sixdegrees Posted January 25, 2020 Posted January 25, 2020 For the last year or so I've been studying Tarot de Marseille and building my particular system for reading the deck. In the process, I realized that I wanted to apply a similar kind of systematizing to my approach to the Rider Waite. I've been working with the Rider Waite almost exclusively since around 2004-2005, and in the ensuing time I've evolved a workable set of meanings and associations for each card. At the same time, in the last few years I've found my readings with the deck to be a bit...immaterial? Broad? In other words, my readings tend toward lots of vague discussions of change, internal qualities of character and such, but not always very useful information for the questions asked. In short, I feel stuck in a rut. So, I was hoping to use this space to think through a new system for the RWS. For the minors specifically, I want to think though plausible meanings for the cards based on examinations of commonalities between the pictures at each number (which is similar to my approach to the Tarot de Marseille). Sometimes these meanings resonate with traditional understandings of the cards, and sometimes they don't. Sometimes my proposed understanding of the number gels with well known strains numerology, and sometimes it doesn't. In fact, it is my frustrations with existing numerological approaches to the RWS minors that has inspired the present work. For example, it baffles me that an author can say in the same breath that threes are about "growth" while the Three of Swords is "heartbreak," perhaps cobbling these together with some claim about "growth from heartbreak" when that's the last thing we feel in the moment of heartbreak. Instead, I want to work largely inductively, looking at the pictures and arriving at a meaning for the threes based on them alone. Please feel free to chime in with your own ideas and opinions of what I have to say here. I'm also fine if no one responds. I just want to have a more developed space to think though what I've been tapping out in the Notes app on my phone. 😄 To begin, some initial notes about how I see the suits: - Wands are essentially about AMBITIONS - Cups are about INTERACTIONS - Swords, controversially, are about EXPECTATIONS* - Pentacles are about RESOURCES, especially money and time. *A note on Swords: I got the association of Swords with "expectations" from Markus Katz and Tali Goodwin's book Tarot Flip--one of the few works by these two that I've found very useful (apologies for the backhanded compliment, but it's true). Tarot Flip will show up in other places in this discussion as well, since it's the only rigorously inductive study of the RWS I've found (Katz and Goodwin also claim ambition for wands and resources for pentacles, though I don't think that they can claim much originality in that). I've lately realized that the traditional associations of Swords with "thoughts" or "communication" often leads to less than useful statements in a reading, not to mention that "thought" seems ill equipped to explain some of the harsher imagery in the suit. Expectations, on the other hand, seem a bit more tangible. The Swords indicate the tendency for others to expect things from us, as well as our willingness (or not) to adhere to those expectations. They indicate our responsibilities to others, our duties within the world, our links to institutions. A sword seems like an apt symbol for such experiences, steeped as it is in the contexts of chivalry, ceremony, and warfare. We may have thoughts about the scenes depicted in any of the cards, but Swords point (ha!) to a specific kind of social experience that any adult can identify with: The experience of being required, of having demands placed on oneself. With this in mind, all of the Aces in the RWS appear to be pictures of RECEIVING. All of the cards depicts hands granting the suit object. They all might indicate being granted something from another person or perhaps, in a wider sense, by circumstance. The Ace of Wands, consequently, would indicate the RECEIVING of AMBITION. This phrase intersects nicely with the picture: A hand holding out a stick. I think of an excited dog having a stick waved in front of its face, whetting its appetite for a game of fetch. The card points to feelings of inspiration and excitement, and more tangibly, of discovering or otherwise happening upon a goal to achieve. The Ace of Cups indicates the RECEIVING of INTERACTION. Slightly awkward phrasing, I know, but it makes better sense in relation to the picture: A hand holding out a cup. I think of a friendly catch-up over a cup of coffee, or of someone buying another a drink at happy hour. The card thus points to behaviors where people extend sociality to others...all manners of chatting, advice, mentorship, support, and perhaps in a single word, assistance. The Ace of Swords indicates the RECEIVING of EXPECTATION. In thinking about situations where a fancy hand presents a fancy sword, I readily came upon the image of knighthood, and that seems to fit the phrase nicely. The card points to the assigning and taking up of new duties, and perhaps even receiving honors (which almost always come with increased responsibility). In another sense the card might more commonly indicate approval or praise, with the tendency to want to continue to please those who extend such pleasantries to us. The Ace of Pentacles indicates the RECEIVING of RESOURCES--perhaps the most sensible of the phrases thus far. The picture is intuitive to the meaning: A hand extending a coin. It would likely indicate receiving payment or any kind of gift. Importantly, it might also point to receiving more time to use in relation to the matter at hand (the pentacle, after all, does not look so different from a clock, and time may be our most important resource). Okay, that seems like a good start. I'm happy to think through additional keywords for any of the aces with others here (akin to the words I've put in italics). When I have the time I'll turn my attention to the Twos in a new post.
Rose Lalonde Posted January 25, 2020 Posted January 25, 2020 Your exercise makes sense to me. This suit and number distillation is something I've seen in RWS courses and is something I ask students to do in the mentorship section. I think I may have first seen it in Tarosophy, so the same authors. Anyway it makes us look closely at the art and ask ourselves what defines a suit as different than the others. And the same for numbers, four Aces, etc. I think how much frustration is involved has a lot to do with how consistent the deck creator was in applying structure when creating the art, and also how complex that structure was. As you know, the Waite-Smith deck is an interpretation of the Golden Dawn Society's structure of correspondences (mainly hermetic Qabalah, classical astrology, and alchemy), illustrated with scenes, and with an emphasis on Waite's interest in Christian Mysticism. The Thoth is another interpretation of the GD structure, but with a focus on Crowley's Thelema and Harris' style of projective synthetic geometry. -- I mention that just to say that the suits and numerology in all of those decks are based heavily on how the GD applied tarot to the Tree of Life. Take the 6s... they represent a sphere of balance and beauty in the middle of the Tree of Life, associated with the sun. Because of that, in the GD we get the card titles of Victory, Pleasure, Earned Success, and Material Success, and you can see that influence in the Thoth where every 6 is positive. So far, so good for choosing a keyword. But the RWS 6s don't all seem as positive. And in all of these decks the GD's astrological correspondences color the meaning. The 3 of Swords you mentioned is intended to correspond to the middle decan of Libra, ruled by Saturn, at the place of the threes on the Tree which also corresponds to Saturn; that double Saturn is a whole lot of symbolic weight, responsibility and restriction on the growth of the threes in this specific card, but not in the other threes. You may have no interest in the hermetic Qabalah and classical astrology. I'm not saying you should! You want to draw your conclusions by looking at the art alone, and I'm not trying to dissuade you from that. If the deck creators did their job, you should be able to lay out the cards and see in the art that there's something fundamentally different about the Wands than the Cups, and about the Aces than the Fives, because the GD, Waite and Crowley certainly intended there to be. And what's the point of the art if it's not communicating that. But because there was more than one set of correspondences driving the card meanings, it can get tricky to find one word that will completely capture the art on all four cards of one number, as you point out with the3s and the 3 of Swords. -- That said, I do think it's a terrific exercise to do, because it makes us question the art as you're doing here. And I have no problems with any of your choices. I look forward to seeing the rest of your keywords.
sixdegrees Posted January 27, 2020 Author Posted January 27, 2020 (edited) Thanks so much for replying, Rose. I agree with you in the wish that deck creators were more consistent in their representation of groupings within the tarot. On the other hand, I suppose that the muddling opens up more room for our own creativity. I look forward to your perspective on the remaining of these entries. Let's continue. All of the Twos in the RWS appear to be pictures of ORGANIZING. This concept is Katz and Goodwin's keyword for the number, but depending on the circumstance, words that might equally capture this core behavior include CHOOSING or SORTING. All of the cards depict a figure in the process of arranging and ordering the quality of the suit. The Two of Wands indicates the ORGANIZING of AMBITIONS. It depicts a lord surveying his property, looking beyond the wall that currently fences him in. Given what he has accomplished thus far, what next? The image conjures up ideas of contemplation and planning, both necessary behaviors if one wants to achieve a goal. To some extent it may also signify selecting one course of action over another, a kind of crossroads where one has to decide which desire to pursue. A step in one direction is, after all, two steps away from another. (I once read that on a Magic the Gathering card.) The Two of Cups indicates the ORGANIZING of INTERACTIONS. In it we see two individuals meeting and trading cups, or at least engaging in a bit of conversation. The card points to all manner of negotiation between parties, especially debating over what is appropriate in terms of the interaction moving forward. More broadly it can signify meetings, appointments, and other interactions that require purposeful organization. It believe that it can also fairly indicate emphasizing some interactions over others, and especially favoring some individuals over others (thus a traditional meaning of the card, "love"). The Two of Swords indicates the ORGANIZING of EXPECTATIONS. The image is famously enigmatic. Sometimes I see in it a person dispassionately sorting between left and right, which could signify sorting elements into all sorts of dualities: Right and wrong, important and unimportant, things to do now and things to do later. More often, however, I see someone clearly torn between requirements. In this case the figure cannot seem to choose left or right, and the blindfold signals neutrality to either option. This second perspective resonates all too commonly with the suit's sphere of life, unfortunately. Anyone who has grappled with fulfilling multiple social expectations at the same time knows that they typically demand equal importance and attention (even if they do not actually share such qualities upon reflection). Faced between finishing an important project at work or attending a friend's birthday party, there is not a clearly correct option--adhering to either choice is probably going to cause a sense of guilt for slighting the other. As a result, while the card can point to the process of ranking tasks or responsibilities (perhaps generating a sort of "To Do" list), more often it signifies indecision or a no-win situation where one tries to stall commitments for fear of the consequences of forsaking others. In the Two of Wands, prioritizing one desire over another often simply means that the unfulfilled desire moves to the background or goes dormant for the time being. You pursue learning piano now, and you can take up painting after. Because the Two of Swords involves the wishes and demands of other people, however, the choice is much more vexing and the fallout from making it more distressing. The Two of Pentacles indicates the ORGANIZING of RESOURCES. It depicts a juggler keeping two discs afloat while boats sail on the ocean behind him. It is not difficult to see in this image of deft maneuvering the process of taking stock of what one readily possesses, as well as the allocation of time and money to specific pursuits, or attending to the details of a matter to make sure that it is ably funded and properly scheduled. The boats in the background resonate nicely with such practicalities; the voyage will only survive if someone has paid attention to the condition of the ship and the time to set sail! Edited January 27, 2020 by sixdegrees
sixdegrees Posted January 27, 2020 Author Posted January 27, 2020 All of the Threes in the RWS appear to be pictures of YIELDING. I realize that this word signals some departure from conventional understanding of the Threes, which, in my long reading of published materials, typically signify a sense of growth, manifestation, and creativity. However, looking closely at the pictures suggests that such movement is probably better characterized as surrendering or becoming beholden to the qualities of the suit--for good or for ill. The Three of Wands, then, indicates YIELDING to AMBITIONS. This phrase intersects very well with the image on the card: A figure stands on a cliff and stares out to the horizon, watching a series of boats make their way out to sea. It summons up a sense of unquenchable desire for what lies out there in the waters. The figure will soon follow the boats. It points to an undeniable calling or vocation that one readily indulges with meaningful pursuit. It its worst sense it could also indicate a siren's song, a powerful attraction that nevertheless turns out to be a waste of time (or even dangerous). The Three of Cups indicates YIELDING to INTERACTIONS. Here we see the three women celebrating, perhaps even toasting their mutual connection, but experience teaches us that such affiliations are usually more complicated than the surface would suggest. When I see this image, I think of the very specific dynamic of not being in the mood to attend a social event but attending it anyway out of obligation, only to find oneself perhaps having a wonderful time in the end. The card thus points to established association in all of its benefits and costs: The ways that members of a social group can support, benefit, manipulate, and/or suppress individual members. It could also certainly indicate peer pressure, or a tendency for outsiders to overlook one's individuality in favor of one's group identification (many people believe that we are "the company we keep"). The Three of Swords indicates YIELDING to EXPECTATIONS. I believe that this phrase resonates wonderfully with the traditional image of the pierced heart while simultaneously providing sharper perspective than the traditional understanding of "sorrow." Quite simply, the card signifies acting against one's personal wishes (one's "heart") to fulfill some greater demand placed on oneself--acting in accordance with one's commitments or navigating some unfortunate element of reality even if one doesn't particularly wish to at the moment. Submitting to such expectation isn't necessarily a bad thing, and we will probably accrue some benefit in doing so, but in all likelihood that benefit will be an exterior one rather than an interior one. The Three of Pentacles, finally, indicates YIELDING to RESOURCES. The image is of the stonemason having to impress the monks of the church with his handiwork. In its most abstract sense the scene points to the place of labor in most of our lives: We sell our labor to an employer in exchange for pay (or so says Marx). The card thus signifies accepting one's place within this exchange, toiling now so that we may have money and time to do what we want later. Put differently, the resources that we have do not appear out of thin air, nor are they freely given. We also cannot exist without them. The upshot of these truths is that we must work to convince others to give them to us. More broadly, then, the card might point to any situation where one must impress others in exchange for some tangible reward.
sixdegrees Posted January 30, 2020 Author Posted January 30, 2020 All of the Fours in the RWS appear to be pictures of RETREATING. Each depicts a person turning away from or otherwise refusing the primary quality of the suit (yes, even the Pentacles, as we shall see). At this point it should be apparent that my meanings for the numbers are not meant to be sequential. "Retreating" is not the next logical step after "yielding." Instead, each numbered set exists independently of the numbers preceding and following it. At the same time, the numbers relate to each other as common and intelligible behaviors regarding the suit qualities. Retreat is just as plausible a reaction to the suit quality as reception or organization. The Four of Wands indicates RETREATING from AMBITIONS. In the picture we see two figures leaving the stone castle and coming out to the laurels and open air. Put differently, they are leaving a space of industry and advancement and entering one of a quite different character. The card, therefore, points to the embrace of leisure or of indulgent respite from one's otherwise taxing pursuits. The common meanings of celebration and/or freedom could be useful here, but if so, it is probably better to see such release as distractions from one's central and motivating desires. Occasionally, of course, it could also indicate irreversible abandonment of a goal. The Four of Cups indicates RETREATING from INTERACTIONS. Given the image, the phrase is not very surprising--a figure sits alone under a tree, arms crossed, refusing or perhaps even blind to the cup being offered. It is quite explicitly a rejection of the kinds of social offerings witnessed in the Ace. The card points to solitude and/or isolation of oneself from friends, family, and colleagues, either in actuality or in demeanor. This behavior is not inherently negative. Everyone at times requires the kind of break seen here, opportunity for introspection rather than the opinions and ideas of others. At the same time, too much of this isolation and one risks loneliness. The Four of Swords indicates RETREATING from EXPECTATIONS. Here we see the knight (perhaps of flesh, but maybe stone) lying within the church while life outside the stained glass window passes him by. It is not difficult to see the image pointing to refuge from the many demands placed upon oneself--and indeed, the common meaning of rest is often appropriate here as well. It can also certainly reference all kinds of official abdication and/or retirement (either permanent or momentary). The difference with the Four of Wands is the energetic level of the escape: There we see the exchange of an self-selected pursuit for a pleasure, while here we see the exchange of a burden for a reprieve. The Four of Pentacles indicates RETREATING from RESOURCES. The phrase may seem puzzling at first, as the image depicts a figure gripping tightly to a disk and surrounding himself with three others. It's possible to think of this image as a deviation from the other three (perhaps a kind of retreating INTO resources), but I don't think that one really needs to break the logic above to understand the card. What makes a resource a resource is that it is spent, traded, or exchanged. Its value only comes from what one can get for it in giving it up, and to keep some items for too long risks lowering their value. I think of the Twilight Zone episode "The Rip Van Winkle Caper," where some thieves steal a large quantity of gold and put themselves into cryogenic slumber so that they will wake up in the future fabulously wealthy, and with any authorities looking for them long dead. The twist, of course, is that in the future they wake to, gold is cheaply manufactured and plentiful while water is scarce. To hoard time or money, then, is essentially to withdraw from normal behavior with the matter. The card does point to greed and being miserly with one's things, stockpiling them, and also perhaps losing a sense of what actually makes them valuable in the first place.
iofthebeholder Posted January 31, 2020 Posted January 31, 2020 recently getting deep into a systematic building up of personal TdM associations myself, and I find this flows back into my understanding of RWS cards. part of my process has been producing my own visual reference "cheat sheets", not only for individual card meanings but also elemental interactions / numerological / directional considerations. these aspects in particular i'm learning a lot from TdM tableaux style approaches to reading, over the last week going back through my RWS documents, revising and reprinting them in light of recent developments. just commenting in this thread to say i like and appreciate what you're doing @sixdegrees!
sixdegrees Posted February 1, 2020 Author Posted February 1, 2020 (edited) Thank you for sharing your experience, iofthebeholder. I'm glad to hear about others who are doing what I do. While my work with the TdM has certainly inspired the present systematizing, ultimately I'm trying to keep my approach to the two traditions somewhat separate. My TdM reading style is based on Papus's thesis/antithesis/synthesis approach, with clear progressions imposed on each suit, while these RWS musings are really trying to build a system around the images themselves. In doing so I'm trying something I never thought I'd do: Evolving distinctly different styles for different decks. For the last 15 or so years I've been working toward a unified theory, and now all I can think of is particularization. Anyway... All of the Fives in the RWS appear to be pictures of LOSING. This characterization should not surprise anyone, as it is very much in line with traditional understandings of the Fives capturing disruption and hardship. The interest here, I think, is how this commonality applied strictly changes our sense of some of the cards, especially in relation to the Swords. The Five of Wands indicates a LOSS of AMBITIONS. The image shows a scuffle or competition, which many sources frame as "friendly" despite a lack of strong reason to believe so. Instead, the card more evidently depicts strong resistance to one's projects and desires from outside sources--a kind of "dog pile" of adversaries. At best it points to annoyances and setbacks that can enervate even the strongest of wills. Sometimes it can point to a revelation of vulnerability in one's plans, perhaps temporarily taking the wind out of one's sails. At worst it portends exhaustion and even unexpected defeat. The Five of Cups indicates a LOSS of INTERACTIONS. In it we see a mourner looking dejected at the overturned cups, and also overlooking the two upright ones behind him/her. The grey background adds to the generally depressing sense of the scene. Beyond the typical meanings of ruptured relationships and disappointment, the card may also point to simple (and often temporary) fluctuations in the quality or quantity of one's friendships and family connections. Everyone feels degrees of disregard or alienation at points, made all the more painful when these states appear unexpectedly. In such moments one should remember to seek out other connections that remain steadfast (symbolized by the remaining upright cups). The Five of Swords indicates a LOSS of EXPECTATIONS. As with the Wands, a preponderance of published sources seem to agree on the dour meaning of this card despite evident ambiguity. I have always found it difficult to reconcile the classic meaning of "defeat" here (from the Golden Dawn) with the fact that the victor in this image is in the foreground--a strong visual cue to identify with him. Some have tried to harmonize these qualities with the meaning of "costly victory," but I believe that the image more precisely points to an instance of rebellion, or at least independence from social expectations. It might also easily signify a situation dominated by uncertainty, where one cannot rely on convention and decorum to direct the behavior of oneself or others. At minimum it can indicate a moment of epiphany, where what one expected to be true turns out to be otherwise. The Five of Pentacles indicates a LOSS of RESOURCES. The image is one of abject poverty, with the two mendicants supporting each other through illness and harsh environment. The card easily points to any situation where one loses time or money: Theft, poor investments, or simple bad luck. In its best light the card probably references unexpected or unpleasantly high expenditures. It is also important to remember that such waste can be entirely one's own fault. No one requires that one fritter away the hours on impossible causes or throw away good money after bad. Edited February 1, 2020 by sixdegrees
sixdegrees Posted February 5, 2020 Author Posted February 5, 2020 (edited) All of the Sixes in the RWS appear to be pictures of UTILIZING. This is Katz and Goodwin's word for the number and I believe that it suits the images well. Equally good options include APPLYING or EMPLOYING the quality of the given suit. The Sixes primarily differ from the Threes in terms of the level of agency. In the Threes we give ourselves over to the suit, whereas in the Sixes we have much greater control over our involvement. The Six of Wands indicates UTILIZING AMBITIONS. The image is classically considered one of victory; the captain rides triumphantly and the crowd cheers him on. A wreath conspicuously hung from one of the wands cements this understanding. As a result, the card points to any product of applying our desires toward a particular goal: Achievement, recognition, and even in certain circumstances, capture. It could also indicate being in a position of leadership (often the result of applied efforts), and perhaps even a sense of weariness after great exertion. The Six of Cups indicates UTILIZING INTERACTIONS. The traditional meaning of this card is "nostalgia," which is not entirely clear in the image itself outside of the fact that one of the figures appears to be a child. In rethinking the meaning of the card, I choose to focus on the very apparent exchange between the two individuals. Essentially, the card appears to be about the ability to rely on associates: Networking, calling in favors, or acknowledging a symbiosis of some sort (a "quid pro quo," to use a phrase of the moment). It could also reasonably indicate the effective management of more impersonal interactions, such as smooth talking one's way past a gatekeeper, or at least indicate qualities of personality that make such situations possible: Congeniality, affability, and sometimes even an air of helplessness (which resonates well with the notion of childhood). Importantly, while the Ace of Cups points to an unexpected offer of assistance, the Six refers to seeking out others purposefully, with a specific end in mind. The Six of Swords indicates UTILIZING EXPECTATIONS. The image of the boat passengers is somewhat mysterious, but many sources note that the party appears to be moving from choppy to smooth waters, with the island in the distance serving as their eventual destination. From a certain vantage a sense of mourning permeates the card, though this understanding probably arises more from convention than the image itself. In fact, we might equally read the image as one of statecraft, with an emissary traveling with the assistants and provisions necessary to make for an effective visit. Perhaps more than any other card in the suit, then, the Six captures the notion of mobilizing responsibilities and the expectations of others for one's own benefit. It points to the gifts of an envoy: A certain savvy for manipulating the rules of a situation in one's favor, a keen sense of diplomacy and sensitivity to decorum, and the effective navigation of a given set of constraints. The Greeks reserved the word kairos to describe behavior that seems especially fitting in a given situation, a combination of poise and timing that takes advantage of given circumstances to great personal effect. Such a faculty, I contend, is the essence of this card. The Six of Pentacles indicates UTILIZING RESOURCES. The phrase is easy to see in the image: A wealthy lord carefully measuring and distributing coins to paupers who eagerly receive his gift. The meaning is equally straightforward. The card points to funding or making investments of time or money into particular enterprises, often with the purpose of influencing their eventual development. It could also indicate instances of charity or altruism, though the cynic in me points out that donation still tacitly involves selfish endorsement--an expression of one's personal desires and values that one hopes to see flourish. Whereas the Two might indicate the mere allocation of one's time or money, the Six references the execution of this plan with an eye on some sort of tangible reward. Edited February 5, 2020 by sixdegrees
reall Posted February 6, 2020 Posted February 6, 2020 I like your idea/approach!:) for me Wands are Driving Passions!:) & Cups are relationships & Swords are Words ( are Magic, you can use words to push people down & help them lift up & do impossible!:) so be careful how you use your *Magic!^^ lol Pentacles are what we have on this earth body health & material possessions & time!:) aces are start or conception! 2 are Balance?;) 3 are Expansion (imo 3 of swords may be growth/expansion in a way there is 3rd person interfering in pair happiness or simply we overgrow some relationships & need to learn to be independent & rely less on others to make us happy?;) 4 are Stability so retreat rest or break from works well!;) 5 are new Destabilizing element/challenge so it may be how we deal with it?;) ie 5 of wands fight for our place, 5 of cups lament what's lost, 5 of swords retreat, 5 suffer?;) 6 (2x3) duality (Calm after 5& before next step 7, or how we recover after challenge?;) 6 cups past memories/& reversed future plans, 6 of wands victory/failure 6 swords moving on/ R resisting flow 6 coins help giving/ R receiving 7 is progress according to our choices knowledge & actions 8 reaction to resulting change 9 climax—highs or lows, the penultimate scene in a movie before resolution 10 Resolution culmination of suit energy also I'm writing guidebook for artist *How to create Tarot deck that will include following cheat sheet so please take a look & tell me what you think?;) Minor Arcana Number cards 1-10 Keywords Suit/el relic meaning Number Cups – Water Holy Grail Heart Emotions, feelings, creativity Wands–Fire Candle of Life/Spear of Destiny Body Action,passion, desire, enthusiasm Swords – Air Cross Mind thoughts, ideas, intellect, communication Coins – Body of Christ & Earth Wealth & work, manifestation, 1 Start New Beginning, Conception, Potential, Fresh Start, Opportunity Upright: New Emotions, Love, Spirituality, Inspiration, Intuition, Content, Fertility; Felicity, True Heart. Reversed; the false heart, Blocked & Negative emotions, Emotional Loss Repression Outflux & Drain. Upright: New Passion, Action, Start, Creation, Potential, Birth, Beginning, Origin, Source. Reversed; Lack or misdirected Energy & Passion, Fall, Decadence, Perdition, Hesitation, Delay, Procrastination. Upright: New Ideas Plan Vision, Clarity, Mental breakthrough, Conquest, Triumph of Force. Reversed; Confusion, Hostility, Brutality, Conception, Childbirth, Augmentation, Multiplicity. Upright: New Venture & business Opportunity, Prospect, Prosperity, Profit, Manifestation. Reversed; Caution, Instability, Expense, Lost Opportunity, Missed Chance, Bad Investment. 2- Duality Partnership Balance, R Lack of it. Upright: Favorable Connection, Emotional Partnership, Love, Passion, Friendship, Affinity, Concord, Unity. Reversed; Broken Communication, Disconnection, Discord, Disbalance, Distrust, Tension, Misunderstanding. Upright:, Contemplation, Consideration Aspirations, Decisions, Wanderlust, Wait, Leaving Home, Travel. Reversed; Playing Safe, Holding Back, Surprise, Wonder, Trouble, Expectation. Upright: Dilemma, Difficult Choice Decision, Conformity, Avoidance, Impose, Truce, Blind attachment. Reversed;Imposture, Falsehood, Duplicity, Disloyalty, Doubt, Indecision, Conflict, Stalemate. . Upright: Balancing Multiple Priorities, Flexibility, Recreation, Agitation, Obstacles, Occupation. Reversed; Work in progress, Embroilment, Multitasking, Disorganized, Overwhelmed. 3– Growth, Creativity Expansion issue for R. Upright: Positive Emotional Conclusion, Refreshing Change, Growth, Friendship, Cheering, Socialization, Party, Solace, Healing. Reversed; Overindulgence, Gossip, Expedience, Dispatch, Consolation. Upright: Enterprise, Effort, Discovery, Validation, Trade, Commerce, Co-operation in business. Reversed; Oversight, Improvement, the end of troubles, suspension or cessation of adversity, toil and disappointment. Upright: Emotional Trauma, Loss, Sorrow, Betrayal, Hurt, Divide, Severance, Absence. Reversed; Mental Alienation, Error, Distraction, Disorder, Recovery, Forgiveness, Moving On. Upright: Teamwork, Collaboration, Practice, Constructive Critic, Performing & Improving One Skill. Reversed; Mediocrity, Puerility, Lack of Teamwork & Practice Displacement. 4- Stability, Structure, Peace Rest Upright: Refusal, Aversion, Apathy, Indifference, Weariness, Discontent, Blended Pleasure,Missed Opportunity. Reversed; Prescience, Novelty, Choosing Happiness, New relations. Upright: Accomplishment, Stability, Peace, Prosperity, Domestic Harmony, Fest, Family Event, Special Occasion. Reversed; Lack of Support, Transience, Home Conflict or leaving home, Uncertainty, Transition, Embellishment. Upright: Rest, Retreat, Recovery, Solitude, Exile, Vigilance, Contemplation, Meditation. Reversed; Wise Administration , Circumspection, Economy, Avarice, Precaution, Testament, Stagnation. Upright: Misery, Conservation, Security of possessions, Cleaving, Gift, Legacy, Frugality, Stinginess. Reversed;Suspense, Delay, Recession Hindrance, Opposition, Observation, Greediness, Possessiveness. 5- Instability, Challenge Conflict, Struggles Upright: Emotional Instability Loss & Disappointment & Dissatisfaction, Pessimism, Mourning, Separation, Resolution, Aftermath, Transmission. Reversed; Acceptance, Moving On, Finding Peace, Forgiveness, Return, Regret, Alliances, Affinity, Ancestry. Upright: Competition, Confrontation, Conflict, Sport, Practice, Training, Reality, Rivalry, Arguments, Debate. Reversed; Disputes, Trickery, Strife, Contradiction, Avoiding Conflict, Respecting Differences. Upright: Outplayed, Outwitted, Confrontation, Counter, Degradation, Dishonor, Infamy, Revocation, Surrender, Hostility, Intimidation. Reversed; Lingering Resentment, Desire to Forgive, Reconciliation. Upright: Material Trouble Worry & Adversary, Health & relationship issue, Affinities, Insecurity, Conquest of fortune by reason. Reversed; Improvement, Recovery, Damage, Disorder, Profligacy, Need, Consumption. 6- Calm after 5 & before next step 7, Upright: Past Memories, Reminiscing, Restoration, Familiarity, Healing, Childhood, Innocence, Kindness. Reversed; Moving Forward, Future Plans, Leaving Home, Independence, Renewal, Nostalgia. Upright: Victory, Triumph, Success, Achievement, Glory, Ego, Reward, Fame, Public Recognition, Great News. Reversed;Apprehension, Arrogance, Disloyalty, Disgrace, Delay, Vanity, Unappreciated, Treachery, Punishment. Upright: Journey by Water, Way, Travel, Route, Refuge, Escape, Envoy, Expedient, Running Away. Reversed; Declaration, Publicity; Proposal, Baggage, Unresolved Issues, Stuck, Against the flow. Upright: Present, Gift, Generosity, Gratification, Sharing, Charity, Help, Attention, Now is the accepted time. Reversed; Longing, Cupidity, Envy, Strings Attached, Ulterior Motives, Credit, Debt. 7–Progress according to our choices knowledge & actions Upright: Searching for Purpose, Multiple Options, Opportunities, Indecisiveness, Wishful thinking, Images of reflection. Reversed; Diversion, Distraction, Disarray, Confusion, Fantasy, Daydreaming, Lack of Purpose. Upright: Advantage, Challenge,Defiance Defense, Discussion, Discourse, Barter, Business--Negotiations, Success. Reversed; Perplexity, Anxiety, Lack of Confidence, Exhaustion, Embarrassment, Vulnerability. Upright: Design, Sneaky, Attempt, Scheme, Tactic, Strategy, Lies, Quarreling, Confidence, Disruption, Impudence. Reversed;Good advice, Counsel, Instruction, Slander, Affair, Evasion, Rethinking Approach, Confession. Upright: Work & Money Concerns Speculations Issues Decisions Investment Rewards & Results, Patience, Wait, Business, Barter. Reversed; Material Anxiety, Loan, Uncertainty, Distractions, Delays Impatience, Apprehension, Suspicion. 8 – Reaction to change Upright: Transition, Walking Away, Leaving Something Behind, Escapism Abandonment, Priority change, Retreat, Disillusionment, Timidity, Mildness, Modesty. Reversed; Diversion, Avoidance, Hangover, Afterparty, looking for something better joy & happiness. Upright: Swift Activity in Motion, Haste toward goal, Quick Decisions, Arrows of love, Modern Air & fast travel Transport & Communication, Chat. Reversed; Jealousy, Dispute, Quarrels, Stinging of Conscience, Panic, Slowing Down, Misfire. Upright: Mental Block, Crisis, Censure, Critic, Entrapment, Violent Chagrin, Bad News, Insecurity, Interference, Restriction, Trammels. Reversed; Complication, Disquiet, Difficulty,Frustration, Imprisonment, Unforeseen Fatality. Upright: Work, Craft, Employment, Commission, Focus, Skill In Craft & Business, Perhaps Preparatory Stage. Diligence, Apprentices, Dedication, Reversed; Voided Ambition, Vanity, Cupidity, Exaction, Usury. Ingenious Skill, Manufacture, Perfectionism siphoning avarice usury 9 – Climax—Highs or lows, the penultimate scene in a movie before resolution Upright: Emotional Satisfaction & Content, Accomplishment, Success, Perfection of results, Gratitude, Gain, Physical bien-être. Reversed; Dissatisfaction, Liberty, Imperfections, Audacity, Materialism, Overindulgence, Smugness. Upright: Vigilance, Guard, Fortification, Defense, Alertness, Endurance, Grit, Prepping, Hindrance,Delay, Suspension, Adjournment. Reversed; Obstacles, Calamity, Exhaustion, Paranoia, Annoyance, Depletion. Upright:Affliction, Anguish, Anxiety, Bedridden, Failure, Suffering, Sickness, Pregnancy, Trauma, Distress, Depression, Delay. Reversed; Doubt, Suspicion, Shame, Reasonable Fear, Cooping, Accident Upright: Abundance, Plenty, Luxury, Wealth & Well being, Prosperity, Safety, Success, Accomplishment, Certitude, Discernment, Soon. Reversed;Roguery, Deception, Voided Project, Vain Hope, Overextended, Living Beyond Means. 10 Resolution culmination of suit energy Upright: Emotional Fulfillment, Family Bliss, Harmony, Happiness, Dreams Coming True, Perfection of love & friendship, Home residence. Reversed; Dysfunction, Disharmony, Domestic Dispute, Indignation, Revolt, Shattered Dreams. Upright: Oppression, Responsibility, Burden, Overtaxed, Hard Work requiring lots of Effort. Reversed; Contrariety, Difficulties, Burn Out, Stressed, Reassessment, Pressure, Unwillingness to Delegate. Upright: Defeat, Devastation, Desolation, Collapse, Failure, Backstabbing, Painful End, Pain, Treason, Realization. Reversed; Temporary Advantage, Profit Success or Favor, Power & Authority, Recovery, Regeneration. Upright: Gain, Riches, Home & Family Matters, Legacy, Archives, Extraction, Culmination, Affluence, Shared Wealth & Knowledge Prestige Reversed; Fatality, Loss, Robbery, Games Of Hazard; Sometimes Gift, Dowry, Pension.
sixdegrees Posted February 8, 2020 Author Posted February 8, 2020 Thank you for sharing your perspective, reall. It looks like we disagree on some of the numerical associations, but that's the wonderful thing about tarot--there's room for both of our perspectives. I love the idea of creating a particular resource for artists. That's certainly a different way of approaching a systemic understanding. One thing that I have been thinking about lately is a possible keyword switch of the Swords from EXPECTATIONS to DEMANDS. The notion of "demand" is already a synonym that I used in my discussion of the suit in my first post above, and it may in fact better capture the life experience that I'm trying to indicate. Expectations seem meek and easy to ignore with only minor repercussion. Demands are more forceful requirements that one ignores at some peril, much more in line with the power connoted by a sword. Expectations, again, come from Katz and Goodwin's work, and while I found the term appealing at the start of this journey, I have always had a sneaking suspicion that they wanted it to point both ways: The mental expectations that we possess in a given situation, as well as the expectations placed on us by others. As I have illustrated thus far, however, I see the Swords almost exclusively as the second category--far less internal/cerebral and much more external/social. I believe that such a switch would also clarify the meanings of the key phrases: Ace: RECEIVING of DEMANDS--Duties, Honors, Approval/Praise Two: ORGANIZING of DEMANDS--Ranking, Indecision (feeling torn or stuck in a no-win situation) Three: YIELDING to DEMANDS--Commitments, Reality (acting against one's own desires) Four: RETREATING from DEMANDS--Refuge, Rest, Abdication/Retirement Five: LOSS of DEMANDS--Rebellion, Independence, Uncertainty, Epiphany Six: UTILIZING DEMANDS--Situational Savvy, Diplomacy, Navigation, Kairos Each of those seems to be clearer than the original wording with "expectations"...except, perhaps, the Ace. Some further thought on the matter is warranted. Knighthood--the image I see in the Ace of Swords--is at once the reception of a great honor and a heavy burden. In knighting the crown asks the individual to defend the kingdom with his life. One can hardly imagine a weightier demand. The Ace, then, can signify any explicit request made upon a person, a more formal assignment of a duty/responsibility, or a more diffuse kind of approval that heralds new obligations. This final category--a demand hiding within evident praise--is especially interesting. It makes me think about the psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan, who observed that every demand made in life is simultaneously a demand for the identified object and a plea that the listener not ignore us. Demand, for Lacan, is the primary medium through which humans grapple with their desire for love, affection, and affirmation from others. It seems like the reverse can also be true. When we praise others, we are also on some level demanding that they recognize us as a meaningful (and perhaps even powerful) source of affirmation--to say nothing about how we might consciously use praise to encourage others to fulfill our desires. I think that's enough for tonight. I had intended to write up the Sevens, but I'll do that in a separate post later.
reall Posted February 12, 2020 Posted February 12, 2020 (edited) agree it's good to disagree that's how we learn to expand our comfort zone!;) Demands sounds good! ;)also like your 3 as Commitments it totally fit!:) and psychoanalyst reference Jacques Lacan definition of demand totally make sense!:) always like to include it in tarot!^^ looking forward to see more keywords you'll end up with!?;) btw here is my court list, do let me know how you like?;) p.s this is long list that need some polishing will add 1 keywords later!;) Minor Arcana Court Cards Keywords attributes Suit/ rank Cups – Water Emotional Compassionate Fluent Deep Wands – Fire Active Passionate, hard working, honest Swords – Air Intellectual Experienced Eloquent Disperse Pentacles – Earth Well Grounded Materialistic Workaholic Page; Personification of Elemental Energy Young Children Teen News Messenger Helper Apprentice Learning Enthusiasm Numerology 11; 1 to Start Reversed; Immature Page of Cups; Young Emotional Sensitive Person, Adolescent, Young at heart, Inner child, Dreamer, Idealistic, Intuitive, Curios, Creative, Crush, Possibility, Reflection, Meditation, Surprise, Message, Happy News, Application; also these things directed to business Reversed; Emotional Immaturity, Instability, Insecurity, Vulnerability, lovesick, Seduction, Envy, Artifice, Attachment, Inclination, Taste, Disappointment, Deception, Drama. Page of Wands; Energetic Person Youth or Child, Playful, Childlike Enthusiasm, Excitement, Extrovert, Explorer, Discovery, Inspiration, Freedom, Spirited Playmate, Good friend & partner, Good news, Swift Messenger, Modern Communications. Reversed; Hyperactive, Restless, Lack of Focus, Aimless, Instability, Insecurity, Conflict, Setback, Indecision, Unfavorable Announcement & News. Page of Swords; Indigo Child or young person views above it's age, Blunt communicator, know all, Good Student, Innovative Thinker, Strong Mind Opinionated, Curious Vigilant Observer, Data gathering & processing, Overseeing, Authority, Secret service, Spying. Reversed; Overthinking, All Talk, Intrigue, Indiscretion, Unforeseen, Unprepared State, Futile Excuses, Empty Arguments, Wrong Answers, Verbal Manipulation. Page of Coins; Practical, Pragmatic, Management, Manifestation, Consideration, Ambition, Diligence, Planning & Preparing, Setting goals and rules, New Venture, Dream Endeavor, Good news regarding finance Application, Study, Scholarship. Reversed: Prodigality, Dissipation, Liberality, Luxury, Greed, Laziness, Procrastination, Degradation, Pillage, Lack of Commitment, Bad News & Investment. Knight; Adult Energy of suit in its Full Power Offer Affairs Numerology 12/3 1 to Expand Reversed; Element Out of control Knight of Cups; Prince Charming Personality, Romantic, Gentle, Peaceful, Going with the flow, Emotional Tide, Arrival, Approach-Advances, Proposal, Invitation, Incitement, Good news, Following One's Heart Passion. Reversed; Artifice, Duplicity, Fraud, Swindling, Subtlety, Irregularity, Trickery, Jealousy, Moodiness, Playboy, Hormonal, Heartbreaker. Knight of Wands; Passionate Hot head personality full of Energy & ready for action, Fearless Strike while the iron’s hot, Movement, Cause, Adventure, Departure, Flight, Emigration, Change of residence. Reversed: Intense, Recklessness, Uncontrollable, Unpredictable Impulsive, Rupture, Interruption, Discord, Anger, heated argument. Knight of Swords; Hero to rescue personality, Swift, Talkative, Unstoppable, Impulsive, Valiant Courageous, Risk-Taker Change, Seizing the moment, Bravery, Capacity, Defending Beliefs, Formidable Opponent. Reversed; Impatience, Incapacity, Enmity, Opposition, Wrath, War, Destruction, Disregard for consequence Attack on nerves & mind. Knight of Coins; Conservative, Calculative, Think before action but won't stop until completed, Slow & Steady Progress & Accomplishment, Hard Work, Efficiency, Persistent, Reliable, Responsibility, Rectitude, Interest, Useful Discovery Reverse; Inertia, Boredom, Routine, Careless, Obsessive, Unrewarding work, Unemployment, Stagnation, Discouragement, Travel by land. Queen – mature actualized suit’s energy aspect of Empress numerology 13/4 constant grow?;) or ruled by element if R. Queen of Cups; Compassionate Fair Honest Devoted Mature loving Intelligence Emotional Support & Comfort, Creative Intuitive, Artistic Person or Tendencies, Mother, Relative, Friend, Empathy, Healer, Vision, Wisdom & Virtue, Happiness, Pleasure, Success. Reversed: Negative emotions; Faking Controlling or Suppressing , Manipulative, Insecure, Irrational, Depravity, Dependence, Martyrdom. Queen of Wands; Active Dynamic side of nature Growth fierce & fiery outgoing independent magnetic sexy personality in charge. Passionate Activist achieving Good Results & success in business. Positive Energy, Social butterfly. Reversed; Lack of confidence & focus, Multitasking, Selfishness, Insecurity, Jealousy, Overbearing Self doubt. Queen of Swords; Sharp, Impartial, Honest, Perceptive, Eloquence. Mental Clarity, Open Mindedness, Intellectual Complexity or Mental Challenge, teacher, mother in law, experienced mature person who can provide intellectual insight or unbiased advice. Reversed; Heartless, Rival or Competitor, Bitter, Deprivation, Hypocrisy, Artifice, Privation, Shrewd, Strict, Stress. Queen of Coins; Nurturing female someone you admire for how well she is taking care of her body home creatures or family. Working parent, Work/Life balance, Providing Material Well Being, Security, Comforts, Opulence, Generosity, Magnificence, Practicality. Reversed: Self-Centeredness & Selfcontent, Independence, Mistrust, Meddling, Smothering, Suspense, Vacillation, Neglect, Illness. King – mature expression of the suit’s energy aspect of Emperor number 14, 1 to rule!;) or extreme if R. King of Cups; Master of Emotion Listen with calm & compassionate mind & heart & offer sound solution & assistance. Understanding creative intelligence. Affectionate, Responsible, Family oriented, Father figure, Romantic partner. Often profession; art, law, science counseling & spiritual guidance, divinity, and business support. Balance Heart & Head. Reversed; Ruled by negative emotions, Uncaring, Dishonest, Roguery, Hypocrisy, Indulgence. King of Wands; Charismatic and passionate mature male figure, Mastered directing his passion in making things done. Enthusiasm Favorable, Action oriented, Entrepreneur, Lion, Fruitful Leader, Delegating tasks, Overcoming Challenges with vision & intent honesty & good meaning for all questions regarding passion action work & home estate. Reversed; Impulsive, Overbearing, Austere, bad leader, Unrealistic Impossible Expectations, Player. King of Swords Master of Intellect Person in Charge in Virtue of his Office, Specialized Educated Intelligence, Expertise, Rational, Logical, Analytical, Self Discipline, Fair Legal Matters & Connections-Power, Command, Authority, Rank, Influence, Wisdom, Law, Duty, Public Offices, Militant Intelligence, Doctor and so forth. Head Over Heart, Truth. Reversed; Dangerous Opponent, Cruelty, Perfidy, Evil Intention. Caution to end ruinous lawsuit. King of Coins Master of Providing, Conservative, Devoted to his work home & family roots, Well grounded, Solid and Dependable, Realistic, Realizing Intelligence, Prosperity, Generosity, Discipline, Security, Stability, Successful Businessman, Wealthy, Merchant, Sometimes Mathematical Gifts and Attainments of this kind; High Status & Success in these paths. Reversed; Materialistic weakness, Vice, Greed, Corruption, Perversity, Peril, Excess, Stubborn. Edited February 18, 2020 by reall
sixdegrees Posted February 18, 2020 Author Posted February 18, 2020 After a brief hiatus, I'm back. I would be interested in seeing your courts list, reall, but I think that you forgot to post it. Right now I'm going back and forth on how to handle the courts. Part of me wants to continue the project I'm building here (i.e. all of the Pages indicate a common reference that intersects with each of the suits), and part of me wants to do something different with them. I suppose I still have a few numbers to figure it out! Let's continue with the Sevens. All of the Sevens in the RWS appear to be pictures of EVALUATING. Each depicts a person in the process of deciding the worth or value of the suit's quality. Generally speaking, the cards indicate moments where we pause to decide if the decisions we've made thus far with the suit are solid ones. We might then follow this evaluation with the behavior of the Three (giving back in to the suit quality) or the Four (retreating from the current configuration). The Seven of Wands indicates EVALUATING AMBITIONS. I particularly like this meaning in light of the card's image; I can't help but think that the harried figure defending himself from the advancing wands must be rethinking his (perhaps poor) life choices. Though traditional approaches see this image as a symbol of valor, I'm not so convinced. How many of us typically respond to challenges with immediate courage? The card more likely points to moments where we ponder if our goals are actually worth the effort it will take to reach them--in a word, doubting our previous enthusiasm. It could also certainly signify a sense of siege or onslaught of problems that prompts such evaluation, and if nothing else, the momentary resolve required to take the time to think future costs and benefits through. The Seven of Cups indicates EVALUATING INTERACTIONS. The image of the shadowy figures facing a collection of tantalizing and baffling options resonates strongly with the phrase. The items in the cups seem to reference the many kinds of people we might interact with: Family (the castle), friends (the face), mentors (the laurel), clients or customers (the jewels), rivals (the dragon), enemies (the snake), and strangers (the cloaked figure). But who is whom, and how can we be sure? The card points to instances where we need to step back and decide which interactions serve us and which might be diminished or cut loose. It thus signifies times of serious and honest reflection, where we consider the real history of a relationship rather than what we've told ourself it is (or what it could be). Of course, it might also reference a puzzling surprise (good or bad) that occasions this kind of reflection. The Seven of Swords indicates EVALUATING DEMANDS. The figure in the image is making off with some swords and leaving others behind in the encampment. Though traditional associations refer to him as the "thief," it is probably more fitting to think of him as a rogue--an individual out for himself above all. As a result, the card points to times in life where we need to determine which requirements provide some notable benefit and deserve our continued adherence, as well as which ones are only sources of enervation. We might start by wondering how so many piled up at all. In short: The card refers to a purposeful acknowledgment of expectations one saw as only inevitable before, as well as any instance of disillusionment that revealed the difference. Importantly, the rogue is not the rebel of the Five. There one openly defies and casts off demands; here one is only surreptitiously judging them. The Seven of Pentacles indicates EVALUATING RESOURCES. This phrase is probably the easiest to understand of the bunch, underscored by the image of the farmer patiently waiting to harvest his crop. For some reason I have always enjoyed the simultaneously folksy and poetic inclinations of this card: One generally reaps what one sows, interrupted by the occasional bumper crop or fallow year. It points, here, to situations where we need to assess if our current investments of time and money are conducive to our lives. In a very specific sense this assessment would involve auditing or taking a second look at one's budget/schedule. More broadly, it could refer to any analysis of waste and efficiency.
sixdegrees Posted February 24, 2020 Author Posted February 24, 2020 From what I can surmise, since I last signed in here this thread witnessed a flurry of responses, but they became so voluminous that a moderator broke them off into their own thread. I appreciate all of the responses and am glad that people are finding my experiment illuminating. One user in particular posed a question, so I wanted to make sure and respond to that directly here: On 2/18/2020 at 2:25 PM, FindYourSovereignty said: As I was doing a search on the Six of Pentacles, I came across this thread. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this new system of reading RWS. It is interesting. Your explantation of the Six of Pentacles paralleled several of my own thoughts regarding this image. I am curious about how the scale symbolism fits into your interpretation. I am assuming it is the exchange of the time or money for the tangible reward, but wondering if there is more with the scales than that. The notion of exchange is certainly one way to think about the symbolism of the scales. I suppose another one would be that as a tool, scales help one precisely measure out the amount of time or money to be invested, underscoring the essentially calculating activity indicated by the image. I appreciate that you drew my attention to this element, and I'll have to think about it further. Onto the Eights... All of the Eights in the RWS appear to be pictures of GROWING. Another appropriate keyword for this group would be INCREASING. I like both of these keywords because they indicate either purposefully cultivated expansion or spontaneous surges...both of which play into the images of the suits. The Eight of Wands indicates GROWING AMBITIONS. The image is famously restrained, with just eight sticks in formation against a fairly nondescript landscape, but much can be said about the meaning of their formation. We might see the same wand replicated eight times, or we might notice that all of the wands are "flying" in uniform formation toward the same endpoint. In both cases, the image easily points to increasing attention on a specific goal. If this is purposeful expansion, then the card might signify the presence of greater focus than we've previously exhibited in an endeavor. On the spontaneous side, it could indicate unexpected intensification of desire, experiencing a second wind of sorts, or (in some instances) exhibiting a certain reckless abandon for what we want. The Eight of Cups indicates GROWING INTERACTIONS. This phrasing is quite in line with traditional understandings of the somewhat puzzling image: A figure walking away from an assembly of golden cups at night. Mainstream interpretations often suggest that the figure is leaving behind something that is comfortable but no longer truly beneficial, and I agree with this core meaning. In terms of purposeful expansion, the card points to a widening of one's social life to incorporate new experiences or new people--a sign of maturation and even wisdom. It can also concretely indicate attending to others that one normally does not check in on. If the experience is unexpected, however, we might think of the evolution more in terms of sudden and painful transcendence of what we have always held dear ("outgrowing" instead of merely "growing"). I still vividly remember the precise moment that I outgrew a beloved children's book series as a youth. I did not really see it coming, but I knew once it happened that I could not go back to the series any longer. That feeling is an essence of this card. The Eight of Swords indicates GROWING DEMANDS. The image is bleak: A woman stands bound and blindfolded, surrounded by a ring of sharp swords that appear to hem her in closely. It very clearly captures the experience of feeling trapped by the needs of others and expectations of life, especially if one initially took on such responsibilities enthusiastically. In situations where one has willingly assented to taking these on, the card points to overextension and the personal problems that stem from it--strain and burnout being the most evident. The situation is uncomfortable and untenable; it won't last much longer. When one has become unexpectedly surrounded by demands, however, the card more likely signifies feeling ambushed and resentful, as well as powerless in resisting such an avalanche. In these moments it is important to pay attention to the fact that the woman's feet are not bound (as Rachel Pollack notes in Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom). Complicity in the increasing demands of others is a choice, even if it doesn't feel like one in the moment. One can always walk away. The Eight of Pentacles indicates GROWING RESOURCES. The image--of an individual fashioning a pentacle at a workbench as seven others hang on the wall nearby--is construed by many traditional sources as one of apprenticeship, but this interpretation has never made any sense to me. The Three of Pentacles seems much more like the card of the apprentice, both because it is numerically smaller and because other figures are judging the quality of the craftsmanship on that card. The Eight, on the other hand, has always felt more appropriate to me as the card of mastery. The figure here has learned the proper formulas and proportions and can now be trusted to craft with regularity on his own. This distinction colors my interpretation of the phrase here as well. As purposeful expansion, the card points to mastery of a task or situation in such a way that one achieves some sense of independence within it. Put differently, one has invested one's time and/or money to such a degree that one receives more of each in return (think of managers, or even owners of a business, who tend to receive more money and greater control over their schedules than entry-level employees). In these cases time and money give rise to a third kind of resource--expertise or clout--which might be traded or squandered according to one's talents. In this way, the card can at times indicate a trend toward conservatism or conventional thinking, rather than working with the imagination of someone new to the field. As unexpected growth, of course, the card can also signify a windfall of resources to work with and fashion as one needs, or perhaps a sudden mental breakthrough in how to best work with the resources that one possesses.
sixdegrees Posted February 29, 2020 Author Posted February 29, 2020 It is time to address the Nines. Part of this post fills me with apprehension, because I am drawing closer to the Knights and still haven't decided the unified factor for them yet. I suppose it will just take more extended thinking, or perhaps it will come in an unexpected flash of brilliance. All of the Nines in the RWS appear to be pictures of PRIORITIZING. Each card depicts the temporary emphasis of the suit's quality above other concerns in life, for good or for ill (and if we're being honest, probably for both good and ill more often than not). Each of the cards implies some sort of sacrifice in the act of extreme dedication. The Nine of Wands indicates PRIORITIZING AMBITIONS. The image is of the vigilant soldier, battered but stalwart at his post. Many traditional interpretations of this card suggest that it is one of power and paranoia (in the sense that only those with power fear losing it), and while I feel like that sense is part of the story here, it really strikes me much more basically as a card of stubbornness. The figure has planted himself and refuses to move from the configuration, even if he is feeling a bit weathered. He doesn't care that it's an illogical choice, or that others might sneer at him for making it. The card thus points to moments in life where we refuse to give up what we desire, where we hold fast to some claim with marked devotion. In a positive sense this behavior might invite success though sheer obstinance, or at least the admiration of others who share similar goals. In such moments, however, there is also the risk of myopia or "tunnel vision," as well as a kind of foolhardiness. Poor Icarus was also one to prioritize his ambitions, after all. The Nine of Cups indicates PRIORITIZING INTERACTIONS. At first this phrase doesn't seem to apply to the lone figure beaming and surrounded by his cups, but with a little squinting I don't think it's too difficult to see him as taking a breather in the corner of some social function. No one stands at a wedding reception the entire time. And if cups can function symbolically as human relations (as was the case in the Seven), then it becomes abundantly clear that this individual is surrounded by social connections. In this way, the card points to times in life where we heavily emphasize extraversion and socializing: Parties, conventions, reunions, etc. There is certainly a strong sense of community here, and in specific cases it might even indicate service. It's not hard to see this Nine referencing a time of casual dating either. At the same time, the card might also signify a manic avoidance of being alone, a tendency toward serial monogamy or motivated codependence. Importantly, the difference here from the Three is in terms of size. Whereas that card indicates being beholden to a close social circle or known associates, the Nine is often more impersonal and indicative of large groups of people. The Nine of Swords indicates PRIORITIZING DEMANDS. The figure sitting up in bed and covering his/her face has been classically characterized as experiencing a "nightmare," and in truth that's not far off from what I have to say here. Mathematically, nine is the square or intensification of three, and that relationship provides a clue to the meanings of this card. In the Three of Swords we are yielding to the demands of others, and though we might not be happy about it, the obligation is over once the demand is fulfilled. The Three is transient. When we prioritize the demands of others in the Nine, however, we enter a much more taxing state of worry and obsession over if and how we are meeting these demands. We are, in essence, yolked for a time--if only in our own heads. The card can therefore point to a more serious and complex trial of expectations that consumes our attention for some duration, something that we view as necessary but not pleasant (one thinks of the mid-level manager losing many nights of sleep over the execution of some important project at work). On a more positive note, of course, the card might also signify notable concentration or grit, and even an enviable selflessness at times. The Nine of Pentacles indicates PRIORITIZING RESOURCES. The image is of a wealthy woman standing in a garden, in gorgeous dress, her hooded falcon mirroring the careful cultivation of the flora. Some sources point out that it is a beautiful scene, but the figure also stands alone, prompting some reflection on the part of the reader: What has this woman sacrificed to acquire such fabulous circumstance? I have always taken this question as the central dynamic of the card. Principally it points to a state of independence, where we either seek or gain control of our own time and money. By extension, it is the card of career and all of the benefits that one can reap with enough attention in this sphere. The image can also easily signify instances of opulence or other kinds of material showiness, and in very specific circumstances it might even portray a history of overcoming meager beginnings. Naturally, the downsides are everything that one might imagine: Callous pragmatism, stunning avarice, or simply a depressing shallowness. One thinks of King Midas, staring in astonishment at his golden daughter.
sixdegrees Posted March 22, 2020 Author Posted March 22, 2020 Goodness, it has been a while since I had the time to check in here. I got busy at work, and then the world fell apart with the pandemic. I'm working from home now. Perhaps once I've adjusted to my new normal, I will have more time and energy to finish this series. I do intend to finish it!
sixdegrees Posted March 30, 2020 Author Posted March 30, 2020 This afternoon I had a hankering to finish out the pips in this series. I've been staring at my computer screen for long hours as a result of working from home during the Coronavirus pandemic, and this requirement has kept my personal use of the computer to a minimum. But today, for whatever reason, I feel up for it. All of the Tens in the RWS appear to be pictures of PERSISTING. In the Nines we see the decision to prioritize the quality of the suit, but in the Tens we see a kind of boundless expression of the quality with or without our consent. In contrast to more traditional approaches to the Tens that emphasize "an end and a new beginning," I see them as endless. Ends are, instead, the purview of the Fours (where we retreat from the quality). The Ten of Wands indicates PERSISTING AMBITIONS. The image contains an individual shouldering a heavy burden and making his/her way to a town in the distance. Very simply, the card indicates projects or goals that have probably outgrown their original appeal but which we cannot let go for some reason. Our refusal to relinquish these projects may be a result of the fact that we do not know who were are without them. We may have fashioned a persona or public facade out of the endeavor and can no longer throw off the association. (Once an explorer, always an explorer--even long after one has given up exploring.) Other times, it might refer an unhealthy consumption by our wants to the point that we do not realize the toll on ourselves or others. Freud says that the drive impels us toward what we desire irrespective of health, decorum, and even the laws of physical reality at times. Such compulsion--absolute and naked want--is the very essence of this card. The Ten of Cups indicates PERSISTING INTERACTIONS. Many people interpret the image of the adults and children under the rainbow as a happy family, and I don't begrudge that meaning in relation to the phrase that I've generated for it. A family is a good example of a persistent interaction (and indeed, sometimes the card might be referring to intergenerational exchanges). However, it is equally possible to read the card as the same two people who know each other as children and as adults--a presentation of past and present at once to emphasize longevity. The arc of the rainbow, with its many sequential cups, seems to emphasize endurance of an association through time. In addition to family, then, the card might point to any longstanding social connection, perhaps an especially trustworthy collegiality or deep friendship. It can refer to interactions that have weathered difficulty and come out the stronger for it, and even, at times, to those that wither and then suddenly resurface. Someone very close to me once observed that when it comes to relationships, "it's not really over until one of you is dead." He meant that even if you no longer actively cultivate a given relationship (or even if you purposefully cut ties), no one knows what the future holds. The other person altered you in some way before and may end up doing so again. An ever-present susceptibility to those we've known before, then, is a good way to think about this card. The Ten of Swords indicates PERSISTING DEMANDS. The image is harsh: A corpse stabbed ten times in the back. Dark clouds hang over the foreground even as the background is sunny. Very directly, the card points to being utterly devoured by one's responsibilities to others--in a word, martyrdom. Professionals often talk about how the reward for doing work well is often being entrusted with more work. (Academia, I once heard, is like a pie-eating contest where the winner gets more pie.) The important thing to realize about demands is that they are never satisfied; there will always be more to fulfill. Those who come to overly identify with the needs of others risk losing themselves. Thus, the Ten of Swords refers to pressures of unhealthy self-sacrifice for good or ill, or at least to moments of extreme self-denial or asceticism. In some cases, depending on the length of the denial, the card may indicate an impoverished or badly damaged self-concept. In these cases it may refer to a dispositional timidity or diffidence. The Ten of Pentacles indicates PERSISTING RESOURCES. The image is the many generations of a family safe within pleasant grounds. No one seems especially troubled. The card is, then, often an indication of wealth, or at minimum the experience of sustenance--having enough time and money to devote one's attentions to other pursuits. In other cases it may refer to having too much time on one's hands (idleness or ennui), too much money for one's own good (abundance), or too much of both at the same time. The phrase "an embarrassment of riches" is a very precise and apt description of this card; sometimes one has so much that one is ashamed.
sixdegrees Posted July 16, 2020 Author Posted July 16, 2020 (edited) Quite a bit of time has passed since my last entry, in part because of my own evolving relationship to global emergency and unrest. However, it has also taken me this long to work out a satisfactory approach to the RWS court cards. Every idea seemed to be ineffective in the end; none of the concepts that I attached to the cards were as illuminating as I had hoped. A breakthrough finally came when I encountered the Tarot Wheel website while doing some research on Marseille reading (which is a parallel project to this one). The author of this website proposes a fairly original understanding of the tarot suits: Coins refer to one's relationships with oneself, Cups to immediate family and friends, Swords to society broadly, and Batons to the world at large. I encourage people unfamiliar with the website to contemplate the author's defense of these associations--they are fascinating! Something clicked in my head when I encountered this division. As people, the courts of the RWS are essentially about ways of relating, and the suits might therefore indicate the kind of relation. I began building my new approach with this understanding in mind, melding it with my previous understanding of the suits (and in doing so, switching swords and wands): - Pentacle courts reference our most immediate relations to ourselves, the sense of well-being that comes from having ample resources. - Cup courts reference our relations to friends & family, usually the most important interactions in our lives. - Wand courts reference our relations to colleagues & strangers, those with whom we interact in order to achieve our ambitions. - Sword courts reference our relations to the world broadly, our causes and the service to others that we initially experience as demands. I realized that part of what made my previous approaches to the courts untenable was that I was hanging on to the same four-part schema as the minors (i.e. at one point the Page of Wands was "Struggling with Ambition" and the Knight of Cups was "Idealizing Interaction"). But this new approach regarding the scale of relationship made me realize that I didn't have to stick with these same concepts. I could instead move to adjacent concepts that better captured the interpersonal dimension of the courts. So with a little more work I came up with the following: - Pentacle courts indicate evolving relations to the sense of SECURITY and peace (stemming from resources & relations to our well-being) - Cup courts indicate evolving relations to the sense of SUPPORT and love (stemming from interactions & relations with family/friends) - Wand courts indicate evolving relations to the sense of CONFIDENCE and worth (stemming from ambitions & relations with colleagues/strangers) - Sword courts indicate evolving relations to the sense of GLORY and honor (stemming from demands & relations with the world broadly) The essential difference between Wands and Swords--between CONFIDENCE and GLORY--is scale. We gain "confidence" (both in ourselves and from others) when we demonstrate the ability to achieve our ambitions. Others who witness this demonstration come to trust and respect our ability to accomplish tasks, and we derive a sense of self-worth in the process. Wands, then, are essentially about the respect that one earns from proving one's competence through work and effort. We gain "glory," however, when the scale of our achievements is beyond ourselves. When we turn our attention from achieving our own desires to fulfilling the demands of others, our pursuits necessarily become more selfless. Beyond merely have confidence in us, others think us noble or worth renown. Swords, then, are essentially about the respect and even awe that one achieves through devotion. From there it only became a matter of assigning keywords to the court ranks based on my understanding of their essential function: - Pages are youthful & inexperienced, and indicate a state of lacking, needing, or (better) YEARNING for the suit sense. - Knights are focused & dynamic, and indicate a state of PURSUING the suit sense. - Queens are experienced & assured, and indicate a state of ATTRACTING the suit sense. - Kings are accomplished & powerful, and indicate a state of ACHIEVING the suit sense. From one vantage this organization breaks into two pairs. The Page and King indicate lacking and having the suit sense, and the Knight and Queen are two difference approaches or methods for moving from the lacking to the having. Using the same pairing mechanism as the minors, we have 16 key phrases for understanding the minors: Page of Pentacles: YEARNING for SECURITY Knight of Pentacles: PURSUING SECURITY Queen of Pentacles: ATTRACTING SECURITY King of Pentacles: ACHIEVING SECURITY Page of Cups: YEARNING for SUPPORT Knight of Cups: PURSUING SUPPORT Queen of Cups: ATTRACTING SUPPORT King of Cups: ACHIEVING SUPPORT Page of Wands: YEARNING for CONFIDENCE (this one might work better as "NEEDING CONFIDENCE") Knight of Wands: PURSUING CONFIDENCE Queen of Wands: ATTRACTING CONFIDENCE King of Wands: ACHIEVING CONFIDENCE Page of Swords: YEARNING for GLORY Knight of Swords: PURSUING GLORY Queen of Swords: ATTRACTING GLORY King of Swords: ACHIEVING GLORY A note on the Queens: Admittedly, the Queens were the hardest rank to derive a keyword for. In the end I settled on ATTRACTING because it embodies the kind of passive or indirect means by which Queens have often had to function in European history (the major context of the tarot). To "attract" something is to bring it into existence by almost imperceptible means; truly accomplished seduction seems anything but. A knight might attempt to capture something through naked display, but a queen historically could not be so bold. In developing my understanding of the Queens I've drawn quite a bit on Christine de Pizan's Treasure of the City of Ladies, a sort of complement to Machiavelli's The Prince composed nearly a hundred years before and aimed at the young princess (or wife of a male ruler). Here are some choice excerpts that exemplify how a lady in power might operate discreetly in order to achieve her ends: - On marriage: "The wise lady will go to some trouble to keep [her husband's] interest by being pleasant and kind, and if she knows that it is best to mention something to him, she will bring it up sweetly and tactfully when they are alone together. Sometimes she will admonish him out of devotion, at other times out of the kindness that she owes him, and still at other times while smiling, as though she were making a joke of it. Besides this, she will have good people and her confessor speak to him" (Chapter 12). - On children: "It often happens that someone would greatly like to harm the mother but would not dare to do so for fear of the children; she ought to hold them very dear" (Chapter 14). (If I am reading this correctly, children to the powerful lady are a buffer against assassination. That's playing the long game!) - On enemies: "She will not make any sign that she notices it nor that she considers them her enemies. Rather, by being friendly to them she will make them think that she regards them highly as her friends and would never believe that they might be otherwise. They will think that she has more trust in them than in anyone else. But she should be so wise and circumspect that no one can perceive that she does it calculatingly....In spite of all these things and her great dissimulations, she will watch them carefully as she can and stay on her guard. Thus the wise lady will use this discreet pretense and prudent caution, which is not to be thought a vice, but is a great virtue when done in the cause of goodness and peace without injuring anyone in order to avoid a greater misfortune. She will avoid evil and reap benefits if she gives the appearance of not being aware of their offenses. If she acknowledged them, it would cause her to have arguments and quarrels with her enemies and try to avenge herself....By using the method I have described of patience and dissimulation, she can be confident of placating the anger and spite of all her enemies, and at the very least they will never dare to harm her as much as if she had shown herself to be their enemy" (Chapter 15). In sum, ATTRACTING a suit quality involves trying to get it by any indirect or opaque means. This could be accomplished though charade or deceit, as De Pizan explores, but a Queen card could also signify actually having others or "the universe" provide the quality. The Queen of Pentacles, for example, could indicate the fact or assumption that others will provide one with security rather than having to pursue it oneself. In some cases, it is entirely possible that a Queen might indicate that a subject is not even aware that they are attracting the suit quality. One thinks of Ruth Bader Ginsberg as the consummate Queen of Swords, someone who set out only to practice law well and inadvertently has attracted much renown and glory for her work. Finally, I've been toying with the idea that sometimes ATTRACTING might involve doing less (rather than more) to achieve the suit quality. While the Knight of Wands indicates new activity to build confidence, for instance, the Queen of Wands indicates reducing activities to build confidence. And that brings my efforts or concretize the RWS to a close. I'm still happy to chat about any of the ideas in the thread, if others are interested. Edited July 16, 2020 by sixdegrees
Rodney Posted July 17, 2020 Posted July 17, 2020 I can't (and wouldn't even if I could) shoot down your "new system". I think it's well thought through and cohesive even if all of it doesn't resonate with me. But it doesn't have to resonate with me because it's your system! In my copious free time (which is code for the 12th of Never), I'd love to do the same thing for myself! I tend to read the pictures more than I apply "systemized" meanings, so that's why your "new system" doesn't resonate with me. But I just may liberally borrow it for use with Pip decks! 😉
katrinka Posted July 17, 2020 Posted July 17, 2020 On 1/24/2020 at 6:28 PM, sixdegrees said: In fact, it is my frustrations with existing numerological approaches to the RWS minors that has inspired the present work. For example, it baffles me that an author can say in the same breath that threes are about "growth" while the Three of Swords is "heartbreak," perhaps cobbling these together with some claim about "growth from heartbreak" when that's the last thing we feel in the moment of heartbreak. I want to say first that I like what you're doing here, even though I haven't read the whole thread yet. I strongly agree that contemporary Tarot methods tend not to deal in useful information! I suspect what you're doing might be reinventing the wheel to at least some extent, since prior to the modern pop psychology/introspective/nonpredictive style of reading, cartomancy did deal in finances, romance, health, etc. - IOW, useful information! But I do see the Three of Swords a little differently. The threes ARE about growth, but what's growing is Swords suit stuff. So while growth is generally good with the other suits, with Swords you move past the stalemate of the two to the heartbreak of the three. Just another way of looking at it. 😉 Carry on!
sixdegrees Posted July 21, 2020 Author Posted July 21, 2020 On 7/16/2020 at 5:29 PM, Rodney said: I can't (and wouldn't even if I could) shoot down your "new system". I think it's well thought through and cohesive even if all of it doesn't resonate with me. But it doesn't have to resonate with me because it's your system! In my copious free time (which is code for the 12th of Never), I'd love to do the same thing for myself! I tend to read the pictures more than I apply "systemized" meanings, so that's why your "new system" doesn't resonate with me. But I just may liberally borrow it for use with Pip decks! 😉 Thank you for the endorsement. I have always been more of a systematized reader, and this thread represents my latest attempt to bring some orderly understanding (though in terms of picture rather than some abstract understanding of number). Feel free to borrow as much or as little as you want! At some point I may get to posting my approach to reading pip decks (which is quite different, especially in terms of the courts). On 7/17/2020 at 6:26 AM, katrinka said: I want to say first that I like what you're doing here, even though I haven't read the whole thread yet. I strongly agree that contemporary Tarot methods tend not to deal in useful information! I suspect what you're doing might be reinventing the wheel to at least some extent, since prior to the modern pop psychology/introspective/nonpredictive style of reading, cartomancy did deal in finances, romance, health, etc. - IOW, useful information! But I do see the Three of Swords a little differently. The threes ARE about growth, but what's growing is Swords suit stuff. So while growth is generally good with the other suits, with Swords you move past the stalemate of the two to the heartbreak of the three. Just another way of looking at it. 😉 Carry on! Yes, I agree. I find that many of the introspective meanings for the RWS sound good on paper, but then lend themselves to vague and unhelpful messages in practice. For example, the Ace of Cups commonly indicates love and bliss. If that card lands for me as advice about a sticky situation at work, I suppose I can glean from it something like "Concentrate on what you love about the job rather than on what you don't." Fine, but not really helpful in solving my problem. It seems much more effective and pointed to understand the card as suggesting "Look again for an unexpected source of support in the situation, someone who is offering you a hand or at least willing to listen to the story. Meet with this person one-on-one to discuss the matter. Don't be too proud to ask for assistance." You do make a good point about the Three of Swords, and I appreciate you helping me think though what otherwise appears like a stretch to me. In generating my new system, I have tried to come up with specific meanings that nonetheless intersect with classical understandings if/when needed. So, for me the Three of Swords means yielding to the demands of others--doing something you don't necessarily want to do but feel obligated to do. It is a common and readily identifiable situation that might inspire sorrow depending on the person. The same thing is true for the Six of Swords. My understandings of diplomacy and kairos still resonate with the common sense of "a difficult passage" or "moving to smoother waters"; it just provides a new way to think about "navigating" a situation. In integrating this new approach I often begin with the keyword phrase and then integrate the classical understanding if it seems appropriate, but occasionally I do the opposite as well. Perhaps this is where I utilize my intuition!
katrinka Posted July 23, 2020 Posted July 23, 2020 (edited) On 7/21/2020 at 12:11 PM, sixdegrees said: Thank you for the endorsement. I have always been more of a systematized reader, and this thread represents my latest attempt to bring some orderly understanding (though in terms of picture rather than some abstract understanding of number). Feel free to borrow as much or as little as you want! At some point I may get to posting my approach to reading pip decks (which is quite different, especially in terms of the courts). Yes, I agree. I find that many of the introspective meanings for the RWS sound good on paper, but then lend themselves to vague and unhelpful messages in practice. For example, the Ace of Cups commonly indicates love and bliss. If that card lands for me as advice about a sticky situation at work, I suppose I can glean from it something like "Concentrate on what you love about the job rather than on what you don't." Fine, but not really helpful in solving my problem. It seems much more effective and pointed to understand the card as suggesting "Look again for an unexpected source of support in the situation, someone who is offering you a hand or at least willing to listen to the story. Meet with this person one-on-one to discuss the matter. Don't be too proud to ask for assistance." That's a good interpretation. Another thing to keep in mind is the old Marseilles decks, where the Ace of Cups looks like a castle or cathedral, i.e., a building. And since Tarot was/is a deck of playing cards, one can go with "Happiness, the home, residence, family, love, friendship, joy, source, the start of a romance, situations within the home based on surrounding cards." (Kapherus) Even Waite borrowed heavily from The Book of Days. 😉 Quote You do make a good point about the Three of Swords, and I appreciate you helping me think though what otherwise appears like a stretch to me. In generating my new system, I have tried to come up with specific meanings that nonetheless intersect with classical understandings if/when needed. So, for me the Three of Swords means yielding to the demands of others--doing something you don't necessarily want to do but feel obligated to do. It is a common and readily identifiable situation that might inspire sorrow depending on the person. The same thing is true for the Six of Swords. My understandings of diplomacy and kairos still resonate with the common sense of "a difficult passage" or "moving to smoother waters"; it just provides a new way to think about "navigating" a situation. In integrating this new approach I often begin with the keyword phrase and then integrate the classical understanding if it seems appropriate, but occasionally I do the opposite as well. Perhaps this is where I utilize my intuition! I can't take credit for the incrementally-getting-worse Swords. I got that from a book I read years ago, The Encyclopedia of Ancient and Forbidden Knowledge by Zolar. And I don't use these, but they do show the basic template for suits, any working suited deck should have a kind of contrarian "trouble suit", even Lenormand. (Though with that one, it's Clubs.) Compare the odd and even numbered Swords here to the other suits: they're extremely contrarian! Back in the day, we thought this was The Book, lol. I've since learned that "Zolar" was actually a radio personality named Bruce King, and that the book is heavily plagiarized. So I don't have an original source for this. Maybe someone else here can help? It has a kind of Papus flavor... Edited July 23, 2020 by katrinka
sixdegrees Posted July 23, 2020 Author Posted July 23, 2020 It's interesting that you mention this Papus-inspired system; that's actually how I read with the Marseille. I've made some necessary adjustments to suit the imagery or my understanding of the four suits, but the minors are definitely "progressive" in a way that my understanding of the RWS is not. It is nice to see another person's "adjustments" here. Thanks for the information!
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now