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Tarot Symbolism |
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Each of the 78 scenic images of the RWS (Rider Waite Smith) Tarot deck contain a number of symbols. When familiar with their meanings and possible interpretations, it is easier to "read" and interpret the cards. Major Arcana Symbols: 0 - The Fool White rose in hand - the soul, the heart, love. White = purity, innocence Bundle on stick - provisions, potential, possessions (not much = flexible, light, independent). Stick = wand Sun/Sky - blue, sunny, warm; the right time to travel, make a move Mountains - obstacles, problems, difficulties in the far distance Cliff - pitfall Dog - instinct, spirit guide, warning from the intellect or playfulness Orange - zest for life, energy Yellow - Air, thoughts Eagle's head on bag - soaring spirit Fool's Posture - open, receptive, trusting, happy-go-lucky, facing left (yin, feminine, unconscious) 1 - The Magician Lemniscate above his head - symbol of eternity; infinite potential, connection with universal principles Red/White clothing - Alchemy; alchemical process catalyst for change Red roses - passion White lilies - purity, higher spirit Objects on the table - 4 elements (4 Minor Arcana suits); possibilities, choices, potential Garden - nature's sacred space; emotional and creative power Magician's Posture - As above so below; making something real; manifesting spirit force by connecting heaven and earth. Wand - lightning rod; energy 2 - The High Priestess White gown - purity Headdress - three aspects of the moon (symbol of the Egyptian goddess Isis) Equal-armed cross - uniting masculine and feminine powers High Priestess's Posture - right hand of power is hidden; left hand holding the Tora, Jewish book of law/5 books of Moses Veil - something hidden, the unconscious/hidden knowledge Water behind the veil - unconscious, intuition, mysteries Pomegranates on veil - fruit of the Underworld, a connection to the myth of Persephone, who spent a third of her life in the Underworld with Hades, because she ate the seeds of the Pomegranate Palm trees - ability to create through action (fanning), masculine, assertive energy Columns - entrance to King Solomon's Temple of Wisdom, Hebrew temple in Jerusalem B and J - Boaz and Jakin, names of the two main pillars of King Solomon's temple Black and white - opposites, night and day, yin and yang Lunar crescent - beginning of esoteric cycle 3 - The Empress Empress's Posture - comfort, luxury Sceptre in right hand - taking the lead, creatrive energy Gown - pomegranates; link with High Priestess, two aspects of the feminine Headdress - 12 stars of the zodiac Shield - heart-shaped, gentleness, passion; symbol for Venus, Goddess of love and beauty Trees - growth, wisdom River - feelings, nurture, emotions, life force, change Corn - Fruitfulness, fertility Red - passion, love Yellow - gold, the sun 4 - The Emperor Emperor's posture - sitting straight, full-face image, confident, decisive, focused Clothing - red cloth over armour, protection; ram shield symbolising Zodiac sign Aries Red and white - in crown, white beard, red cloak: alchemy Sceptre in right hand - yang (ankh, symbol of life) Orb in left hand - yin Sceptre and orb - two contrasting elements, balance Ram - Aries, assertive power, force, Aries rules the head, 1st sign of the Zodiac: new life Background - bare, desolate mountains - limitations, water - little emotions Stone throne - long-lasting, rigid Red - colour of Aries, Mars Yellow - Sun
To be continued….
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