable try to plan ahead to alleviate the strain.
In relationship readings it may suggest heavy going where things are becoming a bit one-sided or you feel youre carrying
more than your share. For couples it may indicate additional responsibilities that can become cumbersome to the
relationship.
The effects of the Ten of Wands can often be avoided so its presence in a reading can help as a forewarning, but when
appearing in present positions it can identify when the client may feel as though they carry the weight of the world on their
shoulders.
If reversed or ill-dignified, for some this card represents a worsened situation to the above, but others sometimes see it as a
release of same.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Devil (weighed down) Eight of Swords (restriction) Five of Pentacles (tough times) Nine
of Swords (worries)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Four of Swords (rest) Six of Swords (recovery)
Ten of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
In combination look for the root, or previous card, to identify the cause of the burden, for instance: -
Five of Pentacles > Ten of Wands: financial burdens, money worries increasing, overwhelmed by debts.
Justice > Ten of Wands: feeling the weight of the law, legal situation dragging you down, read the small print on contracts.
Three of Pentacles > Ten of Wands: overworking, pressure through work. Similarly,
Ten of Wands > Three of Pentacles > The Devil: in short, workaholic.
Ace of Cups > Ten of Wands: relationship may have difficulty getting off the ground or run into problems, however, could
also warn what lies ahead in this involvement.
Nine of Wands > Ten of Wands: dogged determination that doesnt pay off.
Six of Wands > Ten of Wands: promotion that brings heavy responsibilities; is this what you want? (In reverse order hard
work pays off)
Nine of Cups > Ten of Wands: careful what you wish for.
Instead, and ideally, a favourable card following the Ten of Wands shows the release and resolution to the problem.
***********
Suit Element:
Messages concerning work, an outgoing child.
Page of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
An easy way to remember the Pages is to consider the Royal Courts of old, where children served as Pages, running errands
and delivering messages between courtiers.
For clarity in readings, the Pages are the only Courts I use that have the possibility of two meanings, either to represent
messages coming in, or as children.
As Wands are usually associated with enterprise, the Page of Wands represents news or messages coming in concerning
work matters. This is usually news of a positive nature, unless surrounded or followed by less favourable cards.
If the Page represents a child, the personality description would be active and outgoing, usually quite confident. They can
be cheerful bubbly types, adventurous and unafraid to jump into things with great enthusiasm, sometimes without much
thought to the consequences, but theyre not afraid to have a go.
Some readers use the Courts as facets of a personality, so in this respect, the Pages suggest the newness of childhood,
such as when you take up the fragile beginnings of entering a new field, you enter with a childlike state.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: As messages, all the Pages, Eight of Wands, Six of Wands.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Page of Swords (delayed news, or minor disappointment)
Page of Wands Tarot Card Combinations: As messages coming in, in simple lines follow the progression of events, so
look to the card following to see if this is favourable or what occurs as a consequence; the card preceding would show where
the message originates.
***********
Suit Element:
Change of residence, journey.
Knight of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
All the Knights represent an action or event of some description. Remembering our Royal Court, the bold Knights were
action-orientated, serving the Kings and Queens to defend the realm or sent on quests and crusades.
The Knights can represent adolescence, although in readings I find its easier to focus upon the Pages as minors, then Kings
and Queens as mature adults.
The Knight of Wands is the main card I look for to indicate someone moving home or changing address, which can be a very
helpful indicator in relation to questions concerning house sales, and the like. However, sometimes it can indicate home
renovations, although not too frequently.
An interesting twist is that if this card appears in the work area of the Life Spread it has usually shown where the person
changes office within their existing organisation, it shows a change of location where they do they normal work, although not
a change of job, (this would be Eight of Pentacles or Ace of Wands.)
The Knight of Wands is also a card to represent a long journey or travelling, sometimes it can be both rolled into one,
representing emigration.
For those that read the Courts as facets of character, the Knight of Wands can be headstrong, exciting but dashes into things
without much thought
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards:
Ten of Pentacles (property matters) other cards representing travel (Eight of Wands, Six of Swords, The Chariot)
Opposing or contradictory cards:
Stagnating or slow cards, since all the Knights bring plenty of action.
Knight of Wands Tarot Card Combinations:
When you have multiple Knights it shows plenty of action and lots happening, usually with speed. Watch for the reinforcement
of other travel cards (as indicated above).
In relation to house moves I usually look for the following to strengthen the association and interpretation: -Ten of
Pentacles (home, property) Knight of Cups (the offer) Ace of Pentacles (contracts with money and the new
beginning) Justice (contracts) King of Swords (legal man, or Queen for lady) King of Pentacles (finance man, or Queen
for lady)
Six of Pentacles (money exchange).
The World > Knight of Wands > Ten of Pentacles: adds to the international flavour of emigration and moving abroad.
> Six of Cups: moving back to somewhere connected to your past.
Suit Element:
Outgoing, cheerful lady, always busy.
Queen of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
The Kings and Queens can be very useful in a reading to indicate the personality description of a mature man or woman
appearing in a situation, it can help you to be quite clear in your interpretation. Everyone tends to have a mixture of all the
cards, similar to our astrology chart, we all have a balance of the elements, but we also tend to have dominant factors, which
is what we look for. In daily life and conversation, we often stereotype people when describing to others and this approach
is similar.
Some readers like to use the Kings and Queens to represent a facet of your personality, but I use them to identify specific
people of a particular gender, so the Queens would always be women and the Kings always men (regardless of sexual
orientation). In terms of astrological signs, I usually only use astrology sun signs to identify people in email readings, since
we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Wands would be fire signs, Aries Leo,
Sagittarius.
As with all the Court Wands, the Queen of Wands is usually warm and cheerful, often bubbly with a certain charisma that
attracts people. Theyre confident and outgoing, not afraid to jump in or laugh at themselves if it goes wrong. With the fire
element, the Queen of Wands is always busy, sometimes too much so, as they have a tendency to take on too much and
then drop the ball, so on the downside they can be disorganised or not great with details. Wands are doers, rather than
listeners, so if you have a problem shed rather do something practical to help, rather than sit around talking about it. Their
lives can appear quite chaotic but they are great fun!
Tarot Card Combinations: All the Kings and Queens have positive and negative traits so within the reading the individual
meaning is neutral, depicting a particular person, and relying on surrounding cards to see how they impact the seeker. In
future positions it may describe someone you dont know yet but who will be important to a situation coming up.
Suit Element:
Bold and dynamic, can be impulsive.
King of Wands Tarot Card Meanings:
is similar.
we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Wands would be fire signs, Aries Leo,
Sagittarius.
The King of Wands is quite dynamic but sometimes something of a risk taker because they like to push the boundaries and
rules. They like the freedom to be able to operate unfettered, like plenty of variety and may get bored easily. Confident and
self-assured, their natural charisma tends to attract others, although theyre not unknown to use this to their advantage as
they rally people round to their way of thinking.
The King of Wands is an initiator, full of big bold ideas as he leads from the front, but theres usually a whole army of people
behind him, organising the details and picking up the pieces. They can be impulsive, patience is not their strong point, they
see opportunity but conveniently forget failures along the way. On the downside, they can be rash, fiery, not good with details,
and tend to think everything revolves around them, but theyre usually quite popular (a lovable rogue) and they make things
happen.
future positions it may describe someone you dont know yet but who will be important to a situation coming up.
Suit of Cups
Cups represent the element of water, symbolizing our emotions and often connected to love and relationships. Water is a
female, passive energy.
If there's a large proportion of Cup cards in the spread then it tends to suggest emotional matters are in the frame.
With the court cards many of the attributes of the zodiac signs connected to the water element are often evident in the
characteristics (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces).
Suit Element:
Water, female, passive energy emotions
Card Timing:
Water corresponds to season of spring: March, April, May.
Beginning of love and happiness.
Ace of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
Water represents the emotions, so Cups is often the suit people mainly look for in their readings in connection with love and
relationships, and it all starts with the Ace of Cups. For those who are single, the Ace of Cups is the main indicator I look for
to show the start of a new love relationship.
For those who are attached, this Ace indicates a whole new beginning that brings happiness, usually to home and
family. With the relevant combinations it may suggest the birth of a new family member, the beginning of married life, a new
home, or some lovely new start that brings emotional happiness to those concerned. The Ace of Cups brings many blessings
to the heart department and an outpouring of love!
If reversed or ill-dignified, the empty cup, unrequited love, sterile or infertile, emotionally drained, blocks happiness.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: All the Aces indicate new beginnings, The Fool, The Lovers (love)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Death and Ten of Swords (endings) Five of Cups (sadness)
Ace of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
Many combinations in connection with relationships and quite easy to link but, as with all combinations, read in context with
surrounding cards. When showing the beginning of married life, the Ace of Cups would be part of marriage card combinations
to support it, similarly, birth may be surrounded by other cards representing family, etc. The combinations shown below only
offer a small sample of possibilities, as this is quite an easy card to work with.
> Two of Cups: new relationship progressing smoothly into something deeper.
> Four of Cups: may become disenchanted with a new relationship quite quickly.
Five of Swords > Ace of Cups > The Devil: the start of clandestine relationship (The Moon may also feature).
> Ten of Wands: new relationship may prove heavy going or burdensome.
> Death: Could be flash-in-the-pan, over before its begun (similarly, Ten of Swords brings a disappointing ending)
>The Lovers: start of a new relationship (also when order is reversed)
> The Empress: birth (in either order of combination) may also be joined by Page of Cups.
******
Suit Element:
Loving union and close bond.
Two of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
As the Ace of Cups shows the start of a new relationship so the Two of Cups indicates a deepening bond and progression
in a relationship, taking things to the next stage. For those dating it may lead to engagement or marriage. When appearing
in a spread for a longstanding couple it normally shows a strong meaningful relationship, where the couple share a deep
bond, friends and lovers, almost inseparable.
For singles: an interesting twist with this card is when the Two of Cups appears before the Ace of Cups, often indicating a
friendship blossoming into romance, where the two people are already known to one another and very attuned - with the
absence of the Ace the potential for relationship exists.
If reversed or ill-dignified, problems to an existing relationship, can show division.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Lovers (love relationship) all supporting marriage cards, Temperance (harmonious bond)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Three of Swords (quarrels and upheaval) Five of Cups (let down or betrayal).
Two of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
For many readers, this is the card of engagement or marriage, although I prefer the Ten of Cups (but this is personal
preference, as many see the Ten as happy home life, covered in later section). With the number two I see it as continuation
of, a progression, but in combination with other marriage cards would form part of that progression and association.
Knight of Cups > Ace of Pentacles > Two of Cups: marriage proposal and engagement (proposal, ring, engagement)
> Two of Wands: mom and pop business, partnership in love and work.
> Ten of Pentacles: setting up home together (also, Knight of Wands > Two of Cups > Ten of Pentacles)
> Ace of Wands > The Empress > Ace of Cups: Weve got news! A new addition to the family, expanding your brood.
> Three of Swords > Death: the end of the affair, usually permanent split (unless immediately followed by Judgement).
The Moon > Two of Cups > The Devil: partner keeping secrets, (if Five of Swords then someones taking advantage,
devious)
> Hierophant > Three of Cups: marriage and wedding celebrations (also strengthened with Lovers, Ten of Cups).
**********
Suit Element:
Celebration, emotional happiness and joy.
Three of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
Everyone loves the Three of Cups and its easy to almost feel the sense of enjoyment within this card. Although its often a
good sign of weddings and celebrations it can sometimes just show reason to rejoice with your own personal happy dance!
This card often appears when someone has reason to celebrate something that makes them feel happy and fulfilled on a
personal level. Ive seen this card following others to represent selling their home, getting a new job, receive a promotion
etc., so it doesnt always necessarily mean formal partying, although internally you may feel that way. The Three of Cups
brings reasons to be cheerful and make merry.
Dust off your gladrags and find your dancing shoes, even if only figuratively speaking, its time to let down your hair and
celebrate with friends and family.
If reversed or ill-dignified: cancelled or postponed event, emotional emptiness, feeling alienated or left out in the cold.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Sun (happiness) Wheel of Fortune (good fortune)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Cups (sadness, let down) Five of Wands (everyone at odds) Four of Cups
(apathy) Nine of Swords (worry)
Three of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
Mainly, look for the Three of Cups following other cards to see the reason for what is being celebrated, such as: job, money,
house, award, etc. Particularly found surrounded and with other cards representing weddings in the run-up to my daughters
wedding all of those cards regularly appeared in her readings together, so they tend to leave little doubt when marriage is
on the cards!
> Hierophant > Three of Cups: marriage and wedding celebrations (also strengthened with Lovers, Ten of Cups, Four of
Wands, etc).
> The Devil: Too much Christmas spirit? You could overdo it with this one ;) A pretty wild night out, but you may regret it
later.
Ten of Pentacles > Three of Cups: Gathering of the clan, family get together.
Wheel of Fortune > Three of Cups: a lucky break, you could be celebrating good fortune with this one, (if preceded by Ace
of Pentacles may be through a lottery ticket, or similar).
> Five of Swords: sour grapes, jealousy from others.
Suit Element:
Apathy, boredom, discontent, indifference.
Four of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The image in the Gilded Tarot shows a well-dressed youth surrounded by lush countryside with three golden upright cups
by his side. From outward appearances he appears to be in a good position yet seems disinterested in the fourth cup being
offered to him from the heavens.
The Four of Cups is like the Monday morning feeling, nothings really wrong but nothing feels right either, like walking around
under a cloud. The structure and stability found in the four becomes stale in Cups.
This card can indicate boredom and discontent, generally feeling weary, fed-up, or disinterested in events going on around
you. The Four of Cups reveals a mood of dissatisfaction but it can also be a warning not to look a proverbial gift horse in the
mouth, so be careful you dont dismiss something out of hand or miss an opportunity due to apathy. The Four of Cups may
leave you feeling uninspired!
If reversed or ill-dignified, it may bring fresh possibility, a break in the clouds, renewed enthusiasm.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Hermit and Four of Swords (withdrawal) Hanging Man (life in limbo)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Star (hope) The Sun (happiness and contentment) Three of Cups (joyful) Ace of
Wands (excitement and passion for something new)
Four of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
In a simple line or following other cards it can show dissatisfaction with the card that precedes it and tends to dampen the
mood - something to watch for if it follows positive cards, often meaning something isnt all its cracked up to be. However, if
positive cards follow it can represent a breakthrough. If all other indications are good with lovely cards surrounding it can
sometimes warn of not appreciating fortunate circumstances.
For example,
Ace of Cups > Four of Cups: may become disenchanted with a new relationship quite quickly.
Two of Cups > Four of Cups: bored or dissatisfied with a relationship, stale emotions.
Three of Cups > Four of Cups: (party pooper) boring event or one you dont enjoy and didnt wish to attend, a let down,
party loses its fizz
Nine of Cups > Four of Cups: be careful what you wish for, not happy with something once you get it, not all you dreamed
it would be.
The Sun > Four of Cups: may not appreciate the blessings that surround you in opposite order, complete turnaround.
Four of Swords > Four of Cups > The Hermit: feeling out of sorts and withdrawal, wrapped up in your own world. Also
>The Moon > Eight of Swords: downward spiral, becoming locked-in, perhaps time to talk to someone or take action to
avoid things escalating (The Devil and/or Nine of Swords may also feature).
> Wheel of Fortune: dont miss this opportunity (in a line of three wed be looking for another positive card following the
Wheel).
Suit Element:
Sadness, disappointment, sense of loss, regrets.
Five of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The image in the Five of Cups displays a moody sky as the knight grieves for the spilt tarnished cups beside him, representing
disappointment. Something is lost yet something still remains, shown by the two golden and upright cups that he currently
fails to see behind him.
The Five of Cups brings a sense of sadness and loss; things may not have gone as you hoped leaving you disappointed. It
can suggest feeling let down or sometimes a betrayal but, in whichever way it applies, it brings disenchantment and regrets.
In relationship readings there could be disappointment and tears, though not always permanent (see Tarot Card
Combinations section below), someone may not live up to your expectations but, emotionally, something is lost along the
way.
If reversed or ill-dignified it provides a more hopeful view and recovery of sorts, though not usually a complete reversal of
the meaning. It can help to heal hurts or to move on but wounds are still present.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Three of Swords (upheaval and upset) Ten of Swords (disappointing ending) Eight of Cups
(disillusion) Nine of Swords (worry)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Sun (happiness) Three of Cups (joyful) Ten of Cups (emotional contentment)
Five of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
As with all the fives, it takes us to the midway point, like a set of scales that can tip either way, so they often have a temporary
nature. As always, other factors would need to be considered concerning the position in the spread, for instance, it may not
bode well as a final outcome card to a question. In a simple line or three-card spread the Five of Cups is most insightful if it
falls in the central position, as the first card shows where the problem stems from and the last card as to how matters
progress.
Multiple fives in a reading show instability.
Three of Swords > Five of Cups: fairly traditional for heartbreak and tears.
> Temperance > Judgment: healing and renewal, reconciliation.
Ive seen on and off type relationships often displayed with these four cards (or similar) in leap-frog or roller-coaster
progression, such as: Three of Swords > Temperance > Five of Cups > Judgement.
> Four of Swords: retreating to lick wounds and recover.
Page of Swords > Five of Swords > Five of Cups: can be gossip and slander, jealousy, betrayal of friendships (false
friends) causing the upset.
> The Star: in close proximity such as this usually brings quick recovery from the situation.
> The Sun: complete turnaround in events, short-lived upset may be internal or unfounded emotional fears.
> Ten of Swords > Eight of Cups: time to move on and call it a day.
Suit Element:
blast from the past, nostalgia.
Six of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The focus of the card is the children playing in the meadow, a reflection of days gone by, filling cups with the flowers of happy
memories.
The Six of Cups represents past influences, so people or places from the past will feature or make a reappearance. In
whatever context, theres always a past connection with this card. For instance, depending upon surrounding cards it may
show a place youve previously worked, somewhere you used to live - an old stomping ground, an old friend reappearing, or
a past love coming back onto your radar.
You can expect a past aspect to make an entrance, but if surrounded by certain cards it may show nostalgia, or longing for
things that used to be, although generally this is a happy card.
If reversed or ill-dignified the focus is more upon the here and now, the future, and brings new possibilities.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Judgement (resurrection, roots in the past) Temperance (renewal)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Fool and the Aces bring new beginnings, rather than past aspects.
Six of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
For reconciliation situations look for the presence of Judgement and Temperance to support, but most particularly
Judgement. In other situations, the surrounding cards will show what the past aspect is associated to. For example:
> Ace of Wands (or Eight of Pentacles): it may be a new job but you there are previous connections to it, either worked
there previously, or an old associate leads you to it.
Knight of Wands > Six of Cups: moving back to somewhere connected to your past.
> Seven of Cups: dreaming of past times, nostalgia, (if The Moon also present or surrounding then possibly not very
realistic).
Six of Cups > The Devil: may show an obsession with an old love, cant let go.
> Ace of Cups: New relationship with someone from your past, already known, perhaps an old love or childhood sweetheart.
> Ten of Pentacles: childhood home
> Three of Cups: reunion with old friends.
> Temperance > Judgement: resurrection and reconciliation (strongest indicator).
Suit Element:
Choices, daydreaming.
Seven of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
Seven Cups present intriguing choices but they float in the air and skim the water, suggesting they may not all be real, are
they a figment of your imagination? There can be a temptation to get carried away with your thoughts or build castles in the
air, so a good dollop of realism doesnt go amiss when confronted with the options and choices this card may present.
This can be a helpful card to have when its surrounded by those more practical, at least indicating that choices will be open
to you or by bringing options to the table, but care is always needed to ensure you take a realistic and practical approach.
When faced with the Seven of Cups make your choices firmly based on facts, not assumptions, or the possibilities you may
envisage developing further down the line theres a warning here that you could get carried away otherwise.
If reversed or ill-dignified, brings a more determined and practical approach with clear focus.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Moon (illusionary) Two of Swords (indecision) to some degree Two of Pentacles
(balancing more than one thing).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Emperor (practical reasoning) Justice (balanced thoughts) The Hermit (wisdom).
Seven of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
Surrounding cards will indicate if the choices brought are due to favourable circumstances, or if the seeker could get lost in
their dreams and realms of imagination.
Multiple sevens in a reading indicate a cycle change.
Six of Cups > Seven of Cups: dreaming of past times, nostalgia, (if The Moon also present or surrounding then possibly
not very realistic) and
The Moon > Seven of Cups: unrealistic expectations.
Two of Swords > Seven of Cups > Hanging Man: dithering, nothings going anywhere here; indecision creates a logjam.
Suit Element:
Abandoning a path, walking away.
Eight of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The eight tarnished cups behind the man look as though they were previously stacked neatly but are now in disarray as he
turns his back to walk away from them. As Cups represent emotions this card indicates a situation where youve emotionally
invested yourself into but now decide to call it a day and move on, and this may be in any area of life.
Theres usually a sense of disillusionment, perhaps for the time, energy, or devotion already invested but, realising it isnt
going where you hoped, its time to abandon the path in search of a new direction.
Its usually a personal decision to walk away from the situation although this can be for good or bad reasons, often its
something that has long since passed its sell-by-date but finally, the penny drops.
If reversed or ill-dignified, may show that continued efforts bring good result and happiness.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Six of Swords (moving on) Death (final ending, closing the door)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Nine of Wands (perseverance) Strength (endurance) The Star (hope)
Eight of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
This is quite a self-explanatory card to work with, just look to the preceding card to see what the seeker is walking away from,
particularly if working with a simple line, or free flow spread. Ideally, wed like to see a positive card following to show a
smooth transition to something more favourable. If a negative card follows, then the seeker could make the situation worse
and its worth reconsidering options at this time. For example,
Two of Cups > Four of Cups > Eight of Cups: walking away from a relationship that has become stale or wearisome.
Five of Swords > Eight of Cups: leaving a situation unexpectedly without consideration to others, may be viewed selfishly.
> Ten of Wands: out of the frying pan possibly not a wise move at this time, but in reverse order (Ten of Wands > Eight
of Cups) a good one moving on from something that felt heavy-duty and put you under pressure.
Two of Wands > Eight of Cups: leaving a business partnership or group venture.
> The Fool: leaving an old path to explore a new one that seems more exciting, similarly Aces represent pastures new.
Suit Element:
Wishes fulfilled, satisfaction, emotional well-being, abundance.
Nine of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The Nine of Cups represents a wish fulfilled, so it rarely fails to bring a smile to someones face when it appears as the
outcome card. Appearing in other positions it can indicate what is being wished for, with the following or surrounding cards
showing to what extent this is realised.
The Nine of Cups brings abundance and good cheer, material satisfaction, emotional fulfilment, and a contented sense of
physical well-being. Whilst this is a lovely card in its own right and greatly enhances others, in relationship readings it doesnt
quite have the settled permanency of the Ten, since its the penultimate number of the suit.
If reversed or ill-dignified, hopes dashed, unfulfilled wish, fly-in-the-ointment scenario, something flawed, for some readers
it shows a sense of emptiness with material or physical pleasures, releasing superficial aspects of life.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Sun (happiness and contentment) Three of Cups (happy dance) The World (success
with fulfilment) - most cards representing happiness and contentment.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Four of Cups (dissatisfied) Five of Cups (sadness)
Nine of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
If the Nine of Cups immediately follows one of the less favourable cards it can show an interesting twist to a situation and,
despite first appearances, what seems a bad situation turns our surprisingly well; a blessing in disguise. One of the easiest
cards in combinations and probably needs little explanation.
> Four of Cups: be careful what you wish for, not happy with something once you get it, not all you dreamed it would be,
something of a let down. Amplified further if the Nine immediately followed by a negative card, such as Ten of Swords, etc,
could be very short-lived!
> The Sun: and your cup runneth over you could be exploding with happiness with this combination!
> The Devil > Three of Cups: hedonistic pursuits and wild times, serious partying!
Suit Element:
Marriage, happy family life, commitment and permanency.
Ten of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The Ten of Cups brings emotional happiness and contentment in the heart department with commitment and permanency.
In the image in the Gilded Tarot theres an emotional sense of coming home, the warm embrace of being surrounded by
those we love and family life. Ten golden cups suspended upon a rainbow, all we desire in the realms of the heart.
As Cups are the suit of emotions the Ten points to completion from the potential of where the Ace began. For a single person
in a relationship reading, when the Ten appears with no evidence of build-up to events, it can indicate the type of relationship
that has the potential to become serious and committed quite quickly. For those settled, it points to happiness within the
family unit.
I tend to view the Ten of Pentacles as the more practical side to home and family, with the Ten of Cups as emotional fulfilment,
the ultimate goal that most people hope to find in matters of the heart, sincere and lasting love that brings joy and contentment.
If reversed or ill-dignifed, it can point to problems within the close family unit, relationship or marital discord, an emptiness of
love as the contents of the ten cups are poured away.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: other marriage cards would strengthen that association (see below), Ten of Pentacles (home
and family) The Hierophant can also suggest the traditional family unit, Temperance (emotional harmony and balance).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Three of Swords (family upheavals) Four of Cups (dissatisfied) Five of Cups (sadness)
Five of Wands (lack of harmony)
Ten of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
Numerous combinations are possible with regard to serious relationships and marriage so only a few are given below. Some
people find it confusing if the Ten of Cups appears in an area theyre not expecting, such as the work area in the Life Spread,
but it normally means there will be a connection between the two in some way, or when different areas of life are impacting
one another.
Multiple Tens, as the ultimate and final number of the suits, multiple Tens in a Tarot reading signify completion of a cycle.
> Hierophant > Three of Cups: marriage and wedding celebrations (also strengthened with The Lovers, Two of Cups, Four
of Wands, etc Justice or Ace of Pentacles add the official documents).
> Ten of Pentacles: happy heart, happy home, this combination suggests stability in emotional and material matters
surrounding the home life. It can represent marital bliss and often turns up in readings for couples settling down together.
Suit Element:
Messages of an emotional nature, a sensitive child.
Page of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
An easy way to remember the Pages is to consider the Royal Courts of old, when children served as Pages, running errands
The Page of Cups represents news or messages of an emotional nature, not necessarily concerning love and romance but
news that will be felt on an emotional level. This is usually news of a positive nature, unless surrounded or followed by less
favourable cards.
As the personality description for a child, the Page of Cups would be thoughtful, caring, gentle, sensitive (sometimes overly
so) and feel things deeply, they dont tend to be as carefree or rough-and-tumble as the Page of Wands, for example. Not
having achieved the maturity of their element as yet, they can be shy or unsure of themselves, so tend to hang back or can
be a little clingy. Usually polite, quite sweet, and well-behaved, they like to please and not cause offence.
Associations:
Tarot Card Combinations: As messages coming in, in simple lines follow the progression of events, so look to the card
following to see if this is favourable or what occurs as a consequence; the card preceding would show where the message
originates.
Suit Element:
Offers, proposals, and invitations.
Knight of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
Traditionally, the Knight of Cups brings offers of marriage and with the right cards or context it can indicate someone asking
you on a date, to have a relationship with them, or a proposal of marriage.
I find that this card brings in all kinds of offers and proposals, so is not just limited to affairs of the heart, such as, someone
making an offer to buy your house, the offer of a new job, etc.
For those that read the Courts as facets of character, the Knight of Cups is dreamy and romantic, though somewhat idealistic
so not always very realistic.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Connects mainly to cards of movement and emotions.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Stagnating or slow cards, since all the Knights bring plenty of action.
Knight of Cups Tarot Card Combinations:
In simple lines look for the card following the Knight of Cups to see what is being offered or proposed, plenty of possibilities,
for instance
> Eight of Pentacles: offer of new work or a study placement.
> The Lovers or Ace of Cups: romantic proposal to become involved
> Three of Cups: party invitation
> Ace of Pentacles > Two of Cups: marriage proposal and engagement (proposal, ring, engagement). Similarly, Ten of
Cups instead of the Two, marriage proposal.
> Two of Wands: business proposition working with others, partnership, collaboration, etc
> Two of Swords: offer leaves you undecided
> Four of Cups: not as good as you hoped, leaves you dissatisfied.
> Justice: (or Ace of Pentacles) contract being offered, usually more formal for house negotiations also look for: Knight
of Wands, Ten of Pentacles (sometimes King/Queen of Pentacles and King/Queen of Swords, bank representative and
lawyer)
> The Devil: perhaps one to avoid!
> Hanging Man: whatever is being offered doesnt take off, going nowhere at this point.
> Eight of Cups: refusal, or walking away from the offer.
Multiple Knights show plenty of action and lots happening, usually with speed.
Suit Element:
Kind and sensitive lady, passive.
Queen of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
is similar.
Some readers like to use the Kings and Queens to represent a facet of your personality but I like to use them to identify
specific people of a particular gender, so the Queens would always be women and the Kings always men (regardless of
sexual orientation). In terms of astrological signs, I usually only use astrology sun signs to identify people in email readings,
since we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Cups would be water signs,
Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.
Kind, caring and thoughtful, most people like to think they have these attributes and theyre not completely limited to those
of the Cups suit, but the Queen of Cups tends to have a very sensitive nature. Whilst most people dislike confrontation or
dealing with unpleasant situations, the Queen of Cups will go out of her way to avoid them, which in itself can sometimes
cause problems.
They are lovely people and very easy to be around but they can also be worriers and not usually good with self-assertion or
letting you know if they disagree. At whatever age they have a wonderful childlike quality but it can also lean to the downside
of sulking, passive-aggressive, or being overly dependent on others. On the plus side, they are deeply caring and will notice
if youre not quite yourself and happily sympathise with your problems for hours!
future positions it may describe someone you dont know yet but who will be important to a situation coming up. Multiple
Kings and Queens can indicate that lots of people are involved in a situation.
Suit Element:
Easy-going, thoughtful and considerate.
King of Cups Tarot Card Meanings:
The Kings and Queens are helpful in readings when used to indicate the personality description of a mature man or woman
appearing in a situation, as it can help you to be quite specific and clear in your interpretation. Everyone tends to have a
mixture of all the cards, similar to our astrology chart we all have a balance of the elements, but we also tend to have
dominant factors, which is what we look for. In daily life and conversation, we often stereotype people when describing to
others and this approach is similar.
Some readers like to use the Kings and Queens to represent a facet of your personality but I like to use them to identify
specific people of a particular gender, so the Queens would always be women and the Kings always men (regardless of
sexual orientation). In terms of astrological signs, I usually only use astrology sun signs to identify people in email readings,
since we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Wands would be fire signs,
Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.
The King of Cups is easy going and gentle-natured, they usually get along with most people and dont tend to rock the boat.
They feel things deeply but sometimes give the impression of anything for a quiet life as they can be quite passive the
King of Cups would rather chew off his right arm than have to confront something unpleasant head on. Sometimes this can
be one of their telltale signs, as they curiously seem to go missing or are conveniently unavailable, leaving someone else
has to take care of it.
The water element sits happily with deeper issues, they really listen to you and make you feel understood and empathise
with problems, but they dont deal with conflict or anger very well as it feels alien and overwhelms them. Instead of channelling
it in a productive way if they do lose their temper it tends to be a build up of frustration that explodes as exasperated anger,
almost as if they dont know what to do with it. Theyre one of the nicest guys you could meet but theyre not very strong.
On the downside they can be sulky, passive-aggressive, or manipulative by using emotional guilt.
Suit of Swords
Swords represent the air element, symbolizing the intellect, analytical and logical thought, discrimination may be needed to
cut through confusion and achieve clarity. Struggle and conflict are often indicated as we battle with the mind. Air is a male
energy.
When there are a large number of Swords in the spread it can suggest challenges. This is a suit that many people can feel
concerned about but there is a balance of helpful cards within Swords too!
The court cards often display characteristics associated with the astrological signs connected to the element of air, (Gemini,
Libra, Aquarius).
Suit Element:
Air, analytical thought and intellect. Suit of challenges.
Card Timing:
Season of autumn: September, October, November.
Victory over adversity.
Ace of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The Ace of Swords offers the ability to cut through confusion with clarity of thought and strength of purpose. It reminds me
of a magic sword given to the hero of a mythical story that provides a powerful force, so no matter what the situation they
come through in the end. The Ace of Swords is like an ace up your sleeve and provides a hidden advantage, if you use it
wisely and to your best ability.
Many people worry about seeing Sword cards in their reading and, although it is the suit of challenges, theres two sides to
every coin in all the suits, and so it is with Swords. If the reading is dominated by Swords it can show that the person is
surrounded by, or heading into, challenging times, but there are savings graces within these cards too, and the Ace of
Swords is one of them.
This card informs you that you probably have more power at your disposal than you realise, gather your inner resources,
think clearly, act with singleness of purpose, and you can overcome any difficulties on your path. If life serves you lemons,
you can make lemonade with this card!
If reversed, or ill-dignifed, it may give a sense of the sword of Damocles hanging over you, clouded thinking, aggression,
failure, self-defeat.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Chariot (triumph over obstacles) many others reinforce varying aspects, such as, The
Emperor (taking control) Strength (fortitude and courage) The Hermit (wisdom) Justice (logical and just thinking) The World
(success) Seven of Wands (conviction).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Moon (clouded thinking) Two of Swords (indecision) Eight of Swords (fear paralysis)
Ten of Swords (disappointing end).
Ace of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Due to the nature of the meaning, this is one of those cards that you love to see in the final position if the seeker is going
through a tough time. Look to the preceding cards to see what is being overcome; for example,
Five of Pentacles > Ace of Swords: overcoming a financial problem.
Five of Wands > Ace of Swords: winning over the competition or opposition.
Five of Swords > Ace of Swords: defeating underhandedness, triumph over troublemakers or someone trying to discredit
you.
Two of Swords > Ace of Swords: cutting through confusion and grasping the nettle to break the deadlock.
Justice > Ace of Swords: legal ruling in your favour.
The Lovers > Ace of Swords: perhaps love conquers all, but keep a clear head.
> The Tower: consider actions carefully, unexpected consequences, out of the frying pan into the fire.
Multiple Aces indicate lots of new beginnings.
Suit Element:
Deadlock, stalemate, in two minds.
Two of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The theme of continuity found in the two becomes blocked in the Two of Swords. The suit of Swords represents the realm
of the mind, clarity of thought and discernment, but also the flip side of how we can let the fears of our thoughts sometimes
get the better of us.
In this image the womans head is disconnected from her body as it floats in a cloudy sky, with a metal band covering her
eyes and two swords crossed before her. It can be quite literal, meaning being in two minds with clouded thinking due to
conflicting thoughts, which also prevents anything happening as the two identical swords of clarity sit poised and waiting.
In readings, the Two of Swords indicates a gridlock or stalemate situation, everything is stuck and nothing is moving. In
relationship readings it can sometimes appear when the couple are both sitting on the fence and neither is prepared to cross
the invisible line, and so it continues (noticeable when minor tiffs are also evident).
If reversed or ill-dignified, can point to duplicity, disloyalty, or can represent making a breakthrough depending upon context.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Hanging Man (suspension) The Moon (uncertainty) Eight of Swords (feeling trapped) to
some degree the Seven of Cups (choices and imagination).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Justice (balanced thought and logic) The Magician (pro-active) The Emperor (initiative
and leadership) The Chariot (focussed thought and will)
Two of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Similar in some ways to The Hanging Man, when reading in combinations the Two of Swords can suddenly bring matters
that appear to be progressing well to a standstill, so its not unusual to find both of these cards present in the same reading
to reinforce one another. In most cases your interest would be in the card following, to see how or if it will be broken.
Seven of Cups > Hanging Man: dithering, nothings going anywhere here; indecision creates a logjam
Knight of Cups > Two of Swords: offer leaves you undecided
Two of Cups > Three of Swords > Two of Swords: quarrels or upsets in a close relationship leads to a standoff, no one
prepared to make a move.
> Ace of Swords: cutting through confusion and grasping the nettle to break the deadlock.
> The Hanging Man: nothing is moving here and needs a complete reassessment in order to progress.
> Temperance: indicates compromise will be needed and could take time.
Suit Element:
Upsets, upheavals, quarrels, divided opinions, separation through distance.
Three of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The Three of Swords can indicate upsets and quarrels, as the three swords pierce the heart it can be an expression of painful
emotions, the hurting heart. The stormy sky in the background of the image provides an indication of the tension and
atmospheric conditions surrounding a challenging situation.
For some readers this is the card that brings separation and splits, although for me, not so much (depending upon context).
The Three of Swords is the main card that I find appears for those in distance relationships, or people separated through
distance, so it doesnt necessarily imply an ending but the sense of unhappiness through being apart. Although within context,
it isnt the card wed wish to find as the outcome in a positional spread but in non-positional spreads, or free flow, I would
check the card following to see how matters progress for endings I prefer the clarity of the Ten of Swords, or the Death
card.
The Three of Swords can bring upheavals, crossed swords and sharp words that bring pain, general but troubling
disagreements and divided opinions, ranging from family fallouts, to upsets with work colleagues, lovers or friends. Upset
with others is always evident in some way but as it is a small numbered card, if it appears in a future position of the reading,
we can advise caution to prevent matters escalating into something more serious. The sense of division can be painful but
need not be permanent.
If reversed or ill-dignified, can suggest being in denial over differences, a lack of compatibility with someone (or others),
disorder. For some, it is seen as a reversal of the upright meaning and brings healing to difficulties.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Five of Wands (squabbling and differences) Five of Cups (sorrow and tears) Nine of Swords
(worry and anxiety)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Temperance (harmony and balance) Three of Cups (celebrating with others) Ten of
Cups (happy heart)
Three of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
In simple lines, check the card before to see where the upset originates from (such as, work, home, love, money, etc) and
the card following to see how the situation will progress.
> Five of Cups: fairly traditional for heartbreak and tears
> Ten of Swords: fall out leads to a disappointing ending.
Two of Cups > Three of Swords > Death: the end of the affair; quarrels in a loving relationship that leads to separation
with sense of finality (unless immediately followed by Judgement)
> Temperance: solutions to disagreements found through compromise but patience required, may take time.
> The Star > Temperance: healing and renewal (also of relationship, depending upon the root card leading to these two;
Three of Swords and Five of Cups may show mending a broken heart).
Two of Wands > Three of Swords: Quarrels and upheavals in a business partnership, an uncomfortable working
relationship. Similarly, Three of Pentacles > Three of Swords: quarrels and upsets at work.
Five of Wands > Ten of Pentacles > Three of Swords: family disputes leading to upheavals and upset.
Suit Element:
Rest and recovery, withdrawal, consolidation.
Four of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The knight in the image of the Gilded Tarot has removed his armour and lays to rest, the three swords on the wall beside
him symbolise the battles he has already fought, but the fourth sword is close to hand, in readiness for the journey ahead
once he has regained and gathered strength.
The Four of Swords indicates rest and recovery after strain, which I generally tend to see in a positive light, suggesting that
youve come through the worst after struggle or a stressful situation and are now entering a period of recovery. In general,
its time to regroup, pull energy together, and rejuvenate.
In relationship readings it may suggest the need for time-out, or a period of withdrawal to find retreat. In business or financial
matters, it can indicate the need to gather together resources and consolidate your position to make it stronger.
If reversed or ill-dignified, resuming activities usually following delays.

Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Six of Swords (moving into calmer times) The Hermit (solitude) The Star and Temperance
(healing aspect) Strength (pulling on inner strength)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Three of Cups (party time!) The Sun (happiness and vitality) Eight of Wands (swift
movement, enthusiasm)
Four of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
The Star > Four of Swords: healing and convalescence, also
Temperance > Hierophant > Four of Swords: may indicate a hospital stay to recover and heal.
The Devil > Four of Swords > Eight of Swords: Confinement, sometimes prison, particularly if Justice (legal system) or
King of Swords, (government officials, men in uniform) are also included.
> Four of Pentacles: consolidating finances or material concerns, replenishing stock and exercising caution with what you
have (also if these cards preceded by the Five of Pentacles).
> Three of Swords > Four of Swords: Time out, period of withdrawal after a conflicting situation.
> Four of Cups > The Hermit: feeling out of sorts and withdrawal, wrapped up in your own world, isolated retreat inward
and the need for solitude.
Five of Cups > Four of Swords: retreating to lick wounds and recover.
> Ace of Swords: recovery to advance in a stronger position.
Suit Element:
Underhandedness, hidden agenda, dishonour, deceit.
Five of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
Against the backdrop of a moody sky the man at the forefront of the image seems somewhat smug in victory pose, with his
sword held high and four others under his arm. In the background people lay injured and dying and it becomes apparent this
is where his trophy swords have come from, his gain has been to their cost.
The Five of Swords is the sneaky card, it represents deviousness, people trying to take advantage by underhanded means,
hidden agendas, deceit, or theft. In most cases it is usually actions taken against the seeker, although there are occasions
when it can represent actions of the seeker Ive found this to be far less frequent and quite rare.
On a brighter note, The Five of Swords can act as a warning if it appears in a future position, and if the seeker pays attention
to what is happening around them by raising their awareness, not being complacent or taking things for granted, it isnt
usually difficult to discover what is happening, sufficient to be able to prevent it from manifesting.
For a number of readers this is the card of selfish victory, and often short-lived, that leads to dishonour and humiliation.
If reversed or ill-dignified, still remains a fairly treacherous card, defeat and loss.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards:
Differing aspects of secrecy can be found with The Devil (not usually very healthy by most regards) or The Moon (deceptions).
The High Priestess has a secrecy aspect but normally beneficial.
Opposing or contradictory cards:
Ace of Swords and The Chariot (triumph over adversity and difficulties) Hierophant (morals, doing the right thing) Justice
(fair and balanced)
Five of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Surrounding cards should help provide further information for the root of the problem, in some cases a King or Queen
preceding may provide clear identification of a person involved that cant be trusted. Ideally, you want to see a positive card
following to show it comes to nought or is overcome.
Multiple fives in a reading suggest instability.
> Eight of Cups: leaving a situation unexpectedly without consideration to others, may be viewed selfishly.
The Magician > Five of Swords: cunning trickster, someone is not to be trusted, (also watch for a King or Queen preceding
the Five, for an accurate personality description).
> The Lovers > The Devil: clandestine relationship (The Moon may also feature).
Three of Cups > Five of Swords: sour grapes, jealousy from others.
Two of Wands > Five of Swords: Working partner that cant be trusted, devious.
Five of Wands > Seven of Wands > Five of Swords: be careful youre not being set up, others providing bullets for you to
fire.
Three of Pentacles > Five of Swords: professional jealousy, watch your back!
> High Priestess > Ace of Swords: information becoming known to you that works to your advantage and triumph,
outfoxing the fox.
> Justice: justice prevails, unless both followed by further negative card in which case it may show injustice, or perverting
the course of justice if order switched (Justice > Five of Swords)
Suit Element:
Moving into calmer times, recovery, journey over water.
Six of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The Six of Swords represents moving away from difficulties and is usually seen as a positive card, indicating that the worst
is behind you now and life will become calmer.
The image still holds an essence of melancholy, perhaps for the difficulties that have been experienced in the process,
shown by the six swords that still accompany the woman on her voyage. The passage becomes smoother now as she travels
on smooth waters and she has come through the other side of stormy times.
This card can also represent travel, sometimes over water, but the interpretation is often a metaphor of the inner journey
towards recovery after trying times.
If reversed it may show a sense of stalemate where nothing is moving and difficulties remain unresolved.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Four of Swords (rest and recovery after strain) Temperance (harmony and balance) The Star
(brighter times) other cards representing travel reinforce this aspect (The Chariot, Knight of Wands, Eight of Wands)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Three of Cups (celebrations) The Sun (happiness and vitality)
Six of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
If there are difficult or stressful cards look for the Six of Swords following to show recovery from the situation. Reinforces
travel when similar cards present (see above). The Six of Swords is one of the simpler cards in combination and probably
needs little by way of example.
Strength > Six of Swords: keep your head down and keep going, endurance will see you come through (similarly, Nine of
Wands)
> The Star: a sure sign of improvement, rest assured that life will gradually improve to a brighter position.
If followed by a challenging card: be careful that you dont move away from one problem straight into another, check your
bearings to avoid inadvertently drifting into this.
Suit Element:
Caution, handle with care, an unexpected twist, dubious activity.
Seven of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
There are varying definitions linked to the Seven of Swords, but the image in the Rider-Waite deck reflects dubious activity
and an element of stealth, although the Gilded appears slightly different. Over time, with use and tracking results, my meaning
for this particular card has changed slightly. In some ways, the more traditional interpretation of the Seven overlapped with
the Five, yet I found this card would halt and disrupt my flow in a reading, because I wasn't connecting with the given
meaning.
If using the RWS Id probably revert, due to the image. For some, the Seven of Swords represents dubious activities that
arent above board, acting in a way that is dishonourable, sneaking around, trying to get away with something, probably
something you shouldnt. It can also show someone has designs on something but their motives arent good and the plan
could fail.
With the Gilded Tarot I leave the Five of Swords as the sneaky card, but the Seven of Swords has been most reliable to
represent a situation where you feel youre having to tiptoe around someone, as if stepping on eggshells, or having to handle
something with a kid-gloves approach. It may be that you have such a situation, or person, that requires very careful handling
in order for progress to be made. The Seven of Swords can also suggest an unexpected twist, particularly if it appears as
the last card of the reading.
If reversed, danger averted, advice that cant be trusted, or possibly arguments.

Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Strength and Temperance (the diplomatic aspect of such) the caution of the Four of Pentacles,
in a positive aspect.
Opposing or contradictory cards: To some degree, The Chariot and The Emperor indicate a more forthright or open
approach.
Seven of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Due to the nature of the Seven of Swords it comes in very useful for highlighting those areas that require a softly-softly
approach. In simple lines, pay particular attention to what precedes and follows to see what needs to be handled with care
and what the outcome would be. As an easy example
Five of Pentacles > Seven of Swords > Two of Pentacles: a difficult financial situation that needs to be handled carefully
but by doing so results in maintaining harmonious balance.
Multiple Sevens in a reading suggest a change of cycle.
The Magician > Seven of Swords: a skilful manipulator
The Emperor > Seven of Swords: exercise care and caution with authority figures
Nine of Cups > Seven of Swords: your wish comes with an unexpected twist! In the opposite order, taking great care in
order to manifest your wishes.
Suit Element:
Feeling trapped or restricted, paralysed by fear. Analysis paralysis.
Eight of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
As Swords represent our challenges, and the suit of air the intellect and thoughts, so we see the eight swords surrounding
a bound woman trapped by her fears. They hold and keep her within their sphere, such is the power of our thoughts, sufficient
to render us feeling powerless against what we face. Although the eight swords may be nothing more than mental monsters,
to the person experiencing them they feel very real.
The Eight of Swords can indicate feeling trapped by a situation, as if there is no way out. It can highlight restrictions, some
of which may be real but could be imagined, creating a prison within their own mind. There are usually options but sometimes
the alternatives of what needs to happen to break free of it seem more uncomfortable than remaining where they are. Calm
and clarity are needed to find suitable solutions and fears faced in order to make progress. It can also be a sign of analysis
paralysis, so it could be warning you not to overthink something to the point where action becomes frozen.
If reversed, overcoming fears, releasing obstacles, breaking free.

Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Two of Swords (stalemate) Hanging Man (suspension) The Devil (entrapment).
Opposing or contradictory cards: Justice (balanced thought and logic) The Chariot (focussed thought and exerting will)
Eight of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Depending upon position, see what this card is linked with and the order theyre presented, ideally we look for a card following
to show what could release the situation. Usually the card preceding will show the root of the problem
The Devil > Four of Swords > Eight of Swords: Confinement, sometimes prison, particularly if Justice (legal system) or
King of Swords, (government officials, men in uniform) are also included.
> Three of Pentacles: feeling restricted within your role at work, (if order reversed Three of Pentacles > Eight of Swords:
work that youre good at but may feel like a dead end job).
The Hierophant > Eight of Swords: feeling bound by duty. Also
> Ten of Wands: trapped by responsibilities that leave you overwhelmed (could also apply in reverse order).
Two of Cups > Eight of Swords: feeling trapped in a relationship, or a situation surrounding it.
Five of Pentacles > Eight of Swords: finance or debt problem, an unexpected bill could leave you in a fix.
> The Fool: an unexpected opportunity will present itself but you need to be ready to make the most of it when it appears.
> The Magician: you need to have confidence in yourself as you have the ability to move forward.
Suit Element:
Anxiety, worry, worst fears.
Nine of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The Nine of Swords indicates worry and anxiety, and the thoughts that keep you awake at night. The woman sits up in bed,
her head bowed and arms wrapped round herself for comfort, as nine swords bar the open window. The Nine tends to bring
suffering through inner torment, the progression from conditions in the Eight of Swords if left unchecked.
Most of us have experienced the Nine of Swords at some point in our lives, laying awake battling our worst fears that gnaw
at peaceful sleep. The Nine of Swords is when we allow those thoughts to get the better of us and we suffer with worry,
anxiety, or pervading sense of gloom and despair. It doesnt necessarily mean that your worst fears are realised though,
Swords are of the mind so the fear of something may be far greater than the reality. Although someone suffering unhappy
circumstances often have this card accompanying others in the spread.
If reversed, some see this card as a recovery from the conditions found in the upright meanings, whilst others still view it as
a card of struggles, doubt, or damaging gossip.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ten of Wands and The Devil (carrying a burden) Five of Cups (sadness and regret) Eight of
Swords (trapped by fear)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Star (inspiring) Temperance (balanced emotions) Three of Cups (emotional
happiness) The Sun (happiness and contentment).
Nine of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
Other cards suggesting stressful conditions would reinforce the worries found in the Nine of Swords if they also appear in a
larger spread, such as, Eight of Swords, Nine of Wands, Ten of Wands, The Devil. Ideally, we wish to see a positive
result, so the more favourable the card following the better. Look to surrounding cards to see what is causing the concern.
The Sun > Nine of Swords > The World: may show a fear of failure, but when the Nine is surrounded by positive cards it
can be worry for worrys sake looking for something to go wrong, feeling its too good to be true, etc.
The Devil > Nine of Swords > Eight of Swords: feeling locked-in or trapped by despair, take action to avoid things
escalating (The Devil, Five of Cups, and The Moon may also feature).
Two of Cups > Nine of Swords: anxious concerning a close relationship.
Five of Pentacles > Nine of Swords: money worries.
******
Suit Element:
Disappointing ending, failed plans.
Ten of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
The Ten of Swords concludes the numbered pips from the suit of challenges, culminating in an ending with a sense of
disappointment. Plans may fail to materialise or become ruined and the emotional compass is not set to happy mode.
There can be a temptation to try to dress up the less positive cards in a reading, possibly to make the seeker feel better or
because we dont like to be the bearer of less than joyful tidings, but life is made up of a whole spectrum of colours across
the scale, and the Ten of Swords sits in the darker section. Not everything in life is set to succeed or have the happy outcome
we hope for when we first set off. In future positions the Ten of Swords can warn in advance and provides the opportunity
to alter course or avoid a particular situation that is destined to fail.
The Ten of Swords brings an ending and closes a cycle but if youre looking for the new beginning look for the Aces, or The
Fool, to see where a new one begins.
If reversed, temporary gains or improvement, a passing advantage, recovery, although it may bring some immediate relief
use the opportunity wisely as it will be fleeting
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Death (final ending) The Tower (ruin, though usually more unexpected)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Sun (happiness) The World (success) all the Aces (and The Fool) represent new
beginnings.
Ten of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
In simple lines the Ten is easiest to read in the central position, as the first card shows what is coming to an end and the
card following to show how matters move forward afterwards.
Multiple Tens in a reading indicate completion.
> Eight of Cups: time to move on and call it a day.
Ace of Cups > Ten of Swords: over almost before its had time to begin.
The Fool > Ten of Swords: Dont take the risk it leads to a disappointing ending.
Ace of Wands > Ten of Swords: This will not work out as you hoped, despite high excitement this could burn out quickly
and end in disappointment.
Seven of Wands > Ten of Swords: failure, fighting something you ultimately cant win.
Nine of Pentacles > Ten of Swords > Five of Pentacles: loss of financial position, could be substantial, take preventative
measures, financial misfortunes.
> The Star: things will improve with time and something better is waiting on the horizon.
Three of Swords > Ten of Swords: escalating problem, serious quarrel that leads to separation and brings matters to a
close.
> The Sun: consider whatever ends as a blessing in disguise as matters turn around quickly, the silver lining.
******
Suit Element:
Messages delayed or slightly disappointing, a serious child.
Page of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
If youre waiting for news then the Page of Swords can show it will be delayed, or messages received will be slightly
disappointing, as the card depicts a child it can represent minor delays, or minor disappointments.
As the personality description for a child, the Page of Swords is perceptive, quite analytical, and mentally agile. They often
appear serious as they spend a good deal of time locked in their thoughts, constantly analysing and processing information.
They may seem mature for their years and take responsibilities, and life, rather seriously, follow rules, and dislike unfairness.
Sometimes the Page of Swords can indicate a problem surrounding or concerning a child.
Traditionally, this card also indicated a gossips or troublemaker, but generally I would look for more indications to support
this side of the meaning (an example shown below).
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: For delays, Two of Swords and The Hanging Man, as gossips and troublemakers with Five
of Swords
Opposing or contradictory cards: Generally, the other Pages, Eight of Wands (good news coming in quickly) Six of Wands
(bearer of great news), indicate good news of some description.
Tarot Card Combinations:
As messages coming in, in simple lines follow the progression of events, so look to the card following to see if this is
favourable or what occurs as a consequence; the card preceding would show where the message originates.
******
Suit Element:
whirlwind of action, chaotic speed.
Knight of Swords Tarot Card Meanings:
As an event the Knight of Swords represents the fearless knight, bold and courageous he comes rushing in but with such
speed it holds quite a chaotic quality, as though everyone else hasnt quite caught up yet. Whatever situation lands, it will
feel as though everyone wants everything by yesterday.
With the Knight of Swords, the situation will sweep in like a whirlwind, a tornado of air energy, so have your running shoes
on standby.
For those that read the Courts as facets of character, the Knight of Swords is decisive and assertive, bold and fearless but
can be slightly headstrong.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Eight of Wands (swift movement)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Knight of Pentacles (slow and steady, by comparison).
Knight of Swords Tarot Card Combinations:
The Knight of Swords is very helpful to show things happening at great speed or with a sense of urgency, so once it lands
matters will really pick up the pace.
> The Hanging Man: this combination is like running straight into a brick wall, speed comes to nought as everything falls
into a holding pattern (the Two of Swords is similar). In reverse order, its a matter of relief as situations spring into action
after a brief pause.
Suit of Pentacles
Pentacles represent the element of earth, symbolizing our physical world and the material aspects. Earth is a female energy
with a stabilizing and grounding influence.
When you have a number Pentacle cards in a spread it often highlights financial matters, but may also show that a steady
and methodical approach is required.
With the court cards the characteristics, or personality traits, often associated with the astrological signs connected to earth
may be more dominant (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn).
Suit Element:
Earth, grounding, steady and stable. Material concerns.
Card Timing:
Season of winter: December, January, February.
Keywords and Phrases: Gifts of gold, seeds of prosperity, financial contracts of material concern.
Ace of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
Earth represents material concerns, so the suit of Pentacles usually signifies stability, finances, and material possessions.
As all the Aces represent new beginnings, so the Ace of Pentacles indicates the potential for the beginning of wealth and
prosperity, a promising sign for new endeavours. Traditionally, this card meant gifts of gold, so sometimes it can indicate a
ring or jewellery.
The large gold coin is symbolic but in todays world financial transactions are often paper and contractual by nature, so the
Ace of Pentacles can represent all types of documents of material significance, property paperwork, employment or business
contract, educational award, or marriage contract.
If reversed, financial problems and financial instability, misappropriation or misuse of funds, corruption, backhanders, money
wasted, money or material goods that dont bring happiness.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: All the Aces indicate new beginnings, and The Fool. Justice would reinforce legal contracts.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Death and Ten of Swords (endings) Five of Pentacles (material loss)
Ace of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
Ace of Wands > Ace of Pentacles: new endeavour that holds good promise to do well financially, or new work with
employment contract.
Six of Wands > Ace of Pentacles: recognition through receiving an important award, can also represent promotion.
> Ten of Pentacles > Knight of Wands: property purchase or home move (other indications may also include Justice (legal)
King or Queen of Swords (lawyers) King or Queen of Pentacles (finance managers).
Knight of Cups > Ace of Pentacles > Two of Cups: marriage proposal, engagement ring. (proposal, ring, engagement).
Similarly, Ten of Cups instead of the Two, marriage proposal.
Lovers > Ace of Pentacles > Ten of Cups: marriage contract.
metals, etc. The Magician (Internet and communication), Justice (legal instruments), Hierophant, or The Emperor may
also feature with the stock market. Depending upon the interpretation you use, Three of Wands (merchants, trade and
commerce)
Six of Pentacles > Ace of Pentacles: a generous gift, may involve gold or jewellery but also financial.
Eight of Pentacles > Hierophant > Ace of Pentacles: educational award, but also could be new work with a large
establishment.
> Wheel of Fortune > Six of Pentacles: Lucky ticket. A new venture that brings financial gain.
Death > Ten of Pentacles > Ace of Pentacles: family inheritance, legacy. Also
> Justice: a legal trust or testament (usually family with Ten of Pentacles)
costly.
Suit Element:
maintaining balance, balancing act.
Two of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
In the Gilded Tarot image of the Two of Pentacles a man juggles two coins through a rainbow, but everything around him
appears calm, from the surroundings to the expression on his face, and rainbows are always seen as a sign of hope.
The Two of Pentacles represents successfully maintaining balance, whether with finances, or having to juggle different
aspects of life. Juggling requires concentration so the balancing act may require some effort but is still attainable.
This card can suggest multiples, or more than one thing in play, such as someone balancing two jobs, juggling a number of
different projects, and sometimes, with the relevant cards, more than one relationship. In financial matters, care may be
needed to balance the books.
If reversed, dropping the ball, difficulty maintaining the status quo, lack of concentration causes problems, lost in the loop,
beyond capabilities.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Temperance (maintaining balance) The Magician (dexterity and skill) Seven of Cups (can
also show multiples)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Two of Swords (deadlock)
Two of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
In combinations look to the surrounding cards to see what is being balanced or multiplied. If followed by a negative card,
such as Ten of Swords, Death, Five of Cups, etc, balance will be lost and effort to no avail.
> Ten of Wands: feeling as though youre spinning plates, overload ahead
The Lovers > Two of Pentacles: may be balancing more than one relationship, look for other supporting cards, if followed
by The Moon, The Devil, or Five of Swords it isnt usually above board, double trouble.
Five of Pentacles > Seven of Swords > Two of Pentacles: a difficult financial situation that needs to be handled carefully
but by doing so results in maintaining harmonious balance.
> Three of Pentacles: may be more than one job, multi-tasking at work.
Seven of Swords > Two of Pentacles > Four of Pentacles: may be a careful or savvy investor, taking care to hold onto
what you have to make it last.
> Nine of Pentacles: financially pulling a rabbit out the hat!
costly.
> Ace of Pentacles > Six of Pentacles: stock market, stocks and shares, currency investing, precious metals, etc. May
also feature, The Magician (Internet and communication), Justice (legal instruments), The Hierophant, or The
Emperor, with the stock market. Depending upon the interpretation you use, Three of Wands (merchants, trade and
commerce).
Suit Element:
Master craftsman, work youre good and enjoy and are recognised as such, industry.
Three of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The man in the image appears to be a skilled craftsman; surrounded by the tools of his trade he inspects his handiwork with
an expression of pride and satisfaction.
When the Three of Pentacles appears in a reading it usually shows work that youre good at and enjoy and others recognise
your ability within this. Unlike the apprentice learning their skill in the Eight of Pentacles, the Three shows a master craftsman
who has served his time and perfected his art. Its normally work that youre already skilled at doing, so it doesnt normally
represent new work but something youre already accomplished in, a familiar field, or have previous experience to a good
degree.
The Three of Pentacles is always a card of work for me, so if relationship cards appear alongside it suggests there is always
a link between the two in some way, rather than a love of work (examples shown below).
If reversed, poor workmanship, frustrated efforts at work, not being recognised for talents, dissatisfied with position or
accomplishments.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Magician (mastery and skill)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Eight of Pentacles (apprentice)
Three of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
As the card of skilled work there are many possibilities that can apply to this card.
Ace of Wands > Three of Pentacles: new work or job but in an area youre already experienced in, or known to be good
at.
> Six of Wands: receiving an award at work or for your work, if The Emperor follows may show a promotion to senior position.
> Ten of Wands: overworking, pressure through work. Similarly, Ten of Wands > Three of Pentacles > The Devil: may
indicate a workaholic.
> Six of Cups: going back to work for a past employer or work from your past, Judgement would also show resurrection
but can be the revival of a previous profession.
> Three of Swords: quarrels and upsets at work.
> Five of Swords: professional jealousy, watch your back!
Eight of Swords > Three of Pentacles: feeling restricted within your role at work, (if order reversed Three of Pentacles >
Eight of Swords: work that youre good at but may feel like a dead end job).
The Magician > Three of Pentacles: Mastery at work through concentrated effort and utilising skills, an artisan.
> The Fool: applying what you know in new and innovative ways in unknown territory.
> The Lovers: potential of a love interest that comes through work. Also
> Ace of Cups, if single this can represent a new relationship found through the workplace, or in some way connected. If
the order is reversed
The Lovers or Two of Cups > Three of Pentacles: can indicate that comes to you through connections of your partner.
Also
Two of Cups > Two of Wands > Three of Pentacles: partnership in love and work.
Two of Pentacles > Three of Pentacles: may be more than one job, multi-tasking at work.
Ten of Pentacles > Three of Pentacles: family business, working from home, sometimes property business or trades.
Suit Element:
over-cautious, holding back, material ambitions, miserly.
Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The wealthy merchant in the Four of Pentacles appears to have all he needs, being well dressed and in comfortable
surroundings, yet he holds his gold close to his chest, as though he fears losing it or doesnt wish to part with it.
Material concerns may be at the forefront of your mind, although this is the classic card of being miserly or materialistic,
there are also times in life when money may be in short supply and you have to be careful with what you have to try to make
it last. The Four of Pentacles can also appear if someone is working hard towards a financial goal. In general, it usually
suggests theres an element of being cautious and holding back in some way and this can apply to any area of life, so
surrounding cards and context is important.
In relationship readings the Four of Pentacles can show that youre holding back emotionally, perhaps feeling cautious about
becoming involved or with some aspect of the relationship. Sometimes it can also be a warning that youre clinging too tightly
or perhaps being a bit possessive.
If reversed, material matters are stuck or hit obstacles and setbacks, for some readers this card suggests release.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Two of Swords (stalemate) Hanging Man (non-movement) The Hermit (prudent) Temperance
(moderation)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Six of Pentacles (sharing) The Fool (carefree)
Four of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
Check surrounding cards to find the context of what creates the reason of the Four, but as a root card (start of a chain) check
to see what follows to release it or the progression. As always, there are many possibilities
> The Fool: throwing caution to the wind and stepping out. In reverse order, (The Fool > Four of Pentacles) holding back
from a new opportunity, afraid to let go.
The Empress > Four of Pentacles: possibly a possessive mother figure who doesnt want to let go, smother love.
> The Lovers: holding back emotionally, perhaps cautious about becoming involved in a relationship.
> The Hermit: wise and prudent saver, canny and shrewd investor.
> Two of Pentacles: being careful with finances to keep the flow going, balancing the books and keeping a check on
finances.
Four of Swords > Four of Pentacles: consolidating finances or material concerns, replenishing stock and exercising
caution with what you have (also if these cards preceded by the Five of Pentacles).
Suit Element:
financial hardship or loss, material problem, tough times.
Five of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The Five of Pentacles is a card of lack, it can represent financial difficulties, possible hardship or loss with material matters
but, as fives are the pivotal point and unstable element that can tip either way, its often temporary circumstances.
The Five of Pentacles can bring unexpected bills or expenses at the least opportune time, like the exhaust falling off your
car when you need it for work, the boiler giving up the ghost in the middle of winter, and so on, it creates extra expenditure
and leaves a hole in your pocket because its something that cant wait and must be dealt with.
All forms of financial affairs are highlighted, the cheque you were relying upon that doesnt arrive, paid work that dries up or
hits a quiet period, your account in the red, being turned down for a loan or financial assistance, or on a lesser level being
short-changed. The Five of Pentacles warns of temporary hardship when money will be thin on the ground.
In most cases it acts as a warning, so if it appears in a future position try to squirrel some funds away ready for a rainy day,
or take action to avert a situation that can lead to loss. Unless followed by particularly negative cards, such as The Tower, it
isnt usually catastrophic, just inconvenient or not what we would wish for.
In relationship readings the Five of Pentacles can point to finances creating problems in the partnership. On a personal basis
it can suggest a sense of desolation, a feeling that loss has been experienced on every level, physical, mental, emotional,
and spiritual, including loss of hope.
The beggars in the image focus upon their fate, yet they stand beneath the pentacles in the stained glass window of the
church that could provide shelter, so there can be a warning not to miss an opportunity that may help you,
If reversed, it may bring a reversal of fortunes, a narrow escape, slowly regaining position, or emerging from a loss.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Five of Cups (sense of loss) The Four of Cups also contains the warning of not missing a
valid opportunity.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Nine of Pentacles (financial comfort), Ten of Pentacles (stability), The Star (hope and
inspiration), The Sun (abundant blessings).
Five of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
With all the fives pay particular attention to the card that immediately follows, as this will show how the matter will progress
and if it is temporary. The card preceding the five often shows where the problem stems from.
Multiple Fives in a reading indicate instability.
Six of Pentacles > Five of Pentacles: money in, money out.
> Ten of Wands: financial burdens, money worries increasing, overwhelmed by debts.
> Ace of Swords: overcoming a financial problem.
> Seven of Swords > Two of Pentacles: a difficult financial situation that needs to be handled carefully but by doing so
results in maintaining harmonious balance.
> Eight of Swords: finance or debt problem, an unexpected bill could leave you in a fix.
> Nine of Swords: money worries.
Eight of Pentacles > Five of Pentacles: taking a new job but with a drop in salary, may be for less money initially or less
than you hoped for.
Nine of Pentacles > Ten of Swords > Five of Pentacles: loss of financial position, could be substantial, take preventative
measures, financial misfortunes.
costly.
Suit Element:
Generosity, gifts, sharing.
Six of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
A well-dressed merchant balances gold upon the scales as he dispenses gold coins to the outstretched hands of others
below.
The Six of Pentacles brings gifts and sharing. It can signify someone being generous to you through a present received, a
pay increase at work, or a charitable gift. Sometimes it represents the flow of money, both in giving and receiving, money
being paid or shared out, but generally it tends to bring about improvement in financial circumstances.
In certain circumstances it may show that you are the one being generous to others, although usually it represents a gift
you receive.
If reversed, it may represent being selfish or uncharitable, debts or obligations not being met.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ace of Pentacles (gifts of gold)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Four of Pentacles (withholding) Five of Pentacles (financial lack)
Six of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
There are five cards that can all represent an increase in finance, so in large spreads (such as the Life Spread) watch for
the appearance of the Ace of Pentacles, Six of Pentacles, Seven of Pentacles, Nine of Pentacles and Ten of Pentacles,
the more that appear the more the message is reinforced and intensified.
> Ace of Pentacles: a generous gift, may involve gold or jewellery but also financial.
> Five of Pentacles: money in money out, it can also show money youre expecting to be repaid doesnt arrive.
Six of Wands > Six of Pentacles: promotion and pay increase, financial bonus through recognition at work.
The Hierophant > Six of Pentacles: may indicate charity or charitable organisation, a generous benefactor. AlsoThe
Hierophant > Three of Cups > Six of Pentacles: may be a charitable fundraiser, although with other marriage cards can
represent wedding gifts.
Ace of Pentacles > Wheel of Fortune > Six of Pentacles: Lucky ticket, a new venture that brings financial gain.
metals, etc. May also feature, The Magician (Internet and communication), Justice (legal instruments), The
Hierophant, or The Emperor, with the stock market. Depending upon the interpretation you use, Three of
Wands (merchants, trade and commerce).
The Emperor > Six of Pentacles > Two of Wands: Angel investor, or possible silent partner (may also be shown by a King
of Queen instead of Emperor)
In relation to house moves I usually look for the following to strengthen the association and interpretation: Ten of
Pentacles (home, property) Knight of Cups (the offer) Ace of Pentacles (contracts with money and the new
beginning) Justice (contracts) King of Swords (legal man, or Queen for lady) King of Pentacles (finance man, or Queen
for lady) Six of Pentacles (money exchange).
Suit Element:
Gathering in your harvest, financial improvement.
Seven of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The Seven of Pentacles represents gathering in your harvest and the result of your efforts, we reap and sow, we plant and
harvest. This may also be on a more metaphorical level, although generally theres usually a financial connection.
If we consider the process in farming, first the farmer must prepare the soil, plant the crop and tend to it over a period of time,
if the weather works in their favour and conditions are good they finally reach the point of collecting the crop. Its only at this
point that they can receive payment for their effort, so the harvest bears fruit in more ways than one, but then the cycle must
be repeated in readiness for the following harvest.
The Seven of Pentacles suggests something that has been diligently and methodically worked upon, and now comes to the
moment when efforts are rewarded. This card especially resonates with the theme found with multiple sevens of a cycle
change.
The Seven of Pentacles can bring financial improvement and is also a good card for loans and negotiations, although as the
theme suggests its normally worked toward over a period of time, so its quite an industrious card. A successful outcome
showing growth achieved through hard work.
If reversed, imprudent, output exceeds input with little return for efforts
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Empress (fruitful harvest) Four of Wands (harvest home) Knight of Pentacles (results
finally forthcoming) to some extent the Four of Pentacles (prepared to work hard towards a material goal).
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Four of Cups (apathy) Four of Swords (inactivity) Five of Pentacles (financial lack)
Seven of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
the more that appear the more the message is reinforced and intensified.
Multiple Sevens in a reading indicate a change of cycle.
> Three of Wands: working hard pays dividends and leads to small success
> Four of Wands: enjoyment of leisure after hard work. In certain circumstances can represent farming, with Ten of
Pentacles and Empress could represent a farming family.
> Four of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: working hard and saving, with success.
King of Pentacles > Seven of Pentacles > Six of Pentacles: successfully negotiating a loan with the bank manager (or
similar financial position)
Ten of Pentacles > Seven of Pentacles > Ace of Pentacles: can represent a property loan withThe Chariot instead of
the Ten, car loan.
Nine of Wands > Seven of Pentacles > Knight of Pentacles: perseverance pays off, in for the long haul but results
achieved.
Suit Element:
learning and studying, apprentice, new work.
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The Eight of Pentacles is known as the card of the apprentice, so it represents learning and studying, polishing and honing
your skills, or taking new employment. Even if youre fairly skilled at what you do, when you start a new post it takes a few
weeks to find your bearings and learn the systems of the new employer.
In the image of the Gilded Tarot, the young apprentice sits at his desk as the light fades and his candle burns long into the
night, diligently studying the Pentacles before him. Formal education could be relevant, but also informal or experiential
courses that require methodical application to acquire a new skill or perfect existing ones.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ace of Wands (for new work) Seven of Pentacles (application, prepared to put in the effort)
Opposing or contradictory cards: The Magician and Three of Pentacles for skill and mastery.
Eight of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
The Eight of Pentacles is one of the main indicators to look for to indicate new employment.
Ace of Wands > Eight of Pentacles: a new job or new work.
> Eight of Pentacles (or Ace of Wands) > Five of Wands: can show stiff competition for a new post when before, or if it
follows you meet with resistance once you start.
> Six of Wands: new job with swift advancement (similarly, Ace of Wands).
Knight of Cups > Eight of Pentacles: an offer of new work or a study placement.
The Hermit > Eight of Pentacles > The Hierophant: Place of study, knowledge and wisdom, University or education
establishment.
> Hierophant > Ace of Pentacles: educational award, (Six of Wands may also feature for recognition), but also could be
new work with a large establishment.
> Eight of Cups: abandoning a course without completion, or not staying long in new employment.
> Three of Pentacles: good progression from apprentice to mastery of a skill, if the order is reversed it shows new work in
a field where youre already experienced.
Suit Element:
Material comforts, financially independent, card of plenty.
Nine of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
A woman stands alone, beautifully dressed in a bountiful garden that flourishes around her as she observes the falcon upon
her arm. Falcons were something of a status symbol in medieval times and initially a preserve of nobility and hobby of the
wealthy in England and Europe. The lone woman suggests self-reliance.
As the card of plenty and abundance, the Nine of Pentacles brings financial comfort and the enjoyment of material pleasures,
or at least an improvement in finances sufficient to allow some creature comforts.
This card often turns up in readings for people who are financially independent, can stand on their own and pay their own
way in life, so doesnt necessarily represent being without relationships, although for some readers it is a sign of solitude.
If reversed, can represent a lack of principles or roguish behaviour, projects that come to nothing, excessive spending or
unrestrained indulgence.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: Ten of Pentacles (riches) The Empress (fruitful harvest)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Pentacles (financial lack)
Nine of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
the more that appear the more the message is reinforced.
Multiple Nines in a Tarot reading highlight the nearly there aspect, tying up loose ends and heading toward conclusion.
Two of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: financially pulling the rabbit out the hat after careful jiggling!
Five of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: rags to riches, the famine and the feast, swift turnaround in financial affairs.
Six of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: can indicate a substantial financial gift.
Wheel of Fortune > Nine of Pentacles: a fortuitous opportunity, one that pays off.
Seven of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: beavering to create your own money tree, financial abundance through your own
efforts.
Seven of Pentacles > Four of Pentacles > Nine of Pentacles: working hard and saving with successful outcome.
> Five of Swords: guard against theft or being conned.
> Ten of Swords > Five of Pentacles: loss of financial position, could be substantial, take preventative measures, financial
misfortunes.
Suit Element:
Material stability, home and family, property.
Ten of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
Whilst the Nine suggests financial bounty the Ten of Pentacles is more established and firmly rooted, providing material
security and family stability. It connects to family affairs, the hearth and home, family clan, the family property, inheritance
and legacy passed down through generations.
The RWS depicts three generations in the card, whereas the Gilded Tarot shows a solid wooden trunk filled to overflowing
with golden Pentacles. Family treasures were often stored away and passed to future generations to establish their home
but it can also represent wealth, or the stability that money can bring.
The Ten of Cups may bring emotional happiness and permanence but the Ten of Pentacles provides the material stability
of the family, the place you call home, so it often features in combinations concerning property moves too.
If reversed, it can indicate family problems, risks and loss, uncertain times and instability, or feeling honour bound.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: The Hierophant (traditional values) The Emperor and Four of Wands (stability) Nine of
Pentacles (material comfort)
Opposing or contradictory cards: Five of Pentacles (financial instability)
Ten of Pentacles Tarot Card Combinations:
the more that appear the more the message is reinforced.
Multiple Tens in a Tarot reading suggest a period of completion.
Five of Wands > Ten of Pentacles > Three of Swords: family disputes leading to upheavals and upset.
Knight of Wands > Ace of Wands > Ten of Pentacles: Move to a new home, lots of excitement with this combination as
it brings a whole new way of life for the family.
Six of Cups > Ten of Pentacles: childhood home, people or places connected to your old stomping ground and where you
grew up.
Ten of Cups > Ten of Pentacles: happy heart, happy home, this combination suggests stability in emotional and material
matters surrounding the home life. It can represent marital bliss and often turns up in readings for couples settling down
together. AlsoTwo of Cups > Ten of Pentacles: for nesting couples about to move in together and set up home.
> Three of Cups: Gathering of the clan, family get together.
> Ace of Pentacles: important document connected to the home with material relevance.
> Three of Pentacles: family business, working from home, sometimes property business.
Ace of Pentacles > Ten of Pentacles > Knight of Wands: property purchase or home move (other indications may also
include Justice (legal) King or Queen of Swords (lawyers) King or Queen of Pentacles (finance managers).
Death > Ten of Pentacles > Ace of Pentacles: family inheritance, legacy. Also
> Justice: a legal trust or testament (usually family with Ten of Pentacles)
The World > Knight of Wands > Ten of Pentacles: adds to the international flavour of emigration and moving abroad.
Suit Element:
Messages regarding material matters, reliable child.
Page of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The Page of Pentacles brings news or messages concerning material matters but can also connect to education and study.
As a personality description for a child, the Page of Pentacles is steady and reliable, methodical in their approach and quite
often practical or good with their hands. They may be studious or academic and prefer order with a set routine, they tend to
work steadily and patiently and are often hardworking, helpful, and well behaved.
Some readers use the Courts as facets of personality, so in this respect, the Pages suggest the newness of childhood, such
as when you take up the fragile beginnings of entering a new field, you enter with a childlike state.
Associations:
Tarot Card Combinations: As messages coming in, in simple lines follow the progression of events, so look to the card
following to see if this is favourable or what occurs as a consequence; the card preceding would show where the message
originates.
Suit Element:
results finally forthcoming, slow and steady
Knight of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
The Knight of Pentacles appears to be stood still with the grass growing around the horses feet, suggesting slow movement.
The rabbit in the corner of the image reminds me of the childrens story of the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady wins
the race. It represents a situation that has gone on for a long while but his arrival in a reading also indicates that results are
finally forthcoming, although this can be for good or bad, depending upon surrounding cards.
For those that read the Courts as facets of character, the Knight of Pentacles is dependable, works through things thoroughly
and doesnt cut corners along the way.
Associations:
Similar or supporting cards: All the Knights represent action and movement, although the Knight of Pentacles is a much
slower energy, in this regard, slow moving cards such as, The Hermit, The Hanging Man, Two of Swords.
Opposing or contradictory cards: Knight of Swords (chaotic speed), Eight of Wands (swift movement, news arriving
quickly).
Tarot Card Combinations: Useful in terms of timing as this card doesnt move things along quickly, but also in identifying
a long-standing ongoing situation.
Suit Element:
capable and practical lady, orderly, finance managers.
Queen of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
is similar.
orientation). In terms of astrological signs, I usually only use astrology sun signs to identify the seeker in email readings,
since we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Pentacles can be earth signs,
Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.
The Queen of Pentacles likes order, always reads the instructions, makes to do lists, and files everything away neat and
tidy where it belongs. Relevant to the suit and earth element, Pentacles are practical and methodical, working thoroughly
from start to conclusion; they bring sense and order to chaos and like to keep it that way! On the downside they can become
too rigid or set in their ways, stubborn, or sometimes need to lighten up a bit
There are two sides to the Pentacle coin, they can represent moneyed people, or have down-to-earth qualities of those that
work in practical (or earth related) industries. We often find them in readings to represent female bank managers, accountants,
or financial advisors, along with King or Queen of Swords (lawyers) with house sales and moves, inheritances or money
matters.
Suit Element:
Earth: grounding, steady and stable. Material concerns.
reliable and steadfast man, astute with money.
King of Pentacles Tarot Card Meanings:
cards, similar to our astrology chart we all have a balance of the elements, but we also tend to have dominant factors, which
is similar.
we dont have the advantage of a two-way conversation in a normal reading situation. Pentacles would be earth signs,
Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.
The King of Pentacles is usually solid, calm and dependable, theyre hardworking and have the ability to work tirelessly from
beginning to end on projects. Theyre usually quite canny with the pennies too; shrewd and astute they dislike waste and
have a good eye for a bargain. The King of Pentacles is a planner and researches things thoroughly. On the downside they
can become set in their ways, be blunt, stubborn, or overly concerned about material matters.
There are two sides to the Pentacle coin, they can represent moneyed people and landowners, or have down-to-earth
qualities of those that work in practical or earth related trades, builders, tradesmen, agriculture, food, etc. We often find them
in readings to represent bank managers, accountants, or financial advisors, along with King or Queen of Swords (lawyers)
with house sales and moves, inheritances or money matters.
Simplified meanings of the 22 Major Arcana of the Tarot according to Philippe Camoin
Note: many of the interpretations below differ fundamentally from the interpretations which have been taught before by
readers and teachers of tarot. It is thanks to the Secret Codes of Tarot that Philippe Camoin was able to discover the first
meanings of the Major Arcana of the Tarot de Marseille.
This is how he was able to demonstrate that the balls in The House of God are in fact coins falling from the sky, and that this
card is not at all negative as was believed by tarotists as a whole. Quite the contrary: "La Maison Dieu" is a card full of
rewarding opportunities for those who know to say "yes" to God.
Similarly, Le Mat is not at all a "fool", but a spiritual pilgrim
LE MAT
Pilgrim on a spiritual quest, in movement. Represents the Tarot itself, as well as the human soul, the search for self. for
something, change of residence, freedom, movement, quest, voyage.
REVERSED : Folly, regression, refusal to move forward, the person wants to turn back or is afraid to go toward the future,
is going back on a decision.
THE JUGGLER
Represents work, hyperactivity. New project, start of a new cycle. Beginning of a never-ending task without knowing where
it will lead. Magician, illusionist working with raw materials, wants to accomplish his mission. Manual labor. Employee.
REVERSED : a trick, clever manipulation, using ones power to mislead others.
THE POPESS
Receptivity and passivity, she symbolises accumulation of knowledge from other places : learning things that others have
done. The book is wisdom, connection to the world of the soul. Her veil suggests secrets. The white face relates to the moon,
to purity. Evokes the mother. Training, studies. Writing.
REVERSED : Refusal to learn or to receive.
THE EMPRESS
Represents the world of ideas before they are actualized. Activity in the abstract. She awakens the eagle, symbol of the
mental which is put into activity with her own ideas. The font shows that she is one who purifies, from "limpratrice" (limpid,
pure). Creativity, artist who sees the fruits of her imagination.
REVERSED : At a loss for ideas, lack of creativity.
THE EMPEROR
Representes one who makes projects a reality. A builder who puts the ideas of the Empress into action. He is jovial (his legs
crossed in the shape of a 4 are a Jupiterian symbol), courageous. He commands : He is the ideal enlightened leader, makes
potential actual.
REVERSED : Tyrannical person, obstacles to realization or action, fear of taking action.
THE POPE
Represents one who transmits, who teaches. He is a visionary, looking toward the future. A benefactor who will help. The
scepter he holds is an antenna for receiving signals from the "beyond". He must transmit in order to be able to receive.
Possesses learning. Suggests the father. The theatre.
REVERSED : Blockage or refusal to transmit, thus also to receive.
THE LOVER
Inspiration, choice, communication between human beings. Sacred union between man and woman. Love is the fundamental
experience for mastery of the earth plane. Suggests a love dilemma, also speaks of a good choice, guided by Heaven which
whispers its thoughts. Magnetism.
REVERSED : Problem with adultery, with a choice or with communication.
THE CHARIOT
Victory in the material plane, success in the human world. At the end of a "battlefield", he is crowned and stripped of doubts
and chance : He has finished his initiation as a human being. A winner who knows what will happen. Someone with power,
who can help others. Symbol of a voyage. Suggests the son.
REVERSED : Refusal of or obstacle to success.
JUSTICE
Financial, emotional, mental, or physical equilibrium. Represents the tightrope walker who walks on the wire of his existence,
weighing whether he does good or evil. Karmic balance, the person is learning to master their karma. Justice has a third eye.
The rope of detachment around her neck, the sword of divine justice in hand.
REVERSED : Loss of balance, karmic problem.
THE HERMIT
A shift in consciousness, an initiation: inner conflict, solitude, emotional or economic crisis well handled. Represents
someone who is a beacon for others and for himself: produces his own light. Holds the staff of power, a very patient magician.
Symbol of immortality.
REVERSED : Inner conflict, badly handled crisis.
THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE
Master of ones destiny, one who listens to the inner voice to escape the wheel, like the crowned sphinx, who has integrated
the 4 elements/planes of existence. Implies a transformation due to the immense energies released by this work on oneself.
Destiny will act favorably. Creating ones own reality. Change.
REVERSED: Refusal to take charge of life, misfortune resulting.
STRENGTH
A miracle which will bring salvation, removing a problem that seemed unsolvable. The need to control ones energies, and
an unexpected solution appears. The concept of infinity (hat in shape of an 8, like the Juggler). Can suggest the mother-in-
law. Mastery of the personality by ones higher self. Health and vigor.
REVERSED : Not open to a miracle. The personality gets the upper hand. Weakness.
THE HANGED MAN
Immobility well handled, a waiting period, stop, internalisation, meditation to master the strength that has just appeared. Cut
off from the energies of the zodiac (the 12 cut branches). Illusion of attachment, but can free himself. Sees the world upside
down. Trapped in matter. Laziness. Masochism. Unemployment.
REVERSED : Blockage badly handled, powerlessness, depression.
THE ARCANUM WITHOUT A NAME
Transformation handled well. Symbol of fear, of oneself and of life, represents also negative energies, someone who is very
nervous, a castrator. The lesser guardian of the heavenly world, do ncessit de se parfaire pour pouvoir laffronter.
Destructive power. The unconscious at work.
REVERSED : Illness, transformation handled poorly, obscurantism.
TEMPERANCE
The beyond, the world of angels, the unknown. Healing (2 serpents: caduceus), economy, avoiding waste, patience of an
angel. It is the card of travel through space-time. Someone who wants to help those who suffer. Invisible support. Caractre
modr, calme. Concentration. Attention to detail. Doctor.
REVERSED : Problem of impatience, economy, refusing help.
THE DEVIL
Represents mental illusion, lies. Wants to sell us what we already possess. Concept of attachment, animal nature. The
greater guardian of the heavenly world, just before entering the House of God. A tyrant. Sadist. Self-assertion.
REVERSED : Temptation, bad intentions, excessive manipulation.
THE HOUSE OF GOD
The word God appears. If one obeys God, then: Abundance (money falls from the sky). Unbelievable opportunities, joy, the
house of the father. Illumination, using ones gifts. Through ordeals, life makes us accept its gifts. Monastery. House.
REVERSED : Pride (Tower of Babel), unwilling to accept abundance and God, problem with the fathers household
THE STAR
Represents humility, the naked truth, from which fertility and prosperity result. The landscape suggests harmony, the Garden
of Eden. It is necessary to become nothing and to kneel in order to receive the energies of the stars: The gift of water, the
gift of life. Generosity. Pregnancy.
REVERSED : Refusal to be humble, to kneel. Problem with pride, with fertility
THE SUN
Symbol of brotherhood : Two people who represent the personality and the higher self reunited. Communication among
human beings, friends, happiness, construction : Idea of joining in a ? dans un projet chaleureux. Mutual cooperation. The
sun shines. A favorable card.
REVERSED : Problem of communication with others, refusal to build, of fraternity.
THE MOON
Refers to the world of the emotions, its mirages and animal nature. Here, it is necessary to control emotions and their
attraction for material things, so that a superior state linked to intuition can appear. This card is linked to the imagination, the
past. The mother. House of the mother. Clairvoyance.
REVERSED : Disputes. Problems with emotions, the mother, the past
JUDGMENT
Revelation of something hidden. New life, good news, healing, resurrection, birth. Represents the family. Refers to prayer,
to communication with the celestial world. A transcendental, omniscient state of consciousness. Very favorable card.
REVERSED : Refusal to heal, to hear what one is being told, of a new life
THE WORLD
Total fulfillment and success, on all levels. Quintessence. Others put themselves at our service to help. The entire universe
conspires to help. A portal to an infinity of possibilities. Cosmic consciousness. Vision. The 4 directions. Travel. This
symbolism is found in the cathedrals.
REVERSED : Refusal to be fulfilled, to travel

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MAJOR ARCANA INDEX

0 The Fool Correspondences:

I The Magician Correspondences:

II The High Priestess Correspondences:

III The Empress Correspondences:

IV The Emperor Correspondences:

V The Hierophant Correspondences:

VI The Lovers Correspondences:

VII The Chariot Correspondences:

VIII Strength Correspondences:

IX The Hermit Correspondences:

Wheel of Fortune Correspondences:

XII The Hanging Man Correspondences:

XIII Death Correspondences:

XIV Temperance Correspondences:

Temperance Tarot Card Combinations:

XV The Devil Correspondences:

XVI The Tower Correspondences:

XVII The Star Correspondences:

XVIII The Moon Correspondences:

XXI The World Correspondences:

MINOR ARCANA INDEX

If reversed or ill-dignified, resuming activities usually following delays.

If reversed, danger averted, advice that cant be trusted, or possibly arguments.

If reversed, overcoming fears, releasing obstacles, breaking free.

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