TdM 3-Card Readings

[Flaxen]

Some years ago on AT we had a little group who would take turns posting 3 cards from a TdM or other historical deck together with a question.

 

The person posting the cards would interpret them first and then other people would chime in with their takes. The beauty was that any method was welcomed as it was useful to see how messages were similar or different.

 

The original thread can be viewed here:

http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=165217

 

I’d really love to do it again. Would anyone else like to join me? [emoji4]

[Penthasilia]

Yes!

 

Caveat- I am going to be at the beach starting this weekend on vacation- but happy to do it as soon as I come back.

 

:)

[Guest TheTarotRaven]

This seems really fun and I'd like to see it made possible once again!

[Flaxen]

Brilliant! I’ll start us off tomorrow.

 

Penthasilia, have a lovely time and see you when you get back. [emoji4]

[Guest TheTarotRaven]

Awesome! I'm super excited

Brilliant! I’ll start us off tomorrow.

 

Penthasilia, have a lovely time and see you when you get back. [emoji4]

[Flaxen]

Here is the first spread to interpret. I will post the question and image first and add my own interpretation in a separate post.

 

Context: I’m thinking of buying another flute. It will be in another key so will have a different sound and help me improve my skills. However, it is expensive.

 

Should I buy myself another flute?

 

[Flaxen]

My interpretation:

Hermit, Ace of Swords, Ten of Batons

 

The first thing which strikes me is that the Hermit is facing away from the other two cards. He is striking a path alone to do some thinking. It could be a literal walking away from the idea.

 

The Ace of Swords shows a single-minded thought. There is a crown of victory and the ‘drops’ remind me a little of musical notes. This is a fine offering and seems to be to represent the flute itself.

 

Moving to the Ten of Batons we have an increase in number. The appeal to grow the collection is strong. However, this card feels hemmed in, restricted. It’s a rigid construction with not much room for growth. The leaves are having to squeeze out the sides. This suggests to me that, at this time, the flute will not add to my creativity but will feel restrictive. A higher level of skill may be needed.

 

The Hermit is sometimes linked with Time or Prudence. The overall message seems to be that, while the flute is a beautifully crafted object, it is not the right time to purchase it. Best to walk away for now.

[Penthasilia]

Great interpretation on those cards- I like the way you read with them and I do see exactly what you are seeing in both the Hermit looking away as well as the pips.

 

I read mine a bit differently.

 

Hermit/Ace Swords/10 Swords

 

Hermit- the idea of time or, alternatively, illumination/wisdom that comes with the idea of age/aging

 

Ace Swords- representing either the Magician (1) or Strength (11) as an ace with the idea of thought forms and ideas. If you consider the role of the magician/juggler as someone who is a performer, even the thought of street performance- this makes sense considering the idea of the musical instrument. Strength- as a counterpart, is more internal- so consider what other options you have for your creative energies should you choose not to take the expense.

 

10 of Swords- representing either the Wheel (10) or Judgment (20) as a ten with the idea of thought forms and ideas. The Wheel- changes in fortune- perhaps you will have unexpected money come your way, but would be more inclined to see this as a decrease in fortune after your money spent. One thing I love about TdM is that they can be very literal in that regard. Judgment- is this something you are being called to do or just a passing desire? With the previous cards, I would be more inclined to think it is something in passing. Or perhaps a message to use sound judgement when making your decision.

 

So- I get the same sense that you do- it would not be in your best interest. The timing is off (hermit), you would like to have it to perform (magician) but can find other ways to show your creative talents with the tools you already have (strength) and it will cause a loss of money (wheel/fortune) and is likely not something that is a deep calling but rather a want versus a need (judgement).

[Flaxen]

 

I love the way you have linked back to the Magician to pick up the performance aspect!  That is a really good fit for this reading.

 

The Wheel of Fortune as a decrease also makes total sense here. It would definitely leave me a bit worse off for a while and there are other things I should spend money on really. Here’s hoping the Wheel turns back in my direction and gives me an upswing. [emoji3]

I think it is just a passing desire at the moment - although a strong one. I don’t need it at the moment - I have a perfectly good flute to practise with.

 

Your summary is spot on. Interesting that even with our different styles we have picked up the same basic message.

[Flaxen]

Did you want to put up a question and 3-card draw next, Penthasilia?

[Penthasilia]

I can go- I leave very early tomorrow- so may not respond depending on timing and such as I will be at the beach and won't be on for a few days.

 

Here was my question- should I choose the I for my apartment when I move?

 

Cards are posted below- but had the Popess (HP), King of Coins, King of Swords

 

First thoughts- ARGGGGG- WHY 2 COURT CARDS. I may hate that, just saying.

 

OK- back to the basics.

 

With the Popess I am seeing the receptive idea of it. There is a dreamy quality to it but one that hasn't been brought into manifestation yet- still in the beginning process. Which makes sense as it is my first choice from a wish perspective.

 

The King of Coins is facing away from the Popess and toward the King of Swords- I see this as the masculine message from the coins. There is a sense of abundance and security. This one has me split- in some ways I can see it facing away from the Popess in terms of looking forward and knowing I would have the financial backing to afford this location. But another take on it was that it is facing away from her because this may not be the best financially as it is the most expensive of all the places I am looking at.

 

The King of Swords is facing away from both of them. This is the highest masculine perspective of air and intellect and basically is head over heart. This one is so similar in coloration to the Popess- I literally see is as the head, with her being the heart. Which leaves the King of Coins in the center- as the middle ground. The one that can go either way- depending on the balance between financial needs and need for security and the amenities (luxury) that this place will offer.

 

One final way of looking at it- when you look at the coloration of the Popess card itself- you can see that card is split too. The left half is colored like the King of Coins where the right side is colored similarly to the King of Swords. So it is almost like I am the Popess and the two kings are defining the two separate pieces that I am juggling.

 

I am not getting a clear answer with this one. I think it is something that could go either way. Yes I can afford it, I just wouldn't be able to save/pay off as quickly as I had originally wanted because the rent would be higher than the others I will look at. But the luxury and beauty of the place may make up for that- because overall the goal is to find home.

 

Any input is appreciated. I am posting the pic below- but you know this deck as you just received yours- so you can take a look yourself to see what I mean about the colors as the pic doesn't show it as well as real life.

[Flaxen]

I haven’t read your interpretation yet as I wanted to come at this with fresh eyes.

 

This is an interesting spread - they are all people cards! This is the first thing that strikes me. Then I notice that they are not looking at each other. You have two ‘bookends’.

 

The High Priestess look very contemplative as she consults her book. It reminds me of the mundane act of choosing items from a brochure or catalogue. This seems to capture you in your current state. Trying to weigh up options and see what ‘feels’ best from an intuitive point of view.

 

The King of Pentacles is a slow energy. He faces away from you so his offer is not completely tangible yet - more like a wish you hope can be made real. He walks to the future where he becomes the King of Swords and his coin becomes a sword. This energy is fast-acting and calls for swiftness in decision making. The background also moves from a richness to something more minimalist. The choice between something with all the comforts and something more functional.

 

The advice seems to be that you can make this choice but don’t take too long over it. Don’t spend ages creating an inventory which is full of comforts and instead focus on the essentials. A more minimalist approach would be best at this time. Don’t spend too much coin. Think about what the essentials are to make you happy.

 

 

[Flaxen]

Now have I have read your take. [emoji3]

 

It definitely seems to be something where you have a choice and you interpreted the luxury item more positively than me!

 

I’m afraid that my input may not have helped your decision making!

[Penthasilia]

Thanks- your input DID help. I decided to fly down a week earlier than originally planned so that I can take advantage of the special they are running in case I decide to take it.

 

But yes- all 3 people cards, I had a bit of an ARGGGG- moment on that one.

 

I love your interpretation of the two kings- and can totally see that- one being slow moving and pondering the financials and the other saying "act quickly and decisively". This is going to be one that if it is open, available and the special is going, I will likely have to jump quickly.

 

Thanks so much again. Just back from the beach and so wanted to check in!

[Flaxen]

I’m glad it helped. [emoji3] It’s a lovely deck and easy to read.

[Flaxen]

Time for another question! This is related to a project at work I’m responsible for.

 

How can I help ensure the project runs smoothly? 10 of Cups - 4 of Coins - Le Pendu

 

[Flaxen]

My interpretation:

10 of Cups - 4 of Coins - Le Pendu

 

The first card is the Cups which I see a a sociable, networking suit. There is a lightness and convivial nature to them. The Ten of Cups returns to the wholeness of the one. In this context, I can see it as me wanting the project to be crafted well and to run smoothly with others. Each cup is in place and two are slightly separated, surrounded by foliage. This suggests that close partnership with one person will be beneficial to ensure everyone knows what to do.

 

The Four of Coins is very stable and structured. The crest is displayed proudly in the centre. This is how I’d like it to be recognised - a stable system which is recognised as a growing enterprise.

 

Le Pendu suggest that to some extent my hands are tied and my freedom to make decision or take certain actions is constrained. There is much I would like to do with the project but the IT system cannot handle it currently.

 

Therefore to help it run smoothly, I need a close partnership with one person, ensure that the system is structured and predictable and take into account current constraints.

[skywatching]

Hi Flaxen

 

I really don't have that much to add to your interpretation other than when I look at these cards I see a lot of balance.

 

Everything, like the arrangement of the cups and pentacles on the cards is quite symmetrical and well balanced and even though Le Pendu's head is slightly crooked, he still seems to hang in perfect balance.

 

So perhaps there might be some kinks in your plans that you may need to straighten out to keep everything within that well balanced structure that seems to be meticulously set up.

 

Good luck with your project  :)

[Penthasilia]

Time for another question! This is related to a project at work I’m responsible for.

 

How can I help ensure the project runs smoothly? 10 of Cups - 4 of Coins - Le Pendu

 

 

I agree with the balance piece as listed above. Here is my bit on it- sorry, my thoughts seem a bit loose tonight- but this is the best flow for me at the moment and just putting here what pops into my head.

 

10 of cups- representing either the Wheel (10) or Judgment (20) as a ten with the idea of emotions and relationships. The Wheel- changes- in light of the idea of cups being emotions, relationships- it almost feels as if you have reached an ending point. I have a feeling that you may feel the Wheel is spinning on its own versus you having the control to spin it with this.  Judgment would dictate otherwise- that you do have more control over this situation than would appear. Is this project nearing its end? Because the 10's also denote an ending of a cycle in general, completion within the work and that pause before starting something new. Is this project soon coming to a close without further intervention? Or is it that you feel you have maximized the amount you can do with it? Because if it is the latter- I think there is more than potentially meets the eye. An idea that you have not yet put into being.

 

Elias- With the hearts we drink with friends and family. Summer and water. An idea needs to feel good, to flow and be shared. Hearts are inside the body and enable the blood to circulate. With the heart we live and feel. Hearts represent the circulatory system.

 

4 of coins- representing either the Emperor (4) or Temperance (14) as a four with the idea of money and resources. With the Emperor- this is all about stability- almost as if you are not necessarily looking to rock the boat of the security of your position within this project. But the idea of Temperance is stating that there can be a balance should you care to bring in an element that is not something of the norm (which I am getting from the last card). I have a feeling that this is a very important theme in the reading- the idea of the balance between the stability of the four with the instability of Le Pendu.

 

Elias- With diamonds we cut deals. Spring and fire. A fresh idea is a hot idea. Diamonds are chiseled for exchange and culture. We hold diamonds in our hands. They denote working with the head. Diamonds represent the nervous system

 

Le Pendu- this is an interesting take on that card and so it causes me to pause and wonder. The fact that his head is bent at that odd angle versus just dangling as seen in so many makes me wonder if perhaps you have more power than you think over the IT system- or maybe it is just an idea that you could potentially put forth and make work- something that is perhaps new for the system but is able to be managed. Stretching the confines of the current barriers somewhat- yes. But not taking it too far so that it absolutely isn't heard is the key. I think there is an idea that you have that is able to be brought to fruition- you are not as bound as you may think. Perhaps the person that you need to make a partnership with is someone within the IT department that can help manage this?

 

I don't know if any of that makes sense- but I get a strong feeling that the project can technically end well with no major hiccups by you just maintaining the status quo. But if you want to make it something bigger by bringing in a new idea that was previously thought to be undoable- you will take this from being something good to being something great.

[Flaxen]

Everything, like the arrangement of the cups and pentacles on the cards is quite symmetrical and well balanced and even though Le Pendu's head is slightly crooked, he still seems to hang in perfect balance.

 

So perhaps there might be some kinks in your plans that you may need to straighten out to keep everything within that well balanced structure that seems to be meticulously set up.

 

Thank you for your thoughts, skywatching. Yes, it does seem very balanced apart from that strangely crooked head. I like the idea that he is a kink to be straightened out. [emoji4]

 

[Flaxen]

10 of cups- representing either the Wheel (10) or Judgment (20) as a ten with the idea of emotions and relationships. The Wheel- changes- in light of the idea of cups being emotions, relationships- it almost feels as if you have reached an ending point. I have a feeling that you may feel the Wheel is spinning on its own versus you having the control to spin it with this.  Judgment would dictate otherwise- that you do have more control over this situation than would appear. Is this project nearing its end? Because the 10's also denote an ending of a cycle in general, completion within the work and that pause before starting something new. Is this project soon coming to a close without further intervention? Or is it that you feel you have maximized the amount you can do with it? Because if it is the latter- I think there is more than potentially meets the eye. An idea that you have not yet put into being.

 

Elias- With the hearts we drink with friends and family. Summer and water. An idea needs to feel good, to flow and be shared. Hearts are inside the body and enable the blood to circulate. With the heart we live and feel. Hearts represent the circulatory system.

 

Good shout with the link to the Wheel! The project is cyclical in nature as it follows the academic year. In effect, I start again each September. I also have the natural highs and lows of holidays and peak times to deal with.  So I have just reached the end of one stage and the cycle is about to begin again.

 

The Wheel spinning out of control also makes sense as there are elements I have no real control over as it’s delegated to other teams. I like the idea that I may have more control than I think!

 

4 of coins- representing either the Emperor (4) or Temperance (14) as a four with the idea of money and resources. With the Emperor- this is all about stability- almost as if you are not necessarily looking to rock the boat of the security of your position within this project. But the idea of Temperance is stating that there can be a balance should you care to bring in an element that is not something of the norm (which I am getting from the last card). I have a feeling that this is a very important theme in the reading- the idea of the balance between the stability of the four with the instability of Le Pendu.

 

Elias- With diamonds we cut deals. Spring and fire. A fresh idea is a hot idea. Diamonds are chiseled for exchange and culture. We hold diamonds in our hands. They denote working with the head. Diamonds represent the nervous system.

 

This is an interesting idea. Bringing in a different element is something to consider. This will be my first full cycle with the project as I joined halfway through last year. I’ve pretty much had to run with what was set up before but I’m hoping I can tweak things this time round to make it more stable!

 

Le Pendu- this is an interesting take on that card and so it causes me to pause and wonder. The fact that his head is bent at that odd angle versus just dangling as seen in so many makes me wonder if perhaps you have more power than you think over the IT system- or maybe it is just an idea that you could potentially put forth and make work- something that is perhaps new for the system but is able to be managed. Stretching the confines of the current barriers somewhat- yes. But not taking it too far so that it absolutely isn't heard is the key. I think there is an idea that you have that is able to be brought to fruition- you are not as bound as you may think. Perhaps the person that you need to make a partnership with is someone within the IT department that can help manage this?

 

The key person in the IT department who led this project has just left and so far a replacement hasn’t been named. I’ve got quite a few ideas of things which could work better so perhaps I’ll run them by the new person. Sometimes new people are more receptive to ideas. [emoji3]

 

I don't know if any of that makes sense- but I get a strong feeling that the project can technically end well with no major hiccups by you just maintaining the status quo. But if you want to make it something bigger by bringing in a new idea that was previously thought to be undoable- you will take this from being something good to being something great.

 

Thank you for your take, Penthasilia. It’s opened up further avenues of exploration and gives me a bit more confidence that things can be changed.

 

I like your references to Elias - how are you finding her book?

[Penthasilia]

It is like reading Crowley in some ways- you need a glass of wine and to be in a certain space to get it. But I do like it a great deal- she adds something more to the picture than you get with the other books. I also really like her website.

 

Glad that the interpretation could help out- I definitely see you being able to bring in something new to the project and look forward to hearing how it works out!  :)

[Flaxen]

It is like reading Crowley in some ways- you need a glass of wine and to be in a certain space to get it. But I do like it a great deal- she adds something more to the picture than you get with the other books. I also really like her website.

 

I really like her website too and have her first book Marseille Tarot: Towards the Art of Reading. It really is like Crowley and the glass of wine definitely helps!

 

She does have an interesting approach though and I think was influenced by Enrique Enriquez. I like the ‘say what you see’ idea but do like to have a bit of structure behind it when I read for myself.

[Penthasilia]

Agreed- which is why I normally start with the numbered/suit portion just from a logical standpoint and then move into how the cards represent themselves for further clarity.

 

It is part of what makes having different decks so fun. :)

[Penthasilia]

I haven’t read your interpretation yet as I wanted to come at this with fresh eyes.

 

This is an interesting spread - they are all people cards! This is the first thing that strikes me. Then I notice that they are not looking at each other. You have two ‘bookends’.

 

The High Priestess look very contemplative as she consults her book. It reminds me of the mundane act of choosing items from a brochure or catalogue. This seems to capture you in your current state. Trying to weigh up options and see what ‘feels’ best from an intuitive point of view.

 

The King of Pentacles is a slow energy. He faces away from you so his offer is not completely tangible yet - more like a wish you hope can be made real. He walks to the future where he becomes the King of Swords and his coin becomes a sword. This energy is fast-acting and calls for swiftness in decision making. The background also moves from a richness to something more minimalist. The choice between something with all the comforts and something more functional.

 

The advice seems to be that you can make this choice but don’t take too long over it. Don’t spend ages creating an inventory which is full of comforts and instead focus on the essentials. A more minimalist approach would be best at this time. Don’t spend too much coin. Think about what the essentials are to make you happy.

 

I wanted to throw in an update as I went and looked. So- I apparently picked the perfect timing going a week early. There was a new special that just started for "I" that made it actually the more inexpensive option of the three that I was looking at, and I was there in just enough time to snag one of the remaining units on a better floor. So- both the kings looking in the same direction were key- the Popess being dreamy was me not looking forward and being caught in my own thoughts while the other two were pulling me in the right direction.

 

Definitely the people cards- they always mess with me. And people complain about pips!