Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy...http://groupspaces.com/AberTarotMeditation/page... Create your own group Sign In Connect with Facebook Aberystwyth University Tarot and Meditation Society Home News Events Forum Lesson 1: Introduction to the Tarot Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot Members Files Lesson 1: Introduction to the Tarot Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot Symbol meanings of Tarot are essential to our interpretational process. Indeed, symbols themselves serve as messages from our higher selves and the Universe. A prime reason why the Tarot is such an effective divining tool is because it deals with the common ground of symbols and their meanings. The Tarot is a symbolic oracle, and as such, it is vital for us to recognize and understand its symbol meanings to assure a well-rounded reading of the cards. Common Tarot symbols and their meanings have been included in this lesson for your growth, development and deeper understanding of the Tarot reading craft. As you read the cards, you will notice certain symbols will catch your attention more-so than others. This is no accident. When we gravitate toward specific features in a card, this is your intuition bringing to light important issues. When this happens, consider some of the symbol meanings provided below in conjunction with your reading. This will provide more clarity and insight to your overall reading. Remember, symbol meanings are subject to your own perception. To clarify, if a symbol means something specific to you, then this is the meaning you should assign to that symbol. These pages simply offer a foundation of meanings to work with. Opening the Tarot Door "If our minds are glorious mansions, and our spirits are the surrounding landscape, then the Tarot is a doorway revealing a wide realm of ever-increasing beauty, insight, and mystical experience." --Avia Venefica Important Note: The symbols selected for the creation of these pages were taken from the traditional Rider-Waite Tarot deck. Other deck renditions may not display the same symbols as the Rider-Waite. For example, the Angel symbol is shown on the Rider-Waite "Wheel" card, but is not shown on the Morgan-Greer rendition. Angel: Angels in the Tarot system are symbolic of divine messages. They are messengers of important information. In a reading , their appearance indicates a message (relating to the card) may be coming to the querent in the form of inspiration, divine intervention, or subtlety. Angels also symbolize higher thought and ideals. Lovers / Wheel / Temperance / Judgment / Queen of Swords Ankh: The ankh symbolic meaning deals with immortality and balance. It is a common Egyptian symbol whose meaning is "life." Geometrically, the loop on top represents the sun rising above the horizon represented by the horizontal line. This captures both immortality (the sun shall always rise) and balance (the horizon is female, the sun is male in symbolism). Emperor Arch: Arches are symbolic of openings, passage-ways, and initiations. In a reading, the arch is a symbol of a new direction for the querent. This new opening or path is indicated by the card. 3 of Pentacles / 10 of Pentacles / 4 of Wands Armor: The symbolic meanings of armor deal with protection, preparation, and strength. Most Tarot deck renditions depict all the knights in full armor (knights typically represents action and strength). The armor indicates a need to protect ourselves when engaging in activities referenced in a reading. Emperor / Chariot / Death / Knight of Swords / Knight of Pentacles / Knight of Cups / Knight of Wands / 4 of Swords Bench: The bench is symbolic of taking a moment to examine the details. In a reading, benches indicate the querent needs to sit back, relax, and take some time to examine or savor the situations expressed in the card layout. 3 of Pentacles / 8 of Pentacles / 2 of Swords / 9 of Cups Bird: The symbol meanings of the bird deals with higher thoughts and matters of the spirit. They are creatures of the air, so they symbolize higher ideals. They also represent freedom and ascencion. When the bird symbol pops out at us during a reading it is a message that we are rising to a higher level, that we need to free ourselves from bondage and we must make our hearts light. Wheel / Star / World Blindfold: As one would guess, blindfolds deal with our inability to see things clearly. They represent unwillingness to face the truth, inability to accept the facts, or a sign that something is being hidden from us. In a reading blindfolds are a sign that we need to be honest with ourselves, do more research, and/or get a different perspective 1 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 6 of Swords Brick Wall: Seen in the sun card.. new ideas. Butterflies are shown on the queen and king of sword cards. force and potence. In a reading bridges remind us that the ways and means to accomplish something is always available to us. vices. 2 of Swords / 8 of Swords Boat: Boats are a sign there are some pressing thoughts rumbling within the subconscious. the promise of a new beginning. new beginnings. health. or to others. awareness. fresh starts. In a reading.com/AberTarotMeditation/page. proper moral conduct. the caduceus bodes well for new partnerships. hope. 2 of Cups Castle: Castle symbol meanings deal with goals. harmony.. It also indicates that we mustn't hold ourselves back or sell ourselves short. conflict.this is the basic cloud symbol meaning. energy and ideas. the Caduceus symbol meanings deal with balance. These thoughts will have a tendancy to put us in motion. Lovers / Wheel / Tower / Judgment / World / Ace of Swords / 3 of Swords / 5 of Swords / Page of Swords / King of Swords / Ace of Cups / 4 of Cups / 7 of Cups / Ace of Wands / Ace of Pentacles Dog: Man (and woman's) best friend . When we see the brick wall it is a message that we must be in a state of allowing in order for the good (sun energy) to shine upon us. we might aks ourselves one of the following questions: 1) Where are our loyalties? 2) In what are we 2 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . clouds can also symbolize confusion or clouded judgment. Boats deal with deeper thoughts and the motion (to action) these thoughts produce. Chariot / Ace of Wands / 4 of Wands / 9 of Pentacles / 8 of Swords / 5 of Cups / 7 of Cups Cat: Cats deal with watchfulness. bondage. and therefore they symbolically represent resources or help available to us. When you notice the cities/villages in a reading it indicates a group effort is required. Sun Bridge: Bridges take us from one point to another.Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. When the dog symbol pops out at us. the queen and her cat will make a point that the querent must keep his/her poise (keep your wits about you) and be aware of all sides to the story in the situation relating to the card reading.symbol meanings of the dog deals with fidelity. thoughts. Butterflies go through several changes and transformation before they develop into their final state of beauty. and truth. the cat is a message that there are energies at work that we may not be aware of. Cats are also a symbol of psychic ability. It is shown in the World & Wheel card because the bull (Taurus) is one of the fixed signs of the zodiac. When we see the bull amongst the cards in a reading we know we are dealing with some powerful forces. Sun / 6 of Cups / 10 of Cups / 6 of Swords / 10 of Pentacles City/Village: Cities and villages represent centers or gatherings of people. Children are full of promise for the future and as such they are a symbol of this promise. Queen of Wands Chains: As one might imagine. They are also a symbol of obtaining our desires. They also symbolize protection. and perception. When they show up on the cards in a reading it could mean the beginning of a new venture. a bright idea comes out from nowhere . 5 of Cups Bull: The Bull is a symbol of power. Castles are physical reprsentations of our need to build (block by block) upon a strong foundation in order to obtain our goals. the brick wall is a symbol that you have been holding yourself back or positive events have been prevented from flowing forth due to negative or incorrect thinking. but we can certainly tap into. In a reading boats may also indicate travel. and typically indicate a change in the thoughts of the querent. Featured in the devil card of the Tarot deck.. clouds represent higher thought and messages from the divine. In the five of cups the bridge represents moving from a place of grief or regret on to another phase of life. The bull (and Taurus) also carries symbolic meanings of resistence to change. They are a symbol that we as human do the same thing to reach our end goal and to obtain a better way of thought and living. honesty. and serves as a message that with honor and respect to balance. and a fresh way at looking at the world. Primarily. 4 of Pentacles / 6 of Pentacles / 10 of Pentacles / King of Pentacles / 7 of Swords / 6 of Cups Clouds: Clouds hold the symbol meaning of revelation. and this is another symbolic trait of the boat. Shown on the queen of rods card. Consider out of the mists of our deepest thoughts suddenly an epiphany comes. royalty. protection and cosmic energy. and slavery. or the querent must tap into some energy centers or thought centers to accomplish what he/she must. the symbolic meaning of chains deals with restriction. stability. It may also indicate the querent is joining forces with another party in order to facilitate healing. or it could literally mean children are on their way (new births/adoptions). or someone close in the querent's life. Seen on the two of cups. They are a symbol of the culmination of a group that meets for a common goal. Devil Children: Children represent promise. http://groupspaces. Castles may also deal with sheltering ourselves or limiting ourselves from reaching our goals. loyalty. It indicates there is restriction or addiction revolving around the situation noted in the reading. duality (union of opposites). or movement in a different direction (usually after much thought and deliberation). new relationships shall be fruitful. and team-work. chains are a message that we may be in a situation where we have become a slave to our thoughts. Depending on the card. Wheel / World / King of Pentacles Butterfly: A universal symbol for transformation. being stubborn and inflexible. Queen of Swords / King of Swords Caduceus: Varied in its meaning.. http://groupspaces. and ascension.. The hoe is also 3 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . we are prompted to consider if we are living our lives in-line with our vision." It is also a symbol of comprehension. purity. protection these are primary symbol meanings relating to the hand. They are predominant features on the six of cups and four of rods. and creativity. and what is at the center of our focus. transformation and blessing. it is an indication that achievement is imminent. domination. and representative of the subconscious (see Water symbol meanings). Page of Cups / Knight of Cups / Queen of Cups / King of Cups Flag: When we consider the cards on which the flag is featured (Death. must come down. resourcefulness. transformation. 9 of Pentacles Fire: Fire is a symbol of both creative and destructive power. an event to announce to all who will hear. A common sun symbol among many cultures.totality. meaning we give and receive from hands (energetically and physically). Moon / Fool / 10 of Pentacles Dove: The dove is a common spiritual icon with symbol meanings indicating hope. passion.physically speaking it pumps out life to the rest of the body. the grape is rich in symbolism. the dove is a sacred creature to Aphrodite/Venus. action. When considering the fish symbol meaning. It may also mean we need to hammer out the details relating to work or a project. when the hammer catches our eye in a reading it may indicate that we need to get the job done and done well. unpredictable. cycles. 6 of Cups / 4 of Wands Globes: Often depicted as the world. and again . Death / Sun / Judgment Flowers: As we would guess. In many faiths fire is a symbol representing a test of faith or the measure of one's purity. This very well may be the case in the two cards fire is featured in (Devil & Tower). courage and conscience. All of these attributes come into play when we see these powerpacked fruits in the cards. When we note the heart in our readings we must be mindful of our own center. Emperor / 2 of Wands Grapes/Grapevines: Symbol meanings of grapes and grapevines deal with fertility. bounty and symbolic of youthfulness. or the act of hammering is a sign of getting the point across.or grasping the "bigger picture. the sweet smell of success. When the globe catches our attention on a card. joy. They remind us of the better things in life. inspiration and power. Ace of Cups Falcon: Throughout culture and myth the falcon symbol meanings have pertained to higher vision. The hammer is also a symbol of force. abundance. Ace of Pentacles / Ace of Rods / Ace of Swords / Ace of Cups Heart: As one would assume. masculinity. In Greco-Roman mythology. getting the idea .that which is positive or negative. But the hoe is also a message telling us we can make our way easier by using the resources (tools) that are available to us. It is also a reminder that we are able to both give and receive those attributes pertaining to the referring suit.the flag is about "in-your-face" transformation. joy and compassion into our lives. and therefore is a powerful symbol of love.com/AberTarotMeditation/page. this is a tool. Typically drawn in matters of vocation. Are we living at our highest potential? The falcon asks us to fly high and blaze the sky with our own brilliance. and affection. we must first recognize the nature of the water in which it lives: in motion. Flowers are all about opening up and receiving the light of love. intuition and creativity.this is a message: "whatever goes up. bold obvious sign that a new day is dawning. Sun & Judgment) we get a good concept of its symbol meanings. globes possess symbol meanings of totality . aspiration. 7 of Pentacles / 9 of Pentacles / 10 of Pentacles / King of Pentacles / 3 of Cups / 4 of Wands Hammer: A hammer. Empress / 3 of Swords Hoe: Yes. When Falcon catches our attention on the nine of pentacles. beauty." The globe is also a geometric aspect of the circle which deals with infinity. the falcon also symbolizes potency. the heart has long been as symbol of love. Devil / Tower Fish: It is no coincidence that the fish is featured on all the cups court cards because fish symbol meanings deal with emotion. fly high. Hands are historically seen as points of transmission. This is not about subtle shifts . and as such its sybmolism deals with work.. Bunches of grapes have long been depicted in funerary art and are symbols of redemption. Featured on the ace of cups. ambition. completion. It's no accident that the powerful ace cards are all depicted with a hand holding the suit symbol. or getting the job done. accomplishment. 3 of Pentacles / 8 of Pentacles Hand: Power. Among its many cultural symbol meanings are: energy.." In other words. superiority. It is a bright.something has shifted and a flag makes the world aware of this shift. The fish is a symbol of prolific abundance if we have the wherewithal to harness our own passion responsibly. The symbolic heart is the center of existence . sensitivity and unfolding. We may also ask what we love most . This is a clear message of force and power relating to the indicated suit. Considered the fruit of the earth in both pagan and Christian circles. The heart is also a symbol of truth. vibrancy and power. but they are seen sprinkled throughout many deck renditions (see also the Sunflower symbol meanings entry).Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy.both cosmic and physical. Note the dove (in the Rider-Waite version) is pointing down . and rising above the mundane. growth. The flag is an announcement to change . flowers possess symbol meanings of joy. and the beauty that surrounds us if only we open up to its presence. the good times. we have the whole world "at our fingertips. putting our faith? 3) Are being true to ourselves? The dog in our cards is also a good indication that we're on the right track as they are symbolic of stability and righteousness.. Grapes and grapevines are also found in Greco-Roman art as symbols of hospitality. it is a promising symbol. but ground yourself first. . or if we feel something is being locked away from us. This is evident in the "either/or" nature of the knights.the effects of which can be infinite. they are symbols of our deepest secrets and the tenderest parts of our hearts. When the lion roars at us in the cards we are encouraged to consider the level of our courage. spring is only evident after the thaw. die. The ancient Greeks depicted keys as symbols for knowledge and life. grow. Hermit Lemniscate: The lemniscate (also known as the infinity symbol) is a geometrical represetation of the endless and eternal nature of energy. Death / Sun / Knight of Pentacles / Knight of Swords / Knight of Cups / Knight of Wands / 6 of Wands House: In houses we live. the horse is predispositioned to have a charging nature. http://groupspaces.. and uncovering things that are hidden from us. and vitality. lightning is also viewed as both creator and destroyer in many cultures.keep this in mind when the horn comes to your attention on the Judgment card. and illumination. faith and vigilance (lighting a candle in memory.it is the vehicle for intelligence. Magician / Strength / World / 2 of Pentacles Lightning: Typically the symbol meanings of lightning deal with instant and divine intervention. Magician / Temperance / Ace of Pentacles Lion: Signifying one of the four fixed signs of the zodiac. Also. enlightenment.. victorious. Are we seated in faith or flesh? Are we protecting others or ourselves? Are we being strong or just stubborn? Strength / Wheel / World / 2 of Cups / Queen of Wands / King of Wands Lizard: With symbol meanings of renewal.. boisterous. as well as our thoughts. the lizard makes its appearance on the male court cards in the suit of rods. Judgment Horse: Featured on all the knight cards of the Tarot. The lion is a bit of a paradox . the list goes on. connected to the old adage "what we sew so shall we reap. The symbol meanings of this emblem serve to remind us of the infinite nature of our spirit. Lamps also serve as a devotional symbol and embody the spirit of virtue. and the freedom to be ourselves. royalty. courage. powerful balance with all things in the universe. Tower Lily: The lily has symbol meanings of purity. and protection. When this symbol comes to our attention it may be a message that we should consider the consequences of our thoughts and deeds .Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. Much like lightning. truth. Linked with both fire and water. air) the horse is also a strong spiritual symbol and an emblem of incorporating all the elements to maintain an equal. only more forceful. 7 of Pentacles Horn: Much like the flagsymbol meanings. the horn is also a symbol of announcement. Horns symbolize a joyous. this gives us pause to consider where we are charging to and why. and rebirth. motion. Energy cannot be created or destroyed. as well as lighting the way through the darkest hour). a message for the observer to wake up and pay attention to his/her surroundings. they represent knowledge. the horse symbol meanings deal with strength. and as such. innocence and fertility. action. hide. and we should not be concerned with safety and we are already protected. it simply continues on forever in motion. or should we recruit some help).com/AberTarotMeditation/page. Ice is used in the Tarot to convey a feeling of separation. It is also used to portray a time of deep contemplation or a process of growth that is not perceived until much later (cycle of season) for example. lily symbolism deals with vulnerability. vision. Fool / Hermit / Tower / Judgment / Keys: Keys unlock things. the lily can signal growth. and objection. The keys of the Hierophant card symbolize the keys to spiritual knowledge. Lightning is a major message from a higher source. play. In a reading. development. or it may convey the opposite. lion symbol meanings deal with strength. Depending on the surrounding cards. waiting. patience. In a reading. When these keys catch our attention we may need to ask if we are locking up our potential. earth. and wisdom. water. Lightning was viewed as a creative spark to the Native Americans as it signified the winking Thunderbird. intellect. the lily may also indicate new relationships and births. As such. dream. perhaps it is a message to pay attention to what creative or destructive forces are at work in your life. triumphant announcement. Linked in many ancient traditions with the four elements (fire. and a quality of innocence in our lives. The lily is also a symbolic flower of health and provision. In Hinduism and Buddhism a lamp is a symbol of life. Horns announce both victory and oncoming attack .while standing as a symbol of spiritual valor it is also a symbol for the beastly needs of the flesh. distance. The lizard (or salamander in some renditions) suns itself on these cards to signify the importance of 4 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . 2 of Cups / 6 of Cups / 10 of Cups / 2 of Wands / 8 of Wands / 10 of Wands Ice: Ice symbol meanings deal with isolation. Hierophant Lantern: The lantern carries with it all the symbol meanings that deal with light . In a more mundane sense. When the lightning bolt in the Tower card flashes at you. They signal all within ear-shot that something has happened or is about to happen soon. When houses jump up to our vision in a reading it may be a sign that our security is threatened. cry. the lion is viewed as both savior and destroyer in ancient cultural myth. as well as allowing others to be as they are too. House symbol meanings also deal with protection and the value that we feel we must guard against theft. When the lantern of the Hermit shines brightly to our awareness it is a symbol of clarity coming through and life revealing precious gifts to us." When the hoe pops out at us in the cards (7 of pentacles) we might do well to consider what kind of sewing we are doing and how we are utilizing our resources (are we doing things the hard way. reflection. In other words. we must consider these things. The pomegranate is also a message for us to tap into the luxurious side of life . tentative and fast. and depth. Consider the ocean. When those mountains peak out of the cards into our attention. Priestess / Chariot / Moon / Page of Swords / 8 of Cups / 2 of Swords Mountains: Seen on many of the cards. path symbol meanings deal with direction as well as the path we choose to travel in any phase of our life (family. Page of Wands / Knight of Wands / King of Wands Lobster: Also depicted as a crab or crayfish in other deck renditions.Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. and emerging from one phase into another.what does our heart hold? Our minds? Even our bodies? Depicted in the Star card. and contemplate our place within it. Emperor / Lovers / Strength / Judgment / Fool / Page of Pentacles / Queen of Pentacles / 8 of Swords / 10 of Swords / 8 of Cups / Knight of Cups / Ace of Rods / 2 of Wands / 3 of Wands / 7 of Wands / Page of Wands / Knight of Wands Ocean: Ocean symbol meanings deal with infinite possibilities. and put forth purity.meaning we should recognize the burgeoning power around us. and is associated with female sexuality. and what the realization of our goals may mean for us and those around us. It is a sign that going between may be more adventageous than taking the proverbial high road or low road. love. it is a prompting to consider our level of awareness. career. intuitive side of all of us. Used in many cultures as a symbol of marraige.the expansive and expressive nature of the universe. black or white. the pomegranate with its leathery outer skin and its juicy.recognize the richness. It is also a strongly feminine symbol. attainment. and you will be considering the essence of vastness. rabbits also remind us of the importance 5 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . abundance and wonder that surrounds us at every turn.able to influence oceans. As a vessel. When visions of pomegranates dance in our heads during a reading it is time to consider the power of our divine feminine side.com/AberTarotMeditation/page. fertility. generosity and union. In fact. the pitcher symbol meanings deal with what we are holding in our lives." This is the prime symbol meaning behind the plowed fields we see in the cards. The protective symbolizm is evident in the hard spiney exo-skeleton found with these creatures. nurture. As social creatures. When the pitcher makes itself prominent in your readings. time. Mountains also represent timelessness and an endurance that is infinite. and question the intention and sincerity of the steps we are taking upon each of our paths. the animating force that runs through us . When the oceans in the cards crash their waves against our consciousness. regeneration.the lizard is a tiny reminder that big results come from small. mountain symbol meanings deal with triumph. spirituality. the moon is a sign of the softer. we are keenly interested in the contents. A symbol of demure perspective in the face of monumental physical force . and therefore are very grounding symbols. sweet interior is a symbol of encompassing bliss. Rather than seeing things as left or right. Rabbits are close to the earth. they cast off their shells for new onces.a third option with a new and different perspective.. grab it by the handle. When these fields come in contact with our intuition in a reading. if we invest the time to plant.this is a visual indication that the figurehead of this card has chosen middle-ground. Also a symbol of feminity. it is time to consider matters of diplomacy. and strategy. psychic power. fertility. challenge. When the moon lights up on our readings. lusciousness. the lobster symbol meanings deal with cycles.. Typically.. and realization. we will be rewarded with abundance. we must acknowledge that there may be other (higher) powers at work in our lives and it may be time to release our control in order to allow these powers to open up incredible opportunities to us.). etc. Temperance / Moon / Ace of Pentacles Pillars: Pillar symbol meanings are all about balance. Priestess / Hierophant / Justice / Moon / 3 of Pentacles Pitcher: The pitcher is vessel. we must allow for germination. and the steps we take in-between that create the life we are living. and as such. Priestess / Empress Rabbit: Reflexive. and are the conents coming out of you as pure as they can be? Star Plowed Fields: "As we sew. it is time to pay homage to the great divine . We must also re-evaluate the commitments we've made to our life path. However. balance. It seems in exhaustible and the holder of wonderous things unseen. we should be mindful that what we do and how we do it is pivotal to our harvest. It is also a sign of union with the divine as well as union with others.. so shall we reap. clear waters pouring forth . http://groupspaces. The moon asks us if we listening to our intuition and what are we allowing to influence our direction in life. If we're lazy and sloppy (rushing through as the Knight of Pentacles is want to do) with planting our seeds we will be disappointed with the results. 2 of Pentacles / 5 of Swords / 6 of Swords / 10 of Swords / Page of Cups / Queen of Cups / King of Cups / 2 of Wands / 3 of Wands Path: As you may imagine.a sign that we must be pure vessels in order to expand. When the pillars tower over our readings. it was believed that the lizard renewed its sight by looking into the sun. These creatures are lunar symbols. When the Lobster in the Moon card crawls into our consciousness we're reminded of the cyclical nature in our lives and what protection we may need for the path on which we embark. we may consider the vastness of our universe. and begin to contemplate what kind of vessel you are . Consider the power of the moon . vision in the midst of action. conscious efforts. and protection. Moon Moon: The moon symbol meanings deal with cycles. Paths in our reading are indicative of beginnings. and patience is required as we wait it out for the results we are expecting from our labors. When paths wind their way in our readings. we see the clean. mystery. rabbits symbol meanings deal with decisive action tempered with good judgment. and love. tact. express.. and this is where the rebirth/cycling association plays its part.what are you holding.it takes time to reap our rewards. in ancient times (particularly in alchemical lore). We may also want to consider the heights to which we are climbing. the focal point of the card is planted staunchly betwix two towering pillars . Plowed fields are also a symbol of time . and grow our rows. Page of Pentacles / Knight of Pentacles / 10 of Wands Pomegranates: Pomegranate symbol meanings deal with abundance.. and affect the realm of nature in strong subtle ways. endings. Paths remind us that journeys of a lifetime begin with one small step. reminiscent of passion and luxury. perhaps we can consider a middle road . the rope is a utility . When the scroll flashes at you in a reading it is time to get in touch with the facts that are hidden . and washing away the old in order to accept the new.water . further reinforcing attributes of leadership. get up. future. When Ships sail across your vision in a reading. When we think of ropes. Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac. 3 of Swords Ram: Featured prominently in most decks. However. we can take this symbol meaning as one of clearing. We must also take the thorns into consideration .. Rather. It is a perfect visual measure when something is "out of whack.when we see the rain falling in this card it is a reminder that rain washes away the dirt. High Priestess Shield: Shield symbol meanings deal with defense. often the tighter they become. In the case of the Hanged Man however.it deals with the deeper levels of the psyche and the subconscious. it is a good sign to gather friends and family about us get in touch with our grounding roots. crystally.). http://groupspaces.usually of a secretive nature. or perhaps we need to be a little more flexible in situations at work or home. the rose is a poignant symbol of the beauty that is ready to unfold within each of our hearts. This is a symbolic message that we must be adaptive. protection and covering up. In the case of the three of swords. which is the astral ruler of the Emperor. Fool /Magician / Strength / Death / 2 of Wands Scale: As one would guess. we may have to endure a few stinging thorns (painful ordeals) along the way. Featured in the 9 of Pentacles. Queen of Pentacles Rain: Traditionally. promise. and being all tied up in them. of friends and family. and a reminder that we must take the opportunity to savor the beauty around us." isolation. 9 of Pentacles Snake: Snake symbol meanings deal with renewal.when the scale is tipped more to one side we know we need to take some corrective action. we can derive from this imagery that snow symbol meanings deal with being "out in the cold. Emperor / Queen of Pentacles Ropes: As we would guess. the shield is an unlikely symbol for a card exhibiting virtues of love and abundance. Not only sure of foot snails are also symbols of slow (but steady) progress. it is a sign to take responsibility. Also. Overall. flexible and adjust as best we can to our circumstances. storms DO pass. etc. and stability. and exposure to harsh conditions. The rose symbol meanings deal with the promise of new beginnings and hope. rain has held symbol meanings of cleansing as well as fecundity (ancient cultures honored the rain for its ability to provide life to crops). Also remember that tribulation is a matter of perspective . keep in mind the snow is needed in order to have spring flowers. authority.get to the source of knowledge and educate yourself about what is going on in the situation pertaining to the reading. friends. When the ram butts our attention. and quiet.com/AberTarotMeditation/page. action. However.waiting for us to make a few snow angels in it. Scrolls are symbols of ancient wisdom and sacred knowledge . and are you charting (navigating) out the best course for your thoughts and emotions? Death / 2 of Pentacles / King of Cups / 3 of Wands Snail: Snail symbol meanings deal with steady footing (snails being psuedo pods which actually means "false feet"). Hanged Man Rose: A long-standing symbol of purity. anyone who has stepped outside just after a fresh snow can tell you the beauty is stunning. Justice / 6 of Pentacles Scroll: The scroll symbol meanings deal with knowledge that is carried down from era to era.. and get motivated to accomplish our goals. rope symbol meanings deal with binding. When the flakes fall on your eyes in a reading. scale symbol meanings deal with of equality and balance. even in the midst of the most happy and abundant times the shield is a message for us to protect ourselves from over-indulgence and is a signal for us to make preparations to shield or protect that which we value most (family. confinement or restriction. take action.. Snails carry their homes upon their backs which is symbolic of carrying our security in our hearts (security and happiness in this case is an inside job). success usually comes at a snail's pace. and beauty. Clean. Featured in the Empress card. When the snake slithers across the cards into our consciousness way may need to ask ourselves if we need to shed a part of ourselves to allow further growth." The scale in all its precision shows us which part of our life is out of balance .Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. When the rabbit in the Queen of Pentacles card hops into our awareness it is a good time to consider look before we leap and excercise good judgement as the Queen does. initiative. we understand that stability and success do not appear overnight. The more we struggle with the ties that bind. we often think of knots. and leadership. and we are left with more fertile soil for planting (figuratively speaking) at the end of the storm. 6 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . These are also symbolic qualities of snow. rebirth and development primarily because they shed their skin during each cycle in growth. However a commonly overlooked factor is the medium upon which they said .what kind of baggage (cargo) are you carrying around. we are forced into a state of non-action and this is precisely the answer to our problems. When we are tied up. take into consideration where your thoughts (psyche) are traveling . as it should be for all its indications . The imagery of card is oppressive..with the promise of new hope. and other forefather-type characteristics. the head of the ram has symbol meanings of determination.we can either see the snow as isolation or we can see it as a fresh clean blanket . Empress Ship: Yes.it serves as a necessity in order to pull away from our internal knots. Magician / Lovers / Wheel of Fortune / 7 of Cups Snow: Featured on the 5 of Pentacles. of course ship symbol meanings deal with travel and journey's. Snakes are also cold-blooded which means they depend on their environment for their body temperature. The ram is also a symbol of Aries. direction. When the sphinx paws its way into our attention in a reading we are called to answer a riddle .com/AberTarotMeditation/page. or rising) as its position is also symbolic. pay attention to its position in the sky (setting. High Priestess / Empress / Queen of Swords Wolf: The wolf is a symbol of our primal urges and bears its teeth at our every attempt to be conventional. it deals with coming out of poorly suited mind-sets and freeing ourselves from tomb-like belief systems. its symbolic meanings are endless. Often this period of "coming out" occur after much time of stagnation . father. growth. The art of staining glass reaches back to ancient alchemy when certain compounds (i. When you seem to be looking through the stained glass windows of your reading. When the sunflower nods at us in a reading it is time to look away from the dark (negativity) and look to the light (positive) side of things. Thus the star symbol meanings deal with shedding light on our lives. first-attempts. mid-day. The sphinx's physical construct (part man part beast) is also symbolic of the senses.another facet of the tomb . phsyical and spiritual) can change according to our perception and beliefs. energy. any debris in the midst of a waterfall is subject to its pull. this may be another consideration in your reading.where we are once interred or encased for a time. setting indicates and ending or transition and mid-day indicates going full force in creative endeavors. The triangle also deals with the love represented in the mother. Death / Temperance / Sun / Fool Sunflower: If you've ever observed this happy flower.using all of our senses and determing the secrets that may be holding us back. Take a close look at the context of the "wall cards" in relation to the rest of the reading . When the stars in the cards featured below wink at us in a reading you know it is time to look to a higher source for direction. Long considered to be a tyrant in myth . we evolve from our tomb into a new phase of understanding. Rather. we see they typically move at such a rushing speed that they tend to take everything with them in their path . Judgment / 4 of Swords Triangle: In Ancient Egypt the Triangle was seen as a symbol of intelligence and indicated the capacity for love. the wolf is also a symbol of loyalty and intelligence..e. Observing the nature of waterfalls. trees. it is time to re-focus on our core desires and compare them with our loyalties. this symbol has long been recognized as a sign of balance and creativity. and as such is carries a meaning of new beginnings. single-mindedness in thought as well as deed. When we have a need to keep one area of our lives separate from another. and again. and realize the starry light within our hearts can also illuminate our way. Magician / Emperor / Chariot / Hermit / 8 of Cups Stained Glass: Stained glass is symbolic of perception and how our vision (mental. Rising the sun is a symbol of new beginings. The Buddhists utilze this geometric pattern in the Sri Yantra mandala as a tool to invoke the energy of love. Simply put. Empress / Chariot / Star Sun: So much is dependent upon the existence of the sun. As a member of the canine family. it's a sign to begin getting honest about your perception of the situation. The staff is also a symbolic representation of the numeral one. the walls in the cards show themselves to us in a reading. Further. When the wolf comes howling out of the cards in a reading. walls deal with separating one area from another. and providing consistency when our lives seem to be topsy-turvey.rocks. When the sun shines upon your consciousness in a reading. and creativity. direction and guidance.. Simply put . This is a lesson that when we are not in control of our emotions and thoughts then they control us . the waterfall leads to a plummeting drop and a crashing end against jagged rocks. Additionally. When we see the tomb in our readings we must not misunderstand the message. Primarily. King of Pentacles / 2 of Wands Waterfall: Water is a symbol of emotion and the subconscious.potentially leading us down a rocky demise. we have been looking to them for illumination. With this parameter in mind. or looking at things through "rose colored glasses?" 5 of Pentacles / 4 of Swords Star: As long as we have been able to look up at the stars. 5 of Pentacles Sphinx: Symbolic meaning of the sphinx deals with guardianship and protection of the secrets of life. the sphinx was said to incessanty provoke passersby with riddles.. and single-ness of purpose. offering us navigation when we need it. stability. but keeping on the "sunny side" as the sunflower does assures a more sunny disposition. Temerpance Wall: See also "brick wall" in the symbol meanings (A-C) page. Chariot / Wheel of Fortune Staff: Here we are recognizing staff's found in the cards that are specifically used for support by the archetypes in the cards.. Are you seeing things clearly. This is the message of the sunflower "always look to the light" for the answers and guidance you seek. Sun / Queen of Wands Tomb: Tomb symbol meanings deal with laying to rest the thoughts and things that no longer serve us. This symbol has very little to do with physical death.are we being true to our core self or are we trying to "fit in" or measure up with the image we feel we must sustain in the societal view.what are the cards indicating you separate? Walls also deal with the need for privacy.Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. Moon / Wheel of Fortune 7 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 . waterfalls deal with the constant running and flowing movement of our emotions and the stirring movements of our deeper minds. the sun is a symbol of expansion. This is symbolic that we must not let our emotions run away from us. you've noticed that its head always looks to the sun. http://groupspaces. Therefore. child union as well as the holy trinity. It sounds cliche.: antimony windows) were mixed with glass to bring about transformational effects upon the viewer. staff symbol meanings deal with support. only those who could answer their riddles were allowed entrance into the gates they guard. shuffle the cards carefully. present and future energy around them. Basic Time frame Spread What the Spread Reveals This is a very simple yet useful spread.This card reflects the effect of the second focus card. Wreaths of this type have long been a symbol of victory ever since the first ancient games upon mount Olympus where the victor was crowned in laurels (hence the term "resting on his laurels" comes when one relies on his/her credentials rather than further drive/action). They include the top row of titles. Right Card: The Outcome . that can have a wide range of meanings assigned to each of the three positions.Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy.This card reflects a new set of circumstances that are about to act upon the Querant. Fool / World / 6 of Wands / 7 of Cups Three Card Reading in Tarot To help you understand and clarify available options before taking action to solve a problem or pursue a goal (focus).. of "Past . This is easiest when you let your ego and conscious mind relax.This card reveals what the Querant is feeling and experiencing at the moment. based on the first two cards. spread them out in a long line in front of you.Outcome" and the bottom titles which introduce a timeline approach. A sweet smelling laurel wreath is also a symbol of protection. It is a message that the favor of the Gods is upon us. Timeline Approach This spread will help you to learn to apply the tarot to help you to explore the forces that are influencing the Querant. It shows the outcome that comes with the new circumstances." To begin this spread. "Context . peace and purification and is associated with the god Apollo. then allow your Higher Self to draw three cards from the deck. Left Card: The Past .. Wreath: Typically wreaths of laurel are depicted on the various feature cards (listed below). which introduces a problem or decision focused approach. Problem Solving or Decision Making Approach This spread will help you to learn to apply the tarot to figure out how to approach a problem or decision.This card reflects a general overview of the Querant's present situation.com/AberTarotMeditation/page. the forces that drive these may be positive or negative depending on the card and whether it is upright or inverse. and that we shall be the victor in this stage of our lives. Each step should be done carefully and with calm focus.The card predicts the result of the course of action that the Querant will take. Center Card: The Present . Two of these are presented here for your consideration. Left Card: The Context .. This card is the general problem or the decision to be made. http://groupspaces.Focus . the results of the problem solving and/or decision-making. Right Card: The Future .Present Future. the ones that cast a light on the current situation.This card shows the Querant's past experiences. 8 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 .. and allow your Higher Self to speak to you through the cards you draw. by looking at the past. Center Card: The Focus . ...com/AberTarotMeditation/page. Aberystwyth University Tarot and Meditation Society Networks: Aberystwyth University Powered by GroupSpaces · Terms · Privacy Policy · Cookie Use · Create Your Own Group 9 of 9 05/12/14 20:16 .Lesson 2: The Symbols found in Tarot : Aberystwy. http://groupspaces..