Tag: Tara-Cards (Page 3 of 5)

TAROT’S SIX OF CUPS: BEAUTIFUL PAST REVISITED

August 9, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Six of Cups
At the foot of a stone path in a garden leading to a fortress, a child wearing a red hood offers a cup brimming with flowers to a smaller child dressed like a grownup. At their feet are four more cups also filled with flowers, and a sixth cup perches on a pedestal at the base of the path. On the face of the pedestal is a shield with an X inside. In the background we see a figure walking back up the stone path – that of a guard or a watchman perhaps - carrying a spear. — Six of Cups

Time and again we reconnect. Its like the universe nudges us to give it one more chance.
Nikki Rowe

Overview and common meanings of The Six of Cups

When the Six of Cups shows up, it is an indication of memories and ties to old friends or lovers being renewed. This is a time of nostalgia of a happy childhood and the “good old days.” This is a great invitation to get in touch with your inner child and embrace a sense of the wonder, discovery, and playfulness that children bring to the world. Alternative names in varying decks are Six of Shells, sentiment, joy, pleasure, and contentment.

Common Meanings

Six of Cups tells us that sometimes, by revisiting your past, you can gain perspective on your path going forward. Other times the card can indicate the children that are around you.

In a career related reading, Six of Cups can indicate that you will return to an old job that you once loved, or it could just be a sign of increased harmony and cooperation in your workplace. If you are curious about finances, Six of Cups can be a sign of a surprise financial gift or an inheritance. In love, the Six of Cups can be a sign of reuniting with an old lover. If you have recently ended a relationship, the Six of Cups serves as a gentle reminder to shift your focus from the way a relationship once and see what it evolved (or rather devolved) into.

The Many Faces of The Six of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal – of the Six of Cups can indicate being stuck in the past. Sometimes this being stuck in the past is a coping mechanism to avoid being present and moving forward in life. Other possible shadow indications are regret, the need for forgiveness of self and/or others. It also serves as a reminder that no person is an island, and there is a need to let walls down and let people in. Sometimes the shadow side of the Six of Cups is a reminder to not take yourself so seriously and remember to bring playfulness to your life.

Description

At the foot of a stone path in a garden leading to a fortress, a child wearing a red hood offers a cup brimming with flowers to a smaller child dressed like a grownup. At their feet are four more cups also filled with flowers, and a sixth cup perches on a pedestal at the base of the path. On the face of the pedestal is a shield with an X inside. In the background we see a figure walking back up the stone path – that of a guard or a watchman perhaps – carrying a spear.

Themes of The Six of Cups

Allegiance
Bonds of friendship, love, history
Contentment
Harmony
Love
Nostalgia
Past and Present
Playfulness
Reconciliation
Reuniting with old friends
Teamwork
Themes of your life
Youth

The Number 6

The embodiment of the heart and love. Emotional relationships, compassion, empathy, and support.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Child with red hood – intended as a reminder of childhood and the past
Child dressed as an adult – a nod to fairy-tales
Flowers – spiritual blossoming and love
Watchman and Fortress – protection and safety

Herbs for The Six of Cups

Calendula – uplifting moods, restoring well-being, promotes relaxation
Damiana – enables us to be more open, and connected within ourselves and with others
Heliotrope – Cheerfulness, gaiety, prosperity, and protection
Lavender – love, devotion, purity – the innocent state of the soul
Sweet Pea – Bliss, love, harmony, thankfulness, and loyalty

Questions that the Six of Cups asks us

How can you embrace the enthusiasm of a child in your everyday life, and what would that bring to your present state of adulthood?
What lessons from your past are showing up for you to learn again?

That is the Six of Cups. Wishing you a week of happy reunions and the lightheartedness of your childhood. Please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading. Thank you for reading and please join me next week for The Seven of Cups!

TAROT’S FIVE OF CUPS: SHIFTING PERSPECTIVE FROM DISAPPOINTMENT TO BLESSINGS

July 26, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Five of Cups Tarot Card.
Standing alone, shrouded in a dark cloakn, stands a figure. At his feet are 5 cups: three in front of him, which have spilled, their contents puddling on the ground beneath them, and two behind him, fully upright, and presumably still full. While the cups before him are spilled, behind him are two full ones…he has only to turn and shift perspective to see that he still has plenty. In front of him we see a river, and on a bluff on the other side of the river a lone fortress or dwelling. There is a bridge with two arches spanning the river a short distance to the right of the figure. — The Five of Cups

Disenchantment, whether it is a minor disappointment or a major shock, is the signal that things are moving into transition in our lives.
William Throsby Bridges

Overview and common meaning of The Five of Cups

The Five of Cups often shows up along with the realization that things are not as you thought they were, and you find yourself disillusioned. It is a great reminder that it is time to count your blessings, get over it and move on. Removing the blinders of illusion is not always a bad thing. Build a bridge into a brighter future that you want to see. It is always a great opportunity to take some quiet time to determine what the lessons were in the situation and how you can shift that moving forward. Don’t let the seeming bad things in life distract you from all the good that remains.

Some alternative names in varying decks are Hope, Re-adjustment, Warrior-Woman.

Common Meanings

In a work-related reading, you may be feeling deflated, or that you have let yourself or others down. It is time to glean what lesson you can from the situation, realize this is temporary, and move on. If you are seeking work and are not having luck, take heart, the right thing will appear for you.

In a love related reading, if you are seeking love, you may find yourself temporarily disappointed as something that seemed full of promise is not quite what you had originally thought or hoped. It is also a good opportunity to do a bit of self-analysis and ask yourself if you are expecting too much too soon. In an established relationship the Five of Cups can sometimes indicate that you are nearing a point where you choose to go separate ways, at least temporarily. It can also serve as a metaphorical separation; that of letting go of the illusions of what you thought something was so that you may clearer see what it actually is.

The Many Faces of The Five of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal – of the five of cups can indicate being stuck in old trauma and patterns, becoming cynical and jaded. It can also indicate that you have done the work, forgiven yourself and others, have moved past this darkest time, and things are starting to turn around for you. It could be a sign that you are ready to reconnect with old friends and loved ones after a period of isolation.

Description of the Five of Cups

Standing alone, shrouded in a dark cloak with shoulders hunched in seeming dejection, stands a figure. At his feet are 5 cups: three in front of him, which have spilled, their contents puddling on the ground beneath them, and two behind him, fully upright, and presumably still full. While the cups before him are spilled, behind him are two full ones…he has only to turn and shift perspective to see that he still has plenty. In front of him we see a river, and on a bluff on the other side of the river a lone fortress or dwelling. There is a bridge with two arches spanning the river a short distance to the right of the figure.

Themes of The Five of Cups

Disenchantment
Duplicity
Forgiveness
Frustration
Grieving
Resentment

The Number 5

The number 5 is a holy number in many of earths religions: – in Christianity, the 5 holy wounds of Christ; Hinduism – The five elements; Islam – the Five Pillars of Islam. In numerology 5 is the card of curiosity of the spiritual nature, but also that of imbalance and upset. Five is the number of humanity and a reminder that we all experience disillusionment at some point in our lives.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Black cloak – shrouded, surrounded by the need to mourn something
River- separation, a barrier
Bridge – the means of crossing that separation and returning to home
Spilled cups – past or present loss
Upright cups – There remains plenty of support and love
Fortress/dwelling – stability, happiness. In the Five of Cups it is across the river, a seeming barrier to achieving the sanctuary of home.

Herbs for The Five of Cups

Bee Balm – calms nervous system and uplifts the heart
Borage – Courage; lifts spirit and gladdens the heart
Hawthorn – protection and openness healer of heartache and grief
Linden – calming heart tonic; protective, comforting, through times of grief
Mimosa – Sadness, loss, heartache, grief. Can help when mourning the things you are letting go from your life.

Questions that the Five of Cups asks us

Are you grieving a situation that is not as you had hoped, and if so, are you neglecting to notice all the blessings that are still in abundance all around you?

Do you feel like you are coming out of a long period of introspection, and what lessons and visions are you bringing forth into this new reality?

That is the Five of Cups. Wishing you a week in which, as illusion falls away, the reality of blessings become clear. Thank you for reading, and as always, please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading. Please join me next week for the Six of Cups!

TAROT’S FOUR OF CUPS EMPHASIZES RESTLESSNESS AND NEED FOR CHANGE

July 19, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Four of Cups. Sitting alone in the shade of a lone tree at the top of a gentle hill, is a male figure gazing down as if in thought. Both arms and legs are crossed At his feet is a neat row of three cups. A hand emerges from a cloud, holding the fourth cup in offering to him. — Four of Cups

You must have a level of discontent to feel the urge to want to grow.
Idowu Koyenikan

Overview and common meanings of The Four of Cups

When The four of cups shows up, it is often to magnify restlessness and disenchantment, but it also reminds us that there is support for us and that others see our light even when we cannot. A time of reflection and meditation is called for. This can also herald a time of new opportunities appearing in your life, that you are allowing to pass without taking advantage of – whether because you are too busy, or just don’t have the energy.

This is a great time to tap into your inner knowing and identify what is truly important to you. It can also indicate a possessive sort of sentimentality – not wanting to let go of what we have, regardless of whether it brings us joy. It is a gentle suggestion to take the time to see the world around you and how much good there is in it. Some other names, in varying decks are soul searching, re-evaluation, abundance.

Common Meanings

In relationship readings, if you are seeking one, Four of Cups gently reminds us that oftentimes we need to do the work of healing past relationship trauma before we are truly able to open to another in a fulfilling relationship. If you are currently involved, it can indicate a time of boredom and emphasize the need to shake things up and inject some romance into your relationship. It also serves as a caution against staying in relationships out of habit.

In a reading regarding work and home, Four of Cups may highlight feelings of restlessness and dissatisfaction; the need to make a positive change. Often you will find that these are small shifts to change the narrative of your perspective and it will feel like new life being breathed into the situation.

The Many Faces of The Four of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal- of the Four of cups is much like the upright meaning, only magnified. It is a good time to really take stock of what you want in your life and what changes you need to implement to make that happen, and oftentimes the only way to accomplish this is through a time of retreat and introspection. Reversed, the crossed legs of the figure in the four of cups is reminiscent of the Hanged Man, and much like the hanged man holds the key to his own freedom, so, too, does the man in the four of cups. Dig deep and figure out how to release yourself from self-imposed bondage of boredom and dissatisfaction.

Description of the Four of Cups

Sitting alone in the shade of a lone tree at the top of a gentle hill, is a male figure gazing down as if in thought. Both arms and legs are crossed At his feet is a neat row of three cups. A hand emerges from a cloud, holding the fourth cup in offering to him.

Themes of The Four of Cups

Boredom
Detachment
Dissatisfaction
Introspection
Meditation
Reflection
Restlessness
Weariness

The Number 4

Four is the number of stability, practicality and pragmatism; efficiency and strength; conservative development. It denotes creativity, but the kind that builds a solid foundation. In association with cups, the suit of emotions and feelings, number four can also indicate inertia and stagnation.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Male with crossed legs and arms – dissatisfaction, focus on lack, but also introspection and meditation
Tree – life and strength
Hand emerging from cloud – symbolic of new beginnings and hope
Cups – emotions, that which we feel and have.

Herbs for The Four of Cups

Ashwagandha – calms the mind and lowers cortisol levels. Helps with mental fatigue, stress, and exhaustion
Chamomile – gentle relaxant and nerve restorative for exhaustion
Licorice root – supports adrenals, which helps manage stress
Lemon Balm – calming and promoting trust, psychic/spiritual development.
Peony – for becoming receptive, opening to your spiritual gifts and intuition

Questions that the Four of Cups asks us

Are you so focused on what is imperfect in your life that you are missing out on the good?
How can you take advantage of this time of introspection and growth so that you emerge from this chrysalis as a glorious butterfly?

That is the Four of Cups. If you have been feeling the need for change and growth, wishing you a week in which you find time to tap into your intuition and vision for your own highest and best good. As always, please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading if you feel so called. Thank you for reading and please join me next week for the Five of Cards!

TAROT’S THREE OF CUPS: THE BEST TIMES WITH THE BEST PEOPLE

July 12, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Three of Cups. Three barefoot female figures wearing wreaths on their heads, raise their cups in celebration. They appear to be dancing in joy and camaraderie. Two hold the cups in their right hand, which is the hand of giving, and the third in her left, the hand of receiving, indicating that they the balance in both giving and receiving. One is wearing red robes, one yellow, and one white. One holds a cluster of grapes in the hand that is not toasting. Scattered on the ground around them are flowers, pumpkins, clusters of grapes and apples -the signs of an abundant harvest. — Three of Cups

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom
Marcel Proust

Overview and common meanings of The Three of Cups

The Three of Cups is a time of celebration and plenty, of carefree simple fun. This can be a season of parties, weddings, or just gatherings with the people in your life that you enjoy. A great time to be around people with high vibrations and energy levels and raise your own in the process. There can even be a bit of light flirtation in the energy.

Some alternate names from varying decks are Playfulness, bliss, fullness, corn dance.

Common Meanings

In work readings, the three of cups indicates a harmonious team effort at work, where creativity is flowing. If you are seeking work, the camaraderie aspect of this card reminds us to tap into our social and personal networks. In love, it is a great time to just enjoy where you are, whether that is single and having fun, or in a flirty new relationship. If you are in an established relationship, this card brings back some of the playful lightness of your relationship. Sometimes the three of cups can indicate a relationship that contains three people – be it a family unit, three close friends, or in non-traditional relationships that don’t just contain a couple.

The Many Faces of the Three of Cups

The Shadow side – or reversal – of the Three of cups can indicate carelessness and shallowness. Sometimes this looks like a flirtation gone too far, an affair, or overindulgence in unhealthy things. It can also indicate a creative blockage and remind us to take some time to find our balance again before delving back into the creative process. Sometimes it is simply the need to spend some time alone recharging our batteries and visioning what kind of relationships we want in our life.

Description of the three of cups

Three barefoot female figures wearing wreaths on their heads, raise their cups in celebration. They appear to be dancing in joy and camaraderie. Two hold the cups in their right hand, which is the hand of giving, and the third in her left, the hand of receiving, indicating that they the balance in both giving and receiving. One is wearing red robes, one yellow, and one white. One holds a cluster of grapes in the hand that is not toasting. Scattered on the ground around them are flowers, pumpkins, clusters of grapes and apples -the signs of an abundant harvest.

Themes of The Three of Cups

Abundance
Balance
Celebration
Creative collaboration
Family
Flirtation
Friendship
Playfulness
Reunion
Vitality

The Number Three

Three is the number of creative expression. Following the number two, of partnerships, the number three brings a third element – the birth of a child or a creative enterprise. It is is tied to the cycles and seasons in life, understanding, and growth, mother, maiden, crone.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Cups – the cups, which are about emotions, are raised in a toast to companionship and good company
Dancing- celebrations in life
Hands that hold the cups – the right hand is the hand of giving, and the left, receiving, indicating that the best relationships in life are those in which we can do both.
Harvest of abundance – celebrations in life and reaping the harvests of friendship and success
Robes – red hearkens to justice, yellow and white to temperance, and white to strength
Wreaths – traditionally worn for celebrations of all kinds; another indication of the joys found in companionship

Herbs for The Three of Cups

Azalea – Enjoyment, merriment, lightness in love and friendships
Calla Lilies -genuine friendship, heartfelt admiration, and respect
Hops – mirth and joy
Iris – rejuvenation and transformation, companionship, trust, and faith.
Vervain – Protection, peace, healing, good fortune

Questions that the Three of Cups asks us

When was the last time you connected with the people who fill your cup of joy, inspiration, and peace?
How can you bring a feeling of unity and celebration to your everyday life?

That is the Three of cups: overflowing with the abundance of heart connections. Wishing you a week of celebration and opportunities to dance just for the joy of it. Please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading if you are feeling called to that. Thank you for reading and please join me next week for the Four of Cups!

Joy and Blessings;

Tara

TAROT’S TWO OF CUPS IS ALL ABOUT POWERFUL PARTNERSHIPS

July 6, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Two of Cups: Two figures, a male and a female. The female wears long white robes with a blue mantle, reminiscent of the High Priestess, with a laurel wreath on her head. The male wears a tunic, leggings, and boots, colored and reminiscent of the fool, and is crowned with a floral wreath. They each hold out a golden vessel to the other, from which a caduceus – a symbol of healing – rises. The male is also extending a hand to the female. Overlooking all is a red lion’s head sprouting wings. In the distant background we see the red roof of a house that is surrounded by trees and perched on a gentle slope. — Two of Cups

Together, we form a necessary paradox; not a senseless contradiction.
Criss Jami

Overview and Common Meanings of the Two of Cups

The Mutual love and respect between two people create magic when the two of cups show up. The two of cups is about the connection found in those true partnerships, whether they be deep and romantic, life-long friendships, or even business.

Common Meanings

This is a true meeting of the minds of two people who enhance, inspire, and bring out the best in each other. Not only are these people supportive of one another, but there is also a great deal of mutual respect, which all the best true partnerships have. These are those connections in life that are precious and rare. Celebrate and revel in these special relationships.

The Many Faces of The Two of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal of the Two of Cups can indicate relationship stress, that things are not all as they seem. Sometimes in an established relationship, this is a sign of life interrupting your relationship and putting the love and passion on the back burner for now while more immediate concerns are being addressed. Can sometimes indicate that you are no longer a good fit in your current relationship and that it has run its course. The shadow side of the Two of Cups is also a call to work on self-love, for you will never be fully able to love another without first loving yourself. This can be a sign of emotional blocks, being closed off and unable to receive love, past trauma impacting present, and separation.

Description of the Two of Cups

Standing in front of a backdrop of blue sky that covers 4/5ths of the card, are two figures. The female wears long white robes with a blue mantle, reminiscent of the High Priestess, with a laurel wreath on her head. The male wears a tunic, leggings, and boots, colored and reminiscent of the fool, and is crowned with a floral wreath. They each hold out a golden vessel to the other, from which a caduceus – a symbol of healing – rises. The male is also extending a hand to the female. Overlooking all is a red lion’s head sprouting wings. In the distant background we see the red roof of a house that is surrounded by trees and perched on a gentle slope.

Themes of The Two of Cups

Love
Desire
Companionship
Partnerships
Empathy
Alliance
Harmony
Sexual relations
Consecration by nature

The Number 2

The number two is feminine and, as such, presents duality: representing both grace and power; Yin/Yang, Male/female, Light/Dark, Action/Meditation, as well as significant relationships and partnerships. This number is representative of the dichotomy of true wisdom.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Caduceus – ancient emblem of commerce, barter, and healing
Cups – emotions
Garlands – Laurel or olive, and flowers – together signify success and love
Home – harmony in domestic situations
Man – in colors reminiscent of the fool indicating new beginnings and leaps of faith
Woman in white and blue robes – blue for truth, white for purity and connection to subconscious
Winged lion head – passionate, fiery, sexual energy

Herbs for The Two of Cups

Cinnamon – love, power, and positivism; the strength of love
Lavender – love, devotion, purity – the innocent state of the soul
Orange Blossom – The Orange Tree symbolizes Innocence, Purity, Fertility, and Lasting Love.
saffron – encourage sexuality and boost fruitfulness
Spearmint, love, healing, and insight

Questions that the Two of Cups asks us

If you were to have a heartfelt conversation with someone who you like, admire, and respect, what would it tell you about yourself?
Are you giving and receiving the appropriate energy and effort in the relationships in your life that are important?

That is the Two of Cups, harbinger of deep partnerships. Wishing you a week in which you drop into these experiences how ever they show up for you in your life and take a moment to feel gratitude for them. Thank you for reading, and as always, please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading. Please join me next week for the Three of Cups!

Blessings;

Tara

THE ACE OF CUPS OF THE TAROT: EUPHORIC BEGINNINGS IN LIFE AND LOVE

June 28, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

Tarot cards - The Ace of Cups
a large hand is open with a golden chalice bearing an inverted M resting in the palm. From the chalice, 5 streams of water flow down to a pond on which waterlilies float. There are water droplets all around and below the chalice. Above the chalice is a dove, facing or flying downwards into the chalice, holding within its beak a cross within a circle, or a wafer that is imprinted with the cross and circle. — The Ace of Cups

Overview and common meanings of The Ace of Cups in Tarot

When the Ace of Cups shows up, divine love and empathy flow through you. The Ace of Cups is about beginnings and love. Alternate names in varying decks: Happiness, abundance.

Begin today. Declare out loud to the universe that you are willing to let go of struggle and eager to learn through joy
Sarah Ban Breathnach

Common Meanings

The Ace of cups can indicate that a love connection – whether it be a romantic connection or that of a parent and child, takes priority above work, finances, and projects. It is also the card of “good vibes,” in friendships and camaraderie and love. A card of new beginnings, The Ace of Cups is “pregnant with possibilities, and can sometimes denote an actual pregnancy.

The Many Faces of The Ace of Cups

The reversal, or shadow side, of the Ace of cups demonstrates self-love and reminds us that before we can love others, we first need to love ourselves. Reversal can indicate fertility issues, blockages in creativity, insecurity, doubt and feeling unable to trust the people you should be trusting. The shadow side can also indicate feeling emotionally drained due to the need to care for another. It can be a sign of being attacked by emotional vampirism. It is also a time to trust these insecurities and look beyond what you want to see, to what is. A reversal in a love reading about a new relationship can also be a warning that this is not what you wish it to be. Dependence, jealousy, avarice, or bewilderment.

Description of the Ace of Cups

Emerging from clouds, a large hand is open with a golden chalice bearing an inverted M resting in the palm. From the chalice, 5 streams of water flow down to a pond on which waterlilies float. There are water droplets all around and below the chalice. Above the chalice is a dove, facing or flying downwards into the chalice, holding within its beak a wafer that is imprinted with the cross and circle.

Themes of The Ace of Cups

Artistic
Beginnings
Compassion
Creativity
Emotional
Feminine
Growth
Love
New Relationships
Water

Aces

Aces, as number 1’s, in every suit always offer an invitation to risk, to begin, to say yes. They are the beginning of a new cycle. In the suit of cups, you are saying yes to a bigger and better life, joy, relationship. Aces bring the natural vitality of their suits. They are aligned with the divine and represent beginnings instincts, and new opportunities.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Hand – understanding and realization of spiritual force
Chalice- subconscious mind
Dove- divine love flowing through subconscious to conscious
5 Streams of water- the five senses (sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch) flowing from the subconscious mind
Pond with waterlilies – the awakening of the human spirit
W or Inverted M – The ambiguity of water, mercurial and changing, subconscious.

Herbs for The Ace of Cups

Caraway – incites passion while providing protection, helps establish loving bond
Cinquefoil – Balance; The five points of the leaf represent love, money, health, power, and wisdom
Daisy- abundance, joy, happiness, transformation
Damiana – stimulates a healthy libido; enables us to be more open, and connected within ourselves and with others
Pine – rebirth, wisdom

Questions that the Ace of Cups asks us

Is there new relationship energy around you right now – be it romantic, or even friendships, and if so, how can you honor that energy?
How can you focus more on self-care and self-love in your day-to-day life?

That is the Ace of Cups, fresh and shiny with euphoric new beginnings. Wishing you a week of basking in the beauty that new brings to your life. Please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading. Thank you for reading and please join me next week for the 2 of Cups.

THE MINOR ARCANA OF THE TAROT HIGHLIGHTS WHERE YOU ARE NOW

June 23, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Minor Arcana tends to deal with the more day to day aspects of life…where you are. The Minor Arcana tends to be more self-actualized lessons and choices that you can make about your journey going forward.

Overview and introduction to the Minor Arcana of the Tarot

While the Major Arcana tends to be major life events and deals with the big stuff, The Minor Arcana tends to deal with the more day to day aspects of life…where you are. The Minor Arcana tends to be more self-actualized lessons and choices that you can make about your journey going forward. I often like to think of them as course correction cards. Perfect for the compass.

The Minor Arcana consists of four suits, much like standard playing cards. The suits within the Minor Arcana are Cups (water), Pentacles (earth), Swords (air), and Wands (fire). Similar to the individual septenaries that exist within the Major Arcana, each suit of the Minor Arcana also takes its own journey in the first 10 cards of each suit – a climb, a fall, a resolution.

Pip Cards in the minor arcana of the tarot

The Minor Arcana, as mentioned above, consists of four suits. There are within each suit 10 numbered cards, which are referred to as “pip cards.” In modern decks, these pip cards also have pictures, in traditional tarot decks they did not, and so, were the closest cards within a tarot deck to a traditional deck of playing cards.

Court Cards of the minor arcana of the tarot

Each suit also has four court cards or face cards. These are Page, Knight, Queen, King, and they are collectively referred to as the court cards.

The Suits of the minor arcana of the tarot

Cups

Cups, which represent the element of water, generally deal with watery elements like emotions, feelings, relationships, and heart connections. Cups remind us of the importance of fluidity, intuition, healing, and cleansing. Water is a feminine element and reflects the subtle power that often resides within women: sympathetic, flexible, cleansing and fluid. In varying decks, cups are also known as vessels or chalices.

Pentacles

Pentacles are associated with the element of Earth. Earth represents things that are tangible. Things like money, physical or outward consciousness health, finances, work, and creativity. They are more about the external things around us and how we create it, shape it, transform it, and grow it. Pentacles are also associated with the ego, self-esteem, and self-image, growth and development, nature such as plants and trees and how we can keep the world around us healthy as well as how we can ground ourselves in our life. In varying decks, pentacles are also known as discs or coins.

Swords

Swords, which represent the element of air, are thought processes and intellect, rationality, knowledge, power, change and masculinity. As swords can often be double edged, so too does the masculine rational energy of the swords suit present a duality of finding balance between intellect and control. In varying decks, swords are also known as blades and feathers.

Wands

Wands – The element associated with wands is fire, so wands bring an energy that is hot, wild, unpredictable. It is a primal energy in which we also see mysticism, creativity, resolve, power, insight, ambition and expansion, original ideas, and the seeds through which life springs forth. Fire can bring with it inspiration in creating new things, or it can be destructive, like a destructive forest or house fire. In varying decks, wands are also staves, scepters, or pipes.

That is a brief overview of the Minor Arcana and each suit. I will be talking more in depth about the characteristics of each suit in the coming weeks. Next week we are going to start with the Cups suit, with the Ace of Cups. Thank you for reading and as always, please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading.

COMPLETION AND SUCCESS: THE WORLD TAROT CARD

June 13, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The World Tarot Card
When The World Tarot Card shows up, it indicates a completion of a cycle of life, success, and joy. It is one of those cards that is totally positive, even in reverse. Literally the world is your oyster, and it is time to take a breath and rest in that success for a bit before beginning a new cycle of life. — The World

Action is the normal completion of the act of will which begins as prayer. That action is not always external, but it is always some kind of effective energy
William Inge

Overview and Common meanings of The World Tarot Card

When The World Tarot Card shows up, it indicates a completion of a cycle of life, success, and joy. It is one of those cards that is totally positive, even in reverse. Literally the world is your oyster, and it is time to take a breath and rest in that success for a bit before beginning a new cycle of life. Alternative names in varying decks – The Universe, Completion, Infinity, Fulfillment.

Common Meanings

A card of deep joy; of dreams coming true. In a reading about home matters the manifestation of your dream home. Relationships are fulfilling and loving, and if you are in a long-term relationship, it can indicate the next phase – marriage, moving in together, starting a family. Can also indicate that the cycle of this relationship has come to completion. Be sure to acknowledge the journey you took together and accept that it is time to move on for both of you. If you are wondering about career/money, it indicates achieving goals, promotions, gifts received. It can also literally mean world travel.

The Many Faces of The World tarot card

The shadow side – or reversal of the World can indicate a readiness to move on, but feeling blocked in some way – self sabotage, imposter syndrome, not feeling deserving of the good. Can also show up when there is a need for closure. Unmet dreams, delays. May indicate need to evaluate what is and is not working and make some adjustments from there. In any event, the shadow side of The World is still positive but could indicate that getting what you want is going to take longer than you wish.

The Journey of The World

This is the final card of the third and final septenary of the Major Arcana, which is about the spiritual world and attainment of enlightenment, of reaching goals. There is a sense of wholeness and completion that arrives with The World. You have achieved what you have been working towards. This is a great time to pause and express gratitude for where your journey has taken you this far; also, a good time to reflect on the lessons learned and vision how you want the next cycle of growth to manifest for you before leaping into the next cycle.

Description of The World Tarot Card

A female figure dominates the center of the card. She is clad in a loose purple wrap that covers her hips but leaves her top half naked and flows off, the ends trailing. Her left knee is bent. In her hands she carries two wands. She is surrounded by a Laurel wreath or garland with red twined around in the shape of an X both top and bottom. The four corners of the card contain an angel, eagle, lion, and bull.

Themes of The World

Accomplishment
Completion
Happy Endings
Integration
Joy
Reward
Success
Self-Love/Acceptance
Wholeness
World travel

The Number 21

The number 21 signifies shelter, calm, and tolerance during a transitional period in life, and getting ready to start a new chapter or phase of life. Take some time to celebrate milestones, no matter how big or small. You are exactly where you need to be at this instant. life is continually going ahead in a more positive direction.

Elements of the World Card and Associated Symbolism

Female figure – the cosmic dancer, one with the universe with one foot on the ground and the other in the air, indicating the necessary combination of physical and dreams
Laurel wreath – victory
Ribbon – tied in an elliptical representing infinity
Wands – balance of opposites – logic and magic or intuition
Angel, Bull, Eagle, Lion – the four elements – water, earth, air, fire
Purple Wrap- the color of divinity; reminder that we are all connected

Herbs for The World

Alfalfa – luck, prosperity, overall good fortune
Banyan – luck, success, good marriage
Basil – success
cinnamon – love, power, and positivism; the strength of love
Irish Moss – Improved revenue and overall good luck

Questions that The World tarot card asks us

What cycle in your life is coming to and end and how can you honor and celebrate that success and completion?
Is it time for you to re-evaluate a goal you have been working towards and determine if it is still something that you want?

That is The World – the attainment of spiritual, material, and emotional success. It also brings us to the end of our journey through the Major Arcana. Wishing you a week in which you pause to be in gratitude for your journey thus far and where you are now. Smell those roses and give thanks.

Thank you for reading and as always, please reach out with comments, questions, or to request a reading. Please join me next week with an introduction to the Minor Arcana, and the beginning of that next journey through the Tarot. I will continue to guide you as your compass on this journey.

Best wishes –

Tara

INTUITION MARRIES INTELLECT IN THE JUDGEMENT TAROT CARD

June 7, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

Tarot Card - Judgement
The top half of the card is dominated by an angelic winged figure blowing a horn from which hangs a white flag separated into 4 quadrants by a large red cross. Under him are naked men, women, and children standing in coffins in the shadows and all with arms raised — Judgement

Overview and Common Meanings of the Judgement Tarot Card

When Judgement shows up, it is often an indication of a crossroads in life and the need to make big decisions that will alter the course of life going forward. It is important that in making these decisions, you tap into your intuition as well as your intelligence and use the experiences from your past to guide you into a better future. Alternative names in varying decks – The Angel, Awakening, Fame, Rebirth, Spirit Guide, Time.

To liberate yourself from your own self-judgment is to liberate others from it as well. To love yourself is an act of love for the world.
Vironika Tugaleva

Common Meanings

Let go of your old identity and step into the new form of who you really are. Judgement is a personal wake up call and take a look at our past actions and determine how we judge ourselves based on them. This may also take the form of a wake up call in a new relationship with our spiritual beliefs, higher power, God, guides, whatever they may be. Judgement may also be a call to some form of sacred service. Judgement is all about how we judge ourselves. When Judgement shows up, it is time to decide about your past because wonderful changes are on the horizon that you can only embrace once you have addressed and resolved all of the past issues. Have you behaved with integrity and honesty?

Regarding home, when Judgement shows up it could indicate being drawn to an old property or place that holds happy memories, and you will need to decide regarding property soon. Relationships move into new phases, reconciliation, or even possibly renewing an old relationship. In career, Judgement almost always indicates that success and financial improvement is pending, but also a draw to something that has more meaning going forward.

The Many Faces of Judgement

The shadow side – or reversal of Judgement indicates Insecurity, not revealing your true self, a need to let go of a dark facet of yourself. Often times the shadow side of the judgement card indicates that you are not heeding the messages from the universe about your path. These messages and lessons will keep showing up until you learn them. The shadow side is also a gentle reminder about the negative self-talk and inner critic in all of us, and the need to silence that inner dialog. You do this not by ignoring it, but rather by facing it squarely and addressing all of these fears and concerns, one by one. You may just find that these mountains, are in fact, molehills after all.

The Journey of Judgement

Remember that we are almost to the end of the third and final septenary of the Major Arcana, which is about the spiritual world and attainment of enlightenment.

We have reached a sanctuary with the sun, but before our journey can be complete, we need to make some decisions and gain some acceptance of our past.

Description of the Judgement Tarot Card

The top half of the card is dominated by an angelic winged figure blowing a horn from which hangs a white flag separated into 4 quadrants by a large red cross. Under him are naked men, women, and children standing in coffins in the shadows and all with arms raised.

Themes of Judgement

Acceptance
Insight
Liberation
Life altering decisions utilizing a combination of intuition and intelligence
Purging of guilt or sadness from past experiences.
Redemption
Spiritual Emergence
Self-awareness
Self-forgiveness
Transformation
Willingness to be transparent and honest about who you are

The Number 20

The core essence of the number 20 is about teamwork and working for greater good. Paired with the meaning of the Judgement card, it indicates a need to play well with your own past and subconscious and find peace going forward.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Angel – realization and redemption
Horn/Trumpet – the sounding of the trumpet calls upon us to review our past and decide.
Mountain ranges – insurmountable obstacles
People (the dead) rising – resurrection and rebirth
Red and white flag – unification of opposites; a crossroads in life

Herbs for Judgement

Golden Seal – healing success
Sunflower – adoration, self-respect, loyalty
Tea Tree – Removing uncertainty and improving harmony
Tobacco – peace, personal strength, and confidence
Wisteria – Increases vibrations, encourages spiritual opening, conquers difficulties, and attracts success.

Questions that the Judgement Tarot Card asks us

Are you at a crossroads in life and have already made the subconscious decision to move in a new direction, and if so, what steps do you need to take to bring that new direction to fruition?
Have you taken the time to take a personal inventory of your life up to now and what you can let go of in order to live more aligned with who you are now?

That is the Judgement Tarot card. Wishing you a week in which you take the steps to bring your highest and best dreams to fruition. Thank you for reading and as always, please leave comments, or ask questions, or reach out for a reading. Please join me next week for The World!

THE SUN TAROT CARD: IT’S ALL GOOD

May 30, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

19. The Sun Tarot Card
A smiling naked child with opens arms wearing a garland of flowers crowned by a red feather, carries a red banner, while riding a white horse. Behind is a wall separating him from a field of tall sunflowers. Overlooking the scene is a large sun, lending warmth and light. — The sun

It’s always sunny above the clouds. Always. Every day on earth – every day I have ever had – was secretly sunny, after all.
Caitlin Moran

Overview and common meanings of The Sun Tarot Card

One of the most positive cards in the Major Arcana, The Sun Tarot card indicates success, and improvement in all areas of life – love, health, money, recognition. Just as the sun brings new life springing forth from the soil in spring, the sun card heralds new optimism and life after a time of dormancy or darkness. Alternate names in varying decks are The Phoenix, The Children, Vitality, Joy.

Common Meanings

The sun indicates balance and harmony between subconscious and conscious. With this energy, we are complete – the perfect marriage of the mystic subconscious to the practical material world. All is in balance and harmony. For Home – happiness and contentment, could indicate a child arriving in the home. Relationships flourish and thrive. Career recognition and acknowledgement; could indicate an exciting new opportunity or offer if you have been looking to make a change. If you have been struggling, the sun brings a message that things are about to get better in a big way. It is time to finally exhale and know that everything is going to be alright. The sun also reconnects us to our own inner power – that authentic higher self-power that we sometimes lose sight of when we are in the weeds, but which is always there waiting for us to reconnect and re-affirm who we are in our deepest self.

The Many Faces of The Sun

The shadow side, or reversal can indicate delays, negative mind set, self-doubt, need to tune out negativity and seek inspiration. The shadow sun may also indicate that you are not in touch with what you can actually achieve and maybe have been over promising. This leads to overwhelm in all areas, so it is a call to set aside the burdens of your responsibility if only for a little while and recapture that childlike unfettered joy.

The Journey of The Sun

We are still working in the third septenary of the fool’s journey through the Major Arcana, which as you will recall is about the spiritual world and attainment of enlightenment. It is about transcendence and religious, spiritual, and mystical understanding. After we shattered ego with The Tower, began to see faith, hope, and inspiration with The Star, turned inwards in the uncomfortable lessons about trusting our intuition in a purer way with absence of ego; now we can finally bring all of those lessons out in the warm sunshine as the pieces are starting to fit together and we can harness some of the suns hopeful positivity.

Description of the sun tarot card

A smiling naked child with opens arms wearing a garland of flowers crowned by a red feather, carries a red banner, while riding a white horse. Behind is a wall separating him from a field of tall sunflowers. Overlooking the scene is a large sun, lending warmth and light.

Themes of The Sun

Abundance
Balance between subconscious and conscious
Confirmation
Fun
Inner peace and beauty
Inspiration
Joy
Love
Manifestation of hopes and dreams
Sanctuary
Success
Vitality
YES

The Number 19

Number 19 signifies the service of humankind, spiritual illumination, insight, self-awareness, uniqueness, endings, and new beginnings. This number also indicates drive, autonomy, self-sufficiency, discovery, empathy, acceptance, passion, and a potent initiative.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Child – inner child, virtue, and purity. Nakedness indicates openness; nothing to hide
The Sun – Awareness and Joy, self-expression, light after the darkness
Sunflowers – evolution, beauty, power, turning always towards the light symbolizes always seeking higher growth and enlightenment in life.
Red banner – momentum and vitality
Red feather – Freedom, life force, good fortune
Wall/Walled Garden – limitations and safety, protection
White horse – vehicle for spirit/physical form

Herbs for The Sun

Basil – success, prosperity and peace, career and business luck.
Calendula – uplifting moods, restoring well-being, promotes relaxation
Oregano – wealth and money luck
Patchouli – calming, attracts lots of luck.
Spearmint, love, healing, and insight

Questions that the Sun asks us

Have you recently emerged into the sunlight after a “dark night of the soul,” and what insights is the sun shedding on your experience?
How can you harness the positivity of the sun in your day-to-day life?

So that is the sun! Wishing you a week of warmth, insight, and positive revelations. As always, please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading.

Thank you for reading and be sure to join me next week for Judgement!