tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75609878568493854292024-03-05T09:31:05.964-08:00Tarot DecipherAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comBlogger7125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-11675165723175423212009-09-22T18:42:00.001-07:002015-07-18T02:56:14.270-07:00The King of Kings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i style="text-align: justify;">"Set all things in their own particular place, and know that order is the greates grace.” – John Dryden</i><br />
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I met the Emperor a couple of weeks ago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, he was not wearing any regales that could tell me that he belongs to a special cast of humans <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span> I have this habit of asking the cards every time I meet a new person. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So this time was no exception. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What does this person represent?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What energy does this person bring to my life?” The answer was <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>– The Emperor. </div>
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But it wouldn’t be that interesting if the guy I am talking about wouldn’t have read this blog. And after that, wouldn’t have googled one of those online tarot readings and wouldn’t have drawn the Emperor himself! He complained though that the brief description provided with the card did not resonate with him at all, meaning that he didn’t see himself as materialistic as the description suggested.</div>
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Funny enough, the first four letters of his name – “raja” – mean “king” in his language. The King, The Zar, The Emperor…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Quite straightforward! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He used to study IT and then switched to Business Administration – the disciplines that are not abstract and speculative. He is straightforward, bold, intellectually developed, eloquent, and full of poise. He claims that philosophy is his passion and that he’s good at psychological analysis people.</div>
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When I look at the Emperor, the 4<sup>th</sup> major arcana, I notice that his gaze is <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>turned rightward, so that if you follow it, you come to see The Empress (card 3), his wife. However, if you look leftward, you’ll see the Hierophant (or the Pope). The ruler of the kingdom is squeezed in between the material, earthly, motherly influence of the Empress and the spiritual, religious, philosophical, and highly traditional influence of the Hierophant, thus representing both of them as a result. This being said, I do not agree with those Taroists who perceive the Emperor as a purely material actor. </div>
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For some reason the card number 4 evokes the image of the famous King Solomon who was known to be great in wisdom, wealth, and power. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Solomon is commemorated as a saint, with the title of "Righteous Prophet and King." <span class="apple-style-span">As any king, Solomon indulged himself in many sinful pleasures, the biggest of which being idolatry, while building temples (on most Russian icons he’s portrayed holding a model of a temple in one hand). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Emperor is a card of leadership, often at a higher level. It represents stable government, worldly wealth and power, authority, self-discipline and the rule of law. There is passion (signified by red as the dominant color of the card), but intellect dominates intuition. He is a leader with gravity, authority, and dignity who is parental in attitude. The knight’s armor under his clothes indicates that although now he is just sitting on his throne, he’s ready to get up any minute and fight for what is important to him, be it of physical or spiritual value. <span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: black; font-family: "; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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The qualities assigned to the Emperor's archetype include organization, analysis, leadership, categorization, problem-solving, logical and strategic planning. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-40288901232505556022009-08-18T23:35:00.000-07:002015-07-17T05:14:31.056-07:00The Lesson of Temperance<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkg0wHX8vpkErtPcn1IbHjV1bqMslQ2cjJcPoZ9RoNI7D1uR_F2m_GwPt76B2ER7Aj3zZofn7kPhyphenhyphenP3-By5cbjzMlfgTlftfU8MXAvGp4y3LPnwJnnlemJ-gA32T0P349fqrV1zG4L4Gg/s1600/16+grape+pop+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkg0wHX8vpkErtPcn1IbHjV1bqMslQ2cjJcPoZ9RoNI7D1uR_F2m_GwPt76B2ER7Aj3zZofn7kPhyphenhyphenP3-By5cbjzMlfgTlftfU8MXAvGp4y3LPnwJnnlemJ-gA32T0P349fqrV1zG4L4Gg/s320/16+grape+pop+2.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">You carry all the ingredients to turn your existence into joy. Mix them, mix them!</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">- Hafiz</span><br />
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Indeed, the Tarot cards can give interesting messages to those who are ready to hear and see. Today I was talking to my friend, who is currently on an emotional roller coaster. She’s flooded by impulse. She’s a true fire, unstoppable and powerful. As a result, she says and does things that she regrets about later on – but the damage is done. While she was talking, I decided to pose a question to my cards: “What advice can I give her?” I drew Temperance.<br />
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First thing you notice about card number 14 is the figure of an angel with his wings spread out wide. Why an angel? - I asked myself. And my first impulse was to look at the preceding card, which is Death (number 13 ;))). Death in the Tarot represents ending, transition, and elimination. It’s closing one door to open another. An angel is an immortal soul that was liberated by death. It was purified on stage 13, cut out what isn’t necessary.<br />
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When I started to look deeper, I saw duality of the card. Two wings, two cups, two irises, two mountains far away, two sun beams (one over the mountains, another – over the angel’s head). Then I noticed symbolic opposites. One of the angel’s feet is in water, representing emotional force, intuition, subconscious. Another is on soil – the embodiment of material force, prosperity, practicality, conscious. His wings are red (like fire: passion, physical energy, strength), while his robe is white (like snow: purity, clarity, focus, spiritual guidance).<br />
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Now, I looked back at the bigger picture and marveled at how peaceful and balanced it is, despite all of its opposites! That’s what temperance is about. The balance of opposites.<br />
It’s also about composure and concentration. Just look at the angel when he, holding two cups, tries to pour water between them, without spilling it. Look at how his hands holding the cups are parallel to his feet.<br />
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There are two geometric figures on the angel. One is a circle on the forehead (right where the crown chakra is). Another is the triangle at the heart chakra. I feel like this triangle serves as an arrow that point to the head, as though saying – Take your heart’s desires and bring them to your mind! And the golden circle is literarily a Golden Middle. So the whole message is – “Mix and match the opposites, until you reach the golden middle!” Truly a wise message.<br />
And then the flowers… Why of all the flowers possible, this card pictures two irises? I googled the meaning of the flower, and boy was I surprised! “The Greek word ~Iris~ means ~rainbow.~ The flower got its name from the Greek goddess Iris, the goddess of the rainbow, who was a messenger on Mount Olympus. Iris would take messages from ~the eye of Heaven~ to earth by the arc of the rainbow.”<br />
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So the angel, with the rainbow over his head, is the Greek goddess Iris who was believed to be the liaison between two worlds! And we can see the road leading to the Olympus, crowned by the sun. Iris walked down to bring us the message of balance and unity of opposites. Her head is also shining, meaning that she came from the Higher world.<br />
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Another aspect worth noticing is that the angel stands on the way to the mountain’s path. In order to reach the top of self-realization and enlightenment, you need to master the lesson of Temperance. Especially taking into consideration that the following card is the Devil, who brings carnal excess, self-indulgence, greed, destruction, and materialism.<br />
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The word temperance comes from the Greek word “temperare” (modern “temper”) meaning “mix” or “combine properly.” So here’s another message in this card. There is no need in choosing one over another (as the Justice card calls), black over white, bad over good, spiritual over mundane, heart over mind. Everything has its meaning and purpose, and should be mixed in right proportion, so that the new harmonized substance could be produced. Just like the rainbow… So many different colors, none of which is domineering. Actually, the rainbow itself is the mix of water and sun light!<br />
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As for my friend’s situation, the card number 14 is to the point. She needs to recognize her emotions and impulses, not run away from them, admit that they can be destructive to her and others, if not diluted with some thoughtfulness. Temperance calls for finding the middle ground, reaching a compromise, offsetting an extreme, experiencing harmony, bringing together opposite, recognizing all sides, feeling centered and secure. It’s a hard job, and it requires conscious effort. How? You are a Hermit, you know where to search - within yourself! But it will prove worthwhile when you meet the Devil and discover that he is not as scary as portrayed by many ;)))</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-38921518201410437792009-08-18T13:11:00.000-07:002015-07-17T05:17:33.151-07:00Spirit Card Meanings and Advice<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_c4tJEZGPOWDrSSPPXPSI3k2coTZ6W2R1Wz547tR2C-sBqMJnPQlSc7OoPwBRY0p55w5oVLRnJ79bJvGlDFuLUOd3d0HVf7Yg1tdhK-7hRaVXSl_agcxvaKXYfaoG4igvQwhAFpupvbU/s1600/6tag-51434728-871832371228960459_51434728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_c4tJEZGPOWDrSSPPXPSI3k2coTZ6W2R1Wz547tR2C-sBqMJnPQlSc7OoPwBRY0p55w5oVLRnJ79bJvGlDFuLUOd3d0HVf7Yg1tdhK-7hRaVXSl_agcxvaKXYfaoG4igvQwhAFpupvbU/s320/6tag-51434728-871832371228960459_51434728.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">0 (22) - The Fool</span><br />
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If this is your card, your Spirit simply begs for knowledge. And that's being the case, it's your job to soak it up. Study, learn, and share your findings with others. Know that those who learn form you will have something to teach you as well.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">1 - The Magician</span><br />
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Should the Magician appear as your Spirit card, you have a very important purpose. You're here to solve problems, repair relationships, and turn situations around for the good of all. There's no need to become overwhelmed, though. Just fix one thing at a time, and know that the world will become a better place for your efforts.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">2 - The High Priestess</span><br />
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Connection is the key to High Priestess. And when it appears as the Spirit card, it signals a direct link between the worlds of spirit and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">mundane</span>. Know that you are the conduit from which all information flows, and it's your job to help others stay balanced between the two realms.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">3 - The Empress</span><br />
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If the Empress is your Spirit card, you were born to nurture others. It's up to you to support goals, fertilize dreams, and help them to blossom into reality. Your mission is also one of unconditional love. Remember, though, that this sort of love never assumes or binds. It flows, instead, on a steady course - constant, fluid, and all-encompassing.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">4 - The Emperor</span><br />
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When the Emperor appears as the Spirit card, it's your job to advise. That being the case, always look at every angle of a situation before opening your mouth. If you must be critical, be constructive. In doing so, you'll ease the path of others as they travel life's journey.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">5 - The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hierophant</span></span><br />
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Although the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hierophant</span> is usually seen as a nonconformist of sorts, in the position of the Spirit card, it denotes the ultimate explorer. This means that it's up to you to present options, possibilities, and fresh perspectives to those who wouldn't otherwise see them. This is, by no means, an easy job. Know, however, that it is an important one in the Universal scheme of things.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">6 - The Lovers</span><br />
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When the Lovers appears as the Spirit card, your mission falls within the realm of relationships - both intimate and otherwise. It's your job to help others not only see the value of commitment, fair play, and constant communication, but to help them follow through. It doesn't stop there, though. The other part of your mission is to point out any harmful relationships, and give others the courage to end them.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">7 - The Chariot</span><br />
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When it comes to the Tarot, the Chariot is the ultimate mover and shaker. Falling in the position of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Spirit</span> card, though, its mission is one of completion. That being the case, it's your job to help others take action and follow through - even in seemingly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">impossible</span> situations. In doing so, you will not only help them to understand that nothing is attainable, but give them the courage to move forward on their chosen path.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">8 - Strength</span><br />
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Strength in the position of the Spirit card has nothing to do with brute force. Instead, it's a matter of helping others stand up for their beliefs, and what they feel is right and wrong. There's also another side to the coin here, though. It's also up to you to help them see when their beliefs are flawed, to give them the courage to admit it, and to assist them in stepping down from the soapbox before others follow their lead.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">9 - The Hermit</span><br />
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When the Hermit appears as a Spiritual card, it means that you are the keeper of the Universal light. And as good as it sounds, it's not an easy job. Why? Because your mission is not only to help instill self-confidence and self-worth in others, but to convince them to let their personal lights - talents, abilities, etc. - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">shine forth</span> to guide the rest of the world. Know that by doing your job well, you'll do more that help those around you see their personal value - you'll make the world a better place to live.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">10 - The Wheel of Fortune</span><br />
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The Wheel of Fortune spins in constant motion, and if this is your Spirit card, you probably feel like you're on a merry-go-round with no chance of stopping. This is normal, for it's your job to help others handle the ups and downs of everyday living. Celebrate when they're on top. Speak words of encouragement when they're down. And always keep them mindful of the turning wheel - for when things hit the bottom, there's no place to go but up again.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">11 - Justice</span><br />
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If Justice is your Spirit card, you were born with a natural sense of fair play. That being the case, it's your mission to point out when others have gone too far, or when they need to back off and reevaluate But that's not all. It's also important to lend encouragement to those who have difficulty standing up for themselves. Only then will they get a fair shake and receive the justice they so sorely deserve.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">12 - The Hanged Man</span><br />
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In the Spirit card position, the Hanged One represents the balance between the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">mundane</span> world and that of spirit. This means that it's up to you to help others see the importance of both. Too much of one or the other, and life becomes difficult. Helping them to strike an equal balance will not only make their lives easier, but bring a feeling of accomplishment you've never attained before.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">13 - Death</span><br />
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Of all the cards in the Major Arcana, Death is, perhaps, the most misunderstood - especially when it comes to its appearance as the Spiritual card. Your mission here has nothing to do with death at all. Rather, it's up to you to point out when it's time to stop, when it's time to start over, and when it's time to bring fresh ideas into play. This is a very important job in the Universal Plan, for without your help, the realms of reality and spirituality would truly cease to exist.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">14 - Temperance</span><br />
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Patience, moderation, and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">simplicity</span> are key when Temperance arrives as the Spirit card. And in our fast-paced world of "<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">more is</span> better," that makes your mission very important. For this reason, actively search out ways to help others understand that they should never settle for what's available, for that which is worthwhile is always worth waiting for. It's also important to show that a simple life - void of societal and material trappings - makes the path of life much easier to tread.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">15 - The Devil</span><br />
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Like Death, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">the</span> Devil card is very misunderstood - especially when it comes to the Spirit card position. Simply put, your mission involves teaching others to grab the good in life, and to understand that they deserved it. This often takes some doing, though, since human beings tend to sabotage themselves when extraordinary luck comes their way. In this case, it's your job to make them see that the Universe offers only what is necessary, and refusing its help is paramount to the proverbial slap in the face.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">16 - The Tower</span><br />
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When the Tower appears in the Spirit card position, your mission is that of mover and shaker. It's up to you to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">offer</span> new ideas and fresh <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">perspectives</span> even when it isn't popular. Know that it's often necessary to pull the rug out from under those who stagnate, for change - while seldom pleasant - is always imminent. And without it, humankind will cease to evolve. This makes your job very important, indeed.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">17 - The Star</span><br />
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The Star holds, perhaps, one of the most important Spirit purposes of all. Simply put, it is that of giving hope. That being the case, it's your job to help others to love themselves, and to feel good about themselves. Once you do, they'll realize that no personal goal - no matter how impossible it seems at the onset - is unachievable.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">18 - The Moon</span><br />
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When the Moon rises to the Spirit card position, it's time to make others aware of the changes going on around them. Help them to remove those rose-colored glasses, then present fact. Only then will they be able to see the world as it really is. And only then will they be able to embrace the lives they were born to live.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">19 - The Sun</span><br />
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The Sun is a very fortunate card, indeed - especially when it falls within the realm of Spirit <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">purpose</span>. That's because its message makes your mission easy, fun, and enlightening. It's only up to you to convince others that the Ancients are smiling on them, that their success is imminent. And that being the case, all they have to do is reach out, grab it, and embrace all the happiness it has to offer.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">20 - Judgement</span><br />
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Judgement calls for a hands-on approach when it falls in the Spirit card position. That's because it's your mission to help others <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">look at</span> both sides of the coin, and make decisions based on nothing more than the facts. Since human beings tend to be lead by their hearts rather than their minds, though, this is no easy task. While your work will be difficult, know that it's important - for only through your efforts will those around you learn to make firm decisions that will get them through life and ease its path.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">21 - The World</span><br />
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As with the Sun, you are fortunate if the World appears as your Spirit card. Why? Because completing your mission is only a simple matter of showing those around you that they are in position to have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">whatever</span> they want. All they have to do is ask. While this job can be fun and rewarding, understand that it's also up to you to let others know that any requests must be very specific. That's because the Universe "sees" things only in black and white, so it will only deliver an exact duplicate of that which is requested - nothing more and nothing less.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-68592619110562529872009-08-17T17:07:00.000-07:002009-08-18T19:07:49.841-07:00The Hermit (Lenka's birth card)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/Sonz9L8xeNI/AAAAAAAAAL4/koKeAz-yrs8/s1600-h/Mystic_Tarot__IX_the_Hermit_by_KKL.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/Sonz9L8xeNI/AAAAAAAAAL4/koKeAz-yrs8/s320/Mystic_Tarot__IX_the_Hermit_by_KKL.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371092263121287378" border="0" /></a> <i></i><blockquote><i>Be ye lamps unto yourselves.</i><div><i>- Buddha</i></div></blockquote><div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">August 16, 1983. A special date for me. Lenka was born. This gorgeous blue-eyed sunshine. I wish you to reach the tops you never thought would be reachable. And when you do, I wish you to be happy, Lenka! I know I can't hug you now and wish you all that in person. But here's my little gift to you. I hope you find it inspirational. Happy birthday, my love!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Your birth date is related to number 9. Remember it and pay close attention to how this number manifests in your life. If we take the tarot major arcana, a card numbered 9 is the HERMIT. Hey, don't panic just yet! It doesn't mean you are doomed to the lonely life and eternal wondering in the darkness (that's what most people pick up when they see the card for the first time :). Philosopher <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Blaise</span> Pascal once noted that "All men's miseries derive from not being able to sit <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">quietly</span> in a room alone." </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Look at him closely. He's alone in the woods. He seems to be lost. But is he? If he is lost, why did he close his eyes? When someone is lost and wants to find the way back, wouldn't he or she keep eyes wide open, walking around, instead of standing steel? Now the next question... If the hermit keeps his eyes closed, why does he need the light?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The hermit is alone in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">physical</span> plane, but he has his Higher Self as a company on the spiritual plane. He <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">withdrew</span> himself from everyone because, living his life among others, he somehow felt that he couldn't find what he was looking for. Being alone allows him to search <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">within</span> himself. He doesn't need the light. The lantern is for others. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imagine yourself being lost in the woods. It's getting darker and darker, and you still can't find the path you came from. Restless and scared, you pray to God to show you the way or send someone who knows the way out (or you simply want to get out of here for real! :)) And suddenly, through bushes and tree trunks, you spot a glimpse of light. You start walking on it. Coming closer and closer. You see a man in a rugged cloak, paused with his eyes closed, as though he was waiting for you. What do you feel at this moment? I bet you are beyond happy to find him there <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">LOL</span>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In Rider Waite deck the Hermit is portrayed staying on snow as the symbol of untouched, clean. The season is winter. The nature rests, goes within, saves energy for even greater growth and abundance. Whiteness covers everything, conceals colors and shapes, doesn't distract. Perfect time for withdrawal. It also reminds us that after winter comes spring. Everything changes. Everything is in TRANSFORMATION. So is the Hermit's seclusion: it won't last forever (and it shouldn't). One day he will have to return and bring the light of his wisdom to those who are still seeking. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Taroists</span> pay special attention to the lantern the Hermit carries. Its light is a shape of the Solomon's Seal (King Solomon is known for his wisdom and fair judgement). It represents duality of inner and outer, conscious and subconscious (as there is the light within the lantern and outside, too). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hermits <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">withdraw</span> from society but not from humanity. Quite often they offer shelter and guidance to travelers. Buddha is just one of those whose road to enlightenment went through the years spent in solitude. Yet <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Buddha</span> never lost his touch with reality and other humans, becoming one of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">greatest</span> Teachers. Nietzsche's <i><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Dus</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Sprach</span> Zarathustra</i> (Thus Spoke Zarathustra) enshrines the Hermit's image; the book begins with Zarathustra's return after achieving personal transformation. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So when we see the Hermit in his full potential, we deal with study, self-examination, search (and research, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">introspectiveness</span>, mentoring or guiding, investigating, seeking answers, soul searching, as well as personal transformation that can help transform the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Hermit as the Spirit Card</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While each of us has a reason for being born, our purpose is often less than clear. So we flounder about trying to figure out where we belong and why. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">When</span> the Hermit appears as the Spirit card, it means that you are the keeper of the Universal light. And as good as it sounds, it's not an easy job. Why? <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Because</span> your mission is not only to instill self-confidence and self-worth in others, but to convince them to let their personal lights - talents, abilities, etc. - shine forth to guide the rest of the world. Lenka, know that by doing your job well, you'll do more than help those around you see their personal value - you'll make the world a better place to live. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Hermit as the Lesson Card</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Each lifetime we are born into comes with a specific lesson which, when properly learned, brings us closer to an ultimate goal: that of spiritual <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">evolvement</span> and perfection. When the Hermit comes to call in this position, it's time to come out of hiding, take a center stage, and be recognized. Because you've work <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">quietly</span> for so long, this may not be easy for you. Nonetheless, it's imperative that you learn to toot your own horn, and take due credit for your accomplishments. Understand that this has nothing to do with bragging or being boastful. Instead, it's a simple matter of accepting your rewards graciously, while pointing others in the direction of personal accomplishment. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Hermit as the Talent Card</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While the Hermit often works <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">quietly</span> behind the scenes, make no mistake: he also sheds light on every subject he studies. For that reason, his gifts are not only that of research and understanding, but the ability impart that knowledge to others.<br /><br />If you wonder about Spiritual meanings of other Major Arcana cards, read <a href="http://mytarotmirror.blogspot.com/2009/08/spirit-card-meanings-and-advice.html">HERE</a> :)<br /></div><br /><span class="technoratitag">Technorati Tags:<br /><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Buddah" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for Buddah">Buddah</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/hermit+as+the+spirit+card" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for hermit as the spirit card">hermit as the spirit card</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/hermit+tarot" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for hermit tarot">hermit tarot</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+cards" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot cards">tarot cards</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/the+hermit+tarot" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for the hermit tarot">the hermit tarot</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/Zarathustra" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for Zarathustra">Zarathustra</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/meaning+of+hermit+in+tarot" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for meaning of hermit in tarot">meaning of hermit in tarot</a></span><br /><span class="sociallinks">Add to: | <a href="http://technorati.com/faves?add=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Technorati</a> | <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Digg</a> | <a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml;title=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29" target="_blank">del.icio.us</a> | <a href="http://myweb2.search.yahoo.com/myresults/bookmarklet?t=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Yahoo</a> | <a href="http://www.blinklist.com/index.php?Action=Blink/addblink.php&Url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml&Title=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29" target="_blank">BlinkList</a> | <a href="http://www.spurl.net/spurl.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml&title=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29" target="_blank">Spurl</a> | <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml&title=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29" target="_blank">reddit</a> | <a href="http://www.furl.net/storeIt.jsp?t=The%20Hermit%20%28Lenka%27s%20birth%20card%29&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhermit%2Dlenkas%2Dbirth%2Dcard%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Furl</a> | </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-23665606734206549042009-08-13T14:24:00.000-07:002009-08-13T15:39:24.768-07:00How the tarot works<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoSTHOjd1qI/AAAAAAAAALw/Zdjx1OPqIU4/s1600-h/Paradiso_Canto_31.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 289px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoSTHOjd1qI/AAAAAAAAALw/Zdjx1OPqIU4/s320/Paradiso_Canto_31.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369578408107693730" /></a><blockquote><span style="font-style:italic;">If you look through the vast tarot literature, you will find all sorts of interpretations on how the tarot works and why it is possible to use it as a divination tool. What I have to say right now is - the tarot does not predict future. If you want to know when you are going to get married, the tarot is not going to give you the date. However, it can give you an insight into the current relationship, pinpoint problem spots, and offer solutions. I understand the tarot as a mirror through which I can see the truth about myself, if I chose to open my eyes, of course.</span></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;">Some tarot readers approach tarot with a great deal oh mysticism. Some write it all off to chance. Others still don't know how it works, they just know that it does. And yet there are those who tried it for a short period of time, saw no immediate results, and claimed it being a bogus. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I believe that when I receive a message through pulling a particular card, it comes from that source of wisdom that is universal. I picture it as a giant interactive information field surrounding our planet that goes far beyond, yet invisible to human eye. I do not consider myself religious. However, I was born into the family of Russian orthodox Christians. We tend to believe that each person has a guardian angel (or even several of them), a guide in the world of Spirit, who helps us quietly in our mundane life, stirs us into certain directions. This relationship is ever present but our conscious tends to ignore it. Talking about intuition! I am pretty sure everyone have experienced it, and not once. But since we cannot reasonably explain it, we just shake it off as some sort of spook. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some people call these entities the soul, the super conscious, the higher self, or the inner guide. Some tend to believe that there are separate Tarot Guides who favor those holding the deck. It doesn't matter what you call them, really. It's important to know that the guide can help you tune into that universal information field and draw out the information you seek. Sounds easy?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Not so fast. When was the last time you actually asked for help and guidance from your Higher Self? Have you done this, EVER? Since you are already on this page and in the process of reading this line, I may guess you asked. You probably suspect that there is something bigger than a human brain. You probably experienced quite a few encounters which you can't rationalize, but cannot write off to coincidence either. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyways, it's just a thought. I believe that every time I reach for the deck, I signal to my guide that I am ready to receive the missing pearls of wisdom. I open the door and let him (or her, or them) in. I want them to provide information in symbols that I have capacity to understand. That's what the tarot is - a huge set of symbols refined through generations of readers - a pathway to knowledge that you can't fit into your conscious. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some people do not need the cards to access Higher Wisdom. We usually call them psychics, mediums, clairvoyants, etc. The tarot cards can help you until you reach your guide on your own. In the beginning I would suggest not to concentrate on all that psychic hip. Just play with the cards, and have fun! Everything will come with practice.</div><br /><span class="technoratitag">Technorati Tags:<br /><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/clairvoyance" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for clairvoyance">clairvoyance</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/divination" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for divination">divination</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/guardian+angel" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for guardian angel">guardian angel</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/how+tarot+works" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for how tarot works">how tarot works</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/inner+guide" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for inner guide">inner guide</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+blog" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot blog">tarot blog</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+for+beginners" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot for beginners">tarot for beginners</a></span><br /><span class="sociallinks">Add to: | <a href="http://technorati.com/faves?add=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Technorati</a> | <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Digg</a> | <a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml;title=How%20the%20tarot%20works" target="_blank">del.icio.us</a> | <a href="http://myweb2.search.yahoo.com/myresults/bookmarklet?t=How%20the%20tarot%20works&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Yahoo</a> | <a href="http://www.blinklist.com/index.php?Action=Blink/addblink.php&Url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml&Title=How%20the%20tarot%20works" target="_blank">BlinkList</a> | <a href="http://www.spurl.net/spurl.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml&title=How%20the%20tarot%20works" target="_blank">Spurl</a> | <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml&title=How%20the%20tarot%20works" target="_blank">reddit</a> | <a href="http://www.furl.net/storeIt.jsp?t=How%20the%20tarot%20works&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fhow%2Dtarot%2Dworks%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Furl</a> | </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-59922137341711843532009-08-13T00:35:00.000-07:002009-08-13T11:27:12.159-07:00The origin and meaning of the tarot<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoRW0z112pI/AAAAAAAAALY/mDhiMpwxZWg/s1600-h/I.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoRW0z112pI/AAAAAAAAALY/mDhiMpwxZWg/s200/I.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369512121001695890" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">I will not be going into a detailed history of the tarot here, it is not that important. However, for those of you who still wonder, I quote Joan Bunning.</span><div><i><br /></i><div><div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">"The origin of the tarot is a mystery. We do know for sure that the cards were used in Italy in the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">fifteenth</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">century</span> as a popular card game. Wealthy patrons commissioned beautiful decks, some of which have survived. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Visconti</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Sforza</span>, created in 1450 or shortly thereafter, is one of the earliest and most complete.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Later in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the cards were discovered by a number of influential scholars of the occult. These gentlemen were fascinated by the tarot and recognized that the images on the cards were more powerful that a simple game would suggest. They revealed (or created!) the "true"history of the tarot by connecting the cards to Egyptian mysteries, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Hermic</span> philosophy, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Kabbalah</span>, alchemy, and other mystical systems. These pursuits continued into the early part of the twentieth century when the tarot was incorporated into the practices of several secret societies, including the Order of the Golden Dawn.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although the roots of the tarot are in the occult tradition, interest in the cards has expanded in the last few decades to include many <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">perspectives</span>. New decks have been created that reflect these interests. There are Native American, herbal, mythological, and Japanese <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">decks</span>, among others. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The tarot is most commonly viewed as a tool for divination. A traditional tarot reading involves a seeker - someone who is looking for answers to personal questions - and a reader - someone who knows how to interpret the cards. After the seeker has shuffled the cards and cut the deck, the reader lays out the chosen cards in a pattern called spread. Each position in a spread has a meaning, and each card has a meaning as well. The reader combines the two meanings to shed light on the seeker's question. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A simple process, but rarely presented in a simple way. In films, we always see the tarot being used in a seedy parlor or back room. An old woman, seated in shadows, reads the cards for a nervous, young girl. The crone lifts her wrinkled finger and drops it ominously on the Death card. The girl draws back, frightened by this sign of her impending doom. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This aura of darkness clings to the tarot even now. Some religions shun the cards, and the scientific establishment condemns them as symbols of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">unreasoning</span>, a holdover from an unenlightened past. Let us set aside these shadowy images for now and consider the tarot for what it is - the deck of picture cards. The question becomes, what can we do with them? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The answer lies with the unconscious - that deep level of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">memory</span> and awareness that resides within each of us, but <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">outside</span> our everyday experience. Even though we ignore the action of the unconscious most of the time, it profoundly affects everything we do. In his writing, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Sigmund</span> Freud stresses the irrational, primitive aspect of the unconscious. He thought it was the home of our most unacceptable desires and urges. His contemporary Carl <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Jung emphasized</span> the positive, creative aspects of the unconscious. He tried to show that it has a collective component that touches universal qualities. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We may never know the full range and power of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">unconscious</span>, but there are ways to explore its landscape. Many techniques have been developed for this purpose - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">psychotherapy</span>, dream interpretation, visualization, and meditation. The tarot is another such tool...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">... Projection is one reason why the tarot cards are valuable. Their intriguing pictures and patterns are effective in tapping the unconscious. This is the personal aspect of the tarot, but the cards also have the collective component. As humans, we all have certain common needs and experiences. The images on the tarot cards capture these universal moments and draw them out consistently. People tend to react to the cards in similar ways because they represent archetypes. Over many <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">centuries</span>, the tarot has evolved into a collection of the most basic patterns of human thought and emotion...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">...Meaning is a mysterious quality that arises at the juncture of inner and outer realities. There is a message in everything - trees, songs, even trash - but only when we are open to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">perceive</span> it. The tarot cards convey many messages because of the richness of their images and connections. More importantly, tarot readings communicate meaning because we bring to them our sincere desire to discover deeper truths about our lives. By seeking meaning in this way, we honor its reality and give it a chance to be revealed."</div></div></div></div></div><br /><span class="technoratitag">Technorati Tags:<br /><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+origin" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot origin">tarot origin</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+meaning" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot meaning">tarot meaning</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+blog" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot blog">tarot blog</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/learn+tarot" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for learn tarot">learn tarot</a></span><br /><span class="sociallinks">Add to: | <a href="http://technorati.com/faves?add=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Technorati</a> | <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Digg</a> | <a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml;title=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot" target="_blank">del.icio.us</a> | <a href="http://myweb2.search.yahoo.com/myresults/bookmarklet?t=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Yahoo</a> | <a href="http://www.blinklist.com/index.php?Action=Blink/addblink.php&Url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml&Title=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot" target="_blank">BlinkList</a> | <a href="http://www.spurl.net/spurl.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml&title=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot" target="_blank">Spurl</a> | <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml&title=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot" target="_blank">reddit</a> | <a href="http://www.furl.net/storeIt.jsp?t=The%20origin%20and%20meaning%20of%20the%20tarot&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Forigin%2Dand%2Dmeaning%2Dof%2Dtarot%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Furl</a> | </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7560987856849385429.post-18135972113753247332009-08-12T22:22:00.000-07:002009-08-13T11:23:22.376-07:00Where it all started<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoOn2mCkP3I/AAAAAAAAAII/kHUQHtcrs88/s1600-h/PP31348.jpg"><blockquote></blockquote><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_DNgeeGtxT3E/SoOn2mCkP3I/AAAAAAAAAII/kHUQHtcrs88/s400/PP31348.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5369319737121849202" /></a><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i>It's hard to say why exactly I picked up the tarot. I guess most of those who did will not be able to answer the "why" question.</i></span></blockquote><blockquote></blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It just happens. I want to believe that these cards just pick us, magically. And when they do, it doesn't mean anything yet. Guess you have to be sort of prepared for the "mission" </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">because</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> you will have to learn a totally new language, a language you never have heard or spoken before, yet so familiar and tangible that you can't help but wonder - "how come I didn't know?"</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">As for me, I started with </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">poker</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> cards. Somewhere at the age of 15 I've got a small book (a pamphlet, rather) with a couple of spreads and the meaning of each card in those spreads, and also different combinations of cards. There were so many of them that I couldn't let that book go. I felt like a cripple always relying on his cane. I had to go through every single card in that book, then through every single combination of cards, then see how they all connect in the spread, and then compose a fine and believable story.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was fun. And innocent. Until one day. On that day I picked up my </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">poker</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> deck and did the usual spread. I looked through all the card. Then I went through combinations. Right at the "head" of the spread (which meant the nearest future) was this exact combination of Ace of Spades and another card (which I fail to remember now). According to my pamphlet, that very combination was standing for the news of someone dying!!! And it was in the "nearest future" section, which is several hours to 3-7 days. I frowned. Packed the deck. Went to do some stuff around the house. Forgot about the spread and the message.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Until 40 minutes later, when the phone rang. It was my father's friend who, his voice trembling, said that my grandfather died from a heart stroke, 30 minutes ago, right in the middle of the Russian winter cold, while skiing with my brother. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was shocked. By death. As much as by the message of it coming from a mundane </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">poker</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> deck. It was a glimpse in the future right there, very scary one. And I got scared indeed. I never picked up that deck again, nor did I ever looked at that book. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And here I am now, with a miniature Tarot Waite deck bought from Amazon for less than $10, which contains the major arcana card named Death :) I am happy enough to know that Death in tarot does not always indicate physical perish (sight of relief here!). However, the symbolism of the tarot is rich and not easy to </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">decipher</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There are tons of books out there that help with basic meanings and symbolism. My first one was "Learning the Tarot" by Joan Bunning. It's great. Newertheless, I quickly learned that it's not going to be a quick learning. That I must not just study by heart what each and every single card means, according to some wise people out there. That I must listen to the cards. REALLY listen. And listen to myself for that matter. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And this is what this blog is about. Listening to yourself, listening to what the cards are here to tell you, seeing yourself through them and in them. So let's get the magic started!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div> </div><br /><span class="technoratitag">Technorati Tags:<br /><a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/ace+of+spades" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for ace of spades">ace of spades</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/blog" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for blog">blog</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/cards" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for cards">cards</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/clairvoyance" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for clairvoyance">clairvoyance</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/death" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for death">death</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/divination" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for divination">divination</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot">tarot</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+spread" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot spread">tarot spread</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+waite" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot waite">tarot waite</a>, <a href="http://www.technorati.com/tag/tarot+blog" target="_blank" rel="tag" title="Link to Technorati Tag category for tarot blog">tarot blog</a></span><br /><span class="sociallinks">Add to: | <a href="http://technorati.com/faves?add=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Technorati</a> | <a href="http://digg.com/submit?phase=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Digg</a> | <a href="http://del.icio.us/post?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml;title=Where%20it%20all%20started" target="_blank">del.icio.us</a> | <a href="http://myweb2.search.yahoo.com/myresults/bookmarklet?t=Where%20it%20all%20started&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Yahoo</a> | <a href="http://www.blinklist.com/index.php?Action=Blink/addblink.php&Url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml&Title=Where%20it%20all%20started" target="_blank">BlinkList</a> | <a href="http://www.spurl.net/spurl.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml&title=Where%20it%20all%20started" target="_blank">Spurl</a> | <a href="http://reddit.com/submit?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml&title=Where%20it%20all%20started" target="_blank">reddit</a> | <a href="http://www.furl.net/storeIt.jsp?t=Where%20it%20all%20started&u=http%3A%2F%2Fmytarotmirror%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F2009%2F08%2Fwhere%2Dit%2Dall%2Dstarted%2Ehtml" target="_blank">Furl</a> | </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14822842626554189191noreply@blogger.com