The
Minor Arcana.
Once upon a time, when wise men of the king's court sought the keys to
the esoteric world of THE ORACLE, the Tarot is believed to have only consisted
of the Minor Arcana. These 22 cards dealt with the soul's progress and
development through each life and were considered to be the only ones needed.
As life became more complicated, the Minor Arcana was added to portray
the more mundane side of life. The
Earth's people had begun to apply more emphasis and worry to their everyday life
and the Tarot reflects that. In our time, the Minor Arcana has become a
necessity in readings that do not solely involve the spiritual aspect of path
working. The Minor Arcana also
allows us to see how the mundane aspects of our lives affect us on a spiritual
level. Pay particular
attention the way the Minor Arcana Cards in a spread are affected by the Major
Arcana Cards that fall around them.
So
without further ado...
Ace
of Wands: The
beginning of new things. Infancy. A new bud emerging to blossom. This could
indicate a new job, a new home or a new way of life. This card frequently
surfaces to represents birth, either of a child, a plan or a lifestyle. Someone
may present you with a new and exciting idea, plan or project. This is the time
to say YES!
Ace
of Wands Reversed: Whoops!
What looked like it was going to be a sure thing sort of petered out. The Ace of
Wands reversed tells us that a project is not going as swimmingly as expected.
It may have taken off like gangbusters, but it will fast run out of steam and
should be discarded. Perhaps you do not have the support you need to boost this
idea or maybe the time simply isn't right. Regardless, it would be foolish to
continue putting energy into this situation.
Two
of Wands:
Master of all he surveys. This card usually shows a man standing on a
tower or castle, looking out over a great expanse, holding the world in his
hand. The Two of Wands tells us that partnerships will be very effective on the
business front. It is representative of negotiations and solid ideas flowing
between two partners. Success in all things involving business or money is
assured. If you are looking for financial advice of backing for a project, you
will receive it. In any case, help is on the way.
The
Two of Wands Reversed: Be
careful. The mutual partnership described in the upright position has gone sour.
Someone may be out to take advantage of you. A partnership is not advisable at
this time. Best to keep things to yourself for a while longer. Read all
documents and contracts very carefully before signing and make certain you are
dealing with the right person before making any commitments. Ensure that
everything is spelled out to the letter in black and white. Your words could be
used against you later. Careful planning is essential at this time. Cover your
backside any way you can.
Three
of Wands
: This is one of the interesting
cards in the Tarot that can have two very distinct meanings depending on how you
perceive the picture on the card. In most decks, a man stands looking off to sea
(very similar to the 2 of Wands, in fact), watching boats on the water. Now for
the big question. Are the boats coming into the harbor or leaving the land? This
card map be read as someone "waiting for their ship to come in" and
finally seeing it on the horizon or as someone who has done their job well and
have sent the laden ships off on their journey to prosperous business ventures.
Both are encouraging interpretations. This card, either way, indicates that
business ventures will be prosperous. You will be rewarded for the patient
planning and correct use of skills cultivated with the 2 of wands. You have
performed well and now you can sit back and wait for the proceeds to pour in.
Three
of Wands Reversed: Be
careful! Have you checked everything? Now is not the time to blow off the safety
inspections. Make certain that everything is in order and there is no room for
error. Being too prideful or egotistic at this time could result in failure. If
this project goes down, guess who is going to get blamed?
You!
Four
of Wands: There.
At last the seeds planted in the 2 and 3 have come into manifestation.
You are being present with cause for great celebration and happiness. The
harvest is in. There is joy and an overwhelming sense of relief in the home
after having patiently waited through the lean times. A peaceful and relaxed
atmosphere prevails. Financial security has come and contentment reigns in the
home.
Four
of Wands Reversed:
This
is such a good card that even reversed, it still brings happiness. There is joy
and contentment, but look for strings that may be attached. Still, the happiness
is evident, but it may be more short lived than when in the upright position.
This card can be best described as "a nice weekend" You can party and
smile and relax for now, but on Monday it's back to the grindstone.
Five
of Wands:
This card is usually showing a group of young men who are engaged in what
can range from friendly competition to outright battle. Perhaps everyone had
just a tad bit too much celebration in the 4 of wands and now tempers are a
little frayed. Maybe someone began to wonder who was going to clean up the mess
from the party. This card represents agitation, irritation, and competition,
basically a good round of one-upmanship. The energies around you at this time
may be frustrating and tiresome. No one seems to want to co-operate and everyone is getting on everyone else's nerves. If you want to
be the arbitrator and try to put the situation into clear and logical order, you
can try to do just that. If you aren't up for such a task, go to bed, pull the
covers over your head and hide until the 6 of wands manifests.
5
of Wands Reversed: Harmony,
co-operation and generosity are now at hand. People are working well together
now and if there is friction, it is only friendly bantering and debating.
Projects will be completed successfully with everyone working together. In fact,
people may be friendly to the point of causing you to wonder what they're up to.
Don't look a gift horse in the mouth, pardner. They really are just being nice.
No strings are attached. Enjoy it while it lasts.
Six
of Wands:
The victory parade. You are going to hear that you have "won"
in a particular situation. You have reason to be proud. You have worked hard and
now you will receive the honor that is due to you. If you have not yet seen
success, hang in there. It's just over the horizon. If you give up now, you'll
be sorry. Kick into reserve fuel and go for the gusto.
Six
of Wands Reversed:
NOTHING
seems to go right. Every direction you turn, you seem to run into a brick wall.
The battle is going to be a little harder to win that when this card is upright,
but by no means have you lost. You may need to reorganize plans or even find a
different approach. Don't let a prideful attitude keep you from doing what you
know you must do. You need to clear your head and let off some tension. Take a
break from the situation and you will see it more clearly.
Seven
of Wands:
Although you are being attacked from all sides, you are more than capable
of holding your own. You are in a strong position to defend your beliefs and no
one can gain advantage over you unless you allow them to do so. You really do
have the upper hand. Just make sure you have the stamina to keep up the pace and
you will be successful. Handle one problem at a time.
Seven
of Wands Reversed:
You
feel that your stamina is weakening and you can't take much more of this ongoing
assault. Even though you are tired, you have the inner strength to see this
problem through. Expect a second wind soon to keep you going. Remember the
counsel of the upright 7 of wands: One problem at a time! You don't have to
solve everything at once. Prioritize and knock the opposition out one by one.
Eight
of Wands:
Finally things are flowing smoothly.
Affairs are now moving in the correct direction by their own momentum and
you can rest for a bit. You have done well and will be rewarded with
satisfactory conclusions. The arrows are on their way to the bullseye.
Eight
of Wands Reversed: Things
are not flowing as smoothly as they could be. There are still a few bumps in the
road that need to be smoothed over, but you are not in as defensive of a
situation as in the 7 of wands. Things need to remain very steady at this time.
Changes should be gradual. This is not the time for emotional outbursts or
trying to wield power. Gently mold the clay into what you want it to be.
Nine
of Wands:
Guarding the fort against enemies real and imagined. This card means that
you are back into a defensive
position. This is a sticky area because your
insecurity may be unwarranted. But, as they say, just because you're
paranoid doesn't mean the monsters
aren't after you. You are prepared for attack and,
if it comes, you will be successful in protecting your interests because
of your foresight. However, if the plot against you is imagined,
you may be wasting your energy.
It's for you to decide to what degree you will remain on red alert.
Nine
of Wands Reversed: In
this case, it would be a good idea to keep your back to the wall. The paranoia
that was evident in the upright position is definitely warranted in the
reversed. Be certain that no one creeps up behind you and undermines your best
laid plans. Do not allow yourself to be caught unprepared and
defenseless. Plan now for complications and be pleased if they don't
occur.
Ten
of Wands:
You have been carrying a heavy load, physically or mentally, but now the
end of the road is in sight. Soon you will be able to rest from your
responsibilities and have a break
from tension. The question to ask, is how did you happen to get such a heavy
burden in the first place? Did you bring it on yourself by
biting off more than you could chew or allowing someone to take advantage
of you? The completion of the ten shows
that, if you choose, you are now free to end
this cycle of oppression and move on to the next lesson. If you are trying to
martyr yourself, just pick up that
load and heft it onto your back where it was before. There will always be plenty
of slackers who are more than willing to add a little more to the load if you
let them. Get out from under now while you can or stop complaining about how
heavy it is.
The
Ten of Wands Reversed:
Either you don't have your bundle tied correctly, or you're headed up the
wrong road or you're carrying something you shouldn't be carrying in the first
place. Regardless, the sticks are
slipping out all over the place and you're not getting to where you’re headed.
Time to evaluate. Are you sure this is your load to carry?
Can you rearrange this situation to make it easier if it is
indeed something you must endure? Are you still going in the right
direction? Can you still see where
you're headed or has the burden slipped over your eyes so that you can no longer
focus on your destination? Visualize your goal, evaluate how many of the
complications you are experiencing are real and how many are self-manifested,
then shed the unnecessary weight.
Ace
of Cups:
As with all of the aces, the Ace of Cups brings new beginnings. Because
cups are representative of love and emotion, this card ushers in a time of
happiness, emotional fulfillment and L-O-V-E. It map be the start of a
new love affair, a rekindling of an old love or feeling a rush of emotion for
the people in your circle of family and friends. If you have been feeling
emotionally out of whack, this card will bring you back into balance again.
Ace
of Cups Reversed: When
reversed, all the stuff in the cup, runs out of the cup. This card means that
you are emotionally off balance. You are ignoring the love you should be tending
to and putting too much emphasis on the wrong things in life. You
are a self-centered, egotistical, selfish pain in the butt (at least at
this point in your life). You need to pull your head out of...the sand and pay
attention to the needs of the people around you or you are going to lose them.
Two
of Cups:
This card is so sweet you may need an insulin injection after drawing it.
Two people are working together in perfect love, harmony and co-operation. Their
relationship is very karmic, meaning that they feel that they have known each
other forever. This may not be a romantic involvement, but a very deep
friendship instead. Either way, it is a joining and partnership that is well
blessed and brings happiness to both parties.
Two
of Cups Reversed:
A relationship that was quite close is very off balance. There has been
an insignificant tiff that has snow-balled into an out and out battle. It may be
necessary to give the situation a great deal of thought before taking action to
correct it. Both parties need to cool off and gain a perspective. Try seeing the
other person's point of view instead of only your own. Perhaps you need to admit
your part in this problem and share with the other person your desire to put
things right. This relationship is too special to lose and you both know it.
Stop being so obstinate, get together and work this out.
Three
of Cups: The
party card. This is a time for celebration. Something is definitely happening
that will bring joy: A wedding, a baby, a promotion or other celebratory event.
If you haven't heard the news yet, something good is coming up. This card may also indicate that you are surrounded by a
strong support system of good and reliable friends and/or co-workers.
Three
of Cups Reversed:
Something that you anxiously awaited did not manifest. It may have seems
like a sure thing, but fell through at the last minute. The situation may have
turned around and what you thought would be a wonderful thing turned out,
instead, to be disappointing. Stop brooding! This is not the time for self-pity.
You need to regroup your energy, cut your losses and move on to the "next
big thing". Don't let this setback break your stride or get you down.
Four
of Cups:
Poor, poor pitiful you. Is there anybody in the world who has things as
badly as you do? This is the card of self-pity and poutiness. Pick up your lip,
kid or you’re gonna step on it. This
card shows someone with three full cups, another being presented by an ethereal
hand from heaven and still this guy isn't happy. Finish up your pity party and
get back into life again. This behavior isn't helping anybody. You are acting
like a spoiled brat because you can't have your way. Boo Hoo.
Four
of Cups Reversed:
Now, that's better. You've brushed off your butt, wiped your tears and
can see that there's a whole big world out there waiting for you. Look for
exciting opportunities to come your way now that your vision is not blinded by
the tears. Be patient and count
your blessings. Be thankful for
what you have and stop brooding over what you feel you have lost.
Five
of Cups:
Through the indulgent, self-pitying attitude of the 4 of cups, you have
lost something that was very special to you. You cannot change the past, no
matter how much you wish that you could. The words have been spoken, the actions
have been taken and now you have to set about atoning for what was done.
Although you feel a great deal of turmoil, the situation is not as bad as
you think. Still, work is going to need to be done to bring yourself back into
balance. This card usually shows someone "crying over the spilt milk"
from three overturned cups without seeing that there are two full cups behind
him. TURN AROUND! All is not lost.
Think things through very carefully and see what you can do to right the
situation. As with the lesson of the 4 of cups, be grateful for what you have
and put energy into that.
The
Five of Cups Reversed:
Thank goodness! A situation that you thought was a disaster turned out to
be not half as bad as you expected. This could mean that what looked to be a
curse was a blessing in disguise. An ending resulted in a wonderful beginning.
Good news should be coming in that could change many things. Have courage!
The worst has passed.
Six
of Cups:
The nostalgia card. This card frequently appears when a person will be
having contact with someone they have not heard from or been with in quite some
time. This could be an actual visit or a phone call or letter. It represents
going back to your roots, back home, in some way or other. It could also mean
that other surrounding cards could be activated by something in the past. For
example, someone you know from the past could bring you good news or help you
get a job or a new home. In some way, an influence from the past is felt.
Six
of Cups Reversed:
Reversed, this card means that you may be obsessed with the past. Things
are ever changing and you cannot base your life on events and experiences from
the past. It's time to come out yesterday and live for today. You cannot undo
things already done, but you can face the future with a responsible and receptive
attitude. If you are constantly looking over your shoulder at what's behind you,
you are not going to see where you are going.
Seven
of Cups:
Talk about Let's Make a Deal! Opportunities are popping up all over, but
some are good and some are not so great. The problem is, they may be concealed
by a curtain so you can’t tell which is which. This is the card of the
gambler. It is best to narrow down
your choices and use your own good judgment. Are you building castles in the
sky? Go for the sure thing unless you feel especially lucky.
The
Seven of Cups Reversed:
Although you may be feeling a little insecure, you have made the right
decision. This was not the best time to take a chance and by putting your money
on a sure thing, you have protected your interests wisely. You will soon be
given a sign that what you have done was both noble and correct action.
Eight
of Cups:
This card represents somewhat of the opposite of the previous card in
that it counsels you to give up the assurances and niceties of your life and
travel to the mountain to seek the truth. You have been so wrapped up in
material and mundane concerns that you have become spiritually impoverished.
This does not necessarily mean you should sell your microwave and
blaze a trail East to sit at the feet of the Dahli Lama. It can simply
mean that you need to allow time in your life for quiet meditation, reconnecting
with your inner self and rediscovering who YOU really are.
Rest from the tensions of life for even a few minutes a day and soon you
will feel more relaxed and fulfilled. If you are experiencing dissatisfaction,
it is because you are too wrapped up in the world. Stop saying you don't have
the time and make the time for healing your spirit. It has taken quite a
beating.
Eight
of Cups Reversed:
So you've decided to stay with your nose to the grindstone, killing off
what's left of your spiritual self in pursuit of the almighty dollar and all it
brings. Suit yourself. But like my ol' grandmammy used to say, an empty cup
cannot quench anyone's thirst. Yes, you do have the time. Close your eyes, relax
and find that wonderful person who is inside of you. Remember him/her? It's been
a long time, but they're in there
somewhere and I'm sure you can find them. REST, you fool, REST!
Nine
of Cups:
Surprise! You are going to get your wish! Everything is going to work out
beautifully. Joy, happiness and good health are yours.
Whatever you were hoping for is coming your way.
Nine
of Cups Reversed:
Weird stuff. Either your wish is not to be granted at this time or you'll
get it in a way you don't expect or want. Be careful what you wish for! You just
might get it. Could also indicate poor health. Take better care of yourself.
Ten
of Cups:
Joy, happiness, emotional fulfillment, a happy conclusion. The loving,
cuddly family is suggested here. You are finally able to experience the
happiness you have waited for so long and worked so hard to achieve. Don't let
this joyful time make you paranoid that it will be taken away. Accept the
harmonious flow of energy coming into your life at this time. You deserve it.
Ten
of Cups Reversed:
Sadness and disappointment are around you at this time. This could
indicate unrest or disharmony in
the family or those around you. Someone is feeling
abused and unhappy. Make amends if you can, but this may well be a
situation where only time can heal
the wounds.
Ace
of Swords:
Excaliber! The sword that slices through good and evil, truth and lies.
Stop being depressed! You are well
able to "cut" through this situation and use
your influence to win the day. Put your plans into action and expect no
less than success. Your vision is
clear and the information you have is correct.
Press on!
Ace
of Swords Reversed:
Go easy. Utilizing too much force or pressure at this time would not be
wise. It would seem that you are
trying to use a sword to split a diamond. These
things must be handled delicately. Plan your course well and be careful
not to throw your power around. Too
much action is not advised. Keep it slow and
steady. You are not in possession of all the facts yet.
Two
of Swords:
Things seem to be in a very precarious state of balance. It may be
difficult to make a decision at
this time because you are blinded to the things that you
need to know. Best to wait this one out because the waters to your back
are a bit treacherous. Put off
making major decisions until more facts come to
light.
Two
of Swords Reversed:
Now things are starting to happen. The blindfold has been removed and you
are now able to see what you were blinded to before. Because of the pause you
may have experienced, the pace that is underway at this time may be a bit hectic
for you. It may seem that things are moving too quickly. This is only your
perception. Move with the flow and make those decisions you have been putting
off. The time is right.
Three
of Swords:
This is a sad card to find in a reading because it means that someone is
going away. Usually this is an
enforced separation, meaning that there is little you can do or could have done
to change things. Being separated from your loved ones is never easy and the
sadness you feel at this time is natural.
Three
of Swords Reversed:
When reversed, this card usually means that the separation described in
the upright position is only temporary. While
that certainly does not decrease the pain of being away from your loved one(s),
it gives you hope for tomorrow. If you are separated because of an argument,
this card indicates that you are the one who needs to say, "I'm
sorry."
Four
of Swords:
He may look dead, but he's only resting so deeply that he gives that
appearance. This card implies that a time of rest and recuperation is at hand.
This will usually indicate a physical resting of the body, such as a vacation or
even a convalescent time after sickness or surgery, This could also, but more
rarely, mean mental resting, such a going on a retreat or hibernating from the
rest of the world with a fireplace, warm blanket, a good book and lots of ice
cream.
Four
of Swords Reversed:
Things are happening again. Your isolation and rest has been completed
and you are back into the swing of things again. Action after stagnation is
implied with this card. Be careful. You must take it easy or you will do too
much too soon and end up back out of commission again.
Five
of Swords:
WARNING: Make sure this is not actually the 7 of swords. They often look
a lot alike and are easily confused! Ha ha ha. We won, you lost. The guy on this
card almost always looks like he's gloating while the boys in the background are
slinking away. He's also picking up the toys they left behind while they were in
such a hurry to get away. Is the victor you or someone else? This card can
represent cowardice, walking away in defeat, or victory by unfair advantage. The
victor gains through someone else's loss.
Five
of Swords Reversed:
Regret over past actions. Perhaps you took unfair advantage over someone
and now you're feeling the guilt monster. This card can also indicate that you
are involved in a really rotten situation where you are being forced to perform
in a manner that is out of character for you or is unfair and cannot be changed.
Six
of Swords:
You are being ferried away from a difficult situation. Looking at the
picture on this card, you will see that the boat is leaving rough waters and
heading toward smooth sailing. A difficult time is ending and a new and happier
time commences. This card, like the Chariot, can take on literal terms and mean
travel. You may be moving away to a new home or job or possibly going on a trip
for vacation or business purposes or it may be a spiritual or mental journey
away from troubled times. A cycle
in your life is fading away...let it do so.
Six
of Swords Reversed:
Reversed, this card can mean two different things. Either you are in a
difficult time period and there is nothing you can do at this time to move away
from it or, if a journey is planned, there may be delays and complications. If you can’t postpone the trip, make sure your vehicle is
in top notch conditions and be prepared to adapt to other plans if needed.
Vehicle or journey problems are usually indicated when this card is
drawn.
Seven
of Swords:
DOUBLE CHECK! Make sure this is not actually the 5 of swords.
Remember, they are very similar. This card shows a man slipping away from
an encampment or city with his arms laden with swords. This is a weird card,
because its meaning is dependent on what you seen depicted here. It could be
that someone is taking something that does not belong to them. Your focus may
fall on the two swords left behind, indicating that a person is not able to
carry a full load and must decide what should be taken and what should be left
behind. Do you get an impression of sneakiness and deception from this card?
If so, go with the first interpretation.
If not, look to the second.
Seven
of Swords Reversed:
Reversed, this card means that something you thought was gone forever may
be returned to you. This could be something tangible that you have lost or was
taken or something abstract like your self-esteem or honor. This card also
indicates that you should avoid any indiscretions at this time because you very
probably will get caught.
Eight
of Swords:
This one isn't too difficult to interpret. The Eight of Swords indicates
that you are restrained from action at this time. You cannot see which way to go
to free yourself from a difficult situation and are feeling confined. Usually,
this card makes it clear to you, the reader, that there is a path out of the
circle of swords (obstacles) surrounding this person, but because she is
blindfolded, she is unable to see it. It is therefore likely that outside advice
would be helpful in this situation. Perhaps and objective observer can give a
clearer perspective to the person caught up in the situation.
Eight
of Swords Reversed:
The ties are loosened, the blindfold falls and the victim can now see how
to move out of the present set of circumstances. There is greater freedom of
activity and reaction. You feel less confined and better able to handle the
problems at hand.
Nine
of Swords:
This is another of the ambiguous cards that can easily mean something
completely different, depending on your perception of what is going on in the
picture. The classic interpretation is anxiety and despair, inconsolable
sadness, disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue and frustration. Other people see in
this card a person who has awakened and is crying with relief that what brought
the fear and anxiety to her life was actually only a nightmare and all is well.
What do you see here?
Nine
of Swords Reversed:
The meaning of this card becomes clearer when it is in the reversed
position. It offers encouragement that the sun is coming up. Things are getting
better and tomorrow is another day. Don't become so engrossed in the problems of
today that you forget that they may not even affect you in a day, a week or a
month. Keep your eyes to the future and have faith that all will work out for
the best.
Ten
of Swords:
Another perception card. Is the sun on the horizon in the distance rising
or setting? This can affect your perception of the meaning of this card. This
card can literally represent back pain or injury or being "stabbed in the
back" and betrayed. A friend of mine has titled this card "Bad Day at
Red Rock" and that seems quite appropriate. Things are decidedly not going
well. This card can mean the breakdown of existing plans, things not going as
you expected, unhappiness, disappointment, pain, misfortune, accidents,
carelessness, and all manner of nastiness.
Ten
of Swords Reversed:
A bad situation is ending and a better one is beginning. You have
completed a difficult lesson and if you keep this lesson in your heart and mind,
you will not have to repeat it again. You may still be twanging and reeling from
the hurt and pain this lesson brought with it, but you are moving into a new and
better set of circumstances and may safely heave a sign of relief. Things are
going to get progressively better.
Ace
of Pentacles:
As the Aces always represent a new beginning in the area represented by
the suit of the card, the Ace of Pentacles indicates a financial breakthrough of
some kind. It may also represent what will eventually lead to an increase in
funds or career status, such as a new job, an educational degree that will move
you upward in the work force or a raise or promotion. It could also represent a
legal judgment in your favor, especially if the Justice card is nearby.
Successful ventures of some kind are generally at hand when this card appears in
a spread.
Ace
of Pentacles Reversed:
Reversed, the Ace of Pentacles indicates that things have not gone as
well as you thought they would in the world of finance. Either funds or a
promotion you expected did not manifest or perhaps someone ran interference on a
plan or project you were depending upon greatly. This card counsels that it is
always prudent to have a backup plan and not to rely too heavily on one
particular project to bail you out. In other words, don't put all of your eggs
in one basket.
Two
of Pentacles: The
Two of Pentacles is such a mass of symbolism that many people find a different
meaning for this card every time they read it. Essentially, it is showing a
person who is casually, skillfully balancing two situations while the storm
rages on in the background. This usually indicates that the person concerned has
a great deal of talent in keeping things afloat. They are very stable, dexterous
and comfortable coping with more than one situation at any given time. In fact,
they may revel in accepting life as one big plate spinning event. This card also
indicates that disharmony could unbalance you. It is essential that things be
kept running smoothly or everything could fall.
Two
of Pentacles Reversed: When
reversed, it seems that something caught the attention of our artful juggler and
either everything has come crashing down or is becoming almost impossible to
keep in the air. It is now essential that you make a decision, prioritize your
"to do" list and do not despair if you cannot get everything done or
keep everyone happy. If your energies are feeling scattered and disharmonious,
perhaps you should evaluate what it is that you are juggling and eliminate some
of your load.
Three
of Pentacles:
The Three of Pentacles represents the Master Craftsman. This artesian has
been working in his field of endeavor long enough to have perfected his art. He
can be compared to the apprentice represented in the Eight of Pentacles. The
Three of Pentacles indicates skill in a particular field, perhaps an employment
or a hobby. If this card appears in response to a question about a job, it
usually indicates that a person will remain in his field of expertise or will
get a job based on his prior achievements and knowledge. It can also represent
being honored for accomplishments in a specialty field, receiving some sort of
recognition or award for a job well done.
Three
of Pentacles Reversed:
Reversed, this card means that the mastery of skills has not yet been
reached. There is still more practice needed. Perhaps you are trying to take the
easy way out and reach the top by avoiding some crucial steps. A promotion or
reward may be delayed at this time. You are not applying yourself to your
learning potential as much as you should.
Four
of Pentacles:
Just as the picture implies, this card says that you are putting too much
emphasis on material matters at this time. This may indicate greed, miserliness
or even holding something nonmaterial, such as a person or plan, too close to
you. Keeping everything for yourself is a general theme with this card. Loosen
up a bit.
Four
of Pentacles Reversed:
Reversed, this card counsels the exact opposite of the upright
interpretation: Squeeze each penny until it yelps. The indication here is that
money is going out of your budget too freely for superfluous expenditures. Put
the brakes on your checkbook and batten down the hatches. Things may not be grim
on the financial horizon at this time, but there is something coming up that is
going to require every cent you have. Get some money into reserve fast and cut
the extra spending.
Five
of Pentacles:
The Five of Pentacles is actually a progression from the Four of
Pentacles reversed. A catastrophe (usually financial) has caught you unaware and
is now causing impoverishment of some kind. This can be physical, spiritual or
financial. The implication is of being "left out in the cold" in some
way. Although the usual impact is financial due to the suit of pentacles, this
could also indicate that you are feeling spiritually destitute or abandoned. You
may have been milked by unfortunate circumstances to the point that you want to
give up. One theme tends to run common in different decks with regard to the
Five of Pentacles. Usually this broken down duet is in front of a church with
lights shining from the inside. This does not mean that religion is the answer
to your problems. This is symbolic for the abstract that help is there if you
will only look up. You must
recognize that you cannot get through this crisis alone and help from another
source is needed. Swallow your pride and seek out the help you need. If it
doesn't come in the form of the first or even tenth avenue you approach, keep
trying. It is there for you and you need only to find the correct connection.
Five
of Pentacles Reversed:
A friend of mine who is a clinical psychologist has a question that he
asks his patients from time to time: "Are you enjoying your
depression?" When I first
heard this, I though it was a particularly foolish question. But the more I
thought about it, the more I saw its value. If someone is enjoying a pity party,
they are not going to find their way out of it. The first step to changing an
unhappy situation is to acknowledge that this set of circumstances is
unacceptable. That then provides the affirmation that will pave the way for your
emergence and final release from the difficulties you have been experiencing.
Reversed, the Five of Pentacles says that you have already decided to release
yourself from the situation, all you need to do now is find the means to do it.
Stay in touch with your innermost self and let common sense and intuition work
together to guide you out. You must accept that part of the reason you have been
restricted is, in fact, your own fault. You must brush yourself off and get
going. It is not going to be easy by any means. You did not get into this
situation overnight and it isn't going to be fixed overnight. Take things one
step at a time and pat yourself on the back and be extraordinarily pleased with
yourself for each small advancement you make. This card also brings you the
not-so-joyful news that you are the only one who can remedy this problem. Others
may help you along the way, but their assistance with be minimal. The
responsibility is yours and yours alone.
Six
of Pentacles:
Finally, the dark night of the Five of Pentacles has broken into the
light of the Six. There is now a sudden freeing up of funds and you are able to
enjoy the fruits of your efforts. There is enough to go around for everyone, so
this card counsels to give everyone a share rather than localizing your funds in
one area. If the question does not involve money, this card represents sharing,
charity and careful distribution. Fairness and equality are also denoted.
Six
of Pentacles Reversed:
In the reverse, everything tumbles. There is some discordance in regard
to how money is being handled or distributed. Either you are not happy with your
share or you are unable to adequately distribute the funds you have in the
direction they are needed. The money you make or receive routinely is under
threat from some source and you need to get a tighter rein on where it's going.
Someone may be trying to take advantage of your generosity.
Make sure there aren't too many hands in the pot.
Seven
of Pentacles:
Growing up on a farm, one thing you learn about is hoeing. Not the
street-walkin' way, but the garden way. When working in a garden, you hoe the
weeds away from the plants and, when planting in the spring, some seeds require
that you hoe a furrow the length of the raw, then go back and plant the seeds,
covering them with the dirt you have furrowed. This, friends, is a lot of work.
After you have heed a distance down your row, ever so often you look back on the
work you have accomplished to make sure your row is straight. If it isn't, you
go back and fix it. This is the essence of the Seven of Pentacles. You have been
working on a "row" of some kind and the time has come to look back and
evaluate what you have done. If you have been very careful and paid close
attention to what you were doing, the repair you will have to do will be minimal
or none. If you started to daydream along the way and lose track of what you
were doing, you may have to work a little harder to bring things back into line
again, If you were smart enough to run a string between two sticks in the dirt
from one end of the row to the other, you've got it made in the shade. Your
foresight will have kept you on track and all should be well. So how does this
little nostalgic dissertation apply to the Tarot? You are in a time of pausing
in pour activity. During this time, you should look back on what you have
accomplished and correct whatever mistakes are apparent to you. If all is well,
you may have the privilege of resting on your hoe for a few minutes until time
to get back to work. How well things go for you at this time depends solely on
what you have fed into the situation.
Seven of Pentacles Reversed: You blinked. Your row is crooked and you're probably going to have to go back and redo the whole thing. You were distracted or in a hurry and the job you have done is shoddy. All you can do now is go back, repair what you can, and don't be in such a rush this time. Stop whining and feeling sorry for yourself. If you had done it right the first time, you'd be happily moving along to something else by now. You have no one to blame except you-know-who.
Eight
of Pentacles: This
is the card of the apprentice. He has not yet reached the level of the Master
Craftsman we saw back in the Three of Pentacles, but he is working hard to get
there. He continues to work and
work until he gets it right, putting in the necessary time and energy to become
proficient at what he does. This card represents a learning time. You are
definitely heading in the right direction, What you are doing at this time in
your life is preparing you well for the future. Unfortunately, in the apprentice
stage, the monetary returns are not very high, but you are well on your way to
achieving the financial security you need and want. Stay with the hard work and
you will find that it pays off greatly in the future. Always keep your goal
firmly visualized so that you will remember why you are putting in these long
hours and masses of energy.
Eight
of Pentacles Reversed:
Stop trying to take shortcuts to success and pay your dues like everyone
else. There are no "get rich quick" plans. You have to put in your
time and take things step by step. You are trying to get ahead by stepping on
other people and avoiding the normal course of action. This is going to cause
you to fail. When you cut in line,
you get sent to the back of the line or removed from the line altogether. It is
essential at this time that you pull back and go about things in their proper
manner. Above all, BE PATIENT! All things take time!
Nine
of Pentacles:
This card represent the near-end of a cycle, as do all of the nines. Here
we see a person in a lavish garden with a manor house in the background. This
person appears to be quite content, but is most often depicted alone, indicating
the a the security and contentment is self-made, Financial prowess through
careful planning and management of funds, having heeded all of the lessons in
the previous Pentacle cards, has brought this person to a level of comfort and
security. You are provided for well and should feel a deep sense of satisfaction
and peace.
Nine
of Pentacles Reversed: It
is definitely time to fall back, regroup, figure out where you are going and
what is keeping you from getting there. What is it, exactly, that you want out
of life and why aren't you getting it? You are still, even in the reversal
interpretation of this card, coming to the ending of a cycle and evidently you
have not accomplished what you set out to do. Are you even sure what that goal
originally was? Things appear to be a bit difficult at this time and you would
further complicate the situation by acting rashly or out of character. You can't
“hurry up" and fix what is wrong. Careful evaluation and planning is
necessary to extract you from this mess. Take it slow and easy and you'll find
yourself on top again. Get spooked
and act irrationally and you could lose everything.
Ten
of Pentacles:
The Ten of Pentacles brings into completion what was begun in the Ace and
touched upon in the Nine. Now the financial security has reached a point that
others can benefit from it as well. This card can denote an inheritance of some
sort (when it works in reverse chronology) or can signify laying the foundation
for your own future generation. You have reached the state of assured monetary
influx and freedom from poverty that you envisioned. A financial break or
windfall may be on the horizon, but most usually this state comes from careful
investments and wise planning.
Ten
of Pentacles Reversed:
Money problems seem to be springing up from everywhere. Be careful of
investments at this time. Things are in a state of upheaval and it would be wise
to keep your money to yourself for a time. Wait until the situation is more
stable before branching out. There could be problems concerning a will, probate,
escrow, a loan or any other situation where money and paperwork combine. Wages
may be held up or less than you expected. You must stay on top of this crisis or
you could risk being pulled under.
In
Summary...
è
The Minor Arcana addresses mundane issues in a reading.
è
The meaning of a Minor Arcana card is amplified and accentuated by surrounding
Major Arcana Cards.
è Court Cards around the Minor Arcana Cards may indicate people who are involved with the circumstances depicted in the Minor Arcana Cards.