Wands :
Keyword - Creativity.
Also called Rods, Batons or Staves.
Wands are the suite of passions and ideas, inventions, advancement, growth and progress. They represent the astrological sign of Fire - (passion).
This is the suite of labourers and workers. As such, in a reading it usually stands for the subjects ambition, career and creative endeavours.
The meanings expressed by the suite of Wands represent things which the subject will have to do as they move forward in their life, as they express their talents - i.e. they are cards of action.
Cups :
Keyword - Emotions.
This is the suite of emotions.
Cups represent the astrological sign of Water.
The cup is a symbol of pleasure and fulfilment, happiness and joy. Often they represent our love life, but also this suite represents the humane person in each of us.
In addition, Cup also represent psychic powers, visions and illusions.
Swords :
Keyword : Action.
This is the suite of leaders and warriors.
Swords represent the astrological sign of Air.
Swords represent ideas, courage, authority, aggression, boldness, force, strength, desire, and ambition.
A sword can be used for either attack or defence. Thus the scenarios represented by swords can therefore represent the subject either attacking or being attacked.
Represents thinking, speaking, problems and troubles. Live by the Sword, die by the Sword sums up many of the situations subjects get themselves into which are represented to Swords in their reading.
Pentacles :
Keyword - Wealth.
This is the suite of the physical, which includes the body as well as the material world of careers and wealth.
Pentacles represent the astrological sign of Earth.
Pentacles are best known for representing health and money, but they also represent anything to do with work, a job, a task, a craft.
These are the cards of fortune - both good and bad luck.
The Numbers :
Each suite is made up of the numbers 1 (Ace) to ten followed by four court cards - Page, Knight, Queen and King.
As a generalization the numbers refer to the person themselves, whilst the court cards represent outside influences and people who are influencing that person.
First the numbers. There is a general progression through the numbers within the meaning of the particular arena of the selected suite.
Within the suites of Wands, Cups and Pentacles, this progression is quite logical. The fly in the ointment is the suite of swords. for the suite of swords, more is definitely not better!
Aces :
Keyword - Beginning.
Aces are the root force of the suite. They are a new start. The Aces represent hopes, dreams and potential success. When following other cards in the story line they indicate creation or attainment.
Twos :
Keyword - Decision.
The twos represent a fork in the road. A decision has to be taken. Competing interests must be balanced. Harmony should be achieved.
Threes :
Keyword - Triangle.
The threes provide us with a triangle. Where the triangle is positive and supportive it is the strongest of all geometric structures. When it is negative and divisive, it becomes a wedge which separates and splits asunder.
Fours :
Keyword - Stability.
Fours represent stability. For a moment, everything is still, solid, rooted, established. This can be positive, a solid foundation. When negative, fours represent something that refuses to budge or change.
Fives :
Keyword - Problem.
The fives invariably pose a problem to be solved. They reflect instability entering the persons life and as such they often raise more questions than answers. Advice or help for the subject is often called for to move them forward. Five is also the number of the Hierophant - the adviser. An upset in the persons life seems inevitable.
Sixes :
Keyword - Solutions.
Where the fives suggested instability, the sixes represent actions, moving forward toward solutions and stability. Even the swords show a getting on with life.
Sevens :
Keyword - Effort.
Sevens relate to the Chariot, a card about finding and maintaining control and mastery over opposing forces.
The subject represented by the sevens is faced with various dilemmas, all of which he can overcome after effort or finding a solution to their problem. Eventual success is foretold.
Eights :
Keyword - Movement.
The eights are about moving, taking action - they are related to the Strength card. Movement, travel, brave decisions and hard work are called for.
Nines :
Keyword - Completion.
Nine is also the number of the Hermit - shining a light on the situation. The nines represent completion, good or bad, although the subject is not aware of it yet. In order, the Wands are not sure which way to go (although resolution is at hand), the cups and pentacles auger success, and swords mean the ending of the current phase of the persons life.
Tens :
Keyword - Finality.
As the aces represented the start of a venture, dream or idea, the tens represent its conclusion.
The wands auger completion with a last effort or help, the cups show success as do the pentacles. With Swords the situation is over - finished, dead and gone.
The Court Cards.
The court cards usually represent people other than the subject themselves. In most decks they consist or the Page, Knight, Queen and King. In some styles, notably the Crowley, the Page is the Princess, so that in these packs there are two male and two female court cards. The meanings however, are the same.
Court cards are outside influences or forces in the life of the subject. They may represent a lover or a partner, a boss or an assistant. They can show new opportunities and timely advice. On the negative side they can point to disruptive people and people to be avoided.
Pages :
Keyword - Message.
Invariably described as a young person, indicating new ideas or developments. The Page brings a message relating to the arena of the particular suite. The pages can also stand for children in the subjects life.
Knights :
Keyword - Mission.
The images of Knights are very much of a person on a mission. They suggest people involved in travel. The person is a mover and shaker influencing the life of the subject. Loyalty and trust (Knight like attributes) are associated with the Knights.
Queens :
Keyword - Wisdom.
The Queen is a person of wisdom and knowledge who can help the subject to move forward. The Queen can also counsel the subject to find and consult such a person. The Queen is a person who can put things into perspective.
Kings :
Keyword - Knowledge.
Many explanations actually start with the King because the King starts things off. This person is a motivator, an instigator of new projects. Planning, organizing, moving things forward, the King is the person to consult. Knowledge is power. Use this persons advice to your advantage.
O The Fool :
Symbols - Colourful clothing and carrying all his possessions and accompanied by a dog and carrying a flower, the fool or Jester is a traveller who is free to make his own choices.
On his shoulder he carries a staff to which is tied a bundle of previous experiences.
He is off to see the world, but knows not where.
Meaning - The Fool is seen to express innocence and optimism with scant regard for the present or for consequences.
Denotes positive inner forces which may influence an individual in their choices.
Reverse : Warns that the choice made is likely to be foolish.
If seen to be significant, the flower can be a reminder to stop and smell the flowers along the journey, and to be aware of the ramifications of his decisions, i.e. look before you leap.
I The Magician :
Symbols - Male figure, the infinity symbol over the figures head, a small wand, a table on which are a chalice, a pentacle, a staff (wand) and a sword, that is, all the suites (elements) of the tarot.
Meaning - The Magician represents the ability to translate ideas into action, to use skills, both practical, interpersonal and psychic to advantage.
In short, it is a card of self-confidence.
Reverse : Warns that the use of power or skills for destructive ends will attract bad luck.
Often I see this card as a reminder to the subject that they have the skills and abilities they need, so the time has come to put plans into action.
II The High Priestess :
Symbols - Wise woman enthroned, the moon, two pillars, two flowers, thoughtful contemplation.
Meaning - The High Priestess represents the spiritual feminine principles of knowingness, love and relationships. Wisdom, sound judgment, serenity, common sense and intuition.
Reverse : Indicates superficial qualities, ignorance, short-sightedness and selfishness. Poor judgment.
The High Priestess is the wise woman of long ago in whom insight and understanding of the world resided. In ancient times she was embodied as Isis - the universal mother.
III The Empress :
Symbols - A gown decorated with pomegranates, a crown of stars, a rod, (the sceptre of authority), a heart-shaped shield with the symbol for Venus, a field of ripe grain or fruit.
Meaning -The Empress represents fertility of both body and mind, a bountiful harvest and good luck.
Reverse : Indicates lack of interest, inaction, indecision, possessiveness, jealousy, disruption.
The Empress is a creator, whether it is creation of life, of romance, of art or business. This card can represent the gestation of an idea or the bringing to reality of a project by fostering and nurturing it.
IV The Emperor :
Symbols - Throne, ram's heads, orb and sceptre.
Meaning - Authority, control, confidence, accomplishment. One who is master of his emotions, who is able to realize his ideas.
Reverse - Immaturity, tendency to be gullible, weakness of character.
This is the guy in charge! The emperor represents the authority to make things happen. Take control of your affairs.
V The Hierophant
Symbols - Triple crown, Twin pillars, 3 tiered staff, throne, hand raised in blessing, two acolytes, two crossed keys).
Meaning - Papal figure who holds the keys to the kingdom. The hierophant counsels rising above worldly concerns to release creative powers through the divine.
Reverse - Foolish over-generosity, vulnerability, openness to new ideas.
In order to move forward one must overcome or put aside fears or stubbornness and see the larger picture. Stop putting things off!
VI The Lovers :
Symbols - Male and Female figures, in the deck shown it is the classic Adam and Eve.
Meaning - This card can refer to marriage and friendship, but has a wider meaning of the necessity of choice, which means responsibility. When all is in balance it reflects beauty and inner harmony.
Reverse -Quarrels, separation, frustration,
Trust you instincts, to choose this challenge, person, or career path. Decide and go for it!
VII The Chariot :
Symbols - A crowned conqueror rides in a chariot drawn by two sphinxes/lions/horses representing positive and negative forces.
Meaning - Control over tension of opposites. A struggle, and an eventual, hard-won victory. It can mean a union of opposites.
Reverse - Failure in carrying out a project, defeat. Not facing reality.
A difficult card to interpret. Eventual triumph over all difficulties through perseverance. Movement forward is indicated. Hang in there!
VIII Strength :
Symbols - A woman dominant over a lions head, holding its jowls with her hands as it rests in her control.
Meaning - Strength, courage, determination. Mind over matter. Confidence.
Reverse - Weakness, impotency, sickness. Lack of faith.
The important message of the strength card is not to give up. To have the courage to keep at it till you succeed and to have the faith and optimism that you will succeed. This card is able to offset any negatives in surrounding cards.
IX The Hermit :
Symbols - An elderly bearded man wearing a habit holds a lantern in his right hand. The lantern represents occult knowledge.
Meaning - Withdrawal, meditation on the meaning of life. tendency to withhold emotion. Fear of discovery.
Reverse : Denotes an inability to mature and deepen ones wisdom.
Predicts a meeting with one who will counsel the seeker or inspire them and show the way. be willing to take good advice when it is given. Don't be stubborn.
X The Wheel of Fortune :
Symbols - A wheel turning clockwise with rising/falling figures or beasts on or by it. Waite also includes Hebrew letters I H V H (Jehovah) and alchemical symbols. There is a sphinx perched atop the wheel.
Meaning - Destiny. Fortune, fate. Approaching the end of a problem. Movement, advancement.
Reverse - The quality of your involvement will be your reward.
This card can mean movement, change/evolution. Change will seem to come out of the blue, a stroke of good, unexpected luck. One must find the still centre for tranquillity. A card of Karma.
XI Justice :
Symbols - A crowned woman holds the scales of justice and a heavy double edged sword. In some decks she is blindfolded.
Meaning - Fairness, balance, justice. Sense of proportion in one's self and life.
Reversed - Bias. False accusations, injustice, lack of balance.
This card means we are held accountable for our actions. This applies to the material/physical/ethical world. Its spiritual equivalent is the (XX) Judgment card.
XII The Hanged Man :
Symbols -A man hanging by one foot from a Tau cross. His free leg is always bent to form a "4," his face is always peaceful, never suffering. His hands are secured behind his back.
Meaning -This is a time of trial or meditation, selflessness, sacrifice, prophecy.
Reverse - Failure to give of ones self. Egotistical approach.
This card can also imply a time when everything just stands still, a time of rest and reflection before moving on.
XII Death :
Symbols -Skeletal Death, black robes or armour, sometimes with a scythe or a flag featuring a white rose on a desolate black field. There is often a rising sun.
Meaning -Transformation. Clearing away the old to make way for the new.
Reverse -Stagnation, immobility, lethargy. Narrowly avoiding a serious accident.
Great change in ones life. New beginnings.
XIV Temperance :
Symbols - An angel, a pool or river of water. Two cups or beakers, a fluid flowing between them.
Meaning - Moderation, temperance, frugality, harmony. Accomplishment through self-control. Fortunate omen. Successful combination of elements (or people).
Reverse - Discord, disunion, conflict of interest.
Finding balance as an individual. Sovereignty in ones life.
XV The Devil :
Symbols - A winged, horned devil, a black pedestal, a naked male and female figure, chains, inverted pentagram.
Meaning -Subordination, subservience, downfall. Lack of success. Bad outside influence of advice. Self destruction.
Reverse - Possibility of spiritual understanding. Throwing off the shackles. Release.
Material emphasis to the detriment of others. Lack of essential humanity. Beware of a destructive force.
XVI The Tower :
Symbols - A tower on a rocky outcropping, a powerful bolt of lightning, one or two figures falling from the tower, sometimes waves crashing below.
Meaning - Complete and sudden change. Severing of a friendship. Changing of beliefs, opinions. Disruption, unexpected events.
Reverse - Entrapment in an unhappy situation. Following old ways.
This is not a tarot readers favourite card to get in a reading. The subject is going to have their style of life and way of thinking disrupted, which they will see as a catastrophe. The disruption may be followed by enlightenment. Clearing away the old to make way for the new.
XVII The Star :
Symbols - Seven or eight stars, a kneeling woman, a pool of water, two urns.
Meaning - Hope, faith, inspiration. Mixing the past and present. Promising opportunity. Good health.
Reverse - Illness, unfulfilled hopes, bad luck.
In contrast to the previous card, this is a card of inspiration. The subject should be able to see their way forward past old obstacles.
XVIII The Moon :
Symbols - A full moon (with a crescent within), twin pillars, two dogs/wolves howling, a stream that runs to the ocean, a crayfish emerging out of the water.
Meaning -Deception, obscurity, disillusionment, caution. Bad influence.
Reverse - Peace will come after a difficult period.
A yearning for fulfilment, but unforeseen perils, threatening situations. Psychic forces may be at work. This very much a cautionary card for the subject to take great care during the period represented by this card.
XIX The Sun :
Symbols - The Sun, one or two naked children (a naked little boy, sometimes riding a white pony or a boy & a girl), sunflowers, often a wall, sometimes a banner.
Meaning - Satisfaction, accomplishment, contentment, success, achievement.
Reverse -Uncertainty of future plans, loss of something of value.
A very positive card. Contentment, attainment of personal goals. Happy marriage.
XX Judgment :
Symbols - Angel, trumpets, graves with people rising from them, often water or an ocean.
Meaning -The need to repent and forgive. Atonement, rebirth, development, promotion.
Reverse - Delay, disappointment. Health warnings.
Growing awareness’s. I often see this as a card of spiritual growth - shift in personal consciousness, a growing of personal awareness. Its material/ethical equivalent is the (XI) Justice card.
XXI The World :
Symbols -A clothed woman stands within an oval wreath. She holds a thin wand. The four corners have symbols of the apocalypse - an angel, an eagle, a bull and a lion - guardians of the truth.
Meaning - Attachment, completion, perfection. The end result of all efforts - success.
Reverse - Fear of change, failure to complete venture. Lack of vision.
Reward, completion. I often 'see' travel associated with this card.
Ace of Cups :
Symbols -Four streams of water spring from a cup and pour into a pool with water lilies. The cup is supported by a hand emerging from a cloud and a white dove is placing a wafer in the cup.