Walk the Path with Tarot: Major Arcana |
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Part II: Forces you encounter along the way, sometimes beyond our control.
VIII - Strength
It is the mastery of the lower self by the higher.It is the power of the Spirit that gives the strength to subdue and check the rising tide of passion. In its exalted aspect, Strength connects with the Divine, she fosters virtue that applies in all planes.
This card suggests that which is steadfast and enduring. With feet solid on the ground, passions are kept in check, she will only do battle for the right reasons. This card brings a strong sense of mental power when faced with adversity. Honor is ultimate with this card.
IX - Hermit
He is the eternal seeker - the Pilgrim Soul. His beacon of wisdom and knowledge illuminates the world below him as he beckons: Where I am, you also may be. Eternal Spring is in his heart.
With this card, think things over, evaluate carefully your options. Sometimes it helps to withdraw or retreat from a situation or issue. Being too emotionally involved with the problem may cloud the decision-making process. Let a bright light come on to help you gain a better perspective.
X - Wheel of Fortune
On the Tree of Life, the Wheel is placed on the Pillar of Mercy. As it revolves, you can see the changing influence of Light and Dark, the steps that eventually lead to liberation. The Wheel signifies the perpetual motion of the universe and highlights the continuous changing cycles of human existence. It shows that equilibrium is attainable.
The Wheel stands for the cycles of life, changes that are in store. Man does not stand still, neither does time. Sometimes it calls attention to recurring patterns in your life. It is may also reflect the laws of Karma, cause and effect. This card may allude to the mystery of life, to seek higher consciousness, to appreciate the essence of being. Look forward to new opportunities, be in sync with the cyclical patterns, at times, it may be the destiny calling.
XI - Justice
This card shows the scales of Justice. She has the authority to pass judgment, so that laws are obeyed. She protects law and order and moral principles. It is with enlightenment that she passed judgment.
This card depicts the balance that is possible after a stressful time. It requires that Justice will be served according to principles, and dealt with love and compassion. It calls your attention to look at your life, are you in balance and harmony with the cosmos? This card asks that you take time to honor yourself, and not give up your personal power.
XII - The Hanged Man
This is a card of sacrifice. It speaks of the submission to the material bonds in order to bring out what is sublime in the higher consciousness. This requires a quiet time for contemplation, to emerge stronger.For those who seek higher illumination, the work is never complete, thus the recurring visit of the Hanged Man.
Take a rest, give yourself some time alone, after going through tough times. New ideas will come forth to help smooth out difficulties, a better perspective and a new attitude emerging.
XIII - Death
This is a most feared card, feared for the drastic events it may bring. The skeleton survives the destructive power of time, but is the basis for re-structuring. It symbolizes rebirth, renewal, new beginnings.
This card denotes drastic changes, lessons learned from past mistakes and faiures, the chance to rise from the ashes of destruction. It restores the faith in love, it will conquer the darkness that fear brought. It offers new beginnings. Rarely does the Death card signify actual physical death.
XIV - Temperance
This card projects equilibrium. It calls you to be moderate in every endeavour you pursue. An angel blends fire and water- inspiration and intuition the element Fire evokes and the emotions that Water symbolize. Temperance encourages you to understand the hidden energies available to you, to exercise moderation in all that you do, to avoid being a slave to lifes excesses. Listen, look deep within, and be in tune with your inner self.
This card indicates one who has learned lessons about patience and living in the moment. It is a realization that moderation in life is necessary, if you are to maintain balance and harmony.
Go onto Part III...
Article © Bonnie Moss, 2004.
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