Tag: The MInor Arcana

THE KNIGHT OF PENTACLES: HARD WORK REAPS GREAT REWARDS

October 17, 2023 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Knight of Pentacles.
Against a brilliant yellow background, a knight in full armor sits atop his mighty black steed. The Knight wears a red tunic over his armor, and the bridle and other trappings of the horse are also red. He gazes both at the large pentacle (coin) in his hand and also at what is in front of him. The land around seems somewhat barren, as though he is in a field that has been made ready to plant, but nothing has begun to grow. The knight wears a sprig of oak leaves on his helm and the horse has the same sprig on its bridle. — The Knight of Pentacles

Overview and Common Meanings of The Knight of Pentacles

The Knight of Pentacles represents diligence, responsibility, and practicality. This card embodies the qualities of a methodical and determined individual who approaches tasks with a strong work ethic. The Knight of Pentacles encourages a slow and steady approach to achieving one’s goals, emphasizing the importance of consistency and reliability in all endeavors. This card also signifies a focus on financial matters and material stability, suggesting the need for careful planning and a disciplined approach to money and resources. In varying decks, the Knight of Pentacles is known as endurance, determination, and the ambitious builder.

The man who is prepared has his battle half fought
Miguel de Cervantes

Common Meanings

The Knight of Pentacles can sometimes point towards the routine aspects of life such as the daily grind, repetitive schedule, or routine. This knight knows that those small details are what makes the eventual goal more attainable. He is willing to commit to taking all the steps, no matter how trivial they may seem, in order to reach his goal.

In a reading that is related to work or finances, the Knight of Pentacles reminds you that now is not the time for a wildly innovative idea, but rather to stick to the routine that works. If you are seeking work, this is a time to be methodical in your approach. Perhaps create a system to keep track of resumes and interviews in such a way that you can study the data and learn from it as you plot your next steps.

In a relationship or love reading, when looking for love, the message of the Knight of Pentacles is much the same as it is for career or life in general. Keep on keeping on and keep doing what you are doing. This is a marathon and not a sprint.

If you are in an established relationship, Knight of Pentacles is an indication that you are in your groove and adhering to standard routines. It can be an indication of boredom; in which case the relationship might benefit from a break in the routine – such as a weekend getaway or incorporating a new hobby of some sort.

The Many Faces of the Knight of Pentacles

The shadow side – or reversal – of the Knight of Pentacles can indicate workaholic tendencies, or laziness, procrastination, or beginning something without doing all of your due diligence. It is a reminder to pay attention and make sure you have all your ducks in a row before embarking on this new idea that is shining so brightly in your mind.

Description

Against a brilliant yellow background, a knight in full armor sits atop his mighty black steed. The Knight wears a red tunic over his armor, and the bridle and other trappings of the horse are also red. He gazes both at the large pentacle (coin) in his hand and also at what is in front of him. The land around seems somewhat barren, as though he is in a field that has been made ready to plant. The knight wears a sprig of oak leaves on his helm and the horse has the same sprig on its bridle.

Themes of The Knight of Pentacles

Dependability
Determination
Diligence
Faith
Growth
Practicality
Thoughtful, methodical progress

Court Cards – Knights

Knights are known as prince, warrior, seeker. Both knights and Pages can represent either young people or influences. They are action, often impulsive action, although less so with the Knight of Pentacles. While most knights’ horses are in action, the horse of the Knight of Pentacles is at rest. The knight scans the horizon and makes careful decisions. Since Pentacles deal with earthly, material matters, the Knight represents a youthful person beginning a new endeavor.

Unlike the Knight of Cups, who is ruled by emotions and dives in before thinking things through, the Knight of Pentacles favors a more methodical and thoughtful approach. He is ready to begin his journey but has taken the time to make sure that his ideas have legs and are practical. However, since he is still a young person, he doesn’t have the benefit of wisdom that is gained through years of living.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Armor – defense, preparation
Horse standing still – a measured approach, taking the time to ensure moves are right.
Red harness, bridle, and chest band on horse
Sprigs of oak on Knights helmet and bridle of horse – long life, strength, stability, durability, control, even handedness, and honesty
Unplanted soil – fertile ground, ready to grow the seeds planted by hard work
Yellow Background – intellect, optimism

Herbs for The Knight of Pentacles

Ashwagandha – calms the mind and lowers cortisol levels. Helps with mental fatigue, stress, and exhaustion.
Bacopa – improved brain function, especially the speed of information processing and reaction time.
Gotu Kola – memory, alertness, and mood; may enhance strength and physical functioning.
Rosemary – Promotes mental clarity, focus, and success, learning new skills, work cooperation.
Yarrow – Provides energetic stamina via steady objective, essential to the steady release of energy

Questions that the Knight of Pentacles asks us

What is required for you to stick to your plan for success, especially when the details begin to feel mundane?
Have you been procrastinating on something, which has led to stagnation, and if so, what do you need to do in order to shift from planning to action?

That is the Knight of Pentacles: calm, thorough assessment of all aspects of the situation before charging blindly forward. Wishing you a week in which you take a pause to breathe and check in with yourself before beginning to sow the seeds of whatever dream you have. 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 Queen Of Pentacles!

THE THREE OF PENTACLES: AMAZING SYNERGY FOUND IN COLLABORATION

July 19, 2023 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Three of Pentacles card shows a stonemason at work in a church, seemingly following a plan held by a figure in an orange cloak who, along with a tonsured monk, stands looking on. We can see the light streaming in from a half-open door. There are three pentacles carved into the stone nearby, and they are black, rather than the usual gold (another name for pentacles is coins, and this suit often deals with material wealth). — The Three of Pentacles (coins)

Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.
henry ford

Overview and Common Meanings of the Three of Pentacles

The Three of Pentacles represents the need for teamwork and collaboration to create something big, to acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of those around you. Since Pentacles represent the physical, material qualities of life and can offer counseling on monetary, work, well-being, and protection issues, it is helpful to reflect on and look for themes of solidity, grounding, and manifestation. Whether you are working with a team of colleagues, friends, or family members, the card reminds us that we are stronger and more effective when we work together.

Some common names in varying decks are Three of Hazards, The Architect, The Craftsman, collaboration, productivity, growth.

Common Meanings

When the Three of Pentacles appears in a tarot reading, it may suggest the need to work with others to achieve a goal or complete a project. This could be in a professional or personal context and may involve a variety of skills and talents. The card often suggests the importance of clear communication, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose among team members. It may also indicate the need to recognize and appreciate the contributions of others, and to celebrate shared successes.

In some interpretations, the Three of Pentacles may also suggest a need to develop one’s own skills and talents to better contribute to a team effort. This could involve seeking out new training or education or taking the time to hone existing skills and expertise. The card may also indicate the importance of working with a mentor or teacher to learn from those who are more experienced or knowledgeable.

In a relationship reading, if looking for love, the Three of Pentacles suggests that a professional connection is likely to be where a potential partner may be met. In an established relationship, we are reminded that we work best and most effectively when we do so as a team.

Overall, the Three of Pentacles is a card that suggests the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect in achieving success.

The Many Faces of The Three of Pentacles

The reversal, or shadow side, of the Three of pentacles can indicate lack of cooperation or recognition, feeling jaded, that the task is tedious, perhaps unrealistic expectations about what was involved, or unwillingness to do the work. This shadow side can indicate that the person asking the question (querent) will need to decide whether to continue to push through those boring parts or if maybe it is time to completely shift directions.

Description

The Three of Pentacles card shows a stonemason at work in a church, seemingly following a plan held by a figure in an orange cloak who, along with a tonsured monk, stands looking on. We can see the light streaming in from a half-open door. There are three pentacles carved into the stone nearby, and they are black, rather than the usual gold (another name for pentacles is coins, and this suit often deals with material wealth).

Themes of The Three of Pentacles

Collaboration
Enterprise
Expansion leading to success
Implementation
Learning
Success
Teamwork

The Number Three

Triad of mother, father, child or nature, society, church, or birth, life, death. It is the number of creative expression and is tied to the cycles and seasons in life, understanding, and growth

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Dark Pentacles – also known as coins, (usually gold) – the rewards not necessarily of monetary value, but rather satisfaction in a job well done.
Half open door – public recognition of good work.
Monk – lifelong vocation and steadfastness
Stonemason standing on workbench – He has achieved mastery of his craft
Pentacles embedded in church – Part of the design and longevity of the structure of the church; the work being created will be lasting

Herbs for The Three of Pentacles

Astragalus – merging ideas with physical reality to bring about change
Hazel – knowledge, wisdom, connection
Laurel – triumph, success, razor sharp focus
Mint family – both protects and repels so strengthens boundaries while enhancing empathic understanding
Rosemary – Promotes mental clarity, focus, and success, learning new skills, work cooperation

Questions that the Three of Pentacles asks us

Am I being a good team member and collaborating with others for the success of the team?
Are there any skills I need to learn to make myself a more valuable member of this team?

So that is the Three of Pentacles, all about teamwork and pushing through to learn what is needed to proceed and thrive. As always please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading. Thank you for reading and please join me next week for the Four of Pentacles!

THE TWO OF PENTACLES: CAREFULLY MANAGE TIME AND PRIORITIES

February 14, 2023 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Two of Pentacles: A young man, clad in varying shades of red, stands on a flat surface, juggling two pentacles which are connected to one another by the infinity symbol, perhaps suggesting that life is a constant juggle. His hat, also red, is tall, emphasizing that he needs to use his head. The sky in the background of the card is clear blue and there is a turbulent sea in the distance with ships navigating the deep swells. The clear blue sky implies serenity, yet the stormy sea implies turmoil, echoing the sentiment of the connection between calm and chaos which the infinity symbol connects. — The Two of Pentacles

Create a ladder of values and priorities in your life, reminding yourself of what really matters to you
Robert Greene

Overview and common meanings of the two of pentacles

The Two of Pentacles represents balance, harmony, and adaptability. It is associated with the element of Earth and the suit of Pentacles, which relates to material wealth, security, and stability. This card can indicate that the person is facing a situation where they must manage multiple tasks or responsibilities, such as work and personal life, finances, or relationships. Alternative names in some varying decks are balance, adaptability, change.

Common Meanings

The 2 of pentacles can suggest that the person is feeling overwhelmed by the demands on their time and energy. They may need to find ways to balance their responsibilities and prioritize their time effectively. The card can also indicate that the person is experiencing a period of change and transition and must learn to be flexible and adaptable in order to succeed. The Two of Pentacles often shows up for freelancers, as cash flow tends to be up and down, and can indicate a need to work to carefully manage their financial situation.

In a work or career reading, the Two of Pentacles can show up to indicate that you are juggling many different things right now, and perhaps expending more energy in crisis management and not enough in the things that will reap long term rewards. It can also indicate that you are keeping options open as far as taking a different direction in your career. Two of Pentacles also shows up to remind us to keep an eye on our budget.

In a love or relationship reading, the Two of Pentacles can show up when you are seeking a new relationship, to remind us to find that balance between our efforts for financial success and matters of the heart. If you are in a committed relationship, the Two of Pentacles can indicate that you are both focused on career and material success, and as a result, are having a hard time finding time together. It’s important to carve out time to make your love a priority, and sometimes that means scheduling time together to nourish your bond.

The Many Faces of the Two of Pentacles

The shadow side – or reversal – of the two of pentacles can indicate the feeling of being spread too thin, as though you have maybe over committed and need to take a pause and find that place of balance and renewal again. It can also indicate the need to watch recklessness in regards to money and physical health.

Description

A young man, clad in varying shades of red, stands on a flat surface, juggling two pentacles which are connected to one another by the infinity symbol, perhaps suggesting that life is a constant juggle. His hat, also red, is tall, emphasizing that he needs to use his head. The sky in the background of the card is clear blue and there is a turbulent sea in the distance with ships navigating the deep swells. The clear blue sky implies serenity, yet the stormy sea implies turmoil, echoing the sentiment of the connection between calm and chaos which the infinity symbol connects.

Themes of The Two of Pentacles

Activity
Balance
Decisions
Priorities
Pursuing harmony
Renewal
Time Management

The Number Two

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. In regard to the earth suit of pentacles, it particularly references finances and physical things, and the need to find balance between it all – balancing your personal finances or finding balance between work and play.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Clear blue sky – calm and peace
Infinity symbol connecting the coins – the constant juggle.
Juggling Pentacles – managing numerous priorities
Red clothing – action and busyness
Tall red hat – the need to use one’s head in finding balance
Turbulent seas with ships – the ups and downs in life

Herbs for The Two of Pentacles

Chamomile – gentle relaxant and nerve restorative for exhaustion
Cinnamon – success, prosperity, clarity
Milky Oat tops – nourishment and calm. Helps overcome feelings of being overwhelmed and out of control when life is throwing transformation at you fast and hard.
Reishi- balance body and mind stress, adapt and find greater purpose in living, build willpower, and, as a result, help build wisdom.
Tulsi – (also known as holy basil) – nurtures the spirit; calming; brings balance to spiritual practice.

Questions that the Two of Pentacles asks us

Have you found balance in the juggling act that is life?
What can you delegate in order to free up time for the truly important priorities?

That is the Two of Pentacles: seeking balance in the constant juggling that is life. Wishing you a week in which your relationships are nourished, your books balanced, and you have a perfect combination of rest and activity. As always, please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out to schedule a reading. Thank you for reading and please join me next for the Three of Pentacles!

THE ACE OF PENTACLES: WONDERFUL NEW OPPORTUNITIES

February 7, 2023 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Ace of Pentacles: In the middle of a clear blue sky, a large hand surrounded by rays of light emerges from a puffy cloud. Cradled in the palm of the hand is a large coin, or disk, bearing a five-pointed star. There is a straight path through what appears to be a garden of white lilies leading to a tall hedge of roses in which an arched opening is cut. In the distance, though the arch, we see a mountain peak. — Ace of Pentacles

Honor your desire for a new life. Say yes to the small inklings of interest and curiosity that present themselves each day
Lynn A. Robinson

Overview and Common Meanings of The Ace of Pentacles

The Tarot card the Ace of Pentacles represents abundance, prosperity, and new opportunities. It suggests that new financial ventures, career opportunities, and material gain are on the horizon. This card is often seen as a symbol of success and a promise of good things to come. The coin represents the seed of what we are planting and is shown in the hand as a metaphor of manifestation. Everything is created twice: first in mind and then in time.

Alternative names in some varying decks are ace of crystals, coins, earth, hazards, or shields.

Common Meanings

The Ace of Pentacles is associated with the element of Earth, and so symbolizes stability, security, and grounding. When the Ace of Pentacles shows up, it is often a sign that one is about to embark on a new and prosperous phase of life that will include financial stability and success. This is a time when money could be coming to you easily, as an inheritance or windfall, or that you are lucky in winnings.

In a financial or career related reading, the Ace of Pentacles is generally a positive sign, signaling new opportunities, promotions, greater wealth, and overall satisfaction in the material realm.

In a reading in which love is the focus, the Ace of Pentacles will indicate a new prospect on the horizon, perhaps someone whom you meet through work. If you are already in a committed relationship, there is the possibility of a new business partnership with your love, or even just a commingling of finances such as purchasing property together.

The Many Faces of The Ace of Pentacles

The shadow side – or reversal – of the Ace of Pentacles can show up as a warning of lack of foresight, of being too fixated on a particular materialistic outcome that you are missing the rest of the picture and as a sign of greed or that your focus is in the wrong place. Ace of Pentacles in Shadow can indicate that more planning is needed for a venture that has sparked you.

Description of the card

In the middle of a clear blue sky, a large hand surrounded by rays of light emerges from a puffy cloud. Cradled in the palm of the hand is a large coin, or disk, bearing a five-pointed star. There is a straight path through what appears to be a garden of white lilies leading to a tall hedge of roses in which an arched opening is cut. In the distance, though the arch, we see a mountain peak.

Themes of The Ace of pentacles

Ambitions
Beginnings
Business
Financial gift/inheritance/windfall
Foundation
Manifestation
Money
New Venture
Planting a seed
Property
Prosperity
Stability
Success

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 Pentacles, you are saying yes to new beginnings, particularly around money, material success, physical health and manifestation of your goal. The earthy energy of pentacles is all about successful combining of ideas with the careful insight of planning and work. 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

Right Hand – hand of giving.
Coin or disk with pentagram – the seeds of success
White lilies – symbols of purity
Rose hedge – protection and abundance
Clear view of distant mountains – clear path to reach the pinnacle with ease.
Cloud – hand emerging symbolic of the clouds parting and the path to success being illuminated.

Herbs for The Ace of Pentacles

Alfalfa – Luck, prosperity, and overall good fortune
Devil’s Shoestring – protection, fortune, and occupation, attract wealth
Ginger – prosperity and good fortune
Morning Glory – money, love, success, and happiness.
Patchouli – Calming, attracts good luck and prosperity.

Questions that the Ace of Pentacles asks us

What new opportunities are showing up in your life and are you noticing and taking advantage of them?
Have you thoroughly vetted this new goal upon which you are embarking, and if not, what do you need to close that gap and bring this into reality?

That is the Ace of Pentacles: new and exciting opportunities for abundance. Wishing you a week in which you see and take advantage of those opportunities with ease. Thank you for reading and, as always, please reach out with questions, comments, or to schedule a reading. Join me next week for the 2 of Pentacles!

THE QUEEN OF CUPS: POWERFUL INTUITIVE BOUNDARIES

January 17, 2023 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

A queen, wearing a crown, sits on a throne adorned with cherubim that is situated on the shore of a body of water. She holds in her hands an ornate, covered chalice adorned with angels with outspread wings and topped by a cross. Her robes are blue and white and at her feet are round pebbles that appear to have washed up from the body of water. Her feet are near the placid water, but they do not touch it. The sky is clear blue with no clouds. — The Queen of Cups

I believe in intuitions and inspirations…I sometimes FEEL that I am right. I do not KNOW that I am.
Albert Einstein

Overview and common meanings of The Queen of Cups

When the Queen of Cups shows up in a tarot reading it is often indicative of an Intuitive woman with nurturing energy. It can represent the querent or it can be representative of another person who fills that role. In any event it is a person who is in tune with her intuitive nature without letting it overwhelm her day-to-day life. Alternate names in varying decks are peace, compassion, mother of water, matriarch.

Common Meanings

An almost exclusively positive card, The Queen of Cups is the ideal female partner who is unafraid of intimacy while still retaining healthy autonomy and boundaries. This is a person who is artistic and sensitive and puts love and happiness at the forefront. The card also emphasizes the importance of emotional integrity. Along with the loving generosity of spirit that is indicated with the queen of cups, there is a danger of giving so much that one’s cup becomes empty. This is where healthy boundaries come into play. I always liken it to how they say “put your oxygen mask on first before helping others” when you are flying.

In a career or money related reading, the Queen of Cups can indicate a desire to get involved in work that is meaningful, impactful and allows expression of artistic and creative gifts. Money-wise the Queen of Cups indicates good financial balance while warning to be careful of emotional spending.

If the reading is related to romance, relationships, and love, the Queen of Cups is a personality that is warm, sensual, and empathetic. She will bring a full heart to a true love relationship. Occasionally her presence could indicate the presence of another female outside of the relationship, or even a harmonious third person in the relationship.

The Many Faces of The Queen of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal – of the Queen of Cups can indicate issues with finances or emotions – possibly jealousy, or infidelity. It can show up as a sign of not being in touch with your emotions or being afraid to open and be vulnerable. Can be indicative of an “energy vampire” that doesn’t contribute emotionally or financially. Indicative of emotional warfare and blackmail.

Description

A queen, wearing a crown, sits on a throne adorned with cherubim that is situated on the shore of a body of water. She holds in her hands an ornate, covered chalice adorned with angels with outspread wings and topped by a cross. Her robes are blue and white and at her feet are round pebbles that appear to have washed up from the body of water. Her feet are near the placid water, but they do not touch it. The sky is clear blue with no clouds.

Themes of The Queen of Cups

Artistic
Compassionate
Emotional intelligence
Empathy
Intuition
Love
Nurturing Mother or Mentor
Spiritual connection

Court Cards – Queens

Queens are representative of nurturing, matriarchal energy and can be a guide or a mentor. Oftentimes we see queens as people already in your life or about to come into your life. In the case of the suit of Cups, the Queen has to do with generosity of spirit and strong intuition as well as artistic and creativity, emotions, and love.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Angels – devotion and spirituality
Blue sky – calm and peace
Closed chalice – womb, subconscious
Cherub holding fish – prosperity
Cherubim – maternal instinct and inner child
Feet near, but not in water – attuned to emotions without being overtaken by them
Pebbles – insight that we gain in life as we travel our journey
Water – emotions

Herbs for The Queen of Cups

Hazel- knowledge, wisdom, connection
Hawthorn – balance of protection (boundaries) and open heartedness
Mint family – both protects and repels so strengthens boundaries while enhancing empathic understanding
Rue – protects from energy vampires/psychic attacks and allows for empathic listening
Yarrow – helps with to strengthen emotional boundaries, to distinguish between what is and isn’t yours

Questions that the Queen of Cups asks us

How well have your emotions been serving you lately?
How can you maintain healthy boundaries while leaning into the openhearted compassion of the Queen of Cups?

That is the Queen of Cups; nurturing mother energy balanced with healthy boundaries. Wishing you a week in which you maintain those boundaries with love and compassion. Please join me next week to round out the suit of Cups with the King of Cups!

TAROT’S EIGHT OF CUPS: POWERFUL KNOWLEDGE OF WHEN TO WALK AWAY

August 23, 2022 / Tara Mallane / 0 Comments

The Eight of Cups
A figure wearing a red cloak and boots, and carrying a staff, walks up a rocky path, away from the edge of a river. On the opposite side of the river, in the foreground of the card are eight cups, positioned in such a manner that it seems that one is missing. In the distance are rocky outcroppings rising out of a river or waterway. It is night; there is a blue sky and a sun within a moon overlooking the scene — The Eight of Cups

Knowing when to walk away, is wisdom. Being able to is courage. Walking away with grace, and your head held high, is dignity.
Ritu Ghatourey

Overview and common meanings of the eight of cups

The Eight of Cups can indicate a sense of restiveness, and like something is missing. Everything appears great on the outside, but your intuition is bothering you. The Eight of Cups traditionally indicates leaving a situation, place, or relationship that no longer fulfills you. This is usually a decision made after much careful consideration, and when done, you may find that you had already left the situation emotionally and that there is less strife and drama about the leave-taking than you originally feared. Some Other names for the Eight of Cups in varying decks are Quest, renewal, stagnation, indolence.

Common Meanings

In a career or financial reading, the Eight of Cups shows up at a time when you are feeling ready to leave a job that is no longer fulfilling your needs. Perhaps it is one you have outgrown, and it is time for you to stretch your wings and reach for something more. Maybe it is time to liquidate that struggling business or those investments that aren’t performing well.

In a relationship or love reading, the Eight of Cups can indicate that it is a good time to take a break from seeking a relationship while you spend some time determining what you really want. If you are in a long-term relationship, sometimes the Eight of Cups can show up at a time when you are considering leaving the relationship and making a change. It’s always important to check in with yourself and determine what it is that you truly want and need.

The Many Faces of The Eight of Cups

The shadow side – or reversal – of the Eight of Cups can indicate a fear of abandonment, or an actual abandonment. Often, there is an aspect of clinging to a situation past the time when it is healthy to do so. There is the aspect of giving the situation one more try. You could be staying because it is the logical thing to do, or out of some sense of duty or obligation, but in this instance, it is more important to tap into your intuition and heed your inner guidance. Just because things look perfect on the outside, it doesn’t mean that it is perfect for you.

Description

A figure wearing a red cloak and boots, and carrying a staff, walks up a rocky path, away from the edge of a river. On the opposite side of the river, in the foreground of the card are eight cups, positioned in such a manner that it seems that one is missing. In the distance are rocky outcroppings rising out of a river or waterway. It is night; there is a blue sky and a sun within a moon overlooking the scene.

Themes of The Eight of Cups

Abandonment
Avoidance
Boredom
Departure
Disappointment Letting go
Escapism
Fear
Feeling stuck
Releasing old patterns or beliefs that no longer fit who you are
Walking away
Regretting choices made
Restlessness
Soul searching
Spiritual journey

The Number 8

Fulfillment, the combination of two fours which represent stability. Stability and renewal, inner strength and wisdom and healthy balanced ego. When combined with Cups, it can indicate boredom and dissatisfaction.

Elements of the Card and Associated Symbolism

Sun – the mind
Moon – Insight and Desire
Staff – inner guidance
Red cloak – competence to manifest objective
Rocky outcropping or mountain – trials and new experiences

Herbs for The Eight of Cups

Black Cohosh – strength and lucidity when leaving harmful situation; particularly useful when you have adopted negativity directed towards you.
Kava – eases tension, calms the mind, and supports healthy stress response
Mimosa – Sadness, loss, heartache, grief. Can help when mourning the things you are letting go from your life.
Pine – rebirth, wisdom; useful when walking away and “rebirthing” into a new reality
St John’s Wort – used for depression and anxiety; can help bring the light back to your life.

Questions that the Eight of Cups asks us

While it may appear that you have everything you want in life, do you truly have everything that you need?
Is this one of those times in your life that you need to walk away from something, and towards something else, no matter what others around you may think of your decisions?

That is the Eight of Cups. Wishing you a week in of discernment on whether it is time to walk away from a situation that you have outgrown. Thank you for reading and please leave comments, ask questions, or reach out for a reading.

Join me next week for the Nine of Cups!

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

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.