After the Sevens, we are now experiencing a sense of revival with the Eights in the Tarot.
In numerology, Eight is the number of regeneration and renewal, linked to the (eight-pointed) Star, number 17 of the Major Arcana.
Eight also represents cosmic balance.
On its side, the shape of this number becomes the lemniscate, a symbol for the eternal balancing of opposites, which can be found above the heads of the Magician and Strength in the Rider Waite Smith Tarot.
And on the Wheel of Fortune, the eight-spoke wheel reflects the perpetual balancing act symbolised by this number.
The hourglass shape of this number symbolises the passing of time.
After having sorted through the options available in the Sevens, decisions are being made about what to keep and what to release.
Flux and movement is a common theme of the eights in the tarot together with energy, thrust, evolution, restriction, persistence, resilience, expansion.
Priorities are set, and a new order is being established.
Eight of Wands – action, movement, change, initiative, energy
Esoteric Title: The Lord of Swiftness
Astrological Attribution: Mercury in Sagittarius – quick thinking and acting, swiftness, travel, excitement, adventure, rapid communication
Interpretation: finger on the pulse, living in the fast lane, creative overdrive, bright ideas, volatility, electricity, information overload, flux, momentum
Image symbolism:
Rollercoaster – the ups and downs of life, excitement, risks, intensity
Red, orange, yellow colours – fire energy
Eight of Cups – moving on, resignation, quest, uncertainty, insecurity, sadness
Esoteric Title: The Lord of Abandoned Success
Astrological Attribution: Saturn in Pisces – Leaving comfort zone behind, outgrown an established situation, feeling restricted or tied down, embracing change, following your heart
Interpretation: a comfortable situation has become stale and sluggish; in need of a fresh perspective; abandonment; letting go, detachment, sombre mood
Image symbolism:
Waning moon – ending
Path in front – new direction
Lake – water, feelings
Red/white roses – mixed emotions, alchemy, balancing emotions
Horizon – new possibilities
Eight of Swords – restrictions, crisis, isolation, suppression, helplessness, indecision
Esoteric Title: The Lord of Shortened Force
Astrological Attribution: Jupiter in Gemini – recognising self-restrictions, need for change and expansion, making conscious choices to create movement; restlessness, communication
Interpretation: obstacles, limitations, narrow-mindedness, victim mentality, entrapment, feeling trapped, helplessness, need to sharpen the mind and will to overcome obstructions
Image symbolism:
Surrounded by walls – restriction, limited view
Sky, windows – way out, possible solutions
Night time – lack of vision
Eight of Pentacles -eagerness, mastery, development, effort, productivity, quality
Esoteric Title: The Lord of Prudence
Astrological Attribution: Sun in Virgo – growing and nurturing skills; quality work, working towards perfection, paying attention to detail
Interpretation: continuous effort, discipline and perseverance, regular investment, aptitude, tenacity, industrious, practice makes perfect
Image symbolism:
Washing hanging to dry – waiting for investments to mature, reaping the harvest, repetitive work
Stars leading up – moving up on career ladder, self-improvement, advance
You can view all images of the Tarot of Quotes in the Gallery.
The Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook is now available to download, which also includes a printable mini edition of the Cosmic Faery Tarot.
Warmest wishes,
Christiane
