Tarot Card Meanings
Tarot Card Meanings
0 The Fool
Pathway from Kether to Chokmah.
Lower legs and circulatory system
Uranus is the planet of freedom, revolution, rebellion, and rules futuristicminded Aquarius. The
Fool is pure potential, before anything has manifested...or even been thought of.
UPRIGHT
● The possibilities are endless
● One step at a time
● Leap of faith
● Just do it
● Taking a risk
● Lack of foresight/planning
● Sudden impulse
REVERSED
● Cautiousness
● Not following instincts
● Following bad instincts
● Recklessness
● Ignoring reality
● Lack of direction
1 The Magician
Pathway from Kether to Binah
The Magus is the master of time, space, energy, and communication. He creates the world with
the tools at his table all elements are at his disposal. He represents the ability to channel
energy from Spirit into physical form. He is yang energy outward expression.
UPRIGHT
● Willpower
● Resourceful
● Communicating your purpose
● Taking the first steps
● Actionoriented
● Skillful
REVERSED
● Latent talent/unused potential
● Confused purpose
● Lacking resources
● Poor communication
● Manipulation
● Projects not taking off
2 The High Priestess
Pathway from Kether to Tiphareth
Menstrual cycles, the dream world
She connects the Source to balance and spirituality. She guards the subconscious mind, where
all truth lies, represented by the pool of water behind the veil. She is a still, passive, observer,
never casting judgement. She is yin energy. All answers lie within.
UPRIGHT
Intuition
● Reflection
● Intuition
● Fluctuations
● Psychic, the occult
● Cosmic, karmic knowledge/memories
REVERSED
● Isolation
● Ignoring spirituality/intuition
● Dark secrets
3 The Empress
Pathway from Chokmah
Venus rules the throat
The Empress is like Mother Earth, fertile and creative. She brings life, and is the archetypal
mother and lover. Ruled by Venus, she is sensual and affectionate. Not the least bit cerebral,
she is governed by what brings her love and pleasure.
UPRIGHT
● Motherhood
● Sensuality
● Nurturing
● Creativity
● Sexual passion
● Wife
REVERSED
● Vanity
● Neglecting motherly duties
● Too rigid
● Frustrated creativity
● Mistress to a married man
● Infertility
● Suppressing sexuality
4 The Emperor
Pathway from Chokmah to Tiphareth
Aries rules the head
3/214/19
The archetypal father, he is ultimate authority. He commands all with his law, which is dictated
by his word. He approaches life with leadership, structure, order, and the passion of Aries
(cardinal fire). However, he is a just ruler. He is “large and in charge.”
UPRIGHT
● Law, order, rulership
● Authority
● Taking charge
● Structure
● Fathers
● Assessment based on fact
REVERSED
● Rebelling
● Lack of control, power, or authority
● Fallen leader
● Oppression
● Inflexibility
● Father not present or trouble with father (or father figure)
5 The Hierophant
Pathway from Chokmah to Chesed
Neck and throat
4/215/21
Tradition and values, such as marriage, education, procreation, and religion. Our world views,
and who or what guides us. Are we guided by others, convention, or social norms?
UPRIGHT
● Spiritual leader
● Conventionality
● Advice/advising
● Religious authority
● Institutions
● Marriage
● Marriage counselor
REVERSED
● Breaking away from expectations
● Unorthodox
● Divorce
● Being your own guide
6 The Lovers
Pathway from Binah to Tiphareth
Lungs, arms
5/216/21
While the Lovers carriers romantic connotations, it can be platonic relationships in which ideas
are freely expressed as well. Two individuals working in tandem. They adapt easily to one
another. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, and rules the 3rd house of communication, early
education, and sibling relationships. At the heart of the card is choice. Being caught between
what your heart desires and what is practical is an alternative view.
UPRIGHT
● Harmony
● Passion
● Choice
● Vice or virtue
● Two becoming one
● Union
● Marriage
● Love
REVERSED
● Disharmony
● Broken relationships
7 The Chariot
Pathway from Binah to Geburah
Breasts, womb, hands
6/227/23
The Chariot’s armor is home just as the crab’s shell is home (Cancer’s symbol is a crab). The
crab can also be sensitive, intuitive, and defensive and prone to getting its own way. The armor
of the charioteer keeps him protected life Cancer keeps his feelings inside to avoid being hurt.
Additionally, Cancer is a cardinal sign, symbolizing new beginnings.
UPRIGHT
● Progression
● Using emotion to get what you want
● Controlling emotion
● Plotting your course
● Victory
REVERSED
● Lack of emotional control
● Losing purpose
● Aimlessness
8 Strength
Pathway from Chesed to Geburah
7/238/22
Heart and spine
Here, the Tarot switches from outward issues to internal ones. This card represents inner
courage, peace, and fortitude. The woman closes the beast’s mouth, showing no fear. There is
the theme of taming even loving your inner animalistic self. Not through force of will like the
Chariot, but through true inner knowing. Quite simply, strength because you know what you are
capable of.
UPRIGHT
● Courage
● Perseverance
● Understanding others/walking in their shoes
● Tenderness conquers the lion
● Overcoming the odds
● Peace with your animalistic nature; harnessing it
REVERSED
● Strength falters
● Submission
● Fearing your true nature
● Heart isn’t in it
● Fear
9 Hermit
Pathway from Chesed to Tiphareth
Nervous system, digestion, stomach
8/239/22
He is very similar to Father Time, which ties Virgo as well; the wisdom that comes with patience
and experience. Though isolated, he will shine his light on your experiences and guide you over
rocky terrain.
UPRIGHT
● Inner wisdom
● Isolation
● Spiritual guru/mentor/guide/wise person
● Seeking truth
● Reflecting in solitude
REVERSED
● Not going it alone
● Unable to be still and quiet
● Lack of serenity
● Fearful of others
10 Wheel of Fortune
Pathway from Chesed to Netzach
Hips and thighs
Jupiter is auspicious, expansive, benevolent, and powerful. This is destiny progressing, events
happening by chance. The Wheel is modeled after Ezekiel's wheel. The creatures correspond
to the fixed zodiac signs, and symbolize the fixed eternal modes of One Reality, which is to say,
that which is unaffected by the Wheel. All chance is rhythmic, and what we sow, we reap. The
sphinx is the true Self.
UPRIGHT
● Karma/Consequences
● A turning point
● Tides changing
● Recurring patterns
● Good fortune
● A turn for the better
REVERSED
● Difficulty adapting
● Unpredictable change for the worse
● Slow progress
● Setting something in motion with unknown or negative consequences
● Fighting against events
11 Justice
Pathway from Geburah to Tiphareth
Lower back, buttocks, kidneys
9/2310/22
Libra is diplomatic and a skilled problem solver. It is a sign which loves truth and highly values
equality. This “lady” is balancing the truth and fairness of every word, She encourages us to
make fair and wellthought out decisions.
UPRIGHT
● Truth of the matter
● Fairness
● The Law
● Balanced approach
● Decisionmaking
REVERSED
● Unfair
● Harsh judgement
● Jumping to conclusions
● Lies
● Losing a legal matter
12 The Hanged Man
Pathway from Geburah to Hod
Mysterious illnesses, neuroses
The Hanged Man has either suspended himself, or at the least, is in complicit agreement with
his position. Neptune rules Pisces and the 12th house of secrets and Tarotists have long
struggled to debate this mysterious card. Though he is hanging, this figure is serene. He can
see the world from a different vantage point.
UPRIGHT
● Sacrifice
● A time of stasis
● Pleasant waiting
● Change of perspective
● Seeing the big picture
● Surrendering to the process
● Psychic understanding
REVERSED
● Moving on after a period of stasis
● Playing the martyr
● Unwilling to change your view
● Ready to make a move
13 Death
Pathway from Tiphareth to Netzach
Sex organs and anus
10/2311/22
The best representation of this card (and Scorpio) is the phoenix, the bird that dies in flame and
is reborn energy is not lost, merely converted. If we accept transition, the “death” of a stage,
and therefore growth. Like physical death, change is inevitable. I would argue that the last
stage of life is enlightenment, and not death.
UPRIGHT
● A hard stop, no go
● Change (may be very difficult change)
● Reinvention
● Rebirth
● Endings
REVERSED
● No change
● Stubbornness
● Resistance
● Unable to move on
14 Temperance
Pathway from Tiphareth to Yesod
Hips and thighs
11/2212/21
The Archangel Raphael is frequently pictured on this card and is the angel associated with
healing. Themes of alchemy are strongly represented in this card.
UPRIGHT
● Healing
● Moderation
● Patience
● Combining resources, people, ideas
● Harmony
● The right mix
REVERSED
● Oil and water
● Going to excess
● Impatience
● Out of sync
● Health problems
● Stress
15 The Devil
Pathway from Tiphareth to Hod
Legs
12/221/19
The Devil sits upon a half cube, representing half truths. The inverted Pentagram symbolizes
being drawn to base realities vs. higher truth. The bound individuals are only there by their own
free will, their carnal nature they can lift off their chains any time. 1+5=6 ~ and this card echoes
the Lovers. It is the shadow, the dark side, of the Lovers.
UPRIGHT
● Bondage and restriction
● Addiction
● Adultery or “impure” sex
● Enslaved by desire
● Halftruths
● Being in the dark
● An oppressor
● Trapped with/by someone
REVERSED
● Breaking free
● Resisting temptation
● Recovery
16 The Tower
Pathway from Netzach to Hod
Blood, male sex organs, accidents, trauma, surgery
Mars is the warrior planet it determines how aggressive we are; how we fight and our sexual
energy. Mars also governs impulse, and the bolt to the Tower is lightning fast literally. The
Tower can shake things up for good or bad, but nothing will ever be the same. When you want
to build a new structure where an old one stood, first you demolish the old one the is the
Tower.
UPRIGHT
● Sudden change
● Epiphany
● Laying the old to waste
● Humbling
● Illness or accident
● Shock
● Disaster
● Clearing out habits
REVERSED
● Less severe than upright
● Ignoring the need for total change
● Avoiding the fallout
● Internal damage
17 The Star
Pathway from Netzach to Yesod
Shins, calves, ankles
1/212/20
Aquarians are futuristic thinkers, and look for a brighter tomorrow. The woman pours out water
to nourish the psyche, and on land her water forms 5 streams representing the 5 senses and the
5 elements (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit). There are 8 stars ~ 1+7=8
UPRIGHT
● Hope and healing
● Spiritual guidance
● The calm after the storm
● Believing in yourself
● Renewal
REVERSED
● Ignoring your spiritual self
● Discouragement
● Without hope
● Not trusting the process
● Not healing
18 The Moon
Pathway from Netzach to Malkuth
Feet
2/193/20
The Moon is a reflection of our emotional, subconscious self. The crustacean represents
coming out of the depth of our subconsciousness into our consciousness. The dog is our tame
self, the wolf, our wild self.
UPRIGHT
● Suppressed thoughts/emotions coming to light
● Dreams
● Things we fear
● Deception/illusion
● Moodiness
REVERSED
● Refusing to deal with your demons
● Nightmares
● Letting fear control you
19 The Sun
Pathway from Hod to Yesod
In many ancient cultures, the sun is god, constantly dying each night and being resurrected
each dawn. It gives life to all things. The child in the card is an innocent, basking in the joy the
light brings.
UPRIGHT
● Clarity
● Comprehension
● Freedom & liberation
● Personal growth
● Success
● Fruitfulness
● All is well
REVERSED
● Burned out
● Not accepting/acknowledging success
● Delays to success
● Holding back your true self
● A false front, a mask
● Same as upright but not as strong
20 Judgement
Pathway from Hod to Malkuth
Pluto rules death, resurrection, forgiveness, and release. It tests your faith, and is unavoidable.
Now we reflect on why we are here, and heralds an epiphany about your true purpose. You are
able to integrate parts of your Self together, and release what doesn’t serve you.
URIGHT
● Awakening
● True purpose
● Accepting your truth
● Transformation
● Higher calling
● Your destiny
REVERSED
● Selfdeception
● Ignoring your path
● Knowing but refusing to act
21 The World
Pathway from Yesod to Malkuth
Bones and skin
The end of a cycle has come and the Fool has reached enlightenment through this journey. The
limitations of Saturn are still in place, but we have learned to be free within them free to do
what we wish with the time we have
UPRIGHT
● Coming full circle
● All is well in our lives
● Accomplishment
● Enlightenment
● End of a journey
● Wholeness
REVERSED
● Almost there
● Delay to completion
● Everything perfect but ONE thing
● In the center of a difficult situation
● Not seeing the big picture
Ace of Wands
Summer or days
Fire is a metaphor for energy, drive, desire, advancement, and enlightenment. The suit of
Wands is active, masculine, yang energy. It appears when we have inspiring visions, embark on
fulfilling pursuits, or express creative energy. Look to make the most of this new energy.
UPRIGHT
● Creativity/inspiration/new ideas
● Motivation
● “All systems go”
● Fresh enthusiasm
● New phase of personal growth
● Gift of strength, creativity, or sexuality
REVERSED
● Lack of motivation
● Creative blocks
● Unable to access inner strength
2 of Wands
Lord of Dominion
3/213/30
0°10° Aries
2’s are about union, duality, and choice. Mars is the ruler of Aries, and here is master of his
domain. The 2 of Wands gets an extra dose of Mars energy as well, because Mars is ruler of
the first decan. Here we view a man contemplating his next move, or perhaps if he should stay
or go.
UPRIGHT
● Start of a plan
● Business formation
● Making a choice
● Stay or go?
REVERSED
● Unable to move forward
● Delay in a startup
● Unfulfilled longing
● Lack of planning
● Fear of the unknown
3 of Wands
Lord of Established Strength
3/314/10
10°20° Aries
The Sun is exalted in Aries, he is an honored guest. This 3 depicts knowing your path and
embarking upon it. This is the active flow of creativity. This card depicts a visionary, waiting for
his ships to come back in.
UPRIGHT
● New enterprises
● Having a vision and acting on it
● Embarking on a creative endeavor
● Leadership
● Optimism (about the future)
REVERSED
● Delay in reaching a goal
● Waiting
● Disappointment
● Blocked creativity
● Blocked plans
4 of Wands
Lord of Perfected Work
4/114/20
20°30° Aries
Though Venus is in her detriment, she still brings the beauty and harmony of the Lesser Benefic.
Crowley calls this card “Completion.” The ships sent out in the 3 have returned and it is time to
celebrate. As a 4, it represents stability, materialism, and order.
UPRIGHT
● Celebrations
● Optimism
● Completion
● Homecoming/reunion
● Socializing
● Home decor
REVERSED
● Something still missing
● Cancelled event
● Social event gone wrong
● Delay in completion or reuniting
5 of Wands
Lord of Strife
7/238/1
0°10° Leo
This may also be looked at as “striving” we strive to reach a goal, to achieve power, and when
we compete against others. This 5 relates to conflict and great effort, and suggests the actions
taken to grow, to disturb the status quo.
UPRIGHT
● Perseverance in the face of opposition
● Effort to overcome
● Determined, persuasive, hot speech
● Boldness
● Debating
● Jockeying for power
REVERSED
● Not measuring up
● Too hard on yourself
● Being blamed (or placing blame) wrongly
● Avoiding conflict
6 of Wands
Lord of Victory
8/28/11
10°20° Leo
Jupiter bestows admirationseeking Leo with the outward expression (6) of the fame and glory
Leo seeks. After the fight to the top in the 5, here we see the success and recognition of that
newly found power.
UPRIGHT
● Fame
● Recognition
● Success
● Victory
● Progress
REVERSED
● Fall from grace
● Bad reputation
● Unable to achieve success
● Arrogant, egotistical
7 of Wands
Lord of Valor
8/128/22
20°30° Leo
The 7s correspond to challenges and power. Mars lends Leo strength and courage to carry on,
to fight for its desire, to stand its ground. It is about being true to yourself when others or
obstacles oppose you.
UPRIGHT
● Determination
● Tenacity
● Standing your ground
● Conviction
● Asserting yourself
REVERSED
● Courage failing you
● Not standing up for yourself/what you believe
● Admitting defeat
● Odds not in your favor
8 of Wands
Lord of Swiftness
11/2312/2
0°10° Sagittarius
Things are moving very quickly here communication and ideas. The 8’s represent change,
results, progression. Philosophical Sagittarius may want to wax poetic about grand ideas.
UPRIGHT
● Longdistance communication
● Fast moving events
● Divine direction
● Fast change
● Air travel
● Electronic communication
REVERSED
● Delays
● Frustration
● Messages not sent/received
9 of Wands
Lord of Great Strength
12/312/12
10°20° Sagittarius
With the 9’s, we have the wisdom from the suit to prepare for our next step. Though we are
weary, we know how to continue on. Our ideals have been tested, yet we stand resilient
though still on guard. Here we are close to victory, and must keep our resolve.
UPRIGHT
● Standing your ground
● Resilience
● Wisdom from experience
● Defending yourself
● Wariness
REVERSED
● Isolation
● Paranoia
● Weakened defenses
● Giving up when success is near
10 of Wands
Lord of Oppression
12/1312/21
20°30° Sagittarius
When we feel totally weighed down by our challenges, or that we have taken on too much, this
is the card that shows up. In lowly Malkuth, with sluggish Saturn, lofty Sagittarius just can’t get
off the ground. You’ve taken on a task that falls squarely on your shoulders with no relief, or you
are doing more than your fair share.
UPRIGHT
● Heavy burden
● Great obstacles
● All falls on your shoulders
● Burned out
REVERSED
● Lightening your load
● Sharing the burden
● Shifting responsibility
● Hopelessness under stress
Page of Wands
Earth of Fire
The page has a fiery enthusiasm found in the form of a young explorer. She has a zest for life
and will try anything once. But because of her immaturity, she can easily get burned. When life
feels extra monotonous, this card heralds a welcome change and coming excitement.
UPRIGHT
● New adventure
● Travel to new places
● Exploring ideas/passions
● A gogetter, showing potential
● Zest for life
● Selfconfident
REVERSED
● Hottemper
● Doesn’t think before acting
● Poor attention span
● Boredom
● Rash
● Rejected plan
● Staying put
Knight of Wands
Fire of Fire* (in other systems, Air of Fire)
11/1312/12
20°30° Scorpio to 0°20° Sagittarius
This Knight is full of fiery passion and getupandgo. He is stylish and charming. He can
charm your pants off literally. If there is a challenge, he rises to it without a thought. If you
need something done quickly, this is the guy to do it.
UPRIGHT
● Adventurous
● Passionate
● Acts without thought
● Unpredictable
● Fast and furious
REVERSED
● Foolhardy
● Arrogant
● Unfeeling
● Superficial
Queen of Wands
Water of Fire
3/114/10
20°30° Pisces to 0°20° Aries
A powerful woman capable of igniting change. She is sociable, strong, sexual, fiery, and
ambitious. People gravitate toward her enigmatic personality, and she is wellliked and admired.
She expresses her creative energies, is passionate, and recognizes her own potential.
UPRIGHT
● Vibrancy
● Determination
● Allure
● Open sexuality
● Cheerful
● Emotionally charged
REVERSED
● Overly domineering
● Angry
● Pushy
● Hot and cold
● Selfabsorbed
● Uses sex as a weapon
King of Wands
Air of Fire* (in other systems, Fire of Fire)
7/128/11
20°30° Cancer to 0°20° Leo
The King has the heart of a lion; he is strong, loyal, and generous. He has the power and
charisma to inspire a multitude, and will often be found starting new businesses, working for
himself, or is in high sales positions. At times he may speak out of that passion and be
explosive. He’s as unpredictable as wildfire.
UPRIGHT
● Entrepreneur
● Courageous and confident
● Charismatic
● Vital energy
REVERSED
● Hottempered
● Domineering
● Arrogant
● Prideful
● Overly high expectations
Ace of Cups
Autumn or Months
Love is often our greatest motivator. It heals, restores, and forgives. The Ace is love in its most
pure form, when we are open to its gifts. Cups are receptive, feminine, and convey the depth of
our hearts
UPRIGHT
● New love
● Open heart
● Beginning of love or pleasure
● Cup runneth over
● A full heart
● Fertility/conception
● Marriage
REVERSED
● Emptiness
● Lost/unrequited love
● Pouring yourself out
● Ending a relationship
● Resisting love/relationship
2 of Cups
“Lord of Love”
6/217/21
0°10° Cancer
Venus, the planet of love and beauty, now resides in nurturing Cancer; and Venus rules Taurus
who enjoys the stability and comfort found in a loving, longterm relationship.
UPRIGHT
● Love
● Childhood sweethearts, soulmates
● Partnerships
● Equal attraction
● Marriage
● Healing union
REVERSED
● Quarrels
● Love lost
● Incompatibility
● Broken trust
3 of Cups
“Lord of Abundance”
7/27/11
10°20° Cancer
Working together, friendship and celebrating the outcome is emphasized here.
We find the toasts made to success and positively shared emotions in this 3.
Friendships, particularly female ones, as well as sisterhood plays a strong role; the nurturing
and communicative style of women.
UPRIGHT
● Friendships
● Sisterhood
● Enjoying others’ company
● Celebrating common bonds
REVERSED
● Trouble with friendships and female relationships within the family
● Empty pleasure
● Being left out
● Overindulgence/hangover
● Bad party
4 of Cups
“Lord of Blended Pleasure”
7/127/21
20°30° Cancer
Moody Cancer is especially so under its native rulership of the Moon. Cancer’s reflective
tendencies cause it to become more melancholy than usual. Crowley calls this card “Luxury”
which implies too much of a good thing, in which we begin to take things for granted. When we
have everything we could want at our disposal, are we actually happier? Or do we take it for
granted and grow bored?
UPRIGHT
● Taking things for granted
● Boredom
● Meditation
● Melancholy
REVERSED
● Apathy
● Restlessness
● Aloofness
● Missed opportunities
5 of Cups
“Lord of Loss of Pleasure”
10/2311/2
0°10° Scorpio
5’s depict challenges and trials and here they relate to love and emotion. At this intersection,
we become accepting of what has been lost; snapped out from apathy from the 4. When we
experience death physical, of our dreams, spiritual closure we grieve, yet we also change.
When we accept this loss, we can become more knowledgeable, cautious, and strong even if
our heart aches.
UPRIGHT
● Love lost
● Accepting disappointment
● Grieving
● Letting go of hope
● Pessimistic about the future
● Regret
REVERSED
● Beginning to see what we still have
● Restoring hope
● Moving on
● Forgiveness
6 of Cups
“Lord of Pleasure”
12/31212
10°20° Scorpio
The number 6 is a peak number, the height of experience and outward expression. Scorpio’s
tendency to obsess over relationships, especially past ones, explains much of the art work on
many 6 of Cups cards. Scorpio is capable of feeling the depths of sadness but also the
highest peaks of joy. Crowley calls this card “Pleasure” and sensual pleasures is another
meaning of this card.
UPRIGHT
● Positive emotional relationships
● Sensuality, pleasure
● Reminiscing
● Longing
REVERSED
● Haunting memories
● Growing up
● Difficulty dealing with the past
7 of Cups
“Lord of Illusory Success”
11/1311/22
20°30° Scorpio
7’s are tied to difficult inward processes. Here, our dream world does not match our reality. Or,
there may be many possibilities, none of which are possible or good for us. Perhaps we want it
all or don’t know what to chose.
UPRIGHT
● Going overboard
● Debauchery (Crowley)
● Living in a fantasy world
● Visions and dreams
● Wanting it all
● Indulgence
● Many options
REVERSED
● Waking up to reality
● Fighting your vices
● Letting go of unrealistic expectations
8 of Cups
“Lord of Abandoned Success”
2/192/28
0°10° Pisces
Here in the 8, we discover the power of regeneration. There are times when we have to walk
away from situations which are no longer serving us. There are enough cups upright in the
cardl the woman could choose to stay. But staying would represent complacency, and wouldn’t
be for her greater good.
UPRIGHT
● Moving on from disappointment
● Retreat
● Discontent with current situation
● Soulsearching
● Letting go of what doesn’t serve you
REVERSED
● Clinging to something that has ended
● Carrying baggage into the next stage
● alt. Finding something worth fighting for
9 of Cups
“Lord of Material Happiness”
3/13/10
10°20° Pisces
In classical astrology, Jupiter ruled both Sagittarius and Pisces Pisces is in its dignity here. 9’s
represent taking things to the next stage of growth & near completion.
UPRIGHT
● Joyous social occasions
● The “Wish Card” wishes fulfilled
● Emotional fulfillment
● Satisfaction
● Sensual pleasures
● Smugness
REVERSED
● Unfulfilled emotions & desires
● Not getting what you want
● Superficial joy
● Entertainment difficulties
● Addiction
10 of Cups
“Lord of Perfected Success”
3/113/20
20°30° Pisces
Here in Malkuth, every emotion is manifested into reality. Crowley calls this card “Satiety,”
where we are filled to the brim. Waite takes this card to mean Mars has the aggression and
force to turn dreams (ruled by Pisces) into reality. Here our waters are calm, yet the influence of
Mars suggests a stirring under the surface. This is the uncertainty when things are going too
well, too perfect. When things are so good, they can get boring.
UPRIGHT
● Happy family
● Fulfilled life
● Regular (boring?) everyday family life
● Contentment
REVERSED
● Enough of this!
● Monotony
● Discord within family
● Uneasiness
● Pretending everything is perfect
Page of Cups
Earth of Water
The page communicates through the territories of water dreams, intuition, visions, psychic
messages, and emotions. She is a poet, an artist, and a dreamer. Being rather inexperienced
in matters of the heart, she acts based on her emotional instincts and does not use her head.
She is immature, and pure.
UPRIGHT
● Open to relationships
● Messages about love
● Gut instinct
● Taking risks in love
● Expressing your feelings
● Undeveloped feelings
● Speaking from the heart
● Love letters/messages
REVERSED
● Emotionally immature
● Selfish “only my feelings matter”
● Creative block
● Not opening your heart
Knight of Cups
Fire of Water* (in some systems, Air of Water)
2/93/10
20°30° Aquarius to 0°20° Pisces
The knight is the true romantic; lover of art, music, and romance. He is an idealist, but can be a
bit fickle. When the throes of the honeymoon stage are over, he is ready to ride off into the
sunset to find his next damsel in distress.
UPRIGHT
● A romantic
● Sensual
● Lover
● Fickle lover
REVERSED
● One night stand
● Casanova
● Noncommittal
● Lost in his imagination
Queen of Cups
Water of Water
6/117/11
20°30° Gemini to 0°20° Cancer
The Queen is all emotion, all devotion, and is associated with Cancer cardinal water. She may
receive visions in her dreams. Water is a reflector, and it can be hard to see this queen, as she
will reflect your own persona back to you. She is an excellent listener.
UPRIGHT
● Deeply emotional
● Nurturing, loving, and maternal
● Empathic
● Supportive
● Works through the subconscious
REVERSED
● Moody
● Temperamental
● Melodramatic
● Vacillates between withdrawn and smothering
● Unfeeling
● Hides feelings
King of Cups
Air of Water* (in some systems, Fire of Water)
10/1311/12
20°30° Libra to 0°20° Scorpio
The King is in control of his emotions. He is emotionally balanced, compassionate, and calm;
but he is still a warm, loving person. He may be a person one goes to for counselling, due to his
great understanding and wisdom in matters of the heart.
UPRIGHT
● A stable, loving person
● Emotional maturity
● Calm and wise
● Understanding
● Healer, counselor, therapist
REVERSED
● Emotionally unavailable
● Can’t control emotions
● Repressed emotions
● Intolerant
● Judgmental
Ace of Swords
Spring or Weeks
This ace is piercing the crown in an upright position, representing higher thoughts. It announces
new mental prowess. There are no clouds representing how the truth is shown. The double
sided blade demonstrates the ability to see both sides. This ace demands total honesty of
ourselves and others. It leaves no room for misunderstandings.
UPRIGHT
● Truth
● New idea
● Opening up communication
● Seeing clearly
● Figuring it out
REVERSED
● Confusion
● Old ideas
● Pessimism
● Lies/slander
2 of Swords
Lord of Peace Restored
9/2310/2
0°10° Libra
What have you been debating? Combining the decisionmaking skills of Libra (relating to the
Justice card) with the intuitive Moon, this card symbolizes an emotional decision to be made.
UPRIGHT
● Debating choices
● Indecision
● Careful contemplation
● Peacemaking
● Using diplomacy
REVERSED
● Refusal to make a choice
● Choice has been made
● It is decided
● Breaking an agreement
3 of Swords
Lord of Sorrow
10/31012
10°20° Libra
Typically associated with heartbreak, this 3 suffers under the boundaries of Saturn imposed
upon peaceloving and relationship focused Libra. Because of the balance the Swords portray,
Libra may suffer from love triangles, breakups, miscarriage (man+woman+child).
UPRIGHT
● Heartbreak
● Cutting to the heart
● Getting to the heart of the matter
● Heart surgery
REVERSED
● Recovery after sorrow
● Time to heal
● Closure
4 of Swords
Lord of Rest from Strife
10/1310/22
20°30° Libra
Jupiter gives a stroke of luck to the troubled mind. After a heartbreak, often, all we want to do is
sleep, and that’s just the gift Jupiter after the trouble of the 3. The mind has come to a truce or
compromise. A time of reflection is due. Retreat inside yourself to work matters out.
UPRIGHT
● Going inward
● Resting the mind
● Reflection
● A pause from the world
● Temporary solitude
● Organizing thoughts
REVERSED
● End of isolation
● Inability to find solace & rest
● Rejoining the world
5 of Swords
Lord of Defeat
1/201/29
0°10° Aquarius
Ruled by humanitarian Aquarius, residing in Geburah (severity) which is ruled by Mars, and
being a 5, Venus can do little to bring light to this card except bring an empty defeat. Just
because we won the battle though, doesn’t mean we can celebrate our victory. Being right
doesn’t always mean being happy. Often times, we can win, but do so in the wrong way, or for
the wrong reasons.
UPRIGHT
● Empty victory
● Nowin situation
● Winning the battle but losing the war
REVERSED
● Losing the fight
● Unfair tactics used against you
● No way out
● Walking away from the fight
6 of Swords
Lord of Earned Success
1/302/8
10°20°Aquarius
6’s being about outward expression, help, and equalization, this card combines communicative,
traveling Mercury with futuristic, humanitarian Aquarius. This card relates to how thoughts move
us to new aspects of our lives. It is a card about pushing boundaries.
UPRIGHT
● Travel, moving onto something new
● Intellectual pursuits
● Transition, resolutions
● Transferring ideas, data
● Planning a trip or change
● Moving up
REVERSED
● Being stuck
● Fearing change
● Unready to change
7 of Swords
Lord of Unstable Effort
2/92/18
20°30° Aquarius
The Moon is emotional, and Aquarius is not. Residing in unstable, challenging 7, this makes
this card aptly named. Trying to accomplish a task without full faculties, and being unbalanced,
evil, or volatile. On the flip side, this card could depict a Robin Hood type character, or a
vigilante, going about the right thing in the wrong way.
UPRIGHT
● Looking out for yourself
● Intellectualizing your emotions
● Strategizing
● Trickery
● Impulsiveness
● Trickery
● Mental attack
● An untrustworthy person
● Spying
REVERSED
● Selfsabotage
● Betraying confidences (not always on purpose)
● Getting caught
8 of Swords
Lord of Shortened Force
5/215/31
0°10° Gemini
This card usually symbolizes being trapped by our thoughts. Jupiter is the Greater Benefic, and
it provides a way out of the mental trap we have laid for ourselves. However, Jupiter is in its
detriment in Gemini, so its energies are scattered.
UPRIGHT
● Forced to recognize the process
● Trapped in your own thoughts
● Trouble thinking through your options
● Lack of direction
● Feeling caged in
REVERSED
● Release from your cagey thoughts
● Figuring out an escape plan
● Running from your problems
● Saving yourself
9 of Swords
Lord of Despair and Cruelty
6/16/10
10°20° Gemini
Mars crashes into vacillating Gemini with troubled thoughts. As a 9, this card takes into account
the isolation and boundaries our thoughts can have.
UPRIGHT
● Anxiety, depression
● Negative thinking
● Despair
● Grief
● Nightmares
● Can’t sleep because of thinking
REVERSED
● Not confronting problems
● Retreating within rather than facing reality
● Internal struggle
● alt. A lesser version of the upright
10 of Swords
Lord of Ruin
6/116/20
20°30° Gemini
While this card represents the cruelty of dark thoughts, illuminated, and it may feel that all is
lost, it is also the end of a dark time. Often, the battle feels lost, we see just how bad things are,
and then we can recuperate. It’s a sign to leave a stage behind, and begin anew.
UPRIGHT
● Emotional/mental overkill
● Accepting and letting go
● Betrayal
● Darkest hour is before dawn
● Endings
REVERSED
● Light at the end of the tunnel
● Rebirth
● Slow recovery
● Release
Page of Swords
Earth of Air
This page is a freethinker, a lover of ideas, and practical conversation, although she lacks
mental discipline. All pages may be messengers, and this page brings news of legal matters or
gossip (sometimes causing problems). The page may find herself embroiled in arguments she
can’t win or can’t let go of.
UPRIGHT
● Blunt, rash, no filter
● Inadept communicator
● News coming
● Talkative
● Inquisitive
● Active imagination
REVERSED
● A spy
● Smart ass
● Argumentative
● Spurns authority
● Misunderstandings
Knight of Swords
Fire of Air* (in some systems, Air of Air)
5/116/10
20°30° Taurus to 0°20° Gemini
This is the fastest moving knight. He is assertive and combustible. He is courageous and wilful;
an agent of change. However, he doesn’t much pay attention to what’s ahead. See how fast
he’s going with his face guard up?
UPRIGHT
● Bravery
● Impassioned speech
● Competitive
● Opinionated
● Swift
● “Fools rush in”
REVERSED
● Harsh
● Combative
● Disregarding consequences
● Scattered thoughts
● Stopandgo
Queen of Swords
Water of Air
9/1210/12
20°30° Virgo to 0°20° Libra
This Queen uses her logic AND emotions (gutcheck) to make decisions. She is a brilliant
conversationalist and has a nononsense approach. Traditional Tarotists equate her with
sorrow, who is no stranger to loss often a widow. Being primarily Libran, she is fair and hears
both sides of the story before making a fair judgement. She can tell you like it is.
UPRIGHT
● Diplomatic
● Truth seeking and speaking
● Fair, logical
● Makes her point well
● Widow or a break up
REVERSED
● Illogical
● Spiteful
● Uses cutting words
● Can’t make decisions
● Makes unfair decisions
● Snap judgement
● Harsh
King of Swords
Air of Air* (in some systems, Fire of Air)
1/102/8
20°30° Capricorn to 0°20° Aquarius
The King of Air makes analytical decisions based on fact. He carries out his edicts swiftly and
with determination, like a military commander. He communicates clearly and honestly. As a
ruler, he is just and practical.
UPRIGHT
● Analytical
● Truthful
● Emotionless
● Fair
● Ethical
● Articulate
● Coolheaded
REVERSED
● Foggy thoughts
● Doesn’t say what they mean
● Can’t articulate thoughts well
Ace of Pentacles
Winter or Years
The promise of the manifestation of physical things money, jobs, pregnancy, etc. Planting
fruitful seeds. If you build upon a solid foundation, bounty is assured. This is the window of
opportunity opening wide at this stage.
UPRIGHT
● New opportunities
● Potential for gain
● Productive time
● New material things
● New job/Job offer
● Gifts
● Prosperity to come
REVERSED
● Lost opportunity
● In over your head
● Bleeding money
● “Almost”
● Not time to begin something new
2 of Pentacles
Lord of Harmonious Change
12/2212/30
0°10° Capricorn
Jupiter is in its fall in Capricorn, but it is still the Greater Benefic; paired with the duality of a 2,
we find rearranging, reordering, and even juggling to get things to come out well. The change
we experience in the 2 is a gentle one. We may be tweaking our budget to afford a new car, or
forming a partnership for a business enterprise.
UPRIGHT
● Adapting well to change
● Exchange (goods, services, money)
● Between 2 career options
● Budgeting
● Balance
REVERSED
● Not handling things well
● Imbalances
● Spreading yourself too thin
● Secret spending/selling/buying
3 of Pentacles
Lord of Material Works
12/311/9
10°20° Capricorn
Mars is exalted in Capricorn. This card indicates executing a plan, building foundations, and
putting in the work. This can be the college graduate in his first job, the man taking his girlfriend
on dates (wooing stage), or even starting an exercise regimen with a trainer. Spiritually, this
may be learning/studying religious doctrine. Corresponding to the Empress, this card is
creating.
UPRIGHT
● Teamwork
● Building/Creating
● Investing in business or relationships for gain
● Employment or promotion
● Recognition
REVERSED
● Working alone
● Not a team player
● Lack of recognition or fulfillment
● A pull to reconcile
4 of Pentacles
Lord of Earthly Power
1/101/19
20°30° Capricorn
4’s are of stability, and here we have achieved some earthly, materialistic goal. Money and
home are stable. Health is in order. But it also is selfcentered. The card orders its world, it
cleans its house, it saves money, it hoards.
UPRIGHT
● Realization of power
● Protection
● Stability
● Resources
● Storing up/Saving
● Guarding your heart
REVERSED
● Obstacles
● Hoarding
● Powerlessness
● Trusting others for security
5 of Pentacles
Lord of Material Trouble
4/214/30
0°10° Taurus
5’s represent trials and change, and are unstable as a whole. In earthy Pentacles, the 5’s bring
worry about money and health. Corresponding to the Hierophant, one may feel cast out and
uncared for.
UPRIGHT
● Loss of money/position/job
● Destruction of what has been built
● Injury or illness
● Fear of loss
● Feeling left out
REVERSED
● Suffering in silence
● Searching for a way back in
● Minor illness/injury
6 of Pentacles
Lord of Material Success
5/15/10
10°20° Taurus
Did you get a little boost when you needed it? Are you able to help others when they are in
need? Here in the 6, we are brought out of the cold we experienced in the 5. The influences of
nurturing Moon along with beauty loving Taurus, we find comfort and assistance.
UPRIGHT
● Fortune, success, gain
● Generosity
● Help coming or helping others
● A mother caring for her child
● Sensitivity to others’ needs
● Power imbalance one gives, one receives
REVERSED
● Illgotten gain
● Strings attached
● Ungrateful
● Greedy
● Lording over someone
7 of Pentacles
Lord of Success Unfulfilled
5/115/20
20°30° Taurus
Saturn imposes restrictions on Taurus’ growth, making the reward further away or unavailable.
Saturn here doesn’t prevent the success we long for, but it does indicate more of a waiting
period.
UPRIGHT
● Delayed gratification
● Reward comes after patience
● Sowing seeds and waiting for harvest
● Perseverance in labor
REVERSED
● Reward not coming
● Hard work not paying off
● Impatience
● Reflecting on the work done
8 of Pentacles
Lord of Prudence
8/239/1
0°10° Virgo
We find in this 8 a steadfast dedication to work, training, projects, and developing skills. This
card isn’t as concerned with success as it is with the actual process. The Sun brings clarity,
strength, and authority to Virgo’s practical skills. This person knows their craft well. It may be
they are in a state of “flow.”
UPRIGHT
● Diligent work
● Perfectionism
● Training
● Lost in your task
● Dedication to work
REVERSED
● Shoddy workmanship
● Disliking your work
● Unemployment
● Lack of skill(s)
● Boredom in work
● Not working
9 of Pentacles
Lord of Material Gain
9/29/11
10°20° Virgo
Venus is in fall in Virgo, but Venus is always benefic, so she brings beauty to this card, even
though that bounty may not be shared with others. 9’s depict balance, wisdom, and isolation.
When we do what we love in a logical way, we have all we need to succeed.
UPRIGHT
● Security
● Reaching success
● Lonely at the top
● Selfreliance
REVERSED
● Delayed success
● Insecure
● Relying on others
● Isolation
10 of Pentacles
Lord of Wealth
9/129/22
20°30° Virgo
10s are all about completion, and are usually difficult, but not in the earth suit, as the lowest of
low is exalted because it is closer to the beginning. Also, when we see the manifestation of
material gain, we have wealth. Virgo is ever concerned with financial matters. Mercury is
exalted in Virgo. This card unites, often with family or ancestors. Being in Malkuth, it may be
seen as mastery on the physical plane of all the other suits. Relating to the Wheel of Fortune
and Magician, it is knowing how to create and manage good fortune.
UPRIGHT
● Prosperity
● Connection to family ancestors
● Traditional values
● Great wealth
● Cleverness with money
● Communicating your needs and having them met
REVERSED
● Break in family structure
● Being nontraditional
● Insecure wealth
● Loss
Page of Pentacles
Earth of Earth
On an outward face, the Page is the student; the fresh eyes and ears. We see them as learners
creating a solid foundation. Inwardly, they are most connected to the mysteries of the earth, and
connect with it naturally. They may get lost in the forest, observing the trees.
UPRIGHT
● Studying or training
● Cultivating
● New projects
● Organization
● Connected to the earth, environmentalism
REVERSED
● Too cautious
● Left school or job (dropped out/graduated/transferred/fired)
● Trouble focusing
● Too many projects
Knight of Pentacles
Fire of Earth* (in some systems, Air of Earth)
8/129/11
20°30° Leo to 0°20° Virgo
The Knight of Pentacles is practical, slow, methodical, and reliable. His primary domicile is the
6th house of health and service to others. He will always follow a fixed routine. His patience
and hard work makes him an excellent employee. He will always be trustworthy and a good
provider.
UPRIGHT
● Reliable
● Consistent
● Practical
● Secure
● Patient
REVERSED
● Stubborn
● Narrowminded
● Deadend job or unemployed
● Doesn’t know when to quit
Queen of Pentacles
Water of Earth
12/131/9
20°30° Sagittarius to 0°20° Capricorn
As Sagittarius moving into cardinal Capricorn, this Queen combines her emotions with
practicality to get the job done. She rules home and hearth. She is a nurturing steward of all
things domestic. She is surrounded by physical comfort, and is secure in her surroundings.
UPRIGHT
● The ultimate wife and mother
● Having a handle on domestic matters
● Practical and loving
● Selftrust
● Fertility
REVERSED
● Poor home balance
● Unable to manage everyday stress
● A homebody/reclusive
● Infertility
● Longing to be a mother
King of Pentacles
Air of Earth* (in some systems, Fire of Earth)
4/115/10
20°30° Aries to 0°20° Taurus
The King rules over the physical world using his logic and intelligence. He is reliable and
ambitious and therefore capable of succeeding at his ambitions. He manages vast wealth. He
is concerned with finances, prosperity, and acquiring the good things in life in order to be
comfortable and independent.
UPRIGHT
● Practical person
● Moral values
● Success in business and money
● Excellent provider
● Authority over physical things
REVERSED
● Dull
● Unmoving/unchanging
● Overly rigid
● Closeminded
● Unable to manage his affairs
KEY
AIR
SCORPIO
EARTH
TAURUS
FIRE
VIRGO
WATER
JUPITER
AQUARIUS
MARS
ARIES
MERCURY
CANCER
PLUTO
CAPRICORN
MOON
GEMINI
NEPTUNE
LEO
SATURN
LIBRA
SUN
PISCES
URANUS
SAGITTARIUS
VENUS