What [if any] Tarot Cards show Loyalty?

[Misterei]

In Lenormand, we have the Dog to show loyalty. Anchor can also show steadfast which is similar.

 

In Tarot we have cards that show betrayal. 10 Swords is the obvious and extreme example.

The older versions of Hanged Man reference the punishment for betrayal in Renaissance Italy and thus show disloyalty.

Moon, a negative Magician, Devil might all touch upon manipulation and betrayal. False friends.

But what cards illustrate LOYALTY itself?

 

2 cups shows lovers pledging vows. So that illustrates loyalty. In modern times, it's generally limited to romantic, and less global.

Older Tarocchi decks might show Lovers pledging vows, but this meaning has been lost from TdM onward. Modern Lovers is choices or romance depending on your style.

Perhaps we might say a positive SUN shows honoring a contract. This is part of Loyalty. Positive Priestess will keep a secret and not gossip. Heirophant will follow the rules to do what's right in society's eyes. Strength might show moral fibre. A positive Emperor would do battle for or alongside you.

But none of these specifically show Loyalty the way Lenormand Dog does.

 

Thoughts? Which Tarots illustrate loyalty for you? Do we need a card for Loyalty or is it enough to know when one is being betrayed?

Edited June 29, 2024 by Misterei

[DanielJUK]

I've moved this thread to the Card Meanings section

 

The Fool - has a little loyal white dog with the guy

6 of Cups, there is a loyalty in that sweet nostalgia of the card

Pentacles cards have loyalty, especially the 10 of Pentacles and the Court Cards, Knight and King. Their relationship is loyal and committed.

[November]

If we think about Knights historically they were/had to be loyal to their kings/lords/masters till death, so maybe we can interpret these cards in that way. 

[SamiHirvikallio]

Yes, there are several tarot cards that can represent the concept of loyalty, each bringing a unique perspective based on their traditional meanings and symbolism. Here are a few key cards often associated with loyalty:

Major Arcana

1. The Hierophant

   • Meaning: The Hierophant represents tradition, faith, and commitment to established systems or beliefs. It can symbolize loyalty to a group, community, or spiritual path.
   • Interpretation: In readings, The Hierophant often indicates a strong sense of duty and adherence to traditional values, suggesting loyalty to one's principles or an institution.

2. The Lovers

   • Meaning: This card is about relationships and choices, often symbolizing deep bonds and commitments between individuals.
   • Interpretation: In the context of loyalty, The Lovers can signify a profound, loyal connection in romantic relationships or a significant partnership.

Minor Arcana

3. Two of Cups

   • Meaning: The Two of Cups represents mutual love, partnership, and emotional bonds.
   • Interpretation: It often signifies a loyal and harmonious relationship where both parties are equally committed to one another.

4. Six of Cups

   • Meaning: This card evokes nostalgia, childhood memories, and the kindness of the past.
   • Interpretation: It can represent loyal friendships and longstanding bonds that have stood the test of time.

5. Ten of Pentacles

   • Meaning: The Ten of Pentacles signifies legacy, family, and long-term success.
   • Interpretation: It suggests loyalty to family and the idea of building something enduring and stable, often pointing to generational loyalty and commitment.

6. Knight of Pentacles

   • Meaning: The Knight of Pentacles is diligent, responsible, and reliable.
   • Interpretation: This card represents steadfastness and loyalty, showing someone who is committed to their duties and obligations with unwavering loyalty.

Interpretation in Readings

When these cards appear in a reading, they can be interpreted as signs of loyalty, commitment, and steadfast relationships. The specific context of the reading and the position of the cards will provide further nuance and depth to their meanings.

Incorporating these cards into your tarot practice can help you explore themes of loyalty, whether you are looking for insights into relationships, career, or personal values. Each card offers a different perspective on what it means to be loyal and committed, enriching your understanding of this important quality.

[Misterei]

14 hours ago, SamiHirvikallio said:

1. The Hierophant...It can symbolize loyalty to a group, community, or spiritual path.

Interesting take. I was wrestling with the question of loyalty in certain personal relationships for the past few months and Hierophant card often appeared in my readings. I didn't associate it with loyalty at that time as the readings were on various different topics ... but this hits. Cards will often answer a question I *didn't* ask too.

[SilverFox]

“Loyalty cards” in my personal tarot paradigm:

 

#6 Love / Lovers (conclusion of an alliance / oath of fealty)

#8 Justice (loyalty to the letter of the law)

#17 The Star (deep spiritual commitment to what we doing)

 

Ace of Swords (attachment to the principles / commitment to the principles of universal brotherhood and sisterhood)

2 of Cups (deep relationship / “soul mate”)

4 of Coins (commitment to the tradition / devotion to the Motherland).

[Ferrea]

I never asked the cards about loyalty, but I thought several times that the 8 of Cups in reverse would indicate this.

One aspect of loyalty (in contrast to truthfulness, for example) is the notion of sticking with someone even though their behavior might not match our values entirely.
Standing by someone for a good reason, not because it's emotionally satisfactory, is very Saturnian in fact.

So, I see the red-cloaked person coming right back because their conscience is stronger, or weighs more, than their frustration.

[Ix Chel]

The Pentacles court are in mine opnion loyal. I think that the Knight of Pentacles is the most loyal of all.