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Wands
FIRE (though some decks have it as Air). If FIRE then:
Represents passion. As such, in a reading it usually stands for a Querent's ambition, career, creative endeavors, religion
and/or philosophy. Anything a person might put their energy and soul into, such as teaching and leadership. This is
something you have to do, whether you are recompensed for it or not. It is something that burns inside of you and you need
to act on it.
Cups
WATER
Represents the emotions. Best known for representing the Querent's love life, but it also stands for emotional extremes,
such as elation, depression or bliss, and the negatives that come with such emotions, like over-indulgence in food, drink,
drugs. Likewise the positives like poetry or music. Also, psychic powers, visions, illusions. These are feelings that you
surrender to, that you flow or sink into.
Swords
AIR. AIR though some decks have it as Fire. If AIR then:
Represents pure mind, thinking, speaking. Best known for representing problems and troubles especially those relating to
communications or bad press, but really about anything to do with either words and/or thoughts. Brilliant thoughts as well
as nightmares; sharp ideas or a sharp tongue. This is the card of scientists and analysts, of thinking things through or
thinking/saying too much. Ideas breeze into your mind, words are given breath, written letters and messages fly on the
wind.
Pentacles
EARTH
Represents the body and the physical. Best known for representing health and money, but is also anything to do with work,
a job, a task, a craft. Also luck. That which is solid, real.
ACES
Aces are the root force. They are the spark. Relate them to the Magician, who presents the tools to the Fool. They have no
purpose yet, but are filled with raw potential. They are the active energy of the suit ready to be used. They can also indicate
direction or season, though which stands for which is often debated. Here are the "usual" directions and seasons. If,
however, they don't feel right to you, the reader, use whatever works best.
Ace of Wands
South/Summer
A new spark of energy for a new passion. This usually indicates that the querent has just discovered a new religion,
philosophy, cause or career choice. They feel their energy go up, they feel the heat, and they want more of it. They take up
the wand and start to walk.
Ace of Cups
West/Fall
Emotions rising up for new love. This usually indicates that the querent is feeling a new welling of emotion or beginning to
have some vivid dreams. They're not writing the poetry yet, but they feel the desire to, or they may have caught sight of a
figure across a room and felt a tug at their heart. They've lifted the cup and they want to drink from it.
Ace of Swords
East/Spring
The mind awakening for new challenges. This usually indicates that the person's mind is feeling sharper, clearer. They want
to talk, want to discuss or write. The breeze stirs through the trees and the fledgling thinks of trying out its newly feathered
wings. The sword is lifted, and the querent wants to test its edge.
Ace of Pentacles
North/Winter
New luck, health or money for a new "job". There is no desire to burn, or flow or fly; here is a physical need to be
grounded, to do solid work, make, create and touch. Like a seed in the ground, there is a desire to sprout roots and just
become. The pentacle is taken in hand, and, for now, the querent wants only to have it solidly in his pocket.
These are the aces, the raw or initial passion, feelings, thoughts and needs that can be directed into something more. They
represent hope, a possiblity, an action to take. The Querent can use them, or leave them behind. Choose wisely what you
take up from the Magician's table for each has its pitfalls as well as pinnacles.
TWOS
The twos are related to the High Priestess. As such they indicate duality but, more importantly, they indicate instinctual
knowledge. Aces are undirected energy; the twos are, in a sense, the knowledge of what the direction for that energy should
take. Thus:
Two of Wands
Usually a person choosing one wand over another. Wands are passion, and passion is not something that works when split.
It requires a single focus. This card indicates a choice about where you put your energy and passion is to be made, but if
your instincts are right, the choice will be a right one.
Two of Cups
This card of two people looking into each other's eyes is one of the easiest to read - it is recognition of love, of a friend or
soul mate. It predicts that you will find someone who 'knows' you, and you, in turn, will 'know' them. It is a very Romeo &
Juliet card. So, there is the direction for that swelling of emotion within you, toward this other person.
Two of Swords
This is the infamous blindfolded lady with the crossed swords. Crossed swords suggest a clash of ideas or words. The
blindfolded lady, indicating impartiality, cannot uncross the swords, but she keeps them still. This is the knowledge of how
to compromise, keep these two sides in balance and at peace. Note that this is a temporary compromise. The Querent may
be in the middle, or just forced to accept it. Either way, they must be told that it won't last. The direction of your new brain
power here is how to keep these two ideas from fighting, to hold off trouble and make peace.
Two of Pentacles
Standing before the waves of an ocean, a fellow deftly juggles two pentacles. Is the meaning quite clear now? Yes, the
instinctive knowledge of how to juggle finances, a check book, or jobs. As with the swords, you can't keep at it forever, but
it is a good use to put your money or hard work to until your ship comes in. Which is what the background waves are all
about - keep juggling, relief is on its way.
THREES
So at first we had one, indivisible; then it splits into two, mirror images, opposites: two opposing passions, twin emotions,
two ideas, two jobs or finances. The next move, of course, is for the two to create a third. Male and female create a child;
two corners get a third to form a triangle.
Ruling over the threes is the Empress, of course, whose card is all about creation. The child in the womb, the seed in the
ground. So, with the twos, a choice has been made about what use to put this passion, emotion, brainpower, craft. Now we
get the first results of that decision, the initial offspring.
Three of Wands
A man with two wands, holding a third, looks out to sea, waiting. Sometimes there are boats on the horizon. This is the
card of "waiting for the ships to come in". The person has invested their passion in something - a new career, a big move to
a new city (remember wands signify travel as well), maybe they've even thrown their hat into a political ring - and now
something is coming back. It is a card of progress, of the first hint that the dream can be made real. The tests are coming
back, and it looks to be positive. This card also indicates that, like a newly pregnant mother, or a politician hearing that the
first round of votes are for him/her, the Querent might rightly be feeling a little proud, even powerful.
Three of Cups
Three maidens with three overflowing cups celebrate. The creation here, springing from the relationship in the two of cups,
is happiness, togetherness. Two cups pour into a third and it overflows with love and joy, enough for all. This is a card of
parties, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, birthdays. Any time that families get together and reunite in celebration of
something new.
Three of Swords
Ah, the dreaded three of swords. Three swords pierce a heart. Against the background of a storm, it bleeds.
You were warned that the peace established in the two of swords couldn't last. What sharp words or cutting ideas have
created here, not surprisingly, is pain and heartbreak. This card often relates to love-triangles; but remember this is an air
sign, so what the Querent believes to be true was likely due to something they heard wrongly or were falsely told, a wrong
idea they got into their heads. It does not lessen the fact that hurtful words are going to be exchanged.
There is, however, an up side to this card, however bleak. Prior to now, the words and thoughts - possibly poisonous words
and thoughts - have been bottled up. They now come out into the open, the cutting truth. I don't like you, or, I didn't say
that, or, I'm sorry, but it's your best friend I love (ouch!). So, well, now the Querent knows; no more waiting, obsessing,
wondering, worrying. Either blood or poison can drip out, and the Querent can get on with their life. They now know how
things stand and can act on that, instead of on false beliefs, gossip and misconceptions.
Three of Pentacles
A craftsman shows off his work of three pentacles in an arch to a pair of potential patrons. This is the craftsman's card and
it indicates creating something that brings in patronage. The Querent has created, well, more work for himself. So
promising is what the Querent has done with so little, that money, admiration, and more work is coming their way, enough
to get them out of the juggling they were doing in the two of pentacles. Health wise, this card can also indicate positive
results from a new exercise program or therapy.
FOURS
Fours are ruled by the Emperor. Like both the Emperor and his throne they signify a kind of stability, a holding pattern if
you will. For a moment, everything is still, solid, rooted, established. This can be positive, a solid foundation, or negative,
something that refuses to budge or change.
Four of Wands
The ships have come in, and the Querent can sit back and enjoy them. This card, with its four wands holding up garlands,
implies the foundation of a house, literally and figuratively. Whatever the Querent has been building, they have established
it, strong and solid. They can take a moment to admire what they've done, enjoy the first rewards it has brought them, and
bask in their initial success. Sometimes this card suggests marriage; once again, laying the foundation for the future.
Four of Cups
Contrarily, the stillness in the four cups represents stagnation, a status quo in a relationship that brings dissatisfaction and
boredom. A man sitting under a tree with three cups is offered a fourth by a hand from a cloud. This is the "grass is
greener" card. The relationship, once so fresh and exciting, is no longer moving or changing or growing, and the Querent,
depressed and restless, begins to wonder if the grass might not be greener elsewhere.
This card is also about over-indulgence in drink, food, drugs, sex, even internet chat rooms, looking for stimulation. It is all
too easy to turn to such things when depressed or bored. In general, this card is a warning. The Querent might be in a
stagnant relationship, but day-dreaming of others or over indulging is not the way to solve the problem. Stop looking for
ways to escape it, and look, instead, for ways to change it.
Four of Swords
A young man rests on a pallet, three swords above, one under him. Though this card (in the Rider-Waite deck) makes the
young man look dead, it is really only about taking a break. This is the "meditation" card. The card advises the Querent that
they need to get away, rest, recuperate. Especially after the Three of Swords!
The card indicates that the Querent has been facing mental or emotional stress, arguments, misunderstandings or verbal
abuse, or that they're ill or injured. A healing retreat is needed, time to clear the head, heart and soul, or just fix a damaged
body. In this case, the stillness of the "4" is healing and positive. A quiet, unchanging scene is needed.
Four of Pentacles
A man holds tight to his four pentacles in this card. And in this case, the refusal to budge may be damaging. This is the
miser card. Remember how the Querent got more work, money, luck, health in the last card, the Three of Pentacles? Well,
he's holding on tight to what he's got, not sharing it with anyone, not investing it in the future, just holding onto it, trying to
keep it still and unchanging. When this card appears it tells the Querent that they're in a position of status, health, money,
even comfort. Solid, and unchanging. But the Querent is too afraid of losing all this.
The card reminds them to throw their bread upon the waters. Share the wealth; be generous with good luck and good
fortune. A miser lives always in fear, never able to take delight in what they have, or create from it those things worth
having like friends, family, a good name. Relax a little, be less worried about loss of what you have - it's not going
anywhere. Focus, instead, on how to make the best of what you've got while you're around to enjoy it.
FIVES
When trying to read the Fives, think of the Hierophant. The Hierophant represents a teacher, counselor, or priest, someone
who advises people when they're in trouble. Likewise, the Fives are unique cards in that each one seems to pose both a
problem and an answer. After four fairly smooth cards of growth and development, the fives represent the fly in the
ointment. Instability; the changes that make one humble and allow for growth.
Of the question asked of the Hierophant by a troubled supplicant, the problem is real world. The answer, however,
appropriate to the Hierophant, is usually spiritual or at least pragmatic. Understand that all Fives temper the Querent - you
go through the fire, the low points, the hard times, in order to come out stronger.
Five of Wands
Five similar young men with five wands battle among themselves. When energy is put into a project, it can usually develop
and grow easily in the early stages. Like a small company just started, or someone who runs for mayor of a small town. But
when that company gets big enough, or the little mayor wants to be a state representative or senator... now things are not so
easy. There is competition, others with just as much clout, similar ideas, equal energy and focus and drive and ambition.
This is a card predicting conflict and power struggles, smooth sailing meeting choppy waters. Inner doubts and fears will
arise, leading to confusion and panic. And the question it asks is "How can I stand out?" The answer is, ultimately, that one
learns to stand out by entering the fray and sizing up the competition. Only by doing this can the Querent learn how to
change, what to cut away or keep, in order to be unique and succeed. If you fear competition and run from it, you will
never succeed at anything.
Five of Cups
A very well known card; a young man looks down in despair at three spilled cups of wine, never seeing the two still
standing. This is the card of spilled milk, one of the easiest to read. The Querent is obsessing over what is lost, rather than
being glad for what they still have. The Querent might be feeling disappointed in someone for not living up to their
expectations, making them blind to the person's good qualities. Or the Querent themselves did something they now regret,
and they just can't get past it.
The problem, "How do I get past this?" The answer, "Your own blindness is what keeps you from getting past it. Open your
eyes, look around, stop staring at what is wrong and bad and see what is right and good!" A simple but important answer!
Five of Swords
A smirking young man gathers up swords won in battle from two losers. In arguments and battles of ideas there are going
to be times when one just loses or has to surrender. The worst of these is when the winner is an awful person, a bully,
braggart, a cheat, someone who used an unfair advantage to win. But it happens. The problem: "How can I win in an
argument with this person?" The answer/prediction: "You can't. All you can do is not argue." This is the closest to a win
one can come to in this situation. But if the Querent feels they must argue, then they need to be prepared to learn from it,
not allow feelings of failure, anger or blame to overcome them.
Five of Pentacles
Another famous card. Two poor folk sit outside a church with five pentacles on its stained glass window. This is a card that
predicts loss, financial loss, bad luck, a set-back in health. It is a difficult time, as all fives are. "How can I deal with this
loss?" asks the Querent. And the answer is, "By realizing that it is no real loss at all." The Querent must understand that
while they may have lost material things, the spiritual is still with them. Where there is life, there is hope. They should also
be advised that this too will pass. Though it may seem like there is no end in sight, there is. We all go through lean and
lonely times. Things will get better.
SIXES
Sixes are balance and harmony, especially after the upsets of the fives. These cards predict a solution, and not just any
solution; there will be an exchange, a give and take that results in a new equilibrium. It may not last, but for that moment,
everything is stable. With this card, there is an almost "Ah-HA!" of recognition, of understanding in the solution, and more
than a little awe at the symmetry achieved by it.
If you connect the sixes to the Lovers card you'll see how it works. The "love" aspect of the Lovers card is that of
recognition and equilibrium. Like Gemini, you recognize your twin, your soul mate. Maybe you didn't even know how
uneven, how lopsided your life was, but now that you've met this person, you can feel the scales coming into balance. Here
is harmony. Here is the solution.
Six of Wands
The Victory Card: A victorious man on a horse, applauded by all, enters carrying a wand with a laurel wreath. Here is the
conclusion to what happened with the Five of Wands. Competition was fierce, an answer had to be found to make the
Querent stand out, make them different, special. Ah-HA! says the 6 of Wands. The Querent has found (or will find) that
solution. Success, in fact, requires that they be above all others, that they make themselves a champion of the people. Note
the give-and-take common to all 6's. The crowd offers the victor applause. He, in turn, offers them a champion to adore.
For this moment, both are happy, the victor with the adulation, the crowd with their hero.
Six of Cups
Two children among six flowering cups. There is a great deal of rich and complex symbolism in this card, but in a nutshell,
it is a frozen moment of perfect balance, the boy and the girl both touching that one cup with the flower in it. I like to think
of this as taking place in early spring, still cold enough for the girl to wear mittens, but warm enough for the first flowers to
have blossomed. The girl, possibly accepting the flower, looks up and sees the boy, and he, perhaps giving the flower, sees
her as well. Perhaps, on that cup, their hands touch for the first time. It is a charming moment of recognition, of puppy
love. The meaning of this card refers to a moment of nostalgia, of something or someone from our past coming back into
our life. Given an old photo, or an invitation to a school reunion, we get, in return, a memory of harmony. Perhaps we meet
with a friend, relative or teacher we haven't seen in years and the exchange of memories restores to us past love and balance.
We rediscover lost equilibrium and a solution that we could never have found in the present.
Six of Swords
A boat of swords being ferried across a river with a woman as passenger. The classic Rider-Waite meaning is that one is
leaving difficulties behind. A trip or change of scene may be the answer to restoring balance here. But there is more to it
than this. In relation to the mind, ideas and words of the sword suit, this is also about finding a solution to math problems
and brain twisters, not just troubles. The ferryman may signal help here, a silent partner (a reference book or internet
website perhaps?) who helps you row your way toward the other shore...and THERE is the answer, a way to make your
idea, your argument, your formula work smoothly, perfectly, beautifully. Also, of course, a card about trips by boat.
Six of Pentacles
A wealthy man holding scales hands out money to the poor. This card really reflects the idea of all the 6's--how give and
take creates balance and harmony. The man wants to balance the scales, but has one coin too many. By giving it away, he
gets his balanced scales, and the beggar benefits. Thus, the prediction of this card is that money, work or health woes can
be solved by way of a gift, benefit, free promotional items or scholarship. They need to give it away, you can really use it,
so take it. Balance achieved, problem solved on both sides. Alternately, this card can also indicate the opposite as well, the
Querent, if well off, might be reminded that generosity is a good way to solve other problems. Need a tax break? Give to
charity. Two problems solved, harmony restored.
SEVENS
As the fives indicated a particular problem, so do the sevens. The fives were about loss, losing momentum, losing love,
losing an argument, losing money. The question there was, "How do I deal with this loss?" The sevens are about finding
yourself in a situation where you are not in control. Sevens relate to the Chariot, a card about finding and maintaining
complete control and mastery over wild or opposing forces.
If the charioteer lets his horses run where they will, as they will, the chariot will crash. He not only has to have them
completely in hand, but to win in a race or war, he must also control direction and speed. So, too, in life. You need to know
not only how to take control but also how to direct the forces once you have them in hand. Sevens, like fives, are about
overcoming fears and finding a way to succeed in a tough situation. They answer the question, "How do I take control?"
Seven of Wands
A man defends himself with one wand against 6 others. This is the "under siege" card. The stakes are high, and suddenly,
the Querent is under attack; often when they're tired or vulnerable. This is when others look at what you've done and get
jealous or greedy. The Querent is being criticized, maybe someone is trying to take over his project. He's on the defensive.
How can he take back control? The card urges the Querent to stand his ground. Don't give up, don't surrender. If you do,
your enemies will take control and show you no mercy. Fear not, success is near to hand.
Seven of Cups
A man sees seven cups floating on a cloud, each with something enticing rising out of it. This is the "can't make up my
mind" card. Think of a teenage girl who gets three invitations from three popular, seemingly wonderful boys all asking her
to the same dance. She can't say yes to any of them, she can't say no. All she can do is imagine how good each one would
be and wish she didn't have to decide. This is the Seven of Cups. Suddenly, you, the chooser, are not in control. You are in
the power of the choices. And there is one other problem: not all of the choices may be as good as they look. This is a card
of illusions, deceptions. Making a hasty decision, therefore, could be as bad as being unable to make any decision. How to
take control here? Hold out, investigate. Don't let the cups be in control. How ever much pressure there seems to be, don't
let them force you to make a rash decision. Make an informed *and* measured decision instead.
Seven of Swords
A thief sneaks off with 5 out of 7 swords. This is the "Thief" card. It implies that someone is stealing something from you,
your honor, your ideas, your time. They may be spreading gossip about you. How to take control of this situation? You
have to be equally sneaky. Sometimes, to win a race or battle, the Charioteer must direct his horses around instead of
straight on. You may feel like you want to go charging in, be confrontational, but this is not going to work. That is the out-
of-control solution which will allow the thief to play the innocent. To catch a thief, you must be a thief.
Seven of Pentacles
A farmer watches pentacles grow on a tree. Sometimes, there is no way to take control of a situation. The farmer waits for
the fruit on his tree to ripen so he may harvest and sell it; he has very little control over when this will happen. All he can
do is be patient. So, too, with waiting for a job offer or raise, waiting for work to pay off, or a new diet, waiting for lottery
numbers to be read. Sometimes you have to realize that you've done all you can do. It is out of your hands now. All you can
do is wait.
Ultimately, the sevens share that message, the farmer's message: hold out, be patient, don't rush, go around. Be in control of
yourself and you can be in control of this situation.
EIGHTS
Going with the Rider-Waite deck, we'll relate the Eights to Strength. Eights are about moving, taking action, as Strength is
a card of courage and transformation. It's very easy to let things stay as they are inside yourself or without (though, as the
Eights warn, it's easy but damaging). It is much harder to gather up the willpower and mental strength to make a real
change. A scary change. Like the Strength card, it is scary to approach that lion, but you can alter the relationship you have
with it.
Eight of Wands
Eight wands cut across the sky. The power and energy of eight combined with the energy of wands makes this a card of
movement and expansion. There is no fear in the Querent at all! This is the card of a person who, on seeing that lion, says,
"Allow me!", rolls up their sleeves, shoves everyone out of the way, strides up and raps the beast on the nose. "Don't you
try to push me around!" they snap.
A lot of things are going to be happening fast, and the Querent is going to revel in and handle all of them. This will likely
include trips - and the Querent will want to drive or fly him/herself, likely. Fast. No need to slow down or be impatient,
with this card, you can really move, change, do.
Eight of Cups
A man leaves behind eight cups to follow the moon. The movement, or progress in this card is the shedding of old
relationships, old loves, familiar things. The Querent is either disappointed with these familiar things - they are not what
was expected, or hoped for, or the Querent has a crazy new dream calling to them. Their instincts are to follow the dream.
But good idea or not (an inverted card might suggest that it's a bad idea or an illusion), they'll need courage to do this; to
leave all everything known, comfortable and familiar, and go for the unknown. This can be a card of separation or divorce.
And yes, like all Eights this can imply a literal move or trip, especially from an established home to a new, unknown one in
an unknown land.
Eight of Swords
A woman is tied and blindfolded within a cage of swords. This is the "damned if you do, damned if you don't," card. The
Querent is in a situation where they're afraid to move. If they move, they'll get cut. However, the ropes that bind them, the
blindfold over their eyes, are their own fears, keeping them still, immobile. And so the longer they stay, the more they
constrain and entrap themselves. Ever been in a situation where you're afraid to say anything, so afraid that you second
guess yourself, end up saying nothing, tying yourself in knots? But speaking up is going to get you cut to ribbons? That's
this card. The Querent must have the strength to endure the cuts, else they'll stay trapped. They must move, for the longer
they let the situation continue, the worse it will get.
Eight of Pentacles
An apprentice works on eight pentacles. This is the apprentice card. It is a card of starting over, doing something new or
perhaps just expanding. Apprenticeship can be scary or demoralizing, as in all those cliched movies where the Kung Fu
youngster has to carry water and sweep floors before he can do the real stuff. Similarly, this card predicts, if not a tough
time, a time of learning and mistakes, doubts and just hard work. The Querent needs to be told to keep up their courage, to
either make this move into a new job or to stick with it if they've already made the move. Being an apprentice (or an
apprentice again) will teach (or re-teach) them how to persevere.
The message of all Eights is that movement, a change of place, home, job or situation can lead to an internal
transformation. All that is needed is the strength to go through with it.
NINES
Nine is a card of completion (so is Ten, but we'll get to that). Like the Hermit, who connects to the nines, it is a card where
something is finished and the person in turn steps back to look on what he's done, earned, or gained. Nines are among the
most powerful cards, usually granting the Querent what it is they, like the Hermit, are seeking.
Nine of Wands
A wounded man holding a wand stands guard over the other eight wands. Think of this card as the "staircase" card; you
climb flight after flight of stairs to get to the top; but finally stop, panting, and wonder "Will I ever get to the top?"
What the Querent seeks most, leadership, a successful career, is right there. They've only to shine the Hermit's light upward
to see it. They might feel tired, wary and on guard; but remind them that they have reserves of energy and strength for that
final push. Completion of all they've worked for is right there, all they need do is go for it!
Nine of Cups
An innkeeper sits before nine cups set out for guests. This is perhaps THE best card in the minors. It is sometimes called
the "wish" card. What you have an appetite for you will be given to you; your wish will come true. On the more emotional
level, relationships are loving and complete. Creativity is at a high, friendships and emotions are good. It is like walking
into an inn and finding that the innkeeper has already filled his chalices with the best wine for you and your friends. The
joy and camaraderie the Querent seeks he will surely find.
Nine of Swords
A man wakes from a nightmare, nine swords on the wall. It can be a good thing to find what you seek, except when it
comes to ideas, words or problems. Find too many of them and they will overwhelm you. We all know this card, it is the
one where we wake up at night and go over our troubles, problems, worries, thoughts, what we said, what others said. The
Querent must be told that while their problems may be real, they're blowing them out of proportion, making them worse,
nightmarish. They are spending too many sleepless nights alone and awake with these words, ideas, problems. What they
are really seeking is to wake from this bad dream - which they can do by realizing that it is a bad dream - most of it is in
their head.
Nine of Pentacles
A woman in her private garden watches over nine "blossoming" pentacles. Like the Hermit, the woman here has retreated
from the world, but unlike him it is into a private world of pleasure. This card signifies a lucky windfall or payment for
work well done, enough to buy what you most want. It can also indicate a retreat to a spa or one of those beautiful bed &
breakfast inns where you're pampered and waited on hand and foot. Everything is lovely, luxurious. The physical things the
Querent has been seeking, things they wanted but were unable to buy, they will finally be able to have.
TENS
As the aces were the pure, elemental spark of the suit, the tens are the element of the suit complete. Not as in the nines,
which are physical completion, but in a transcendent fashion. It is the ultimate good or bad of that element.
Ten of Wands
A man carries ten heavy wands on his back. This is a card that says that the Querent has used up all the energy they started
with at the ace. They don't feel that creative, driving force any more. The image on this card implies that the Querent has
complete control of all the many things he wanted control over. He is the leader, the boss. But this means that all the
burdens are his as well. He's trying to do everything, and it leaves him drained. Advise your Querent to delegate, to put
down some burdens and find his energy again.
Ten of Cups
This is a permanence of joy, love, friendship. The kind of family we all work to create, a family we can trust, rely on, one
that's there for us in the best and worst times. This is the family you look forward to seeing during holidays and on special
occasions. The ones that come running out to greet you when you arrive at their house, smiles of joy on their faces. The
Querent can be told that this family - or family of friends - can or is theirs.
Ten of Swords
A man dead with ten swords in his back. It is a nasty looking card. Sometimes everything just... goes... wrong. And this is a
card that lets the Querent know that, yes, things are as bad as he fears. The troublesome swords can't get much worse than
this, with bad things said about the Querent, perhaps even the ruin of their lives. But as the fellow in the card indicates, the
swords have done their worse. You can't be more dead. It is over.
Ten of Pentacles
This is the pinnacle of prosperity, material goods that last instead of being temporary; this is a family home bought and
paid for, a business you can pass onto your children. The Querent might find themselves the lucky recipients of a trust fund
or lottery money big enough to last a lifetime. It may not be a huge lump sum, but it is something that can be relied on for a
good, long while, or something to be passed on to the children, a family inheritance, or just a special, valuable item to pass
on.
COURT CARDS
The most troublesome cards in the deck are the court cards. They are very hard to read in the context of a spread. For
example, if you get the Queen of Cups in the "Health" position in a spread, what does that mean? (How would I read this?
Alternative medicine, likely dispensed by a new, female healer that the Querent is going to or should go to). I'll be going
through each court card in its own thread.
I hope we can all get talking about these cards and find a way to solidify them in our minds! So, first, what are court cards?
There are four, and even these are confusing. Rider-Waite style, they are Pages, Knights, Queens, Kings. Crowley style,
they are Princesses, Princes, Queens, Knights.
Does this make a difference? Some say yes, very much so. They argue that in Crowley, there are an equal number of
male/females, and that the seated Queen indicates the "Goddess power" whereas the active Knight indicates the "God"
power. Unlike the more hierarchical situation in the Rider-Waite deck where you have a seated King ruling at the top,
unequal with the seated queen and unmoving compared to the knight he commands.
In either case, certain things we need to assume.
1) Court cards almost always indicate people. Someone in the Querent's life (past or present), about to come into the
Querent's life or the Querent themselves.
2) Yes, Court cards can be symbolic. For example, Pages can indicate a "message," Knights a "movement" or a "trip." It
depends on the reading and reader. But in most cases, the cards are likely to be people, not symbols.
3) Zodiac symbols (designations) are a good way to tell what kind of person each court card is. For example, that the
Queen of Wands is a Leo. But which card is which Zodiac symbol can differ from deck to deck. So examine images
carefully to see which card is which Zodiac sign in your particular deck. The pentacle court card which has a field of wheat
in it (for example) is undoubtedly Virgo, whether it is King, Queen or Knight.
PAGES
The first court cards are the Pages/Princesses. It is always best to imagine them as young, and with a letter or scroll in hand
or on their person. The element of the pages is "Earth" indicating something young, growing, a seed planted. So the Page
of Wands would be "Earth of Fire" - the seed of fire, so to speak. The spark. Pages most often stand for children, though
they can also be said to be the "Fool's" alter ego. So, an adult who is child-like enough might also be a page. The Querent,
if starting something very new and fresh might also be said to be "The Page" - in this case, a kind of apprentice. Deck-
wise, if a Page, they can be male or female. If a Princess, likely a female young person; the prince will be the male young
person.
When no children seem to be involved (the person you're reading for is childless, has no friends with kids, etc.), then the
Pages can indicate that the Querent is about to receive a message. The purpose of a page, after all, is to deliver messages.
In this case:
Page of Wands
A message, possibly from far away, about a trip, career move, leadership position or something spiritual/philosophical.
Page of Cups
A message of love, romance, heart-break or family.
Page of Swords
A message relating to a problem either solved or ending badly, or a message that gives one an idea or solution. Sometimes
about illness. Sometimes rumor or gossip - in which case, check it out carefully, it might be false.
Page of Pentacles
A message about money, luck or a good, unexpected turn in health.
...
As for what kind of kids these pages are:
Page of Wands
This is a kid that never stays still, runs all over the place, always wants to go outside and play, is always getting into
strange places, climbing trees, wanting to go on trips. He's never home for dinner on time. Personality wise, however, he is
usually a delightful child, happy, fun-loving, charismatic. He loves being the center of attention and the leader; however,
and you might have to watch that he doesn't bully other kids.
Page of Cups
This is the daydream kid; head in the clouds, rarely paying attention. They've got a great imagination and love telling or
being told stories, but they're also overly sensitive; very kind and sweet, they'll bring you a flower, try to rescue sick birds
or abandoned kittens, take very seriously the death of a goldfish. When sad, they're the saddest kid you ever saw. When
happy, they're positively blissful.
Page of Swords
You can't shut up this kid. "Why? Why? Why?" he/she's always asking. And even more alarming, anything they hear,
they'll repeat, just blurt it out in front of people. They'll go up to Aunt Hazel and say, "Are you carrying a baby? Mommy
says it looks like you are...." On the positive side, this kid could be quite a brain, good at puzzles, quick to learn. And they
already know how to use the computer better than you do. Likeable, but also the most aggravating of kids because
whatever you tell them to do, they'll argue about it. You have to watch that they don't become "know-it-alls" or tattletales.
Page of Pentacles
This is the kid who likes to make things. He/she is always playing in the mud with their truck, making sand castles,
bringing home caterpillars and lizards and frogs. They like to hammer together bird houses, help build a tree house. And
they'll take it upon themselves to do extra chores for extra money. They'll deliver papers, water lawns, walk pets. They're
very frugal with that money, keeping it in the piggy bank and counting it out often to see how much they've got.
Personality wise, they may seem a bit too serious and sober for their age, a little too practical perhaps, though often
generous and good hearted.
KNIGHTS
Knights or princes are the spirit of the teenager, all about changes. Knights are never still; as the pages/princesses suggest
messages, the knights/princes suggest movement, travel.
Elementally, they are Air moving and flowing like that element. As a person, they're likely to stand for a young adult or
someone who acts very like a teen. Their beliefs are purer than of an adult, less cynical and more fierce. In this they are
most knight like: powerfully, almost unquestioning loyal to a kingdom or cause.
As travel:
Knight of Wands
An exciting trip, and likely a long one to an exotic place. Likely a trip by motorcycle, car, bus or train.
Knight of Cups
Travel to lake, river or sea, maybe a day on a boat.
Knight of Swords
Travel by air.
Knight of Pentacles
Travel on foot, hiking, walking, cycling.
...
The types of teenager-like people they can be:
Knight of Wands
I like to think of this teen as the "tilting at windmills" Knight. Charismatic, the kind of youth who never slows down, who
always goes for grand gestures. This is the party "teen", and we're talking big, wild parties; the kind of youth who loves his
car and seems to live in it, driving everywhere, picking up his friends as he goes. He's popular, the center of attention, the
leader who comes up with crazy ideas. He'll be voted class president or Prom King, and is likely an aggressive player on
the football team. On the negative side, this teen can be headstrong, bossy or a bully. A little narcissistic, he's not always
sensitive to others feelings. Don't expect him to be reliable or on time. Fiercely loyal to his friends, and his religion
whether that is sports, a philosophy or church.
Knight of Cups
A knight in the truest sense, this is the knight of love, the Romeo. The teen we all know and love; dreamy, sensitive,
moody, "deep." He plays music, spends long hours alone in his room with the shades drawn, he writes dark, meaningful
poetry. He will fall in love, passionately, profoundly and he and his love will be inseparable. On the negative side, he
should be watched for depression which can be very real. Though moody, he's fiercely loyal to anyone he loves, including
family.
Knight of Swords
Too smart for his own good, this young man is also too talkative. He's engages in flame wars on a dozen internet chat sites,
he questions his teachers, he likes to play devil's advocate and argues with his friends and family just for the sake of
arguing. This sharp mind and sharp tongue can, in the negative, lead him to spread gossip or nasty rumors just to see what
will happen. If there's anything this knight will fight and die for, it is for freedom of information and speech.
Knight of Pentacles
This teen appreciates the very best things money can buy - not only because he likes such things, but because he doesn't
like to stand out. He's got projects going, jobs on the side, he fears not having what others have, not fitting in. In
comparison to the Knight of Wands, however, this teen likes being at home. He needs to have his own room or secret place,
and woe to anyone who goes into that room or changes it in any way. This teen has his own organization system for
everything. On the negative side, this teen can be far too solitary, too concerned with perfection, what he does or does not
have, or earning a place of respect. Fear of failure or competition or standing out may keep him from leaving his room. He
values and protects beautiful things and is a loyal employee if treated right.
QUEENS
The element of Queens is water and, not surprisingly, they are a reflection of the Empress. In this they signify the creative
force. One way to think of the court cards is this: The Kings are the motivating force (Fire = the sun waking up the sleeping
Earth). The queens are the ones who make it real (water = rain bringing forth life from the earth). The Knights spread the
idea of the Kingdom (wind = spreading the seeds). And the Pages, of course, are the fertile soil in which all of this can
grow.
When Queens appear they signal a time of growth and development, a time when the Querent is making things real. For
example:
Queen of Wands
Developing a trip or making real a career, especially one in acting or leadership.
Queen of Cups
Developing a romance, psychic powers, or the growth of a family.
Queen of Swords
Developing a speech, making real a story, working on a debate, or just spreading news.
Queen of Pentacles
Making real a business, altering a work situation, or developing an exercise or health plan.
...
As always, Court Cards are more likely to be actual people. The queens are adult women, often women in charge:
Queen of Wands
They light up a room when they enter; they radiate warmth and energy, humor and spirit. Very often they're in
entertainment, as actresses or singers. They can also be leaders and activists. Men and often other women hover round
them like moths to a flame, and can certainly be burned by their hot, passionate, restless natures. Not that these women
can't be gentle; they love children and are almost over-active participants in the lives of their kids, making costumes for
plays, coaching teams, etc. These are very creative women, with boundless energy to make, do, travel, entertain. The
problem, of course, is that these Queens have trouble stepping out of the spotlight. They can overwhelm or intimidate, be
bossy and overbearing. At their best, however, they are an inspiration to their family and friends, and often to admiring
strangers as well.
Queen of Cups
Often a healer, counselor or psychic, this is a woman who seems to know what's wrong even before you open your mouth.
Call her the emotional fix-it woman, but she seems to have exactly the right solution to problems relating to home, friends,
love. Sometimes she is shy, self-effacing, you might not even notice her; other times she can be a little scary, dreamy,
mysterious, a creative storyteller. Affectionate and loving, she is a "mom's mom" always there to hug, heal and bake
cookies for her children. Her intuition is uncanny, her temper...well, it runs very deep and you don't ever want it turned
against you. Talk about scary. Unfortunately, this is also a queen who can suffer from female hormonal problems,
depression, moodiness, alcoholism, drug addiction, psychological problems.
Queen of Swords
She's a walking encyclopedia. Any information you want, this woman has it, and as such she can mingle with almost
anyone. She can talk science with the scientists, history with the historians, literature with the poets. She knows obscure
facts, strange tid-bits, and she seems to love nothing better than to pour it all out, give it away like gifts to help people. In
fact this woman is likely to be involved in a job that includes talking: psychology, politics, radio, or information gathering,
like the sciences. She absorbs information, and is able to relate it back succinctly, clearly, simply, so everyone can
understand and use it; men who aren't threatened by her (and many are!) gather round to listen to her beautiful voice,
fascinated. You can always pick out this woman in a crowd as she is always stylish in her own, unique way; almost
eccentric in dress. The problem? These queens can be the most "queen-like." Aloof, even cold. They believe the right facts
can fix any problem, and will offer that instead of sympathy or warmth. They also like to know everything, and are likely
to listen in on conversations, read diaries. Worse, they might well spread what they've learned thinking it will do good.
They mean well, but their need to know and solve problems often outweighs other considerations.
Queen of Pentacles
This is the practical, down-to-earth woman. An enthusiastic outdoors woman, she's always encouraging friends and family
to exercise. She also owns her own successful business. Her accounting is scrupulous, but that doesn't mean she's afraid to
spend. She loves beautiful things and has an artist's eye. Her home is impeccably decorated with paintings, furniture, and
trinkets. Her garden is also beautifully maintained. Tasteful is the perfect word for her; likewise in her dress, jewelry and
make-up. As in work, nothing less than giving her all to her family will do for the Queen of Pentacles. She wants them to
have the best so they can succeed. But this can put a lot of pressure on them. The queen does not understand that buying a
child a Steinway piano will not make them Beethoven; also, this Queen's pragmatism, her dislike of anything strange or
distasteful, may exclude anything unique or imaginative - solutions as well as people. Her children or partner feel that they
can't be themselves and still be loved.
KINGS
Kings. Although they come last, they really should come first, as Kings are where the Court Cards start. They are the fire -
their element - the passion, the driving force. This is why Crowley has them as Knights instead, riding on horseback (rather
than sitting passively on a throne), filled with energy, moving, leading. Kings are related to the Emperor, and like him they
are planners, motivators, commanders, and creators; the one who rallies everyone together to form the kingdom. (Think
Henry V.) The Queen is the one who will make it real, and the Knight/Prince will take it beyond the castle walls. But
without the King, it won't happen at all.
Thus, Kings in a spread can indicate motivation, a beginning or start of something.
King of Wands
The planning of a great trip, the idea for some grand new career, being motivated to go into politics or take charge.
Depending where it is in the spread, it can indicate that the Querent has decided to take command, to overthrow the old
with his new, bold ideas.
King of Cups
The decision to start a new relationship may indicate a man deciding to propose or just finally motivating himself to
approach a special someone. This is a new love, but it is a mature love, one that is determined. Can also indicate a man
motivated to be a new and better provider, father and husband.
King of Swords
Tossing out a new idea, getting thoughts on paper, brainstorming. The ability to see problems objectively and find new and
better solutions.
King of Pentacles
Drawing up plans for a new business, new thoughts on how to make money or craft something. Perhaps building a new
house.
...
The thing to remember with the Kings is that while they are powerful motivators, they are still "in the crown" - in the head.
They can move mountains with their enthusiasm and energy and light a fire under almost anything. But they can't make it
real all by themselves.
Like all court cards, the King cards are most likely to be people. These might be men the Querent knows or the Querent
himself if he's an adult male. It may signify the kind of man he is, or the kind of man he is at this time or in this
circumstance.
All Kings have high aspirations, they dream of having the best "kingdom" in the land. And they expect loyalty, especially
from family and friends. They are men of influence, and leadership; others come to them for advice. They can be stubborn,
absolutely sure that they are right.
King of Wands
Call him "The Preacher." His dream kingdom is a philosophy. He fills a room when he walks in, expansive, full of energy,
charisma, fun. You know this man; he's the motivational speaker, the charismatic church leader, the warm politician, the
bullying coach who turns losers into winners. He loves danger, adventure, challenges. A great innovator, he can turn a
company around, with employees working overtime to please him. This is Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Henry V. He
always has to lead the charge. He hasn't friends so much as worshippers; people either love him or hate him, and the same
goes for his family. Not that he doesn't love his family; he fell in love with his wife at first sight and wooed her till she
loved him back; and he's great with kids. No dad was ever so inventive or fun. But he fully expects his family to come with
him, wherever he goes - like an impromptu African Safari - support whatever he does. If they don't, his other side can come
to the surface, one that is jealous, impatient, tyrannical. It is not surprising that sometimes his wife or children will rebel
against him.
King of Cups
Call him "The Godfather". A kinder, gentler, more loving man you'll never meet. His "kingdom" is his family, and his one
dream is to be sitting at the head of a huge table filled with kin, kids, grand kids, serving up food to them all. His family
comes first; for them he'll work, sacrifice, do just about anything; and, yes, like the "Godfather" he will consider doing
terrible things to you if you cause grief to any member of that family.
More likely to be a chef, bookstore owner, museum curator, decorator or restorer than a Godfather, this King is a historian,
an old fashioned man with quaint, old fashioned ideas. He'll motivate the neighborhood to restore old buildings, to be more
friendly, neighborly and polite. Very like the Queen of Cups, however, he's too soft and sentimental. No matter how
prodigal the son, this father will always bail the kid out. About his family, it is almost impossible to make him see reason.
King of Swords
Call him "The Judge". His kingdom is the kingdom of high ideals. Loving, friendly, but distant, the one thing everyone
says about this man is "He's Fair." Likely a lawyer, judge, musician, politician or designer, he is a patient, careful man, with
very high ideals. Here is a man of eloquence, so good with words and debate that he can easily see the other side of every
argument. This does not keep him from his own strong beliefs, beliefs which he expects his family and friends to adhere to.
Not that he isn't a good father; he can be kind, playful, a loving and faithful husband. He treats his wife and kids fairly,
hearing them out, acknowledging when they are right. But if he is against child labor, and won't wear certain shoes to
protest it, no one in his family can wear those shoes either. And he'll be bitterly disappointed in them if they do. Unlike the
King of Cups, this King does not put "Family first, right or wrong." Ideals come first, and he can be unforgiving of the
family member who is weak or more "human" than he. He is willing to go on hunger strikes, fight or die for these high
minded ideals. He will not budge when it comes to upholding them, not even for his nearest and dearest.
King of Pentacles
Call him the "Tough Old Farmer" and his Kingdom is his "business" or farm. Proud and self-reliant, this respected man is
likely a civil servant, architect, engineer, manager, farmer or, surprisingly, entertainer. Wherever he is, he worked hard to
be in charge and in charge he intends to stay. Although he can seem cold and aloof, he can also be strangely charming and
funny, telling the most amusing tales at the dinner table. And he is, underneath it all, kind and loyal. If you need help, he
will help and never ask for repayment. But if you help him, he'll repay you as soon as he can; he doesn't like being
beholden to anyone. He will always provide for his family, do his best for them, stick by them, and expects them to be
equally responsible, hardworking and disciplined. Much like his queen, he hates being embarrassed and has a hard time
forgiving any one who causes him embarrassment, be they family, friends or enemies. Likely, no one he cares about will
ever be told that he loves them; the best they'll get out of this King is "I'm proud of you." Which, from him, is his highest
compliment.