This thread started, and is being discussed in the Bridge Way, but I need to keep it together in here. These are my Tarot notes. They are from my notebooks, which were composed from many sources. These notes form the basis of a manuscript, and do not resemble anything close to the finished article, which would involve a complete re-write.
That re-write will not happen unless a new tarot deck is first created. That would require someone to create an actual deck of cards to my instruction. That someone may be me, one day, but this document has sat untouched for more than a decade and it is not on my to-do list.
Waite produced his cards with deliberate blinds, to protect the 'secret' teachings. Crowley's Thoth tarot is a true representation of the Golden Dawn's work with the cards.
For those curious about 'real' Tarot,or wanting to know more about the Tarot as a pictorial representation of all esoteric religions.. then the following text, if a little disjointed, is a good place to start.
For no-nabs-misty tarot (TM) you need a little back ground:
Tarot Wheel.
Want to learn the tarot? Print this wheel and look at all the correspondences for each of the minor arcana. Keep these correspondences in mind during the reading .
The Astrological correspondences of the Tarot cards
The Tarot Wheel
The first ring shows whether the astrological sign is positive or negative in astrological terminology.
The second ring shows the symbols of the astrological signs of the zodiac (shown in the ninth ring).
The third ring comprises the so called triplicities of astrology, the Elements.
The fourth ring shows the so called quadruplicities of astrology: Mutable, Fixed and Cardinal.
The fifth ring shows the Tarot suits that represent the elements shown in the third ring.
The sixth ring shows the number of the Tarot card that relates the decans (10° intervals) of the zodiac.
The seventh ring shows which planet is within the decans.
The eighth ring shows the calendar dates of the 36 zodiacal decans, which are also the dates representing the individual tarot cards and also one of the personal cards of an individual, based on their date of birth.
The ninth ring shows the astrological sign of the cards.
The tenth ring shows the planet that rules each of the astrological signs of the zodiac.
The eleventh ring shows the planet that is exalted in that zodiacal sign, i.e. a planet which has a stronger influence than usual because it shares certain characteristics with the astrological sign.
The twelfth ring shows which Knight, Queen or Prince (using Crowley terminology) rules which of the minor arcana.
The thirteenth and outermost ring shows which quarter of the zodiac is ruled by each of the Princesses in tandem with the Aces. These are referred to as Quadrants in astrology.
The 1st ring: Positive and negative signs.
Positive is used along with terms such as masculine, extrovert and active. Negative is used along with the terms female, introvert and receptive. The terms yin (female) and yang (masculine) could be applied also. In astrological writings positive is usually expressed as self-assertive and negative as self-repressive.
The 3rd ring: The triplicities
The triplicities are the four elements. Fire is energetic and assertive. Earth is practical and restrained. Air is communicative and mentally active. Water is emotional and intuitive.
The 4th ring: The quadruplicities
There are 3 quadruplicities: Mutable, Fixed and Cardinal. Mutable signs are variable and adaptable. Fixed signs are intense and steadfast and cardinal signs are enterprising and indicate motion. These are used in conjunction with the elemental signs. So for example the cardinal signs show enterprise. Aries (Fire) will be energetically and assertively enterprising. Cancer (Water) will be emotionally and intuitively enterprising. Libra (Air) will be mentally and communicatively enterprising and Capricorn (Earth) will be calculating and will be enterprising without taking risks.
Crowley describes the quadruplicities as follows: “Cardinal represents the first onrush of that element, they burst into their elements ´Here I am´. Fixed signs define and concentrate the element `This is what I am`. Mutable signs are more subtle, they do not express the energy of the cardinal, or the stability of the fixed, but they are not weak, just sensitive and willing to give of themselves. They are flexible and can adapt the element to the adventures of an ever changing universe”.
The 5th and 6th rings show the minor arcana, or pip cards. It can be seen that the Twos, Threes and Fours are associated with the cardinal signs, the Fives, Sixes and Sevens with the Fixed signs and the Eights, Nines and Tens with the Mutable signs.
The 7th ring: The Planets of the decans.
A fuller description the planets is given in the description of the cards themselves. As a general overview the following descriptors are often used in astrological discussions about the influence of the planets:
The Sun –Who you are, self integration, enhancing whatever energy is already present, life energy.
The Moon – Your emotions, rhythms, instinctive response to life. The early years of life, relationship to your mother, mood swings, moon cycles.
Mercury – How you communicate, communications in general, mental ability, expressiveness, nervous reaction, adaptability. The messenger of Jupiter, the eternal teenager, fast and furious. Talkers, traders and intellectuals. Mercury brings money through work and trade.
Venus – How you love, unity, quality and intensity of the feelings and affections, sense of personal values, ability to form intimate relationships.
Mars – How you act, activity in general, shows strength and quality of energetic, passionate and emotional expression. Forceful and practical with sexual inclination.
Jupiter – How you expand and grow, expansion in general, joy, ability to seize opportunities for expansion through growth, materially and understanding, luck. The God of gods, the supreme power, kind, giving and generous though very naïve. Jupiter brings money through gifts (like Ganesh).
Saturn – How you learn, wisdom and frustration in the sense that it is often through your frustrations that you learn in life. Formative, ability for self-discipline, sense of personal inadequacy and limitation, quality of self-consciousness, getting old. Can be slow, heavy, obstinate and obscure. Also relates to structure, including your bone structure.
The planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto revolve every 7, 14 and 21 years, respectively, so they effect whole generations and are probably best ignored in astrological terms. Uranus is often associated with breaking free, freedom and originality of expression and unconventional experiences; Neptune with spirituality, mystical and religious ideals and peculiar or chaotic development; Pluto with death, transformations, explosive endings and beginnings to distinct phases of life developments. Pluto is the brother of Jupiter and rules over Hell.
The 9th ring: The Astrological Signs.
This is a brief introduction to a very large subject.
Aries. Ruled by Mars, Positive, Cardinal Fire.
Self expressive, energetic, undomesticated and assertive. Spontaneous, objective, urgent, impulsive, restless, impatient, frank and direct. Quick thinking and quick witted but not reflective or philosophical. Passionate but not tactful, strong sexual feelings and demands. Can be selfish, argumentative, quick tempered, aggressive and foolhardy. They like to protect themselves. They can suffer from a lack of empathy, ‘Me’ is important to them, they know who they are and are not self-reflective, though equally they do not suffer from self deception.
Taurus. Ruled by Venus, Negative, Fixed Earth.
Restrained, domesticated, with boundaries, self-repressive, reliable, passive, intense, practical, steadfast, productive and enduring. Unflinching in attack. Likes comfort, good food, art, beauty and harmony. Mentally stable, methodical, deliberate, constructive but unoriginal and can be boring. Very affectionate, sensual, instinctively aware of the power of their bodies sexually. Possessive, even over-possessive, self-indulgent, self-centred and grasping. They seek security.
Gemini. Ruled by Mercury. Positive, Mutable Air.
Communicative, self-expressive, mentally active, interested in the universe around them, adaptable, variable, spontaneous, restless, inquisitive, likes change. Inconsistent, witty, chatty, never dull. Intelligent, light hearted in love, fickle, coolly affectionate, flirtatious, can be superficial, two faced, inconsistent and cunning. They need to adjust to their environment.
Cancer. Ruled by the Moon. Negative, Cardinal Water.
Emotional, intuitive, self-repressing, passive and enterprising. Always in touch with their roots, their past and their relationships with their mother. Defensive urge to protect and nourish. Hard outer but soft inner, highly sensitive and easily hurt inside but still hold an impression of external toughness. Resourceful, clannish, patriotic, sympathetic, imaginative, sentimental and moody. Shrewd with a good memory. Artistic, impressionable to psychic influences, romantic, tender, protective and touchy. Can be too moody, prone to self-pity, timid, untidy, unstable and nationalistic.
Leo. Ruled by the Sun. Positive, Fixed Fire.
Egotistical, creative, self-expressive, energetic, impressive, authority figure; a natural leader who can inspire others to create. Fixed Fire gives self control but can be dominating and overbearing. Warm hearted, broad minded, good organizer. Self-assured, intellectually inclined and able to look at broad patterns. A powerful and sincere lover. Can be pompous, bombastic, selfish, patronizing and with an urge for power.
Virgo. Ruled by Mercury. Negative, Mutable Earth
The only female symbol in the zodiac. Self-repressive, always helping others, passive, restrained, practical, adaptable and variable. Analytical, efficient perfectionist seeking efficiency. Critical, reserved, intelligent, shrewd, discerning, modest, conventional lover. Can be too critical, too modest and a worrier, always looking for compromise they often lose track of who they are. Can be a hypochondriac.
Libra. Ruled by Venus. Positive, Cardinal Air.
Self-expressive, loving, communicative, mentally active, harmonious, charming, intelligent, kind, diplomatic and idealistic. Can be lazy and easily influenced by others. Romantic and sentimental, never critical. Can be too easy going. Changeable, can lack confidence. Has a sense of social duty. Likes art and beauty.
Scorpio. Ruled by Pluto and Mars. Negative, Fixed Water.
Self-repressive, passive, emotional, intuitive, intense and steadfast. They are always aware of their own mortality and the nature of death. Penetrating attitude, intenseness, urge to identify with one’s source. Intensity of expression, thinking and feeling. Strong will, penetrating eyes, power and passion of conviction. Subtle, secretive and purposeful can be brutal and aggressive. Strong reasoning power, analytical and keenly perceptive. Passionate, jealous lover with strong sexual feelings. Can be brooding, jealous, cold, distant, destructive, stubborn, cynical, secretive and sometimes deliberately cruel. Keen to pursue the exotic and the mysteries of life and to see the dark side.
Sagittarius. Ruled by Jupiter. Positive, Mutable Fire.
Self-expressive, spiritual, spiritualists, energetic, assertive, adaptable, variable, spontaneous, attitude of freedom and an urge to explore their environment. Far reaching, free ranging, restless and idealistic. Seeks freedom and space. Optimistic, sincere, frank, versatile, mentally active, philosophical, foresighted, religious and a tendency to moralise. Open minded, deep thinking, good judgement and outspoken. Ardent, conventional lover who must feel free. Can be an extremist, extravagant, boastful, inconsiderate, a playboy type.
Capricorn. Ruled by Saturn. Negative, Cardinal Earth.
Self-repressive, passive, restrained but enterprising and practical. A loner or aesthetic. Patient, persevering, cautious and resourceful. Capable of bearing hardship and frustration. Disciplined, self contained, responsible and sensible. Prudent, cool and calculating. Cool in love, cautious, modest and faithful but can be selfish, narrow minded, too severe and exacting. Need for self-sufficiency. Worriers.
Aquarius, Ruled by Saturn and Uranus. Positive, Fixed Air.
Self-expressive, mentally active, philosophical, intense, steadfast, spontaneous. Detached from the world with unconventional but progressive ideas. Strong ideals, humanitarian, intelligent, reformist ideas, imaginative, broad-minded, inventive. Wants to be faithful in love but is independent and dispassionate. Can be perverse, eccentric, cranky, tactless, rude, detached, erratic and have no personal integrity.
Pisces. Ruled by Jupiter and Neptune. Negative, Mutable Water.
Self-repressive, passive, emotional, intuitive, adaptable, variable. Nebulous attitude expressing impressionableness. They are half way between this world and the next. Enjoying life’s mysteries and the frontiers between worlds. Emotionally sensitive, compassionate, sympathetic and easy going. Psychic mediums. Impressionable, receptive, lovable and submissive but disillusioned by the cold reality of a family. Can be impractical, over-emotional, careless, indecisive, secretive, confused, gullible, temperamental and dependent on others. Tries to transcend the mundane. Often poets, musicians and artists.
The eleventh ring shows the planet that is exalted in that zodiacal sign, i.e. a planet which has a stronger influence than usual because it shares certain characteristics with the astrological sign.
The 12th ring shows which Kings, Queens and Princes rule which section of the zodiac (each ruling 3 pip cards). The Knights rule the last decan of the fixed signs and the first two decans of the mutable signs. The Queens rule the last decan of the mutable signs and the first two decans of the cardinal signs and the Princes rule the last decan of the cardinal signs and the first two decans of the fixed signs
The 13th ring shows the Ace of Earth, with the Princess of Earth as its throne in Quadrant I Aries, Taurus and Gemini). The Ace of Wands, on the throne of the Princess of Wands, sits in Quadrant II (Cancer, Leo and Virgo), The Ace of Cups on the throne of the Princess of Cups are in Quadrant III (Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius) and the Ace of Swords on the throne of the Princess of Swords are in Quadrant IV (Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces).
The Tree of Life
The Tree of Life comprises 10 circles or Sephiroth, [Sephira (singular) means “number”], connected by 22 paths, as shown, below.
There are actually 4 trees, on top of one another (although to view them as circular would be better).
The top tree is named Atziluth (Wands), followed by Briah (Cups), Yetzirah (Swords) and Assiah (Pentangles).
All 10 sephiroth are but aspects of the top sephira (Kether), which represents the totality of existence.
The 22 paths connecting the sephiroth are each characterized by one of the 22 Major Arcana, and each are ascribed one of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.
Note: this is from Crowley's Book of Thoth. I think he was wrong to change The Star and The Emperor, they need to be swapped over on the above tree.
The first sephira is Kether, or the crown, the highest sephira. It represents the absolute and is very strong. It is ruled by Pluto and is home to the Aces, which define the suit in principle.
The second sephira is Chokmah, which represents Wisdom. It is the sphere of the zodiac and home to the All-father, the Kings and the Twos. It represents the supreme male concept and is very strong. It is ruled by Neptune.
The third sephira is Binah, which represents Understanding. It is the sphere of Saturn and home to the Great Mother, Queens and Threes. It represents the supreme female concept and is very strong. It is ruled by Saturn.
The concept of the Abyss will be described later. In simple terms the 3 spheres above the Abyss are conceptual and beyond the understanding of 'normal' intellect. The spheres below the Abyss are manifest and not only conceptual. i.e. they exist in a way which is understandable by 'normal' intellectual processes.
The fourth sephira is Chesed, which represents Mercy. It is the sphere of Jupiter. It is the highest sephira below the abyss and is therefore the highest manifestation of the universe in actuality. It is the rule of law and it is very strong. It is ruled by Jupiter and home of the Fours which define the suits in actuality.
The fifth sephira is Geburah, which represents Strength. It is the sphere of Mars and indicates motion, stress and storm. It is strong but unbalanced. Home of the Fives, it is ruled by Mars.
The sixth sephira is Tiphareth, which represents Beauty. It is the sphere of Sol. It is a direct reflection and first balanced manifestation of the Kether (Aces) and so it is strong and noble: energy in completely balanced manifestation. It is home to the Princes and Sixes and is ruled by the Sun.
The seventh sephira is Netzach, which represents Victory. It is the sphere of Venus. It is unbalanced, difficult and weak, indicating a masculine female. Illusion is present. It is home to the Sevens and is ruled by Venus.
The eighth sephira is Hod, which represents Splendour. It is the sphere of Mercury. It is unbalanced, difficult and weak, indicating an effeminate male. Illusion is present. It is home to the Eights and is ruled by Mercury. The original energy of the suit is beginning to run out this far down the Tree and planetary and zodiacal influences become more important.
The ninth sephira is Yesod, which represents the Foundation. Its is the sphere of Luna. It is the seat of the greatest crystallization of energy and is stable and supportive (though not on Yetzirah – Swords). It is home to the Nines and is ruled by the Moon.
The tenth sephira is Malkuth, which represents the Kingdom. It is the sphere of Earth. It represents the end and loss of all energy and is a disaster as the suits are about to lose their identity, though not in Assiah – Disks; the very bottom has nowhere to go except the very top. It is the material world and is home to the Princesses and Tens. It is ruled by the Earth.
Wands
The Ace of Wands
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
The Aces represent the elements in their pure form, representing the roots, or pure essence. All the other minor arcana are but facets of the Ace. Crowley describes the Aces as ‘seeds’ of the element. There would be no creation if the elements remained in their pure form (or as seeds), for creation to occur the base elements must be combined, or to continue the metaphor, the seeds must germinate and grow.
In divinatory terms Aces describe the basic quality of the suit (element) and the root of creation. They represent opportunity.
The Waite card shows the club as living and bearing leaves, a phallic reference. The Wand has 10 leaves, suggesting the 10 Sephiroth on the Tree of Life
This card represents power, ego, will power, strength, creation, invention, excitement, sexual desire and eagerness to begin new projects. It can be an overwhelming energy and could lead to failure and chaos.
Astrological Correspondence
Rules one quarter of the skies, along with the Princess of Wands, zodiacal signs Cancer, Leo and Virgo, and the land masses of Asia.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Root of the Powers of Fire. Resides in Kether on the Tree of Atziluth
Kether - the Absolute – Sphere of Pluto, very strong. - In Kether there is no form but only pure being, never in actual manifestation. It is a higher dimension, a different order of being.
In Kether there is no division, no opposites, it is the One and existed before there was any reflection of itself. It is. utterly inert, pure being without activity; activity begins in Chokmah.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
This card represents the primary outpouring energy of the universe. It is the source of All.
The colour of Kether in the world of Atziluth is ‘brilliance.’
Crowley's card has fiery Yods into the shape of the Tree of Life, he has designed a glyph of the power of Fire.The essence of the element of Fire in all its inception.
This card symbolizes force, strength, rush, vigour and energy. It implies natural rather than invoked strength.
2 of Wands
The twos show union, connection, duality, dialogue, friction and opposites.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows a finely dressed man standing on castle ramparts, between two Wands, holding a globe of the Earth in his right hand. Is he reminiscing of past days? reflecting on the travels and adventures that brought his wealth? Or surveying his domain, his kingdom? (a reference to the Golden Dawn meaning of the card: Dominion).
This card can suggest a loss of satisfaction after the battle is won and looking beyond what has been achieved. It could shows someone who is leaving security and success behind in order to step into the unknown.
Astrological Correspondence
Mars in Aries (Mar 21 – 30). Impulsive, energetic, passionate and self-willed, or quick tempered, aggressive, violent and reckless.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Dominion. Resides in Chokmah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Chokmah - Wisdom – Sphere of Neptune - very strong - the supreme male concept. If we conceive of the Primordial Point which is Kether as being extended into the line which is Chokmah, we have an adequate symbolic representation. This energy, in a straight line is essentially dynamic. It is, in fact, the primary dynamism, It is the Great Stimulator of the Universe. It is from Chokmah that Binah, the Third Sephirah, receives its influx of energy. The archetypal positive, primordial Maleness.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
In the Atziluthic realm, the fiery male force that is Mars, is on its own ground, and happy to be there. Fiery Mars rules fiery Aries, a tremendous force. Chokmah is the first onrush of male energy. The energies are balanced, the 2 wands are in harmony with Atziluth, making this a powerful card of stable strength and dominion.
Soft blue is the colour of Chokmah in Atziluth
Crowley card is called “Dominion”, the GD name
This card represents will in its most exalted form and Crowley states 'For pure will, unassuaged of purpose, delivered from the lust of result, is every way perfect'. There are references here to both yogic and Buddhist philosophies, which state that an action devoid of egotism is free from the rules of Karma.
The Buddhist philosophy is also shown in the symbology of this card which shows two Tibetan Dorjes crossed with flames emanating from the centre. The six flames are representative of the Sun's energy (reference to the sixth Sephiroth on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth, which is ruled by the sun) and represent the creative will.
This card represents Mars in Aries and is also ruled by Mars, a powerful 'masculine' blend further fuelled and powered by the sun, which is exalted. All this take place in the second Sephirah of the Fire Tree of Life, which is supremely masculine.
Influence over others, authority, power, dominion, strength, harmony of rule and of justice. Also Boldness, courage, fierceness, generosity and ambition.
3 of Wands
The Threes are the full expression of the suit (element) and represent a strong, secure and stable situation.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows a finely dressed man standing between three Wands looking out to sea at passing ships. Perhaps the ships belong to the man? This card shows material success, strength and a solid basis. Also, established force, pride and arrogance.
Astrological Correspondence
Sun in Aries (Mar 31 – Apr 10). Ruled by Mars, Sun exalted. Assertive, enterprising and bold or combative, forceful and selfish. Typical Arians.
The Sun into Aries heralds the spring. The Sun illuminates Aries, the sign of Cardinal Fire, ruled by Mars. The result is great strength in individual expression, but also egotism which may manifest as pride, arrogance and conceit
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Established Strength. Resides in Binah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Binah - Understanding – Sphere of Saturn - very strong, the supreme female concept. the great mother principle. Binah represents the female potency of the universe, as Chokmah represents the male, they are Positive and Negative; Force and Form. Each heads its Pillar, Chokmah at the head of the Pillar of Mercy, and Binah at the head of the Pillar of Severity. Chokmah without Binah, and Binah without Chokmah, are incomprehensible, for the pair are the functional unit, and not either of them function separately.
This is the archetypal womb through which life comes into manifestation. Binah receives its energy from Chokmah but the embodied spirit must also die, and she is also death to the same dynamic energy.
The full materialization of energy only occurs at Malkuth, the material universe.
Atziluth, the archetypal world, divine thought, corresponds to the spiritual level, Wands in Tarot
The primeval energy produced by the great masculine force (‘The Will’) has been transferred to the Mother, who conceives and gives birth. Mother takes the masculine force and manifests it into form.
Crimson is the colour of Binah in Atziluth, a harmony of the great feminine principle with the masculine element of fire at this level.
Crowley’s card, “Virtue”, shows three crossed Wands - balance of Chokmah and Binah which has given forth Tiphareth (the Queen has given birth to the Prince, and growth begins), shown by Crowley as the blossoming of the Lotus.
The sun is in Aries where it is also exalted, and although Mars rules his energy and will is now tempered by the Great Mother in the third Sephirah, Binah, which is the supreme female concept. This is a powerful and balanced blend, a 'virtuous' mix.
Pride, arrogance, self-assertion, established force, strength, realization of hope, completion of labour, success after a struggle, pride, nobility.
4 of Wands
The Fours indicate structure, solidity, inflexibility and order. They define the suit (element) in actuality.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite has 4 Wands arranged as an open structure before a castle. In the background people are celebrating or dancing. This card represents harmony, a marriage, solidity, optimism, a love of freedom. A strong card, even ill dignified it has the same meaning.
Astrological Correspondence
Venus in Aries. (Apr 11 – 20). Ruled by Mars, Sun exalted . Ardent, demonstrative, persuasive, popular or erotic, self-seeking and self-centred. They think only of themselves and their own feelings, so are not empathic. Often single people who fall quickly in and out of love. a brief romance, or warm but fleeting feelings
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Perfected Work. Resides in Chesed on the Tree of Atziluth.
Chesed – Mercy - The Sphere of Jupiter - very strong. The rule of law, materialization. the beginning of manifested form - Actual manifestation, as our finite minds can conceive it, The loving father, the protector and preserver he continues the work of Chokmah, organising and preserving that which the All-Father has begotten. Chesed builds what Geburah destroys.
Chesed represents the formulation of the archetypal idea, the concretion of the abstract. When the abstract principle that forms the root of some new activity is formulating in our minds, we are operating in the sphere of Chesed.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Venus is activated by the Mars energies of Aries. It is perfection, a harmony of opposites, male-female and love-war.
Deep violet is the colour of Chesed in Atziluth.
Crowley’s “Completion” is a crossing of four wands, each of which carries the head of the ram (Aries) and the dove (Venus).
This is the first card below the abyss and here will power is first manifested. Manifested will is built into solid order, Law, governments etc. This card is also well balanced, Venus is now in Aries and ruled by Mars, this is a strong male-female relationship, fuelled further by the sun. This card is a lesser version of the Wheel of Fortune, or Fortune as Crowley names it.
Settlement, arrangement, completion, subtlety and cleverness. Perfection or completion of a thing built up with trouble and labour. Rest after labour. One cannot establish ones work without tact and gentleness.
5 of Wands
The Fives are usually bad news in a reading, they show loss, struggle, conflict, sorrow, challenges, crises and painful realities. Often they indicate an outside influence.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows Five youths fighting with staffs (Wands). This card shows an ongoing conflict, but not a serious one, these youths are training or competing rather than engaging in a serious fight. In divinatory terms this card heralds conflict, competitive fighting, difficulty or loss. It can indicate a more serious battle.
Astrological Correspondence
Saturn in Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 1). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Authoritative, self-assured, responsible or resentful of limitations. Frustrated by authority and may have problems with their fathers.
The powerful effects of Saturn in Leo, a fire sign, are quarrelling, agitation and strife. This card should be compared with the 5 Swords, the Lord of Defeat.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Strife. Resides in Geburah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Geburah – Strength, Severity – Sphere of Mars - strong but unbalanced. Motion, storm and stress Martial energy and destruction, not evil but a necessary purification – Geburah is the warrior king, armed with the sword of righteousness, going to war to protect his people. He is a slayer of dragons.
Geburah is the Destroyer, the Lord of Fear and Severity, a force necessary to balance Chesed, the Lord of Love, and Netzach, the Lady of Beauty.
Binah perpetually binds force into form; Geburah perpetually breaks up and destroys all forms.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Orange is the colour Geburah in Atziluth.
Crowley calls this a "volcanic energy."His card, Strife, shows the Golden Down wand of a Chief Adept crossed by the Phoenix Wand of the Adeptus Major of Geburah and by the Lotus Wand of the Adeptus Minor of Tiphareth. This card symbolizes the nature of the energies.
Leo is the strongest and most balanced of the fire signs and it is ruled by the sun. But Saturn is dull and heavy and the fifth Sephirah is strong but unbalanced so the mix is one of trouble and strife.
Quarrelling and fighting. Violent strife and boldness, cruelty, violence, lust and desire.
6 of Wands
The Sixes are a recovery after the stress of the Fives. They indicate communication, success, relationships and sharing.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows a man on horseback riding through a victory parade or celebration. Success with will power results in getting what you want, or achieving your goals or ambitions. This card signifies victory, optimism and good news.
Astrological Correspondence
Jupiter in Leo (Aug 2 – Aug 11). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Generous, big-hearted, dignified or over-bearing, intolerant, self appraising and extravagant. Expansive, joyful and positive they are good with authority and make good law keepers and law makers.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Victory. Resides in Tiphareth on the Tree of Atziluth.
Tiphareth – Beauty - Ruled by The Sun, strong and noble. Energy in complete balanced manifestation. solar beauty, healing and redemption. Tiphareth is a reflection of the Divine Light from Kether.
From Kether it appears is a child; from Malkuth, a king. It is the stabilizing centre point of the TOL. Tiphareth is the Sun Centre, the son or prince born from the marriage of the great father principle and the great mother principle (Chokmah and Binah).
It is the sphere of mysticism and mediates between the microcosm and the macrocosm; "As above, so Below’. Exoteric religions go no higher on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth is the focus of the Christian religion, as God is made manifest in form and dwells among us; i.e. comes within range of human consciousness. Tiphareth, the Son, "shows us" Kether, the Father.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The benevolence of Jupiter, in the fiery Sign Leo, brings success and good relationships. It is victory following great effort. Waite emphasizes the idea of victory after strife with his mounted figure.
Clear rose pink is the colour of Tiphareth in Atziluth.
In Crowley's card “Victory”, perfect balance of powers is shown by the crossed wands (the wands of the three Adepts in Golden Dawn ritual).
According to Crowley this card represents energy in completely balanced manifestation. The Will is now in the sixth Sephirah, Tiphareth, which is a direct reflection of Kether. Jupiter is the king of the Gods and is a sign of luck, Leo is a fire sign and here it is ruled by the sun. All this in balance results in Victory, there are no bad or unbalanced elements at work in this card.
Gain or victory after strife. Love, pleasure gained by labour, carefulness, riches, success and sociability.
7 of Wands
The Sevens relate to victory, risk taking, danger and courage.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Waite’s card shows a man who has secured the high ground and is fighting with a staff against six other staffs. Victory in will power brings success, which is one aspect of this card. The card also shows an ongoing fight, but perhaps an enjoyable one and can indicate valour and courage on the path to achieving what you want. It could be a warning to try a less aggressive approach.
Astrological Correspondence
Mars in Leo (Aug 12 – Aug 22). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Dramatic, enthusiastic, ambitious, passionate or dominating, arrogant and melodramatic. Can have a big view of themselves and sometimes go crazy.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Resides in Netzach (7) on the Tree of Atziluth.
Netzach - Victory - The Sphere of Venus. Suffers difficulties, weakness, imbalance and illusion.
Netzach ‘ensouls’ the ideas of Hod, she manifests the imaginary.
A sphere of feeling, instincts and desires. An emotional sphere of the creative mind, inspiring artists and dancers and musicians.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The position of Mars in Leo is one of courage and strength, but whereas a fiery clash is certain, victory is not.
Amber or deep yellow is the colour of Netzach in Atziluth.
Crowley’s ‘Valour’ again uses the wands of the three Golden Dawn Adepts, but crosses them with a very crude club to suggest that the battle in this card may be a disordered and disorganized one of uncertain results.
Crowley's comments on this card are particularly lucid: The sevens are weak, earthy and feminine and represent a departure from the balance that implies a loss of confidence. This card is attributed to Mars in Leo and although the sun is still at full strength the army of Mars has been thrown in disarray. If a battle is to be won it is by dint of individual valour, a 'soldier's battle'. Only in the sphere of the spirit does Venus come into her own. Here her card "Valour," which well describes the dynamic and vitalising influence she exerts when her spiritual significance is understood and employed.
Opposition yet courage. Possible victory depending on the energy and courage exercised.
8 of Wands
The Eights tend to show movement, but also opposition to movement. They can also indicate new beginnings and change.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Eight Wands fly through the sky in Waite’s card. This card represents movement, or taking swift action to get what you want. It can indicate new ventures, proposals of love and new directions in life. Also, movement without direction, failure to move when it is appropriate to do so or unresolved plans.
Astrological Correspondence
Mercury in Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 2). Frank, versatile, foresighted, open-minded, nervous, unstable, dishonest and un-concentrated. The ‘old’, masterful and authoritative Sagittarius is a bad sign for Mercury, who is young, fast, irresponsible and seeks to undermine everything that Sagittarius represents. Often represents a conflict with learning, responsibility and authority.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Swiftness Resides in Hod on the Tree of Atziluth.
Hod – Splendour – The Sphere of Mercury. Suffers difficulties, weakness, imbalance and illusion. Hod is the sphere of the intellect or individual mind. Hod is often assigned Thoth (Hermes), the god of communication, magic, writing and science. Hod is the idea maker and Netzach puts the ideas into action.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Mercury is not well placed here; it is in its detriment in Sagittarius. Its energies are mitigated and quickly expended in the Sign of the Archer, a phenomenon which Crowley has likened to electricity in his card. The divinatory meaning is swiftness or rapidity.
Mercury’s energy is soon used up in the scale of fire, great energy released and dissipated.
Violet purple is the colour of Hod in the scale of Atziluth
Crowley’s card Swiftness represents mercury in Sagittarius and the 8th Sephirah is also ruled by Mercury, so speed and quickness and action are indicated. Although low on the TOL Mercury brings straight from Chokmah the message of the original Will. The flames are now missing from this card and are replaced by the heavier energies of speech, light and electricity.
Hasty communications and messages. Too much force applied too suddenly. Violent, but not lasting.
9 of Wands
The Nines show that something has been established, but often at a price; struggle, compromise and tension are indicated.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Waite’s card shows a man with a bandaged head, leaning against his staff in front of a row of eight other staffs (Wands).. He has achieved what he wanted, but at a price. He showed strength and resilience to achieve his goals. In divinatory terms the card can herald a fight or a conflict, but indicates the strength to prevail against opposition.
Astrological Correspondence
Moon in Sagittarius (Dec 3 – Dec 12). Sincere, cheerful, optimistic, alert, off-hand manner, careless and restless. The deep emotional feelings generated by these people can produce activists, environmentalists, feminists or other idealists. Maybe there is a strong link to mother, or maybe to a guru. These people have a need for ideals and a need for travel. They are party makers who need to expand to feel alive.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Great Strength Resides in Yesod on the Tree of Atziluth.
Yesod –Foundation - The Sphere of The Moon. Stable, strong and supportive. A crystallization of energy. The foundation of the universe, established in its strength, which is very fluidic, in a continual state of flux and reflux, the element of Water, moon’s influence.
Yesod is the sphere of ‘Ether of the Wise,’ a substance partaking of the nature of both mind and matter, it is the root of the ether of physics. The four elements of the ancients find their explanation in a fifth, the Ether, So in Yesod is the unmanifest fifth of the four elements of Malkuth.
Yesod, gathers the energy from all the other Sephiroth, and is the only transmitter of these energies to Malkuth, the physical plane.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The Lunar powers acquire great strength in Sagittarius, although wherever Yesod and the Moon are concerned, there is always another side to the coin. Successes are accompanied by strife and apprehension. The good health which this aspect conveys is certain, but with doubt about the course it may later take. In divination the card means great strength, power, recovery from sickness.
Indigo or violet-blue is the colour of Yesod in Atziluth. Blue is the colour given to the Moon on the King Scale. The red fire of Yod adds its strength.
Crowley’s Strength. The energy is once again in balance on the central pillar of the TOL but its energy is running out, here the energy begins to crystallize. But this card is ruled by the Moon in Sagittarius and the moon also rules the 9th Sephirah, Yesod, so the moon is doubly powerful here. Sagittarius is light, swift and spiritual and the moon is the weakest of the planets yet this card is called strength. Crowley: “ defence to be effective, must be mobile, great strength lies in the ability to change perpetually.”
Power, health, recovery from sickness. Tremendous and steady force that can not be shaken. Herculean strength, sometimes scientifically applied.
10 of Wands
The Tens show completion, or the need to go beyond the present position. They can also indicate abundance.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles.
In Waite’s card a man carries ten rods or Wands. This card suggests a burden, either physically or emotionally. Getting what you want (or think you want) is taking too much energy. This card can represent oppression or the taking on of too much. It can indicate someone caught up by responsibility when freedom is required. When ill dignified the burden is so heavy that the point of collapse is reached.
Astrological Correspondence
Saturn in Sagittarius (Dec 13 – Dec 21). Ruled by Jupiter, Dragon's tail exalted. This is a bad and unhappy mix, representing the conflict of Jupiter (Father) with Saturn (son). In mythology Saturn cut off the testicles of Jupiter and cast them into the sea, thereby creating the male and female principle. These people tend to be moralizing, ambitious, trustworthy, dignified, tactless and insincere.
The destructive powers of Saturn are amplified by the Swiftness of Sagittarius, leading to material force selfishly applied, usually with cruelty
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Oppression Resides in Malkuth on the Tree of Atziluth.
Malkuth – The Kingdom - The Sphere of The Earth, of form. This is the material world and a disaster in the sense of a complete loss of energy. It is the visible Universe, earth and the physical world, the magic of nature, the subtle, psychic aspect of matter.
It is divided into four quarters, which are assigned to the four elements of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water but likewise these are not earth, air, fire, and water as known to the physicists, but are the four conditions in which energy can exist, the so called ‘Elements of the Wise’.
It is in the inertia of Malkuth that its virtue lies. All the other Sephiroth are in varying degrees mobile. Binah is the Superior Mother and Malkuth the Inferior Mother. That which had its inception in Binah has its culmination in Malkuth
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Yellow is the colour of Malkuth in Atziluth.. an influx of the energy of Aleph, Air. Like the fool card it alludes to the beginning of a current of energy, as well as the end of one
Crowley’s card “Oppression” represents Fire in its most destructive aspect, stupid and obstinate cruelty from which there is no escape.
The 10th Sephirah shows Force detached from its spiritual sources, it is a complete loss of energy. Flames are once again visible on this card but Crowley describes them as in 'wild ruin, fire in its most destructive aspect.'
Fire in Malkuth is a blind, violet force, Saturn is heavy and dull and Sagittarius is light and spiritual and the result is oppression and repression. The 2 Dorjes shown in the 2 of Wands are now lengthened to bars, they have lost their nobility. The remaining wands are crude clubs.
Cruelty, malice, revenge, injustice, cruel and overbearing force and energy applied to material and selfish ends. Failure. Opposition too strong to overcome.
That re-write will not happen unless a new tarot deck is first created. That would require someone to create an actual deck of cards to my instruction. That someone may be me, one day, but this document has sat untouched for more than a decade and it is not on my to-do list.
Waite produced his cards with deliberate blinds, to protect the 'secret' teachings. Crowley's Thoth tarot is a true representation of the Golden Dawn's work with the cards.
For those curious about 'real' Tarot,or wanting to know more about the Tarot as a pictorial representation of all esoteric religions.. then the following text, if a little disjointed, is a good place to start.
For no-nabs-misty tarot (TM) you need a little back ground:
Tarot Wheel.
Want to learn the tarot? Print this wheel and look at all the correspondences for each of the minor arcana. Keep these correspondences in mind during the reading .
The Astrological correspondences of the Tarot cards
The Tarot Wheel
The first ring shows whether the astrological sign is positive or negative in astrological terminology.
The second ring shows the symbols of the astrological signs of the zodiac (shown in the ninth ring).
The third ring comprises the so called triplicities of astrology, the Elements.
The fourth ring shows the so called quadruplicities of astrology: Mutable, Fixed and Cardinal.
The fifth ring shows the Tarot suits that represent the elements shown in the third ring.
The sixth ring shows the number of the Tarot card that relates the decans (10° intervals) of the zodiac.
The seventh ring shows which planet is within the decans.
The eighth ring shows the calendar dates of the 36 zodiacal decans, which are also the dates representing the individual tarot cards and also one of the personal cards of an individual, based on their date of birth.
The ninth ring shows the astrological sign of the cards.
The tenth ring shows the planet that rules each of the astrological signs of the zodiac.
The eleventh ring shows the planet that is exalted in that zodiacal sign, i.e. a planet which has a stronger influence than usual because it shares certain characteristics with the astrological sign.
The twelfth ring shows which Knight, Queen or Prince (using Crowley terminology) rules which of the minor arcana.
The thirteenth and outermost ring shows which quarter of the zodiac is ruled by each of the Princesses in tandem with the Aces. These are referred to as Quadrants in astrology.
The 1st ring: Positive and negative signs.
Positive is used along with terms such as masculine, extrovert and active. Negative is used along with the terms female, introvert and receptive. The terms yin (female) and yang (masculine) could be applied also. In astrological writings positive is usually expressed as self-assertive and negative as self-repressive.
The 3rd ring: The triplicities
The triplicities are the four elements. Fire is energetic and assertive. Earth is practical and restrained. Air is communicative and mentally active. Water is emotional and intuitive.
The 4th ring: The quadruplicities
There are 3 quadruplicities: Mutable, Fixed and Cardinal. Mutable signs are variable and adaptable. Fixed signs are intense and steadfast and cardinal signs are enterprising and indicate motion. These are used in conjunction with the elemental signs. So for example the cardinal signs show enterprise. Aries (Fire) will be energetically and assertively enterprising. Cancer (Water) will be emotionally and intuitively enterprising. Libra (Air) will be mentally and communicatively enterprising and Capricorn (Earth) will be calculating and will be enterprising without taking risks.
Crowley describes the quadruplicities as follows: “Cardinal represents the first onrush of that element, they burst into their elements ´Here I am´. Fixed signs define and concentrate the element `This is what I am`. Mutable signs are more subtle, they do not express the energy of the cardinal, or the stability of the fixed, but they are not weak, just sensitive and willing to give of themselves. They are flexible and can adapt the element to the adventures of an ever changing universe”.
The 5th and 6th rings show the minor arcana, or pip cards. It can be seen that the Twos, Threes and Fours are associated with the cardinal signs, the Fives, Sixes and Sevens with the Fixed signs and the Eights, Nines and Tens with the Mutable signs.
The 7th ring: The Planets of the decans.
A fuller description the planets is given in the description of the cards themselves. As a general overview the following descriptors are often used in astrological discussions about the influence of the planets:
The Sun –Who you are, self integration, enhancing whatever energy is already present, life energy.
The Moon – Your emotions, rhythms, instinctive response to life. The early years of life, relationship to your mother, mood swings, moon cycles.
Mercury – How you communicate, communications in general, mental ability, expressiveness, nervous reaction, adaptability. The messenger of Jupiter, the eternal teenager, fast and furious. Talkers, traders and intellectuals. Mercury brings money through work and trade.
Venus – How you love, unity, quality and intensity of the feelings and affections, sense of personal values, ability to form intimate relationships.
Mars – How you act, activity in general, shows strength and quality of energetic, passionate and emotional expression. Forceful and practical with sexual inclination.
Jupiter – How you expand and grow, expansion in general, joy, ability to seize opportunities for expansion through growth, materially and understanding, luck. The God of gods, the supreme power, kind, giving and generous though very naïve. Jupiter brings money through gifts (like Ganesh).
Saturn – How you learn, wisdom and frustration in the sense that it is often through your frustrations that you learn in life. Formative, ability for self-discipline, sense of personal inadequacy and limitation, quality of self-consciousness, getting old. Can be slow, heavy, obstinate and obscure. Also relates to structure, including your bone structure.
The planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto revolve every 7, 14 and 21 years, respectively, so they effect whole generations and are probably best ignored in astrological terms. Uranus is often associated with breaking free, freedom and originality of expression and unconventional experiences; Neptune with spirituality, mystical and religious ideals and peculiar or chaotic development; Pluto with death, transformations, explosive endings and beginnings to distinct phases of life developments. Pluto is the brother of Jupiter and rules over Hell.
The 9th ring: The Astrological Signs.
This is a brief introduction to a very large subject.
Aries. Ruled by Mars, Positive, Cardinal Fire.
Self expressive, energetic, undomesticated and assertive. Spontaneous, objective, urgent, impulsive, restless, impatient, frank and direct. Quick thinking and quick witted but not reflective or philosophical. Passionate but not tactful, strong sexual feelings and demands. Can be selfish, argumentative, quick tempered, aggressive and foolhardy. They like to protect themselves. They can suffer from a lack of empathy, ‘Me’ is important to them, they know who they are and are not self-reflective, though equally they do not suffer from self deception.
Taurus. Ruled by Venus, Negative, Fixed Earth.
Restrained, domesticated, with boundaries, self-repressive, reliable, passive, intense, practical, steadfast, productive and enduring. Unflinching in attack. Likes comfort, good food, art, beauty and harmony. Mentally stable, methodical, deliberate, constructive but unoriginal and can be boring. Very affectionate, sensual, instinctively aware of the power of their bodies sexually. Possessive, even over-possessive, self-indulgent, self-centred and grasping. They seek security.
Gemini. Ruled by Mercury. Positive, Mutable Air.
Communicative, self-expressive, mentally active, interested in the universe around them, adaptable, variable, spontaneous, restless, inquisitive, likes change. Inconsistent, witty, chatty, never dull. Intelligent, light hearted in love, fickle, coolly affectionate, flirtatious, can be superficial, two faced, inconsistent and cunning. They need to adjust to their environment.
Cancer. Ruled by the Moon. Negative, Cardinal Water.
Emotional, intuitive, self-repressing, passive and enterprising. Always in touch with their roots, their past and their relationships with their mother. Defensive urge to protect and nourish. Hard outer but soft inner, highly sensitive and easily hurt inside but still hold an impression of external toughness. Resourceful, clannish, patriotic, sympathetic, imaginative, sentimental and moody. Shrewd with a good memory. Artistic, impressionable to psychic influences, romantic, tender, protective and touchy. Can be too moody, prone to self-pity, timid, untidy, unstable and nationalistic.
Leo. Ruled by the Sun. Positive, Fixed Fire.
Egotistical, creative, self-expressive, energetic, impressive, authority figure; a natural leader who can inspire others to create. Fixed Fire gives self control but can be dominating and overbearing. Warm hearted, broad minded, good organizer. Self-assured, intellectually inclined and able to look at broad patterns. A powerful and sincere lover. Can be pompous, bombastic, selfish, patronizing and with an urge for power.
Virgo. Ruled by Mercury. Negative, Mutable Earth
The only female symbol in the zodiac. Self-repressive, always helping others, passive, restrained, practical, adaptable and variable. Analytical, efficient perfectionist seeking efficiency. Critical, reserved, intelligent, shrewd, discerning, modest, conventional lover. Can be too critical, too modest and a worrier, always looking for compromise they often lose track of who they are. Can be a hypochondriac.
Libra. Ruled by Venus. Positive, Cardinal Air.
Self-expressive, loving, communicative, mentally active, harmonious, charming, intelligent, kind, diplomatic and idealistic. Can be lazy and easily influenced by others. Romantic and sentimental, never critical. Can be too easy going. Changeable, can lack confidence. Has a sense of social duty. Likes art and beauty.
Scorpio. Ruled by Pluto and Mars. Negative, Fixed Water.
Self-repressive, passive, emotional, intuitive, intense and steadfast. They are always aware of their own mortality and the nature of death. Penetrating attitude, intenseness, urge to identify with one’s source. Intensity of expression, thinking and feeling. Strong will, penetrating eyes, power and passion of conviction. Subtle, secretive and purposeful can be brutal and aggressive. Strong reasoning power, analytical and keenly perceptive. Passionate, jealous lover with strong sexual feelings. Can be brooding, jealous, cold, distant, destructive, stubborn, cynical, secretive and sometimes deliberately cruel. Keen to pursue the exotic and the mysteries of life and to see the dark side.
Sagittarius. Ruled by Jupiter. Positive, Mutable Fire.
Self-expressive, spiritual, spiritualists, energetic, assertive, adaptable, variable, spontaneous, attitude of freedom and an urge to explore their environment. Far reaching, free ranging, restless and idealistic. Seeks freedom and space. Optimistic, sincere, frank, versatile, mentally active, philosophical, foresighted, religious and a tendency to moralise. Open minded, deep thinking, good judgement and outspoken. Ardent, conventional lover who must feel free. Can be an extremist, extravagant, boastful, inconsiderate, a playboy type.
Capricorn. Ruled by Saturn. Negative, Cardinal Earth.
Self-repressive, passive, restrained but enterprising and practical. A loner or aesthetic. Patient, persevering, cautious and resourceful. Capable of bearing hardship and frustration. Disciplined, self contained, responsible and sensible. Prudent, cool and calculating. Cool in love, cautious, modest and faithful but can be selfish, narrow minded, too severe and exacting. Need for self-sufficiency. Worriers.
Aquarius, Ruled by Saturn and Uranus. Positive, Fixed Air.
Self-expressive, mentally active, philosophical, intense, steadfast, spontaneous. Detached from the world with unconventional but progressive ideas. Strong ideals, humanitarian, intelligent, reformist ideas, imaginative, broad-minded, inventive. Wants to be faithful in love but is independent and dispassionate. Can be perverse, eccentric, cranky, tactless, rude, detached, erratic and have no personal integrity.
Pisces. Ruled by Jupiter and Neptune. Negative, Mutable Water.
Self-repressive, passive, emotional, intuitive, adaptable, variable. Nebulous attitude expressing impressionableness. They are half way between this world and the next. Enjoying life’s mysteries and the frontiers between worlds. Emotionally sensitive, compassionate, sympathetic and easy going. Psychic mediums. Impressionable, receptive, lovable and submissive but disillusioned by the cold reality of a family. Can be impractical, over-emotional, careless, indecisive, secretive, confused, gullible, temperamental and dependent on others. Tries to transcend the mundane. Often poets, musicians and artists.
The eleventh ring shows the planet that is exalted in that zodiacal sign, i.e. a planet which has a stronger influence than usual because it shares certain characteristics with the astrological sign.
The 12th ring shows which Kings, Queens and Princes rule which section of the zodiac (each ruling 3 pip cards). The Knights rule the last decan of the fixed signs and the first two decans of the mutable signs. The Queens rule the last decan of the mutable signs and the first two decans of the cardinal signs and the Princes rule the last decan of the cardinal signs and the first two decans of the fixed signs
The 13th ring shows the Ace of Earth, with the Princess of Earth as its throne in Quadrant I Aries, Taurus and Gemini). The Ace of Wands, on the throne of the Princess of Wands, sits in Quadrant II (Cancer, Leo and Virgo), The Ace of Cups on the throne of the Princess of Cups are in Quadrant III (Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius) and the Ace of Swords on the throne of the Princess of Swords are in Quadrant IV (Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces).
The Tree of Life
The Tree of Life comprises 10 circles or Sephiroth, [Sephira (singular) means “number”], connected by 22 paths, as shown, below.
There are actually 4 trees, on top of one another (although to view them as circular would be better).
The top tree is named Atziluth (Wands), followed by Briah (Cups), Yetzirah (Swords) and Assiah (Pentangles).
All 10 sephiroth are but aspects of the top sephira (Kether), which represents the totality of existence.
The 22 paths connecting the sephiroth are each characterized by one of the 22 Major Arcana, and each are ascribed one of the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.
Note: this is from Crowley's Book of Thoth. I think he was wrong to change The Star and The Emperor, they need to be swapped over on the above tree.
The first sephira is Kether, or the crown, the highest sephira. It represents the absolute and is very strong. It is ruled by Pluto and is home to the Aces, which define the suit in principle.
The second sephira is Chokmah, which represents Wisdom. It is the sphere of the zodiac and home to the All-father, the Kings and the Twos. It represents the supreme male concept and is very strong. It is ruled by Neptune.
The third sephira is Binah, which represents Understanding. It is the sphere of Saturn and home to the Great Mother, Queens and Threes. It represents the supreme female concept and is very strong. It is ruled by Saturn.
The concept of the Abyss will be described later. In simple terms the 3 spheres above the Abyss are conceptual and beyond the understanding of 'normal' intellect. The spheres below the Abyss are manifest and not only conceptual. i.e. they exist in a way which is understandable by 'normal' intellectual processes.
The fourth sephira is Chesed, which represents Mercy. It is the sphere of Jupiter. It is the highest sephira below the abyss and is therefore the highest manifestation of the universe in actuality. It is the rule of law and it is very strong. It is ruled by Jupiter and home of the Fours which define the suits in actuality.
The fifth sephira is Geburah, which represents Strength. It is the sphere of Mars and indicates motion, stress and storm. It is strong but unbalanced. Home of the Fives, it is ruled by Mars.
The sixth sephira is Tiphareth, which represents Beauty. It is the sphere of Sol. It is a direct reflection and first balanced manifestation of the Kether (Aces) and so it is strong and noble: energy in completely balanced manifestation. It is home to the Princes and Sixes and is ruled by the Sun.
The seventh sephira is Netzach, which represents Victory. It is the sphere of Venus. It is unbalanced, difficult and weak, indicating a masculine female. Illusion is present. It is home to the Sevens and is ruled by Venus.
The eighth sephira is Hod, which represents Splendour. It is the sphere of Mercury. It is unbalanced, difficult and weak, indicating an effeminate male. Illusion is present. It is home to the Eights and is ruled by Mercury. The original energy of the suit is beginning to run out this far down the Tree and planetary and zodiacal influences become more important.
The ninth sephira is Yesod, which represents the Foundation. Its is the sphere of Luna. It is the seat of the greatest crystallization of energy and is stable and supportive (though not on Yetzirah – Swords). It is home to the Nines and is ruled by the Moon.
The tenth sephira is Malkuth, which represents the Kingdom. It is the sphere of Earth. It represents the end and loss of all energy and is a disaster as the suits are about to lose their identity, though not in Assiah – Disks; the very bottom has nowhere to go except the very top. It is the material world and is home to the Princesses and Tens. It is ruled by the Earth.
Wands
The Ace of Wands
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
The Aces represent the elements in their pure form, representing the roots, or pure essence. All the other minor arcana are but facets of the Ace. Crowley describes the Aces as ‘seeds’ of the element. There would be no creation if the elements remained in their pure form (or as seeds), for creation to occur the base elements must be combined, or to continue the metaphor, the seeds must germinate and grow.
In divinatory terms Aces describe the basic quality of the suit (element) and the root of creation. They represent opportunity.
The Waite card shows the club as living and bearing leaves, a phallic reference. The Wand has 10 leaves, suggesting the 10 Sephiroth on the Tree of Life
This card represents power, ego, will power, strength, creation, invention, excitement, sexual desire and eagerness to begin new projects. It can be an overwhelming energy and could lead to failure and chaos.
Astrological Correspondence
Rules one quarter of the skies, along with the Princess of Wands, zodiacal signs Cancer, Leo and Virgo, and the land masses of Asia.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Root of the Powers of Fire. Resides in Kether on the Tree of Atziluth
Kether - the Absolute – Sphere of Pluto, very strong. - In Kether there is no form but only pure being, never in actual manifestation. It is a higher dimension, a different order of being.
In Kether there is no division, no opposites, it is the One and existed before there was any reflection of itself. It is. utterly inert, pure being without activity; activity begins in Chokmah.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
This card represents the primary outpouring energy of the universe. It is the source of All.
The colour of Kether in the world of Atziluth is ‘brilliance.’
Crowley's card has fiery Yods into the shape of the Tree of Life, he has designed a glyph of the power of Fire.The essence of the element of Fire in all its inception.
This card symbolizes force, strength, rush, vigour and energy. It implies natural rather than invoked strength.
2 of Wands
The twos show union, connection, duality, dialogue, friction and opposites.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows a finely dressed man standing on castle ramparts, between two Wands, holding a globe of the Earth in his right hand. Is he reminiscing of past days? reflecting on the travels and adventures that brought his wealth? Or surveying his domain, his kingdom? (a reference to the Golden Dawn meaning of the card: Dominion).
Astrological Correspondence
Mars in Aries (Mar 21 – 30). Impulsive, energetic, passionate and self-willed, or quick tempered, aggressive, violent and reckless.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Dominion. Resides in Chokmah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Chokmah - Wisdom – Sphere of Neptune - very strong - the supreme male concept. If we conceive of the Primordial Point which is Kether as being extended into the line which is Chokmah, we have an adequate symbolic representation. This energy, in a straight line is essentially dynamic. It is, in fact, the primary dynamism, It is the Great Stimulator of the Universe. It is from Chokmah that Binah, the Third Sephirah, receives its influx of energy. The archetypal positive, primordial Maleness.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
In the Atziluthic realm, the fiery male force that is Mars, is on its own ground, and happy to be there. Fiery Mars rules fiery Aries, a tremendous force. Chokmah is the first onrush of male energy. The energies are balanced, the 2 wands are in harmony with Atziluth, making this a powerful card of stable strength and dominion.
Soft blue is the colour of Chokmah in Atziluth
Crowley card is called “Dominion”, the GD name
This card represents will in its most exalted form and Crowley states 'For pure will, unassuaged of purpose, delivered from the lust of result, is every way perfect'. There are references here to both yogic and Buddhist philosophies, which state that an action devoid of egotism is free from the rules of Karma.
The Buddhist philosophy is also shown in the symbology of this card which shows two Tibetan Dorjes crossed with flames emanating from the centre. The six flames are representative of the Sun's energy (reference to the sixth Sephiroth on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth, which is ruled by the sun) and represent the creative will.
This card represents Mars in Aries and is also ruled by Mars, a powerful 'masculine' blend further fuelled and powered by the sun, which is exalted. All this take place in the second Sephirah of the Fire Tree of Life, which is supremely masculine.
Influence over others, authority, power, dominion, strength, harmony of rule and of justice. Also Boldness, courage, fierceness, generosity and ambition.
3 of Wands
The Threes are the full expression of the suit (element) and represent a strong, secure and stable situation.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows a finely dressed man standing between three Wands looking out to sea at passing ships. Perhaps the ships belong to the man? This card shows material success, strength and a solid basis. Also, established force, pride and arrogance.
Astrological Correspondence
Sun in Aries (Mar 31 – Apr 10). Ruled by Mars, Sun exalted. Assertive, enterprising and bold or combative, forceful and selfish. Typical Arians.
The Sun into Aries heralds the spring. The Sun illuminates Aries, the sign of Cardinal Fire, ruled by Mars. The result is great strength in individual expression, but also egotism which may manifest as pride, arrogance and conceit
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Established Strength. Resides in Binah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Binah - Understanding – Sphere of Saturn - very strong, the supreme female concept. the great mother principle. Binah represents the female potency of the universe, as Chokmah represents the male, they are Positive and Negative; Force and Form. Each heads its Pillar, Chokmah at the head of the Pillar of Mercy, and Binah at the head of the Pillar of Severity. Chokmah without Binah, and Binah without Chokmah, are incomprehensible, for the pair are the functional unit, and not either of them function separately.
This is the archetypal womb through which life comes into manifestation. Binah receives its energy from Chokmah but the embodied spirit must also die, and she is also death to the same dynamic energy.
The full materialization of energy only occurs at Malkuth, the material universe.
Atziluth, the archetypal world, divine thought, corresponds to the spiritual level, Wands in Tarot
The primeval energy produced by the great masculine force (‘The Will’) has been transferred to the Mother, who conceives and gives birth. Mother takes the masculine force and manifests it into form.
Crimson is the colour of Binah in Atziluth, a harmony of the great feminine principle with the masculine element of fire at this level.
Crowley’s card, “Virtue”, shows three crossed Wands - balance of Chokmah and Binah which has given forth Tiphareth (the Queen has given birth to the Prince, and growth begins), shown by Crowley as the blossoming of the Lotus.
The sun is in Aries where it is also exalted, and although Mars rules his energy and will is now tempered by the Great Mother in the third Sephirah, Binah, which is the supreme female concept. This is a powerful and balanced blend, a 'virtuous' mix.
Pride, arrogance, self-assertion, established force, strength, realization of hope, completion of labour, success after a struggle, pride, nobility.
4 of Wands
The Fours indicate structure, solidity, inflexibility and order. They define the suit (element) in actuality.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite has 4 Wands arranged as an open structure before a castle. In the background people are celebrating or dancing. This card represents harmony, a marriage, solidity, optimism, a love of freedom. A strong card, even ill dignified it has the same meaning.
Astrological Correspondence
Venus in Aries. (Apr 11 – 20). Ruled by Mars, Sun exalted . Ardent, demonstrative, persuasive, popular or erotic, self-seeking and self-centred. They think only of themselves and their own feelings, so are not empathic. Often single people who fall quickly in and out of love. a brief romance, or warm but fleeting feelings
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Perfected Work. Resides in Chesed on the Tree of Atziluth.
Chesed – Mercy - The Sphere of Jupiter - very strong. The rule of law, materialization. the beginning of manifested form - Actual manifestation, as our finite minds can conceive it, The loving father, the protector and preserver he continues the work of Chokmah, organising and preserving that which the All-Father has begotten. Chesed builds what Geburah destroys.
Chesed represents the formulation of the archetypal idea, the concretion of the abstract. When the abstract principle that forms the root of some new activity is formulating in our minds, we are operating in the sphere of Chesed.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Venus is activated by the Mars energies of Aries. It is perfection, a harmony of opposites, male-female and love-war.
Deep violet is the colour of Chesed in Atziluth.
Crowley’s “Completion” is a crossing of four wands, each of which carries the head of the ram (Aries) and the dove (Venus).
This is the first card below the abyss and here will power is first manifested. Manifested will is built into solid order, Law, governments etc. This card is also well balanced, Venus is now in Aries and ruled by Mars, this is a strong male-female relationship, fuelled further by the sun. This card is a lesser version of the Wheel of Fortune, or Fortune as Crowley names it.
Settlement, arrangement, completion, subtlety and cleverness. Perfection or completion of a thing built up with trouble and labour. Rest after labour. One cannot establish ones work without tact and gentleness.
5 of Wands
The Fives are usually bad news in a reading, they show loss, struggle, conflict, sorrow, challenges, crises and painful realities. Often they indicate an outside influence.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. Wands are associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion, aggression, battle and struggles.
Waite’s card shows Five youths fighting with staffs (Wands). This card shows an ongoing conflict, but not a serious one, these youths are training or competing rather than engaging in a serious fight. In divinatory terms this card heralds conflict, competitive fighting, difficulty or loss. It can indicate a more serious battle.
Astrological Correspondence
Saturn in Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 1). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Authoritative, self-assured, responsible or resentful of limitations. Frustrated by authority and may have problems with their fathers.
The powerful effects of Saturn in Leo, a fire sign, are quarrelling, agitation and strife. This card should be compared with the 5 Swords, the Lord of Defeat.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Strife. Resides in Geburah on the Tree of Atziluth.
Geburah – Strength, Severity – Sphere of Mars - strong but unbalanced. Motion, storm and stress Martial energy and destruction, not evil but a necessary purification – Geburah is the warrior king, armed with the sword of righteousness, going to war to protect his people. He is a slayer of dragons.
Geburah is the Destroyer, the Lord of Fear and Severity, a force necessary to balance Chesed, the Lord of Love, and Netzach, the Lady of Beauty.
Binah perpetually binds force into form; Geburah perpetually breaks up and destroys all forms.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Orange is the colour Geburah in Atziluth.
Crowley calls this a "volcanic energy."His card, Strife, shows the Golden Down wand of a Chief Adept crossed by the Phoenix Wand of the Adeptus Major of Geburah and by the Lotus Wand of the Adeptus Minor of Tiphareth. This card symbolizes the nature of the energies.
Leo is the strongest and most balanced of the fire signs and it is ruled by the sun. But Saturn is dull and heavy and the fifth Sephirah is strong but unbalanced so the mix is one of trouble and strife.
Quarrelling and fighting. Violent strife and boldness, cruelty, violence, lust and desire.
6 of Wands
The Sixes are a recovery after the stress of the Fives. They indicate communication, success, relationships and sharing.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles.
Astrological Correspondence
Jupiter in Leo (Aug 2 – Aug 11). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Generous, big-hearted, dignified or over-bearing, intolerant, self appraising and extravagant. Expansive, joyful and positive they are good with authority and make good law keepers and law makers.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Victory. Resides in Tiphareth on the Tree of Atziluth.
Tiphareth – Beauty - Ruled by The Sun, strong and noble. Energy in complete balanced manifestation. solar beauty, healing and redemption. Tiphareth is a reflection of the Divine Light from Kether.
From Kether it appears is a child; from Malkuth, a king. It is the stabilizing centre point of the TOL. Tiphareth is the Sun Centre, the son or prince born from the marriage of the great father principle and the great mother principle (Chokmah and Binah).
It is the sphere of mysticism and mediates between the microcosm and the macrocosm; "As above, so Below’. Exoteric religions go no higher on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth is the focus of the Christian religion, as God is made manifest in form and dwells among us; i.e. comes within range of human consciousness. Tiphareth, the Son, "shows us" Kether, the Father.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The benevolence of Jupiter, in the fiery Sign Leo, brings success and good relationships. It is victory following great effort. Waite emphasizes the idea of victory after strife with his mounted figure.
Clear rose pink is the colour of Tiphareth in Atziluth.
In Crowley's card “Victory”, perfect balance of powers is shown by the crossed wands (the wands of the three Adepts in Golden Dawn ritual).
According to Crowley this card represents energy in completely balanced manifestation. The Will is now in the sixth Sephirah, Tiphareth, which is a direct reflection of Kether. Jupiter is the king of the Gods and is a sign of luck, Leo is a fire sign and here it is ruled by the sun. All this in balance results in Victory, there are no bad or unbalanced elements at work in this card.
Gain or victory after strife. Love, pleasure gained by labour, carefulness, riches, success and sociability.
7 of Wands
The Sevens relate to victory, risk taking, danger and courage.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Waite’s card shows a man who has secured the high ground and is fighting with a staff against six other staffs. Victory in will power brings success, which is one aspect of this card. The card also shows an ongoing fight, but perhaps an enjoyable one and can indicate valour and courage on the path to achieving what you want. It could be a warning to try a less aggressive approach.
Astrological Correspondence
Mars in Leo (Aug 12 – Aug 22). Ruled by the Sun, Uranus exalted. Dramatic, enthusiastic, ambitious, passionate or dominating, arrogant and melodramatic. Can have a big view of themselves and sometimes go crazy.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Resides in Netzach (7) on the Tree of Atziluth.
Netzach - Victory - The Sphere of Venus. Suffers difficulties, weakness, imbalance and illusion.
Netzach ‘ensouls’ the ideas of Hod, she manifests the imaginary.
A sphere of feeling, instincts and desires. An emotional sphere of the creative mind, inspiring artists and dancers and musicians.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The position of Mars in Leo is one of courage and strength, but whereas a fiery clash is certain, victory is not.
Amber or deep yellow is the colour of Netzach in Atziluth.
Crowley’s ‘Valour’ again uses the wands of the three Golden Dawn Adepts, but crosses them with a very crude club to suggest that the battle in this card may be a disordered and disorganized one of uncertain results.
Crowley's comments on this card are particularly lucid: The sevens are weak, earthy and feminine and represent a departure from the balance that implies a loss of confidence. This card is attributed to Mars in Leo and although the sun is still at full strength the army of Mars has been thrown in disarray. If a battle is to be won it is by dint of individual valour, a 'soldier's battle'. Only in the sphere of the spirit does Venus come into her own. Here her card "Valour," which well describes the dynamic and vitalising influence she exerts when her spiritual significance is understood and employed.
Opposition yet courage. Possible victory depending on the energy and courage exercised.
8 of Wands
The Eights tend to show movement, but also opposition to movement. They can also indicate new beginnings and change.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Eight Wands fly through the sky in Waite’s card. This card represents movement, or taking swift action to get what you want. It can indicate new ventures, proposals of love and new directions in life. Also, movement without direction, failure to move when it is appropriate to do so or unresolved plans.
Astrological Correspondence
Mercury in Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 2). Frank, versatile, foresighted, open-minded, nervous, unstable, dishonest and un-concentrated. The ‘old’, masterful and authoritative Sagittarius is a bad sign for Mercury, who is young, fast, irresponsible and seeks to undermine everything that Sagittarius represents. Often represents a conflict with learning, responsibility and authority.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Swiftness Resides in Hod on the Tree of Atziluth.
Hod – Splendour – The Sphere of Mercury. Suffers difficulties, weakness, imbalance and illusion. Hod is the sphere of the intellect or individual mind. Hod is often assigned Thoth (Hermes), the god of communication, magic, writing and science. Hod is the idea maker and Netzach puts the ideas into action.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Mercury is not well placed here; it is in its detriment in Sagittarius. Its energies are mitigated and quickly expended in the Sign of the Archer, a phenomenon which Crowley has likened to electricity in his card. The divinatory meaning is swiftness or rapidity.
Mercury’s energy is soon used up in the scale of fire, great energy released and dissipated.
Violet purple is the colour of Hod in the scale of Atziluth
Hasty communications and messages. Too much force applied too suddenly. Violent, but not lasting.
9 of Wands
The Nines show that something has been established, but often at a price; struggle, compromise and tension are indicated.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles
Waite’s card shows a man with a bandaged head, leaning against his staff in front of a row of eight other staffs (Wands).. He has achieved what he wanted, but at a price. He showed strength and resilience to achieve his goals. In divinatory terms the card can herald a fight or a conflict, but indicates the strength to prevail against opposition.
Astrological Correspondence
Moon in Sagittarius (Dec 3 – Dec 12). Sincere, cheerful, optimistic, alert, off-hand manner, careless and restless. The deep emotional feelings generated by these people can produce activists, environmentalists, feminists or other idealists. Maybe there is a strong link to mother, or maybe to a guru. These people have a need for ideals and a need for travel. They are party makers who need to expand to feel alive.
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Great Strength Resides in Yesod on the Tree of Atziluth.
Yesod –Foundation - The Sphere of The Moon. Stable, strong and supportive. A crystallization of energy. The foundation of the universe, established in its strength, which is very fluidic, in a continual state of flux and reflux, the element of Water, moon’s influence.
Yesod is the sphere of ‘Ether of the Wise,’ a substance partaking of the nature of both mind and matter, it is the root of the ether of physics. The four elements of the ancients find their explanation in a fifth, the Ether, So in Yesod is the unmanifest fifth of the four elements of Malkuth.
Yesod, gathers the energy from all the other Sephiroth, and is the only transmitter of these energies to Malkuth, the physical plane.
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
The Lunar powers acquire great strength in Sagittarius, although wherever Yesod and the Moon are concerned, there is always another side to the coin. Successes are accompanied by strife and apprehension. The good health which this aspect conveys is certain, but with doubt about the course it may later take. In divination the card means great strength, power, recovery from sickness.
Indigo or violet-blue is the colour of Yesod in Atziluth. Blue is the colour given to the Moon on the King Scale. The red fire of Yod adds its strength.
Crowley’s Strength. The energy is once again in balance on the central pillar of the TOL but its energy is running out, here the energy begins to crystallize. But this card is ruled by the Moon in Sagittarius and the moon also rules the 9th Sephirah, Yesod, so the moon is doubly powerful here. Sagittarius is light, swift and spiritual and the moon is the weakest of the planets yet this card is called strength. Crowley: “ defence to be effective, must be mobile, great strength lies in the ability to change perpetually.”
Power, health, recovery from sickness. Tremendous and steady force that can not be shaken. Herculean strength, sometimes scientifically applied.
10 of Wands
The Tens show completion, or the need to go beyond the present position. They can also indicate abundance.
Wands represent the Fire element, the energy of existence. Wands are not passive and can be destructive. In Tarot the Wands are often associated with will energy, power, ego, development, competition and self-assertion but also aggression, battle and struggles.
In Waite’s card a man carries ten rods or Wands. This card suggests a burden, either physically or emotionally. Getting what you want (or think you want) is taking too much energy. This card can represent oppression or the taking on of too much. It can indicate someone caught up by responsibility when freedom is required. When ill dignified the burden is so heavy that the point of collapse is reached.
Astrological Correspondence
Saturn in Sagittarius (Dec 13 – Dec 21). Ruled by Jupiter, Dragon's tail exalted. This is a bad and unhappy mix, representing the conflict of Jupiter (Father) with Saturn (son). In mythology Saturn cut off the testicles of Jupiter and cast them into the sea, thereby creating the male and female principle. These people tend to be moralizing, ambitious, trustworthy, dignified, tactless and insincere.
The destructive powers of Saturn are amplified by the Swiftness of Sagittarius, leading to material force selfishly applied, usually with cruelty
Qabalah / Golden Dawn
Lord of Oppression Resides in Malkuth on the Tree of Atziluth.
Malkuth – The Kingdom - The Sphere of The Earth, of form. This is the material world and a disaster in the sense of a complete loss of energy. It is the visible Universe, earth and the physical world, the magic of nature, the subtle, psychic aspect of matter.
It is divided into four quarters, which are assigned to the four elements of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water but likewise these are not earth, air, fire, and water as known to the physicists, but are the four conditions in which energy can exist, the so called ‘Elements of the Wise’.
It is in the inertia of Malkuth that its virtue lies. All the other Sephiroth are in varying degrees mobile. Binah is the Superior Mother and Malkuth the Inferior Mother. That which had its inception in Binah has its culmination in Malkuth
Atziluth is the archetypal world of divine thought, which corresponds to the spiritual level, Tarot Wands reside here.
Yellow is the colour of Malkuth in Atziluth.. an influx of the energy of Aleph, Air. Like the fool card it alludes to the beginning of a current of energy, as well as the end of one
Crowley’s card “Oppression” represents Fire in its most destructive aspect, stupid and obstinate cruelty from which there is no escape.
The 10th Sephirah shows Force detached from its spiritual sources, it is a complete loss of energy. Flames are once again visible on this card but Crowley describes them as in 'wild ruin, fire in its most destructive aspect.'
Fire in Malkuth is a blind, violet force, Saturn is heavy and dull and Sagittarius is light and spiritual and the result is oppression and repression. The 2 Dorjes shown in the 2 of Wands are now lengthened to bars, they have lost their nobility. The remaining wands are crude clubs.
Cruelty, malice, revenge, injustice, cruel and overbearing force and energy applied to material and selfish ends. Failure. Opposition too strong to overcome.
Last edited by Vidya Moksha on Wed Sep 22, 2021 7:59 pm; edited 4 times in total
. Ruled by Saturn and Uranus, Neptune exalted. These people think differently and affect the world around them. They are often original, inventive and inquisitive but also eccentric, abrupt and contrary.
