When we learn tarot, we learn definitions. That’s great, especially for those of us who are more left brained. We want something we can connect to through language.
But with Tarot, there is an entire other dimension. The dimension of visual reference such as color, shape, and pattern. This is the realm of the right brain. Right brained stuff does not lend itself to words, which is why it is so difficult to explain.
So here it goes. I will attempt to explain moving images in Tarot cards.
- In the above picture, we have the 3 of swords, reversed.
- Look at the shape of the heart and swords within the space of the cards.
- Next, look at the Empress reversed. Look for that same shape.
- We find it in the Venus symbol on her shield.
- The single sword down the center of the heart has moved and become a baton in the hand of the Empress. (Sorry about the graphic, the arrow moved and is pointing at her face.) The corn stalks behind could also be viewed as the swords as well. The point is, they moved.
Interpretation: things may have not worked out the way you hoped, but you are in command of your creative power. Use it to create something anew.
- Next, notice how the woman in the Strength card appears to be in a meditative state. She has the power to work with nature (the lion), just like the Empress. She is existing in the now, while envisioning the future with her eyes closed.
- Her face (with eyes closed) is pointed toward the man in the 7 of pentacles, who is waiting to harvest the pentacles. His staff is by his side. He is not beating the bush with it.
Interpretation: Since the face of the woman of the Strength card is toward the man in the 7 of pentacles, I see this as emphasizing the stay calm and wait message.
Finally, the uroboros pointed at by the blue arrow points out the cyclical nature of life, the creative process, these cards, this reading. Everything cycles through again and again, always with a return to center.
Interpretation: All of your efforts are not for nothing. When the timing is right, your creativity will bear fruit. Don’t give up. Keep creating.
Add your 2 cents in the comments below. What do you see?
Hi Cassandra
I see the 3 Swords rev as a situation ending in disappointment or on an unpleasant note. However, The Empress rev and the symbology of the heart and the shield suggest the situation is for the best – I am picking up a sense of damage limitation here. The woman’s closed eyes on The Strength card looking down on 7 Pentacles could point to her reluctance to consider lowering
her expectations or downsizing of some description. She may be battling her sense of pride in not wanting to acknowledge it.
her expectations or downsizing in some way. She appears to have arrived at a crossroads in her life where some kind of decision and re-evaluation needs to be made
Nice! Thanks for the insight, Sally.