The Foo

THE FOOL AS ADVICE
Advice on how to help a situation. It seems to suggest to actually let go, doesn't it? Not let go as in abandon but let go as
in don't try to control anything and live and behave spontaneously? As advice I would have taken The Fool to mean to
stop being afraid and just go with it with a light heart, let the chips fall where they may. So in this sense its more typical
meaning, as advice, to not be afraid seems to mean to give up control too. What do you think? It still seems to me like it's
saying much more and I'm not grasping it.
Take a leap of faith into the unknown OR look before you leap perhaps -but depends on other cards and rest of reading
and if you read reversals and so on. What did you pick up from the rest of your reading if there was one ?
Go for it, don't be afraid, go wherever it takes you and be open to whatever may happen and whatever you may learn.
This is the first day of the rest of your life.
The flip side of the innocent, optimistic Fool is the "foolish" (maybe gullible?) one. It could be advice to watch your step.
Take a leap of faith into the unknown OR look before you leap perhaps -but depends on other cards and rest of reading
and if you read reversals and so on. What did you pick up from the rest of your reading if there was one ? It was just one
card. I see your point but I would go with the leap of faith because of the question "what should I do/how should I behave
to help the situation". I think if it had come out as a warning to not act like The Fool the question should have been put
differently. Like "what should I be careful of to help the situation" etc. Go for it, don't be afraid, go wherever it takes you
and be open to whatever may happen and whatever you may learn. This is the first day of the rest of your life. Hah.
Thanks. I can't say I've ever had much of a connection with the fool but today, since I drew the card, that youthful vitality
makes me smile. It definitely gave me a positive jolt. And something in your choice of words resonates particularly. I
also thought it could be an invitation to treat this situation like you would a new one. Really actually and completely let
go and forget all the little bad things that happened.The flip side of the innocent, optimistic Fool is the "foolish" (maybe
gullible?) one. It could be advice to watch your step. Hmm- as I said RAchx , though it crossed my mind, I have a hard
time accepting it could be a warning of that nature. I think it could be that if it was reversed or if it answered a question
about what to be careful of.
In a larger more universal or cosmic sense it could also mean that you are at the beginning of what will be a great journey
or new phase of your life that will bring much growth and experience your way. Does that resonate? Alma
In a larger more universal or cosmic sense it could also mean that you are at the beginning of what will be a great journey
or new phase of your life that will bring much growth and experience your way. Does that resonate? Alma It does but
coming up as "advice" I was trying to see it as things I should be doing or an attitude I should have. And I think, in that
light, mirroring what you said too it's about having an attitude of "love like you've never been hurt".
It does but coming up as "advice" I was trying to see it as things I should be doing or an attitude I should have. And I
think, in that light, mirroring what you said too it's about having an attitude of "love like you've never been hurt".
Ah in that case, is this about a relationship? It wasn't clear in your initial post. If it's about a relationship then I think
drawing the Fool could mean try to see the relationship as the start of a new journey, or have faith that this will be a good
thing for you. Go into it with an open heart!
THE FOOL – TRAVEL?
Can the fool up right mean physical travel?. I see it as going somewhere. What are your opinions?
The Fool is walking along and walking is a form of travel, so of course.
I'd say so. Since there are other cards that can represent travel (6 of Swords and the World, for instance), I think we can
extrapolate what kind of travel. I'd say it means going somewhere new, as the fool is at the beginning of a journey he's
never taken before.
I'd say it does mean travel but not getting there the safest way or not choosing where or how to travel wisely. The Fool is
setting out on a journey but he's not paying attention along the way, so he's about to step off a cliff. He obviously didn't
have any plan when he started out.
In the Wickwillow, the Fool is looking behind himself and not aware that he's walking into a giant snake's mouth. He's
too focused on the dog behind him to pay attention to what's in front of him.
Yes of course. The Fool is the very first Tarot card in the deck, and the Fool is setting out on a journey inn major arcana.
When I got a reading by my regular tarot reader, I asked for a card on him and I pulled the Fool.
He travels around the world for his job. Also the fool comes up when I do spreads on my ex and I.
Paul has moved to Vegas and back in the last five years.
Thanks for the fantastic replies!. I hope I can travel soon, and if it does happen it will be withhout much planning,
adventure type of thing, just doing it.
I'd say so. Since there are other cards that can represent travel (6 of Swords and the World, for instance), I think we can
extrapolate what kind of travel. I'd say it means going somewhere new, as the fool is at the beginning of a journey he's
never taken before.
Yes I did go to a new place I never had been.
I'd say it does mean travel but not getting there the safest way or not choosing where or how to travel wisely. The Fool is
setting out on a journey but he's not paying attention along the way, so he's about to step off a cliff. He obviously didn't
have any plan when he started out.
In the Wickwillow, the Fool is looking behind himself and not aware that he's walking into a giant snake's mouth. He's
too focused on the dog behind him to pay attention to what's in front of him.
Actually.. I posted this on January but 10 months later I did go on a last minute trip, without previous planning, all very
risky even the transportation...
So yes it took 10 months but it did happened as you said!.
Yes of course. The Fool is the very first Tarot card in the deck, and the Fool is setting out on a journey inn major arcana.
When I got a reading by my regular tarot reader, I asked for a card on him and I pulled the Fool.
He travels around the world for his job. Also the fool comes up when I do spreads on my ex and I.
Paul has moved to Vegas and back in the last five years.
Yes I did a trip and met someone who was travelling the world
The Fool is walking along and walking is a form of travel, so of course.
Yes there was a lot of walking around when I was on the trip
My conclusion with the fool as travel is: Unplanned risky trip to a remote new place that had lot of mountains *as all of
you said*. However, it didn't happen right away after I pulled the card but 10 months later, when I wasnt expecting it. It
was rather a foolish thing to do but fun regardless.
Thank you so much for the update! I'm always very happy to see updates because we don't usually get the chance.
I hope you had fun!
Yes I already got the fool when asking about the chance to connect with someone in 2015. I understood that it meant that
then person might moved out of country for work and I learned soon after that it was the case.
In some readings, I see the Fool as a very independent person, with a free spirit and yes, who might like travelling or
working abroad!
THE TOWER AND THE FOOL
The Tower is normally associated with drastic and chaotic events, but what does it mean when it's accompanied by the
Fool?
Does this indicate something bad will happen that will make you have to start over, or does it mean something life
changing and sudden will happen for the better?
Also, would it mean something different if it was a person (someone else) causing this?
Without context, we can only suggest what the cards could mean, not what they do mean. And by "together" do you mean
two cards with equal weight or that one card clarifies the other?
Together, the two cards indicate some event (Tower) that causes one to begin anew (Fool). In most decks, the Fool faces
to the left of the card (and therefore towards the Tower if the cards were laid down in that order), so another possible
interpretation is walking blindly (as the Fool isn't paying attention to where he's going) into a traumatic situation (Tower).
Without context, we can only suggest what the cards could mean, not what they do mean. And by "together" do you mean
two cards with equal weight or that one card clarifies the other?
Together, the two cards indicate some event (Tower) that causes one to begin anew (Fool). In most decks, the Fool faces
to the left of the card (and therefore towards the Tower if the cards were laid down in that order), so another possible
interpretation is walking blindly (as the Fool isn't paying attention to where he's going) into a traumatic situation (Tower).
Thanks for your interpretation!
I'm new to card reading, so I'm not so sure, but the Fool came after the Tower, and the question was about how someone
I'll meet in the future will affect my life. I'm trying to figure out if this person will ruin my life and make me start over
from scratch, or if the person will change my life for the better so I can know if I should avoid meeting them.
Hi, if the Fool came after the Tower, I would think the Fool represents a person who with his ingenuine, spontaneous
mind will create something good out of the chaos. In another words, it would show courage and ability to start over on
another venture and not be scared. Should they be the other way around, the Fool before the Tower, that would be someone
who with careless action would cause a chaos.
I hope this is helpful.
Hi, if the Fool came after the Tower, I would think the Fool represents a person who with his ingenuine, spontaneous
mind will create something good out of the chaos. In another words, it would show courage and ability to start over on
another venture and not be scared. Should they be the other way around, the Fool before the Tower, that would be
someone who with careless action would cause a chaos.
I hope this is helpful.
Thank you for sharing your insight, Strenght!
That makes me feel a little less nervous now. The Tower still confuses me though. I'm not sure if I should expect something
devastating to happen to me, or if the person in question changes my life greatly. Hmmm.
Didn't notice your join date. Welcome to Aeclectic!
I'm guessing you're talking about a specific person you know you're going to meet in the near future, not some random
person you'll meet at some random time in the future. The event that the Tower discusses is neither positive nor negative.
A person's reaction to the event is what makes it positive or negative.
Examples of the kinds of events the Tower could be discussing:
-realization that there is (or isn't) a God
-realization that you can do/be something/someone other than what your parents want you to
-realization that the world isn't a fair place
-realization that there are people out there who will take advantage of you
-you make a scientific discovery (one of my go-to phrases for the Tower is "A HA!")
In and of themselves those events aren't positive or negative. It's how you react to the events that makes that determination.
Most folks react negatively to their Tower experiences which is why the Tower has such a bad rep.
I'm inclined to agree with rwcarter about walking blindly into a bad situation. That combination kinda makes me think of
Tarot of the New Vision, where it looks like (to me anyway) the Fool almost walking toward an erupting volcano.
I had this combination once. Whatever the question is this means the ultimate ending.
Thanks for sharing your insights, everyone!
The Tower came before the Fool, so I assume this person might set me free from my old way of life and give me a new
one. This person apparently has a lot of education behind them, money, and my card reader assumes that he's a Doctor
since I'm going to meet him around work and I'm studying to become a nurse right now. I'm also very poor, and the only
reason I'm able to go to nursing school is because I miraculously got a scholarship.
I went to my family's card reader to give me a more detailed explanation of what's going on, and she said this person will
assist me financially, help change and make me the person I'll become, and give me a better lifestyle. I'm also apparently
going to be in a romantic relationship with them.
Just read your first post. Don't know the context/situation.
Could be: don't be foolish you'll severely f&*! up
Could be: Major kaboom leads to new beginnings
Could be: try something new/adventurous it will rock your world/shatter your illusions/preconceptions.
FOOL AS AN ACTION TOWARDS YOU
I did a reading for a friend. She wanted to know what sort of action someone is going to take towards her by the end of
the week -
- Crowning card: Hermit
- What is before you: Six of wands
- Hopes and fears: Two of cups
- Outcome: Fool
I mention the cards which I feel are the most significant within the ten card spread.
I think she feels like this person will not do anything and I see that in the Hermit.
At the same time, she is too proud to take any action herself - Six of wands.
She is very hopeful that this person will contact her, meet up with her.....- Two of cups
But the Fool is where I get really confused. The best I can do is suggest that anything is possible because the fool is so
unpredictable.
To be honest, I don't really know what to tell her, any ideas you guys ???
The action might be impulsive, unpredictable and exciting.. Something unexpected and not planned or something she was
not expecting.
I did a reading for a friend, she wanted to know what sort of action will a certain person take towards her by the end of
the week.
The Fool came up as the outcome. What does the fool mean as an action towards someone???
The Fool is so confusing to me as a possible action. It's unpredictable, like anything is possible.
Does anyone have any ideas???
Greetings, Chasing Fireflies,
As per our UTC rules, when discussing cards from a reading, you have to offer your own thoughts on what they means
before anyone else can offer theirs. We know you're confused, but saying that the Fool is "unpredictable" and anything
could happen seems to be an avoidance of even trying to guess what the card might mean. After all, there are limits to
actions we can take in any situation. Most of us can't defy the laws of gravity or shoot lasers from our eyes. "Anything"
is not possible.
So, what possible action might this card suggest that this person might take in this situation towards someone? Give us
your thoughts, and then others can give you theirs.
Oh ok, I wasn't actually trying to avoid providing my own interpretation, I guess I didn't provide enough detail.
I meant that the Fool is unpredictable in the sense that the card is essentially representative of someone who is very liberal
in terms of their behaviour. This can either be good or bad in any given situation and it all depends on the surrounding
cards of coarse.
In terms of a specific action towards someone, in this situation, I see it as either
1. a step towards a new beginning, approaching a situation/person with an open mind or a new, fresh perspective.
or
2. it could mean that this person will move on to new things, go of on a new adventure so to speak. Being so carefree, I
don't think the Fool would hesitate to leave someone behind.
I mean these two examples are the two most obvious interpretations. Does anyone have some other ideas about what it
could mean as a possible action towards someone???
OK, I'm putting this back in.
Before I get serious, let's have some fun!
What does your typical Fool do? Simper and drool and roll his eyes? Screw up his face, jump and down waving his arms
and shout obscenities? Just grin like a . . . Fool?
OK, enough of that . . .
Maybe he (or perhaps she?) draws back from the brink of the precipice and doesn't quite engage? Maybe he does
something completely unexpected and seemingly out-of-character? Maybe he just acts "foolish" because he doesn't know
what to say? Maybe his actions will be naive, idealistic and probably nervous? Maybe he just acts in a carefree,
irresponsible and innocent manner?
However he acts, hopefully it's with dignity (not always a reasonable expectation from a Fool). But certainly expect the
unexpected.
A thread on the same cards from Your Readings has been merged with an existing thread that was already in Using Tarot
Cards.
Thank you to the moderators for merging the two threads, I got a bit confused there, loll :-)
Dangala and Barleywine, thank you for your input :-)
Impulsive and unexpected sound like a good bet...........hopefully it will turn out to be like a pleasant surprise but I don't
want to get her hopes up though.
To be on the safe side I think I'll just tell her to expect the unexpected, loll
Crowning card is the possible (but not probable) future in a Celtic Cross. Therefore, Hermit as a possible card is actually
coming out of a period of seclusion. But that is not a guaranteed future. It jut shows that it is a possibility.
What is before you: Six of Wands shows that she will temporarily get over the thing for him. She will triumph over her
feelings.
Hopes and Fears: Two of Cups = she both wants and fears the couple state with this person.
Final outcome: Fool - she will jump into the relationship willingly, without thinking it through.
You asked "what sort of actions will he take towards her" but in the end, the tarot only says what the querent will do. It
is really bad at reading the motives of others, I believe. In either case, though, I think the Fool here signifies they will
both take a chance with each other The Fool suggests blithely jumping off the cliff of commitment, without thinking.
Falling blindly in love. Nothing there to suggest it is permanent, as Fool = 0, potential, beginning - but it does suggest
they will throw all caution to the winds, and fall into each other
That is my take!
Thank you Padma, that's a really interesting way of looking at it :-) I especially like your take on the six of wands.
To be honest though, I didn't want to jump to any negative conclusions earlier and I'm really doing my best to consider
some of the more positive possible outcomes that have been suggested but the more I think about it, I don't really see
anything happening between these two people.
The Fool may very well be representative of her own action but to me the outcome is essentially the same. Maybe he will
suddenly decide to move on or maybe she will suddenly decide to move on but either way I see it as one or both people
deciding to forget about it and move on to new things.
In this situation it just feels like someone unexpectedly breaking free of a person or situation and moving on to new things
with a fresh perspective on the world. And I think the Hermit reinforces this moving on ALONE aspect.
I don't want to be stubborn though, I'm going to give it some more thought......
FOOL AS AN ACTION TOWARDS YOU/WHAT IS HIS NEXT MOVE
I asked "what is his next move" in regard to a relationship. We only went out once and we seemed to like each other, but
I see the Fool as moving on or away, with him wanting to stay single and exploring other dating opportunities. Would
you interpret it as this? Or do you see the Fool as moving toward something with me -- like a new contact, beginning,
fresh start of something? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
I'd have to agree with your first interpretation as the Fool isn't ready to commit to anything or anyone except for his next
adventure....
You can expect anything as The Fool has absolute freedom.In your layout, was the Fool moving towards another card?
The Fool takes his first step towards something new, some might call it an adventure, but it can definitely be towards a
new relationship. Additional cards pulled on the Fool would help to clarify though
I agree with Rodney on this, the Fool likes to travel alone, not ready to settle on anything permanent.
Thanks for your posts! laurence, it was just a one card spread, so no other cards and Pandora180, thanks...maybe I'll
consider that, but I'm thinking rwcarter and PAMUYA are right about this card. Maybe he'll be my sweetheart in the
future, but I don't see him in a relationship with me anytime soon. Thanks again guys!
Your question is kinda similar to the reading I did earlier. I got The Fool card when inquiring if my ex was seeing someone
new. It would be good if he indeed is but then I knew him to be the flighty sort.
I have a bit of a different view on this. I think the Fool shows he is approaching the situation with a care-free attitude. He
just wants to be happy and adventurous, and he probably hasn't given much thought to the idea of a future relationship,
at least not yet. He's going wherever the wind takes him, he doesn't yet know if that means into a relationship or further
into his own freedom. And he probably doesn't want to know - he's enjoying the moment without worry of the future.
FOOL IN A RELATIONSHIP
How would you interpret the Fool in the future position of a relationship question?
Rolling the dice. . . taking a risk. . . starting over. Those would be upright interpretations.
Rushing headlong into a questionable situation. . . taking a foolish risk - those would be reversed interpretations.
But it all would be colored by the other cards in the spread. For that, you'd need to post in "My Readings."
Interesting - could be doing something you're unprepared for like committing to moving in together, marriage, travelling
together, If he's bad news and you're friends tell you so and you know it and you get together then you're the fool!
the fool
always a major risk in love
so tricky
but he has to follow his heart even if it takes him/her into sad waters - therse no gaurantee
just chose
thats my take
unless you have learnt the lesson and want to be a bit cautious
good luck
I have to follow my heart!!! Maybe I'm the fool.
whats a 5 of pentacles relationship?
Together through thick and thin. These 2 people might be poor, cold, whatever the picture is, but there is always that man
and woman!!
Together through thick and thin. These 2 people might be poor, cold, whatever the picture is, but there is always that man
and woman!!
I'm sure glad you explained that. . . I was thinking you meant one that was always lacking and sitting here wondering to
myself, "Now why would she want that?"
I tend to read literally most of the time and I sometimes have a hard time figuring things out since I know the esoteric
meanings!!
Depends on the deck but it could mean:
Foolishness
Innocence
Taking the plunge
Willing to forgive the past and start afresh
How would you interpret the Fool in the future position of a relationship question? The Knight of wands and I have
brokern up again.
Naivete will rule the relationship...
How would you interpret the Fool in the future position of a relationship question? The Knight of wands and I have
brokern up again.
The fool is very similar to the kinght of wands in this case, the fool isn't ready to settle or to give a commitment, there is
too many things he wants to do and explore, the fool is ready to start something new and different, searching for new
experience.
Maybe you should consider getting a dog!
That's funny! I already have a small petting zoo in my house! But seriously, thanks guys for all the input
The Fool is Freedom, in whatever position.
No boundaries, inhibitions, worries and restrictions, no one can control him... he's his own person and fears nothing.
The Fool is Freedom, in whatever position.
No boundaries, inhibitions, worries and restrictions, no one can control him... he's his own person and fears nothing.
I love that description Moonbow! Perfect description of the essence of the Fool
Well, that sure sounds like him. Maybe HE'S the fool.
Fool---doing the same thing over again without regard to what's happened in the past. Thinking it's going to be different
this time. Believing the other person when they say "this time it will be different" in spite of the fact that it's happened
umpteen times already with them saying the same thing and there being no change to speak of.
It reminds me of the saying about the definition of insanity: Doing the same things over and over again expecting different
results.
Or the saying: If you think what you've always thought, you'll get what you always got.
This keeps getting closer and closer to the situation!
Fool---doing the same thing over again without regard to what's happened in the past. Thinking it's going to be different
this time. Believing the other person when they say "this time it will be different" in spite of the fact that it's happened
umpteen times already with them saying the same thing and there being no change to speak of.
It reminds me of the saying about the definition of insanity: Doing the same things over and over again expecting different
results.
Or the saying: If you think what you've always thought, you'll get what you always got.
I totally agree with you Lyric,lol. Another saying for the situation would be: "Same book different chapter"
If the Fool appears as the first card drawn in a Celtic Cross relationship reading as the card that covers the significator of
the querant, this indicates that the querant is being made a fool of by his/her significant other. And very likely that the
querant is blissfully unaware -- too naive perhaps, too foolish, too starry eyed ~ anything but circumspect.
Trust me, this has certainly come to mind considering the situation. I'm the fool. huh!!
Not to make light of your situation, I think a lot of us have been there, but in the Gummy Bear Tarot, 5 of Pent's, one of
the characters has his little leg knawed off and is on crutches. Maybe it is like being in a trap, you keep knawing on your
paw to get away while the Knight of Wands just gets on his horse and RIDES away. Don't know if Gummy's can grow
back a leg or paw, but he certainly has the better means to get away and keep coming back. Women are not taught to, but
need to, think of themselves FIRST and you deserve and can probably do better.
You guys are all right. I'm seeing things in a much different light this time and I hope that little gummie bear can someday
grow his little leg back! xxoo
Don't feel too bad, I just got it as the central card in a relationship spread for myself. I've been the codependent in a bad
relationship with someone for a while, and I've only recently come aware of how he made a fool out of me.
SO do you give and give and give and wonder why but still keep on giving???
Such a relationship is not founded on true care and concern that both parties in a loving relationship must exhibit for the
relationship to be wholesome and nurturing. Co-dependant relationships find their roots much farther back in the past --
the relationship as it is now is a symptom of issues that formed in the psyche of the giver (the one who gives) long time
ago --
The cycle of giving and taking (giver always gives and taker always takes -- the taker manipulates the giver by promising
things that never really materialise -- the taker holds out the carrot just beyond the reach of the giver so that the giver is
persuaded time and again to make another effort to gain the carrot) will not end until the giver makes a conclusive stand
SO do you give and give and give and wonder why but still keep on giving???
Yup. There's a word for it. Co-dependent. You might have a pattern of it, or it might be the first time you got sucked into
something like it. Either way, get out, clear your head and reevaluate the situation.
THE FOOL
When the Fool card comes up in a reading is there ever a point where you might take the card literally, as in interpreting
it to mean the person feels like a fool? Example, in doing a reading for someone on what happened to make their partners
feelings for them change one of the cards that came up was the Fool. Could that be read as him feeling like a fool for
getting involved with her, as opposed to wanting something new/different? I would be more inclined to see the 4 or 8 of
Cups cards as him wanting something new/different instead of the Fool card...or am I just seeing this wrong?
Acting stupid sounds more apt here.
Acting stupid sounds more apt here.
Acting stupid in what way...he is acting stupid because his feelings for her changed or his feelings changed because she
was acting stupid?
was acting stupid?
He obviously did someting stupid that she did not like, anything from childish behaviour to arrogance.
was acting stupid?
It could be either. Even though in case of the former, more precisely, it would be the reverse: He is acting stupid (at least
from her view), that is, moving from one relationship to another on a whim, without giving real devotion to any, that's
why his feelings changed. He might call it "following his heart." It is quite possible that this was his attitude right from
the beginning. Some men (and women) are wired that way, at least during a certain stage of their development.
I have seen the Fool acting foolishly but it's a card from the major arcana as we alreay know. The fool is connected to
Uranus - the planet of genius. Uranus is all about independence and making things "differently". It's like people who is
represented of this card is marching to a different drummer. They don't care about the norms in the society. The are too
connected to their spirit. This can cause upset to other people, (when different wills clashes) but the Fool is actually
innovative - showing us how to live when using your free will. And sometimes this can look stupid or plain crazy. But
because Uranus is linked to the future - the fool is often a person who is a "future man" (or woman). I have also seen the
fool symbolize a strange or bizarre lover (but intelligent)
There isn't universal agreement that Uranus is related to the Fool. I happen to prefer the model that places Uranus with
Judgement as the predecessor to the Saturn-ruled World card, since Uranus was the mythological father of Saturn (frankly,
I just like the logic of that but the rather explosive nature of astrological Uranus does seem like a reasonable stand-in for
supernal Fire). Pluto is associated with the Fool in that model (there is no disagreement about Neptune and the Hanged
Man), and I can see the point that, considering the location of the path of the Fool on the Tree of Life and the fact that the
planet(oid) Pluto has a highly eccentric orbit that takes it entirely out of the solar system for long periods, the Fool might
be seen as a "messenger from the Cosmos" at the opposite end of the pecking order from Mercury regarding
communication. So maybe it's not acting foolishly so much as inscrutably, at least to our normal ways of viewing reality.
Maybe the individual in this reading was just saying ". . . and now for something completely different."
He obviously did someting stupid that she did not like, anything from childish behaviour to arrogance.
See, now that is more her behavior than his. He can act that way, but she is the one who bullies everyone (him, friends,
co-workers, etc)
Eh, I don't know about that. They have been together for 13 years and it has just been the last couple of years that he has
had a change of feelings. His two previous relationships lasted about 5 years each, so he doesn't really jump from one to
another on a whim.
I have seen the Fool acting foolishly but it's a card from the major arcana as we alreay know. The fool is connected to
Uranus - the planet of genius. Uranus is all about independence and making things "differently". It's like people who is
represented of this card is marching to a different drummer. They don't care about the norms in the society. The are too
connected to their spirit. This can cause upset to other people, (when different wills clashes) but the Fool is actually
innovative - showing us how to live when using your free will. And sometimes this can look stupid or plain crazy. But
because Uranus is linked to the future - the fool is often a person who is a "future man" (or woman). I have also seen the
fool symbolize a strange or bizarre lover (but intelligent)
There isn't universal agreement that Uranus is related to the Fool. I happen to prefer the model that places Uranus with
Judgement as the predecessor to the Saturn-ruled World card, since Uranus was the mythological father of Saturn
(frankly, I just like the logic of that but the rather explosive nature of astrological Uranus does seem like a reasonable
stand-in for supernal Fire). Pluto is associated with the Fool in that model (there is no disagreement about Neptune and
the Hanged Man), and I can see the point that, considering the location of the path of the Fool on the Tree of Life and the
fact that the planet(oid) Pluto has a highly eccentric orbit that takes it entirely out of the solar system for long periods,
the Fool might be seen as a "messenger from the Cosmos" at the opposite end of the pecking order from Mercury
regarding communication. So maybe it's not acting foolishly so much as inscrutably, at least to our normal ways of
viewing reality. Maybe the individual in this reading was just saying ". . . and now for something completely different."
OK, I see what you are all saying but you are seeing this from her point of view, why SHE thinks his feelings have
changed, but the reading was asking why his feelings changed, from his point of view, that is why I was questioning if
the Fool could be taken literally?
I know that this isn't the area that we post our readings, but taken in context to the rest of the cards drawn (7 Cups and 5
Swords...no, it wasn't a PPF reading) I could see that card as meaning that he feels like a fool because the woman that he
thought was the woman of his dreams turned out to be a bully who doesn't respect him or appreciate what he does for her
(his feelings about the relationship, in his own words).
Moderator, if you need to move this to the YR section I understand.
I would be more inclined to see the 4 or 8 of Cups cards as him wanting something new/different instead of the Fool
card...or am I just seeing this wrong?
This is where I was coming from regarding his stance in the matter:
The Fool "represents an original, subtle, sudden impulse or impact, coming from a completely strange quarter." (Crowley,
Book of Thoth)
Maybe it was as simple as someone new - maybe a chance encounter - totally turning his head. Not so much what he
wanted, but what irresistably lured him into changing his mind.
When the Fool card comes up in a reading is there ever a point where you might take the card literally, as in interpreting
it to mean the person feels like a fool? ...Could that be read as him feeling like a fool for getting involved with her
Humanity has always needed that one person who does foolish things to make us laugh--which is why there have always
been fools at royal courts, and clueless characters in plays. And yes, we in civilized times know it's cruel to laugh or mock
people who aren't trying to make us laugh; who are just making honest mistakes. But we still play pranks and laugh at
those who fall for them--and they laugh at falling for them too. We still watch comedies where people make dumb
mistakes and, in scrambling to fix them, escalate their folly. We still love comedians who entertain us with monologues
of their foolish moves. And, yes, sometimes that laughter is because the person looked at the thing very wrongly in their
ignorance, in a way we never expected, in a way that might delight us as well as make us laugh (fish-out-of-water stories
are all about such folly).
Ultimately, however, we're not laughing at them, but because these Fools help us to see, know, and laugh at ourselves. At
the stupid things we've done. And in that laughter, we forgive ourselves for those times when we've been a Fool.
THAT is why the Fool is a major arcana. Yes, he can sometimes be an innovator that others see as foolish ("Men weren't
meant to fly! What is that fool doing trying to create wings?") And there are those who are wise beyond their time that
others mock because they're the fools and they don't understand. BUT, the Fool isn't just a major, an archetype for them.
He is also a major, and archetype for our actual folly. Our actual dumb mistakes. The ones we make and post on YouTube
for everyone to laugh at...and for us to laugh at as well, remembering, forgiving, learning from, and understanding that
being silly, being clownish, being stupid, being unwise, is quintessentially human.
Answer to your question: YES. The Fool can stand for literally being a Fool. And I agree, given how you've described
this girl, that this person got that card likely because she hasn't changed at all. What's changed is his perspective. The
cards might be saying: "She hasn't changed, you Fool! She was always like this. You were too foolishly blind to see it."
I would say that yes it is saying literally he feels like a fool especially with the 5 of swords which means he's in a no win
situation and feels defeated in where he is in the relationship.
wanted, but what irresistably lured him into changing his mind.
THIS! This right here is what I wondered about? There is someone else he likes, a lot, and though he hasn't ended his
relationship with the one in question most people see it as only a matter of time before he does.
Humanity has always needed that one person who does foolish things to make us laugh--which is why there have always
been fools at royal courts, and clueless characters in plays. And yes, we in civilized times know it's cruel to laugh or mock
people who aren't trying to make us laugh; who are just making honest mistakes. But we still play pranks and laugh at
those who fall for them--and they laugh at falling for them too. We still watch comedies where people make dumb mistakes
and, in scrambling to fix them, escalate their folly. We still love comedians who entertain us with monologues of their
foolish moves. And, yes, sometimes that laughter is because the person looked at the thing very wrongly in their ignorance,
in a way we never expected, in a way that might delight us as well as make us laugh (fish-out-of-water stories are all
about such folly).
Ultimately, however, we're not laughing at them, but because these Fools help us to see, know, and laugh at ourselves.
At the stupid things we've done. And in that laughter, we forgive ourselves for those times when we've been a Fool.
THAT is why the Fool is a major arcana. Yes, he can sometimes be an innovator that others see as foolish ("Men weren't
meant to fly! What is that fool doing trying to create wings?") And there are those who are wise beyond their time that
others mock because they're the fools and they don't understand. BUT, the Fool isn't just a major, an archetype for them.
He is also a major, and archetype for our actual folly. Our actual dumb mistakes. The ones we make and post on YouTube
for everyone to laugh at...and for us to laugh at as well, remembering, forgiving, learning from, and understanding that
being silly, being clownish, being stupid, being unwise, is quintessentially human.
Answer to your question: YES. The Fool can stand for literally being a Fool. And I agree, given how you've described
this girl, that this person got that card likely because she hasn't changed at all. What's changed is his perspective. The
cards might be saying: "She hasn't changed, you Fool! She was always like this. You were too foolishly blind to see it."
Thank you Thirteen, you explained this card and the meaning of it very well. I have often thought that the Fool could
represent how someone literally feels about the situation that was asked about, but I know that the books describe it as a
new beginning and taking a leap of faith to try this something new. I guess it is true that sometimes you just have to go
with your gut feeling on these cards and veer from the normal meaning for a reading to make sense.
I would say that yes it is saying literally he feels like a fool especially with the 5 of swords which means he's in a no win
situation and feels defeated in where he is in the relationship
I agree with your take on this. He is unhappy, he complains constantly about his relationship and how he is treated, and
it is sad to see. When she isn't around he is happy and fun to be around but when she is around (which is most of the time)
he is angry and people avoid him
relationship with the one in question most people see it as only a matter of time before he does
In fact, he might very well feel "sheepish" (or foolish) about being caught in the middle of this situation (as much for his
reputation as for its effect on her), which is why he's hanging back. But in a positive sense the Fool portends a "new
chapter" for him, if not so happily for her.
Hmm, I'm not sure if I'm getting this right. On the one hand, when I wrote:
you replied:
Eh, I don't know about that. They have been together for 13 years and it has just been the last couple of years that he has
had a change of feelings. His two previous relationships lasted about 5 years each, so he doesn't really jump from one to
another on a whim.
On the other hand, to Barleywine's thought
wanted, but what irresistably lured him into changing his mind
your answer was:
relationship with the one in question most people see it as only a matter of time before he does.
So it was just the emphasis that was a little off in my post- he did follow after another woman on a whim, after all?
I agree with your take on this. He is unhappy, he complains constantly about his relationship and how he is treated, and
it is sad to see. When she isn't around he is happy and fun to be around but when she is around (which is most of the time)
he is angry and people avoid him
So he is feeling at ease and natural when she isn't around - just like the Fool! I'd say, he longs to be like that again most
of the time. That's the deeper reason why he started rejecting her and fell for another. The Fool makes perfect sense, from
this perspective.
Hmm, I'm not sure if I'm getting this right. On the one hand, when I wrote:
you replied:
On the other hand, to Barleywine's thought
your answer was:
So it was just the emphasis that was a little off in my post- he did follow after another woman on a whim, after all?
So he is feeling at ease and natural when she isn't around - just like the Fool! I'd say, he longs to be like that again most
of the time. That's the deeper reason why he started rejecting her and fell for another. The Fool makes perfect sense, from
this perspective.
I guess I was focusing more on what you said about that being his attitude right from the beginning. I saw that as meaning
that he wasn't interested in settling down, which is why I pointed out the length of his relationships with her and his two
former wives. I see 5 years (and especially 13 years) as seriously long periods of time because my longest relationship
has been 3 years. LOL
In fact, he might very well feel "sheepish" (or foolish) about being caught in the middle of this situation (as much for his
reputation as for its effect on her), which is why he's hanging back. But in a positive sense the Fool portends a "new
chapter" for him, if not so happily for her.
That is very possible. He is in a situation that isn't comfortable for anyone involved. I know the wife suspects the worst
but can't prove it...mainly because "the worst" hasn't actually happened yet.
WHAT KIND OF NEW BEGINNING IS THE FOOL?
Something completely unexpected? Something that comes out of the blue (or is that the Tower)? Something that is
unconventional? Hmm... Is it in any way negative?
For me the Fool is taking the first, fresh steps of a journey. I say fresh as he is unencumbered, foot lose and fancy free.
He is going to places yet undefined, he is moving onwards but does not know where. Only knows he must make the
journey and goes happily onwards.
He has a strong character, trusts his beliefs and learns by doing . Also a decision and direction
I usually interpret the Fool as "leap of faith."
You may not have the clearest view of where you're going, but you have faith in yourself and the Universe that all you
need to do is take the first step on that journey of 1,000 miles, and the rest will fall into place.
I've had many a Fool's journey...for example, when I moved to California on a whim, I had no apartment (one had fallen
through 3 days before I was to move!), a tentative job offer with a freelance client, and little money. Yet I had everything
by the time I got there. That was the Fool in action.
(it was a rather stressful time, though!).
It's "unknown"--not necessarily unexpected though it can be, not necessarily unconventional, though it can be, and not
negative when it happens--though the results of taking this step could come out well or poorly.
The important thing about the Fool is that he doesn't know anything. Quick and dirty example: Your job wants to move
you to a different city to run one of their branches. If they move you back to the city you grew up in, where all your family
live and that you visit yearly, that's not a Fool's beginning. You know everything there is to know about where you're
moving to--the good, the bad, what to watch out for, etc. You may even know the branch you're going to run and the
people in it.
If you company wants to move you to a city that you've never been to, or only visited on vacation a few times, then that's
a Fool's beginning. You know nothing about this place, its customs, food, housing, government, or what life will be like
there, or what this branch you'll be running is going to entail.
It's unknown. Usually, the Fool indicates, however, that this unknown beginning is exciting rather than scary. That's also
the Fool--he doesn't know anything and so fears nothing. Which is great as it allows for that Leap of Faith that was
mentioned, that optimism of the Fool, but also dangerous as it can mean that the Fool won't take precautions and may
misstep.
That's all that we can confidently say this beginning: Unknown, but the querent feels optimistic and excited about it,
willing to explore and see what there is to see
the Fool--he doesn't know anything and so fears nothing. Which is great as it allows for that Leap of Faith that was
mentioned, that optimism of the Fool, but also dangerous as it can mean that the Fool won't take precautions and may
misstep.
Yep. Let's just say that I had the COMPLETE Fool's journey
I drew the fool yesterday for my daily draw/blog and understood instantly that I had been a fool to have a closed mind.
Sometimes a fool is just a fool.
Some people like to have a daily routine. The fool might frighten them. Some people like adventure. The fool would
mean: Oh great - something new is happening. It is not generally bad. Sometimes I like changes in my life, sometimes
not. It depends.
Strange, the Fool is one card I never get when I do a reading for myself.
I think the Fool begins things without analysing the situation or carefully working out how to make it risk free. Instead of
focusing on all the possible ways things might go wrong, the Fool begins with confidence that it will all work out
somehow, even if there's little clue about how or what it will look like.
"When you come to the edge of all the light you know, And are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown,
faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on, Or you will be taught to fly."
Well, the reason I asked was that I had a series of cards about a relationship that - for reasons unbeknownst to me - has
become rather strained. The cards suggested that it would be moving from the easy-going innocence of the past to the
Fool. I guess the Fool can also mean freedom from the past, but is it for better or worse? Most of the replies would imply
that it will be for the better.
Maybe it means, in this instance: Better "PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT YOU ARE DOING HERE"
(as you step further and further into this new relationship)
... maybe willing to take chances and risks anyway?
...no matter what happens?
Not advisable, I don't think. And it looks like it's more a case of stepping out of than into.
That is exactly what the fool is saying then: "Pay attention to what you are doing or you may make a mis-step."
LOL, you're probably right. I was very aware of the dog, too. I thought it might be telling me to be careful I don't get
bitten.
LOL, you're probably right. I was very aware of the dog, too. I thought it might be telling me to be careful I don't get
bitten.
The dog is trying to "warn you" that you are way "too close" to the edge!!! Dogs have an uncanny sense of looking after
us!
Case in point: I fix breakfast every morning for my invalid husband. I take a breakfast tray in to him and he eats in his
electric hospital bed in his bedroom. Then I go back to my computer in the front of the house (it is a longgggg house and
he is in the back)...so one of our Chihuahuas (the "mommy dog" Leelee) has now adopted him (she used to be my dog)...
...well...whenever he is through eating, or has any crisis or problems, she will come to where I am and just bark her arse
off at me...very upset and won't stop until I go in to see what is wrong...she is a Pisces (& nurse type! ) ...she really
watches out for him!!! As long as he is in bed, she is there too......same with his own Chihuahua (now he has two and I
have two)
So, you see, there are some dogs that will warn you when things are wrong... So what is going on in your situation? What
is wrong? Can it be fixed? Or?
The fool means you have a open mind and are naive of the situation. You do not fear what you do not know. You may be
intelligent but you lack wisdom. He is on the first step towards wisdom if he survives the next few steps.
I do not know why the aspect of the fool that gives him "fools license" is so overlooked: the ability to tell the truth without
fear of punishment.
How about a "fools errand" (something utterly unproductive) or a "fools Paradise"?( a bliss-full illusion)...just to open it
up a bit. The fool is often a warning when it is not a new journey.
...and the dog is mans guardian and I feel in the RWS he is trying to warn/help man as tarotlyn says.
There is no leap of faith if the person is ignorant. Doing in spite of UNKnowing outcomes is faith in action. The outcome
is unknown, the faith/trust is the known . Tarot readers can be seen as fools , the faith in Their abilities is known. So a
reference to higher (mystic) dreamings should be included,so should courage, without which there is only
foolishness.(RV)
The dog in the RWS represents the Animus Astrale (body), the trainable ,desireing part ,wishing to experience mortality.(a
personal understanding). Hence the leap of faith(decent) into the unknown, encouraged and willingly entered into by the
animal body.
There is no leap of faith if the person is ignorant
I don't think the fool is ignorant...but indeed... instead... "innocent" and "inexperienced" ...thus far on his trail, trip, path...
Plus his "leap of faith" could be a leap over the edge in a mis-step of judgement in her relationship.
To bring it back down to earth, I think, she is the fool and the dog is trying to warn her to be careful because of her
inexperience and her trusting child like innocence...not ignorance.
To bring it back down to earth, I think, she is the fool and the dog is trying to warn her to be careful because of her
inexperience and her trusting child like innocence...not ignorance.
I think it's inexperience as well as ignorance because I don't know what's going on. I'm sure I'll get to the bottom of it
eventually. I love that story about your little dog, tarotlyn.
That fool, he thinks he's totally free but he's still carrying a little bit of baggage with him, eh?
Someone here once said he was a fool for getting too close to a dog who is biting him (like the marseille fool). I always
thought of the dog as his companion, so this was a new idea for me.
Lyn, wonderful story. Our cats only come in to see us when they are bored or want to be fed.
Someone here once said he was a fool for getting too close to a dog who is biting him (like the marseille fool). I always
thought of the dog as his companion, so this was a new idea for me.
That's exactly how it feels. (I think your cats are wise. They keep themselves to themselves.)
I drew the fool yesterday for my daily draw/blog and understood instantly that I had been a fool to have a closed mind.
Sometimes a fool is just a fool.
I missed this yesterday...yes I agree. Its not always some deep hidden meaning, actually it rarely is.
I guess the art is figuring out when. For me this usually happens by trial and error. Ouch!
For me, the Fool sometimes means getting out of your comfort zone... immersing yourself in something new, for weal or
for woe. Does that fit for you?
I see it as a childlike innocence in terms of attitude to life. Jumping in without fear and going for things without analysing.
Sometimes its better to trust your instincts and sense of adventure, which although seems naive , is at times what is
needed!
I guess the art is figuring out when. For me this usually happens by trial and error. Ouch!
Then that is just what the Fool does. He is learning on his journey.
I happened across a unique depiction of the Fool today, from the Fantasy Showcase tarot. He appears to be climbing back
up the side of the cliff after having taken the leap, his little friend is waiting for him at the top. My thought was, that fool
is going to go right back and do the same thing all over again. Everything is a new beginning/new experience for him.
Something completely unexpected?
It is to him. He doesn't know where he's going, and he doesn't know where he's been. (Unlike the Tower where you are
painfully aware of where you have been and what you have lost.)
That fool, he thinks he's totally free but he's still carrying a little bit of baggage with him, eh?
Yes, but he's almost unaware of it, it certainly doesn't weigh him down. When he learns how to use his experiences and
his baggage he will no longer be a fool.
I've always seen the fool as most representative of the 'hopeful' start.
The one in which you are so sure things are right that you dont even bother to check in case they are otherwise. Or you
refuse to, choosing to trust yourself. You can be a fool, but you might be right as well.
I see the Fool as an open door.
We do not know until we get into the space, on the other side of the door...or the next card.
A new beginning is full of opportunity, whatever one has their focus on.
The Fool came up for me when I made my first film. This was something I knew absolutely nothing about and stepped
into with naivety and absolute gullability. I was totally burned and promised myself I would never make another film but
here I am four years later about to make another one.
This time I am older and wiser and totally aware of what I need to do in order not to have the same thing happen again.
Writing your first novel is also a Fools journey because you have no idea of how much work it involves to get one finished.
However, when you do, you are much wiser and there is an awful amount of satisfaction if you do finish. I'm sure Tarot
creators have the same experience as it's such a large undertaking.
To fall off a cliff and make exactly the same mistakes again corresponds to the Fool's original meaning though - Le Mat
or the madman. In early decks the Fool is sometimes depicted as a vagabond which can have many meanings.
A beggar is someone dependent on the charity of others to get them through life, they sleep under the stars and carry their
belongings with them. They may seem carefree but it's not a life many would undertake willingly. (Possibly apart from
Orwell but it caught up with him in the end).
A vagabond doesn't know if they will eat from one day to the next or what each day will bring. Their only certainty is
hardship. In some decks such as the Marseilles, the Fool wears a jester hat, to me that shows the lack of dignity poverty
and mental illness can bring. As though to emphasise this, a dog bites the back of their leggings exposing their backside.
Another way of looking at this however, is as though the Fool is thumbing his nose at society.
Some of these unfortunates could only make a living by entertaining crowds or making 'fools' of themselves for money.
The mentally (and physically) challenged were often the brunt of jokes: sometimes their only saving grace was lack of
self awareness.
The Fool in some decks is outside the boundries of 'normality', shunned and ridiculed. The Visconti-Sforza shows a
vagabond in a half dressed state, his underpants falling down and feathers in his hair. He stands in front of a door as
though society has slammed it to keep him out. He looks fearful and vulnerable. He holds a club like the mythological
Woodwose or Wild Man of the Woods (L'homme sauvage). In some cultures even now, the worst punishment is social
exclusion because there is no way the person can survive by themselves.
There are many wise beggars in mythology such as Odhin, Odysseus and Li Tie guai (Li of the Iron Staff). Shakespearian
fools often lead us to the most profound truths:
''Can you make no use of nothing, nuncle?'' the Fool asks King Lear.''Nothing can be made out of nothing.'' Lear replies.
Itinerants often have some kind of mental illness or mood disorder and many self medicate. There is sometimes a
connection made between genius and mental illness. The Fool in the more modern decks seems to willingingly step off
the cliff (a Dick Wittington figure) whereas many beggars had no choice or were driven out of society (hence the biting
dog). The biting dog can also depict rabies and brain disease or a descent into the feral: a return to a wild state.
When you see the Fool you are about to begin a journey. Where you end up is unknown but what is known is that you
will learn something valuable from the journey.
The Fool can indicate a mentally ill person.
Yes, but how does that relate to how it functions when it comes out for a beginning?
My personal interpretation of the fool is "Follow the Yellow Brick Road" take a risk, but the fool is naive and has not
looked further than the YBR...he ambles ahead, with an innocent mind, like a carefree, happy, child with no real plan for
his journey or fate.....anticipation waits.......
I like this card... To me it represents surprises, something new and unexpected, something that leaves me with my mouth
open!!! Of course, there is a bit, juuuuust a bit, of folly in it, but anyway, i like it It also represents journeys to me, litterally
speaking, and also, sometimes it represented a "certain person" in my life, full (fool...) of surprises that rocked my
world!!!!!!!!!!!
The fool is always the metamorphosis part of the cycle when looking at beginnings.
The fool is the larva for a few moments after leaving the egg.
Then it is the caterpillar at the end of that life cycle as it enters into a pupa stage. A new step.
Then it is the fool again as it molts one last time and emerges as an adult butterfly, only to become the fool again as the
larva in a cycle of metamorphosis.
So there are many stages to a cycle of life, and each new one will be reflected in the fool card.
Being the Fool should commence at birth and cease only at death, when you stop being the Fool you are either a God or
have given up.
Being the Fool should commence at birth and cease only at death, when you stop being the Fool you are either a God or
have given up.
<grin> That's a bit fool-ish of you!
I actually debate that last statement of yours.
When we die, we have left behind everything we know or have learnt here, and are lost in the cosmos, trying to get our
bearings between the worlds. So we are, indeed, a Fool once more, in our deaths.
A further discussion of death and dying is here.
<grin> That's a bit fool-ish of you!
I actually debate that last statement of yours.
When we die, we have left behind everything we know or have learnt here, and are lost in the cosmos, trying to get our
bearings between the worlds. So we are, indeed, a Fool once more, in our deaths.
A further discussion of death and dying is here.
That would depend on ones point of view and you just tried to put yours on me
i think the fool is not completely a full beginning. because she's carrying something that he got before, that's show us she
got a previous kind of something. something that she trust, her power, her talisman to face the future
Something completely unexpected? Something that comes out of the blue (or is that the Tower)? Something that is
unconventional? Hmm... Is it in any way negative?
Stumbling out into the light of day. You can be too dazzled by the light to see anything very much.
You've also got to remember that the sanitised, lovey-lovey-all-things-are=-good interpretations of a lot of cards are really
recent, dating back to the middle of the twentieth century, whilst Tarot tracks back a *lot* further than that. And the
thoughtforms that have coalesced over the centuries are hard to kill. Sometimes, despite your own preferences, Death
may mean a sudden, harsh, irreversible end, and the Fool might mean idiocy. After all, in the Marseilles-style decks, he
looks like a madman, and in the Visconti-style decks he has the swollen eyeballs and throat of hypothyroidism, which
often leads to cretanism and mental retardation if untreated.
Beware of ALWAYS reading this card as if its fangs have been pulled. Sometimes they haven't.
The fool begins the dance, but the last dance is saved for lovers - he gets the party going for others to enjoy -
i know this may not be helpful, but what kind of beginning is the Fool?
Every possible kind.
The Fool is everything and nothing, Everyman and Nobody, he is the carefree adventure and the reckless enterprise, the
deep self exploration and the depressing downward spiral. He is the epitome of all beginnings. the beginning of Life and
the start of Destruction. The Fool should frighten as much as he inspires, because one never knows what to expect from
him
This thread is really good to get a better understanding of the Fool (especially the first pages).
I used to do not like this card.
Because I see the Fool as a naive person or outcome (myself being naive from time to time!). In love readings, I used to
interpret this card as ''don't be foolish here, look at the consequences''.
However, I started to receive this card a couple of months ago concerning my career. I can say that I totally relate to the
Fool's message now. In my case, the Fool means that I have to take a career switch and look at it optimistically. I want to
switch from health/research to project management and human resources administration.
And I feel like the Fool and wonder if it is a foolish decision and if I have chances in my applications regarding my
practical experience. I must say that I feel ''drawn'' into that new direction and at the same time, I *realize* this sudden
change and the ''foolish'' aspect in this decision. I asked if my soul wants to go in that direction, and I received this card,
and the rest of the spread suggested that it IS the good decision.
So I am getting a new perspective from this card: jumping into a new journey, being a bit fearless of the consequences
and trusting life even if your logic can't explain everything nor the outcome.
My best example is from a reading to a friend. She fell pregnant unplanned and got the Fool. She miscarried later.
However, a year later she fell pregnant again, this time planned and deeply wished for, and now she and her partner have
a beautiful baby boy. Since then, I've read the fool as the "step before step".
It's 0, not 1, so it's the very beginning of something new, when you're not necessarily ready, but a new life path is about
to unfold, if you follow trough. It's the opening of a new learning journey up until to the World, when you know everything
about that life path.
In your case, Brighteye, it could say that the thoughts you've started to have about changing careers are the Fool, the step
before you actually take the step to move on. It will be a major change and a completely new direction for you to learn
from and thrive with.
*** ETA: I realised now this is a very old thread so maybe you don't need the advise anymore, Brighteye! *** I love your
description, Kwaw, very touching. ***
FOOL + 8 CUPS
I was just doing some exchanges in the reading exchange forum here, and it dawned on me how similar the fool and
8.cups are.
Does anyone else see the similarities?
In the wild wood tarot the 8.cups has 'rebirth' as the name. I really like that name for that card, especially in the future
positions.
I once got the 8.cups for when I moved across the state for a new job. The job position ended up being a really powerful
spiritual journey instead because the boss I had I learned ended up being a 'soul mate' connection. I took a chance and
chose the rooming situation because it was 15 mins from work.
I kind of see the fool as preparing to leave and the 8.cups taking the leap of faith from the (7.cups) to move forward.
8.cups is a bit more brave than the fool, but still fearful.
I was just doing some exchanges in the reading exchange forum here, and it dawned on me how similar the fool and
8.cups are.
You're right! Nice catch! There are a lot of similarities, both wandering off, traveling, no knowing exactly where they're
going, following a celestial light, possibly pursuing a dream, the idea of renewal of purpose, etc. Of course that also makes
some of the differences clear as well.
The Fool is traveling in daylight, the 8/Cups (usually) by night. The Fool is looking up, the man in the 8/Cups is often
shown looking down. And the Fool isn't shown as leaving anything, while the 8/Cups guy is leaving those 8 cups. Which
highlights, I think, that the Fool is an innocent in this new beginning, while the 8/Cups guy (even if "reborn") has just
exited out of some experience or other. He is not going off on this trip a wide-eyed innocent, but as someone who knows
the world, knows himself a little. Even if, like the Fool, he's a dreamer following a dream, he's doing so "at last" not right
out the gate. So he's less likely to step over a cliff on this new journey
You're right! Nice catch! There are a lot of similarities, both wandering off, traveling, no knowing exactly where they're
going, following a celestial light, possibly pursuing a dream, the idea of renewal of purpose, etc. Of course that also
makes some of the differences clear as well.
The Fool is traveling in daylight, the 8/Cups (usually) by night. The Fool is looking up, the man in the 8/Cups is often
shown looking down. And the Fool isn't shown as leaving anything, while the 8/Cups guy is leaving those 8 cups. Which
highlights, I think, that the Fool is an innocent in this new beginning, while the 8/Cups guy (even if "reborn") has just
exited out of some experience or other. He is not going off on this trip a wide-eyed innocent, but as someone who knows
the world, knows himself a little. Even if, like the Fool, he's a dreamer following a dream, he's doing so "at last" not right
out the gate. So he's less likely to step over a cliff on this new journey
Yep! When the 8.cups came up for me I definitely did travel/move at night. I also like to see it as a more mature journey
than that of the fool.
One is disappointments..
One is trust..
One is searching .
One is adventuring.
One has expectations .
One has Faith...
One is clouded by thoughts, thinking , ego.
One is a blank.
I also like to see it as a more mature journey than that of the fool
I think that sums it up nicely. It's like this is the Fool at a later date, reborn into yet another re-start-journey, but this time
he's not so young--either literally or at heart.
I love this thread!
Whenever I buy a new deck, I look at each card from start to finish, and tell a story in my head. The Fool is the protagonist,
the beginning of the story. Yes, it's all about beginnings, potential, faith... But it's also about innocence, naivete, taking
things at face value.
I guess, to put it bluntly, the 8 of Cups is a bit more wisened, more world-hardy. Perhaps more cynical, since the blind
faith he felt as the Fool has now disappeared. Still hopeful, but now he's experienced hurt and heartache, and loss.
Again, this is an awesome thread!
The FOOL is on a quest...no expectations but will surrender to whatever comes along ...in his search for his /her holy
grail...
non resistant...
The 8 swords is not questing ...it's trying to control outer worldly situations according to preferred personal agenda's and
preferred outcomes...
a path of resistance...
One is a Major ... It is fated...accepted as it is...no personal attachment...
the other is in a self made mental prison...loaded with personal baggage...
One is IN IT ,but NOT IT...
The other is IN IT, and, trapped IN IT...
I see a link ... both cards encourage you to walk out into the unknown.
These do have strong similarities, and to me the difference is context: the 8c seems to be part of a specific timeline or
story or life, like 'and then...' leaving or moving on 'in reaction to' or 'after' or 'as a result of' something, whereas to me
The Fool just is, is moving, is not reacting or not-reacting, does not have the context of story to limit him or her or it or
them--more like 8c 'a story about a regular person' versus The Fool as the deity or pure energy or essence of that action,
you know?
THE FOOL AS TIMING
Ok, highly confused. I have checked a bit the forum here and I cant get to grips with it. Would the Fool mean, if it hasnt
happened yet, it will never happen (as it is the 'Zero') or it is already in the making *now*?
I acossiate the Fool with the NOW and the NEAR FUTURE, like NEXT!!
I'm with Isarma. The Fool is the eternal NOW. Right now, right this second, eternally in the present. There is no future,
there is no past, there is only the now.
What they said because the fool has nothing planned. He/she just on a whim says "Ok!" and they're off! There is no
thought process to what the fool does prior.
The fool could be now... that would be my first interpretation. It could also indicate that there is no specific time. Forward
or backwards the fools next step can be a path or the abyss and since his focus is not on his surroundings it can be either
one just as easilly.
Maybe another step must be taken before timing can be established.
hummm...the now, would that not mean if it hasnt already happened now, it will not, becuase the current situation is the
'status quo'?
if it's not now, perhaps it's the fool as unnumbered rather then zero, representing chaos, constant fluctuation. It could
mean too many variables are in play at the moment, so it's undetermined. Which leaves more space to free will to make
a difference I wouldn't easily associate the fool with status quo, to me he represents the exact opposite, saying anything
could happen!
this is so weired, I used a different deck and asked again - and again the Fool!! Still its not happening yet....or maybe I
am just not aware of it...hummm
oh my, I found the link:
http://www.tarotmoon.com/articles/Ti...questions.html
Approach #2 – All the things that need to happen first
This approach is credited to John Gilbert, Grandmaster, who often uses it as a demonstration at tarot conferences. Like
the narrative approach, it avoids giving a specific timeframe and uses a narrative answer format. However, it recognizes
that the number of things that may need to happen varies from case to case. In this method, one card is drawn first. This
card is not read directly (although it often seems to comment on the situation), but is only looked at to determine its
number. This card represents the number of things that would have to happen before the desired outcome can come to
pass. Then, the number of cards indicated are drawn to see what these things are, and each card is read accordingly.
Obviously, the more things that would need to happen (and the more reversals among them) the longer it will take and
the more unlikely the event is. However, it should be possible to reach the goal with enough determination and hard work.
In reading the first card, A-10 cards are given the number on the card. Trumps are also given the number on the card, and
the number is not reduced – so there can be up to 21 things that need to happen (!) – although this will be rare. Court
cards are read as follows: Page = 11, Knight = 12, Queen = 13, King = 14.
----->>> If you draw the Fool, it may mean that the event has already happened, or that there is nothing they can do to
bring about the desired event (and they are Foolish for even asking).
I dont think it has happened yet, so - will it never, oiiiii.....
I just thought I update this one here, there have been some devlepments in that situation and I pulled another card as in to
' Whats next' and guess what Its AGAIN the FOOL. Tssssss.....I am keeping an eye on how things are going
maybe the card is denoting that there is a choice to be made and it is in your hands now - like in the void of all matters.
Until you ignite the energy of the Fool - the timing is irrelevant - the choice is up to you.
You also reminded me of something I havent thought of or used in many many years! (thankyou) ... that the Fool to me
at one stage was a nine month gestation period - starting from the time of ignition - the seeding of the embryo.
But Im not sure how relevant that is to your question
I always take The Fool to mean it's not determined, because who knows when a Fool might act? In my timing readings, I
haven't had the Fool to mean now. Magician, yes. Fool, no. It ends up being more like, "Whenever" or "at some point".
I use The Fool as a void, or a door opening for you. In a reading, a space that is manifesting to new opportunities,
"soon" that will be showing to you. A space in your life that you'll soon see newness and you will be given opportunity
to move in that direction if you want.
I look at the card before and after to see if The Fool can link them together, as a bridge.
The Fool for me is anytime soon.
thanks for your posts, things have actually, quite surprisingly taken a new turn...so I will continue to look out whats going
on. Maybe thats what the Fools means, surprises, unexpected beginnings...
Interesting development so far Cherryberry (hope you are fine and all in general by the way! Been a long time!)
Have you thought of the "don't calculate" principle? To me the Fool can be seen as "simple minded" (not dumb, just
simple approach) in that he is very much in the now, so much so he isn't even calculating the next 5 minutes when he'll
get way too close (if not potentially over) that cliff? He goes where his heart pulls him (I can see him taking a big breath,
and just ... going towards what he feels pulled towards). Thus I see this in terms of timing as "don't calculate, don't plan,
takes you by surprise"... I think Uranus is my astrological association, and thus REBEL (and attack/change in what is
established/status quo)...?
I'm looking forward to your updates! I love it when people update things! (I'm so silly!)
The Fool is essentially unpredictable. That absolutely goes for trying to predict time. If you have other indications that
some event will occur, then keep your eyes open. It may well happen when you least expect it.
Interesting development so far Cherryberry (hope you are fine and all in general by the way! Been a long time!)
Hey there iseekserendipity, everything is fine here so far I paid the deposit to purchase my first flat and am spinning
around selecting furniture, wall colors, and wallpapers,...LOVE IT, my Canada holiday to visit my brother is approaching
and in general I am feeling fine
I will continue to update on this one (If there are actual developments
Your not in regards to 'not calculating' and gowing with the flow makes much sense, very much so. I certainly was an
surprising thing for me and it felt that it was very much a case of 'blurting out' what was on the mind Very 'Fool-Like'
The Fool is essentially unpredictable. That absolutely goes for trying to predict time. If you have other indications that
some event will occur, then keep your eyes open. It may well happen when you least expect it.
thats how the new development was indeed, I certainly didnt expect anything and got caught by surprise well said!
maybe the card is denoting that there is a choice to be made and it is in your hands now - like in the void of all matters.
Until you ignite the energy of the Fool - the timing is irrelevant - the choice is up to you.
You also reminded me of something I havent thought of or used in many many years! (thankyou) ... that the Fool to me at
one stage was a nine month gestation period - starting from the time of ignition - the seeding of the embryo.
But Im not sure how relevant that is to your question
oiiii, now the 9 months thing is an interesting one Also I believe timing IS irrelevant, choice up to me....it appeard so!
Humm, makes all sense
I always take The Fool to mean it's not determined, because who knows when a Fool might act? In my timing readings, I
haven't had the Fool to mean now. Magician, yes. Fool, no. It ends up being more like, "Whenever" or "at some point".
That what i also thought, that its pretty out in the open.....will see, will see
I use The Fool as a void, or a door opening for you. In a reading, a space that is manifesting to new opportunities,"soon"
that will be showing to you. A space in your life that you'll soon see newness and you will be given opportunity to move
in that direction if you want. I look at the card before and after to see if The Fool can link them together, as a bridge. The
Fool for me is anytime soon
new oportunities and anytime soon sounds about right, given the recent events, I will have a look out, if I draw the fool
again soon
Sounds like lots of fun! And thank you for the feedback: these are new developing insights on the Fool based on my own
relationship with it... It's nice to see that after 10 years of Tarot Love, I am capable of learning the cards (and not just
memorizing meanings)! Enjoy the trip!
I just got feedback from my querent.
I pulled The Fool for her when I tried to find out when she was going to find a job. I did her reading yesterday. She got a
job offer TODAY which she accepted. She starts next Monday. So, The Fool is definitely about getting something new
started VERY SOON, quickly...not in a few months or a year.
great! thanks for posting this!!! Interesting!
Seems to me that the Fool as a timing cue could mean "whenever' (when it doesn't actually mean "never"). He (or she)
might be seen as an expression of the idea that "time" as we experience it is an illusion. Or maybe, as an archetype of
universal innocence yet unborn, s/he just stands outside space and time. At any rate, I wouldn't rely on "them" (yes, both
of them) for this purpose.
I have checked a bit the forum here and I cant get to grips with it. Would the Fool mean, if it hasnt happened yet, it will
never happen (as it is the 'Zero') or it is already in the making *now*?
There are many different methods of doing Timing with the cards, probably why things feel confusing. The method I use,
the Courts don't represent a specific timeframe. Instead they say that once you (or the querent) resolve the issue related
to the card, THEN it will happen. Very soon after.
So if I asked a timing question and The Fool came up, it would say that as soon as the querent learns to have more faith
in the situation or in the others involved, lets go of any doubts and expects the best to come, THEN it will come. As soon
as he/she does so. In other words, it cannot happen until he/she does so. His/her doubts are preventing/blocking it from
happening.Once he/she lets go it will come.
Since how long he/she chooses to hold onto those doubts is totally up to him/her, that is the best answer that can be given
at the time. A more precise answer can't be given as how long he/she holds on to doubt is up to him/her. As soon as he/she
lets go it will happen.
Of course, when it comes to timing questions, it is best not to ask when something will happen unless you are SURE that
it will. Otherwise, it is illogical to ask the question and it can't be answered. Which just creates confusion. It's best not to
ask when something will happen unless you are sure it will. If not sure you can ask first what you need to know about if
it will happen.
OSHO ZEN STUDY GROUP: THE FOOL
"Moment to moment, and with every step, the Fool leaves the past behind. He carries nothing more than his purity,
innocence and trust, symbolized by the white rose in his hand."Osho Zen Tarot by Osho.
Looking at this card it feels as if the Fool is actually flying. He is barely touching the earth and yet seems held in a graceful
balance. I get the sense of pure freedom here; protected by Divine Love! The mist on the earth below him speaks to me
of the mysteries waiting to be discovered. The rainbow colors in his clothing speak to me of the infinite possibilties he
has....the entire spectrum of creation is his for the asking.
Free to let go. It is as if surrendering were a part of a dance. All that matters at that moment is capturing the beauty of the
rose. This fool will fall ever so gracefully.
Down below him is the road he must follow. He is unaware of his destiny. The pure rose was just bait.
I find it interesting the way the sky fades from a night time sky to a day time sky below. It reminds me that our souls live
free in the universe out there with the vast stars and this soul is ready to ascend for a new incarnation.
And he has no regard for his past - his intense and ecstatic present is all he needs, expects, or desires. Projections into past
or future don't even occur to him.
He has no ego "creatures" gnawing on his leg, trying to warn him of the dangers, or, even worse, trying to keep him from
his journey to consciousness.
His expression - beatific vision? Certainly a radical, absolute trust in the Universe he leaps toward. Joy. No fear. No
looking back. No parachute.
I need to look again at this deck. I got it in a trade a few months ago and became discouraged in what looked like the
necessity of learning an entirely different system.
If that's the case, I'll learn it. It's too compelling to leave on the shelf.
Good start!
To me the most interesting aspect of the card is that this is the only Fool I've ever seen who's actually stepped right off
the cliff and that there's a real abyss pictured below him. Compare with the Trust card. The Fool embodies one of the key
ideas in the worldview behind the whole deck
It is as if surrendering were a part of a dance
Exactly! It's the first step in living his whole life as a dance.
I also love the fact that the road he is going to journey down is beneath him fading into the distace (similar to the road on
Travelling).
It's as though he's going to float down (eventually) and start walking.
He is pure potential, isn't he - all possibilities combined. He has taken the leap of faith and the net will appear. I think
straight away of the other card with the character just floating (can't remember which right now and I'm at work and the
deck is at home but can't wait to join in!). Also makes me think of CS Lewis and Narnia - remember the children being
blown off the mountain down down into Narnia, and just floating along on the breath. And doesn't that remind you of Zen
meditation - be right here right now, in the moment, with the breath. All in balance, all possible, no judgment - he is the
space between the inbreath and outbreath. When he lands, he can start his journey in any way at all, and by then he is no
longer potential, but is specific direction.
I think straight away of the other card with the character just floating (can't remember which right now and I'm at work
and the deck is at home but can't wait to join in!).
"Trust" (The Knight of Water.)
"Trust" (The Knight of Water.)
You're so right! This card could easily be the Fool card - what a message. The leap is the thing....as the Commentary says.
Hard to take my eyes off of it....maybe I shouldn't!
He has no ego "creatures" gnawing on his leg, trying to warn him of the dangers, or, even worse, trying to keep him from
his journey to consciousness
Well said. I think this is a welcome contrast to other Fool cards where we see a dog or animal warning of certain danger.
Here it very much feels as if the Fool is free to explore. NO FEAR!!! "Perfect Love Casts out Fear"....
... The Fool embodies one of the key ideas in the worldview behind the whole deck.
YES!!! I agree. I love all of your responses here. One thing that has emerged is a consensus on the spirit of freedom and
liberation expressed in this card; and truly the whole deck.
I am going to start a thread for the next card. I'm not sure how you all feel about it, because I don't want to move too
fast...but at the same time, I am eager to explore each card and get it all "on the table".
A link to the next card...
I Existence
Anyone any good at symbolism? I'm never sure whether the author is purposely working on symbols even if they don't
say so, or whether the archetypal symbols just pop up given the subject, or whether the author just thought the picture
looked good!
Do we read anything into the fact that he is leaping from bare rock, and then downwards comes growth right down to the
river which looks quite lush - then through the gap away into the distance (future?). It looks like snowcapped mountains
to me. Our fool is in the realm of mists (mystery) between the earth and the sky.
I think it is good to start a new thread quite quickly, otherwise we will grow old together doing this. The only problem
may be the time differences, given that we come from all over the planet.
Anyone any good at symbolism? I'm never sure whether the author is purposely working on symbols even if they don't
say so, or whether the archetypal symbols just pop up given the subject, or whether the author just thought the picture
looked good!
From an intervew with Ma Deva Padma http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/learn..._mdpadma.shtml
What were his [Osho's] views on tarot, if any?
As I recall he was never big on esoteric secrecy or practices, his way was to open the mysteries so that humanity could
grow into a new species with greater presence, responsibility and intelligence, what he referred to as The New Man.
Aquarian vision to the max!
Don't worry too much about what appear to be "symbols." This deck lays everything right out in front of you. It's very
easy to read if you're open to what it's saying.
Now that is a comfort! Now I can concentrate on what I see and not worry about anything that I perhaps should be seeing
and don't.
I wonder if this fool is in some sense actually foolish for keeping his one foot on the ground. He seems to be floating, no
weight is actually on that foot which touches the ground, yet he seems to want to keep it there. Does it tie him to the past,
to tradition, or worldly concerns? Does he not know that his safety is from a higher place, that the air supports him instead
of the ground? I love Osho's interpretation of the fool on this card, but I feel as though he is showing us that all of the
potential of the fool is mixed, good and bad, freeing and binding
Never saw this before, but the way his collarbones are drawn it looks like his heart has leapt out of his chest. He is filled
with so much joy and love that it simply cannot be contained, as he himself can no longer be contained, experiencing the
freedom and liberation mentioned earlier. In comparison to other Fools, he does not carry a pouch--no secrets or worldly
possesions, no "baggage".
I also love the fact that the road he is going to journey down is beneath him fading into the distace (similar to the road
on Travelling). It's as though he's going to float down (eventually) and start walking.
or he could just walk down the cliff and ignore the rules of reality and unreality all together.
Oh, I do like the idea of ignoring the rules of reality and unreality. He is outside the norm, isn't he, so who says he has to
abide by our conventional ideas of space or time
This Fool totally defies convention and gravity for that matter. The ability to move mountains.
Becasue this deck is so vivid and unique, and yet so Tarot as inspired by the Rider Waite deck, I would like to directly
compare the osho zen tarot to the rider waite imagry, if this is unwelcome then let me know so i can remove my post(s)
therof.
starting with the fool, the imagry is very much the same, a man on a high cliff (represnting the mind) holding a flower.
Wherea st he RW fool may or may not walk off that cliff, perhaps he is there looking at the view, the Osho Zen tarot has
taken it to the next level and has the fool stepping off the cliff. The RW fool is still making the decision, the Osho Zen
fool has made the decision.
Becasue this deck is so vivid and unique, and yet so Tarot as inspired by the Rider Waite deck, I would like to directly
compare the osho zen tarot to the rider waite imagry, if this is unwelcome then let me know so i can remove my post(s)
therof. starting with the fool, the imagry is very much the same, a man on a high cliff (represnting the mind) holding a
flower. Wherea st he RW fool may or may not walk off that cliff, perhaps he is there looking at the view, the Osho Zen
tarot has taken it to the next level and has the fool stepping off the cliff. The RW fool is still making the decision, the Osho
Zen fool has made the decision.
another observation is that it is night in Osho and day in RWS. The RWS Fool seems ego-driven(to me), if he does crash
it may be related to not being able to get out of his own way. He's got baggage and a companion.
Osho Fool seems to be more in touch with his emotional life. Even aware of possibilities of subconscious dialogue, sees
dreams as information. No baggage, no companion, very much has let go of a material portion of himself, no shoe appears
on right leg.
The flowers have switched hands, from left to right, assertive in a different way, he knows what he is doing. There is a
path for him to follow down below, the RWS Fool has no path, just a likely drop.
This may seem a little wierd, but the mountains with snow at the distance seems to me to be floating on those clouds. I
always see an association with turning one's thoughts into action. I associate the cloud with the element air, wich is related
to the mind and thought. The mountains remind me of the element earth, the phisical world.
I don't know if it's a valid thought, but I see this card as the ability and liberty to take action on one's thoughts and, by
that, has the freedom of performing his decisions.
another observation is that it is night in Osho and day in RWS. The RWS Fool seems ego-driven(to me), if he does crash
it may be related to not being able to get out of his own way. He's got baggage and a companion. Osho Fool seems to be
more in touch with his emotional life. Even aware of possibilities of subconscious dialogue, sees dreams as information.
No baggage, no companion, very much has let go of a material portion of himself, no shoe appears on right leg.
The flowers have switched hands, from left to right, assertive in a different way, he knows what he is doing. There is a
path for him to follow down below, the RWS Fool has no path, just a likely drop.
I think these comments are very good. I love the rainbow harlequin pattern on the clothing of the Fool. Is that a rose or a
lotus he is holding? And do you think that's a path down there? At first blush I thought it was a river, giving us all four
elements symbolicly represented on this card.
This seems to me to be the most "traditional" of the majors in this deck. It even is titled "The Fool." Wasn't everything
else renamed?
bang on at the centre of the card in the snow there is a symbol of 3 with a cresent moon this symbol is of OM. it is an
ancient indian symbol denoting primeveal sound from which all things emerged. it is the symbol of lord shiva in the
hinduism and is often used in meditation. it is pronounced as home with a silent H.
thus it shows the begining of the deck from the OM as it is centre of the universe also the card suggest turn towards
spirituality or religion
Is that a rose or a lotus he is holding? And do you think that's a path down there? At first blush I thought it was a river,
giving us all four elements symbolicly represented on this card.
This seems to me to be the most "traditional" of the majors in this deck. It even is titled "The Fool." Wasn't everything
else renamed?
Your absolutely right...it certainly does look like a river, not sure why I said "path". As for the flower, I do not know.
Your comment, Master_Margarita, gave me great thought, and a fresh look. I really love how you saw all four elements
represented in this card, just wonderful!
To me, The Fool is often unattainable because I'm a very cautious, controlling and worried person. I have noticed that
people who often get this card do not even realize that they are falling.
It usually signifies a new job/ a new crush/ generally new feelings and experiences just waiting for the person to jump
into. But it also comes with a warning, sometimes being new can mean being taken advantage of and though Osho
encourages the foolish mindset, I sometimes choose to warn people about the situation if the surrounding cards call for
it.
Hi I finally bought the osho deck after much umming and ahhing.(i think the cards are very beautiful) I have been reading
through alot of the notes and trying to familiarise myself with the cards. To me this fool represents joy in the moment i
remember the fool being refered to as one of true innocence who connects completely with the now-nirvana--I dont know
where this as many other references i make comes from originally but this is my impression of him .
Nirvana as in living in the now -experiencing the joy of the moment.
What others may see as reckless
I find the book has two really useful insights:
"Don't try to create a wall of knowledge around you"
"Even if you are cheated and deceived and robbed, let it happen, because that which is really yours cannot be robbed from
you..."
MYTHIC STUDY – THE FOOL
I always look at a card’s image before I read its meaning to see what pops out at me; to see if I get the sense of the meaning
through it’s image. I’m only sometimes partially correct. Maybe I focus only on a minor aspect of the card, who knows….
Anyway, what popped out at me from the image of The Fool’s card was that dark cave that he emerged from. It was the
first thing I noticed before the image of The Fool himself. I’m just curious, what pops for all of you when you look at the
Fool card?
This card kind of confuses me a bit. I don’t know whether to take it as a good message or bad one. When I read about
Dionysos, the god of wine, I understand why he is used to represent the Fool. The Fool to me, evokes a sense of loss of
self control, lack of level-headedness, not thinking about what he’s about to do, throwing caution to the wind and lets
what will happen, just happen. In Dionysos’ story, he was the same way it seems. God of wine (intoxication, losing
control), being struck with madness by Hera and wandering the world. To me, this card evokes those thoughts in me,
more so than that of it’s meaning that a change is in order and a risk must be taken.
I guess what I’m wondering is, does the Fool card always mean something about change or can it be interpreted along
those other lines?
This is my favourite card in the deck. Dionysos, the divine madman, the inspired god of theatre and creative inspiration
(where Apollo would be the god of creative endeavour and more rational realisation), the ecstatic. Twice-born, so eternally
renewed and rejuvenated, some of his story of death and resurrection served as model to the Christian myth.
We can follow his trace throughout history - he inspired all Greek Tragedy, the founding public art of the West, he
whispered his lines to Racine, he is peripatetic Troubadour, Milton's Comus, Arthur Rimbaud, Jack Kerouac, Kurt
Cobain...he breathes in every creative crazy genius, drunk, traveller, dancer. He has no ties but his own non-existent wings
and his direct link to the gods.
We see him here, the ever-youthful god, crowned with ivy - the poor man's laurel and the symbol of Greek Theatre. He
wears animal skins, whatever he could hunt or scavenge, but they adorn him better than purple does a king. The eagle
above his head sits on a branch, watchful but unmoving - the Fool will have to soar with the strength and belief of his
heart - but perhaps, just perhaps, as he steps off, the eagle will fly and rescue him, one more time, from his inspired and
joyous folly and set him on his feet, on the road below.
The path below winds through mountains towards the sun. Reminds me of On the Road.
Is he at the beginning of the deck? I see him everywhere and nowhere. The Walker between the Worlds of inspiration and
daily life, of craziness and normality, of drink and sobriety, of sexual ecstasy and abstinence, of debauch and temperance,
between heaven and hell - if such categories existed for him - they do not, which is why he exists in-between.
When I first saw these cards I was surprised and intrigued to see the way the traditional symbols/ideas are altered. I like
this, because it helps you to re-think and expand your ideas.
The Fool archetype is associated with madness - the Fool in Shakespeare is regarded as semi-lunatic, but it means he can
say sharply critical things in a way no one else can. In King Lear theres a moment when the King beings to realise what
he's doing and give him a warning. At other times, people comment that he's actually quite wise. He speaks in riddles,
songs, poetry and apparent nonesne that is actually great insight. Bit like a comedian - he can do it, because he also makes
people laugh.
Society thinks walking into the unkown (off a cliff) is mad. And if you dare to do it, by meditating or learning esoteric
subjects like Tarot, you are a madman. The intoxication of Dionysus is divine; the wine represents spiritual ascension,
the dissolution of boundaries and rigidities and assumptions of society and ego. The eagle is a higher aspect of Scorpio,
the sex energy, implying psycho-sexual elevation. It was also the bird associated with Zeus, who as king of the gods
implied ultimate divinity.
However, getting back to my initial remarks: what surprises me with these cards is the way they are non-hierachical.
Thus, Dionysus was not at all the ultimate god, but here he is representing the ultimate card. And you see other characters
who aren't especially powerful or prominent, representing the major arcana principles. Its an interesting process because
- like the Fool, and like Dionysus - it breaks down the patterns of normal/traditional thinking.
Interesting that Daizy saw the cave prior to the figure.
I definetly focus on the dancing fool. He is dancing on the edge, perhaps a silly thing to do. But who doesn't like risks?
There's a little Evel Kineval in all of us (I hope). His body language is very optimistic to me. And he's totally
unemcumbered by "stuff"....even more so that other deck's Fools who might carry at least a little sack. This Fool embodies
not only risk for me but spontinaety (sp?). He's the impulse of the moment. He's that time when we were sitting around
at a restaurant at 10PM and decided we'd drive from LA to San Francisco right then (oh to be young again). He's the
perpetual youth in even old folks like me. Here's my list of keywords for the guy himself:
Youth, sponteneousness, naivte, risk, courage, unconventionality, don't care what the neighbor's say, charm, madness,
euphoria, trips (both mental and physical) of discovery (versus going to visit the relatives for the ump-teenth time),
jester/comedian, peter pan (not always a good thing) , no goal - moving for the sake of moving, irresponsible, play and
games, lack of depth and learning
I thought everyone had wonderful insights and provided me with lots of stuff to ponder.
The other thing that pops out to me is this guy's enviornment. It's pretty barren. He may be eating those grape leaves on
his head before the day is out. But there is water and the sun seems to be rising, so it should be OK.
Note: I too read the leaves on his head as ivy at first, but if he's Dionysos they pretty well have to be grape leaves.
When I read my Mythic Tarot book, it points out his goat's horns. Boy, I sure missed that!!
I find a lot of comedy in this card. It feels like this guy has the ability to laugh at himself and his environment. IMHO,
humor often drives a point home far better than dour "thou shalt" type of teaching. In our culture, late night comics are
probably as influential as heavyweight pundits.
Seems I've been looking at the Fool more negatively than positively. Of course it can be negative; jumping into something
without considering the consequences etc... but without some of the fool within us, life would be mundane, we'd never
move forward....
We could also look at "Fool moments" in our own lives. One I can't forget is being in a large meeting at the dreaded werk.
I had a spontaneous reaction to one of the topics but I knew blabbing out my two cents was not a good idea. I sat there
for maybe 10 minutes trying to keep that damn Fool thought contained and then ended up blurting it out. Yup....made a
complete idiot of myself.
I just remembered that some have assigned the planet Uranus to the Fool.
I've always wondered about that and just had one of those "boing" moments. Of course!! It now makes sense. I did
astrology before I got started in tarot. More keywords (via uranus)
Unconventional, lightening speed, refreshing, collective subconcious re: beliefs, invention, innovation
I like The Fool. When I look at this card I get a feeling of vibrant carefree energy of the come dance with me kind I also
think of the attached Titan painting which could have been inspiration for this card.
It is a lovely painting, isn't it, Emeraldgirl? I have a postcard of it on my desk. Free and generous Dionysos, loving the
girl a man had ruthlessly abandoned after she'd helped him. Talk about being swept off your feet
in vino veritas, And as the Fool may state the truth where other may not, so might acting the Fool allow one to find a true
aspect of himself.
I think it is ivy. The "wine god" aspect of Dionysos is a very late reduction from what was a multi-faceted god (the
reduction operated by association with the Roman Bacchus). In classical times and even late in Hellenistic times, Dionysos
was better known as the god of tragic theatre, inspiration and ecstatic rites. His followers might have been drunk and
drugged (probably both), but he is generally represented as a young god, sometimes mounting a leopard or a dolphin, and
often wearing a crown of ivy leaves. He is carefree and full of inspiration, died and was reborn - he drank wine, loved
girls, and inspired bards and dramatists: these are the aspects the Greeks wrote about the most and left us in their pottery
and sculpture . Unfortunately, his late identification with the Roman god of wine, Bacchus (basically because the staid
Romans had no idea what to do with such a free Greek spirit) has left its trace in popular imagination. But the wonderful
Dionysos is much more than that!
A crown of ivy was given to winners of poetry and tragic theatre contests in classical times, so it is natural that Dionysos
should be wearing one. Ivy is free and untamed, after all...
Isn't that Dionysus is the god of all wet things growing and grapes are just one of those things? Whereas someone else (I
don't remember) is god of dry things growing?
Sorry - forgot to write - of course!! - that Dionysos is said to have invented wine on mount Nysa. So there is a wine link,
and of course wine was essential in Greek domestic and religious life (because of libations).
But that was only one of his attributes - the association to tragic theatre and ecstatic rites is more prominent in literature
and art. The Romans retained only the wine element.
So I should have said: it could be ivy or vine leaves!!
I think the word intoxication, in its widest meaning, resumes all his aspects - poetic inspiration, dance, theatre, his own
tragic story, lust for life and love, drinking, drugs,.........
Just wanted to say how much I am enjoying the posts on this and looking forward to studying all the other cards.
I think I read somewhere that Dionysas was also considered a death god. I guess from the ladies, tearing each other apart?
Not sure, any thoughts?
Also I know all the gods traveled from Olympus, but wasn't he known for always going off into the wilderness? What a
great fool card.
One more 'quality' to include here, which may not be directly related to the myths or tarot traditions but is certainly
relevant. Being *child-like*.
I read somewhere recently how children enjoy what life offers them: take simple delight in a spray of water on a hot day,
a scary movie when you can hide behind the couch, playing 'catch', making sand-pies....all very very simple stuff that
they just love.
Recent example: walking in the mountains, three children rushing down the path, one of them singing openly and happily.
Few minutes later I see the concerned parents who start shouting 'wait! stop' etc etc. Say to me "have you just seen some
children?" Me: "yes, they're fine!"
I haven't read (yet) that he was the death god, I got the impression the women tearing each other apart was more out of
desire. He was very handsome and very sexual so I got the impression these women lost control of their senses, caught
up in some kind of sensual, sexual frenzy....that was the effect he had on them....I could be wrong....
One more 'quality' to include here, which may not be directly related to the myths or tarot traditions but is certainly
relevant. Being *child-like*
You're right - and this Fool certainly looks child-like. Even to look at him is a holiday...
Not so far away from the myth: Dionysos is the youthful god. And not too far from the Fool new-style as inaugurated by
Waite and Colman Smith.
I think the reference to death in his myth comes from the fact he died, went to the Underworld, and was reborn a second
time. Hence one of his names was "the Twice-Born".
He was intimate with life - and with death: and belonged somewhere between the two.
To me, the Fool in the mythic deck is childlike and innocent and IMHO he appears more foolish than he appears is some
other decks, It is a big cliff he is about to walk off..yet the view on his face is one of adoration, bliss and excitement. He
is clothed in animal furs and has an ivy crown. It is like he has crowned himself the king of his own world in his own
way. This suggests a sort of bravado and self-confidence, that to me brings the old adage to mind: "pride cometh before
a fall."
The eagle suggests wisdom and the eagle seems to be watching him with an attitude that speaks volumnes.
The one thing I cannot see on this card is if the sun is setting or rising. In each reading, I change my mind here. Mostly I
see it as a setting sun, but this doesn't gell with the fool's expression (he seems to be looking at the sun) which seems to
suggest the sun is rising...Sometimes I see him as so foolish that he doesn't care one iota about where the sun is in the sky
and would be setting out from his journey whether it is Sun Up or Sun Down.
The cave that the fool is emerging from also (to me) seems like the same cave used in the card Strength.
The other thing that that strikes me is that the fool here carries no bad, no wand to hold his bag. He is dressed lightly and
has bare feet. To me this speaks that he is very ill-prepared for his journey.
I actually intepret this card as I would in some other decks for the reversal of the fool - ie more negative...which often
leaves me stumped when this card comes up reversed...For mostly I think the fool is quite silly and ill-prepared in the
upright version..so in a reversal I often see him cartwheeling out of control so to me this indicates he has recently begun
his journey and already lost his footing..
I was going to suggest that the Emperor is maybe the best polar *opposite* to the Fool: rational, governing, controlling,
concerned with power and dominion. Now I've had a quick look throught the pack I've discovered something else: I
*think* the only two cards also containing the eagle are the Emperor and the Hanged Man. I doubt if Liz Greene was
working at that kind of level; you can try and over-interpret and it becomes contrived and not very useful.
But there it is: 3 cards with the eagle, and IMO two of them are polar opposites.
(I like the Bacchus and Ariadne painting too. I enjoy seeing it when I'm in London and visit the National Gallery).
I think it is a good link between Dionysos and the fool. Dionysos is linked with wine, with theater but what I find more
to the point is that he is also a cross-dresser. So, he knows how to party wherever he is! To me, Dionysos know how to
have a lot of fun!
hi i've just started learning my mythic tarot cards cos i've nearly finish my school exams.
i've read so many interesting stuff about the fool from all of you.
i noticed in the card of the fool that that colours used are very earthy, neutral - brown, yellow etc - dry, barren colours.
However the only 'life' colour in the picture are the leaves. Perhaps, it's suggesting something like starting new. I can't
think of anymore things to say about it but i think there might be more about it...
for me, the FOOL always represents a infinity of possibilities, he is independent, he is optimistic, he is fool, anything can
happen, and it's a warning as well, "do not get lost in the beatiful chaos of your path"
Dionysus is such a great choice for the fool...the ecstic festivals etc held in his honour really make me think of "fool"
behaviour. The need to sometimes just let it all go and take on whatever comes, leave your responsibilities behind.
It was said that wherever he went, he could stir people into ecstasy, causing them to leave their homes, drop their chores,
and even forget their kids, going on mad dancing and drinking jags...people were even said to dance themselves to death...
eventually, they would return...but men of anxcient Greece used to fear that their wives would go off with one of these
Dionysian cults and never return!
That sums up the fool to me...
In the workbook, I coloured the ravine as a velley...he's about to plunge into lush green...guess I take a rather positive
view of hedonism, eh
A young man, dressed in various animal skins, dances at the edge of a precipice. He wears an ivy wreath in his hair and
goat horns protrude from his brow. He appears to have just come from the cave behind him. An eagle perches on a branch
above the cave's entrance. The landscape around him is barren as dawn breaks in the distance.
Eagle:
watches over the Fool as he prepares to plunge into the unknown
as “king of birds,” it’s the symbolic animal of Zeus
is associated with energy, renewal, contemplation, acuity of vision, the spiritual principle, ascension, inspiration, and
release from bondage
“to be eagle-eyed” is to have sharp vision or to be able to see every detail
Cave:
represents the past
symbolizes the womb so the coming out of a cave can symbolize birth or rebirth
may indicate the primitive part of the self or the subconscious
a place of initiation and the second birth
passing through a cave represents a change of state
Goat Horns:
suggest that the Fool is driven by instinct
the goat is sacred to Dionysus
a goat horn is the origin of the cornucopia as a symbol of the bounty of nature
representation of vitality and creative energy
Animal Skins:
suggest a sixth sense or an animal instinct that those who are used to concrete reality don’t recognize; as the son of Zeus,
he’s in tune with his father’s spirit, but it isn’t always clear when the impulse strikes whether it comes from Zeus or from
a darker place
a means of acquiring the power of the animal, putting the wearer in touch with the animals and with their instinctual
knowledge
Ivy:
some plants are poisonous while others are medicinal
was considered as cooling and inspiring profound thoughts, thereby compensating for the heat-inducing wine
its cling represents true love and friendship
its robustness is associated with the clandestine enjoyment of life’s pleasures; revelry
symbol of the eternal life of the soul after the death of the body
clinging dependence, attachment, constant affection, friendship
Dionysus:
Hera drove him mad
he was twice born
he brought drunken ecstasy and spiritual redemption to those who were willing to relinquish their attachment to worldly
power and wealth
ecstatic dance was associated with the followers of Dionysus, and the Fool dances in ecstatic abandonment at the edge of
a precipice
"Dionysian" is generally used to express sensual and irrational impulses in man, one of which is to leap into the unknown;
those who are bound to the world of form, facts and logical order call this madness, although it can be seen as an impulse
toward change
he represents the potentially irrational impulse to open one’s life to the unknown; these impulses can be destructive and/or
creative; to resist or to ignore them is to deny all that is youthful, creative and in touch with that which is greater than
ourselves
the Fool is ambivalent because there is no guarantee that once the journey begins, the destination will be reached safely
or at all
Fools:
“children and fools speak the truth” means that children and foolish people have a tendency to say what is true, because
they haven’t learned that it may be prudent to do otherwise
“a fool and his money are soon parted” means that foolish people are easily swindled or persuaded to waste their money
“a fool at forty is a fool indeed” means that people who haven’t gained the wisdom of experience by the time they reach
middle age are likely to remain fools for the rest of their lives
“a fool may give a wise man counsel” means that people are often able to give good advice to those who are considered
to be intellectually superior
“fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me” means the victim of a hoax or swindle on one occasion may
justifiably blame the perpetrator, but those who fall victim a second time have only themselves to blame
“a fool’s bolt is soon shot” means that foolish people act hastily and thus waste their efforts
“fools rush in where angels fear to tread” means that foolish people often act recklessly or impetuously in situations that
others would approach with caution or avoid altogether
“fortune favors fools” means that foolish people often have good luck, or succeed by chance
“young folks think old folks to be fools, but old folks know young folks to be fools” means that young people think they
are wiser than their elders, but the opposite is true
I completed the Fool card in the Mythic Tarot Workbook on 3 Aug 91. I used Jade as my key color and made the animal
skins many different colors. This is what I wrote at the time:
Quote:
Jade reflects the need to grow. The multicolored garment reflects independence (in leaving the womb), youthful energy,
clearness of mind and purpose which are within yet unknown and not fully developed, determination combined with
uncertainty
I love this depiction of The Fool. It's like the whole world is literally laid out before him. The link to Dionysus works so
well and the idea that really captures me is that Dionysus was twice born. For me this card conveys that idea that we can
be born again, that we can die to our old selves and be 're-born' more in alignment with our 'true' self. I often associate
The Fool with travel because it's that concept of leaping into the unknown and discovering new things and, as a result,
new things about ourself. When I first started working with tarot I read for a lot of travellers and this card came up very
often. The theme of many of those readings was about how the querant had the opportunity to rediscover their true self
away from the pressures of family and the structured world which they'd left behind. For me, the cave also represents that
sheltered life we leave behind when we venture out into the world.
When I coloured this card in my workbook I had a lot more green in the landscape because, for me, it conveyed a real
sense of growth.
FOOL AS AN ANSWER TO A QUESTION
I asked a question, and the first card for an answer is Fool. Should I consider that this means my question is a foolish one,
I am being foolish to ask such a question, or should I stay with the idea that Fool means it's time to think outside the box,
or even be childish to get my answer?
Your thoughts are very much appreciated.
I asked a question, and the first card for an answer is Fool. Should I consider that this means my question is a foolish
one,
Was that your first instinctive feeling when you first saw the card come out? if so, then probably yes.
If you were grasping about for a meaning when you came up with that, then probably no.
Without knowing the question it will be pretty hard to interpret the card for that given question, and only when we start
suggesting interpretations will you be able to run them by your inner self and see which one gets the strongest reaction.
I love the Fool card in my decks - it is always such a happy, silly (in a good way) person, so I could never think of it as
anything negative. Joy of life is always my feeling. But in books, I have often read that when Fool comes up, it means
one is being foolish, or the ? is foolish.
Go with my feeling or the book?
Oh, and the ? is basic - will this happen? Fool came up first.
Perhaps the Fool is saying in that context: It will only happen if you make that "leap of faith".
Thank you. May be, that is exactly what I needed to see.
The Fool and I have... an interesting relationship. It appears to me when I am not to know. I'm not entirely sure if this is
just "I don't know," "I don't know yet." or "I can't tell you that because you're not ready (or "you don't really want to
know.")
This happened to me only when I was starting out; I haven't seen the Fool for questions I myself have asked literally since
I started reading tarot.
Do you, possibly subconsciously, not want the answer to your question or are not prepared for it?
The Fool and I have... an interesting relationship. It appears to me when I am not to know. I'm not entirely sure if this is
just "I don't know," "I don't know yet." or "I can't tell you that because you're not ready (or "you don't really want to
know.")
This happened to me only when I was starting out; I haven't seen the Fool for questions I myself have asked literally since
I started reading tarot.
Do you, possibly subconsciously, not want the answer to your question or are not prepared for it?
Oh, that is a GOOD answer! Never thought about it that way. I had Fool come up in my answer readings a few times, but
it seems only when I ask a question on a certain topic. I wonder ...
Thank you so much for sharing this!
"....or should I stay with the idea that Fool means it's time to think outside the box, or even be childish to get my answer?"
Not only think outside the box, think WAY outside the box lol. Remember the Fool is AIR, he's the main character that
passes thru all the other cards, he's everywhere at once, and nowhere at once....
I love the Fool card in my decks - it is always such a happy, silly (in a good way) person, so I could never think of it as
anything negative. Joy of life is always my feeling. But in books, I have often read that when Fool comes up, it means one
is being foolish, or the ? is foolish.
Go with my feeling or the book?
Oh, and the ? is basic - will this happen? Fool came up first
In my experience, I was asking about a rather complicated friend... and doing the reading two separate times, I had the
Fool pop up and deny me an answer. Pretty much same query, slightly differently worded. Seems you are not alone in
this phenomena.
Quite welcome, hope it helps. It's nice being useful.
I asked a question, and the first card for an answer is Fool. Should I consider that this means my question is a foolish
one, I am being foolish to ask such a question, or should I stay with the idea that Fool means it's time to think outside the
box, or even be childish to get my answer?
Your thoughts are very much appreciated.
You should stick with what your feelings and instincts tell you the card is saying. When you can think of more than one
thing it can mean, the only way to know is to follow your feelings. Only you can do that. You have to feel it inside.
The Fool almost never means someone is being foolish to me. I don't have that meaning for it. But once it did come up
and I knew it meant that. No one can tell you THE answer, You can only know that from inside of you. Also, what the
card means is deeply related to what the question was. It can mean differnt things in response to different questions...as
can any card.
For whatever it means to your question, my traditionaly meaning for the card is none of the above. To me it is about a
childlike faith in life, the faith of a child who has never been hurt by life yet and has full optimism that things will always
go her way. Total faith in lif eand belief that life will always be on your side. Feeling at one with the universe and
expecting things to go your way and to be lucky. for me the term "Fool" is ironic as it is one of the wisest states we can
ever be in. We attract to us what we most expect, so expecting the best leads to the best consequeneces in our lives. But
then someitmes in life, we get hurt "growing up" and lose some of our complete faith in life....and then the ideal is to heal
all that so we can get back to that state once again.
Oh, Babs, that is a GREAT post! Thank you very much!
I agree with others who've brought up the possible necessity for a 'leap of faith.' Also:
The Fool almost never means someone is being foolish to me.
Totally in agreement here. I think The Fool is a card that can often be boiled down to a simplistic meaning like that but
really, The Fool is no bumbling idiot. In my book he's more of a romantic, idealistic travelling poet of sorts. No, he may
not have all the answers and he may not yet have the ability to build something stable for his long-term future, but he can
teach us a lot about how to live life in a care-free, spontaneous way.
PAGES AND FOOL
An observation...Although the Pages all have clearly defined identities, they share the Fools lust for life and inexperience.
The Pages, like the Fool, jump in headlong and kind of "learn as they go". Like the Fool, they "do" first
I also tend to "mix" the Pages with the Fool spirit of adventure and immature approach to things. I get the lust as well, the
eagerness to go there and try regardless!! However, I also add to Pages the sense of news. To me, they often come as
messangers, bringing new info be it emotional, educational, etc. And Pages usually come as representing other people
and the Fool usually comes as relating to the sitter. But yes, that could change depending on the question and spread. Nice
thread
The pages have innocence and can-do attitude, yet I think they explore and plan in a more conscious manner than the
Fool, even if immature. The Fool just goes for it and sees what happens, always responding to his environment and
experiences without much if any forethought. The pages make decisions, have a sense of purpose and explore life,
especially in the particular realm of their suit. They are learning, the Fool not always.
The other difference between Pages and the Fool is that we know that the Pages have adults watching and teaching them.
The Fool is on his own and fairly aimless; meaning that everything is new and unknown to him, including his
path/direction/future.
Each of the pages has a direction (swords, wands, pents, cups) and more knowledgeable folk to guide them (knights,
kings, queens)--which doesn't erase the fact that they're complete novices, taking chances and making mistakes, but it
does mean that unlike the Fool, they don't have to carry everything they might need for every possible expediency with
them.
Totally. The Pages have individual identities and clearly defined missions. I guess I just meant they share that certain
"free spirit" with the fool.
I love this thread! I recently got The Fool and the Page of Pentacles in a reading and had to smile. For me the Fool is a
wonderful free spirit. I love seeing this card! I don't think it's ever concerned me to see it... much the contrary, it's a sign
of freer times to come. The Pages for me always seem to have a sweetness about them. But since they are learning I
broadly throw them in the same pot as the Fool and Aces... there is a freshness about them all. I say "freshness" because
I don't think any of them always mean "brand new, never been ventured". I have seen each in relation to a relationship
being refreshed, resurrected, renewed, etc. I think all have an innocence to them in that they let go of baggage, open their
arms (or reach up) and say, "Where to next?"
I agree, though, that it seems that Pages have a focus of what they are learning where the Fool is basically arms wide
open, sun on his face, and just steps...
THE FOOL AS A DESIRED SITUATION
How can this be interpreted as a desired romantic situation? I can see it as excitement over a new journey, confidence
about an uncertain situation, or maybe just being foolish ( or would that be reversed)?
it could be being foolish but that going to the extent that you are actually risk taking and a bit reckless becomes the
reversed Fool.
I would also add to your good list of situations, new beginnings. its a romantic situation just starting out. its not deep love
yet and maybe a bit awkward, but has promise. Will they call / text again? that sort of thing
I see! Thank you so much. being that it is the start of the journey, it can go both ways, no?
I agree with danieljuk.
A time to be lighthearted and free of social conventions. To go with the flow and enjoy the journey. Also, to make that
leap that may feel foolish or scary because you don't know what the outcome is.
At least, that is how I would read this.
Perhaps a desire to feel innocent again, when you were so sure of your feelings and ready to take that leap...and not
worried about getting hurt or being rejected. A desire for a relationship where you can be unhindered and carefree, where
you can love openly and without reserve. Complete inhibition.
How can this be interpreted as a desired romantic situation? I can see it as excitement over a new journey, confidence
about an uncertain situation, or maybe just being foolish ( or would that be reversed)?
Putting it bluntly -- I see the Fool as no-strings "fooling around" before people go their separate ways.
I'd say that this might pertain to someone who has a tendency to over-think romantic situations to the point that they ruin
the whole experience so they just wish that for once they could throw caution to the winds and just go for it.
Or maybe a situation where the woman isn't on the pill or another always-in-place birth control method so they wish it
were possible to just have sex whenever they felt the urge, rather than having to worry about some method of
contraception.
I think I'd go for the light-hearted, carefree interpretation... I like SA12's suggestion as well.
To offer something else:
Maybe the desired situation is something totally unexpected? Something way out of left-field?
I agree with danieljuk. A time to be lighthearted and free of social conventions. To go with the flow and enjoy the journey.
Also, to make that leap that may feel foolish or scary because you don't know what the outcome is. At least, that is how I
would read this
Going with the flow. That's a nice way of looking at it!
Perhaps a desire to feel innocent again, when you were so sure of your feelings and ready to take that leap...and not
worried about getting hurt or being rejected. A desire for a relationship where you can be unhindered and carefree,
where you can love openly and without reserve. Complete inhibition.
Complete inhibition!! I like the innocence that is coming from this card.
Putting it bluntly -- I see the Fool as no-strings "fooling around" before people go their separate ways.
Ooohh, yes! This is a very good observation!
I'd say that this might pertain to someone who has a tendency to over-think romantic situations to the point that they ruin
the whole experience so they just wish that for once they could throw caution to the winds and just go for it. Or maybe a
situation where the woman isn't on the pill or another always-in-place birth control method so they wish it were possible
to just have sex whenever they felt the urge, rather than having to worry about some method of contraception
This is very good. i could see this for someone who like you said, analyzes romantic situations too much. Almost a need
to feel like a fool just to release themselves from the trap of "experience"?
I think I'd go for the light-hearted, carefree interpretation... I like SA12's suggestion as well. To offer something else:
Maybe the desired situation is something totally unexpected? Something way out of left-field?
I can see this. Maybe x comes in expecting the relationship to be operating on a certain level ( fooling around, etc) only
to realize that is becoming something entirely different?
How can this be interpreted as a desired romantic situation?
Escape, perhaps, or escapism.
I can see it as excitement over a new journey, confidence about an uncertain situation, or maybe just being foolish ( or
would that be reversed)?
Or they are no longer interested in doing things (or relationships) the same way - they want to start afresh, and with the
kinds of people they haven't been involved with before. In extreme cases, it might even indicate the beginnings of a
change of sexual preference.
Experementing, trying new things with either new or exisiting lover/partner. Or the desire to want to try new things,
intimatly, excitment, hesitation but drive to achieve.
To come out of it stress free, worry free, exonerated, free from any suspicion, to come out of it squeaky clean, no
responsibility.
The situation that is desired is no-strings, no-consequences, no-guilt, no hurt feelings on either side, no regrets, let's just
take each day as it comes and be in the moment and not worry about the future.
To many take the name of the card to figuratively. "Fool", does not mean they are the fool, others may see it that way
because they do not share the same opinions. This person will follow their beliefs, they are a free soul, they are not a
sheep that follows the flock. A true free thinker, someone who lives outside of the box and does not care what you think.
Desired situation would be to follow their heart.
These are some really great responses and I can see the common thread here: freedom. Freedom to do follow your heart's
desire.
Escape, perhaps, or escapism. Or they are no longer interested in doing things (or relationships) the same way - they
want to start afresh, and with the kinds of people they haven't been involved with before. In extreme cases, it might even
indicate the beginnings of a change of sexual preference.
It's interesting you say trying out different types of people because the relationship in question has an "opposites attract"
thing going on.
Experementing, trying new things with either new or exisiting lover/partner. Or the desire to want to try new things,
intimatly, excitment, hesitation but drive to achieve.
I can see the initial hesitation in the Fool.
The situation that is desired is no-strings, no-consequences, no-guilt, no hurt feelings on either side, no regrets, let's just
take each day as it comes and be in the moment and not worry about the future.
This is a good way of looking at this!
To come out of it stress free, worry free, exonerated, free from any suspicion, to come out of it squeaky clean, no
responsibility
Well, one party seems to be at the end of their rope relationship wise. Made too many mistakes with past lovers. I could
see your interpretation as a chance to redeem themselves by taking a leap of faith on an unexpected, brand new person.
There is a lot of hope in your interpretation.
To many take the name of the card to figuratively. "Fool", does not mean they are the fool, others may see it that way
because they do not share the same opinions. This person will follow their beliefs, they are a free soul, they are not a
sheep that follows the flock. A true free thinker, someone who lives outside of the box and does not care what you think.
Desired situation would be to follow their heart.
I think the relationship in question is illustrating this by their choice of partner.
DO FOOL AND 10 OF PENTACLES CANCEL EACH OTHER OUT
a good while ago i drew a few cards because i wanted to know how someone felt about some relationship. they were the
fool, the 10 of pentacles and the ace of cups.
the fool is a non-conformist and doesn't like to be hemmed in, perhaps he doesn't even like committed relationships. i can
see how that might go with the ace of cups, but the 10 of pentacles in this deck (nigel jackson) shows a family. now this
could either point to a desire for commitment - or the relationship makes them feel grounded and safe - or they see you
as part of their family. which still leaves me wondering about the fool. would he be one to go to sunday dinners with
friends' siblings and parents? i don't know ...
Just a thought, but... Maybe the Fool here doesn't refer specifically to a person, but to an unexpected change from an
attitude of irreverence toward one that accepts stability and security? This seems to be seconded by that Ace of Cups--a
new beginning.
Just a thought, but... Maybe the Fool here doesn't refer specifically to a person, but to an unexpected change from an
attitude of irreverence toward one that accepts stability and security? This seems to be seconded by that Ace of Cups--a
new beginning.
oh - maybe... although i don't know if irreverance is the right word - rather more something that this person never
considered before or never thought possible.
My first thoughts when looking at these cards...... What if the fool’s adventurous spirit initiated a strong need to seek out
and discover a community, organization or place of residence where he would feel loved, needed and part of the
community. It’s almost as if the heart of the matter is genetically rooted to seek, develop and create a foundation he can
call home.
the fool is a non-conformist and doesn't like to be hemmed in, perhaps he doesn't even like committed relationships
This isn't exactly it. The Fool is a blank slate, an open book. Open to *anything*. He's not rebelling or fighting
ANYTHING. Yes, he likes to run after butterflies and dart off the path to roll down hills, but, like a child, whatever you
tell him, he'll believe. That includes telling him how wonderful a committed relationship is. He's open to learning this and
being turned onto that path. He can very quickly become a convert to any new religion or lifestyle.
Keep in mind, as well, that 10/Pents isn't just about committing to a wife and kids, it's about committing to a TRADITION,
and family that can trace it's roots and heritage. This is a family where you pass on the silver and the recipes, you sleep
under great-grandma's quilt, you live in the family house, you keep up the rosegarden and you inherit grandpa's money.
Love and affection may or may not be there. What's important in this family is maintaining tradition, wealth and
inheritances. It's THAT kind of commitment
What's important in this family is maintaining tradition, wealth and inheritances. It's THAT kind of commitment
so where would that leave the ace of cups? the way the cards looked they showed the fool walking straight into the 'trap'
of the 10 of pentacles, and out the other end comes the ace of cups... i'm beginning to find this amusing.
so where would that leave the ace of cups? the way the cards looked they showed the fool walking straight into the 'trap'
of the 10 of pentacles, and out the other end comes the ace of cups... i'm beginning to find this amusing.
They might convert to that religion. That is, find out that they LOVE the idea of being part of a tradition.
Here's another thought. The Fool, as a card, indicates a person with no attachments (at least, for the moment)--it's not like
the 8/cups where a person is leaving something behind. The Fool is pretty much free and clear. Imagine an orphan, a guy
or girl who never had a family--or if they did, it was one without heritage or traditions. He meets a guy or girl who comes
from a very traditional family, with a real family name, geneology, maybe wealth, and Christmas with oraments for the
tree that go back a hundred years.
Overwhelming, yes. Like bright lights to his/her innocent eyes. But like someone in a foreign country, our Orphan might
begin to go native. This is something they never had, maybe they begin to feel an upswelling or real love for it. To be part
of this! To have that name and that ready-made heritage and traditions...and maybe money and a home, too.
It's not unappealing.
I don't see 10 Pents as cancelling out the Fool.
Since you had three cards, you would read them together like a sentence, one flowing into another. Much the way Thirteen
described it..
I would see it as this person is not afraid to take that chance and take that leap of faith to embrace the whole aspect of the
10 Pentacles, the home, hearth and family and everything it entails, because it is creating the future out of overflowing
love. They would like the security of the 10 Pents, but mainly their motivation is from love.
I would see it as this person is not afraid to take that chance and take that leap of faith to embrace the whole aspect of
the 10 Pentacles, the home, hearth and family and everything it entails, because it is creating the future out of overflowing
love. They would like the security of the 10 Pents, but mainly their motivation is from love.
this sounds really good - too good to be true. if only i were to find out... (goes off mumbling to herself)
FOOL & DEATH AS ADVICE – LET IT GO OR GO FOR IT
Advice - Let it go or go for it?
Fool -The Fool has just started his journey, he has just left his village, he is looking for new adventures and experiences,
so it can mean the "let it go" version. But, it usually shows the beginning of something new, a rebirth and renewal of some
sort, so it might be a "don't give up" message as well.
Death - It can mean that a chapter in your life is ending, and it is better if you accept and release it. So, it may suggest
"letting things go". But, the old things are usually replaced with something better, so it can mean that "do not give up",
change will come.
I am totally confused.
I would be very happy if you could share your thoughts with me!
Thank you in advance!
(I asked the card that what the best attitude was towards someone. What should I do, should I let things go, or go for
them.... )
Hi, I see the two of them going together. If you go for what is new (Fool), it's going to close a chapter from your life and
open a new one (death). As an advice, the cards are neutral to me because they are explaining (describing) your situation.
The only ''advice'' that I see is maybe think twice to do not fool yourself and if you go for the new opportunity, something
will definitively die. Now, the question is, what do you want to do?
Endings and new beginnings . The advice part would be to look carefully at what you want and think about where the
path may lead you to because whatever choice you make, it will never be the same (Death).
Advice - Let it go or go for it? Fool -The Fool has just started his journey, he has just left his village, he is looking for
new adventures and experiences, so it can mean the "let it go" version. But, it usually shows the beginning of something
new, a rebirth and renewal of some sort, so it might be a "don't give up" message as well.
But if it was a don't give up message then don't you think you may have seen the seven of pentacles, eight of pentacles of
knight of pentacles in place of The Fool though? Those cards speak of perseverance more than the Fool does. The thing
about hanging in there, is that it's a process already in motion and neither of these two cards speak of that.
Death - It can mean that a chapter in your life is ending, and it is better if you accept and release it. So, it may suggest
"letting things go". But, the old things are usually replaced with something better, so it can mean that "do not give up",
change will come.
I've got another idea. The Fool - change direction, start over, new journey, take a risk. Death - leave the past behind you
and get renewed by this new journey, change in direction or risk taking. I'm seeing death here as the consequence of the
newness of The Fool. So I'm not seeing, give it up, or hang in there. What I'm seeing reflected in both of those cards
is....change direction.
Is this a romance reading?
That's a hard question to answer because it's really two questions with two cards but without placement.
Both the Fool and Death are independent people. They are usually not involved in romantic relationship. In a romance
reading I wouldn't see these two cards as a positive sign.
BUT you are asking IF you should do it and both Death and the Fool would do it. They are the kind of people who would
take the risk because they are living for themselves and only themselves. For instance, they finish the race not because
everyone would love it if they won, but because they really want to win for themselves. So in this instance, the two cards
advise you to do whatever it is that you want. Just do it. At least you'll not have any regrets. Because neither Fool or Death
have regrets.
I've got another idea. The Fool - change direction, start over, new journey, take a risk. Death - leave the past behind you
and get renewed by this new journey, change in direction or risk taking. I'm seeing death here as the consequence of the
newness of The Fool. So I'm not seeing, give it up, or hang in there. What I'm seeing reflected in both of those cards
is....change direction
This is also how I see the two together. The Fool says - go for it, but know you're closing one door to open another. For
one energy to enter, another must leave. I don't see these as a suggestion to hang on.
Both the Fool and Death are independent people. They are usually not involved in romantic relationship. In a romance
reading I wouldn't see these two cards as a positive sign
It might not be positive for an existing relationship, unless it meant taking it to the next level--as in, going from dating to
getting married.
If you're not yet in a relationship, or if you're friends with your potential lover, it can be very positive, as it suggests taking
a chance and going for it, leaving behind the non-relationship state, and in a sense, ending the original nature of friends-
only to become lovers.
Thank you for your help. To tell the truth I am still confused a bit.
The question had reference to a man I couldn't forget. I am in a loving, calm, supporting relationship with my boyfriend
but I can't stop thinking of this man from my past, and I am almost sure that he has feelings for me as well, but we don't
take steps towards each other, there is perfect silence between us.
And, I think this man is not "relationship material", so I just wanted a confirmation from my deck to forget him, and I got
these cards.
So, your interpretation might be right. If I started something with him, I would lost my existing relationship. It is clear.
tarot_quest: "The only ''advice'' that I see is maybe think twice to do not fool yourself and if you go for the new
opportunity, something will definitively die."
angelf1sh: "The advice part would be to look carefully at what you want and think about where the path may lead you to
because whatever choice you make, it will never be the same (Death)."
SwordOfTruth: "I'm seeing death here as the consequence of the newness of The Fool."
knight_sephiroth: "The Fool says - go for it, but know you're closing one door to open another. For one energy to enter,
another must leave."
So, it describes my situation perfectly.
But... what are the cards suggesting....? Should I pursue anything with this man?
The ideal thing would have been to pull a third card for advice. Perhaps what these cards are saying is the choice is still
in your hands, here's the result if you go there. Now what do you want? There doesn't necessarily have to be a card to ask
that, it's an implied question.
The ideal thing would have been to pull a third card for advice. Perhaps what these cards are saying is the choice is still
in your hands, here's the result if you go there. Now what do you want? There doesn't necessarily have to be a card to
ask that, it's an implied question.
It's funny, because I don't know what I really want. As I have written above, I love my boyfriend and there is a very deep
connection between us, but I can't forget the other man.
I hate this situation, and I am craving for something to happen that would resolve my inner conflicts and/or show me my
way. I wouldn't care if it was painful.
To sum up, I am feeling stuck, that's why I asked the card for guidance.
I guess I will do an other more detailed advice-reading, because with these cards I feel stuck again.
I know this feeling well. I am presently stuck too. Do a detailed read and put it in the your readings section, that way
others can elaborate on all the cards and see if they can touch on things that seem significant to you
I read this yesterday and it has been on my mind. The Fool and Devil are good partners. The Fool is always off to find a
new adventure, adventure after adventure. Once the Fool has found it and tires of it he lets it go (Death) and moves on.
These are making you look at why you stay. Are you comfortable in your fur lined rut? You found another who sparked
your interest, how long before the next one? Why are you looking else where, or attracted to another IF you are already
in love. These cards are asking you a tough question, don't just brush it aside.
The fool always had a flair of carelesness in it..childish behaviour and even not stressing too much over something. We
see the guy sitting on top of the cliff unaware that he's about to fall,because he's so happy and excited and dumb that
thanks God there is this puppy barking at him this way he notices his mistake. To me this card says we can enjoy life but
with limits and without risking everything for a cause.You can risk but expect sudden changes and unfriendly
environments since u left your home and you wandering on the streets. There is dangers at any step if u are weak. In terms
of relationships,if u two are separated then the fool in here says to get out of your comfort zone and make a step and risk
but with limits. If u know u will find something at the end of the tunnel go for it..but if u already know what to expect it
says u should probably try new teritories.Maybe this card is saying that u are worrying way too much for nothing..
Death as second advice is different then the fool because it is more painful. Death shows sudden and necesary changes
and transformation(complete at times). Let's say u have a strong ego and u have stopped being with this person either
because u have did a mistake and u do not aknoweldge it or the partner did something to you that u cannot get over with.
Death says,get over that even over your ego and break the wall between u two even though this means admitting a mistake
and "shaming" yourself or feeling lower then your partner.. I hope u understand what i mean.
I dont see these 2 cards as representing lettin go something because there are other cards for that. These 2 cards say: try
your luck. It might bring u to experience something u havent experienced before.
If the Fool does go ahead and step off the cliff, there's no going back. Whatever happens after that is totally and completely
done. He can never go back and change anything. In fact, he'll never be the same again in any way. So he's going to be
stuck facing the future with no choice but to go forward with whatever condition he's left with after the fall. We might
look at that little dog as our gut instinct. If we don't heed what that little still voice in our ear is trying to tell us, we can
expect to pay some non-reversible consequences.
It might not be positive for an existing relationship, unless it meant taking it to the next level--as in, going from dating to
getting married. If you're not yet in a relationship, or if you're friends with your potential lover, it can be very positive,
as it suggests taking a chance and going for it, leaving behind the non-relationship state, and in a sense, ending the
original nature of friends-only to become lovers.
I think there are better cards to suggest marriage. Personally, I have never seen Death mean marriage. I have also never
seen it mean the end of a friendship because you are now lovers. Again, there are better cards. Essentially Death means
it's over. If you become lovers with someone, you will still retain a friendship. So I don't see how this would fit in that
particular example that you gave me.
If she's asking IF she should go for it, then I think she should. So you are agreeing with me when you said
it can be very positive, as it suggests taking a chance and going for it
A few more add ups:I remember i had the Death once for a reconciliation and it was so welcomed because the people
involved started from zero and left the past behind and didnt repeated the old mistakes anymore.It was the death of silence
and bum the guy came in her life like a whirlwind and changed the situation between them in a whole unexpectedly
way(he said later he was expecting her to make a step as he was having too much pride).The reconciliation came up after
she has decided to give him a sign and admit that she needed him in her life. And it surprised me because there are so
many other cards that could've pointed a happy reunion but no..it was the Death card.My friend even said to me that she
couldnt believe how drastic it was the change and how nicely he behaves with her.I was scratching my head of course
because i said they will reconcile but at that time i could not predict what would be the effect of this card for them on
long term(i thought was temporary)..but.. they are still together nowadays..
I agree with you Laurelle! I think that the marriage is such a happy event that it should not be associated with such a dark
card.
I remember time ago i had a lady visiting me(she was 30 at that time) who asked me to shuffle for her and the death card
was repeating obsesivelly while i was laying cards,even while i was shuffling it fell once and i asked her why??? Why is
the death repeating in your past and in your present,what's the transformation u are planning to do and her answer shocked
me.. she wanted to die..(divorce and a few problems in between were affecting her so much that she was seeying only
death ahead)..
She has atempted suicide in the past and she was depressive and thinking obsessively about dying in the present time..
For me the Death card is so tricky and ambigous.. on one side it shows how a bad situation can be easily resolved and
have a fresh restart and on the other side it shows how a person wanted total self-distruction due to a depression.
About the fool card...I like how Grizabella pointed out the puppy meaning as a gut instinct..never thought about that.
COSMIC TAROT – THE FOOL
I have been avoiding this card, and now I think i know why. This fool is reminecient of the Joker of the standard playing
cards. this fool can make a fool of you if you are not careful. Dressed as a jester, hat and all (with threebells of course)
striped shirt which looks at least 2x too big, and pink pants. The had indicates that this fool has either just jumped and
landed, or has just landed w/o jumping. The dog is playful and 4 birds are in the background. A crystal grows from this
ledge along with several flowers. A river flows in the background, new possibilies are opening up, but you must look pas
the fool and into the mountains.
i agree - in this deck with this fool you just don't know whether he is jumping or not jumping - he certainly looks a little
more reckless than some other images of this card - as if he is really pushing his luck dancing around on that tip of that
mountain - if he's not carefull he will fall
if i had to say either way i would say he's right on the threshold of jumping - the dog is jumping even higher than in other
decks
living dangerously - fearlessly - confident as a tightrope walker or a trapeze artist without a net - playing with fire
perhaps he is not scared for the simple fact that he knows he can *do it* whatever that is - faith in oneself and he is
laughing in this confidence whereas others/the dog around him fear for him? he's not taking advice
http://www.angelpaths.com/decks/cosm...smic_maj_0.jpg
I think the Fool came to amuse me today, this morning actually. I’m still not sure if he was trying to make a fool of myself
or actually trying to smooth things over…this thought is still under consideration.
Or perhaps it was the dog, although one aspect of this faithful companion speaks to me as my natural instincts, my
intelligence, my protector, perhaps my spirit or my soul.
I should look at the astrology section, I’m sure paradoxx has something for me there. I could feel the Fool around me,
and when I shuffled the deck, what did I get….The Fool!
Looking at the fool in this deck, the first thing my eyes were drawn to was his incredibly big feet and pink
pants…..why?......I was incredibly clumsy this morning…and my limbs like rubber. Not only that, I looked at the Fool’s
hair which definitely resembles mine at the moment from the heat and high humidity in my area. I almost got the
impression that his wild hairstyle is from the charge and discharge of the Sun’s force, of an electrical charge continually
in motion.
The Fool didn’t stop here! I was out driving early this morning, ( work related) and was nearly hit from behind by a tractor
trailer! The light had turned orange and was ready to turn red, when I saw the truck from behind…he was slowing but not
stopping!. I just wanted to cover my face with my hands and await the big bang, but it was if warning bells (on the Fool’s
head & dress) were jangling some kind of code, and my (fool’s) dog suddenly went mad, snarling, growling, snapping
and my foot hit the gas pedal thrusting my car through the intersection. If I had been hit, it would have been like the fool
in his bubbles of air, falling, spiralling off the cliff! The crash landing would for a few moments deprive me of my senses
but also wham!…I’d feel my breath leaving my body!.
Star-lover, you mentioned the dog jumping higher than other dogs in the tarot, do you think he’s the one that will push
the fool over the edge? Hmm I wonder?
Would the crystals represent programming from one lifetime to the next, the ice capped mountains, memories past
experiences frozen that through time will melt into the river?
Then again the fool can be funny charming, delightful, yet as he starts his journey we will see him talk of life more
seriously, and confidently, and living a civilized life!?
The sensitivity that I felt last week with the Sun seems to be with me still. Is my dog (messenger?) warning me to get
grounded, or are the birds and the dog trying to show me something or just telling me to lighten up?
To me, this fool isn't so foolish as in most decks. He KNOWS he isn't going to fall off because he jumps in place. So does
his dog. And I get the impression it isn't very far down even if he'd go over. He seems like someone pretending to be
adventurous but isn't.
In the Cosmic Tarot book by Jean Huets it quotes.....
A jester in motley dances at the edge of a cliff.
He is stationary at the moment, even though he he does indicate forward/upward movement. his tip toes touches the
ground, the earthly plane of reality. Mulkuth in the world of Assiah
A dog, symbol of fidelity, leaps beside him, perhaps warning him of the dangers of the deep.
The faithful dog dances along, but keeps the Fool from losing awareness of the surroundings.
symbol of Sirus
The Dog reminds of my dog before she passed away, when ever I zoned out, into my imagination and during my
Meditations, she would after a period of time of my zoning that she would bark at me until I came back to reality of the
present, out of my daydreaming. so the symbol of the dog rings true to me.
She would only allow me to leave the physical/Material plane of Malkuth for a short period of time. In a way you can
view the Dog as a keeper of the gate of Malkuth, she keeps you planted here (your soul) in this world of illusion. Like a
trap keeping you from god consciousness.
When the Fire of the Kundalini sparks, the Dog barks, jumps and bounces. the keeper of desires, she is your warning of
your awareness of her and the ability to control her.
The message here is that your to lose your awareness of this reality Malkuth and enter into the higher planes of the tree
of life. (ascending)
When your are (descending) from kether the crown, the message is that you are not to lose the memories of your soul. the
kasha records or god consciousness.
His head reaches toward the sun and the stars; The sun inspires the Fool with spheres of light.
Sun symbol of Orion, creation of the stars, out of Nothingness. In Kabbalah this is Kether, in the world of Atziluth.
The universal god consciousness. Sub-conscious memories of the soul. Akasha records
Crystals grow from the ground. his feet caper on the very lip of a crystal-studded alpine cliff.
to me the crystals are the manifestations of the conscious mind of our reality that we create. The Material Plane. In
Kabbalah this Malkuth in the world of Assiah.
The are 4 Spheres that surround the fool. In Kabbalah there are the 4 worlds;
Atziluth; fire, emanations, archetypal
Briah; water, creation, intuitive
Yetzinah; air, form, ideas and intellectual
Assiah; earth, action and physical
These are all interconnected, linked, representing connecting all worlds from one plane to the other. forming a completed
soul to know thy self, internally and externally, the different planes of reality and the many parallel universes, all the
possibilities that we are linked to.
This also represent the Chakras, his foot stand on the root chakra, his head sit at the crown chakra. the Kundalini (fire
serpent) the practice of white tantra, to reach and unite with gods consciousness.
There are 3 practices of Tantra
White Tantra = practice of chastity, the ability to control and master the desires and urges. Using the kundalini fire to
reach gods consciousness, the gate, they way back. The ability to express sexuality and love for and with another without
orgasming. Using the kundalini energy for spiritual enlightenment to god consciousness.
Grey Tantra = practice of occasional orgasm, this path leads to black tantra, the chasing of desires. This still releases /
breaks the vital energy/kundalini through release of the orgasm.
Black Tantra - practice of always orgasming, which leads to pain and suffering, the wrong path, this path leads the soul
down to uncontrolled desires and never satisfied, the neverending cycle. the no return to god consciousness, the black
hole.
Both Grey and Black Tantra, releases the Energy/fire of the serpent/kundalini, breaking the energy needed to return to
god consciousness
Which leads you into the world (Kabbalah) of Klippoth
The number 0 is the mathematical point of neutrality between positive numbers and negative numbers.
The Fool is the point of balance between destruction and creation. S/He signifies the held breath of the cosmic force: the
exhalation is creation; the inhalation is annihilation.
The Fool is spirit on the edge of manifestation; the formless who precedes or succeeds the dualism of heaven and earth;
“ground zero,” the center of destruction. An absolute neuter, neither male nor female, neither active nor passive, the
Fool embodies in its circular digit all possibilities.
Imagination is a sister of ecstasy, and ecstasy is a razor’s edge between sanity and insanity. The most heartbreaking
delusions and the most exquisite beauty spring from imagination.
The Fool embodies the imagination, with all its glamor and all its danger. It is appropriate that the Fool is the 0, the
naught, for the imagination by itself signifies nothing. Only when given form does the imagination make an impact.
Meanings • Wisdom of innocence. Originality. Annulment of reason. Frivolity. Lack of discipline. Ecstasy. Delirium.
Satire. Cartoons. Clowns. Mime. Madness. Imagination. Youthfulness. Comedy. Fun. Lack of social grace.
Thoughtlessness. Folly. Extravagance. Immaturity. Irrationality. Frenzy. Enthusiasm. Naiveté.
MAGICAL FOREST – THE FOOL
I haven't participated in a study group before so I"m not sure how to go about this but we can wing it! As long as we learn
about the deck that's what we're here for.
The first part of the LWB for the Magical Forest deck talks about an enchanted forest and how the animals there had
human voices and virtues. These creatures were discovered centuries ago and their stories were told in fairy tales and
fables. It is considered a fantasy world where there is always an animal who offers advice, remind us of someone, a wise
tree, etc. This tells me that we need to look at every thing in the illustrations and see what else is there that we might
overlook.
In the middle of the Magical Forest is a Sacred Tree where the animals come to for advice, etc. There is a Sacred Tree
spread included with this deck.
0 - The Fool
The infinitive attracts zero: Dreamy Little Pig sets out, urged onward by his own nature and instinct. "I'm setting out to
seek my fortune," he told his mother when he left home and embarked on the great adventure of his life. He follows his
own dream, and for this reason he looks up towards the sky and pays no attention to where he places his feet.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"The infinitive attracts zero." I would assume this is a translation error, infinitive is a part of speech, not a noun or verb.
Maybe it is infinity or infinite that is meant here. That would make more sense to me. What would the zero be?
The little pig is up in the warm sunlight. Below appears dark and cold. The Sun in front of the Pig is opposite of traditional
cards where the sun is behind the Fool. The sun being behind the fool represents the fool heading in the Northwest
direction which is supposed to be the unknown. This pig is heading into the sunlight while he's about to fall off a cliff.
He's holding a white rose, traditional but it's supposed to mean that he's free from animal desires but what does that mean
when it's an animal holding it?
It's interesting to me that his little dog is a toy dog. It's the only card that has a toy shown in it or any animal that has
wheels for legs. Is this because the Pig is not really taking along a real friend but an imaginary friend? Maybe he's not
responsible enough for a real pet? The dog looks kind of strange. It looks like it's scared.
What does anyone else think?
When I look at the card I see youthful idealism, that time in a young person's life where they have an abundance of
optimism and energy about the world and their place in it. I remember my mum always saying "Well, you'd better leave
home now while you still know everything" at the times I became too big for my britches. It was never meant to be a
scathing commment, mind you but tongue in cheek for her. I see the little pig's exuberance and perhaps not very well
informed attitude about heading into the world, the little dog seems to symbolize the unquestioning loyalty as he has
wheels instead of legs, meaning he would follow the little pig to the ends of the earth and perhaps the depths too if neither
one sees the very edge of the cliff in front of them!
It struck me that the dog's being a toy reinforced the pig's youth and innocence. And somehow I was struck by the
closeness of the sun to the pig's nose. Like the pig could just open his mouth and eat the sun! LOL
Maybe the sun stands for his excitement and enthusiasm for his adventure and he's letting it "lead him by his snout (nose)"
without thought of the edge?
It struck me that the dog's being a toy reinforced the pig's youth and innocence. And somehow I was struck by the closeness
of the sun to the pig's nose. Like the pig could just open his mouth and eat the sun! LOL
I didn't connect the toy with the pigs youthfulness. That's a good connection. Yes, I agree, why is the sun so close?
Why is the dog such a 'dead' color? That's the colors used for the sad or dead characters in this deck.
To me the sun is off in the distance (to the right side a bit ahead of him not right in front of him) so in my mind he is
looking forward into the unknown with the sun shining pleasantly upon him. He is indeed a naive little chap who is full
of determination and dreams but has a lot to learn along the way.
With the toy dog and the sun in front of him I get a more positive feel for this fool card than with other decks. I usually
think of the fool as someone immature, with lots to learn and not making the greatest choices. This card seems to be more
about moving forward in a good direction. Still has lots to learn and is young but going in the right direction.
With the toy dog and the sun in front of him I get a more positive feel for this fool card than with other decks. I usually
think of the fool as someone immature, with lots to learn and not making the greatest choices. This card seems to be more
about moving forward in a good direction. Still has lots to learn and is young but going in the right direction.
Yes, I get a very positive feel for this Fool card also, something more happy about it than usual.
"The infinitive attracts zero" could either be a translation error or a misunderstanding of the word form, usually an adverb
& not used as a noun as it seems to represent here.
The particular phrasing, however, seems expressive of 0-The Fool from a Buddhist point of view. Captures the idea of
infinite possibilities with the Buddhist concept of 'no-thingness'--the lack of ego, a detachment from the physical world
& its associations &/or the elimination of desires.
Hence, see the pig with a toy dog to represent a child or youngster. A child tends to take along a favourite toy or a 'security
blanket' on any outing or journey. Such a person also detached from the worldly considerations.
The pig, then, represents the innocence of a child or that of childhood. That purity of mind, heart & spirit that 'attracts'
the divine or to be in contact with same. (& reminiscent of the old fairy tale, "The Three Pigs" of three pigs who learn
about life through trial & error.)
Note, too, the pig cloaked in red. In the Oriental tradition, red the colour of life, vitality & good fortune.
This little pig looks so young. The little dog on wheels adds a touch of innocence that could slide back down the
hill..depending on where the pig decides he needs to go. The sun is calling and feels so warm after the coldness of the
depths below and it would be hard to ignore.
Piglet has left home taking his meager belongings with him, perhaps to find his true love... I feel like shouting out at him
to watch his step, to get his feet firmly on the ground - yet at the same time part of me admires him for being so bold and
that things will work out ok in the end.
The little dog looks like a toy and makes him look young, the bag on the end of the stuck gives me the impression that it
contains all of his worldly possesions, the flower in his hand could be his gift to the one has set out to find, he seems to
be wearing his smartest clothes and so wants to make a good impression, he seems blinded by the sun (so focussed on the
distance) to notice the cliff edge right in front of him.
The piglet seems totally carefree and without a worry in the world - a real dreamer - I can almost here him whistle the
tune to "always look on the bright side of life...". The saying that springs to mind is "fools leap where angels fear to tread",
and that in boldness there is greatness, just go out and do it, seize the day.
Start out with an empty mind, if you head is full of thoughts and preconcieved notions there wont be space for any more!
Just got this deck today and absolutely love it! It seems to be considered a cute, but strange deck - however I find it very
melancholy/bittersweet at the same time. Especially the Fool (but it could just be my 'off-mood' at the moment)...
Unlike the RWS Fool (who seems to be descending a mountain), this little pig seems to have climbed up one - as if to
escape the cold, dreary world below and to sniff the fresh air high up in the mountains.
His toy dog gives me the impression that he is an orphan, a lost child seeking a home or new life.
He's not aware of the fall before him, but if he is, this gives him a very melancholy feel - he can go no further, but back
down to the scary world below. But for a short while at least, he can saviour this moment of freedom.
when i look at this card, i feel like there is some naivete involved with this little pig setting out on his journey. almost like
romanticizing the journey itself. and it kinda makes me wonder will he properly absorb his lessons as he embarks on to
his journey and come across the challenges of life. i think the little dog on the wheels is an aspect of his child like
innocence that he's taking along with him. like a memory keepsake so he can hold on to a piece of that innocence within
himself. i think the sun represents the goal of enlightenment that he seeks deep down. but he still has to be mindful of
where he places his steps to achieve it. he seems prepared for his journey with his little warm coat and his bundle on the
stick... but what's in that little bundle? did he prepare properly and pack the bundle with the things he'll need to be
successful on his journey?
Initially the card seemed happy to me, with a strong yellow colour to it. But looking at it a bit closer and both the dog and
the pig look scared to me.
I'm scared for the pig. He seems totally unaware of the precipice before him and he's going to get the shock of his life,
whether he manages to stop himself and not fall off or trip off the cliff. He has a naivete about him which means he's
looking up and out, towards his goal and the world far away around him, rather than the here and now. The dog behind
him also seems unaware of the fall in front but is more paranoid or worried than the pig. Maybe he suspects something's
up or has more experience than the pig - a hand-me-down who has been the companion to many pig's first journey perhaps.
THE FOOL TO DESCRIBE A RELATIONSHIP
Hi everyone,
New member here, been interpreting my own tarot cards for two years now, but I still find myself doubtful of my own
interpretations sometimes (am I being objective enough?) and thought I'd introduce myself with this question.
I did a simple relationship spread to describe myself, him, and the nature of our relationship at this time. For the nature
of relationship, I pulled "The Fool." I take that to mean, since the romantic feelings are new (we've been platonic for years
now), it'll come with all the usual pains of starting fresh, sweaty palms, dating, awkward little mistakes, getting used to
each other's habits, etc. Overall, the romantic relationship is something that's very new to both of us. Or it could more
literally mean we're both afraid of "playing the fool" and fearing rejection from the other, if we admit our feelings (so far
I've only been flirting subtly, but he's been receptive to it at times). If it helps for interpreting purposes, this card appeared
after the 2 of Swords, which was describing him (I have a pretty good idea of what that one means, though, so no need to
interpret that one as well -- only the overall relationship card). Combined with that card, I could interpret it as fear of
starting anew, especially if one of us has been involved in a long-term relationship that ended badly in the recent past. An
inability to move forward at this time.
I'm curious to hear other interpretations, and as I said, I fear not being objective enough when reading my own cards.
Will give feedback to all who reply - thank you so much!
Hi and welcome!
It simply describes that the relationship is still very new. The Fool gives the chance to start from scratch, he travels
towards the unknown so being a bit scared of playing the Fool makes sense but there is trust and openeness with him so
I don't see a fear of starting anew nor an inability to move forward.
2 of Swords regarding him makes me think there is some fragility but with the Fool, anything can happen, without
preconceived ideas and expectations so I would say that It's quite optimistic.
hi there and welcome, the fool often represents relationships that are different from the norm, domestic relationships are
not usually signified here and other possibilities could be a big age gap, different cultural backgrounds or you may choose
to live separately and only meet on W/E perhaps one partner may travel a lot with work because it's a travel card. Gay
and lesbian relationships also fall in the fools domain as do any sexual preferences which are different from the norm.
You may face criticism from friends and family as the relationship fails to live up to their expectations. It's also
highlighting the fact the relationship is new
Hi!
I agree with everything everyone has said so far, but you also need to take heed of the lesson of the Fool card - which
says everything will be so wonderful and new and different - but while your head is in the clouds keep you feet planted
firmly on the ground so you keep where you are going without falling off the cliff. The little dog warns not to be so swept
up that you lose focus or direction.
Good Luck! Sounds like future potentials here ...
It simply describes that the relationship is still very new. The Fool gives the chance to start from scratch, he travels
towards the unknown so being a bit scared of playing the Fool makes sense but there is trust and openeness with him so
I don't see a fear of starting anew nor an inability to move forward.
2 of Swords regarding him makes me think there is some fragility but with the Fool, anything can happen, without
preconceived ideas and expectations so I would say that It's quite optimistic.
Yes, I think there is definitely some fragility... maybe for both of us, because we've both been "burned" by significant
others before. I think not having any expectations as to what the relationship would be like is wise advice too. Having
expectations can stop anything in its tracks. I'm going to keep all this in mind. Thank you for the response!
hi there and welcome, the fool often represents relationships that are different from the norm, domestic relationships are
not usually signified here and other possibilities could be a big age gap, different cultural backgrounds or you may choose
to live separately and only meet on W/E perhaps one partner may travel a lot with work because it's a travel card. Gay
and lesbian relationships also fall in the fools domain as do any sexual preferences which are different from the norm.
You may face criticism from friends and family as the relationship fails to live up to their expectations. It's also
highlighting the fact the relationship is new
Thank you! Wow, that hits the nail on the head. There is an age gap, and one of us does travel quite a bit for work. The
criticism from friends and family I expect would happen, although I'm not as worried about that as I am the other two
things.
I agree with everything everyone has said so far, but you also need to take heed of the lesson of the Fool card - which
says everything will be so wonderful and new and different - but while your head is in the clouds keep you feet planted
firmly on the ground so you keep where you are going without falling off the cliff. The little dog warns not to be so swept
up that you lose focus or direction.
Good Luck! Sounds like future potentials here ...
This interpretation resonates with me, too. I have a habit of falling head over heels and forgetting to do what makes me
happy. This is all good stuff; I'm so glad I asked for other interpretations -- so many things I wouldn't have considered on
my own. Thank you so much!
I also received the Fool right after the 2 of Swords! How do you interpret this combination, I'm curious to know?
I also received the Fool right after the 2 of Swords! How do you interpret this combination, I'm curious to know?
That's also how it showed up in my spread. It depends on what your question was and what position the cards fell in. The
2 of Swords strikes me as a very idle card - being at an impasse and not moving forward or backward, while the Fool
seems kind of about "just go for it." Jumping off the cliff, so to speak, or diving into something. Maybe you'll experience
a change of pace in your life. Things might be moving slow right now, but soon you'll feel overwhelmed by how quickly
things are happening?
That's a very broad interpretation since I'm not sure what the topic is. You can always message me if you'd rather keep
the question private, if you're still curious.
The Fool to describe a relationship: it's new and still undeveloped. You are both still floating and imagining all of the
possibilities together.
If it's an established relationship, then it's one that hasn't matured or moved forward. You're not fully committed.
This is a relationship with a good amount of trust.
QUESTION ABOUT THE FOOL
I pulled this card to the question, what does x think of think x? I l already know that this person thinks quite negatively
toward the other person so I am wondering could the the fool card literally mean this person thinks that x is literally a
fool? foolish? and what other negative traits could the fool represent?
negative? . perhaps different or a dreamer,maybe even mysteriously interesting.
Sometimes people say mean things but are really saying I'M PROTECTING MYSELF FROM LIKING X,foolish silly
dreamers aren't they!
Happy-go-lucky, impulsive, innocent, naive, eager. There are many things the fool represents.
A fool, childish, naive, irresponsible, silly.
Yes, I think the other person could think the first person is a literal fool...but then, I might ask myself why this person is
seeing the other in that light and not seeing the charming, albeit naive "fool" who is open to taking that leap of faith or
starting a new journey unencumbered by preconceived notions that might stop him. (i.e. what am I doing to give that
impression?, providing I am the person thought of as a fool.)
But that's just me.
Every card in the deck can have negative connotations, and the Fool's negative is that it can, indeed, indicate that someone
is a fool (or is seen as a fool), an idiot, stupid, etc. Usually, this is foolishness that relates, as said, to naiveté. Someone
who is seen as traipsing through life saying, "la-de-dah!' I don't have to know or learn anything, all will work out...."
The card pretty much says it all. The weaknesses of the Fool is that they don't look to see what in front of them, don't plan
ahead, and don't really know much of anything. They are like a child--with a child's joy and love of fun, but also with no
feelings of responsibility. You can't rely on them, can't ask them to do anything, can't hope that they're going to know
anything or learn anything or pay attention for that matter. You have to clean up after them and apologize for the foolish
things they say and do.
I would say that person X sees person X as likely to embarrass them, as not being smart or adult or serious enough for
them.
fools had a revered position in the old courts,they gave odd answers and allowed for new perspectives. but there again
the fool was known to be foolish.
If the X being seen is female, the fool could also represent an airhead, a barbie doll, someone without great depth...
My regular reader used to draw this card for me, and she would look me straight in the eye and say: "you're a very beautiful
person, but incredibly naive. That's why these problems happen to you! People know they can 'fool' you".
The fool is my soul card though, so I guess I'm okay
Anyway, perhaps the fool is innocent and happy-go-lucky but incredibly blind to the problems surrounding him. He's a
fool and therefore easy to fool.
but also with no feelings of responsibility. You can't rely on them, can't ask them to do anything, can't hope that they're
going to know anything or learn anything or pay attention for that matter. You have to clean up after them and apologize
for the foolish things they say and do.
This description fits him just perfect!!!
Well to me the Fool is childlike, and has a childlike lack of fear about taking risks.
Although to me the Fool is a very positive card and these are, to me, good qualities, IF you really wanted to see this as
negative the Fool's childlikeness could be viewed as immaturity. And his lack of understanding of the potential danger in
situations could make him look naive, and maybe lacking a bit in intelligence to some, but I don't think I personally could
see this card as negative.
I think it sounds like a good guess. Otherwise irresponsible, or naive are other qualities it can indicate in addition.
FOOL AND QUEEN OF SWORDS
So, this is a weird combo, isn't it? The Queen of Swords clarifies the Fool here, as part of a larger reading...and I'm not
sure what aspect of the Fool the Queen of Swords is clarifying? Very strange combo, indeed!
I wish I could at least venture a guess about this clarification, but I don't see what in the Fool the QoS would be pointing
out.
Bet some of you will come up with creative answers, so please share!
"You are a fool if you think the Queen of Swords is ever going to go for you??"
The Simpleton does usually get the princess in the end though, right?
An odd pair indeed! Context in this case might be very helpful!
"You are a fool if you think the Queen of Swords is ever going to go for you??"
The Simpleton does usually get the princess in the end though, right?
An odd pair indeed! Context in this case might be very helpful!
If I mention context, it becomes interpretive.
But this was not a combo reading...so the question is, what in the Fool is the QoS trying to clarify? I don't see what the
Queen has in common with the Fool, especially the Queen of Swords!
Sometimes we understand something more clearly by looking at what it is not! The Queen of Swords certainly will point
out if one is being the fool. Or the message could be that you are being too much like the Q of Swords when really you
should be more like the Fool.
It's like this: You ask question X and the cards say, "The Fool, you need to be like the Fool." You say, "I don't understand
please clarify," and the cards say, "Loosen up already! You're kind of acting like an uptight ice queen!"
Conversely, the cards could be telling you not to be the Fool, and when you look clueless they clarify by telling you what
quality would work better for you, and that is the quality of the Queen of Swords.
Does that help??
LOL, might make sense in general but not in this spread. :p Hmmm, what to do...
The 'Fool' is also about being a seeker, a student. If the Fool comes up in a position where it is trying to suggest that you
need to think or work something out, the Queen of Swords, a Queen from a suit which is about intellect, might be
suggesting that you 'use your head' and don't leap to conclusions, lest you fall off a cliff and end up at the bottom in a
heap?
Don't know if that helps, but it's what came to me thinking about what the basic meaning of each is for me.
A few things came to mind about this pair:
1) Someone who isn't as smart as she thinks she is.
2) Someone who is foolish because she is only seeing what's in front of her or is trying to "reason" with feelings or
instinct.
3) Someone who is only seeing what she wants to see and is being close-minded, clinging only to what she wants to know
instead of embracing other notions. The killjoy to the Fool's carefree nature
"You need to combine playfulness with seriousness - don't go too far one way or the other".
THE FOOL AS AN OUTCOME CARD
Hi all
I'm a little lost on what the fool card could mean as an outcome card in relation to love in a Celtic cross spread.
I'm not sure if the fool is a positive or a negative as the outcome. When it comes to getting advice from the cards about
an ex, we still both love each other to the ends of the earth, we thought we would be connected forever, but we had to
walk different ways right now for a few reasons, I wanted advice to see if he will be my future life partner. So I'm kind
of lost with having the fool card as an outcome, Im honestly not picking anything up from this card, I don't know if it's a
good card or a negative card.
Advice and thoughts please
The ex actually emailed me yesterday, telling me he loves me and always will and how much it's hurting him not being
able to talk. I haven't heard from him since and I knew that was just him telling me how hard it is for him on his side of
things but right now it's bad timing for us to be together or even if we will ever be together again. I'm so confused on this
fool card though?
It depends what situation it is an outcome *to*.
And bearing in mind, an "outcome" is the actual, final end of something. For example, the outcome of a job is how you
eventually leave it (fired? Retired with a golden handshake? Head-hunted by another employer? Become disabled in such
a way that you can no longer do the job?). The outcome of a relationship is how that relationship eventually *ends*.
Anything before that is another stage during the - say - job or relationship, not its outcome.
A Fool as an outcome - I'd be tempted to say that the client will take a deep breath and "jump off a cliff", leaving their
safety-net (and everything else) far behind them.
My interpretation of the fool I would have thought maybe new beginning or fresh starts, let go of fear and have faith, I'm
actually wondering if the fool and the empress suggesting a pregnancy?
I agree with your interpretation, I also thought of a new start, going it alone, having faith things are turning out for the
best, self reliance, self resilience and the ability to shape your own path/destiny.
It may be that the Fool is indicating a time that one needs to work on themselves first, be that you, your partner, or the
relationship itself, and focus on self growth first.
The Empress can also indicate sexuality, and prosperity, not just fertility. I wouldn't think of her as an indication of
pregnancy, just on her own.
Also, beware of trying to force a reading to end the way you might wish. There is some serious wishful thinking in your
reading, overall, from the phrasing of your question, to your reaction to your cards. Having an unbiased read for one's
self, esp in a relationship reading, is quite tricky to do and still remain neutral.
ETA: the Celtic cross is not a favorite spread of mine. Too many cards to interpret. Too many messages to effectively
incorporate.
Less is more. Maybe read again after a little time has passed, and use a smaller spread?
For me the Fool is heading out on their own, a new adventure. Not counting on anyone else to achieve happiness. Doing
it your way. The Empress can mean a pregnancy, but will end up alone combined with the Fool, or considered a foolish
expectation, a child dose not help a relationship that has ended. There is a point where a person needs to let go, start a
new journey.
I think your right when it comes to ones interpretations when reading for themselves. That's where I'm still trying to learn.
I can draw a card and my interpretations could easily be swayed as something I want.
In regards to the relationship question, i have put it to rest, I have also stopped emailing the ex. Maybe the cards is trying
to tell me to let go. I have been recieving the two of cups in every daily draw, yesterday was the first time I didn't and
received the king of pentacles. Maybe the two of cups was telling me to let go because the first day i never emailed him,
the single card draw came out as the king of pentacles.
Do you know of any good spreads that have less cards then the Cs?
For me the Fool is heading out on their own, a new adventure. Not counting on anyone else to achieve happiness. Doing
it your way. The Empress can mean a pregnancy, but will end up alone combined with the Fool, or considered a foolish
expectation, a child dose not help a relationship that has ended. There is a point where a person needs to let go, start a
new journey.
I agree Pamuya
I have now let go, it's time for my new journey to begin. It's the hardest thing to do but I'm doing it
THE FOOL AS MENTAL ILLNESS
Over time, I've convinced myself that the Fool, in certain contexts and in combination with certain cards, is a strong
indicator for mental illness. I dug out one of the books I have about tarot, and there, in fact, there is an old interpretation
of the Fool as " madness, folly, dementia, foolery, extravagance...disorder, intoxication, frenzy..delusion...senseless,
irrational..." and so on.
I was wondering if you have had similar experiences with it....
Through the years many people have claimed many cards were 'indicators' of many things, some arrived at superficially
("The HP means she has her period') and as with everything Tarot - NO one card is an ABSOLUTE indicator of anything.
As you have said:"in certain contexts and in combination with certain cards".
Being an indicator and being a diagnosis are two distinctly separate things. I'd tread carefully about who I'd say that to if
those cards came up in a reading. You may mean they could benefit from some counselling - the Querent may interpret
your statement as 'call the men in the white coats immediately.'
Just my two cents ...
In the Tarot de Marseille, the title of this card is Le Mat, which means Madman or Fool.
Being an indicator and being a diagnosis are two distinctly separate things. I'd tread carefully about who I'd say that to
if those cards came up in a reading. You may mean they could benefit from some counselling - the Querent may interpret
I never said or thought for a moment that, when that card or even a much more disturbing combination comes up, one
should tell the sitter that he or someone else suffers from a mental illness and should be locked up in a psychiatric
hospital...
Being an indicator and being a diagnosis are two distinctly separate things. I'd tread carefully about who I'd say that to
if those cards came up in a reading. You may mean they could benefit from some counselling - the Querent may interpret
But no, not all cards are " indicators " for everything...there are cards that, no matter what combo they come up with,
would never make me think of mental problems....
Fool is touched by the divine and sees what others can't, and while outwardly mad, is inwardly visionary, like a prophet.
Similarly, jesters appear "witless" but speak truth to power (e.g., in the form of amusing but confounding riddles).
We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. - George Bernard Shaw
But, as every card has a positive and negative polarity, a visionary could easily turn into a madman, lose touch with
reality, become a false prophet, and so on....
People who think outside the "box" could be considered mad or a fool. Anyone who believes or see things differently
than normal (what ever that is ). I have never read this as mental illness, but I guess there is always a possibility. Yes the
fool sees the world his way, there are many people who stepped out side line and achieved great things. Are they the ones
who are mad, or is it the ones which march in lockstep which are mad? Just a thought. People who read tarot in some
circles are considered unbalanced, and mad... Some think me crazy
People who think outside the "box" could be considered mad or a fool. Anyone who believes or see things differently than
normal (what ever that is ). I have never read this as mental illness, but I guess there is always a possibility. Yes the fool
sees the world his way, there are many people who stepped out side line and achieved great things. Are they the ones who
are mad, or is it the ones which march in lockstep which are mad? Just a thought. People who read tarot in some circles
are considered unbalanced, and mad... Some think me crazy
Yes, I know the classic meanings of the Fool which are the ones you mentioned,and I agree that usually it is a positive
card, but in a context where there are other indicators for mental imbalance, like Temperance rx or the Moon, don't you
think it could just reenforce the idea of madness or crazyness ?
I would say that you're not being specific enough. The Fool certainly is a type of madness, an innocent madness of
creation. He has no past, no hangups, no conscience, nothing to stop him. All that has been said before.
However, it is a mistake to lump all mental illnesses together, because their causes and effects are as diverse as there are
conditions. Depression is not schizophrenia which isn't bulemia. Plus, it isn't "madness," and I'm not just being politically
correct. These are conditions that are part of and affect a person's personality, so you often cannot see from the outside
what a person has, if anything. There are conditions of depression that manifest in ways completely unrelated to sadness,
so without knowing a lot about the person, it is likely impossible, and wrong, to stick such a designation on them.
OK, yes, but again, this isn't about making a diagnosis and establishing that a person suffers from depression rather than
schizophrenia, and so on...obviously these are very complex issues, and it is not the role of a tarot reader to make an exact
diagnoses of an illness anyway, or decide WHAT KIND of mental or personality disorder one suffers from....we are
simply talking about alarm bells, again, indicators that there might be a problem....what type of problem exactly, it isn't
up to us to decide, or decipher...
Even when we get the Moon, which we all agree is a sign of mental illness, or at least it can be, in certain contexts, we
don't know EXACTLY what mental illness, but we agree that there is a problem there...
Yes, I know the classic meanings of the Fool which are the ones you mentioned,and I agree that usually it is a positive
card, but in a context where there are other indicators for mental imbalance, like Temperance rx or the Moon, don't you
think it could just reenforce the idea of madness or crazyness ?
No. Personally I have never experienced this card that way not saying that you cannot
The fool is more of an innocent child, for me. Madness of any sort doesn't come into it (and if we are going by TdM titles,
not every Empress is an empress, and so on...)
No. Personally I have never experienced this card that way not saying that you cannot
I'm with you.
The Fool is very childlike, I think. He's impulsive and he doesn't watch where he's going. It's as though his mind is a clean
slate and he doesn't know how to write on it yet.
There are mental "conditions" that are not considered mental "illness", such as psychopathy or delayed development or
brain injury, to name a few.
The fool is more of an innocent child, for me. Madness of any sort doesn't come into it (and if we are going by TdM titles,
not every Empress is an empress, and so on...)
Depends on your point of view. The Fool is connected with Bacchus, god of wine and revelry:
He was also known as Bacchus , the name adopted by the Romans and the frenzy he induces, bakkheia. His thyrsus is
sometimes wound with ivy and dripping with honey. It is a beneficent wand but also a weapon, and can be used to destroy
those who oppose his cult and the freedoms he represents. He is also called Eleutherios ("the liberator"), whose wine,
music and ecstatic dance frees his followers from self-conscious fear and care, and subverts the oppressive restraints of
the powerful. Those who partake of his mysteries are possessed and empowered by the god himself.
http://www.magick13.com/wp-content/u..._fool_full.jpg
Look at those eyes and tell me there isn't some madness there! Even in the childlike innocence that you mention, there is
a certain madness. A child throwing a tantrum cares little for anything, all he sees is what he wants, with almost dangerous
single-mindedness.
The Fool is very childlike, I think. He's impulsive and he doesn't watch where he's going. It's as though his mind is a clean
slate and he doesn't know how to write on it yet.
There are mental "conditions" that are not considered mental "illness", such as psychopathy or delayed development or
brain injury, to name a few.
I think you might have hit on something there....
Depends on your point of view. The Fool is connected with Bacchus, god of wine and revelry:
Look at those eyes and tell me there isn't some madness there! Even in the childlike innocence that you mention, there is
a certain madness. A child throwing a tantrum cares little for anything, all he sees is what he wants, with almost dangerous
single-mindedness.
Closrapexa, I do think this is exactly the point ! Yes, that kind of madness, the childlike tantrum thing, and the
revelry...makes me think of drugs, as well...the kind of loss of control caused by intoxication of some kind....
Nikita,
Grandmaster Crowley would certainly agree to your view. The Book of Thoth says about The Fool:
"In material matters, it may, if badly dignified, mean folly, eccentricity, or even mania."
And older literature frequently describes The Fool as crazy. Indeed there is sometimes a thin line between inspiration
(genius) and madness.
Over time, I've convinced myself that the Fool, in certain contexts and in combination with certain cards, is a strong
indicator for mental illness. I dug out one of the books I have about tarot, and there, in fact, there is an old interpretation
of the Fool as " madness, folly, dementia, foolery, extravagance...disorder, intoxication, frenzy..delusion...senseless,
irrational..." and so on.
I was wondering if you have had similar experiences with it....
If you look at the early Visconti Fools, they have the bulging eyes and swollen throats of hypothyroid cretinism. Mental
illnesses can be brought about by physical illnesses, and I've always seen this in this card. Perhaps he waltzes off cliff-
edges because her doesn't have the sanity to realise that hitting the rocks below will hurt.
And then again, Tarot can be quite literal. A friend of mine kept pulling The Tower before his house needed re-roofing
(it shows a picture of a building with roof problems, in most decks). In its literal mode, expect the Fool to come out when
the deck is saying "this is foolish" or "you're being foolish".
Even when we get the Moon, which we all agree is a sign of mental illness, or at least it can be ...
I don't agree with 'this one' - either! Too sweeping a generalization ...
Nikita,
Grandmaster Crowley would certainly agree to your view. The Book of Thoth says about The Fool:
"In material matters, it may, if badly dignified, mean folly, eccentricity, or even mania."
And older literature frequently describes The Fool as crazy. Indeed there is sometimes a thin line between inspiration
(genius) and madness.
Thank you !!! I didn't know that about Crowley; I use the RW deck, so I'm not that familiar with Crowley's, though I have
owned it, but what you said it's most interesting...and Crowley is certainly someone who knew what he was talking about...
If you look at the early Visconti Fools, they have the bulging eyes and swollen throats of hypothyroid cretinism. Mental
illnesses can be brought about by physical illnesses, and I've always seen this in this card. Perhaps he waltzes off cliff-
edges because her doesn't have the sanity to realise that hitting the rocks below will hurt.
And then again, Tarot can be quite literal. A friend of mine kept pulling The Tower before his house needed re-roofing (it
shows a picture of a building with roof problems, in most decks). In its literal mode, expect the Fool to come out when
the deck is saying "this is foolish" or "you're being foolish".
Thank you, nisaba, very interesting...and yes, the cards can be quite literal at times, and when I kept getting the Fool in a
reading for a guy who did suffer from a mental disorder, and whose behaviour was very impulsive and out of control, it
was very clear to me that that card was screaming " he's crazy " ....and yes, the Fool's jump can be a posive, trust-in-the-
unknown thing, but it can also be a dangerous thing done out of insanity, which will end up in tragedy...that's the meaning
of the Fool rx anyway, isn't it ?
I don't agree with 'this one' - either! Too sweeping a generalization ...
You don't agree that the Moon, in certain contexts, can be a strong sign of mental illness or depression ? I don't see where
the sweeping generalization is...I did say it depends on surrounding cards and context...
You don't agree that the Moon, in certain contexts, can be a strong sign of mental illness or depression ? I don't see where
the sweeping generalization is...I did say it depends on surrounding cards and context...
I think the idea that any one card is a strong sign of anything is a sweeping generalisation.
I think the idea that any one card is a strong sign of anything is a sweeping generalisation.
Do you agree that that is one of the possible meanings of the Moon, or not ?
Do you agree that that is one of the possible meanings of the Moon, or not ?
Only ever in context. And actually - I have to say it hasn't ever come up as suggesting depression for me, even in context.
But any meaning can attach to almost any card IN CONTEXT. See under 10 swords > happy marriage !
I find these "does this card suggest that" threads very strange.
I think you should re-read my posts in this thread. About the Moon, and in general. The expression IN CERTAIN
CONTEXTS, and SURROUNDED BY CERTAIN CARDS was always there, loud and clear.
And no, I don't think any card can mean anything. I think the association of the Fool with madness, and as a consequence,
mental illness, is fairly logical. Certainly, I think it's much harder to explain why the 10 of swords would mean " a happy
marriage ".
I think you should re-read my posts in this thread. About the Moon, and in general. The expression IN CERTAIN
CONTEXTS, and SURROUNDED BY CERTAIN CARDS was always there, loud and clear.
Yes it was. And if you read mine, you will see that I said
I don't see that attaching any particular meaning to any particular card - even in context - is necessarily "logical". I don't
even see tarot as logical.
I didn't/don't have to explain why 10 swords came up as happy marriage. As soon as I said hey, lookit, my SITTER saw
it as well... Don't ask me. Tarot is marvellous stuff.
Yes it was. And if you read mine, you will see that I said
I don't see that attaching any particular meaning to any particular card - even in context - is necessarily "logical". I don't
even see tarot as logical.
I didn't/don't have to explain why 10 swords came up as happy marriage. As soon as I said hey, lookit, my SITTER saw
it as well... Don't ask me. Tarot is marvellous stuff.
Maybe it was a piece of inuitive reading....
Odd that she got it straight out too....
But that's the POINT - tarot works in mysterious ways.
And no, I don't think any card can mean anything. I think the association of the Fool with madness, and as a consequence,
mental illness, is fairly logical. Certainly, I think it's much harder to explain why the 10 of swords would mean " a happy
marriage ".
I totally agree with you, Nikita. If any card could mean anything, why not use a BLANK deck?
I totally agree with you, Nikita. If any card could mean anything, why not use a BLANK deck?
I don't think it is the question of what the card means but what it means TO YOU as a reader. So much so that the same
card could trigger different interpretations from different people...
Btw, many readers do use a blank card to read, almost as scrying.
Btw, many readers do use a blank card to read, almost as scrying.
Yes, cards can mean different things to different people and according to the situation, but there is a core meaning for
every card, that comes from tradition and the teachings of the "Masters "...and those who use blank cards are usually
psychics, they might as well read coffee funds or clouds...
That's a good question. I have heard it said before that cards would have the meanings that you attribute to them. There
may be some truth to that. However, every card is a pictorial expression of a not so arbitrary archetypal content. Moreover,
depending on the deck, some or all of the following colors the meaning of a card:
- Elemental traits
- Numerical traits
- Qabalistic traits
- Astrological traits
- Colors
Etc.
Again, all of these are more or less clearly defined in esoteric/psychological lore.
Furthermore, if "anything goes", what use would it be to even talk about the interpretation of a card or spread with other
Tarot readers? And could you ever hope to learn something new about your cards by reading books etc.?
Personally, I don't buy anything I read or hear at face value, but I believe that my cards will show me how they want me
to understand them, rather than the other way around.
Food for thought.
It's one of the possible meanings of many cards: Major Arcarnae, Courts and Minors. I think it was the "we're all agreed
that" statement that Gregory, I and a heap of other people would have objected to.
I don't think that there are a lot of other cards that hint to that kind of problem in the same way as the Moon...unless we
go back to the idea that any card can mean anything to anybody...which I personally disagree with....but yes, maybe I
shouldn't have made assumptions as to Others read the cards....
For example, my first associations for the Moon, and I've been doing this for a long time, are mystery, beauty, shadow,
perception, the Goddess, change, inner contemplation. I've had clients that were absolutely barking-mad and the cards on
the table confirmed it, and never a Moon in sight.
perception, the Goddess, change, inner contemplation. I've had clients that were absolutely barking-mad and the cards
on the table confirmed it, and never a Moon in sight.
I didn't say it's THE ONLY CARD indicating mental problems...and I'd still be curious to hear what heaps of other cards
hint at madness...
perception, the Goddess, change, inner contemplation. I've had clients that were absolutely barking-mad and the cards
on the table confirmed it, and never a Moon in sight.
And by the way, I never said that that was THE ONLY MEANING of the Moon either...
I didn't say it's THE ONLY CARD indicating mental problems...and I'd still be curious to hear what heaps of other cards
hint at madness...
MAJORS
The Fool
The Magician
The Empress
The Emperor
The Hierophant
The Hermit
The Wheel of Fortune
Strength
Hanged Man
Devil
Tower
Star
Moon
Judgement
WANDS
Three Wands
Five Wands
Six Wands
Seven Wands
Nine Wands
Ten Wands
all the Courts
SWORDS
Two Swords
Three Swords
Four Swords
Five Swords
Eight Swords
Nine Swords
Ten Swords
all the Courts
CUPS
Ace Cups
Five Cups
Six Cups
Seven Cups
Eight Cups
Nine Cups
all the Courts
PENTACLES
Two Pentacles
Four Pentacles
Five Pentacles
Seven Pentacles
all the Courts
All of these cards are as likely as the Moon to represent mental illness (or recovery from mental illness) of different kinds,
and are also just as Unlikely as the Moon to represent these things, depending on what else is going on in the spread.
Haven't waded through the replies, so perhaps this has already been covered. My grandmother, who now has very acute
short term memory loss has come up as The Fool in quite a few of my recent readings. I saw it as her *second childhood*.
She's much less inhibited than normal in what she says - sometimes quite crude (though always funny !) I guess that some
on lookers might be disturbed by her behaviour/comments, and perhaps she might have been labelled as *mad* in a more
distant past when there was less understanding of mental conditions.
Some of the cards in nisaba's list could indeed stand for mental illness, others, by themselves, not so likely.
Let's look at it from another angle. In astrology, Uranus represents originality, freedom, inspiration - I have indeed seen
him linked with The Fool in a book. But Uranus can also manifest as psychological instability, craziness, etc. He is
frequently quite prominent in the charts of mentally disturbed individuals.
It goes without saying that 'mental illness' is a very broad term. The Fool would most likely signify conditions of mania
and pronounced unreasonable (foolish) behaviour. Whereas violent outbreaks can be represented by The Tower. Where
fear is prevalent, we would expect The Moon. A state of frequent auto-aggressive thinking could be represented by 10 of
Swords. Etc.
Other cards, let's say The Magician or The Star would hardly signify such conditions. Of course, reversing them might
modify their meanings accordingly but we are talking about their fundamental traits here. (Personally, I don't reverse
cards.)
I think it really is a case of agreeing not to agree, and I'm the one who usually takes the opposite approach. While it is
true that I don't see the Fool as mental illness, that doesn't mean I can't make sense out of that assumption. Regardless of
the dry definition, every person builds a relationship with themselves as to what cards say what and why. Personally I see
mental illness more in line with the Ten of Swords or Seven of Cups (depending on the illness!). But with so many shades
of meaning to every card, unless someone is saying that something like the Emperor means nothing but aliens from outer
space, I would say it is in the ballpark. Tarot may be a type of language, but it is a language that you create anew with
every application. A card meaning something in one reading could mean exactly the opposite in another, so I really do
favor the approach of winging it and building the meaning out of attributions every time you look at a card. When you
construct the meaning on the fly as a sort of equation of path+astrology+world, this gives a lot of flexibility to adapt any
meaning to any situation.
Plus, I don't know card meanings and I could never memorize them.
Finally, the Fool is the elemental card of Air, and so has close connections with the Swords. So there is that.
Other cards, let's say The Magician or The Star would hardly signify such conditions.
the Magician: delusions of grandeur and megalomania.
The Star: unrealistic exaggerated optimism and exaggerated avoidance of problems.
What the hey, who not look at them all.
The Fool: learning difficulties, retardation, refusal to accept reality
The Empress Munchhausen and other forms of mother-related obsession
The Emperor: a refusal to accept that anyone other than themselves could ever be right
The Hierophant: "God told me to do it"
the Hermit: antisocial behaviour
The Wheel of Fortune Bipolar/manic-depression
Strength: "magical thinking"
Hanged Man: hysterical paralysis; any fear-state that prevents action of decision-making
Devil: "The Devil made me do it" - inability to control antisocial urges
Tower "catastrophising thinking"
Judgement: delusions of grandeur, inability to accept the humanity of others
Look, that's taken me nearly a quarter of an hour. I'll look at the Minor cards tomorrow if I have time - it's not long before
midnight and I'm tired. Tomorrow my day is full of appointments but I'll see.
I stress: they are not only about madness, no more than the Fool or the Moon are only about madness.
But with so many shades of meaning to every card, unless someone is saying that something like the Emperor means
nothing but aliens from outer space, I would say it is in the ballpark.
<grin> A friend of mine insists that the Judgement card is always about legal documents, and only legal documents. He
talked about the many legal documents he thought it might mean in my life, I kept patiently saying "not relevant ... not
relevant." He got desperate: "You have a driver's licence, don't you?" Well, yes I do - so does most of the adult population.
Most of us have eyebrows, too, but I wouldn't expect to pull a card about eyebrows. <grin>. I'm not saying it couldn't
happen - I've pulled cards about stranger things over the decades ...
I only got emphatic when it was said that WE ALL agreed that the Moon always meant mental problems. What - I'm
suddenly not a part of "all"??? And how does a mortal (as opposed to an omniscient god) know what all people think?
When using Tarot for divination, readers come up with all sorts of weird stuff, meanings that I would never associate with
the particular cards. For example.... The Emperor is an egotistic beast who always has to get his way. The Hierophant is
a nasty sort who uses religion to lord it over others. The Hermit is an antisocial loner why is searching for something. The
High Priestess is all about secrets. The Lovers is about choices. The Fool is foolish. The list goes on and on. Readers are
a highly imaginative sort!
Obviously I could never be a fortune teller, so it doesn't matter what I think, so don't let it concern you.
Le Mat is archaic French for madman or fool. I can think of the Fool as a madman, but not mentally ill, more like the
crazy men idolized in Taoist literature who wander around meditating and forget where they are. Was Crazy Horse crazy?
Hardly! The Sufi mystic Nasreddin was often portrayed as a fool, probably because he was almost miraculously clever.
Parsifal was characterized as a pure, innocent fool. He was quite a fool indeed, who could never be defeated in battle and
became the Grail King! The Fool can certainly be woefully ignorant, but there is nothing wrong with his mind.
I certainly don't expect anyone to agree with my view of the archetypes which constitute the Major Arcana. It really only
depends on how you use Tarot.
It's just that some of us question the premiss of the question. The Fool as Mental Illness - not particularly, is all. But that
seems to be not OK as a response ?
No, that's perfectly alright...I just strongly disagree with the idea than ANY card potentially could mean that....like many
of those in nisaba's list...maybe the Fool doesn't mean that, but that doesn't mean that heaps of other cards could...am I
allowed to say that ?
Funny you didn't mention Temperance Rx, the ONE card that, in my experience, strongly indicates bipolar disorder
I agree that The Fool can represent mental illness in context. I also don't think it's much of a stretch at all to say The Star
can represent narcissism which, while maybe not a mental illness, is certainly a personality disorder (and the line between
those is blurry). Then again, it depends very much on the deck being used. I have been studying with the Mary-el and
interpreted the Ace of Swords as a representation of mental illness.
I know a lot of people in comments have made the point about just saying it's mental illness is too vague, tarot is a lot
more complex than that and that is true. The Fool has many different meanings and almost a spectrum of that "free spirit"
idea. Some cards have him in different places, maybe even flying from the ledge and where do we see him, is he about to
jump or just standing by the edge? there is so many variables!
people with mental or physical health or learning difficulties with this card would be people who do take risks, perhaps
they are even unsafe to be left alone. I can see that card fitting that. But then my brother has no physical or mental health
problems but loves his extreme sports, he is always injuried in some way! he loves the adrenalin! he is also The Fool! he
chooses to take risks and having watched him he is crazy, I would never be jumping or doing that! He loves it and takes
that decision as an adult. He doesn't think about the consequences at the time. If he heard that jumping off that rock in the
card was the ultimate adrenaline rush, he would be there!
people with depression or anxiety disorders are not The Fool in the majority and that is some of the most common mental
health issues there are. They are the opposite, instead of that freedom and in the moment, they are chained and bound,
trapped in cycles! In my own chronic mental health problems I would describe them as the devil + the moon (and that
doesn't even fit dear Nisaba's quick meaning for every mental illness list). I couldn't put it as one card, it's too complex
and the tarot is too complex. I am entirely chained by my health problems. In fact I meditate on the The Fool for the
properties of living in the moment and taking risks! The Fool does not fear and lives in the moment. So he is the opposite
to me.
We have to take every situation and spread as it comes but I couldn't look at someone and see The Fool and think "mental
health", it's bigger than that. I can see how it can represent some people though in some situations with some types of
health problems
Nisaba,
If I may quote myself with an added emphasis:
What this is to say is that, given a certain negative dignity, many cards on your list could indeed represent a state of mental
or emotional disturbance. Another possibility here that I briefly mentioned (albeit one I personally don't use) is to include
card reversals. In light of this, I find your list actually quite interesting. It could even be extended by further Trumps as
well as by the meanings assigned to the ones given.
We have something similar in traditional Astrology where you classify planets into "malefics" (Mars and Saturn) and
"benefics" (Venus and Jupiter) - but according to these planets' cosmic state in a given chart, the former may indeed have
quite a benevolent influence and the latter may be quite detrimental, respectively.
Likewise, the Major Arcana that I mentioned plus a few others are those that could indicate psychological afflictions
pretty much all by themselves whereas I would generally associate the remaining ones with more positive states, unless
influenced by further factors. Vice versa for your typical "tricky" cards.
Now, what about The Fool? I think he is really quite ambiguous.
I agree that The Fool can represent mental illness in context. I also don't think it's much of a stretch at all to say The Star
can represent narcissism which, while maybe not a mental illness, is certainly a personality disorder (and the line between
those is blurry). Then again, it depends very much on the deck being used. I have been studying with the Mary-el and
interpreted the Ace of Swords as a representation of mental illness.
Yes, I agree...I also think it's quite a stretch to demonstrate that most of the cards mentioned by nisaba have those extreme
meanings she gave, and I'm not saying they can NEVER mean that...I think nisaba wanted to drive a point home, and her
list of meanings was kind of a provocation...then again, I might be wrong...
Everything you wrote is very interesting, and like I said before, this isn't about making a professional diagnoses of WHAT
TYPE of mental illness a card stands for...only nisaba seems to have a detailed description for all mental disorders, going
from narcissism to thinking you are God, to munchhausen syndrome or bipolar disorder...good for her !
That said, some mental illnesses very often have two faces, the up and down of a depression, and the mood varies from
being suicidal-which would probably be the 9 of swords, or 10 of swords, or " chained" ( 8 of swords ?) to the "up" or
manic version, where indeed one gets very careless, dangerously so, for himself and/or others, does crazy things, loses
touch with reality and doesn't realize just how dangerous his behaviour is-and that would be the Fool, or yes, maybe even
the Magician, but in a different way....which is not to say, of course, that anyone who loves bungee jumping is mentally
ill....
No, that's perfectly alright...I just strongly disagree with the idea than ANY card potentially could mean that....
There are 78 cards in the standard tarot deck. When asking a question, any of those 78 cards has the potential to appear
in relation to a specific question or position. It's our duty as readers to be prepared to and able to interpret any card that
may appear in a particular position.
I don't normally interpret the cards as I did here, but given the context of which cards represent red flags in a relationship,
the answer actually is "All of them." I think that's where nisaba was going with her list of cards. All of the cards can apply
to mental illness, not just some of them.
Say you're doing a relationship reading for someone who's in a new relationship and one of the positions is "What red
flag(s) should I look out for?" and you get a "good" card like the Sun or the 9 Cups. As a reader you have to take that card
and run it through the filter of the position to come up with the answer. And you have to be prepared to do that for any
card that appears and not just the "bad" cards one might expect to appear as the answer.
I see what you are saying, but when NOT asking a specific question about mental illness, would you agree that certain
cards would be more alarming than others ? Say the Moon, more than the Emperess ?
Funny you didn't mention Temperance Rx, the ONE card that, in my experience, strongly indicates bipolar disorder
It may indicate RECOVERY from it, finding the mid-point, becoming balanced again.
It goes without saying that 'mental illness' is a very broad term. The Fool would most likely signify conditions of mania
and pronounced unreasonable (foolish) behaviour. Whereas violent outbreaks can be represented by The Tower. Where
fear is prevalent, we would expect The Moon. A state of frequent auto-aggressive thinking could be represented by 10 of
Swords.
You could add The Devil for addictictive and obsessive states.
This list is not meant to be comprehensive, of course.
I see what you are saying, but when NOT asking a specific question about mental illness, would you agree that certain
cards would be more alarming than others ? Say the Moon, more than the Emperess ?
Yes. If I were doing a reading about why X did what they did (or that was the position the card landed in), the Moon
would be more likely to lead me toward an interpretation of mental illness than the Empress would. I could also see the
Fool as mental illness in certain contexts and/or when accompanied by certain cards.
How about ADHD? The Fool goes any which way the wind blows him! One distractable and flighty dude but
maybe....squirrel!
May I ask why you are interested in how Tarot relates to mental illness? I'm curious because I was closely working
together with a psychiatrist during six years back in the 90s, using Bach Flower Therapy and Astrology and Tarot. (Of
course you can PM me if more appropriate for some reason.)
It may indicate RECOVERY from it, finding the mid-point, becoming balanced again.
I disagree....I also know Thirteen would disagree with you too...I've seen her posts elsewhere about this...and besides,
Temperance Rx is a chemical imbalance of some kind...
PS Every section of this forum is full of threads on Temperance Rx where all the posters disagree with you too...but I
guess you have your own tarot system for reading....
FOOL AND 9 OF SWORDS AS FEELINGS
I got the Fool and the 9 of Swords combination (RWS with reversals) as a representation of someone's feelings in general,
so not towards a specific domain or person in their life. At first sight, these card seem to contradict each other as the Fool
seems like happy-go-lucky and carefree, whereas 9 of Swords seems to indicate depression or anxiety.
I would say that this person wants to come across as carefree and happy (Fool) but most likely isn't (9 of Swords) and
probably wouldn't admit to it either. I wouldn't be surprised if he acutally were battling depression.
Not sure if there are any other interpretations possible?
Overall happy, but with a dark, guilty secret (maybe).
Tarot speaks to the details, rather than simply "in general." Do you have some facts that can be connected to the cards?
Otherwise, it's just a game (although that's fine).
Overall happy, but with a dark, guilty secret (maybe).
Tarot speaks to the details, rather than simply "in general." Do you have some facts that can be connected to the cards?
Otherwise, it's just a game (although that's fine).
The exact question I asked was "how does this person feel in general?" - The Fool. I asked a second question to clarify
the first "how does this person feel right now?" - 9 of Swords. I'm not sure which card's energy is the most overpowering
here; trying to hide behind a happy face, or being happy with some dark feelings in the background.
Okay, cool. So are there any facts at all?
He is my ex. He suddenly broke things off with me about 3 months ago because he was too busy with work. No contact
for 2 months. I sent him an email regarding a package he sent me containing my clothes that were still at his house, but
which was mistakenly shipped back to him. I was wondering how he felt about his life now.
The exact question I asked was "how does this person feel in general?" - The Fool. I asked a second question to clarify
the first "how does this person feel right now?" - 9 of Swords. I'm not sure which card's energy is the most overpowering
here; trying to hide behind a happy face, or being happy with some dark feelings in the background.
As a Major, the Fool's energy would be the dominant one. He's feeling carefree and like he's got a whole new outlook,
nothing set in stone and the world is at his feet. Carefree and maybe even reckless.
The 9 of Swords at the present, considering that you said he's working a lot, could just mean his concerns with his work
and keeping his nose to the grindstone.
Terrific, Tarot speaks to the facts. So maybe:
He has his freedom, but with (some) guilt and regret.
maybe he just doesnt know where is he going and that makes him feel "crazily anxious"
As a Major, the Fool's energy would be the dominant one. He's feeling carefree and like he's got a whole new outlook,
nothing set in stone and the world is at his feet. Carefree and maybe even reckless.
The 9 of Swords at the present, considering that you said he's working a lot, could just mean his concerns with his work
and keeping his nose to the grindstone.
Knowing him, I wouldn't classify him as a "Fool" person. He is very down to earth, overanalyzes everything. He is more
like a Hermit person. He usually wants to be on his own, thinking he fixes everything better himself without any
interference from other people. That's why I was so surprised to see the Fool appear.
Maybe the fact that nothing is set in stone (Fool) makes him anxious (9 of Swords)?
Terrific, Tarot speaks to the facts. So maybe:
He has his freedom, but with (some) guilt and regret.
That seems plausible. After all, he wanted to break things off in order to have more freedom.
maybe he just doesnt know where is he going and that makes him feel "crazily anxious"
That's possible too. As far as I know, he is going to travel abroad in the next few days. Maybe the Fool represents his
trip? But the fact that his mom is coming along causes him anxiety (9 of Swords)?
I think that the fool sugests that this person is not feeling too much at the moment as he's on his journey having some fun
and being to carefree to even think about someone.
And with the 9 of swords the cards are probably trying to tell you that u should stop asking or worrying too much. I get
this card when i repeat a question too many times and i feel it's telling me: "Jeez,girl stop asking this..you are hurting
yourself"
No longer relevant
Sure, that story and those cards could easily be a match (presumably additional facts would rule it in, or out).
THE FOOL... ORGASMS
What would you guys say this card means in terms of sexual excitement and satisfaction?
Not feelings or relationships, just raw sex.
I of course see it as happy and sexually pleased. I got this once for me and it was true..
I don't know if this applies to the question you asked but what comes to mind is some kind of fooling around with no
promises, some kind of adventure when you just take the risk and don't care much. Which can be pretty hot and exciting.
Falling out of bed....
Beeing open to the delights of new sexual experimentations?
I agree with what everyone says. There's no romance or feelings here. Just raw sexual experience. But I was curious to
know if The Fool is also sexual pleasure and satisfaction. Like, if you had sex and wanted to know if it was great and you
pulled The Fool.
You'd feel reenergized and happy go lucky as if life seemed better now
This card's imagery could show 'incomplete' satisfaction: being poised near the edge but never really "getting off"...
Perhaps it felt like sleeping with a Fool, as well: someone careless, unobservant, impulsive, and seemingly inexperienced
(despite any prior partners) -- lacking effective technique and the know-how needed to satisfy.
Another possibility is that the subject feels foolish about what happened, overriding physical impressions -- because it
was somehow risky, irresponsible and unwise (i.e. protection wasn't used, cheating was involved, etc.), or because of
gullibility/having apparently been "used".
I agree with what everyone says. There's no romance or feelings here. Just raw sexual experience. But I was curious to
know if The Fool is also sexual pleasure and satisfaction. Like, if you had sex and wanted to know if it was great and you
pulled The Fool.
You don't KNOW, after sex, if it was great ??? I don't know about anyone else, but I can tell, personally
As the Fool relates to nothingness and pure potential, I'd see this card as a really, really great orgasm. The ones when you
lose yourself completely in the other, you know? Little death as to say.
Maybe the Fool card is saying, "You have to ASK?!! Can't you tell whether it was great sex without drawing a card?" In
other words, it's a Fool-ish question.
If I was reading for someone who asked me if they had fully pleased their partner the fool would lead me to think that
while they were off to a good start, they will eventually realize they had much to learn about pleasing this partner. I
wouldn't think it was lack of ability and certainly not enthusiasm, simply just a matter of inexperience with that particular
person. I'd also think the partner was willing to provide the opportunity.
I agree with the "little death", "la petite mort", that was the first thing that came to my mind on seeing the thread title.
But also - the kind of occasion when things just happen, pretty quickly, without inhibition or anxiety or self-consciousness.
Almost out-of-the-body. Tends not to be "out of one's mind" (ie without self-awareness, and usually while sober) but very
free, very freeing, and happy. That sound a bit Fool ish?
Of course there's always falling out of bed. Or off the kitchen table.
I know it was great. Wanted to know what the fool was saying in regards to it.
It's usually something positive but I've never seen what it meant in a sexual question. I just see it as very big and satisfying.
If you need details let's just say she was trembling, shaking, loud, and things were wet lol
It's usually something positive but I've never seen what it meant in a sexual question. I just see it as very big and satisfying.
Look at the last four words of that sentence and maybe you've answered your own question.
After all, the reader's first impression is usually the most reliable interpretation of any card.
TMI. That was unnecessary. But Fool - when you KNEW - as Griz said - you were a Fool to ask.
The Fool as regards to sex means finding new and playful ways to express your carnal self with a partner, exploring novel
and perhaps kinky means to get yourselves off without caring what other people might think (perhaps because it is done
in the privacy of your bed and is therefore not subject to prying eyes). I interpret this as something wholly positive, since
experimentation keeps things from getting stagnant, and since at the very least you can find new techniques to satisfy
your or your partner/s. It can also be the breath of fresh air (the element attibute of the Fool) needed to alleviate the
doldrums of an increasingly tedious relationship, as long as there is genuine curiosity and good communication between
both parties and they have an open mind about it.
TMI. That was unnecessary. But Fool - when you KNEW - as Griz said - you were a Fool to ask.
lol you're right. Excuse my vanity. Just wanted to make sure I still got it :
Maybe in response to the question , the fool represents that the sexual excitement was new(different from past) or
depending on the situation with someone new(a new lover perhaps). Or it could also mean new beginnings as in you have
not explored this type of purely physical relationship before. Again it is difficult to ascertain the exact meaning without
more information. Hope that helps.
The Fool as regards to sex means finding new and playful ways to express your carnal self with a partner, exploring novel
and perhaps kinky means to get yourselves off without caring what other people might think (perhaps because it is done
in the privacy of your bed and is therefore not subject to prying eyes).
Interesting take - I'm not sure I agree that privacy is in the Fool card. The RWS image is not only in the open air, but up
high in full view of the world, and unconcerned who's looking (at least the man isn't checking to see if anyone's watching).
Experimentation I do agree with though. The open mind. Or surprise, shock - which may be positive or negative. With
the wrong cards it could even mean rape. Something unforeseen. Or getting oneself in too deep by behaving recklessly.
I suppose I feel that the curiosity and surprise element are about the sitter's experience, not the reaction that the wider
world has, or would have if it knew
If I had to say, for me I would say that it is not the act of sex. But more the anticipation of it. Like smiling to yourself all
day at work, knowing you are going to have sex that night and that it is going to be GOOD! For me, it's more of the
looking forward to having it than actually having it. And expecting it to be great.
THE FOOL AND FEAR
I recently read something really interesting about the Fool, that he is about abandoning fear, which seemed to imply trust,
which in turn implies the form of innocence he is often associated with. I always used to draw it as guidance for myself
some years ago and now I always draw the card when I ask how a particular person feels about me. I never used to act on
the advice of the Fool because I was too afraid. Could it be that then: that if someone feels the Fool about someone, they
feel afraid to take a leap of faith?
Or the opposite. Like when all your instincts are saying yes and you're excited by the prospect, and then you try to inject
some caution. Maybe I shouldn't, what if, etc. Really you should go with your instincts though and trust your gut, trust
the universe, trust the person. Take the leap of faith.
But as always the meanings can vary a bit, with or without using reversals. So, yeah, still a fair interpretation.
He has no fear, he marches forth into places where ordinary people fear to thread, he has absolute faith in himself and
what he is doing, some call him a fool but he knows the score
I guess the Fool as advice is different to the Fool as feelings, but maybe not that different. If the Fool knows no fear and
makes you feel 'yes, that's it', why would someone not act on that is what I wonder?
You asked if someone's feelings are the Fool, why they would not act on that....
A friend and I were recently talking about this. She said that love, feelings and desires do not always conquer all,
unfortunately.
Dysfunction can be strong, and unbreakable no matter how strong your feelings and desires are for another person. I'm
not talking huge dysfunction, but when it comes down to it, some aspects of the personality just cannot be overridden,
even though the Fool's leap would possibly gain the person great happiness.
Those are my thoughts on it.
That sounds very plausible, Whitestar, though very sad, too. I remember now that the neighbouring cards were the Moon
and Strength, Strength how I come across and the Moon as their thoughts about me. I always think of the Moon as
something that pulls you under and over which you don't have control, a fear of drowning almost. It's almost as if the fear
of the Moon overrides the encouragement of the Fool.
It is very sad, sad when you know how things could be, but the other person just can't take the plunge.
Just because the other person is feeling like the Moon right NOW, doesn't mean that that won't change with time and
patience and growth...eventually maybe they will become the Fool!!!
In getting the Fool as feelings, I would think that lack of fear is a given. But our Fool has impossibly beautiful goals at
times. In the context of a reading a Fool might become practical, sometimes an unfortunate but likely happening.
In getting the Fool as feelings, I would think that lack of fear is a given. But our Fool has impossibly beautiful goals at
times.
I like the way you put that. Now that I think of it, the Fool has also meant someone's desire for freedom, either their own
or someone else's.
In the context of a reading a Fool might become practical, sometimes an unfortunate but likely happening.
How would that manifest in a reading then?
I like the way you put that. Now that I think of it, the Fool has also meant someone's desire for freedom, either their own
or someone else's. How would that manifest in a reading then?
By other cards Perhaps (RWS) one must take into consideration that the Fool travels light. He's not bringing emotional
baggage with him even though that dog is nipping at his pant hem.
Traditionally, (RWS) the fools bundle represents all wisdom...but I kinda wonder if perhaps it represents the negative
emotions (hurt, fear, anger, etc,.) that would slow him down on his journey, and get in the way of his fearless trusting.
Of course, that would make him either a Wise Fool, or an Emotionally Dysfunctional one....or maybe only just distanced?
So if you got the Fool in the feelings position, this is what it could mean to you? A kind of reversed Fool?
They Fool is entering a new cycle. He carries his wisdom lightly and steps into the unknown without fear. As feelings, it
may mean that the other person is ignorant of any feelings. That they enter the relationship without fear because they
know no fear. He ignores any warnings for good or bad and lets nothing stand in his way. As he steps over the cliff edge,
he is not aware off, he may fly or fall. That's the point - it's stepping into the unknown without knowing where you will
end up.
The concept of Fear and cowardice fits very well with one sense of the depiction, where on 12th century Cathedrals
(Amiens and Paris for two of these) Cowardice is depicted with a person dropping his weapon in fear as a rabbit or hare
jumps towards him from behind.
http://fourhares.com/images/Amiens_Mat.jpg
Makes one think of the 1972 film Night of the Lepus, or Monty Python's "Holy Grail"!
When I got my Visconti deck, there was a differentl looking Fool. He looked like he had regrets about what he had done
- and he was wearing feathers in his hair like a crown.
I thought it was odd until I did some research and discovered that this Fool seems to be modeled after 'La Stoltezza' (The
Stupidity) which is one of the Allegories of the Virtues and Vices carvings at Scrovegni Chapel. Those carvings took my
breath away!
I believe I read that both the carvings and the deck was done by the same artist, so it would seem to make sense that the
inspiration for a Fool would be a depiction of Stupidity. However, the Fool wasn't shown as Stupidity is - walking off
with eyes skyward, oblivious to what is ahead - this depiction is like 'the morning after,' and there did seem to be fear of
'what have I gotten myself in for?' It put the Fool in a whole new perspective for me. Sorry to sound ignorant - but perhaps
during this time period behaving like a Fool was frowned upon so it was depicted within the context of the aftermath?
I've attached an image I found for the Fool in the Visconti. I'll post a better image tomorrow when I have better light to
take a photo.
This and jmd's comments make a lot of sense. I've never thought of the Fool as having regrets/ stupidity (what have I let
myself in for), but it would fit the situation perfectly. I suppose it's another aspect of the Fool representing folly. But I
was using the RWS for these draws, and this Fool doesn't look like he has any regrets. I'm beginning to think though that
the deck used doesn't matter. It's the idea behind the image that matters.
But that is why the Fool is 0. He may leap into any part of the Tarot cycle, even the Tower. To me, he is the Trickster and
the most likely to get you into trouble.
To me, he is the Trickster and the most likely to get you into trouble.
Which for prudent minds would be good reason not to jump.
Which for prudent minds would be good reason not to jump.
Prudent yes and the least adventurous. Also those with the least faith in the Universe or themselves. If the Fool doesn't
jump, he won't go on his Tarot Journey and he will stagnate.
A good ponder. Maybe I should forward this to the person in question
True! And despite the potential aftermath of that jump/fall, he continues... one second after the scene depicted in the
Waite Smith Fool, he is face flat on the ground, picking himself up, dusting off and continuing his trip
I think this would apply to the Fool Rx, the person who is unwilling to take a risk, the person who certainly looks before
they leap, the "stay at home" because the world is to big and dangerous to go running around in it. The person who is too
fearful to be able to make a move of any kind, always worried and cut off from the rest of us. The timid mouse who will
die of starvation because he fears venturing out of his safe little nest.
True! And despite the potential aftermath of that jump/fall, he continues... one second after the scene depicted in the Waite
Smith Fool, he is face flat on the ground, picking himself up, dusting off and continuing his trip
I've always thought that some of the time he pulls it off, and actually does walk on air.. My sister once had a dream about
me that I was flying a plane straight into a cliff face and she was sure I would be smashed to smithereens, but at the last
possible moment I went vertically up instead, and came to no harm.
I think the fool can do that some of the time, and he trusts in that inner unconscious knowledge.
If you have the faith then you can walk on water, the Fool upright has the faith
It took a long time for me to grasp this. Eden Gray boiled it down to this: "A fresh choice is before you. Choose wisely."
I, rather unwisely, didn't bother with the weight of the second half of her representation of the Fool for quite a long time.
Blind admiration!
Well said, caridwen. And again -
But that is why the Fool is 0. He may leap into any part of the Tarot cycle, even the Tower. To me, he is the Trickster and
the most likely to get you into trouble.
Some lessons come hard. I told my daughter not to finance a new car, the time wasn't right. She had to have the new car.
Now she's constantly complaining about the loan and the awkward financial position it has placed her because she
"jumped the gun". The fool leaping into the Tower.
Sometimes his bread falls butter side up, sometimes down.
If one were to get the Fool as a daily one-card draw ... hrrmmm
So if you ask the question 'how does x feel about y', what would it be then? I'm getting more confused the more I read
Personally, with that question and that answer, I would draw a clarifying card. The Fool can mean too many contradictory
things with a question like that. A question requires an an answer with at least some hope of completeness, a sentence
rather than a phrase. You need more words in this sentence. I'd pull another card or few.
Personally, with that question and that answer, I would draw a clarifying card. The Fool can mean too many
contradictory things with a question like that. A question requires an an answer with at least some hope of completeness,
a sentence rather than a phrase. You need more words in this sentence. I'd pull another card or few.
You are probably right. It's odd - I draw this card in answer to this question (with a more specific slant) with uncanny
regularity.
I recently read something really interesting about the Fool, that he is about abandoning fear, which seemed to imply trust,
which in turn implies the form of innocence he is often associated with. I always used to draw it as guidance for myself
some years ago and now I always draw the card when I ask how a particular person feels about me. I never used to act
on the advice of the Fool because I was too afraid. Could it be that then: that if someone feels the Fool about someone,
they feel afraid to take a leap of faith?
To me the Fool is like the child who has not yet learnt to fear or mistrust, have not yet been hurt enough by life to know
these feelings. He/she is still in a state of pure innocence. Like so many people mistrust the opposite sex because they
have been hurt in relationships, the Fook is them before all this, before they learnt to mistrust.
Well, to me it means the opposite, Someone who fears may get the Fool card as he is being asked not to, to go back to
that time in their lives before they learnt fear and try to act from that place within them. To me then in someone feels the
Fool, they are reminded that they still have the memories of feeling that way inside them. They are being asked to access
them ans use them. There is a part of them that knows how to feel carefree towards that person. They have that in them,
maybe sometimes buried in fears. Then they are being asked to ignore the fears and to focus on the carefree feeling that
is beneath them instead.
I see the Fool as the absence of whatever. The big 0. The big negative. Then at the end of the Majors, you have the World,
which is the big 0 with someone standing in it. So it seems that the Fool would mean that the person hasn't formed any
real feelings, wouldn't it? That he/she is plunging off the cliff blindly without giving it any thought or feeling anything in
particular. He's not abandoning fear because he just never had any in the first place.
I had just read through this thread and by the time I got to the end of it, thought perhaps that the Fool for his feelings had
more to do with his position in the majors... as 0 or nothing and then read Solitare's post which says it better than I could
have.
It's all still in the formative stage and while he is fearless, the Foolhasn't yet stepped over the edge or made that leap...
and with Strength coming after that... you can't force it or rush it, but let it happen... having confidence that it will, simply
by building trust.
FOOL AS OUTCOME
Hi my question doing my spread was would I get to see the girl I've been seeing soon ( as not seen her for a while) and
got the fool as an outcome? I'd be grateful for your interpretations on this as I have a few different thoughts!!
The fool in this position may suggest that u stop worrying about when you will see her again. The greatest thing about
the fool is that things work out for those who takes on its influence no matter what(care free and being okay with not
knowing the how, when, and where). But in my opinion the Tarot has someting more important to tell you... Enjoy
yourself, dont cling to her just yet because the universe needs you to be open to more great things at the moment. Also
do you remember that old philosophy that goes "believe and you'll receive". The fool is also about unbridled belief to the
point you can relax and know in your heart whatever you want will come... The fool is a great card and it not only says
yes but it says "yes, feel free to go with the flow, because thats the only way it'll happen" Think of the word
"spontaneous"...you may just run into her when you least expect it. The fool is full of surprises. I hope this helps.
Funny you should say spontaneous as our meetings are nearly always spur of the moment due to her situation, despite my
liking to plan things lol yes am definitely worrying about when!! Thanks for the help x
I'd like to suggest that you are asking a yes/no question to a story answer type. I'd suggest for you to ask something like
"what does my relationship with X brings in the next Y weeks/months?
I believe you'll receive a better answer. Otherwise do a yes/no spread, I'd suggest.
***The Fool suggests no, as the fool is quite blind to all that's going on around him.
As for your phrasing of the question, I for one find it good and straight to the point, carry on.
I'd say the fool is on a journey of discovery - so rather than being blind, he just doesn't know what's around the next
corner. So - you may see her soon - or you may not.
I'd say your chances of "seeing her soon" are - zero.
THE FOOL AS SOMEONE'S REACTION
Hello all,
I have received the Fool as someone's reaction to an important question (around their potential participation in a financial
contract).
How do you guys see the Fool in this context? A fresh start, a risky venture? A careless or thoughtless idea?
Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!
I think the one thing we can say about the Fool no matter how you see it...the person isn't ready to do serious work. Even
at his best, which is full of energy, delighted and optimistic....he's wide-eyed and distracted. Which might be great in
other situations, but probably not if it involves money.
I think this person's reaction will be that however great the contract, the participants aren't serious enough, or the contract
itself isn't nailed down enough; that this venture isn't in the real world enough.
Thank you, Thirteen. So what I understand is that the idea here is one of a lack of seriousness or groundedness around
this financial contract. This makes sense, of course. My thought was that the idea around the possibility of the contract
was not well thought through (The Fool is Air, so this whole contract thing was an intellectual exercise, and not well
"aspected" when originating from the Fool's volatile mind)...
Very grateful for your light here!
Heh. Well the Fool is hardly an intellectual. It's more a matter of "Castles out of air..."--thoughts breezing this way and
that. A motley compendium of ideas. He may say clever things (wise fool) or he may utter complete nonsense, but the
reason he's a "fool" (whether you care to see that as enlightened fool or idiot) is that he doesn't see a difference between
them. The wise thought and the nonsense thought are both equally new, fresh and wonderful.
Which, again, is fine for some things, but when it comes to to money, most people would prefer that the participants
and/or contract know the difference. It would certainly make me nervous if I felt that I was entering into a financial
contract with someone who didn't or couldn't distinguish between what was really a good idea and what was utter
nonsense.
I like the concept of "castles out of the air". This card is very revealing of the psychology behind the protagonists at play,
an older dad and his younger son, the "Fool". It has given me some insight as to what the dad might be thinking of his
son, and it isn't positive, as least when it comes down to this financial contract!
For me it would likely say that they are feel excited about it and are looking forward to getting started. That they anticipate
good things to come in the future from it. A sense of excitement even, about getting started.
1) They could be about to do something very Fool-ish.
2) The whole situation may eventually have them wanting to jump off a cliff.
3) They're going into this blind to the dangers ahead.
Just on those three possible interpretations never mind your own stab at it, I really don't think this financial contract looks
like a good idea for them. They need to get a lawyer and/or accountant to look it over *before* they sign up.
Thanks Babs. There's definitely a sense of excitement as a new journey begins for this man, but the careless nature of the
contract he was considering had me warn him against it...
As a "reaction," perhaps puzzled or perplexed, but above all unready. If he's thinking of this as a hopeful "leap of faith,"
he should think again, more carefully.
I would think that the participant whose reaction was indicated by The Fool would initially be quite enthusiastic. They'd
be wanting to get started, jump right in. However, they might become bored with the venture fairly soon, going off to the
next grand adventure and forgetting this one. OTOH, if the situation required work on their part, they might quickly
become disillusioned and want to move on to something easier or, again, more exciting.
THE FOOL AS AN OUT COME CARD
Hi
Could someone, please give me some opinions and meanings as to recieving the Fool in the outcome position?
.Im not sure if i need to give you the complete reading i did, but it was a simple choice's spread, i.e. which path to follow..A
or B. I actually posted it on this forum and got some amazing and insightful feedback!
It was a huge life changing step which i actually undertook 2 years ago, and the path i chose had the Fool as the outcome
card..
Things have been difficult at times, confusing, definately not as i had expected and has put me in a few unhappy situtions
and although im sticking with my decision, because to be honest the other path held more uncertainty, im beginning to
wonder if i made the right move.. I know the fool has negatives but ive always felt personally that the positive's shone
through more when seeing this card
I am planning on doing another reading for myself, but thought i would ask for some views as to the Fool card generally
and especially in an outcome position...Any help would be welcome lol
The Fool is great in this situation, its new beginnings and a new start! starting a whole new journey. There is something
of a spontaneity about it so it might be someone who is going around the world travelling. It's courageous to take that trip,
you don't know what is going to happen! But the people I have known who had done it have had the most life changing
experience. It's a journey like that.
The Fool can be a little naive though or "foolish" and that is the negative. The positive is they live for today, they don't
care about laying down plans for the future! living truly for the moment
Thankyou for that, i can resonate very much with what you say!
The naive and foolish bit is something i have experienced since making my choice i have to admit.. but i want so much
to feel optimistic that maybe the positives of The Fool may not have manifested themselves yet? and perhaps i should
stop worrying, be strongminded and think positive and let this card do the rest!
I saw somewhere online that The Fool is a great card to meditate on to live your life without fear and worry.
one of the positives about it is trying things. Often we limit ourselves so much and so you might try lots of new things!
pretty brave! if you are trying lots of new things, you're really getting yourself out there and experiencing life and
expanding your horizons!
see what happens more things may be coming up
For me the Fool is a wonderful outcome card. A fools options are limitless, an experts options are limited. The fool is
open to all that is in front of him, will take it as it comes, is fluid not ridged. There is nothing to hold you back.
The would see the Fool in the outcome position as someone who has ultimately been set free from their limitations. This
could include the dissolution of old circumstances that are no longer helpful, personal inhibitions or negative thinking
that made them feel like they couldn't do it.
Although the Fool is unrealistic at times, he is also one who absolutely believes in his own power without limitations. He
hasn't yet learned to be limited by things like negative thinking or realism. As an outcome I would say it shows someone
who's completely wrapped up one cycle and is embarking on another free of such limitations and with once again, that
blind sense of empowerment in their own abilities. This isn't a negative thing as without this kind of inner belief in what
you can achieve you have no chance of achieving anything at all.
You are now free, to start again.
***The Fool's journey is full of trials and tribulations, its a new path of learning, its a journey into the unknown and at
times the unexpected but if you stay as optimist as the Fool you will get to where you want to go.
Think of Marco Polo, a guy who went to China and back, following a dream, being optimist but at times being very naive
but it worked for him. So, the Fool says that you must have no fear if you want to succeed in your chosen journey, because
fear is so very limiting. Success goes to the brave and the "foolhardy".
The would see the Fool in the outcome position as someone who has ultimately been set free from their limitations. This
could include the dissolution of old circumstances that are no longer helpful, personal inhibitions or negative thinking
that made them feel like they couldn't do it.
Yes! It is making sense to me now, that is how i felt 2 years ago, i was sure i couldnt do it, i knew i had to move away
from that chapter in my life but it was so hard to shake off the negativity surrounding me at that time...but i did it and i
couldnt have made that move without some wonderful encouragement and insights to my original spread from the
wonderful, knowledgable people in this community here... You are so right, i am free, thankyou for your insights!
For me the Fool is a wonderful outcome card. A fools options are limitless, an experts options are limited. The fool is
open to all that is in front of him, will take it as it comes, is fluid not ridged. There is nothing to hold you back.
Thanks so much, i understand what your saying so clearly.. A Fools options are limitless and there is nothing to hold me
back.. Last night i drew a single card asking what i needed to do to be more positive going forward on this journey.. i got
the six of pentacles, i pondered over it a few minutes and came to the conclusion that, i can have success, reward and
fulfilment, financially and/or emotionally, if i work hard to gain self-belief and confidence in myself, that is one of the
meanings i associate with this card and it seems appropriate at this time.
Thankyou Willowfox!
Everything you say makes perfect sense, admittingly i have had some distasters happen to me during this journey, i have
met people who have taken advantage of my naivety, whilst i thought they were new friends, they were not and i lost a
fair bit of money, that was a year ago and really knocked my confidence, so your right my journey has been full of trials
and tribulations, 2 years in and im still journeying into the unknown, bit scary as i was hoping to have found the happiness
i want and the end of the path by now! Lol, looks like ive still got a fair distance to travel, but as you say i need to stay
optimistic.
Thankyou for your insight, once again.. because you gave me feedback when i first posted my orginal spread, that was 2
years ago, i wouldnt expect you to remember as it was so long ago! You was spot on then and im certain your spot on
now!
Yes ive been foolish, been so angry with myself about it, which has lead to negative thoughts taking over and making me
feel maybe i took the wrong path, i suppose ive been feeling abit sorry for myself too, lol, well not anymore everyone's
comments have been just what i needed..im feeling alot more positive as i move forward again!
Thanks danieljuk, people have said to me my choice was a brave one, i didnt see it like that to be honest.. and i have tried
new things, some have been good, some not so, but its all new experiences isnt it, i just need to relax and go with the
flow.. thanks again

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