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 N AT U R E S PI R I T
TAROT

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For Review Only
NATU RE S PI RIT
TAROT
A 78-Card Deck & Book
for the Journey of the Soul

For Review Only

ILLUSTRATED AND WRITTEN BY

Jean Marie Herzel

Bear & Company

Rochester, Vermont
Bear & Company
One Park Street
Rochester, VT 05767
www.BearandCompanyBooks.com

For Review Only

Bear & Company is a division of Inner Traditions International

Text and artwork copyright © 2014, 2021 by Jean Marie Herzel

Originally published in 2014 by Jean Marie Herzel under the title Nature Spirit
Tarot: Encounters with Nature and the Journey of the Soul

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in

any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission
in writing from the publisher.

ISBN 978-1-59143-399-6

Printed and bound in XXXXX

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Text design and layout by Priscilla Baker

This book was typeset in Garamond Premier Pro with Tricks, Drugs, and Altast
Greeting used as display typefaces

To send correspondence to the author of this book, mail a first-class letter to the
author c/o Inner Traditions • Bear & Company, One Park Street, Rochester, VT
05767, and we will forward the communication, or contact the author directly at
www.naturespirittarot.com.
 A Blessing
May the Nature Spirits speak to you
On the breath of the Winds,
From the body of the Earth,
Through the rays of the Sun,

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And in whispers from the stillness of Deep Waters.
•
May the Wisdom Keepers at the Gateway known as Tarot
Grant you safe passage into
The Transcendent Land of Illumination
That exists within.
—Jean Marie Herzel
For Review Only
 Contents
Introduction 00

MAJOR ARCANA

The Fool  00
The Magician  00
For The
Review Only
High Priestess  00
The Empress  00
The Emperor  00
The Hierophant  00
The Lovers  00
The Chariot  00
Strength 00
The Hermit  00
Wheel of Fortune  00
Justice 00
The Hanged Man  00
Death 00
Temperance 00
The Devil  00
 The Tower  00
The Star  00
The Moon 00
The Sun  00
Judgment 00
The World  00

MINOR ARCANA

The Cups  00
The Wands  00
The Swords  00
For Review
The Pentacles  00Only

CLASSIC TAROT CARD SPREADS

Introduction 00
One Card Draw  00
Three Card Spread  00
Horseshoe Spread or the Seven Card Spread  00
Celtic Cross Spread or the Ten Card Spread  00
 Introduction

T he Nature Spirit Tarot deepens our connection to the natu-

ral world and, at the same time, inspires us in our quest to
develop personal awareness. As we go about our busy lives,
nature’s beauty and mystery remain unnoticed by many of us. Sadly
we often live in places somewhat removed from the natural world. To
bring us back to nature, I created this deck using the language of flow-
ers and the symbolic meanings of birds, insects, and reptiles, as well as
some gemstones. The symbolism is derived from various traditions of
the world, including Native American, Celtic, and Eastern and Western
philosophy.
The Nature Spirit Tarot has been many years in the making. During
its creation, people asked me to share the deck when it was finished.
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And so, in the spirit of completing that which has begun, here it is,
now in print. The idea to embark upon such a large project arose many
years ago. I felt an inner desire to explore the tarot intensely and began
delving into its meanings. The enduring quality of the tarot and the
power that lives in it was very intriguing. It seemed to me it was a liv-
ing legacy­—a message of the journey into consciousness left behind by
those who traveled this road before us. This is how the project began.
Immediately I learned that tarot is a timeless tool. It enables us to
explore the depths of our psyche and our conscious awareness. It has
been with humanity for many centuries. I was pleased to learn that it is
now enjoyed everywhere in its deeper interpretations. People realize that
the tarot contains keys to the depths of our intellect, our emotions, our
physicality, and our spirit. The tarot reveals its message in layers, and
the depth to which we explore it is limited only by our own motivation
to do so. Because the tarot is so adaptive to the querent and there are
already so many layers of meaning in the upright interpretations of the
cards, I have not included any reversed meanings in the descriptions.
Many people wanted to know about the flora and fauna that

1
2   Introduction

appear in the Nature Spirit Tarot. This companion book is a guide to

facts and symbolic meanings for those who wish to explore the natu-
ral world more intimately. Much of the text is an interpretation of the
cards through the symbolism of nature. I hope this approach will be
inspiring, refreshing, and an important aspect of your own journey of
self-discovery.
There are wonderful books and resources available for interpreting
the meanings of the cards. Using many sources will enrich your under-
standing of this treasured tool. Hopefully my work will inspire you to
keep exploring and learning more.
My greatest wish is that as you use these cards, you will enjoy the
colorful imagery, learn something special about nature, and deepen your
own personal path. May this adventure bring you closer to the realiza-
tion of the Oneness of all life on this magnificent planet.

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 MAJOR

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ARCANA
 The Fool
The Fool represents the descent from spirit into
matter. Its message exists as the number zero, or
nothingness, and represents the unknown life
force from which all things emerge and to which
they return. The life force has no beginning and
no ending, just like the zero, in the form of a
circle. The Fool represents the alpha and the
omega—or the eternity of life that exists with-
out past or future. Many people interpret this
card as the first card of the Major Arcana, while
others interpret it as the last.
Springing forth into manifestation from spirit, the Fool takes the
first step of a journey. The Fool is not yet grounded in earthly experi-
ence and exists joyfully and innocently, because the energy is unbound
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by human experience. The Fool represents limitless and free-spirited
energy, emerging from the soaring heights of the creative universe and
plunging into the realms of the personality and physical manifestation.
The Fool delves into life impetuously, energetically, and fearlessly.

Marvellous Spatuletail Hummingbird

(Loddigesia mirabilis)
The Marvellous Spatuletail Hummingbird is native to just one small,
isolated forest region in Peru. This hummingbird is highly endangered
due to loss of habitat. But conservation measures have been taken to
create and manage a wildlife conservation area just for the preservation
of this unique bird. They are so named because the male of the species
has two long tail feathers that end in violet discs called spatules. He can
move them independently in a fascinating, almost comical display to
attract a mate. It is hard to believe he can fly and navigate with such an
unwieldy tail, but he does, with speed and style.
Hummingbirds have a persona all their own, and they have fly-
ing abilities well beyond all other airborne creatures. They are pure

4
 The Fool    5

energy, without any apparent awareness of earthly affairs. Their wings

beat at such great speed that they do not just fly—they vibrate. They
can maneuver in any direction and even fly upside down. Some say
they are in tune with celestial music and dance to its ethereal call.
Hummingbirds are symbolic of pure joy, the wonder and love of life,
and the act of always journeying with great daring. They are impetuous,
bold, and fearless. Hummingbirds fill our world with magic.

Heliconia ‘Garden of Eden’

(Heliconia orthotricha)
Common names for the many species of heliconia include Wild Plantain,
Lobster Claw, Parrot Flower, and False Bird-of-Paradise. Most of these
names are derived from this plant’s unusual appearance. Heliconia is
native to the tropical regions of the Americas and the islands of the
Pacific Ocean. It thrives in tropical rainforests and flowers during the
wet season. It is an important food source to many species and is a
favorite source of nectar for the hummingbird. Symbolically heliconia
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represents inspiration, intuition, and divine guidance.
 The Magician
The Magician is a conscious instrument of
the life force. The uplifted wing channels the
energy from the heavens, and the wing pointed
downward brings that energy into manifesta-
tion. The Magician is the keeper of heavenly
power. A highly developed mind and great pow-
ers of concentration give the Magician perfect
control of the four elements and any situation
in the earthly realm. In the foreground of the
card, four tools rest atop the mushroom, repre-
senting mastery of the elemental forces.
The Magician understands the sacred wisdom that is eternal.
Through inner guidance and with great mental power and integrity, the
Magician channels the Divine. The dynamic energy presented by the
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Magician enables us to raise our motivations to serve a higher purpose
and focus our will toward harmony and grace. The Magician also exem-
plifies the higher path, encouraging us to deepen our sacred connection so
that we may be of service to the world. The Magician reminds us that we
have many latent skills and abilities just waiting to unfold from within.

Merlin Falcon
(Falco columbarius)
The Merlin Falcon is native to the northern continents encircling the
planet. It is a small falcon with powerful flying abilities. The Merlin
has been raised for falconry since the Middle Ages, prized for its great
speed and agility. It is rare to see this falcon in nature because it is fast,
silent, and discreet. But it is seen occasionally in habitats that include
open forests, grasslands, and coastlines.
The Merlin moves swiftly, with exact precision and control. The
falcon is symbolic of insight, clear vision, and unity with higher powers.
The Merlin explores its world with mental clarity and a special ability to
move between the seen and unseen worlds. This bird of action inspires

6
 The Magician    7

us to hone our mental powers and understand our minds as creative

tools to channel the divine forces.

Fly Agaric or Fly Amanita Mushroom

(Amanita muscaria)
Mushrooms are considered symbols of good fortune and longevity. But
this is no ordinary mushroom. Fly Agaric Mushrooms was considered
a sacred tool by ancient shamans and may be one of the oldest halluci-
nogenic ceremonial tools known to humanity. Used in sacred rituals, it
allowed healers to expand their minds and perceive deep mysteries for
the improved welfare of individuals as well as the entire tribe.

Western Sword Fern

(Polystichum munitum)
The Western Sword Fern inhabits deep conifer forests of western
North America. To thrive, it requires moist stream banks and shady
nooks where conditions are always damp and cool. The fern is a symbol
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of prophetic dreaming, magical powers, and riches. It also represents
confidence, protection, dignity, and peace. The spiraling, unfurling
fronds of the fern, like all spirals, suggest the sacred spiral of life with
its complexities and infinite possibilities.

Eastern Pondhawk Dragonfly

(Erythemis simplicicollis)
The Eastern Pondhawk Dragonfly dwells primarily around quiet ponds
and boggy marshes. It is native to the eastern regions of North America.
The iridescent wings of the dragonfly refract light and emanate mul-
tiple colors, associating it with the power of light, magic, and mysticism.
In this card, the wings of the dragonfly form an infinity symbol. This
represents eternality, unlimited possibilities, strength, and dominion
over the world of manifested form. The dragonfly reminds us to let go
of illusion, awaken to our inner vision, and gain power through our
deepest aspirations.
 The High Priestess
The mysterious High Priestess is the spiritual
fountainhead of the divine feminine. She is not
of this earth, but she is the eternal keeper of all
the deeply-held secrets of planetary knowledge
and wisdom. She dispenses this wisdom with
great discrimination. Only the High Priestess
decides when and who will tap into the cosmic
knowledge and forces she oversees. She dwells at
the portal of this world, between the two pillars
of light and darkness, and she understands the
creative architecture of polarity.
The High Priestess wears the crown of immortality, the Blue Lotus.
She holds the flower of life, a geometric pattern that depicts the under-
lying form of space and time. The flower of life is believed to contain
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the vast records of the collective consciousness of the planet. The moon
appears above her head and below her feet. The High Priestess flows
with lunar forces that are cyclical, intuitive, fertile, and hidden. She
beckons us to be aware of the cycles and patterns in our lives, listen to
our inner callings, and take time for reflection so that we may be vessels
for the flow of the divine energies into the world.

Snowy Owl
(Nyctea scandiaca)
The Snowy Owl is a bird of the north. It breeds in the Arctic tundra
across North America and Eurasia, where it inhabits open prairies and
coastal shores. This bird is highly adapted to life in the Arctic, possess-
ing a thick, luxurious, white coat of feathers. It is an exquisite member
of the mysterious, silent-winged owl family, which has long been associ-
ated with things of the spirit.
The owl is the totem of mystics and seers. An owl was the compan-
ion to the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena, and it revealed to her hid-
den truths and keen insights. The owl is a symbol of wisdom in many

8
 The High Priestess    9

cultures. In some Native American tribal myths, it dwells in the east,

which is the land of illumination. It is a silent creature, and it teaches
us the powers of silence, contemplation, discernment, and self-knowl-
edge. Connecting with the owl may teach us to understand our ability
to unfold secrets from within ourselves. The owl is attuned to femi-
nine energy and is associated with the moon and its cycles of power. It
guards the mysteries of magic, omens, and heightened senses. It reveals
to us the secret messages in our dreams.

Ponderosa Pine
(Pinus ponderosa)
The Ponderosa Pine is native to the western regions of North America.
It can grow to great heights—150 to 180 feet tall—and reach three to
four feet in diameter. The pine tree is symbolic of longevity, immortal-
ity, healing, and protection. The pine cone is the ancestor of the flower
and holds the seeds of one of the oldest plants on our planet. It has been
called the mystic seed and symbolizes illumination and visionary pow-
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ers. The pine cone is also a symbol of fertility and immortality.

Blue Lotus
(Nymphaea caerulea)
The Blue Lotus was known as the Sacred Blue Lily to the ancient
Egyptians. It may be native to Egypt, but now it inhabits India and
other regions of Asia as well. It is prized for its intoxicating, heavenly
fragrance. The lotus is a symbol of creation, purity, birth and rebirth,
and enlightenment. Its long stems, which reach into the watery depths,
symbolize the connection to our origins.

Tulips ‘Queen of the Night’

and ‘White Dream’
(Tulipa)
The tulips, representing the pillars in this card, are ‘Queen of the
Night,’ a distinctive black tulip, and ‘White Dream,’ a lustrous white
tulip. Tulips symbolize love, perfection, and enchantment.
 The Empress
The Empress is the Great Mother, the matri-
arch of the feminine forces that bring all
things into form. She rules the eternal stream
of life with love, beauty, and from the depths
of creation. She dwells in the realm that exists
behind all that is manifest in the physical
world. Her kingdom is the natural world, and
she is surrounded by birth, growth, fertility,
and renewal. We see her face in the plants,
birds, fish, ­a nimals—the infinite array of life-
forms on our planet.
As the doorway to all life, the Empress beckons us to treat nature
with great respect. She encourages us to seed the planet with positive
thoughts and activities by creating from the heart. She invites us to
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nurture our imaginations so that we may create the world we envision.
We will be richly rewarded, with abundance and wellbeing, from the
generous and giving heart of the Mother.

Indian Peafowl, white color

(Pavo cristatus)
The Indian Peafowl is native to South Asia, and it is still prevalent in
the wild. It is the national bird of India, where it is considered sacred.
This striking bird has also been domesticated all over the world. Peafowl
are ground-dwelling birds that live in open forests. The female is called
the peahen and the male is a peacock. The white color is a mutation
that has been developed through selective breeding.
Peafowl are symbolic of beauty, dignity, and wise vision. In many
Asian traditions they are symbols of love, compassion, nurturing, and
a kind heart. In Christianity, they represent renewal and immortality.
Other symbolic meanings of this bird include the arrival of spring, new
growth, birth, royalty, and longevity. The Empress’ plumage is made up
of twelve gold stars, like the twelve planets and twelve months of the

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 The Empress    11

year, symbolizing her dominion over the cycles of the natural world and
connection to the heavenly Divine.

White Willow
(Salix alba)
The White Willow is also known as Common Willow and European
Willow. The great willow family has over 300 members, which range
across northern temperate regions of the world. The willow has power-
ful, dense roots and the ability to quickly grow into massive thickets.
It is known as a tree of the water, and it is often planted along river-
banks to hold the shoreline in place. The willow surrounds the Empress
in this card, and its relationship with water has led to its association
with the energy of the moon, intuition, and feminine protection. Other
symbolic meanings of this tree include eloquence, love, healing, and the
ability to grant wishes.

Bread Wheat

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(Triticum aestivum)
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Wheat has been grown as a food source throughout recorded history, and
it is currently one of the most widely grown grains in the world. The
Empress stands on her nest of wheat, which symbolically represents good
harvest, fertility, love, nourishment, and all things that enrich our lives.

Giant Onion
(Allium giganteum)
Allium is the genus of plants that includes onions, chives, and garlic.
Additionally, many species are grown as ornamentals, including the
flowering Giant Onion. It is a striking violet to deep purple color and
can grow four to six feet in height. The Empress holds a scepter of Giant
Onion, which symbolizes patience, humility, unity, and good fortune.

Western Wild Ginger

(Asarum caudatum)
The Western Wild Ginger is native to North America and thrives in
shady moist forests where the soil is rich. Its distinctive large heart-shaped
12    Major Arcana

leaves conceal small reddish-brown blossoms that hug the ground. As

the shield of the Empress, it symbolizes love, success, strength, fertility,
and wisdom. The heart chakra symbol, representing this energy center,
appears on the shield. It symbolizes manifesting through the heart with
love, empathy, and devotion.

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 The Emperor
The Emperor is the crowned figure of mas-
culine authority. He is the mighty chief
who brings stability and maintains the
fundamental laws of nature. He rules the
expanses of the earthly kingdom and estab-
lishes cosmic order through his solar domin-
ion. The dynamic Emperor is a character
of action and strategy. He understands the
laws of science and reason and the power of
manifestation in the world of matter.
The Emperor is a ruler from the ancient days, a wise and kind
character of experience, and the authority on universal law. The
Emperor carries forward the old traditions. He is the master of his
mental powers, and he is a source of vast knowledge. Acting with
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strength, determination, responsibility, and confidence, this ruler leads
the way for us to understand the deepest realities that we hold within
our being. The Emperor teaches us about the experience of bringing
this awareness into manifestation.

Indian Peafowl
(Pavo cristatus)
The Indian Peafowl is also called the Blue Peafowl. When the peacock dis-
plays its iridescent blue and green tail plumage, it is a magnificent sight. The
bird is striking in all ways, with multicolored hues of blue, green, black, and
white and a tail pattern referred to as “eyes.” When in full display, it is no
wonder the peacock is a symbol of dynamic, masculine authority.
The peacock represents confidence, pride, dignity, and endurance.
It is also considered a symbol of great wisdom and is deemed a sacred
bird in India. Other symbolic meanings of this royal bird include
kindness and compassion, strength and wholeness of character, the
understanding of structure and balance, and the ability to manifest
spiritual abundance.

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14    Major Arcana

Ram’s Head Lady’s Slipper Orchid

(Cypripedium arietinum)
The Ram’s Head Lady’s Slipper is a rare orchid, native to shady wetlands
of eastern North America. It is considered extremely endangered and
should never be removed from its natural habitat. This orchid is almost
impossible to cultivate and does not survive transplanting from the wild.
The orchid is a symbol of masculinity, strength, determination,
action, maturity, and sexuality. The word orchid comes from the
Greek, orchis, meaning “testicle.” Symbolically these prized flowers also
represent wealth and stature, wisdom and long life, as well as love and
protection.

Orb and Scepter

The orb and scepter are the Emperor’s tools of sovereignty. The red
snake climbing the scepter symbolizes sexual potency, creative power,
and fertility. At the top of the scepter is the Egyptian cross, known
as the ankh. It is an ancient symbol of the masculine life force. The
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Emperor also holds the orb, which represents the feminine. The turtle
within the orb is an earth symbol representing the goddess energy. The
Emperor holds both the orb and scepter because he understands how to
balance and unify the two aspects.

Topaz
Topaz is a gemstone that naturally occurs in crystalline form. It is found
in many regions throughout the world, but most abundantly in Brazil.
The name topaz comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “fire.” It is
commonly gold, orange, or yellow in color, and symbolically it is linked
to solar energy. Topaz represents expansiveness and great strength from
within. It is also believed to be a stone that transmits light to others
and, in this way, helps to develop the spiritual potential of humanity.
 The Hierophant
The Hierophant is the great teacher. In the
world, he is the authority who teaches the
knowledge, traditions, ceremonies, and dogma
of the great religions. He may be a church
leader or an important religious figure. He
carries the religious teachings throughout the
generations.
As the inner teacher, the Hierophant offers
us access to ancient wisdom teachings. As we
enter our own inner sanctuaries, he is there to
guide us in our explorations of the soul. Inner hearing and intuition
are our tools, endowed to us by the Hierophant. Only with a quiet,
meditative mind will we hear the voice of the mediator, the Hierophant.
Then alone will he reveal the great secrets of the ancient teachings and
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guide us to higher levels of experience.

Northern Cardinal
(Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal ranges throughout eastern and central North
America and south into Central America. It is a songbird that inhab-
its the fringes of forests and thickets along streams, swamps, and gar-
dens. The striking red color of this bird led to its name, which refers
to the red robes of the cardinals of the Catholic Church. This bird’s
vibrant color also symbolizes energy, vitality, and discovering our inner
potential.
The cardinal is symbolic of the power of spiritual transforma-
tion and awakening. Its distinctive song aids us in our quest to find
our own voice, speak our truth, and awaken our personal life force.
Symbolically the cardinal heightens our inner perceptions and helps
to reveal the personal song that abides within each of us and is ours
to sing in life.

15
16    Major Arcana

Wild Prairie Rose

(Rosa woodsii)
The Wild Prairie Rose grows as a shrub, forming dense thickets. It is
native to the western and central regions of North America. The mature
red bulbs, which contain the seeds of the rose, are known as rose hips.
Throughout time they have been prized by herbalists for their power-
ful nutritional value and healing properties. The red rose symbolizes
earthly passion, joy, harmony, and love.

Western White Trillium

(Trillium ovatum)
The Western White Trillium, also called Wake Robin, blooms in early
spring. Trillium grows in shaded forests with rich soil across the west-
ern regions of North America. Trillium literally means “three-parted
lily” because it has three petals. It is associated with the Holy Trinity,
the three aspects of God. It also represents divine love, purified mental
aspirations, and divine intellect. The lily is symbolic of purity, beauty,
and healing.For Review Only
Triple Cross
The Hierophant holds the triple cross, which is the staff of religious
authority. His triple cross is comprised of double-terminated quartz
crystals and is adorned with white feathers. Double-terminated crys-
tals emanate energy from both ends. The movement of the energy in
this symmetrical pattern has led to the double-terminated crystal being
described as self-complete. Such crystals are commonly used to enhance
psychic ability, as well as bring clarity in dreams and meditation. The
white feathers symbolize spirituality and self-purification.
Amethyst, topaz, and emerald stones are at the convergences of the
cross. These stones relate to energy centers of the body. Amethyst is a
stone of the crown chakra and aids in transforming the normal waking
state into higher awareness. Topaz represents the throat chakra and
enhances our conscious connection with divine wisdom. The emerald
is placed at the heart center. It is revered as a sacred stone, and its most
important aspect is the vibration of love.
 The Hierophant    17

Keys
Keys are at the feet of the Hierophant, who guards the gateway to
heaven and earth. The golden key represents the solar forces or the con-
scious mind. The silver key represents the lunar forces or the uncon-
scious mind. As keeper of the keys, the Hierophant is known as the
living link between divinity and humanity.

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 The Lovers
If we interpret the Lovers from the obvious
perspective, it is about love, marriage, sexual-
ity, companionship, and all the aspects of a
relationship between two individuals. A loving
relationship involves much growth and personal
development. This is important work with great
merit. The Lovers are recognized as two comple-
mentary souls coming together. Now let us look
more deeply into the nature of duality and unity.
Here we have a picture of two opposing
aspects uniting, emerging from duality into oneness. Duality exists within
us, as well as around us, because we are spiritual beings that inhabit a
physical form. We live in a world of opposites. These opposites have many
names: yin and yang, male and female, positive and negative, active and
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passive, conscious and unconscious, light and dark. By balancing these
polar forces within ourselves, we are striving to awaken a new level of expe-
rience beyond the physical. In its deeper sense, the Lovers represents the
exploration of our internal landscape in the quest for unity with the divine
reality of our inner being.

Red-sided Garter Snake

(Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis)
and Blue-striped Garter Snake
(Thamnophis sirtalis similis)
Garter snakes are the most widely distributed reptiles in North
America. They are often found near water in marshes, meadows, wet
woodlands, farms, and gardens. They have many color variations,
with distinctive patterns of spots or stripes. Garter snakes are docile
snakes, only acting aggressively when provoked. They are not harm-
ful to humans and are often encountered in gardens, where they help
with the control of pests.
In the Lovers, the Blue-striped Garter Snake represents the femi-

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 The Lovers    19

nine aspect and the energies of Water and Earth. The Red-sided
Garter Snake represents the masculine aspect and the energies of
Fire and Air. Entwined together, they represent unification of the
life energies, creation, fertility, and transformation. In Eastern phi-
losophy, snakes represent the awakened life force. Throughout his-
tory, most cultures have considered the snake as a symbol of inner
power and sexuality. Because snakes shed their skin, they are also sym-
bolic of the death of the old and birth into a new awareness of power
and wisdom.

Chinese Wisteria
(Wisteria sinensis)
Chinese Wisteria is a flowering vine native to China. It is now the
most widely grown wisteria species worldwide. Chinese Wisteria pro-
duces a profusion of fragrant, lavender flowers that drape from spi-
raling woody stems. It is a long-lived plant, known to survive one
hundred years or more. It is, therefore, revered as a symbol of longev-
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ity and immortality.
Wisteria is also symbolic of love, expansion, beauty, honor, and
respect. The spiraling pattern of its growth symbolizes the unfolding
of consciousness and reaching out to the Divine. Often forming great
canopies of draping flowers, wisteria creates a serene and peaceful atmo-
sphere. In the East, the space beneath a wisteria canopy is considered a
sanctuary and a place of meditation. Here people gather to honor the
sacredness of life.

The Thousand Petal Lotus

The Thousand Petal Lotus is a pictorial symbol of the crown chakra,
the spiritual energy center located at the top of the head. When this
center is opened, it is the channel for divine forces to flow into the
physical being. A balanced crown chakra is a source of wisdom, oneness,
mastery, and unification with divinity.
 The Chariot
The Chariot represents the dwelling place of
consciousness. Through the vehicle of the char-
iot, the soul controls and balances all the forces
of mind and matter. The driver does not hold
reins because the chariot is directed by the will,
which is the master of the mind. The chariot
is our instrument to navigate through earthly
experience. When this life is finished, we will
take up another chariot to continue the unfold-
ing of our higher self through experience.
For now, the Chariot encourages us to master our mental skills,
navigate our karmic challenges, balance our emotions, and drive for-
ward to reveal our destiny. The Chariot is the call of the warrior, mov-
ing us to the recognition of our inner potential for accomplishment.
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Through focus and meditation, and with the skill and determination
of the warrior, our goals are within reach. As we travel through time
and the cycles of life, unseen forces are at work to guide us. Let us be
the vehicle for spirituality to enter the world, take form, and in the
process discover the power of individuality.

Belted Kingfisher
(Ceryle alcyon)
The Belted Kingfisher is the only kingfisher species that ranges
throughout all of North America. It is a bird of the water. The
kingfisher makes its home near lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, and
in coastal saltwater estuaries. It chooses locations with steep banks
where it can excavate tunnel-like nests into the earth.
This solitary bird is most often seen perching with a clear view of
water for spotting fish. Once it spots a fish, it hovers briefly above the
surface and then dives vertically into the water, breaking its fall with
outspread wings. For this reason, the kingfisher is a symbol of plung-
ing into the unknown with confidence and fearlessness. The powerful

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 The Chariot    21

kingfisher also represents great control, focus, agility, speed, abundance,

prosperity, and balance. When heard in the wild, the kingfisher’s bois-
terous cry brings to mind the courage of the warrior.

American Alligator
(Alligator mississippiensis)
The American Alligator is the largest reptile in North America. It inhab-
its marshes, ponds, lakes, swamps, and bayous of the southeastern United
States. Most alligators are olive, black, or gray in color. Albino alligators,
which lack pigmentation, are extremely rare in the wild but do exist.
The alligator has lived on the earth for millions of years. For this
reason, it is a symbol of ancient wisdom. The alligator is also symbolic
of those most primal forces which we must harness, stabilize, and bring
under our control. The white and black alligators represent duality, and
our challenge of personal integration and self-mastery, as these forces
propel our chariot through this earthly experience.

For White
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Cypress Vine
(Ipomoea quamoclit)
The popular name for the White Cypress Vine is Star Glory. It is native
to tropical regions of South America and was brought to the gardens of
North America in the 1800s. Although it looks quite unlike its rela-
tives, this annual climbing vine is a member of the morning glory fam-
ily. White Cypress is covered in cascades of starry, five-pointed, white
flowers, which symbolize the celestial energies that guide the Chariot.

Gladiolus ‘Nova Lux’

(Gladiolus)
Gladiolus ‘Nova Lux’ is a beautiful golden yellow color. The charioteer
holds the gladiolus, symbolizing strength of character, moral integrity,
physical strength, and preparedness. The name comes from the Latin,
gladius, which means “sword,” because gladiolus leaves are shaped like
swords. This flower was the symbol of the Roman gladiator.
 Strength
It is easy to recognize Strength as a physi-
cal quality. Now let us explore more deeply
the message of Strength as an inner, spiritual
dominion. Strength reveals a quiet, confident,
and perceptive way to meet opposing forces,
whether they are arising from some external
situation or coming from defeating aspects of
the personality. When confronted by any over-
powering force, Strength counsels us to gather
our inner, spiritual fortitude. To tame the wild
and powerful beast, go within and meet it with inner strength.
It is our challenge to grow and nurture this inner quality and deal
with others and ourselves through love, encouragement, patience, and
understanding. When we maintain a high authority of peace and inner
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calm, we allow the invincible spiritual nature of our being to come into
action. This is the message of Strength.

Hercules Beetle
(Dynastes hercules ecuatorianus)
The Hercules Beetle is the most famous and largest member of the
rhinoceros beetle subfamily of scarab beetles. It is indeed a fierce and
formidable creature. During battle, this beetle will pick up its enemy
with its horns, fly upward into the air, and slam the foe down on
the ground, usually breaking the enemy’s head. The Hercules Beetle
can carry 850 times its own body weight, making it the strongest
creature on earth for its size. The raw power and courage of this
beetle make it an excellent representation of physical strength.
Beetles, in general, are symbolic of transformation and metamor-
phosis. They represent devotion to self-discovery and the ability to trust
life as a process. The beetle reminds us to allow our spirit to prosper so
that our inner strength and hidden abilities might shine through.

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 Strength    23

White Ermine Moth

(Spilosoma lubricipeda)
The White Ermine Moth is widely distributed in the Northern
Hemisphere. It is seen in flight from May to July and can be found in
urban and rural habitats. Its name comes from the luxuriously fluffy,
white-feathered thorax, which resembles the winter coat of the ermine.
Symbolically the moth is related to strong psychic and healing gifts.
It has its hearing organs in its legs, and it keenly perceives its environ-
ment by using its sense of hearing as well as by sensing vibrations. Its
feathery antennae are highly sensitive to temperature. Because of these
special abilities, the moth is a symbol of clear perception.
The moth teaches us to go within and achieve stillness. When we
achieve an inner quietness and engage our listening ear, we are allow-
ing our being to find its own clarity and strength. As with the moth,
we will then have the fortitude to meet the intimidating, overpowering
beetle. Here we have a new strategy to deal with any difficult challenges
we currently face.
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The Herb Garden
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Many of nature’s healers are found in the herb garden. Using herbs
medicinally and for culinary purposes dates back further than recorded
history. Throughout the ages our relationship with these healers has
flourished. Herbs have also been attributed with many mythical and
magical properties. Our connection to these plants has been kept alive
by the many who have gone before us. This connection is now being
rediscovered and embraced, even in this modern age.
Because of this important therapeutic relationship, most herbs
symbolically represent strength, courage, comfort, and balance. The
herbs appearing from top left and listed counterclockwise are Fennel
(Foeniculum vulgare), Borage (Borago officinalis), Creeping Thyme
(Thymus praecox), and Ginger (Zingiber officinalis).
 The Hermit
The solitary figure known as the Hermit travels
a path that leads to separation from the world.
The Hermit travels alone, a decision that was
made by choice. The Hermit knows much of
the world—its pains and pleasures, and its
distractions and allure. The Hermit has chosen
to leave these forms of worldly entrapment
behind. Free of ego and distinctly advanced on
the journey of the soul, this keeper of spiritual
wisdom travels onward, seeking more Light
and even greater knowledge. The Hermit is a luminary, and the shining
lantern is a beacon. It shines to illuminate the path that continues
further and serves as a guiding light for others.
We too can follow this path, but few seem to do so. Leaving the world
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to pursue the callings, trials, and joys of the spirit is not for everyone. But
as we journey through life we can always make time for quiet, medita-
tion, and reflection. During these times we will feel the presence of the
Hermit, who will be there to guide us. This solitary figure who lights the
way is always available as an inner guide, illuminating the higher path and
keeping the eternal torch of wisdom burning.

Hermit Thrush
(Catharus guttatus)
The Hermit Thrush is fairly common in mixed woodlands and thickets,
but it is seldom seen because its brownish gray color blends perfectly into
its surroundings. It is a solitary and elusive bird that ranges throughout
North America. The shy, reclusive lifestyle of the Hermit Thrush, which
befits its name, makes it an excellent symbol of the Hermit.
The Hermit Thrush has a complex, ethereal song that filters
through the forests but is noticed by few, perhaps because the bird’s
nature seems to keep it hidden. In Celtic lore, it is believed that the
song of the thrush inspires us to a higher cause.

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 The Hermit    25

Ginkgo Tree
(Ginkgo biloba)
The Gingko Tree is so ancient that it is called the “living fossil tree.”
Ginkgo is believed to be the most ancient tree in the known world. It is
similar in structure to fossils that date as far back as 270 million years.
It evolved long before the flowering plants. Because of its connection
to the unknowable past, ginkgo has become a symbol of changelessness
and the ability to draw wisdom from the life force that is eternal.
Gingko is a long-lived tree, with individual trees alive today that are
believed to be 2,500 years old. Trees that were planted around temples
in China and Japan as far back as the seventeenth century are still alive
today. Many trees have been documented to be 1,000 to 1,500 years of
age. Ginkgo has always been revered in Eastern religions as a symbol of
hope, peace, and eternal life. Other symbolic meanings include a pas-
sageway to higher awareness and breaking free of illusion.

Solomon’s Seal
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(Polygonatum biflorum)
Solomon’s Seal was so valued by medieval herbalists and healers that they
believed it had been touched by the hand of King Solomon and given his
seal. To this day it is valued as a medicinal herb. This species is native to
North America, and other members of this genus are found worldwide.
Symbolically Solomon’s Seal refers to the power of light to drive
away darkness. Historically the plant was used as spiritual protection
and to consecrate holy sites. The shining six-pointed star, also known
as Solomon’s Seal, represents wisdom. It is a symbol of inextinguishable
light, a light that no worldly power can diminish.
 Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune turns with the cycles of
the universe. Life flows in a perpetual rhythm.
We observe this in the movement of the moon,
the oceans, the seasons, the planets, time, and
in the passage from birth to death. Cycles
beyond our vision include the movement of the
stars, solar systems, and galaxies. The Wheel
extends into cycles far beyond our imagination.
From a personal perspective, the Wheel of
Fortune is the creative force behind our inner
cycles of experience. Upon the Wheel, our lives turn, and we are bound
to the past. It spins the wheel of karma, which is any action from our
past that must be reconciled, whether good or bad. The past shapes and
creates our present, and the present creates our future experience. Thus
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the Wheel keeps us eternally in the past, present, and future. If we are
unaware of the things we set in motion, we call the events that occur in
our lives luck, destiny, or fate. In this way our lives turn.
One manner of release from the Wheel is waking to personal
responsibility. We cannot know the complexities of life’s cycles. But,
with will and determination, we can consciously decide to align with
the greater Wheel that turns the evolving universe. We have the power
to remove ourselves from the Wheel that spins the lower cycles of
experience and take up a higher turning. This will surely lead to changes
in our personal experience. The Wheel of Fortune teaches us expansion,
advancement, and a deeper understanding of the perpetual forces of life.

Marbled Orb Weaver

(Araneus marmoreus)
The beautiful Marbled Orb Weaver is a most beneficial spider, eating
countless garden pests in its lifetime. To have this spider’s wheel-shaped
web in your garden is indeed a blessing. Symbolically the spider is the
weaver of the web of life. It shows us how the past, present, and future

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 Wheel of Fortune    27

are all interconnected. It symbolizes creativity, will, and inspiration.

The spider teaches us to focus from our center in order to better under-
stand what is manifesting around us. This master weaver shows us the
tapestry of life and how the web we weave creates our destiny.

Camellia ‘Lovelight’
(Camellia japonica)
Camellia japonica, the best-known camellia species, grows wild in Japan,
Korea, and China. At least 300 years ago, it was developed for gardens,
and it is now treasured all over the world. Most appropriately, the symbolic
meaning of camellia is “my destiny is in your hands.” Here rests the wheel.

The Four Directions of the Wheel

American Carrion Beetle (Silpha americana),
Green Mayfly (Callibaetis), Wasp (Vespula vulgaris),
Common Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus icarus)
The four directions of the Wheel represent the creative life forces. The
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carrion beetle represents Earth, the mayfly represents Water, the wasp
represents Fire, and the butterfly represents Air. These are aspects of
the evolutionary cycle turning the Wheel.

The Four Corners of the Card

Counterclockwise from bottom left: Wheat (Triticum),
Dandelion (Taraxacum), Rhododendron (Rhododendron),
and Orchid (Orchidaceae)
The four corners of the card represent the laws of the universe that are
perpetual and cannot be changed. They are depicted by totem plants of
the four fixed astrological signs. Wheat is symbolic of Taurus and the
element Earth. It represents prosperity, riches, and fertility. Dandelion is
symbolic of Leo and the element Fire, and it is considered prophetic. It
is known as “the oracle of time.” Rhododendron is symbolic of Scorpio
and the element Water. It represents caution and self-control. The
orchid is symbolic of Aquarius and the element Air, and it represents
ecstasy, beauty, and magnificence.
 Justice
Justice summons us to accountability. This
reckoning process is at the core of finding inner
balance and truthful action. Justice is the ruler
of equilibrium, reminding us that all of our
deeds and actions must be weighed against the
light of truth. At this threshold we are chal-
lenged to look deeply and honestly into our-
selves, seeking to right any imbalances in our
life. We are summoned to take responsibility
for aligning with our inner truth.
The Hall of Justice is impersonal and unprejudiced. It does not pass
judgement. The demands it sets before us are not complex. It calls upon
us to act through love and cooperation and to become acquainted with
spiritual integrity. There is no escaping Justice, and we will account for
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all, either now or at some future time and place.

THE PILLARS OF JUSTICE

Sweet Coltsfoot
(Petasites hybridus)
Sweet Coltsfoot, also called Butterbur and Bog Rhubarb, is a peren-
nial plant native to all of Europe. It was introduced to eastern North
America, where it now grows wild. It prefers shady forests and damp
conditions along river and stream banks. Sweet Coltsfoot has leaves
large enough to cover the head, which led to the Greeks naming it pet-
asos, which translates to “hat plant.” This plant has some of the largest
leaves in the plant kingdom, which can reach a diameter of three feet.
At maturity the flowers along the club-shaped stem form into dry,
feathery seed heads which disperse in the wind. In the card, the mature
plant represents the Pillars of Justice, appearing along the border and
extending beyond, suggesting the influence of the cosmic realms. Sweet
Coltsfoot is a symbol of justice and advisement. Under its watchful eye,
justice shall be done.

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 Justice    29

THE SCALE OF JUSTICE

Banded Alder Borer
(Rosalia funebris)
The Banded Alder Borer is a member of the insect family collectively
known as the longhorn beetles. Native to North America, it ranges
throughout the west. The larvae consume the wood of dead trees, but
this beetle does not harm living trees and it is not considered a pest.
The body and long antennae of the Banded Alder Borer are pat-
terned with striking black and white bands. The beetle represents the
scale, and its black and white colors symbolize polarities, or oppo-
sites, which must be equalized. All of our deeds and actions must be
brought to the scale to be examined and balanced.
The beetle is a symbol of rebirth to a new ideal and of devotion
to the ways of the spirit. Beetles also represent intuitive abilities.
Symbolically beetles illuminate the skills necessary for making right
decisions, discovering the ability to take proper action, and knowing
how to trust in life as a process. The Banded Alder Borer represents a
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higher, more balanced perspective.

THE SWORD OF JUSTICE

Black-eyed Susan
(Rudbeckia hirta)
The Black-eyed Susan is a flower native to the central plains of North
America. Over time, it has become a garden favorite. Through love and
care, it has flourished and evolved into many colors and sizes. The han-
dle of the sword is the Rudbeckia flower, which is a symbol of justice.
This is the double-edged sword of decisiveness, which assists us in dis-
criminating what is right and true.
 The Hanged Man
Having achieved an egoless state, the seemingly
upside-down Hanged Man is actually view-
ing the world from a lofty perspective. The
Hanged Man has access to a new way of being.
He is filled with contentment and knows true
peace of mind. The Hanged Man now has a
different set of values than others and perceives
the ways of the world as upside down. Through
personal sacrifice and surrender, reality has
been upended and turned on its head. Living
in a spiritual way is a complete reversal to living a material way of life.
To those who live from the viewpoint of materiality, the image of the
Hanged Man is often very disturbing. The challenge presented here is
to discover this new perspective for ourselves.
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To understand the Hanged Man more deeply, imagine the waters of
life, still and calm and as reflective as a mirror. Just as in a mirror, how-
ever, the image we see on the water’s surface is reversed. Now look more
deeply beneath the surface of the water and see how much exists below
this glassy reflection. The Hanged Man is aware of this deeper reality,
giving him an entirely different perspective. The Hanged Man taps into
an awareness of this unseen, living world. Personal authority has been
relinquished to divine inspiration, and the Hanged Man knows how to
remain suspended in the stillness, experiencing a more spiritual percep-
tion. The Hanged Man aligns with a higher state of being while living
in a material world.

Western Red-backed Salamander

(Plethodon vehiculum)
The Western Red-backed Salamander inhabits the Pacific coastal
regions of North America. It can be found beneath logs, stones, bark,
and moss. It prefers cool, shady habitats beside small streams and
springs. Symbolically the salamander is believed to lead a double life.

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 The Hanged Man    31

It is born in the water and moves onto land to dwell among rocky out-
croppings, equally at home amidst the elements of both Water and Fire.
The salamander exhibits great patience and is keenly attuned to
its environment. It teaches us how to reflect upon and observe events
around us, as wells as how to best move into action. Its patterns of move-
ment may seem odd to us, but by observing the salamander’s behavior,
we can learn something about shifting our own reality. In some Native
American mythology, salamanders are known as shapeshifters. They are
believed to shift between different realities. In this way, they discover
and reveal the secrets of unknown worlds.

Morning Glory ‘Heavenly Blue’

(Ipomoea purpurea)
The Morning Glory ‘Heavenly Blue’ is native to Mexico and Central
America and is now naturalized in warmer climates the world over. The
morning glory needs cold air and the darkness of night to bloom. In the
morning light it produces glorious trumpet flowers which last only that
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day. The flower is symbolic of a fresh awakening with each new dawn. The
morning glory also symbolizes the discovery of insight into the true self.

White Oak
(Quercus alba)
The White Oak is a long-lived, magnificent tree that is native to the
eastern regions of North America. It is a member of the oak genus,
which consists of more than 600 different species growing everywhere
on our planet. Around the world, oak trees have always been deeply
honored by humans. This tree has earned importance as a symbol of
nobility, endurance, and all that is truthful and strong. The oak is
called “the king of the forest” by many cultures. It is considered a sacred
tree and the doorway to the ethereal realms. Because of its expansive-
ness, the oak tree is believed not only to exist in this worldly dimension,
but in others as well. Its powerful heritage holds the cosmic ties that
suspend the Hanged Man.
 Death
The key meaning of Death is transformation.
Things in our lives cannot stay the same, and
something regenerative is at hand. Death repre-
sents the end of the old and the beginning of the
new. This transformation may enter our lives as
changing circumstances, the end of old attitudes
no longer serving us, a release from limitations
we are experiencing, or recognizing anything
detrimental to which we cling. We have to be
prepared to let things go, thereby embracing the
undeniable impermanence of life.
It is true—transformation can be a frightening experience. Change,
however, is an essential aspect of our evolving consciousness and neces-
sary for growth. Transformation is a doorway to fresh opportunities and
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renewal. On the card, we see the sun rising in the distance, representing
the promise of a new day dawning. Death challenges us to welcome trans-
formation. Inevitably growth experiences must be faced by us all, in life
and in death. Death closes one door and opens another.

Common Blackbird
(Turdus merula)
The Common Blackbird, also called the Eurasian Blackbird, is found
throughout Eurasia. It dwells in forests with dense undergrowth, where
food is plentiful and shelter is good. The blackbird is highly intelligent,
with a melodious song and the ability to mimic other birds.
Perhaps because of its rich black color, the blackbird has long been
a symbol of illumination and enchantment. It sits at the gateway to the
unknown, and it is the keeper of magical secrets and the mysteries of
the great void. In general, birds are spirits of the air and represent the
transcendence of the soul in its transition from life to death.

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 Death    33

European Yew Tree

(Taxus baccata)
The European Yew Tree, also known as the English Yew, is found
growing in many churchyards throughout England and continental
Europe. Most predate the oldest churches because yew trees are
extremely long-lived. The trunks become massive. As the central trunk
dies, the branches drape to the ground and grow anew. This has led to
the yew tree symbolizing transformation, death, and rebirth, as well as
passage to the land of death. The yew tree reminds us that life, with its
beginning and ending, is an illusion because life is eternal. The yew tree
represents death as a passage to a new beginning.

Rosa ‘Rambling Rector,’ white color

(Rosa)
‘Rambling Rector’ is a member of the Old Garden Rose classification.
Early rose gardens were little more than wild rambling rose varieties that
were selected and tamed for their fragrance and beauty. This is the heri-
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tage of the ‘Rambling Rector’ white rose. Roses are symbols of spiritual
love, purity, humility, simplicity, and the opening to higher consciousness.

Common Green Bottle Fly

(Lucilia sericata)
The Common Green Bottle Fly is also known as the Carrion Fly or the
Blow Fly. It lays its eggs in the decaying carcasses of dead animals. The
larvae feed and develop on the nourishment provided by the decompos-
ing tissue. Because the fly has the ability to change dead matter and waste
into a valuable asset, it is a symbol of transformation. Flies also have mul-
tifaceted vision, leading to the symbolic meaning of expanded awareness.
 Temperance
To grasp the meaning of Temperance, imag-
ine the flow of a vast river moving slowly and
serenely to a great sea beyond. Its flow is steady
and perpetual. The river sweeps into shallows
and pools into backwaters, supporting a myr-
iad of life along its journey. We too may allow
our earthly experience to flow like the river.
Temperance intimates the way to live a fully
conscious life sustained by the great cosmic
forces behind manifestation.
The word temperance comes from the Latin word temperare,
which means “to mix” or “to blend.” Temperance suggests that we
take what is at hand, the old and the new, and blend them to create
something unlike anything before. Temperance is the act of balanc-
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ing aspects in our lives, blending them back and forth, integrating
conflicts and regrets, acknowledging our gifts, and letting life flow.
When we merge into a quiet state and give up struggling against our
life experiences, we just may synthesize a new awareness that brings
beauty to life.

Great Blue Heron

(Ardea herodias)
The Great Blue Heron is the largest heron in North America. This
wading bird is always found near water, inhabiting marshes, swamps,
wet meadowlands, lakes, and coastlines. It is a solitary bird, often seen
poised and staring deeply into the water, seeking a meal of fish. Its quiet,
powerful presence represents inner stillness, balance, and self-reflection.
The heron also symbolizes a clear depth of thinking, intelligence, and
a calm reliance on inner guidance. The heron acts through the inspira-
tion of a higher intelligence.

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 Temperance    35

Cowslip
(Primula veris)
The Cowslip is native to most temperate climates of Europe and Asia. It
often grows in pastures and fallow fields. Cowslip populations declined
rapidly with the introduction of modern farming practices, but Cowslip
is now making a strong return because of its addition to seed mixes
used for wildflower gardens and highway landscaping. Much folklore
and mythology surrounds this treasured plant, and over the ages it has
become a symbol of divine beauty, healing, divinity, and discovering the
mysterious treasures of the heart.

Common Reed
(Phragmites australis)
The Common Reed is native to wetlands of temperate and tropical
regions throughout the world. It forms dense stands, known as reed
beds, which are important as wildlife habitat. The Celts believed the
reed to be symbolic of health, harmony, and growth. The reed is also a
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symbol of finding our purpose in life and of the journey inward to find
the key to healing that dwells in the depths of our inner being.

Goldfish
(Carassius auratus)
The Goldfish is a member of the carp family that was domesticated a
thousand years ago by the Chinese. When raising carp as a food source,
occasionally a golden fish emerged. It was selected out and bred with
others of its kind to produce the special golden fish for ponds and small
water features. The Goldfish is a symbol of luck and good fortune. Also,
in Buddhism, it is an auspicious symbol of overcoming obstacles. The
Goldfish does not succumb to negativity and suffering but rather swims
gracefully through obstacles. In this way the Goldfish transmutes the
flow of events into their most positive outcome.
36    Major Arcana

Fluorite
Eight-sided fluorite crystals are mostly purple or yellow. The name of
this stone is derived from the Latin word fluere, which means “to flow.”
Fluorite is symbolic of the highest aspect of the mind as it is attuned to
the spirit and of the ability to integrate inner knowledge and wisdom.

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 The Devil
If we took all the fear and delusion in the world
and blew it up into one monstrous creature, we
would have the Devil. The Devil is the sum total
of all the illusion and ignorance that exists in the
world. Humanity is enslaved by it. This igno-
rance is mesmerizing and keeps us in bondage.
It lives nowhere but in the constructions of the
mind. Nevertheless, it places a dark shadow over
the potential for true freedom—freedom of the
spirit. We may be so rooted in the mind and so
fascinated with materiality that we do not even understand the possibility
of freedom. As long as we remain enslaved by our fears and desires, we are
caught in the illusion of this material world and remain asleep. Delighted
by our ignorance, the Devil lives and thrives.
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As we may observe in the card, the ties are not binding and we
could easily escape. Why do we not slip out of the clutches of the Devil?
The ego keeps us here, devoted to life’s dramas, devouring all of our
time and energy, and leaving us in a state of darkness. If we are wise, we
will examine our lives closely and search out those aspects which chain
us to our limited awareness. By taking our power back from the Devil
or, in other words, by uprooting the ego from the mind, each of us can
awaken to the true nature of things. In this way we shall perceive the
meaning of freedom.

Spiny Devilfish
(Inimicus didactylus)
The Devilfish is native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It has many
names, all equally grotesque. Among these are Demon Stinger, Devil
Stinger, Devil Scorpionfish, Demon Goblinfish, and the Bearded Ghoul.
All bring to mind this dangerously poisonous fish with venomous spines
that hunts by night. It is a master of camouflage and can bury itself in the
sand and mud of the ocean floor. Only its spiky spines, which ­resemble

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38    Major Arcana

ocean plants, appear above the surface. Its disguise is ingenious. The
Devilfish is now cloaked. When unsuspecting small fish swim quietly by,
the Devilfish lunges and its victims are caught in its ferocious jaws.
It is interesting to compare the Devilfish, which lurks buried
beneath the surface of the mud, with aspects of our personality that
are buried beneath the surface of our minds. Here lies the ego, waiting
to capture our attention, just as the Devilfish lies in wait to capture its
prey. The Devilfish’s many names, and its devilish strategies, reflect its
symbolic meanings.

Devil’s Club
(Oplopanax horridus)
The Devil’s Club, also known as Devil’s Walking Stick, is native to
moist, shady forests of western North America. Yellow spines cover the
stems and break off easily when touched. Lodging under the skin, they
often become infected if not removed immediately. This spiny shrub has
large leaves and inedible red berries. Its scientific name comes from the
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Greek word hoplon, meaning “weapon.” It has many medicinal uses but
none for the amateur herbalist. Little symbolism is known for Devil’s
Club, but this self-defensive plant was believed to ward off evil spirits.

Seahorse
(Hippocampus)
The Seahorse inhabits tropical, temperate waters throughout the world.
It exists in a body called an exoskeleton, meaning that it has an exter-
nal bony structure protecting it. This explains the symbolic meanings
of the Seahorse, which include inflexibility, stubbornness, and extreme
self-defensiveness. These characteristics bind us to the situations we
cling to in ignorance.
The Seahorse possesses a great deal of strength, and with its tail it can
pull itself to safety. Symbolically this ability suggests strength and power.
This sea creature has the potential to pull itself free from the clutches
of the Devil. In order to do so, it must bring into action its gifts of keen
perception, spiritual vision, balanced perspective, and bravery.
 The Tower
The message of the Tower is serious business
and, to all appearances, very disturbing. It
speaks of the restructuring of the ego, a pro-
cess that is necessary so that we may become
suitable receptacles for the inspiration of divine
will. The Tower calls us to our awakening in a
most fundamental and abrupt manner.
The Tower is constructed of our accumu-
lated thoughts, emotions, and deeds. In other
words the Tower is the ego we have built. If we
have not tended to the more subtle calls for personal transformation in
our life path, events may erupt into dramatic, usually difficult, situa-
tions that force us to change. The bolts of lightning represent flashes
of insight that bring us to the necessary shift in consciousness. To the
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unenlightened mind, the Tower is very frightening. To the awakened
soul, it is an active force of liberation.

Turkey Vulture
(Cathartes aura)
The Turkey Vulture ranges throughout the American continents. It
generally dwells in dry open areas such as pastures, meadows, wood-
lands, farmlands, and deserts. The Turkey Vulture is a scavenger and
feeds on carrion. It finds food sources while in flight. Its keen senses of
sight and smell detect the gasses produced by decaying flesh that lead it
to its next meal.
The Turkey Vulture is considered to be the king of the realm of
transformation. It represents the breaking up of the crystallized per-
sonality and the transformation of the ego. Because it feeds on dead
matter and transforms it into nourishment, the Turkey Vulture symbol-
izes cleansing, purification, and efficient and joyful resolution through
the removal of unwanted energies. When we see the soaring Turkey
Vulture, change is imminent.

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40    Major Arcana

Blackthorn
(Prunus spinosa)
The Blackthorn is a thorny shrub that forms dense thickets. It is often
planted to create barrier hedges. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia
and Africa. Blackthorn is a winter plant, producing bitter, blue-black
fruit that ripens only with frost. The Celtic people called this shrub
straif, which translates to “strife.”
The Blackthorn symbolizes misfortune and those unexpected
events that often prove to be the ruin of any plans. Something is in
action that must be accepted. Blackthorn calls us to take courage, yield
to any challenges, and surrender to the experience at hand. It symbol-
izes the breaking down of the old to make way for the new. It represents
both letting go of the resistance that blocks our true path and the pro-
cess of waking up through radical change.

Dead Tree Snag

The dead tree snag represents our Tower of thoughts, deeds, and emo-
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tions that must succumb to the powerful forces of awakening. The tests
of fire and misfortune are inescapable at the threshold of the Great
Purification.
 The Star
The Star emerges from the waters of life—
shimmering, exquisite, transcendental, and
full of hope. It bathes us in rays of deep mys-
tery and higher wisdom. The Star invites us to
cast our intentions into the watery depths and
bring to the surface new guidance and restor-
ative powers. The illumination surrounding
the Star is a place of nakedness and innocence,
where we present ourselves openly and connect
with the radiating light within us. The Star is
our guide to meditation, inner blessings, and rebirth, slipping us into
the waters of serenity by encouraging the mastery of a quiet mind.
The water pouring from the pitchers comes from the source that
has no ending and no beginning. These waters contain healing and
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cleansing properties and the promise of renewal. One stream lands on
the earth and divides into five channels, representing our five senses
and the expansion of human experience. The other stream pours into
the water and represents the conscious decision of the soul to enhance
its connection with the deeper waters of life. As we mature we learn to
practice stillness in our daily lives and invite illumination.

White Tern
(Gygis alba)
The White Tern, sometimes known as the Fairy Tern, is breathtaking
in its beauty and ethereal appearance. It is snow white with striking
dark blue eyes that are surrounded by a ring of black feathers. Its long
white wings enable it to fly with a grace unlike any other seabird. The
White Tern is native to tropical islands of the world. It is noted for lay-
ing its one egg in the fork of a tree branch, making no nest. Here the
egg is incubated, and the chick spends five weeks precariously perched
without any visible means of protection.
With grace and charm, the spirit of the White Tern soars above

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42    Major Arcana

all other birds. It is symbolic of peace and transcendence. In a world

filled with complexities and contradictions, the White Tern symbol-
izes the ability to live fearlessly and with the guidance of Spirit. It is an
amazingly brave and curious bird, and it does not hesitate to approach
and hover over interesting visitors who approach it. Embodying purity
and innocence, it inspires awe in all those who are fortunate enough to
come within its presence.

White-topped Pitcher Plant

(Sarracenia leucophylla)
The White-topped Pitcher Plant is one of the most stunning of all the
carnivorous plants. It is found in bogs and wetlands where the soil is
acidic. Its intoxicating fragrance draws insects into its long spade. The
insects then become nourishment for the plant, supplementing the
nutrients it takes from the poor soil. The White-topped Pitcher Plant is
highly endangered due to dwindling habitat.
The pitcher plant is exotic and possesses an unearthly quality. Its
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watery nature and heavenly fragrance make it an excellent symbol for
entering other realms and ushering in the Divine. The Chinese consider
the pitcher plant to be a vessel for collecting good luck and fortune.

Broad-leaved Starflower
(Trientalis latifolia)
The delicate Broad-leaved Starflower also prefers watery habitats.
Sometimes known as the Western Starflower or the Pacific Starflower,
it is found in shady bogs and swamps throughout North America. It is
named the starflower because its stalk is as fine as a single hair, and the
flower appears to hang in the air like a tiny star. In the card, the seven
starflowers represent the seven energy centers of the body that host the
inner flame.
 The Moon
The moon moves the ocean tides, as our planet
pulses under its cyclical influence. Our glow-
ing moon appears and disappears in the night
sky with the cycles of the seasons. The moon
is connected to the cyclical, instinctual powers
of birth and rebirth. It is a receptacle of evo-
lutionary knowledge. From the planet’s earliest
days, the moon has been watching and keeping
time. Under its watchful light, lifeforms have
come and gone. Nature moves with the phases
of the moon and will continue to do so for ages to come.
The moon oversees the invisible currents of emotion that influence our
lives. As a messenger of the night, it reflects inner qualities of changeability
and moodiness. Its intensity may be disorienting. Rather than be unbal-
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anced by the moon, however, let us recognize instead how it mirrors our
own inner qualities. Like the moon, we are made of the same substance as
the stars in the universe. Intelligence of a high order vibrates within our
atoms and animates us. The moon lights our path in the night and speaks
to us through our dreams. It magnifies our emergence from unconscious
thought and action. Observing the cyclical nature of the moon teaches
us to understand more fully the shifting energies in our hearts and minds.

Pink-spotted Hawk Moth

(Agrius cingulata)
The Pink-spotted Hawk Moth is native to Central and South America
but is now commonly seen throughout North America. In recent years
it has also been noted in Europe and Africa. Like most moths, it is
active in the night. In the darkness the hawk moth navigates by the
light of the moon and by the earth’s magnetic field. The hawk moth,
with its long proboscis, is one of the few insects that can pollinate the
long tubular structure of the Moonflower.
Moths move in the shadows, seeking the light, and are symbolic

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44    Major Arcana

of transformation. They are highly attuned to the currents of energy

surrounding them. The moth represents cycles and stages of unfold-
ing consciousness. The stages of the developing soul are represented
by the egg, the caterpillar, the chrysalis, and the fully awakened adult.
Every cell of the moth is transformed as it undergoes metamorphosis.

Moonflower
(Ipomoea alba)
The Moonflower, also known as the Moon Vine, is a member of the
morning glory family, which only blooms by night. In the depths of the
night, the buds spiral open into spectacular white blossoms that turn to
face the moon. The large white flowers seem to glow in the dark.
Moonflowers possess a heavenly fragrance that draws night-feeding
moths. Because of its sweet scent, the Moonflower is symbolic of intoxi-
cation and disorientation. It is said to induce prophetic dreams when
its fragrance is inhaled before going to sleep. The Moonflower is also
considered symbolic of spiraling and luminous creativity.
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Obelisk
Only
Obelisks are narrow, four-sided pillars that taper to a pyramid at the
top. They date back to the early Egyptians, who created these stone
monuments to honor their solar god. The shape was meant to symbol-
ize a petrified ray of the sun. It functioned to pierce the clouds and
disperse negative energies. Obelisks were sometimes erected singularly.
More commonly obelisks were erected in pairs at temple entrances. This
magical gateway was believed to protect sacred sites. The practice of
erecting obelisks was taken up by the Roman empire, and today Rome
is considered the obelisk capital of the world.
The moon reflects sunlight as it makes its transition from new
moon to full each month. The sun’s rays light the moon as it passes in
and out of the earth’s shadow while orbiting the earth. This movement
creates the dark and light phases of the moon. The obelisks represent
the stability and creative forces of the sun that are amplified when co-
mingled with the energy of the moon.
 The Sun
The rising sun brings renewal with each new
dawn. Every day is a new beginning. The sun
is the fire of our earth—the star that brings
growth, energy, and regeneration to all of the
lifeforms on the planet. The sun’s rays send out
restorative and healing energies, and they are
also a source of creativity and spiritual recep-
tivity. In essence the sun provides the vital
energy that fuels our world. For these reasons
many cultures have worshiped the sun since
the earliest days of civilization.
The sun illuminates the power of self-realization and awakens deep
levels of understanding. The sun is the unifying force between our phys-
ical, mental, and spiritual experience. The Sun represents divine power
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and is a vital and positive symbol of success on our spiritual journey.
It also announces the awakening of inner revelation, thereby enriching
our personal experience on all levels.

Golden Eagle
(Aquila chrysaetos)
The Golden Eagle is found throughout the Northern Hemisphere,
having the greatest range of all eagles. The hunting prowess of this
bird led to its connection with mysticism by ancient tribal peoples.
For centuries it was the most highly prized bird used for falconry.
The Golden Eagle is one of the largest birds of prey and resides in
open areas of mountainous and hilly terrain with expansive vistas
for hunting.
The Golden Eagle is symbolic of spiritual illumination, healing,
and the forces of creation. It has the ability to see beyond the horizon
and is considered the bringer of visions. This magnificent bird exhib-
its strength, courage, wisdom, and the achievement of new heights of
understanding. With keen visual perception and unsurpassed skills at

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46    Major Arcana

soaring, the eagle is our connection to the higher realms, creativity, and
the sun. The Golden Eagle soars in perfect balance and represents a life
that is lived in a state of grace.

Sunflower
(Helianthus Annuus)
The Sunflower is an annual plant that originated in the Americas. It is
believed that Native American tribes from the western regions of the
continent domesticated the plant at least 3,000 years ago. Beginning
with its cultivation by these tribes, it slowly spread eastward throughout
North America. The Sunflower was introduced to Europe in the six-
teenth century, where it quickly became important as a food crop and
ornamental plant.
During the day the Sunflower turns to face the sun. In this way it
draws the solar life force to itself. Its scientific name, helianthus, comes
from the Greek sun god, Helios. Its connection to the sun has long been
perceived by cultures around the world. This connection has led the
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Sunflower to symbolize seeking out the light and aligning ourselves
with our highest spiritual ideals. The Sunflower also represents faith,
loyalty, longevity, and good fortune. Its yellow color is symbolic of spiri-
tual evolution and expansion of the mind.

Double-Terminated Citrine
Citrine is a type of quartz, most commonly found in Brazil. Deposits
have also been found in France, the Ural Mountains of Russia, and
Madagascar. Natural citrine crystals range in color from pale yel-
low to orange. Citrine is known as the manifestation crystal. It is
believed to possess a releasing and expanding energy that helps to
remove obstacles, thereby clearing the way for healing to take place.
Citrine is said to enhance energy to the solar plexus, promoting heal-
ing of the liver, kidneys, and digestive tract. Perhaps due to its yel-
low color, citrine corresponds to the healing properties of the sun.
It is a crystal of cheerfulness and optimism with abundant healing
qualities.
A double-terminated crystal collects and emanates energies from
 The Sun    47

either end. Being perfectly terminated on both ends, it knows no lim-

its or boundaries. The double-terminated crystal expresses the balance
of spirit and matter, allows the flow of creativity, and creates a sense
of perfect unity. Double-terminated citrine is a tool for transformation
and is believed to open the doorway to enlightenment.

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 Judgement
Judgement summons us to an expanded under-
standing of what is true and what is false. It
beckons from within, inviting us to self-real-
ization and awareness. By answering its call, we
liberate ourselves from the limitations of self-
doubt, guilt, ill will, and the false appearances
overshadowing our perceptions. Living through
our minds, we may be fixated by the pull of
emotions and repetitive, sometimes overwhelm-
ing thoughts. This gives us a false sense of life,
hiding our true nature and keeping us in the dark. Judgement trumpets
a resounding call, lifting us out of antiquated perceptions that are no
longer serving us.
As we awaken from the slumber of this human experience, we see
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the world through new eyes. Judgement is our invitation to come into
the Light. Awakening a deeper sense of reality brings with it discrimi-
nating perception, a feeling of purpose, and a depth of understanding
that fills everything with new meaning. Integrating this new awareness
that unfolds from within us transforms our ability to judge and make
decisions. Judgement announces our arrival into a new level of unity. It
dares us to perceive wisely, so that we may play our true role as part of
the awakening of the One Consciousness in the world.

Large Red Damselfly

(Pyrrhosoma nymphula)
The Large Red Damselfly is one of the most common damselflies
in Europe. It inhabits lakes, ponds, bogs, and slow-moving rivers.
Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the same order of insects. Their
fossils have been found dating back 300 million years. Today there are
over 5,000 species in the world.
The damselfly and its cousin, the dragonfly, are symbolic of break-
ing through illusion and awakening our true vision. The shimmering

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 Judgement    49

wings of the damselfly represent the power of the Light that guides
us to transformation. The damselfly announces our rebirth to a new
dimension of liberation and self-realization.

Trumpet Lily
(Lilium longiflorum)
The Trumpet Lily, also known as the Easter Lily, is native to islands
south of Japan. It now thrives in warm climates worldwide. Lilies have
been cultivated for centuries and have gathered many religious and mys-
tical associations.
The Trumpet Lily is a symbol for the Archangel Gabriel, the
angel of Revelation. Gabriel is the messenger of God who brings to us
strength and understanding. Gabriel clears away illusion and is an open
channel between heaven and earth. The lily is also a symbol of spring
and represents new beginnings and the awakening of nature each year.
Other symbolism includes grace, hope, honor, and virtue. White lilies
represent purity and truth.
For Common
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Sweetgrass
(Hierochloe odorata)
Common Sweetgrass is a perennial that has been cultivated for thou-
sands of years. It is also known as Holy Grass. In Europe during the
Middle Ages, it was spread on cathedral floors to fill the holy space
with its rich aroma, invite a calm and meditative state, and attract ben-
eficial energies among the worshipers.
Sweetgrass has always been used in rites, ceremonies, and maintain-
ing sacred spaces. It is commonly burned as incense. The smoke pro-
motes cleansing, purification, and healing. Indigenous people of North
America regard sweetgrass as one of the most sacred herbs.
Sweetgrass symbolizes self-realization. It is also believed to invoke
change and bring protection and blessings. Strands of the grass woven
together represent growth and the powers of renewal. Sweetgrass is an
esoteric messenger of the ether, quieting our senses and aiding us in
calling spirits.
 The World
The World acknowledges our progress along
the complex, many-layered journey of the soul.
It does not depict completion, because the
journey of the soul is never really complete.
Rather, the World displays the dance of life,
and it appears at the successful achievement
of balance amidst the eternal movement of the
dance. Through dedication and persistence, we
have gained a new outlook. We have achieved
the realization that our connection to the spirit
within is our true treasure.
The World encompasses all that exists in the visible realm and in
the invisible realms. It is the garment of Maya, the veil that clouds our
perception. The veil spins eternally, weaving its illusions and limita-
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tions around us. We remain poised and focused in the center because
we have achieved the awareness that life exists as a manifestation of the
One Consciousness. Consciousness reveals worlds beyond the veil and
beyond our imaginations. Through our expanded perception we have
discovered an inner joy and peace in the world, a gift beyond measure.
We are rooted in the awareness that this perception is now integrated
within us and cannot be taken from us.

World Tree
Many mythologies and religions of the world embrace a sacred World
Tree, and different cultures represent it as their own indigenous
species. Similarly they all agree that the World Tree is massive and
holds up the heavens, connecting us to heaven. Its roots reach deep
within the earth, as far below as the underworld. This tree tells
the story of unity, connecting what is above with what is below. In
myth the World Tree is symbolic of life, the world, and the universe.
It holds a key for all of humanity. It deepens our connection to our
spiritual roots.

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 The World    51

The World also brings to mind the Tree of Life, another symbol
commonly found in world religions. Simply explained, the life of the
tree constitutes the life of its branches, leaves, and fruit. Without the
living force of the tree, there would be no leaves and fruit. We too are
sustained by an inner life-giving essence, as is the tree that we observe
in nature. The Tree of Life expresses how our individual lives are sup-
ported by the one true Self abiding within.

The Four Corners

of the Card
The images in the four corners represent the four fixed signs of the
zodiac. These are elements of the universe that are precise and constant.
The images also represent the four elements and form a square around
a circle. In alchemy a circle within a square is symbolic of inner work
that has been successfully completed. The symbolism contained in each
of the four corners follows:
The Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium) is a plant of high summer and
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symbolic of Leo. It symbolizes wealth and prosperity. The Blue-spotted
Salamander (Ambystoma laterale) is also related to Leo and the Fire ele-
ment. The salamander is connected to shifting realities and the unseen
mysteries of the earth.
The Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an earthy plant that represents
Taurus. It symbolizes success, victory, glory, and great merit. The
Longhorn Beetle (Batus barbicornis) is a peaceful insect that lives in
harmony with the earth. It symbolizes transformation and awakening
to a new level of spiritual understanding.
The Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) is associated with the Air ele-
ment and Aquarius. It is a tree representing purity and new beginnings.
It is linked to the light of the stars, sun, and moon. The beautiful
Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides) represents the achievement
of a new level of being. It is a bird filled with joy and content-
ment. This gentle bird of great inner strength is also associated with
Aquarius.
Both Yellow Water Lily (Nuphar polysepalum) and Butterfly Koi
(Cyprinus carpio) are related to the Water element and Scorpio. The
52    Major Arcana The World    52

Water Lily represents a pure heart and always symbolizes transforma-

tion. Butterfly Koi are highly prized ornamental fish that symbolize
unity and fidelity, as well as the attraction of higher energies, strength
of purpose, and spiritual advancement.

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 MINOR

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ARCANA
For Review Only
 The Cups
Vessels of the Water Element and
Our Emotional Aspect

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 Ace of Cups
The Ace of Cups is a card of the heart. It exudes
harmony, peace, tranquility, and the most pow-
erful emotion of all—love. The Ace reminds us
that as we encounter life’s many emotional situ-
ations, we should always keep love as the high-
est goal. By doing so we will be guided to right
action by the Divine.

White Calla Lily

(Zantedeschia Albomaculata)
The White Calla Lily is a perennial plant that grows from a rhizome
and is native to Africa. It has now naturalized the world over. It lives
in moist areas beside streams and along the banks of ponds. The White
Calla Lily’s exotic spathe is the perfect shape for collecting water, hold-

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ing the life force, and embracing love.
Lilies are symbolic of purity, grace, hope, virtue, new beginnings,
freedom from fear of failure, and love in action. The Calla Lily will
be with us throughout the entire cycle of the Cups, providing a resting
place amidst the emotional upheavals of life. It represents the guiding
principle of love, master of all emotions.

Clear Quartz Geode

The geode represents the heart with its many chambers. It is lined
with clear crystal points. Clear crystal quartz helps to calm emotional
extremes and awakens our inner vision and intuition. The heart is the
organ where the emotions reside in the body. Rising up from the geode,
the Ace of Cups represents the importance of learning to use our heart
energy with peace, love, and right intention.

Western or Pacific Bleeding Heart

(Dicentra formosa)
The Western Bleeding Heart is native to cool climates and moist wood-
lands throughout western North America. It has fern-like leaves and

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 Cups    57

clusters of heart-shaped flowers that flourish in spring and fall. Because

it self-seeds, it can quickly cover a forest floor with a rich, lush carpet.
It is adaptable and has become a garden favorite in cool, moist loca-
tions. The Bleeding Heart symbolizes the development of the emotions
of compassion, peace, and acceptance.

Luna Moth
(Actias luna)
The nocturnal Luna Moth is found in hardwood forests in Canada,
throughout the eastern United States, and as far south as northern
Mexico. It is one of the most beautiful and unusual moths in North
America. With a wingspan of up to five inches, this silk moth is one of
the larger moths in the family Saturniidae.
The Luna Moth is also known as the Moon Moth, appropriately
named since the moon is its principal guiding force. So too are our emo-
tions influenced by the cyclical, energetic movements of lunar energy.
Moths are symbolic of our psychic abilities, heightened sensitivity to
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sound and vibration, and the process of metamorphosis. Transformation
is clearly apparent as the caterpillar changes into a moth. Because it is a
night creature and strongly attracted to light, it also represents seeking
the Light.
 Two of Cups
There is always a striving for unity in the dual-
ity of Creation. This attraction is a hidden
force behind manifestation. The Two of Cups
celebrates the merging of the two ­polarities—
male and female. This can be interpreted on
many levels. It suggests a new relationship,
a partnership, sharing, communicating at a
deeper level, or becoming aware of the unity in
all of Nature.

Roses, red and white colors

(Rosa)
There are as many as 150 species of roses. Older varieties include such
treasures as antique, tea, and heritage roses. There are many modern
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hybrid varieties as well. Treasured throughout time for their beauty and
fragrance, roses have always been at the center of garden design. As far
back as the Middle Ages roses were used medicinally, but mostly they
have been coveted for their beauty and scent.
A red rose and a white rose presented together represent two united
souls. This oneness can also be symbolic of the union of the two polari-
ties, masculine and feminine, because fundamentally these energies
are not separate. In spirit everything is One, and the separation only
appears as a result of our limited perception. The intertwined roses rep-
resent an emotionally strong union that connects and creates a harmo-
nious partnership.

Pacific Tree Frog

(Pseudacris regilla)
In many parts of the world, tree frogs live high up in the tree canopies
of mixed forests. For this reason they are known as arboreal. Many spe-
cies have the special ability to change color for camouflage, disguising
themselves from predators. This type of tiny frog has some of the loud-

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 Cups    59

est voices in the forest. Tree frogs are active both day and night, and
they can be quite vocal at any time. The best way to know that one is
nearby is to listen for their resounding, powerful call that belies their
diminutive size.
Reaching for the heavens, the tree frog symbolizes serenity and
emotional healing. Frog energy ascends through the living fluidity of
water in which spirit is replenished. Symbolically the frog transcends
duality and therefore can guide us to a clearer sense of right relation-
ship. The frog also symbolizes opening to our own truth, which is the
best pathway to true and lasting relationships.

Small Mayfly
(Baetis)
Mayflies live up to two years in water in the nymph stage. Once they
are grown, they rise to the surface of the water and molt into their
adult form. As adults they live only a few days. Some only live a few
hours. It is during this brief, exalted maturity that they find their
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partner and mate.
 Three of Cups
The Three of Cups is a card of celebration. It
expresses such joyful circumstances as shar-
ing our life with others, accomplishing goals,
embracing springtime and renewal, and enjoy-
ing prosperity and abundance. Most of all it
is about sharing and connecting with friends
and family. This card may also be announcing
a celebration taking place in the near future or
perhaps a successful collaboration of some sort.

California Quail
(Callipepla californica)
Quail are beautiful, small ground birds with colorful and intricate feather
patterns. They love to gather and are often seen busily foraging for seeds

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and berries. They can be found in groups in city parks, gardens, and yards,
as well as in wild open areas, and they are usually near water.
Quail are harmonious, group-oriented birds. Because they live in
cohesive coveys, they represent group harmony, tolerance, team play,
and protectiveness. They share life, friendship, and happiness. Their
feather colors are meaningful too. Brown and white feathers symbolize
happiness. Gray and white feathers symbolize hope. Additionally gray
feathers symbolize peace and brown feathers symbolize health, stability,
and being well-grounded. These are delightful, gentle birds who know
how to share and cooperate freely and with joy.

Huckleberry
(Vaccinium membranaceum),
Wild Strawberry
(Fragaria virginiana),
Snowberry
(Symphoricarpos albus)
Huckleberries are considered by many to be the most delicious of the
wild berries. They are excellent eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, pies,
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and more. The dried leaves are said to make delicious teas. The berries
also have many medicinal uses.
The Wild Strawberry is a diminutive version of the domestic straw-
berry. But if you are lucky enough to find them growing and patient
enough to pick them, you will experience a true delight, with flavor
bursting from these tiny morsels. Wild Strawberries are actually the
original parent of 90 percent of all cultivated strawberries.
Snowberries are poisonous to humans. But although they are not
fit for human consumption, they are a favorite of quail and other small
ground-dwelling birds.
The berries in this card are all about abundance and the enjoyment
of life. Huckleberries represent the simple pleasures of life. Strawberries
are full of goodness and perfection. Snowberries symbolize grounding
energies and the awakening of the heart.

Common Oat
(Avena sativa)

For Review Only

The Common Oat has its ancestral roots in the Middle East and Near
East. In the early days of human history, it became popular as a cereal
grain and feed for livestock. This led to its widespread, prolific cultivation.
What would festivity be without music? Oats symbolize both the
enchanting allure of music and the love of it. And we must not forget to
include the dearly loved oatmeal cookie in any celebration of life.
 Four of Cups
Drawing the Four of Cups indicates an inabil-
ity to take action. It is not that circumstances
are binding us, but rather that we are somehow
limiting ourselves. In other words the limita-
tion is coming from within. We must find the
impulse to activate our inner resources and
open up to the world. Doing so will allow new
possibilities to appear. The cup floating in the
sky represents what is offered from the Divine,
and it is the key to finding right action and a
worthwhile goal. The best results will emerge through deeper contem-
plation. In this way we will discover the clarity of the heart that will
release us from the impasse.

For Review Only

Brown-lipped Banded Snail or
Grove Snail
(Cepaea nemoralis)
The Grove Snail is a common and widespread land-dwelling snail of
Europe, and it has been introduced in North America as well. It lives
in a wide range of habitats, including coastal climes, dry sand dunes,
and inland forests. Its habitat includes gardens, parks, cultivated land,
and roadsides, both urban and rural. These are slow-growing snails, and
they live up to seven years.
Observing a snail, it is clear to see that the shape of its shell is a spiral.
The spiral represents slow but steady expansion. It can also suggest follow-
ing the spiral movement inward to seek answers. The slowly moving snail
also represents perseverance, determination, and self-discipline. These are
all attributes necessary to stay the course and open to new possibilities.
In the card, something new is floating on a scallop shell right
behind the snail. But this is the one place the snail is not focusing its
attention. The scallop represents movement, and it is holding the fourth
cup, which represents divinely inspired opportunity.

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 Cups    63

Rowan Tree or Mountain Ash

(Sorbus)
The Rowan Tree, also called Mountain Ash, thrives in both Europe
and North America. There are about eighty species in North America.
Most varieties are generally small shrubs, but some are trees. They
thrive in poor soil and colonize disturbed areas. It is unknown whether
they found their way to ancient sites in Europe because of their oppor-
tunistic nature or because they were planted.
The snail has the potential to soar with new inspiration because it
is resting on the Rowan Tree. This is a magical tree that has ancient
symbolic meanings, including personal protection and visionary awak-
ening. It inspires self-empowerment, self-expression, and self-control.
The Rowan will bring a clear sense of purpose, as well as security from
any distractions that must be overcome.

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 Five of Cups
Here we have a character dwelling on things
that have not worked out well in the past. If we
have drawn the Five of Cups, we are being asked
to explore unconscious emotions surrounding
our situation. We may be dwelling in self-pity,
not realizing that there are two cups filled with
new possibilities. Sometimes old cups must be
emptied to make room for new experiences in
life. The message clearly encourages us not to
wallow in what has past, but rather to recognize
the powerful negative emotions that are preventing us from opening to
new joys. Opening ourselves to new inspiration through self-reflection,
we may discover the path to our own liberation.

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Review
Brandt’s Cormorant
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penicillatus)
There are as many as forty species of the seabirds known as cormorants.
The Brandt’s Cormorant is a coastal bird of western North America.
All species of cormorants are fish eaters, and they dive deeply in search
of their catch. Scientists have tracked them to depths of 150 feet. They
can be seen in groups, sunning themselves, wings outspread in a most
peculiar way. This distinctive posture makes them easy to identify in
their natural habitat along coastlines and inland waters.
Cormorants often swim with their bodies submerged to the neck.
Are we, like the cormorant, submerged in our emotions right up to our
neck? Perhaps what we have lost has made room for something new and
fresh to come into our lives. Diving deeply, the cormorant is a symbol of
bringing up unconscious wisdom through introspection and self-exam-
ination. By focusing our attention in a new direction, we clear the way
for new horizons to open. The cormorant appears before us, encour-
aging us to release self-doubt, disappointment, wasted energy, and any
other negativity to which we cling and limit ourselves.

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 Cups    65

Moonseed
(Menispermum Canadense)
This plant gets its name from the seed inside each berry, which is shaped
like a crescent moon. Menispermum is from the Greek and means
“moon” and “seed.” Moonseed is found growing along stream banks and
in moist woods throughout eastern North America. The climbing vine
can grow to twelve feet high and produces greenish yellow flowers that
develop into deadly berries.
The poisonous black berries are often mistaken for wild grapes.
Many accidental deaths have occurred, and perhaps this is why this
plant has symbolic meanings of sadness and sorrow. In the Five of Cups,
the Moonseed even has dead leaves draping from the spilled cups. This
emphasizes the message of this card, which is to stop lingering in this
position emotionally or psychologically. It is time to recognize the fact
that what we have lost was not serving us well.

Chives
For Review Only
(Allium schoenoprasum)
The Chive is the smallest member of the Allium genus, which also
includes onions, garlic, and leeks. It is a perennial with long, hollow,
tubular stems and beautiful pink flowers. It is a symbol of good fortune
and prosperity. Perched in one of the two cups still standing, it repre-
sents new possibilities.

Cornflower
(Centaurea cyanus)
Also known as Bachelor Buttons, the Cornflower is a garden favorite.
It is a symbol of hope and love. Perched in the other remaining cup, it
represents the potential for positive forces to come into our lives.
 Six of Cups
The Six of Cups is a card of renewal and new
beginnings. We have left behind self-doubt and
fears, and now we are ready to begin sharing.
Feelings of generosity and an openness of the
heart are coming from within. We are sharing
and trusting as we engage with the world. This
card invites us to be grateful for friends and fam-
ily and to give generously with pure and innocent
intentions. It suggests that now is the time for
fresh beginnings wherever possible in our lives.

Common Green Grasshopper

(Omocestus viridulus)
The Common Green Grasshopper thrives in wet regions throughout
For Review Only
Europe, and it is widely distributed all through Great Britain. This
grasshopper makes its home among tall native grasses. It is considered
beneficial in promoting diversity among the grasses because it does not
thrive on one species alone. This protects the biodiversity of grasslands.
This grasshopper is most commonly green all over, although there
are a few color variations in different environments. Green Grasshoppers
symbolize new beginnings, growth, and youthful enthusiasm for life.
Other symbolic meanings of the grasshopper include making new leaps
forward, letting the inner voice guide us, and boldly moving with pride
and courage into new experiences. The grasshopper encourages us to
trust our own instincts and leap into new ventures without too much
planning.
Both the males and females of this species sing when ready to
attract a mate. They rub a hind leg and wing together to create a dis-
tinctive song. The song begins quietly, then builds to a crescendo of
great intensity before diminishing. Symbolically the grasshopper carries
the power of song and also represents the ability to use sound to alter
consciousness.

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 Cups    67

Stream Violet or Yellow Wood Violet

(Viola glabella)
The low-growing yellow flower we call Stream or Wood Violet is very
common in shady, damp forest groves. It is one of more than eighty
varieties of wild violets that grow in North America, and there are even
more native violet species in Europe.
The Stream Violet has heart-shaped leaves, representing the many
attributes it symbolizes. These include modesty, virtue, affection, sim-
plicity, and pure love. These are all qualities of the humble heart, which
is our gateway to the renewal and new beginnings represented by the
Six of Cups.

For Review Only

 Seven of Cups
Representing a world of choices, the Seven of
Cups is a card of potential. On one level, this
card may reflect the many aspects of our per-
sonality that have developed over our lifetime.
These are aspects of ourselves that we must
examine closely to more fully understand our
nature and flourish in life. On a deeper level,
this card is asking us to realize that we are the
masters of our own reality, with infinite pos-
sibilities within our reach.
We should carefully consider the questions that are posed by the
Seven of Cups. With all of the riches presented in the world of form,
which are distractions and which are of true value? How will we choose
what we express in the world? Will we choose from the heart or from
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the desires of the ego?

Pink-tongued Skink
(Cyclodomorphus gerrardii)
The Pink-tongued Skink is a lizard from Australia, land of the
Aboriginal Dreamtime. This lizard dwells in humid coastlines along
the eastern part of the continent, favoring wet environments such as
rain forests. It is also commonly seen in suburban areas with well-
watered gardens and rockeries.
The lizard is the master of the Dreamtime, a place in Consciousness
where Australian Aboriginals believe primordial life exists, expands,
and emanates to the earth and creates our reality. Dreams are power-
ful allies that connect us with our subconscious and can reveal things
about which we are unaware. Dreams relate to our innermost aspects,
motivations, and emotions. By observing their messages and applying
them in our daily lives, dreams can bring a clarity of mind, which will
help us to make the right choices in life.
The lizard represents extremely sensitive perceptive skills. All of

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 Cups    69

the lizard’s senses are acute. Its hearing is excellent, its eyes are sharply
aware of any movements, and it can sense vibrations in the ground that
are imperceptible to almost all other creatures. The lizard reminds us to
seek out our inner vision and explore our subconscious hopes and fears.
It is our guide to releasing the attachments of the ego so that we can see
more clearly what motivates our choices.

Common Plants in the Seven of Cups

Listed here are the myriad of plants overflowing the seven cups. These
are all familiar plants to most of us. The symbolism and the riches they
represent are meaningful aspects for us to ponder as we dream our life
into manifestation. The Seven of Cups is a very positive card. As we
examine the opportunities presented by this card, remember that it is
up to us to determine what flows into our lives.
Clockwise from the upper left corner: Cherry blossoms (Prunus)
represent spring, alluring fragrance, and the beauty of a life well lived.
The Walnut ( Juglandaceae) is a symbol of wisdom, the intellect, and
For Review Only
other qualities of a fine mind. Pears (Pyrus communis) are symbols of
love and affection. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) represents success
and victory in any endeavor. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) represents
wealth and prosperity. Corn (Zea mays) always signifies abundance. In
the center, the Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) symbolizes the oracle,
which is our connection to the inspiring divine impulse.
All of the cups, filled with nature’s bounty, represent the best of
life’s choices. These possibilities are ever present for us to choose and
embrace.
 Eight of Cups
The Eight of Cups draws attention to our jour-
ney of personal growth as we move through
life. It reminds us that as we mature and evolve,
our progression toward higher awareness is
marked by stages. It takes wisdom, inspira-
tion, and good instincts to know when to stop
and reflect on our accomplishments, and then
boldly surrender to a new phase of our lives
that we instinctively know lies ahead. Always
keep in mind that the most important aspect
of our journey is deepening and enriching our spirit.
The Eight of Cups also beckons us back to our spiritual roots. It
encourages us to take the time to observe the progress we have made in
life and honor our efforts before we proceed. By doing so, we develop a
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larger vision of life evolving through cycles of growth and movement.
Personal reflection will deepen our trust in a process that will carry us
forward to new and positive experiences.

Chinook Salmon
(Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Also known as the King Salmon, the Chinook is the largest species of
the Pacific salmon. The word salmon is derived from the Latin word
salmo, which means “to leap.” Salmon are great travelers. They are
born in fresh water, migrate to the ocean, and later in life they return
to fresh water to breed and complete their life cycle. This amazing
journey has spawned a great deal of symbolic meaning related to
the salmon.
The salmon helps us to see the importance of understanding life,
with its cycles and completions, as a journey. It illustrates the ability to
know when to move on to the next phase of our story. Life is filled with
change, and it is good to understand change as a necessary part of our
spiritual growth. The salmon symbolizes persevering, moving forward

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 Cups    71

toward one’s destiny while always trusting the unknown. It epitomizes

the surrender to the spiritual mystery of life.

Sweet Pea
(Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet Pea rambles over trellises and arbors, adding a great splash of
color to any garden. Perhaps it is this traveling nature that has led to
its symbolic meaning of departure. The salmon carries the sweet pea as
a reminder to us that as one cycle ends, a new one begins. We should
always acknowledge the things we have completed. As we move on to
new experiences, we carry with us our accomplishments. These are the
building blocks for the next stage of our journey.

For Review Only

 Nine of Cups
Satisfied and confident with our position in
life, our world reflects the success we have
earned through effort and hard work. We have
reached a prosperous level of accomplishment.
In the card, the nine cups appear in an orderly
array, indicating such things as abundance,
achievement, and emotional satisfaction. The
Nine of Cups is often called the card of wishes
fulfilled.
We have reached a level of maturity rip-
ened by the lessons we have learned through our life experiences and
emotional development. As we rest on our achievements, however, it is
wise to realize the soul never rests. We are now positioned to enter a
more complete and balanced state, and we are sensing inner stirrings.
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From here we progress to our next level of personal evolution. The Nine
of Cups finds us poised and balanced for future success.

Yellow Bear Caterpillar

(Spilosoma virginica)
Yellow Bear is a beautiful caterpillar with tufts of hair-like bristles that
can vary in color from brown, amber, orange, yellow, to even almost
white. It is the larval form of the Virginia Tiger Moth. It ranges
throughout North America, as far north as southern Canada and as far
south as Mexico. This caterpillar can actually move quite quickly, so do
not be surprised if it cannot be easily caught.
The Yellow Bear forages happily on the ground, eating mainly grass,
clover, and sometimes shrubs. It believes its world is abundant and com-
plete, and it has a sense of physical and emotional well-being. Then
something starts to stir within. It is an impulse that prompts the cater-
pillar into a new journey in life. At this moment, feeling these stirrings,
the mature caterpillar is prompted by an inner call to a higher experi-
ence. Little does it know it will later emerge as a Virginia Tiger Moth.

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 Cups    73

Common Fig
(Ficus carica)
The caterpillar is perched on the Common Fig, a plant that bears edible
fruit and has distinctive three-lobed leaves. Native to Turkey and west-
ern Asia, this small deciduous tree has been cultivated for many centu-
ries and has a rich history.
The fig’s close connection to humanity has led to its many symbolic
meanings. It represents a love of life and family, happiness, and abun-
dance. The fig also suggests a character of strong will and sensibility.
Most importantly it signifies the good things of this world. In business,
it is an omen of success and prosperity. This is a perfect resting place
to pause and reflect on life’s accomplishments, emotional growth, and
lessons well learned.

For Review Only

 Ten of Cups
Everything is coming up rainbows. Life is filled
with love, sharing, family, and friends. The Ten
of Cups is a card of plenty, rich with heartfelt
fulfillment. Our emotional life is lifted to a
high state of harmony and unity with others.
We have achieved a true understanding of com-
passion. It is a time for gratitude and sharing
our inner joy.

Bearded Iris
(Iris Germanica)
There are many, many varieties of the Bearded Iris. The original and most
common variety comes from the German iris of old. Irises are one of the
most popular flowers in the perennial garden. The Bearded Iris has been
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developed into its many colors and varieties through the patience and
efforts of countless gardeners in its past. There are also many wild irises
in both North America and Europe. But of all the irises, the treasured
and nurtured Bearded Iris best represents our work with our emotions.
This flower was named after the Greek goddess Iris, who was
believed to be the divine personification of the rainbow. In the myth
the rainbow is the colorful trail the goddess leaves behind as she forms
the bridge between heaven and earth. The iris represents the high
spiritual path we travel when we attend to our emotions. Iris offers
the promise of love, hope, faith, and cherished friendship. Rainbows
symbolize peace, harmony, and the realization of our desires. All of
these meanings are deeply embedded in the Ten of Cups.

Trumpeter Swan
(Cygnus buccinator)
Trumpeter Swans were once common in their range over northern and
western North America. Now they are rare but making a comeback
through the diligent efforts of naturalists. Trumpeter Swans inhabit

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 Cups    75

sheltered freshwater areas, marshes, and brackish coastal lakes. These

swans mate for life, and both parents take part in the rearing of the
young cygnets.
Swans are the epitome of grace. Their most important symbolic
meaning is surrender to the divine plan. Their serenity and nurturing
qualities represent balance and wisdom achieved through emotional
fulfillment. Swans help us recognize the value of leaving the powerful
torrents of raging emotional waters and resting on the cool, calm waters
of love in action.

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 Page of Cups
The Page of Cups is gentle, kind, and car-
ing. This Page has shifted to a new emotional
state that includes an understanding of love
and compassion for humanity. Personal love is
now experienced on a deeper level. Emerging
new talents reveal qualities of freshness, cre-
ativity, and sensitivity. A certain style is pres-
ent, not found in the other Pages. The energy
of the Page of Cups is colorful, bright, and
youthful. It is with this card that we discover
an inner tranquility, present but not yet mature, which aids in our
continuing work to balance our emotions and allow our creative flair
to emerge.

For (Murgantia
Review
Harlequin Bug
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histrionica)
The Harlequin Bug gets its name from its bright and distinctive color
patterns. The Greek word histrio means “clown” or “jester.” It is native
to Mexico and Central America and now also inhabits warmer regions
of North America.
The Harlequin Bug makes a colorful and stylish Page of Cups. Its
colorful patterns speak of artistic flair and liveliness. The red, orange, and
yellow colors remind us that the emotions are still youthful and complex.

Primrose
(Primula vulgaris)
The Page perches on the Primrose, sometimes called the English
Primrose, which is native to western and southern Europe. At one time,
before people encroached upon its habitat, it covered the ground in many
open woods. Its popularity caused it to be removed and transplanted
to gardens. While this practice is no longer allowed, Primroses are no
longer commonly seen in the same radiant and abundant displays.

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 Cups    77

The true native color of the Primrose is pale yellow. The pink color
is believed to be a genetic variant of the native form. This first flower
of spring is so popular that hybrids of many colors have been created
and are now grown worldwide. Since the Primrose is a flower of early
spring, it symbolizes youthfulness. Because of its beauty and appeal, we
could also consider it a symbol of the Page’s colorful flair.

Trailing Arbutus
(Epigaea repens)
Trailing Arbutus is not a common plant. It is a delicate, woody ever-
green herb that creates a ground cover in its native eastern North
America. Once disturbed, it never regenerates in that location and its
habitat is lost. It reflects the vulnerable side of the Page, sensitive and
tender. Sometimes known as Mayflower, this plant is also symbolic of
talent not yet shown and has been given the phrase “budding beauty.”

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 Knight of Cups
The Knight of Cups is a master of the emo-
tional world. He explores and defends this
world with unorthodox tools for a Knight.
These include intuition, trust in his instincts,
a keen sense of observation, creativity, and his
strong personal appeal. All of these tools are
wielded in a peaceful manner. Even though
he has a quiet alluring nature, being a Knight
he can still be bold, and he is willing to take
risks in pursuit of great dreams. Like quiet
water, the Knight of Cups acts with calmness, depth, and sensitivity
because underlying every move is his deepest motivation—to express
love in action.

For Review
Wood Duck
(Aix sponsa)
Only
Wood Ducks are called perching ducks because they are equipped with
sharp claws to help them dwell in trees and branches. They are found
throughout North America and western Mexico. Their habitat includes
wooded marshes and swamps, ponds and shallow lakes, and creeks,
where they find hollow tree cavities for nesting.
The Wood Duck is considered by many to be the most beautiful
duck in North America. The male is covered in colorful plumage and
upon his head is a beautiful iridescent crest. The Knight of Cups, too,
is considered the most handsome of all the Knights. He is full of charm,
romance, and an intriguing presence.
As a water-dwelling bird, the duck represents the balancing of our
emotions and honoring of our deepest feelings. Ducks are at ease in
the air, in the water, and on land. For this reason they signify versatil-
ity and agility. They are kind, sensitive, and tolerant. Symbolically they
represent peace keepers.
Boldly colored ducks, such as the Wood Duck, are associated with

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 Cups    79

strength and perseverance. These qualities help us to take charge and

master our emotions. Balancing strong emotions with reason and logic
can aid us in self-understanding and learning to love and honor our-
selves. The Knight of Cups demonstrates these qualities in his worldly
activities.

Yellow Flag Iris

(Iris pseudacorus)
The wild iris known as Yellow Flag is native to Europe, western Asia,
and northwestern Africa. It has made its way to North America, where
it is considered an invasive species. Yellow Flag grows in wetlands and
along stream banks, and it can even tolerate being submerged. It spreads
quickly from its rhizome, a tuberous root, and the seeds are also carried
in the water.
The symbolic meanings of the iris include faith, hope, wisdom,
courage, and admiration. Keeping with the emotional theme of the
Cups, the yellow iris is specifically all about passion.
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 Queen of Cups
The Queen of Cups rules the watery kingdom
of emotions. Because water and emotional
energies are feminine in nature, she is the cor-
nerstone of the suit of Cups. This Queen is a
deep soul of inner strength. She is sensitive,
compassionate, empathetic, intuitive, comfort-
ing to others, and serene. She is always aware
of her emotions and the role they play in the
path to spirit. She manifests from a high state
where her awareness blends conscious action
with unconscious thought. Loving and nurturing, she exemplifies the
way to express divine love and embrace others from the heart.

Western Honey Bee

For Review
(Apis mellifera)
Only
The Western Honey Bee is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and was
introduced to North America in the 1600s. It is now found worldwide,
and it is the best known of all the honey bees. It gets its name from
Latin—apis meaning “bee,” melli meaning “honey,” and ferre which
means “to bear.” Hence the name “honey-bearing bee.”
Bees are generally considered to be symbols of fertility. They are
group-minded and work hard to create a harmonious community, always
placing the good of others before their own needs. The Celts associated
them with hidden wisdom. The hexagon shapes of the cells in the hon-
eycomb are symbolic of creativity, stability, and the heart. Honey bees
are considered prophetic and visionary, as is the Queen of Cups.

Orange Tree
(Citrus sinensis)
The blossoms of the Orange Tree are one of the most fragrant of all flow-
ers. Probably because they produce such rich and luscious fruit, orange
blossoms are symbols of fertility and fruitfulness. Additional meanings

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 Cups    81

include eternal love, purity, good fortune, and happiness. Symbolically we

could not ask for a better tree to host our Queen of Cups.
The spiraling shell on the Orange Tree is the vessel holding the
precious honey. The shell and its spiraling pattern are often considered
symbols of good luck and royalty. It is also associated with water, the
fluid of life, and is a source of abundance and fertility.

American Water Willow

( Justicia Americana)
The American Water Willow is a perennial that grows from rhizomes
and forms large colonies along shorelines in the shallow water of lakes,
ponds, and streams. It has deep roots and is used to stabilize the banks
of ponds and streams. Just so, the Queen of Cups stabilizes her realm
through her deep vision and balanced emotions. The flowers of the
Water Willow provide an excellent source of nectar for bees.
The symbolic meaning of the Water Willow is freedom. Freedom
from the enslavement of our emotions allows us to be a vehicle of love
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and service to others. In this way our actions and deeds will always
manifest the highest good. Many call it self-sacrifice, but rightly under-
stood, service to others holds the key to our freedom. The Queen of
Cups invites us to explore this idea.
 King of Cups
The King of Cups is self-controlled, levelheaded,
and steady. He uses his emotions wisely, with
sensitivity, understanding, and concern for the
betterment of others. He is aware of his respon-
sibility as a father figure in the midst of a tumul-
tuous world. He is articulate and an excellent
communicator. This King has great insight into
the emotions of others, which makes him a
wonderful diplomat and humanitarian. Guided
by his great intellect and compassionate nature,
he is a powerful advocate of education. A wonderful teacher and healer
himself, he has achieved the highest level of emotional responsibility, and
he engages his emotions with great wisdom.

For Review
Common Crane
(Grus grus)
Only
Also known as the Eurasian Crane, the Common Crane is a large and
stately bird that resides in the northern regions of Europe and Asia. A
long-distance migrant, it has been known to make rare appearances in
Japan and Korea. It has also been noted in western North America, where
individual birds are occasionally seen with migrating Sandhill Cranes. In
his role as a diplomat and world leader, the King of Cups loves to travel,
learn new languages, and see new sights. With its expansive migratory
traits, the crane is an excellent embodiment of the King of Cups.
The crane also symbolizes justice in many cultures, as well as the
ability to achieve proper focus in all pursuits. Other symbolic meanings
include royalty, pride, balance, longevity, and good fortune.

King’s Scepter
(Alpinia platychilus)
King’s Scepter is by far the most spectacular plant of the ginger family.
This exotic plant is native to the high-altitude forests of the Himalayas.

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 Cups    83

It seeks out gaps in the forest canopy, where it thrives in the filtered
light. It inhabits environments that are moist and grassy. The symbolic
meaning of ginger is strength.

American Mistletoe
(Phoradendron flavescens)
American Mistletoe is native throughout North America. It grows on
a variety of host trees, and its young leaves and shoots provide food for
many animals, birds, and insects. Although it is a different species from
the European Mistletoe, many of the same myths and beliefs are held
about it.
Mistletoe is a magical plant of the Druids. The Celts called this
plant “all heal” because of its many medicinal properties. Because it lives
in close association with its host tree, it is believed to hold the soul of
the tree. It is also thought to have descended from the sky on a bolt of
lightning, affixing itself to its favorite host—the mighty oak. Symbolic
meanings include strength, courage, invincibility, protection, and love.
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For Review Only
 The Wands
Moving Through Fire from Intellect
to Intuition and Creativity

For Review Only

 Ace of Wands
New and inspirational energies are awakening
with the Ace of Wands. With the appearance
of this card, we catch the first glimpse of our
ability to develop our spirituality through con-
scious thought and action. The Ace of Wands
reminds us that we possess latent talent and
creativity that is yet to be tapped. We are asked
to put the divine spark that resides within us
into everything we do. We will then discover a
true passion for life that is our hidden spiritual
treasure and our gift to the world.

Lavender
(Lavandula officinalis)

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Lavender has long been appreciated for its heavenly fragrance. Its use as
a perfume began with the Phoenicians and Egyptians. In early Rome it
was common to scent baths with lavender, and its name came from the
Latin verb lavare, which means “to wash.”
Symbolically Lavender speaks of devotion, love, and joy. It also
represents protection, purification, and dauntlessness. All these quali-
ties of Lavender encourage our growth and renewal. It cleanses the way
for us to achieve a brighter and loftier perspective. Lavender represents
the positive reinforcement needed to move forward with new and cre-
ative endeavors. Its woody and fibrous roots keep us grounded, and its
feathery, purple, fragrant clusters of flowers send us soaring toward our
higher purpose. The color purple is composed of red and blue. Blue is
the color of peace and reflection. Red is the color of action and energy.

Seven-spotted Ladybug Beetle

(Coccinella septapunctata)
Ladybug Beetles are one of the beetles most of us recognize instantly.
They have red or orange bodies with patterns of black spots. They are

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ferocious eaters of aphids and other plant pests, making them a wonder-
ful asset in any garden. Ladybugs are dearly loved and considered good
luck and a good omen.
The name Ladybug Beetle originated in Europe in the Middle
Ages when farmers prayed to the Virgin Mary for relief from the
insects that were devastating their crops. Shortly thereafter ladybugs
appeared and began eating the pests. The crops were saved, and farm-
ers began calling them “the Beetles of Our Lady.” Eventually they
became known as Ladybug Beetles—or Ladybird Beetles, as they are
called in Britain.
Ladybugs represent growth and the manifestation of new thoughts
and ideas. They often herald a new beginning and convey to us the jubi-
lant message that it is time to succeed. The Ladybug Beetle represents
trusting in the process and allowing spirit to guide our actions. When
we follow our instincts and let things flow, prosperity shall surely follow.

Amethyst

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Amethyst is a form of quartz crystal that ranges in color from pale vio-
let to deep purple. One of the most beautiful gems of the quartz family,
it has been highly prized since ancient times. It is found in many coun-
tries around the world. From this mineral the Egyptians carved amulets
and many other objects that have been found in tombs.
Amethyst is believed to give strength during periods of increased
activity. It aids with mental clarity and strengthens willpower. It bal-
ances the body so that it is more finely tuned, thereby allowing intu-
ition to flow. Amethyst is believed to quiet our self-centered thoughts
and allow more profound insights to enter the mind.
 Two of Wands
The Two of Wands is oriented toward the
west. This represents looking back over past
achievements. It is good to look back and review
our assets. Our past is rich with successful
accomplishments, which will become the
foundation for new endeavors. What we have
built in the past can afford us the opportunity
to follow our personal aspirations in some new
direction. An inner calling is driving us to
deeper and more creative work.
The Two of Wands is poised in reflection, a solitary moment, before
advancing into something fresh. We are fueled by a passion to begin
a new endeavor, and it is good to possess the clarity that comes from
wisdom gained through past experience. We should also recognize the
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importance of listening closely to our inner stirrings.

American Robin
(Turdus migratorius)
The American Robin is the harbinger of spring. It is one of the first
birds we see as the snow leaves yards and gardens. Robins inhabit
most of North America and can be found in a variety of habitats
such as marshes, fields, forest edges, orchards, and gardens. They are
one of the first birds to sing at dawn, and one of the last to sing as
evening arrives.
The robin is a symbol of new beginnings. It speaks of joy, hope,
renewal, and a bright future. It also represents progress that may
have been slow and arduous. But with proper focus and patience,
spiritual ideals are being achieved. The robin lays beautiful pow-
der blue eggs, which are symbolic of the incubation of new ideas
and a new life born out of the aspiration to express our highest
creative goals.

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 Wands    89

White Ash Tree

(Fraxinus Americana)
Ash trees are found throughout the world. They were held sacred by the
Druids, who often used the wood to make wands. The wood is straight-
grained and white. The gray bark forms fissures as the tree ages, which
is a distinctive identifying feature. Ash burns with an intensely hot
flame, leading to its identification with the elements of Fire and Air in
ancient mythologies.
Symbolically the ash tree is associated with expansion and a higher
perspective. Its massive root system is a grounding force, reminding us
of the value of a foundation developed through past successes. When on
the verge of setting out to seek our higher goals, the ash tree reminds
us of the importance of staying grounded and focusing our energies
through planning and inner reflection.

Yellow Poppy
(Stylophorum diphyllum)

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The Yellow Poppy is also known as the Wood Poppy. In spring and
early summer, it covers forest floors with carpets of deep yellow flowers.
Historically, this plant has had a rich connection to humanity. Poppies
were cultivated as long ago as the dynasties of the Egyptian pharaohs.
They have been found in tombs dating back 3,000 years. To the Greeks,
they were a symbol of fertility, strength, and health. In modern floral
symbolism they represent wealth and success.
 Three of Wands
The Three of Wands draws our attention to
introspection, perspective, focus, and plan-
ning. We are perched at an excellent vantage
point to survey the scene of our lives and
observe what is unfolding in our experience.
Here we see, from this lofty perspective, our
creative journey. We must take time to culti-
vate our inner resources and enrich our con-
nection to the infinite power of the universe
that is at hand. In this way we will experi-
ence the fullness of the opportunity that lies before us. The Three of
Wands beckons us to be still and watch our inner resources in action
while we create our reality.

For Review
Red-tailed Hawk
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(Buteo Jamaicensis)
The Red-tailed Hawk is widely distributed throughout North America.
It can live in a variety of habitats, such as high elevation forests, lowland
meadows, and even deserts. It is a member of the genus Buteo, which is
a group of medium-sized raptors with broadly shaped bodies and broad
wings. Its distinguishing characteristic is its rusty red tail, which is why
it was so named.
The hawk, with its keen sense of observation, is believed to have
strong visionary powers. It is also associated with patience and repre-
sents the power of surrender to the guidance of Spirit. Other hawk sym-
bolism includes illumination, watchfulness, and clear insight. These are
all qualities that aid us in awakening to new opportunities and in learn-
ing how to view life from a higher perspective. The hawk guides us in
our quest to fulfill our soul’s purpose.

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 Wands    91

Common Apple
(Malus pumila)
The treasured apple tree has traveled the world over with people. Many
varieties have been developed from the Common Apple, which is native
to southeastern Europe and central Asia. It was introduced to North
America by early settlers and has naturalized throughout the continent.
The apple is generally considered a blessing—a symbol of the beauty
and bounty that life provides. The apple blossom indicates the promise
of good fortune and wonderful things to come.
The apple tree is also a symbol of creativity, which we can observe
as we watch the miracle of the barren tree coming into bloom. Insects
then pollinate the blossoms ensuring that, later, the tree becomes laden
with luscious fruit. The apple tree is clearly symbolic of fruitful riches
that manifest through an invisible creative process.

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 Four of Wands
The living staffs of the Four of Wands are
planted like pillars. They represent a gateway
or passageway through which we are invited
to step. This card bids us to acknowledge the
flowering of our creativity into manifested
form. Deepening inner work has allowed ideas
to flow into the world and take root. Our
desires and dreams have been realized, and they
have come to fruition. It is time to celebrate
our achievements. The Four of Wands speaks
of celebrating a work accomplished and the success we have achieved by
stepping into the flow of our creative energies.

European Elder Tree

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(Sambucus nigra)
Elder grows to a tree or shrub and can be as tall as thirty feet. It prefers
damp locations along the edge of woodlands. Ancient peoples created
wands, flutes, and panpipes from the hollowed branches of elder, and
these instruments were said to have magical properties. But the stems
and branches contain a toxic alkaloid, so today such use is not recom-
mended. Elders were also recognized for their medicinal value as far
back as the Stone Age. Scientists have found evidence of its cultivation
in ancient village sites in Europe.
As well as having great healing powers, the elder tree is consid-
ered to be a symbol of renewal, prosperity, creativity, and regenera-
tion. Its meanings are tied to evolution, and elder is said to be a plant
of transition, continuation, and a gateway to new dimensions. It is
also considered the tree of the fairy realm by the Celts. Drawn by
the lovely music from elder instruments, fairies are lured to attend a
celebration.

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 Wands    93

Hollyhock
(Alcea rosea)
Showy, tall spikes of Hollyhock put on a splendid display in summer.
Hollyhock is a biennial originally from the Middle East and believed to
have been taken to England from the Holy Land during the Crusades.
So began the journey of Hollyhock to becoming a garden favorite
everywhere.
Symbolically the Hollyhock represents the obtaining of our desires,
coming into fruition, and the flowering of creativity. These Hollyhocks
are white, which represents warmth, peace, happiness, and the purity of
spirit. Just beyond the arches, the Hollyhock beckons us to honor our
success.

Butterflies
(Lepidoptera)
There are approximately 170,000 species of butterflies and moths in
the world. They are probably one of the most treasured of all insects
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because of their fascinating colors and patterns and for the liberating
feeling they instill in us.
Butterflies are most commonly known as symbols of transforma-
tion. They also symbolize joy, lightness, and dancing on the winds of
spirit. They awaken us to the importance of following the rhythm of
life on our journey of transformation. Attuning to life’s natural flow is
key to a blessed passage along the spiritual path.
 Five of Wands
Wands are wielded in every direction in the
Five of Wands. Clearly there is a conflict of
opinion. Ideas are flying everywhere without
any agreement. While this interaction does have
the potential for creative results, those involved
will first have to put their self-importance aside
and learn to work together. This is a very active
card with conflict, debate, disagreement, and
much disruption. Its youthful and passionate
nature, however, is on the intellectual level.
This suit is about working with our mind and spirit. To reach a creative
goal, there needs to be a meeting of minds, and some organization must
result from the debate.
On another level this card represents aspects of the personality that
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are in conflict and must be put in order as we strive to resolve our per-
sonal issues. From this deeper perspective the meaning of the Five of
Wands is the work of inner growth.

Roman Chamomile
(Anthemis nobilis)
Also known as English Chamomile or Common Chamomile, this
plant has a long history of medicinal uses dating back to Egyptian
times. In modern herbalism, it is most commonly recognized for its
use as a calming agent and as a natural aid to sleep. Chamomile is a
low-growing perennial plant found in fields throughout Europe and
North America.
Chamomile symbolizes energy in action, as well as energy in adver-
sity. It also represents fortitude, a quality that is required to work
through the conflicting energies at play in the Five of Wands. On the
lush green field of chamomile, the beetles work to find inspirational
common ground and develop their cooperative skills.

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Beetles
(Coleoptera)
Beetles are the insect order Coleoptera, and 370,000 different species
exist today. They are found in every environment, all over the world.
They vary widely in color and shape. All beetles have a hardened shell,
which is actually a toughened forewing known as the elytra. The
colorful, plate-like forewings are said to be responsible for their great
success in all environmental conditions. They serve as a protective
encasement that allows beetles to penetrate crevices and holes and
even live in the ground or under water, surviving in the harshest of
conditions.
Primarily beetles represent resurrection and rebirth. They also
symbolize shedding new light on problems and situations through a
more illuminated perspective. This new perspective is a rebirth, as the
beetles teach us to communicate and work with others to resolve issues,
take proper action, and harmonize disruptive energies. These beetles
remind us that creativity can flourish in an environment where we are
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willing to take a step back to temper our passions, set realistic goals,
and listen to spirit. This is the training of the mind that is called for by
the Five of Wands.
The five species shown on the card, clockwise from the top middle,
are Eastern Hercules Beetle (Dynastes tityus), Metallic Wood Boring
Beetle (Chalcophora), Click Beetle (Chalcolepidius limbatus), Flower
Chafer (Iumnos ruckeri), and Nuttall’s Blister Beetle (Lytta nuttalli).
 Six of Wands
The triumphant Six of Wands represents victory
and success. Our talents have been put to work
in a positive way, and the result is cooperation,
achievement, satisfaction, and accomplished
goals. We face any new endeavors with self-
confidence. We have a better understanding
of our leadership role and the responsibility it
requires. We have seen our actions result in the
manifestation of our highest spiritual ideals.
We have gained a new optimism for the future.
We are moving forward with the power and grace that comes from
being balanced and in harmony with our world.

Garden Tiger Moth

For Review
(Arctia caja)
Only
The boldly patterned Garden Tiger Moth is found throughout Europe,
Asia, and North America. It has a yearlong cycle that begins when the
egg hatches into a caterpillar in August. It then winters in protected
places before entering the pupa stage in spring. The mature moth
emerges in July and August of the following year, and the cycle begins
once again.
In this card the Tiger Moth is youthful but mature. The mature
moth represents the attainment of adulthood, with wings ready to fly
so that it can enter its newly discovered environment. The moth teaches
us to be free of unwanted influences, and it shows us the way to fly
in our own direction with clarity and joy in life. The moth represents
optimism, and it teaches that through a positive attitude, success shall
follow. It is a sensitive creature and symbolizes honoring the integrity
of all those concerned in any given situation. Like the moth, through
our path to maturity we have achieved some level of personal growth
and success.

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Mountain Laurel
(Kalmia latifolia)
The Mountain Laurel is native to the east coast of North America,
ranging from Maine to Florida. It was introduced into Europe as an
ornamental in the eighteenth century. In its native habitat it prefers
rocky slopes and mountainous forests. The Mountain Laurel shrub,
which can grow as tall as twelve feet, blooms in late spring and early
summer and produces a display of distinctive pink flower clusters.
Mountain Laurel forms the wreath that is suspended from the
triumphant wand. A laurel wreath is always a symbol of victory. The
meanings given to Mountain Laurel include victorious results and the
ambition of a hero.

Wilson’s Magnolia
(Magnolia wilsonii)
The magnificent Wilson’s Magnolia is native to China. It is occasionally
introduced into warm climates but is difficult to cultivate and needs a
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highly protected environment. In its native China it is becoming rare
and is threatened by the destruction of habitat. It grows as a shrub or
small tree and is covered with fragrant cup-shaped white flowers from
late spring to early summer.
The moth is perched on a magnolia of splendid beauty. The mag-
nolia has many wonderful symbolic meanings corresponding to the Six
of Wands. It indicates a high-souled character who is noble, dignified,
powerful, and proud. Perseverance and benevolence are also represented
by the magnolia and are key qualities needed for accomplishing this
level of victory and spiritual mastery.
 Seven of Wands
When the Seven of Wands is present, the
message is readiness. We have mastered much,
but more challenges are ahead. We appear to
be on the defensive, but really, we are prepared
and not afraid to face the future. We stand
on high ground with a good perspective. As
a result of the work we have done in the past,
we are in a position of advantage to face future
challenges.
The Seven of Wands appears when we
are ready to confront whatever lies ahead with determination and the
authority that comes from being inspired by higher spiritual goals.
We believe in our cause and are now in a strong position to move into
action. We must be cautious, however, not to allow our passions to over-
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rule our newly developed intuitive sense. As always, even from our high
moral ground, it is still necessary to listen to inner guidance.

Common Meadow Katydid

(Orchelimum vulgare)
The Common Meadow Katydid is a member of the family of crickets
and grasshoppers. It is named for its song, which has a distinctive
“Katy did” melody. It is green or brown in color to mimic branches and
grasses, keeping it hidden from predators. Over 6,400 members of this
insect family are found all over the world.
Symbolically the katydid is on a quest to discover the true self. In
nature it is so well camouflaged that it has become associated with hid-
den truths and inner reality. Because they communicate through song,
katydids and crickets are associated with the art of communication.
They teach us to use the voice wisely as a way to express the desires of
the heart. All these meanings reflect the spiritual position of the Seven
of Wands.

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 Wands    99

English Holly Tree

(Ilex aquifolium)
The English Holly looks very much like its cousin, the American Holly,
but with more berries. Other varieties exist as well, and holly is known
worldwide. Holly branches have beautiful silvery bark and are covered
in glossy, spiny-edged leaves that remain green all year around. Holly
forms glossy red berries in winter, which has led to its association with
the winter solstice.
Holly is the tree of the spiritual warrior. Its symbolic meanings
include dignity, honor, protection, action, and vigilance. Because in
ancient times it was used to make spear shafts, it represents balance
and directness. This meaning comes from the throwing of the spear
to reach its target. It burns very hot, and so holly was used for the fires
that forged weapons. All these uses have led to associations with fire,
strength, and boldness. Remember, however, as with all spiritual quests,
the goal must be in harmony with the needs of others.

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 Eight of Wands
The eight wands in the card are aligned and
pointing downward. Downward movement
indicates energies coming from the Divine and
moving toward establishment in the earthly
realm. Through our philosophical, religious,
and spiritual work, we are now experiencing
this shift more frequently. The downward
alignment also indicates a need to stop for a
refreshing pause. Meditate, reflect, delve into
the silence, and allow these forces time to
integrate within us before beginning new activities or resuming old
ones.
The Eight of Wands is about growth, with much direction from
the divine source. Seeking inner direction gives us the opportunity to
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develop a clearer perspective, seek higher guidance, surrender to inner
callings, and be the observer as personal revelations open to us. As we
learn to recognize this flow of energy, we move more deeply into our
divinely guided life path.

Field Horsetail
(Equisetum arvense)
Many of the plants and flowers presented in this deck are described
as old, but horsetail takes the prize. It represents a family of plants
that began life on earth 400 million years ago. Before the emergence
of flowering plants, horsetails were giants thriving in the prehistoric
world. They are often referred to as “living fossils.”
Our spiritual heritage is as old as humanity. Sadly enough, we have
traveled far from our source, and the return is a long and arduous jour-
ney. Horsetail reminds us of the pilgrimage we make. Watching vigi-
lantly from every corner of the planet, the horsetail has seen it all. It
counsels us to confide in heaven, achieve a quiet nature, and always take
direct action. These are humble commandments from an ancient plant

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that has never forgotten its connection to the Divine and has always
remained deeply rooted in its home, our planet.

Lavender
(Lavandula officinalis)
The Lavender wands figure prominently in the Eight of Wands. As a
matter of fact, there are no other characters, just the grouping of eight
parallel wands. This is a great movement of Lavender. The symbolic
meanings, already presented in the Ace of Wands, will be reviewed,
emphasizing the meanings significant for this card.
Lavender has so many wonderful meanings. Studying the card or
perhaps a field of Lavender, remember that this plant represents joy,
love, protection, devotion, and purification. It is a cleansing plant,
and it is very soothing and renewing. Given the opportunity, we may
see Lavender plants flowing with the movement of the wind. We may
watch the bees as they are drawn to it and as they participate in the
dance of pollination. These scenes speak of the energy of the Eight of
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Wands, which suggests that we return to the source, watch life flow,
and give ourselves some time to be renewed and refreshed.
 Nine of Wands
In the Nine of Wands, eight wands are planted
firmly in an impenetrable wall and the ninth
is held closely, ready for use if necessary. In
looking back at battles won, we may seem
to be a bit battered, but we are still full of
determination and ready to defend creative
endeavors. We are now more certain than ever
that we must follow our own destiny. We are
now aware that we possess the inner strength
and spiritual power to do so.
The Nine of Wands reminds us that after much work and many
trials, we have come out on top, on firm ground, and are ready to delve
more deeply into our creative resources. We are finding our own way
and awakening our individuality. This has not been without its struggles
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and difficulties. We now understand our personal goals more clearly.
We are armed with the knowledge and skills we have gained through
past experiences and by dealing with our inner demons. Possessed with
self-discipline and an inner drive, we see ourselves fully committed and
capable of working toward bettering the world through our chosen
causes.

Jersey Tiger Moth

(Euplagia quadripunctaria)
The Jersey Tiger Moth is a European moth, and its range also extends
into Asia. In the past it was rare to see this moth in England, but recently
this appears to be changing. More and more, throughout England, they
are being seen to much delight. At the time of this writing, it seems
highly probable that a colony has been established, and people in Britain
can look forward to the company of this moth for some time to come.
Some tarot interpretations say that this is the same character as seen
in the Six of Wands, but that the individual is now older and more
mature, having survived many experiences of personal trials and tri-

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umphs as well as gaining a measure of self-awakening. In this deck, on

both of these cards you will notice two different tiger moths with their
own variations.
Unlike most moths the Jersey Tiger Moth flies in the day. It is
said that moths perceive everything with clarity. Flying by day adds to
this symbolic meaning, as this moth has come out into the light—a
symbolic awakening, so to speak.
By the time a moth reaches the winged stage of its life, it is ready to
take flight and explore new realities. The moth shows us how to release
negative influences and, with optimism and a positive outlook, move
forward into personal discovery.

Garden Nasturtium
(Tropaeolum majus)
The Garden Nasturtium, also known as Indian Cress or Monk Cress,
is native to the Andes Mountains of South America. It was given its
Latin name from the Greek word tropaion, which means “trophy.” After
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victory in battle, the Romans hung the enemies’ armor and weapons on
trophy poles. The round leaves of this plant resemble shields and the red
flowers look like the blood-stained helmets, and so it was named.
This directs us naturally into the symbolic meanings of nasturtium.
They include conquest and victory in battle. It is fitting that the moth
is perched on a field of healthy and thriving nasturtium, representing
our victorious position. This striking plant grows in many colors, but
in the card they are red. Symbolically red is the color of courage. It has
taken courage to reach the level of achievement represented by the Nine
of Wands.
 Ten of Wands
The Ten of Wands is oriented to the right,
which indicates moving toward the future.
The wands are bundled together, clutched
tightly, and represent our collected mental and
spiritual possessions. We have integrated a great
deal in our journey through the Wands. Now
we are becoming aware that with knowledge
and inner wisdom comes responsibility. It is
possible we could be overburdened by the labors
of our higher work, and this card may indicate
being overextended in our present position. But with persistence and
determination, and a willingness to release our treasures into the world
for a higher good, we will achieve any goals and complete any task.

ForPileated
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(Dryocopus pileatus)
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest of all the North American
woodpeckers, and it ranges across the continent. It eats mainly insects
that it forages in decaying trees, which it finds by chipping out large
holes with its powerful beak. Woodpeckers keep forests healthy by
controlling carpenter ants and beetles that are destructive to many tree
species. Additionally these large cavities, made for both foraging and
nesting, are later used as nesting sites for many song birds and other
forest dwellers. The woodpecker has an important ecological role and is
vital to the well-being of the forest and other birds.
With all that daily hammering into rotted trees, it is no wonder
the woodpecker symbolizes persistence and determination. This ham-
mering can also represent digging deeply to uncover inner layers of our
psyche, the work we have been about with the suit of Wands. The wood-
pecker symbolizes great balance, stability, inner strength, and learning
to honor the sacred within all life. Symbolically the woodpecker is busy
with divine work.

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 Wands    105

Douglas Fir
(Pseudotsuga menisci)
Douglas Fir is a coniferous evergreen that grows throughout the western
North American continent. It prefers the foothills and subalpine slopes
of the mountainous regions. This tree has always been of great value
to people. It provided food from the inner bark, its crystalline sap was
used like sugar, and the needles were even used as a coffee substitute
in times long past. Other benefits include many medicinal uses. The
rotted trees are smoldered and used to tan hides, and the wood provides
excellent lumber. Clearly this is a giving tree.
Symbolically the fir tree represents achieving great heights and far-
sightedness. It provides us with a clear vision of that which is yet to
come. The lofty presence of the fir also symbolizes clarity, achievement,
strength, resilience, and determination. We can learn a great deal from
connecting with this mighty tree.

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 Page of Wands
The Page of Wands is imbued with a youthful
enthusiasm. Creativity is astir in this young
soul with deep spiritual roots. The Page of
Wands is bursting with a new vision and ready
for adventure. Just a few of the special powers
this Page possesses are intelligence, artistry,
a psychic flair, and freshness. Planning and
researching a project in all its aspects is indeed
wise, but the Page of Wands suggests that it
is also important to channel some exuberant
wonder into the task. Through his example the Page of Wands
demonstrates that by rekindling and harnessing youthful energy, we can
achieve even greater accomplishments.

For(Dendroides
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Canadian Fire Beetle
canadensis)
The Canadian Fire Beetle is widespread throughout North America. It
belongs to the family of beetles known as the fire-colored beetles, with
bright red and orange appendages and dark-colored bodies. But the
most distinctive feature of the Canadian Fire Beetle is its flamboyant
feathery antennae. It is easy to imagine the Page of Wands wearing such
an audacious hat.
Metamorphosis is a symbol common to all beetles because they
make the transformation from the larva stage to the adult. The fire
beetle represents this Page as a young, recently mature adult. Newly dis-
covered wings inspire the young beetle to fly rather than walk, display
its new colors and charm, and trust in the spirit and soar.

Blue-pod Lupine
(Lupinus polyphyllus)
There are as many as 280 species of lupine around the world and about
150 across North America. The seeds are very valuable food for wild

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 Wands    107

birds, but the plants themselves are poisonous to livestock. Lupine is

also popular as a garden plant because of its beautiful, tall, colorful
flowers. This wild species is a striking violet-blue, a deeply spiritual
color. Numerous garden varieties have been developed, resulting in an
array of pastel colors.
The symbolic meaning of lupine is imagination. The Page of Wands
is both creative and imaginative, making lupine the perfect companion
plant for the beetle.

Seven-spotted Ladybug Beetle

(Coccinella septapunctata)
We meet again with the beloved Ladybug Beetle, depicted on all the
Wands and featured in the Ace of Wands. Ladybugs or Ladybird
Beetles, as they are commonly known, are found all over the world.
There are over 5,000 species in existence and more than 450 native
species in North America. The spot patterns vary greatly, but they are
quickly recognized as the endearing little round orange-red beetle.
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The ladybugs in this card are here to point out a new and fresh
approach to life. These beetles are delightful little sprites of creative
energy, flying off of the Page’s magical wand and reminding us not to
take life too seriously. Approach things with youthful enthusiasm and
faith in the process. Watch as miracles come true and our desires come
to fruition.
 Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands is the master of the
unexpected. This card represents a wild, bold,
and free-spirited nature, inspiring us to act
with passion in all we do. There is no holding
back as this Knight charges ahead in mind,
body, and spirit. But all this exuberance can
result in unpredictability, so don’t be surprised
by some challenges that may arise. Be prepared
for a wild ride because this contagious energy
will carry us into new and unexplored territory.
Yet we can be sure that with his well-developed ethical standards, the
Knight of Wands will always keep us on the high moral path.
The Knight of Wands is also reminding us that we must temper
our enthusiasm and spiritual fire with reasoning from cooler heads.
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Harnessing fiery passions is the spiritual work of this Knight. We
can begin by recognizing the need to remain on the leading edge of
creativity and keep our enthusiasm alive while we work to be the master
of our often unrestrained passions.

Major Mitchell Cockatoo

(Lophochroa leadbeateri)
The Major Mitchell Cockatoo, also known as the Pink Cockatoo or
Leadbeaters Cockatoo, is considered one of the most beautiful of them
all. It is native to the arid and semi-arid inland regions of Australia,
where the species has declined due to human encroachment. This bird
requires a wide range for breeding, but the vast woodlands they need to
thrive are slowly declining.
Cockatoos are precocious, energetic, and communicative birds.
They are intelligent, inquisitive, ingenious, bold, and spontaneous.
When observing cockatoos, we never know what surprises they have in
store. Their impressive crests are actually flamboyant communication
tools, which they use very effectively within the flock.

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As well as these qualities relating to the Knight of Wands, other

symbolic meanings include the lighting of our inner fire, emotional
freedom, and unpredictability. These birds represent the freedom of
spirit that can lead to new discoveries and awakening in uncharted
territory.

Great Mullein
(Verbascum thapsus)
Mullein is a biennial, which means it lives for two years. It produces
a cluster of soft, woolly leaves the first year and a tall stalk of yellow
flowers at the end of the second year. Well known to herbalists,
this plant has had many medicinal uses throughout time. One of its
common names is Torch, because the Romans dipped the stalk in suet,
set it afire, and used it as a torch in religious processions.
Symbolic meanings of the mullein include courage and having
a friendly, good nature. These are fitting attributes of the Knight of
Wands, who moves forward boldly and courageously and always acts
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with the best of intentions.
 Queen of Wands
The Queen of Wands is truthful, balanced,
strong, and, above all, attuned to her inner
forces. She is aware that her personal power
flows from her connection to her higher self.
She is a blessing to all within her realm, who
are inspired by her poised, balanced, nurturing,
and generous nature. This Queen has devoted
herself to the welfare of others, and through
her acts she inspires creativity and spirituality
in all. Her presence brings beauty into the
world. By balancing her heart and intellect, she has achieved a high level
of consciousness, and she directs both with inner guidance that she can
access naturally and with endless grace.

For Dilemma
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Orchid Bee
(Euglossa dilemma)
Orchid bees, also known as gold bees, are brightly colored tropical
insects. They occur exclusively in tropical and subtropical regions
of the western hemisphere, ranging from Central America to South
America. There are more than 175 known species. The Dilemma
Orchid Bee is the only one that has established itself in the south-
ern states of North America. As its name implies, it is sustained by
orchids, collecting nectar and pollen from them. Orchid bees are in
the same family as honey bees and bumblebees, all of which are gentle,
nectar-collecting bees.
In ancient Egypt bees symbolized royalty. They represent other
meanings as well, such as possessing the power of concentration, a
quality which is demonstrated by their attention to harvesting tasks.
They perform their work with lightness, agility, and dedication. Bees
are also symbolic of community. Orchid bees are socially conscious,
harvesting the goodness of the orchid for the benefit of family and
community.

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 Wands    111

Copper Queen Orchid

(Orchidaceae)
Orchids are one of the largest families of flowering plants, with over
20,000 species. The largest selection is found in the tropics of South
America, Central America, and Asia. Some species, however, have even
been found within the Arctic Circle. Orchids grow from tuberous
roots, and they often have air roots that intertwine in the tropical forest
canopy, where they climb for the light. Their most striking feature is
the highly prized, exotic, and fragrant blossom they produce.
Such a magnificent flower as this has long been treasured and
sought out by humanity. Many symbolic meanings have been cultivated
around it, including beauty, strength, loyalty, and wisdom. The orchid
has a quiet, rare beauty, as does the Queen of Wands. It possesses an
inherent grace, and by its nature it is very refined and charming. Other
qualities possessed by this Queen and symbolized by the orchid include
a highly spiritual and intuitive character, commitment, and faithfulness.

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 King of Wands
The King of Wands is a visionary and a master
of creativity and intuition. He is fully open to
divine inspiration and accomplishes tasks with
confidence and authority. His causes are artistic
and creative. As the ruler of the Wands, he is the
most innovative of all of the Kings in the deck.
Being very goal-oriented, he can take charge and
make any vision a reality. This King is an inspi-
rational leader and entirely capable of inspiring
and uniting others in worthwhile causes.
When we see this card we must also recognize that it is always
about honesty. The King of Wands rules with spiritual strength and
great integrity. We can trust this passionate, noble King as a role model
for traveling the higher ground as he brings artistic beauty and new
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ideas into manifestation.

American Kestrel
(Falco sparverius)
The American Kestrel is the smallest of the North American falcons.
In the past it was known as the Sparrowhawk, a term that is actually a
misnomer. It was believed to be related to the Eurasian Sparrowhawk,
but this little bird is not a hawk at all and was renamed to take its place
among the falcons. It ranges over all of North America and prefers open
countrysides, where it feeds on small creatures that are pests to crops
and gardens.
The American Kestrel is precise in its action, very swift, and agile.
It is symbolically associated with creativity and intuition. It also teaches
us the control of speed and movement, patience, quick thinking, and
the ability to act at exactly the correct moment. When this falcon sets
its mind to a task, it is fully committed and extremely successful. Its
message is about seeing the big picture, seizing opportunities, and learn-
ing to use our skills successfully.

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 Wands    113

Common Hazel
(Corylus avellana)
Hazel is native to milder climes of the entire Northern Hemisphere, and
it is cultivated extensively for its delicious, edible nuts. Many species,
such as the Common Hazel Tree, are also grown as ornamentals. Its con-
torted branches grow in fascinating corkscrew patterns as it sprawls into
a magnificent tree. Popular names for this hazel tree include Contorta,
Corkscrew Hazelnut, and even Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick.
The Common Hazel has been an inspiration to creative minds for
countless centuries. Many of its symbolic meanings relate to creativ-
ity, particularly poetic and artistic inspiration. The wild, wandering
branches of the tree are believed to awaken inner intuition and insight.
Its higher dimension of energy inspires us to express our creativity
and seek out deeper meaning in life. In many mythologies the hazel
tree is said to be a source of hidden wisdom and a container of ancient
knowledge.
The hazel tree has other meanings related to the King of Wands. It
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is a symbol of authority. Wands and staffs made of hazel were tradition-
ally used by chiefs and rulers. This tree also represents the qualities of
honesty and purity of heart, which are always indicated by the King of
Wands.
For Review Only
 The Swords
Courageously Soaring on Air Currents of the
Mind to Face Duality and Illusion

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 Ace of Swords
The Swords are very direct and focused. This is
obvious immediately with the Ace. The Sword is
a penetrating energy, exemplifying mental clar-
ity cutting through the personality to discover
truth. This challenge requires that we take a
strong position of individuality. It also requires
the use of great focus and concentration.
The Ace of Swords represents awakening
to our intellect and mental abilities. It also
expresses the inner discipline we must develop
for intellectual growth. Penetrating the meaning of the Swords, we will
grow to a new level of focused energy and develop vision and clarity.
The Ace of Swords invites us to step out of life’s illusions.

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Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
(Crotalus adamanteus)
The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake
in North America, sometimes reaching eight feet in length. They
are brown in color with black diamond-shaped scale patterns. This
extremely dangerous rattlesnake is found in the southeastern United
States. It inhabits pine forests and open farmlands. Individuals can live
over 20 years. Populations are declining due to hunting and habitat loss.
For our Swords artistic liberty has been taken with its color, and the
snake is presented as indigo with black diamond patterns. Indigo is the
deep, divine color of the midnight sky. It has long been associated with
great powers of perception and the higher mind. During meditation,
indigo is visualized to help with deep concentration and introspection.
It is considered the symbolic color of self-mastery. Indigo is also associ-
ated with the third-eye chakra, the energy center between the eyes, and
deals with intelligence and psychic power.
The snake has always been a universal symbol of the quest to unveil
the sacred mysteries. It is symbolic of the inner creative forces that allow

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us to access our vitality, ambitions, and dreams. It is also associated with

personal power and intellectual growth.

Indian Lotus
(Nelumbo nucifera)
The Indian Lotus is also known as the Sacred Lotus. This flowering
aquatic plant is a perennial, popular in water gardens. It is the national
flower of both India and Vietnam. An individual lotus plant can live
over a thousand years. The seeds are also viable for over a thousand
years, and recently a thirteen-hundred-year-old seed was germinated
successfully. The seeds, small leaves, and rhizomes are all edible and
highly prized in Asian cuisine.
The opening of the exotic lotus flower has long been symbolic of
the awakening mind. It also symbolizes creation, purity, and wisdom.
The petals open with the sun and close at sunset, guiding us to focus
our attention on the rhythms of life and beckoning us to activate our
inner attunement with nature.
For Review
Mexican Hat
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(Ratibida columnifera)
The Mexican Hat, also known as Prairie Coneflower, is native to the mid-
western region of the United States but has naturalized throughout North
America. It was named because the colorful flower heads resemble tradi-
tional broad-brimmed sombreros. This drought-tolerant plant loves full
sun and is a favorite nectar source for bees and butterflies. Symbolic mean-
ings for this robust plant include accomplishment, strength, and capability.

Cinnabar
The snake is perched on a red crystalline rock called cinnabar, the princi-
ple ore of Mercury. Cinnabar is an abundant mineral, and energetically it
is considered of great value because it aids in the process of self-evaluation.
It is deemed to have a positive nature and is beneficial and protective.
 Two of Swords
The Two of Swords represents a position of calm
preparedness. Blinded to the choices or events
yet to come, the character is poised, perceptive,
and in a state of readiness for whatever lies
ahead. This card also represents facing choices
or challenges with mental clarity and the ability
not to succumb to any emotional reactivity.
From this composed position we have the inner
clarity to remain open and patient. The Two
of Swords imparts the idea of trusting in the
invisible forces at play and remaining balanced and confident.

Great Egret
(Ardea alba)

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The Great Egret ranges all over the world and is also known as the
Common Egret or the Great White Heron. It is a large heron with
all white plumage, a distinctive yellow bill, and black legs. The Great
Egret often breeds in colonies in reedy wetlands that are close to lakes.
These long-legged wading birds have always been highly prized for their
striking white plumage. Populations dwindled dramatically during the
days of plume hats at the turn of the twentieth century, as the birds were
hunted to excess. Fortunately they have recovered in most areas but are
still threatened by habitat loss in many of their breeding grounds.
Egrets and herons often stand motionless, as if in a meditative state.
This symbolizes maintaining balance through focus. They stand in
deep water, which represents the depths within the self that we are chal-
lenged to explore. The deeper we go, the more we will discover.
The egret demonstrates the ability to meditate and study in silence
to find clarity. It is a solitary bird that possesses a silent power, grace, and
agility. It symbolizes self-determination, self-reliance, and looking deeper
into the many aspects of our lives about which we have remained unaware.
It calls us to learn, understand, and develop our own personal rhythm.

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 Swords    119

Hedge or Field Bindweed

(Convolvulus sepium)
The Latin name for this plant, convolvulus, means “to entwine.” It
will indeed entwine itself around anything and everything in its
path, growing in fascinating spirals. Field Bindweed is one of the
most common weeds in North America, and the bindweed family has
many species that are found worldwide. It displays its lovely trumpet-
shaped flowers on spring and summer days when the sun is shining. It
withdraws and closes them on gray and rainy days. This is a common
trait of all the bindweeds.
Bindweed is symbolic of perseverance. Examining the imagery
of this card, it is easy to see that the character has been placed in
a position that will require calm perseverance to resolve. It is the
­entangling bindweed that draws our attention to the necessity of
engaging in contemplative work. Looking more deeply within gives
us the opportunity to unravel the complexities we have encountered.
Hedge Bindweed also represents humility, another important quality
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necessary for clarity to unfold.
 Three of Swords
The Three of Swords penetrates the heart
of illusion. It is our call to see life with
a new, clearer perspective. This can be a
painful process because we must let go of the
attachments that limit us in our journey into
awareness. Some tarot interpretations say the
piercing swords represent the swords of reason
or intellect. Their purpose is to open the heart
to true understanding and clarity of purpose.
Often the forces represented by the Three of
Swords seem to pull us into sadness and self-pity. Rightly understood,
this card is a positive omen, representing the awakening of courage,
truth, discernment, and maturity.

For Purple
Review Passionflower
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(Passiflora incarnata)
The Purple Passionflower is an exotic climbing vine. This species is
native to the southern latitudes of North America, but more than 500
native species of passionflower exist around the world. Passionflower is
found in South America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Inspired
by the beautiful blossoms, horticulturists have developed hundreds
of hybrids, and now passionflower has been successfully adapted for
gardens all over the world.
The striking blossoms of this plant have been interpreted as a sym-
bol of the Savior on the cross. When Spanish explorers came to North
America, they saw symbolism of the crucifixion in these blooms, and so
they named it Passionflower. The fringed corona represented the crown
of thorns, the three stigmas were the nails piercing Christ’s hands and
feet, the five stamens were his wounds, and the ten sepals represented
the Apostles. They could also see the cross in the center of the flower.
With the Three of Swords we face our own crucifixion, piercing
barriers that limit our growth. The passionflower brings to mind

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 Swords    121

the idea that we each possess the potential to release ourselves from
whatever is binding us. Once we rise to the noble spirit that resides
within, we become our own liberators.
Other symbolic meanings of the passionflower, all related to this
one most remarkable idea, include faith and trust in higher powers. The
purple and white hues of this striking flower are also symbolic of purity
and heaven.

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 Four of Swords
The Four of Swords represents a pause in life,
a moment of refreshment and renewal, and a
solitary time of introspection. This time can
be compared to the dormant period that the
seed spends in the ground before it bursts forth
with new growth on its way to maturity. The
swords are put away in resting positions but
remain available should they be needed. This
is a time to access the restorative powers of our
inner being and allow our soul an opportunity
for meditative introspection.

Praying Mantis
(Mantid religiosa)

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The Praying Mantis, also known as the European Mantis, is well
known and widespread throughout the world. They were accidentally
introduced into North America from southern Europe in 1899 aboard
some nursery plants, and they thrived in the eastern United States.
They were immediately recognized as a most beneficial predator. The
mantis then spread throughout the northeastern states, across Canada,
and west to the Pacific Coast.
The Praying Mantis is a solitary creature, and its most common
symbolic interpretation is the power of stillness. The mantis represents
calmness, silence, a time of meditation, and inner reflection. Its lessons
include learning to direct the energy within to empower the body.
The Praying Mantis reveals that now is the time to listen carefully
to our inner stirrings and gain a new awareness of our surroundings.
It is important that we allow ourselves the regenerating power of our
inner resources before we return to any tasks at hand. Following the
example of the mantis, we might take advantage of tools such as prayer,
meditation, or the martial arts. Still the outer mind and go within. This
is the message of the Praying Mantis and the Four of Swords.

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 Swords    123

Northern Red Oak

(Quercus rubra)
The Northern Red Oak is native to much of the eastern United States
and southeastern Canada. It is a fast-growing tree, growing as much
as 20 feet in ten years. At maturity it can reach 100 feet in height. Its
deciduous leaves turn a vibrant deep red in the fall.
The oak, a tree of great strength, has been considered sacred by
almost every culture throughout history. Its many symbolic meanings
include stability, nobility, courage, and independence. Oak is also a tree
of personal protection. The fourth sword is resting on the oak branch,
should it be needed.
Oak roots are said to run as deeply into the ground as the branches
grow into the air, so this tree was believed to be connected to the
Otherworld. For this reason the oak was considered a doorway to the
great mysteries. The Four of Swords beckons us to take time to rest and
renew ourselves with the help of oak’s deep connection to all that is
sacred.
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Lily of the Valley
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(Convallaria majalis)
Lily of the Valley is a small, sweetly scented flower native to Europe.
It is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions and has spread
all over the world. It is commonly featured in many North American
gardens. It has also escaped to the countryside, where it has readily
naturalized. Its interesting step-like pattern of flowers, along a tall stalk,
inspired medieval monks to name the plant “ladder-to-heaven.” Lily of
the Valley, so endearing, has historically appeared in a great deal of art
and literature and is the subject of many legends.
In the Four of Swords, the Lily of the Valley appears in the stained-
glass window panels, framed by three swords at rest. Stained-glass win-
dows are considered symbols of spiritual renewal. Lily of the Valley
represents a return to happiness, perfect purity, and humility.
 Five of Swords
The character in the Five of Swords has just
emerged victoriously from a challenge. We
clearly see the confidence of success and a
regal stature indicating power and control. It
is important to observe this closely. If this is
a superficial victory of the ego self, we must
evaluate whether our personal success has been
achieved by taking advantage of others. If this
is an emerging deeper awareness of the true self,
we have won a genuine victory.
Looking at the cards in their consecutive progression through the
suit of Swords reveals the deeper interpretation. We have just emerged
from our reflective time in the Four of Swords. Through focus, contem-
plation, and surrendering the self, we have emerged the victor. We have
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won a battle with our own inner struggles. Perhaps we have released
long-held beliefs that have not served us well and limited our potential.
The Five of Swords suggests we evaluate our victory and gain insight
from the experience. We are now on an open road with new opportuni-
ties and possibilities ahead.

Northern Goshawk
(Accipiter gentilis)
The Northern Goshawk is native to both Eurasia and North America.
The goshawk inhabits deep mixed woodlands and coniferous forests. It
thrives mostly in old growth habitat, where human encroachment is at a
minimum. The Northern Goshawk is a medium-sized hawk with short,
broad wings for maneuvering through trees. It is mostly seen flying at
low levels. The goshawk is fierce and bold, flying with great speed and
agility as it navigates through dense forests.
The goshawk is symbolic of royalty and leadership. Its red eyes sug-
gest a power and presence of spirit. This bird is very focused, precise in
all it does, and symbolizes the refinement of personal skills. The gos-

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hawk reminds us that our greatest victories come when we are using
keen insight to uncover our personal obstacles, utilizing quiet persis-
tence to meet life’s challenges, and always working to fulfill our soul’s
purpose. Its lessons include moving through life with rhythm and bal-
ancing our actions and thoughts with grace and an open spirit.
The intense focus of the goshawk also suggests a word of caution.
This fierce predator reminds us that with such great personal authority,
we must be aware of how we are influencing others. How will we
interpret the Five of Swords? Once again we must evaluate two aspects
present in this card. Has our victory been at the expense of others, or
are we accomplishing our inner work?

Bay Laurel Wreath

(Laurus nobilis)
Bay Laurel, Sweet Bay, or Laurel are the common names for this tree
that can grow to 40 feet tall. Its small yellow flowers mature in the
autumn to distinctive purplish black berries. The Bay Laurel is native to
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the Mediterranean region. It is the remaining descendant of the laurel
forests that once covered this region in a more humid geological era. It
is now cultivated in mild climates around the world, and it is prized as
a culinary herb and ornamental evergreen.
Bay Laurel has glossy, dark-green, leathery leaves that were used
in classical times to make the victor’s crown of laurel. It was then that
the laurel became symbolic of triumph, victory, honor, success, and
achievement. Additional symbolic descriptions include accomplishment,
perseverance, ambition, and reward of merit.
 Six of Swords
The Six of Swords represents a transition into
a higher state of awareness, a process that
often requires a loss of some kind. We may be
confronted with things that are not serving us
or that we need to see more clearly and face
squarely. Sometimes we have situations in our
lives that we prefer to overlook, thinking that if
we simply ignore them and make no attempt at
resolution, they will somehow vanish through
neglect. This is not the case.
The planted swords represent aspects that are not resolved. We are
now forced to focus our attention on personal issues, work through
them, and finally be free of them. This is an inner exploration that
will elevate us out of life’s drama and into a new level of understand-
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ing. It requires mental courage in the face of emotional upheaval. It is
slow and arduous work. But, with effort, we will make steady progress
away from our difficulties and emerge out of the troubled waters into
harmony.

Western Skink
(Eumeces skiltonianus)
The Western Skink is a very secretive and agile lizard. It thrives in dense
vegetation, where it forages for a variety of insects. The skink ranges
throughout the western states and provinces of North America. The
young skink has a distinctive bright blue tail. If captured by a predator,
the tail will break away and continue to wiggle, distracting the predator
while the skink makes its escape. This skink has lost its tail and is in
despair, an expression of the loss indicated by this card.
Symbolically the lizard represents the ability to let go—more spe-
cifically, to let go of the ego. The lizard suggests that we pay attention
to dreams and visions and listen to subtle messages that bring attention
to our hidden hopes and fears. With a new perspective we can more

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clearly analyze our present situation and move forward with confidence.
Symbolically the lizard is the master of subtle perception.

Indian Pond Lily

(Nuphar polysepala)
The Indian Pond Lily is a member of the water lily family. It ranges
from Alaska to California to as far east as Colorado. It is closely related
to the Yellow Pond Lily of eastern North America. Its round, yellow
flowers emerge from the murky depths of ponds and quiet streams, and
they are attached to roots that are buried deep in the mud below. The
familiar leaf of the pond lily, commonly called a lily pad, is home to
frogs, dragonflies, and other water-loving creatures. Native Americans
dug the rootstock and used it for many medicinal purposes.
In this card the lily pond leaf represents the Water element, which
connects us to our emotions. This card suggests emotional issues that
need to be dealt with through thought and logic. The swords in the
image, the instruments of change, are planted in emotional ground and
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fully visible, where they cannot be ignored. The water lilies are also
symbolic of the mind awakening to new levels of awareness. Arising
from the murky waters, these plants represent difficult emotional energy
that, as it rises higher, begins its transformation into clarity.

Sessile Bellwort
(Uvularia sessilifolia)
Sessile Bellwort is a common woodland wildflower. The flowers hang
in delicate, narrowly-shaped bells that are creamy white in color. It
ranges to the northeastern region of North America, as far south as the
Gulf Coast, and west to the Dakotas. Symbolically bellwort represents
hopelessness. The bedraggled little blossoms suggest the difficulties that
we have been passing through, as we now move into a calmer, more
mindful state.
 Seven of Swords
The Seven of Swords is the card of partial
success. Something in the works is unsettled.
We are in a state of in-between. To our credit
we have accomplished certain things, yet
we will have to return and conquer further
challenges. This situation is represented by the
character heading away with five swords under
wing while looking back at the two swords that
remain planted. This suggests an awareness of
remaining, unresolved aspects. Issues such as
instability, choices yet to be made, or lack of direction are examples of
persistent concerns. The Seven of Swords also warns against deception,
a negative skill that is never justified and will not serve us well.
Examined from the perspective of our spiritual quest, this card tells
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us that we are not yet fully grounded in the new higher consciousness
that we seek. With this in mind it is important to focus on the spiri-
tual mastery that we have gained with the five swords in order to put
our skills to use and bring these aspects into reality. This card suggests
that we make our choices carefully, avoid irrational, impulsive, and mis-
guided action to the best of our ability, and move ahead.

Steller’s Jay
(Cyanocitta stelleri)
The Steller’s Jay is native to western North America and closely related
to the Blue Jay that is found across the rest of the continent. It has a
distinctive black crest on its head and a striking deep-blue body. Stellar’s
Jays live primarily in forested areas at lower elevations and are often
seen at bird feeders during the winter months. They are very vocal and
entertaining.
The key symbolic meaning of the jay is mastering the skills that
we are learning. To do so involves the proper use of personal power
through being present. The jay teaches us to use our power correctly

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and efficiently. A resourceful and adaptable bird, the jay represents great
talent and innate wisdom. The crest on its head links the bird to higher
powers. The jay reminds us that true power must be used with integrity
and balance.
The jay can, however, be deceptive. It often steals food from campers
and nesting materials from other birds. When in the act of thievery,
it makes a great deal of noise to create a chaotic scene, which works
to its advantage. This disruption of energy is how the jay succeeds. It
is sometimes perceived as a negative quality, suggesting the trickery
sometimes indicated by the Seven of Swords.

Trumpet Honeysuckle
(Lonicera sempervirens)
The wild honeysuckle grows all over the world. Trumpet Honeysuckle,
also known as Coral Honeysuckle, is native to the eastern and
southern United States. This climbing vine wraps itself around trees
in dense woodlands and thickets and can reach a height of twelve
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feet. In Britain, the native honeysuckle is also known as Woodbind or
Woodbine because of the way it climbs, clings, and winds its way up the
trees to the higher realms. Honeysuckles are known for their heavenly
fragrance, which attracts pollinating insects and hummingbirds.
The most appropriate symbolism of the honeysuckle, relating to the
Seven of Swords, is its meaning as the pathway to inner knowledge. The
clinging and binding nature of the plant has also led to common sym-
bolic meanings such as the bonds of love, devotion, and protection.
 Eight of Swords
The mind is a ferocious taskmaster. This is the
message implicit in the Eight of Swords. We are
not bound by outside forces but rather by the
immobilization caused by our mental position.
We find ourselves in a situation where the mind
has run away with us and left us in a state of
delusion. We feel fearful, insecure, indecisive,
and vulnerable. The key to understanding this
card is realizing that we are the ones creating
the situation and that we are limited by our
own self-doubt. From a spiritual perspective the Eight of Swords is a call
to release the mind from the ego to allow the higher aspect of divinity
to flow through us and to watch and trust as circumstances change.

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Review
Black Widow Spider
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mactans)
The Black Widow is one the most feared of all spiders. The venom
of the female is very poisonous, but the bite is rarely fatal to humans.
Males do not bite. The name black widow is rightly earned, because
after breeding the female often devours the male. The Black Widow
Spider is easily identified by its sleek black body with distinctive red
markings. It is native to the southern regions of North America.
In many mythologies the spider weaves the web of life. Spiders rep-
resent creative forces, demonstrated by the continual spinning to create
their intricate webs. They remind us to look for new insights that will
release us from our current limitations.
The spider also teaches us to be alert and not get caught in the web
of illusion. Therein lies the risk of being consumed by a spider, sym-
bolically speaking. In reality, we are consumed by our own mental con-
structions, replete with fears and limitations. The spider teaches us to
recognize and understand the depths of illusion and awaken to a higher
reality. Remember, the web we weave is the reality we create.

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Poppy Anemone
(Anemone Coronaria)
There are over 120 species in the Anemone genus of flowers, and they
are found all over the world. They are a garden favorite, growing in
many colors and thriving in many different conditions. The common
name of the anemone is windflower, which comes from the Greek word
anemos, meaning “wind.” This flower is seen in artwork on the walls
of Egyptian tombs, indicating a long and rich history connected to
humanity. It is believed that the vibrant red anemone, pictured in the
Eight of Swords, was brought to English gardens many centuries ago,
either by the Crusaders or wandering clerics and friars.
According to Greek mythology the anemone sprang from
Aphrodite’s tears as she mourned the death of her beloved Adonis, who
was tragically killed while hunting wild boar. This led to the flower’s
symbolic meanings of forsakenness, withered hopes, and estrangement.
Quite often in Britain, wild species of anemone are found growing
around sites where ancient warriors fell in battle. This led to additional
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symbolic meanings for the anemone, which include sickness, illness,
and brevity. All the limitations indicated by the Eight of Swords chal-
lenge us to recognize our shortcomings, confront them, and do our best
to overcome the difficulties they present. In this way we empower our-
selves to rise above any limitation.
 Nine of Swords
The Nine of Swords speaks of the great inner
despair that leads to an awakening. The
character is embroiled in self-pity, denial,
disillusionment, and suffering. The Nine of
Swords calls for us to arouse the personality
from its long-held beliefs. We are often aware
of these limiting beliefs but have refused to do
anything about them.
Now is the time to decide to stop sitting in
sorrow and to stop playing the victim. We can
recognize our denial and face those aspects of ourselves that are limiting
us. We can realize our bondage and wake up from our long sleep. This
is the promising news. The Swords are all aligned and pointing east-
ward, toward the rising sun, like the dawning of the day and awakening
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to a fresh new morning.

Widow Skimmer Dragonfly

(Libellula luctuosa)
The Widow Skimmer is in the large family of dragonflies known as
skimmers. Skimmers are distinguished by brightly colored bodies and
wings with bands or spots. Their wings are also generally shorter than
other types of dragonflies. Widow Skimmers have dark bodies with
yellow stripes, and their clear wings are distinctively marked with large
smoky-colored bands. They are slow-flying dragonflies that inhabit
small ponds, lakes, and marshes in much of North America.
In the Nine of Swords, the dragonfly represents our great poten-
tial for change. Dragonflies live in the mental realm of the air. They
challenge rigid thought patterns and prompt the energy of change. The
shimmering wings of the dragonfly represent the power of Light. The
dragonfly suggests that with commitment to our awakening, we too will
shine with our own true colors. As we contemplate the Nine of Swords,
let us imagine freeing this spirit guide, the dragonfly, from its bondage.

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Belladonna
(Atropa Belladonna)
Belladonna is commonly known as Deadly Nightshade. Its botanical
name was derived from Greek mythology. Its name was taken from one
of the three Fates, Atropos, who cuts the thread of life, just as Deadly
Nightshade would do if ingested. The leaves and berries are extremely
toxic. The name Belladonna comes from Italian and means “fair lady.”
In the past it was used by Italian women to make eye drops because
it enlarged the pupils and made their eyes appear more beautiful.
Symbolically Belladonna represents both falsehood and the ability to
recognize bitter truths.

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 Ten of Swords
At first sight the Ten of Swords is quite
frightening, and it is one of the more disturbing
cards in the deck. But keep in mind that it does
not take ten swords to kill. Some other force is
at play. As with all of the cards in the suit of
Swords, we have been on a journey to liberate
ourselves from the entanglements of the mind.
With the Ten of Swords we have reached
a culmination along the path of our spiritual
journey, and liberation to a new way of living
is at hand. We will emerge with a new perspective as we observe the
death of circumstances that have kept us from our awakening. The key
is to surrender and release mental struggle. Clearly this is the point of
no return to our old thought patterns and ways of being. The Ten of
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Swords demands that we surrender to the dawning of a new day with
grace by giving up the inner struggle allowing ourselves to be released
into a new reality.

Western Tiger Swallowtail Caterpillar

(Papilio rutulus)
The Western Tiger Swallowtail is a common butterfly native to North
America. It is identified by its distinctive yellow wings with black tiger
stripes. Swallowtails have a strong sailing motion when in flight, a
movement that is both peaceful and serene to see. The plump caterpillar
is vibrant green with bright yellow and black eye spots. They are often
seen in trees such as cottonwoods, willows, and aspens, where they feed
on the leaves.
The butterfly is a symbol of transformation, leaving its tree-bound
life behind for a new and liberated life in the skies. The caterpillar rep-
resents the old self. It lives its life crawling on tree branches, surviving
day to day, and unaware that it sits at the threshold of an awakening.
At some point it feels the inner stirring that leads to a readiness to shed

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the old life. That day may be very much like our Ten of Swords, as the
caterpillar surrenders, abandons its old way of life, and begins the work
of building a chrysalis. It surrenders to its destiny and patiently awaits
its awakening as a butterfly.

Trembling Aspen
(Populus tremuloides)
The Trembling Aspen, also known as Quaking Aspen and Mountain
Aspen, is a generous and giving tree. It is home to more than five
hundred species of birds, mammals, insects, and fungi. Its small green
leaves with silver undersides quiver and shimmer with the slightest
breeze, and this is how the tree received its name. Quaking Aspen is
called the “whispering, quivering tree” in folklore.
Being a giving tree, the aspen has great importance in our journey
to rebirth. It is strong, protective, and provides a stable foundation to
those in need. Symbolically the aspen represents focus, awareness, tran-
sition, opportunity, and transformation. The caterpillar has been fed
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and nurtured by this tree on its life journey. If we commune with the
aspen, we too will be nurtured by its spiritual message.
 Page of Swords
The Page of Swords rises above all difficulties.
The character holds a sword high, extending it
into the heavenly realms. This is an indication
of readiness, growth, and a clear vision from
a new perspective. The Page is not yet fully
mature in this new, liberating awareness. The
Page, however, does represent an emergence
from troubled times and being surrounded
by rising positive energies. This card appears
when we have learned to apply our mind with
both insight and clarity. As this new awareness deepens, our own
understanding will now continue to develop and begin to flow.

Firefly
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(Photuris lucicrescens)
The firefly is also known as the lightning bug. There are over 2,000
species found in temperate and tropical climates around the world.
Fireflies produce light by a chemical reaction called bioluminescence.
The light may be yellow, green, or pale red and is emitted by organs on
their lower abdomen. Fireflies are unusual because they can flash their
lights on and off. Other luminous insects glow continuously.
The firefly is a beetle associated with awakening and illumination.
The message presented by the firefly is allowing the Light that is within
to illuminate our lives. With this card, the firefly represents expanding
beyond our limitations so that we experience our intimate connection
with the subtle energies of inner spirit.

American Carrion Beetle

(Necrophila americana)
The American Carrion Beetle lives in North American regions east of
the Rocky Mountains. They lay their eggs on the flesh of dead animals
and decaying vegetation. The larvae, as well as the adults, feed on the

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decomposing matter, recycling it back to the earth. In this way they

function to clean the environment.
Symbolically the carrion beetles are carrying away the old unresolved
issues that have now been released. They carry away and process that
which is lifeless and dead, making way for new growth. Beetles aid in
transformation and in general represent metamorphosis, resurrection,
and rebirth into a new and higher spiritual awareness.

Spring Crocus
(Crocus vernus)
The popular name of this large purple crocus is ‘Remembrance.’ It
is one of the Dutch crocuses and is commonly called Spring Crocus
or Giant Crocus. They are one of the first flowers to appear after a
long winter and announce the coming of spring. They burst forth
in an array of color in an awakening landscape and remind us of the
first earth energies rising. The crocus is symbolic of youthful joy and
exuberance.
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 Knight of Swords
The Knight of Swords is the fastest Knight
in the deck. He has great speed, moves with
dynamic action, and has the mental prowess to
get the job done. The message contained here is
that there is no obstacle too great to overcome.
Showing unrivaled determination and sparing
no effort, he travels the path of truth and cuts
to the heart of all matters. This Knight advises
us to meet challenges head on and take action.
Fear, indecision, and hesitation have no place
in the message presented to us by the Knight of Swords. We are being
called to mount our steed and ride fast and forward.

Greater Roadrunner
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(Geococcyx californianus)
The Greater Roadrunner is a large ground-dwelling bird that streaks
across the desert on long, strong legs. It is often seen racing down roads
and then darting into cover, hence the name roadrunner. Roadrunners
are native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, and they are
also seen as far east as the midwestern states. Most commonly they
inhabit deserts, but roadrunners can also be found in grasslands, open
woodlands, and farmlands.
The symbolic meanings of the roadrunner are speed, mental agility,
and taking action. The roadrunner is so quick it can actually prey upon
rattlesnakes, a feat that can be accomplished by very few creatures. This
bold action reminds us that no obstacle is insurmountable. The crest
on its head represents its quick thinking skills and great mental agility.

Beavertail Cactus
(Opuntia basilaris)
The Beavertail Cactus is a low-spreading prickly pear cactus that
sprawls up to six feet wide. It inhabits dry, rocky slopes in the deserts

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of the southwestern United States. Its grayish-green jointed stems are

wide and flat and resemble the tail of a beaver, from which it takes its
name. It does not have any visible spines, but close inspection will show
very tiny spines set in small pockets. The young fruits, which follow
the blossoms, have always been a food source to Native Americans of
the region.
The symbolic meanings of the cactus include bravery, endurance,
and grandeur. The dynamic Knight of Swords puts these qualities into
play, as this character takes charge of any situation.

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 Queen of Swords
The Queen of Swords epitomizes focused
energy, clear logic, and mental mastery. She
is commanding and direct. Yet she also relies
on divine protection and is very intuitive by
nature. This Queen is a leader, authoritative
and strong, and she knows how to discriminate
between what is true and what is false. We
often find the Queen of Swords working alone,
because the great wisdom she has acquired in
life sets her apart from others. This Queen
exemplifies how to be assertive and in command, yet still act with
sensitivity, intelligence, and in accordance with inner perception.

Common Paper Wasp

For Review
(Polistes humilis)
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Paper wasps are found all around the world. This particular species,
the Common Paper Wasp, is found throughout Australia and is known
to be highly beneficial. Its preferred diet consists of non-native insect
species, which helps with the control of many invasive pests. Actually,
all paper wasps are known to be highly beneficial. They eat the insects
that prey on crops, and they play a key role in pollination as well.
Like the Queen of Swords, the queen paper wasp is mostly a solitary
insect. However, paper wasps are considered to be social wasps since the
queen and workers cooperate to care for the brood and future genera-
tions. Paper wasps are much less aggressive than other wasps and will
only become hostile if their nests are threatened. They have a fierce but
discriminating nature.
Symbolic meanings given to the wasp include concentration,
empowerment, and the skill to use these qualities with great agility.
Wasps and bees represent productivity in all our actions and the ability
to harvest the goodness of life.

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Common Sage
(Salvia officinalis)
Common Sage, also known as Garden Sage, Meadow Sage, and True
Sage, is native to the Mediterranean region but now grows all over
the world. The medicinal and culinary uses of this plant date back
to antiquity. During the Middle Ages a saying arose about the sage:
“Why should a person die when sage grows in the garden?” The
question attests to the high esteem this plant commanded throughout
its rich past. Its Latin name, salvia, means “healthy.” Symbolically, sage
represents wisdom, respect, esteem, virtue, and long life.

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 King of Swords
The King of Swords is highly disciplined and
represents both discrimination and intellectual
prowess. This King sees to the heart of all
matters and rules with a keen sense of justice
and wisdom. He is a truthful, insightful, and
protective leader. His perceptions run deep and
his persona is penetrating, reflecting his great
powers of analysis and concentration. This
King is old and wise and has seen it all during
his long reign over the kingdom of the mind.
Spiritually the King of Swords represents the power of self-mastery and
high levels of inner awareness. He has mastered the ability to transform
thoughts and ideas into reality by using his great analytical skills and
creative powers.
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Northern Raven
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(Corvus corax)
The Common Raven, also known as the Northern Raven, is found
throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Various raven species, however,
are found all over the world. Their favorite habitats include mountainous
regions, rocky coastlines, and the rugged terrain of some deserts. They
love to dwell where they can survey their domain from lofty perches.
Ravens have a lifespan of up to twenty years, making them one of
the longest-lived birds. Records indicate that ravens have coexisted with
humanity for thousands of years. Observation and study have demon-
strated that this bird is extremely clever at problem solving, and we are
now aware of their high degree of intelligence. Ravens also have a long
and prominent role in the myths and legends of indigenous cultures
throughout the world.
Because of its deep jet-black color, the raven has come to represent
the inner mysteries, self-knowledge, and introspection. The raven is a
messenger from the unknown and possesses awareness of the inner light

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that illuminates the true self. In mythology it is believed that the raven
enters the darkness and returns with the light, thereby illuminating the
world.
These extremely intelligent birds are even said to keep the
knowledge of oracles and omens. The raven is all about initiation,
protection, healing, and transformation. This is an ancient bird with
wisdom to share about its long association with humanity. The raven is
a spirit guide, embodying high levels of awareness and inspiring spiritual
awakening.

Western Red Cedar

(Thuja plicata)
The Western Red Cedar is native to the Pacific Northwest region of
North America and has been introduced in the eastern United States,
Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. It now also grows freely in Great
Britain, where it has naturalized. The cedar is a very large tree, reaching
as tall as 230 feet, with a girth sometimes exceeding 13 feet. It has great
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longevity, and some individual trees are known to be well over 1,000
years old.
The Western Red Cedar has a long and rich relationship with indig-
enous cultures. This tree was the focus of an entire way of life in tribal
communities, providing food, shelter, and ceremony. Tools for working
with its wood have been found dating to 8,000 years ago. The cedar
is known as a generous and giving tree and the keeper of ancient wis-
dom. In symbolism the qualities represented by the cedar tree include
strength, longevity, healing, protection, and incorruptible character.
For Review Only
 The Pentacles
Grounding the Energies of Earthly
Manifestation

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 Ace of Pentacles
The Ace of Pentacles depicts new beginnings.
This is an opportunity for a fresh start,
suggesting positive development in the areas of
health, money, work, and material gain. This is
the perfect time to begin new endeavors, start
a creative project, or use hidden talents not yet
explored.
This card also draws our attention to a
deeper mystery that underlies our earthly
activities. The higher meaning of the Ace of
Pentacles is the manifestation of wealth in its many forms through
union with our inner higher forces. The Pentacles are the arena where
we can actually watch with our own eyes as the activity of Spirit mani-
fests within our daily lives. As we focus on our higher goals and ideals,
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remember that by grounding these ideals through physical activities, we
are sharing and giving to the world. Abundance will flow through us
rather than to us, for the benefit of all.

Painted Turtle
(Chrysemys picta)
The Painted Turtle is common throughout North America. It is deep
olive or black, with varying bright red and yellow patterns depending
on the subspecies. Painted Turtles can be found foraging for insects,
small aquatic creatures, fish, and vegetation in slow-moving streams
and rivers, as wells as in marshes. Individuals in this turtle species have
been known to live for over fifty-five years. Fossils show that turtles
have existed on the earth for over 15 million years, making them highly
connected to our planet.
In many cultures the turtle is the oldest symbol of the earth. It is
considered to be the keeper of the storehouse of ancient Earth wisdom.
The slow-moving turtle represents remaining grounded while bringing
our thoughts and actions into physical reality. The turtle also symbol-

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izes self-containment, self-protection, endurance, and longevity. It rep-

resents the idea that we contain within ourselves all the creative tools
needed to manifest richly in our lives. The turtle calls us to awaken to
new opportunities and reminds us of the importance of giving back to
the earth whenever we take something from it.

Trumpet Daffodil
(Narcissus)
The daffodil is a hardy spring flowering bulb that is native to Europe,
North Africa, and Asia. It has spread worldwide and grows in a variety
of shapes and many shades of white or yellow. The Trumpet Daffodil is
one of the largest varieties. Daffodils are widely popular in gardens and
are often naturalized in woodlands and meadows, where they create a
breathtaking display of color.
The daffodil is the inspiration of many songs and verses and is
treasured as a messenger of spring. This association has led to sym-
bolic meanings of rebirth, renewal, and new beginnings. The daffodil
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also represents joy, sunshine, respect, and high regard. It represents the
Pentacles and will be with us throughout the suit.

Obsidian
Obsidian is a lustrous black mineral that is created by volcanic forces
deep within the earth. It is actually glass that is formed by the rapid
cooling of volcanic rock. Ancient peoples believed that wearing this
stone brought them closer to the power of the earth. Obsidian was
also used to create tools and arrowheads because it can be honed to an
extremely sharp edge.
Symbolically obsidian is believed to bring clarity to internal visions.
In ancient Mexico it was used for divination. Obsidian is also consid-
ered protective against negativity, and it is used as a tool to encourage
manifestation and transformation.
 Two of Pentacles
The Two of Pentacles is all about balance.
Juggling the pentacles illustrates the need to
be flexible in our perspective so that we act in
ways that are most beneficial to all. Observing
a subtler meaning suggested in this card, we see
the interplay of water and earth. This suggests
that emotions and other unconscious influ-
ences are present. It is our task to understand
the emotional and physical forces at work. By
acting with careful consideration and proceed-
ing in a balanced way, we will master any situation.
Divinely speaking we are presented with the idea of duality. This
operates as a fundamental principle in the physical world. We might
observe how the forces of nature are in constant motion, striving to
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create a balance between polarities in the world of form. It is a worth-
while task to learn how to flow with the energies that work behind
the scene, act accordingly, and strive to achieve a balanced state.

American Flamingo
(Phoenicopterus ruber)
The American Flamingo is identified by its striking pink coloration,
black flight feathers, and black markings on its beak. The pink in its
feathers is derived from ingesting organisms found in its feeding habi-
tat. American Flamingos breed and thrive in Central America. They
range as far north as Florida, where they reside in coastal mudflats
and lagoons. The symbolism of the flamingo includes balance and
understanding how to maintain a state of balance, graceful motion,
and migration. The flamingo also represents the ability to master
life’s deep lessons as they emerge from emotional waters.

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 Pentacles    149

Broadleaf Cattail
(Typha latifolia)
The Broadleaf Cattail is a wetland plant that provides habitat to
many marsh animals and birds. It is one of the most common plants
in shallow and slow-moving waters, marshes, and ponds. It spreads by
creeping roots called rhizomes, which must always be wet. Cattails
grow quickly and can form dense patches in a short amount of time,
sometimes taking over entire ponds in their quest for water. They can
actually turn ponds into swamps, and then into dry land, in an effort
to quench their insatiable thirst. The cattail symbolizes strong Earth
energy, balance, and stability, as well as peace and prosperity.

English Ivy
(Hedera helix)
This Old-World vine covers the walls of castles and cottages alike and
is widespread throughout its native range from Europe to western
Asia. A ground cover that grows with great vigor and climbs by aerial
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roots, it travels up walls, trees, rocks, fences, and anything in its path.
The English Ivy is host to a plethora of wildlife. The berries are eaten
by more than a dozen species of birds. At least 70 species of nectar-
feeding insects are known to be attracted to its flowers. A much beloved
plant, English Ivy has traveled to gardens everywhere. It is, however, an
opportunist and can become invasive if not kept under control.
The ability of the ivy to climb and expand represents flowing
harmoniously through life and its challenges. Ivy grows in a spiral
pattern, which symbolizes development, expansion, and rebirth in
the search for self. Other symbolic meanings include determination,
patience, renewal, and opportunity.
 Three of Pentacles
The key message in the Three of Pentacles is
understanding the nobility of work. This card
reminds us to recognize the importance of
concentration, focus, and commitment in even
the simplest of tasks. It is the integration of
higher principles into the ordinary that brings
to life our soul’s purpose. We should consider
it a spiritual exercise to put our full attention
to that which is given us to do. Hidden inner
forces are cultivated when we root ourselves in
a noble work ethic. The Three of Pentacles suggests that we watch our
lives unfold as we focus our energy and inner drive to create some-
thing lofty and beautiful from the opportunities and materials we
are given.
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Carpenter Ant
(Camponotus pennsylvanicus)
There are over a thousand species of carpenter ants worldwide. These
large ants hollow out dead, damp wood to build nests that consist of
extensive passageways. They dwell in dead tree trunks, fallen logs,
and wooden structures. As a part of nature, they play a vital role in
the breaking down of forest matter, returning wood to earth. But they
do not eat wood. Their favorite food is dead insects, which they either
consume or take to the nest to share.
Ants are amazing little creatures. They are strong, industrious,
and totally dedicated to tasks. Their work ethic epitomizes commit-
ment to the greater good of the community. Legendary meanings
associated with the ant include discipline, determination, strength,
stamina, orderliness, and patience. Their message is simple, elegant,
and very powerful.

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Kalahari Amaryllis
(Hippeastrum)
Hippeastrum, known colloquially as amaryllis despite being unrelated
to the African genus Amaryllis, is a plant that is well grounded in
the earth. The seeds are quite heavy, and in nature amaryllis tends to
spread in compact patches since the wind cannot carry the heavy seeds
that later form into large bulbs. This plant is native to South America.
Cultivation throughout the world began in the eighteenth century.
Relocation to other climates met with limited success because it cannot
withstand any frost. It has naturalized most successfully in coastal
regions of western North America. When potted and grown indoors,
amaryllis produces beautiful blooms during the winter months, making
it a popular Christmas plant. Its name comes from the Greek word
amarysso, which means “to sparkle.”
In the Three of Pentacles, the Kalahari Amaryllis appears as pillars
and the flowers create a platform for the pentacles. This represents the
creation of a strong foundation for our efforts, one that is rooted in a
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personal commitment to our work. Other symbolic meanings given to
the amaryllis include pride, beauty, splendor, and recognition for a job
well done.
 Four of Pentacles
The character in the Four of Pentacles has
gained the security that material wealth and
success offer. Unfortunately, with the passage
of time, greed, miserliness, hoarding, and self-
absorption have taken their toll. Wealth and
achievement have come at a price. Clearly the
diligent efforts to manifest material wealth
have led to isolation from others and bondage
to narrow perception.
Let us explore the true meaning of wealth
and success. Clinging to material values can entrap us in the illusory
cycle of wanting to achieve more, have more, and be more. There is noth-
ing wrong with earthly riches, but when our desire for them becomes
overpowering we lose our connection to our inner work. Spiritually we
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need to recognize wealth as an inner quality and an attitude, which
enables the universe to flow back to us as we give generously and from
the heart.

Sacred Scarab
(Scarabaeus sacer)
The dung beetle collects manure and decaying matter and rolls it
into neat, tidy balls. It will then roll the ball to a favorable location,
dig a large chamber in the ground, and bury the ball to hide it for
safekeeping. The beetle will either eat the ball or lay its eggs in it. Time
and again, the beetle will repeat this process until all of its energy is
spent. Observing the unusual behavior of this beetle, it is easy to grasp
its symbolic meanings of persistence, resurgence, grounding earthly
energies, material gain, and hoarding.
Scarabaeus sacer, the most famous of all the dung beetles, is native
to the Mediterranean region. In Egypt it was revered as sacred, which is
why its common name is the Sacred Scarab. Ancient Egyptians watched
the scarab beetle as it rolled its dung ball across the ground and related

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 Pentacles    153

the beetle to their sun god, Khepri, who moved the sun through the
sky. Thus the scarab beetle came to be associated with the rising sun
and the Egyptian creation myth.

Red Clover
(Trifolium pratense)
Red Clover is a species native to Eurasia and naturalized throughout
most of North America. It is a short-lived perennial that thrives in
pastures, meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It has the distinctive
three leaflets of all clovers and dark-pink flower heads. The flowers
possess a high-quality nectar, and clover is often planted as a bee crop.
Clover is also grown as a soil enriching crop because it adds nitrogen to
the soil.
Since ancient times clover has been celebrated as a magical plant.
The famous four-leaf clover is believed to be a symbol of good luck to
this day. Other symbolic meanings include industriousness, success,
and diligence.
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 Five of Pentacles
The Five of Pentacles is wrapped in woe. These
characters are lost in their despair. They fail
to see the luminous church window right
beside them, offering opportunities for renewal
and positive change. The lighted window is
a beacon. It is there to remind us to seek the
light within and stop relying on the material
world for our fulfillment.
The Five of Pentacles prompts us to stop
seeking pity and sympathy and dwelling on our
troubles. Rather, it heralds a call for us to turn our gaze from the outer
world. Through attention and focus to our inner potential, we can over-
come our outworn desperation and misery. We can awaken to the prom-
ise of the indwelling spirit, which is the master of all manifestation.
ForRed-breasted
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Nuthatch
(Sitta canadensis)
The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a small, acrobatic bird that makes
its home in the northern subalpine forests of North America. Its
abbreviated, high-pitched call is often compared to a toy tin horn. This
little red-breasted, bluish-gray bird nests in dead wood and lives on a
diet of insects and seeds. When watching the nuthatch in its forest
habitat or at our feeders, we will often see it foraging upside down.
This ability has led to its most important symbolic meaning, which
is the capacity to view things with a new, fresh, and unconventional
perspective. This special power suggests the task at hand when the Five
of Pentacles appears.
The nuthatch is also a symbol of bravery and reminds us that it is
time to take courage, be sharp, and be aware of new solutions within our
reach. The nuthatch represents mental or emotional rebuilding because
this little bird is a master of the spiritual quest. The source of this mean-
ing is demonstrated by its amazing agility and ingenuity as it climbs up,

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down, and around tree trunks, branches, and twigs. Remarkably it even
walks on the underside of these limbs. The nuthatch tells us it is time
to look at our life in a new way.

Garden Snowdrop
(Galanthus nivalis)
The Garden Snowdrop is a small flower that emerges in late winter,
sometimes right through the snow. It is the first flower to appear each
year, even before the crocus, and in southern climates it often grows all
winter long. The Garden Snowdrop is native to most of Europe and
has been introduced and naturalized everywhere. The flower looks like
drops of milk hanging from a stem, which probably led to its Latin
name, galanthus, meaning “milk-white flower.” Symbolic meanings for
this beautiful, delicate flower include consolation, hope, expectancy,
and faith in times of adversity.

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 Six of Pentacles
Observing the Six of Pentacles, it is easy to
recognize balance as its key message. Balance
is a powerful force when put into action.
The Six of Pentacles indicates the abundance
and wealth we have acquired through hard
work and our own initiative. As a result it is
time to thoughtfully balance our actions by
expressing gratitude through generosity to
others, humanitarianism, and good judgment
in all our deeds.
We are now in a position to learn the value of giving and of sharing
our wealth with others. True sharing, however, may not always mean
sharing our worldly goods. It is also important to recognize and honor
the emotional needs of those around us. By observing more deeply the
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needs of others, we will learn a great deal about the sharing process.
The Six of Pentacles encourages us to explore the balance between giv-
ing and receiving.
This card can also represent the opportunity to achieve balance
between intellectual and emotional forces within ourselves. If we can
find balance in these aspects of our personality, we will then become
aware of the powerful role that balance plays in our successes and
achievements.

Giant Silk Moth

(Rothschildia hesperus)
The family of silk moths known as Saturniidae is found worldwide and
contains over a thousand species. These are the world’s largest and most
spectacular moths. The Giant Silk Moth, native to South America, is
a striking moth, rich brown in color with translucent patches on its
wings. In some parts of the world these moths are cultivated for the
large cocoons they spin, which are used to produce a coarse silk.
Symbolically the silk moth represents balancing hard work and

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activity with calmness and tranquility. This moth teaches us when to

let go and when to cling, lessons relevant to our emotional, intellectual,
and physical well-being. The silk moth expresses the arts of gathering
and harvesting, using strength or softness, and the balance of taking
and giving. Moths also represent transformation because of their fas-
cinating growth stages known as metamorphosis. Because moths are
often active at night, their transformation is symbolic of unconscious
progress or changes we make unknowingly.

Bamboo
(Bambuseae)
Bamboo is the largest member of the grass family and one of the fastest
growing plants on earth. Under the right conditions, they can grow as
much as eight feet in one day. They grow in diverse climates but are
most commonly found in their Asian habitat, where they have long
been harvested for building materials and as a food source. Bamboo is
also the major component in the diet of the Giant Panda and a food
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source for gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants.
Bamboo is a symbol of perfect balance and strength. It also rep-
resents prosperity, growth, and flexibility. Moving with the wind, it
stands tall in the most adverse conditions. Bamboo teaches the qualities
of integrity and flexibility.

Pipsissewa
(Chimaphila umbellata)
Also known as Prince’s Pine, Pipsissewa is a little evergreen perennial
with glossy leaves and rosy-pink flowers. It is native to the northern
regions of North America and Europe. Pipsissewa has many medicinal
uses that were known to indigenous people and early settlers. The name
comes from the Cree word pipsisikweu, meaning “it-breaks-into-small-
pieces.” It was believed that the plant had the medicinal power to break
up kidney stones. Symbolically it represents money.
 Seven of Pentacles
The Seven of Pentacles is about enjoying the
fruits of our labors. The work has been hard
and demanding, but we have put our drive and
energies into the challenge and we have accom-
plished a great deal. We have often had to over-
come difficulties and always managed to refocus
our energies. Now it is finally time to harvest
the fruits of our efforts. It is time to stop and
give ourselves credit for a job well done before
moving on to the next stage of any activity.
Looking inwardly the Seven of Pentacles is a contemplative card
that reminds us to replenish the soul. It is good to stop periodically to
collect our energies and look with satisfaction at our accomplishments.
It is important to allow a time for regeneration. We will then have a
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fresh outlook with which to embrace new ideas and activities. Or we
will be ready to continue our chosen work with renewed energy and
enthusiasm.

Northern Oriole
(Icterus galbula)
The Northern Oriole ranges throughout North America. It was once
referred to as the Baltimore Oriole in the east and the Bullock’s Oriole
in the west, implying two distinct species. Some people still use these
distinctions for this bird. Orioles are commonly found in open forests,
wooded riverbanks, orchards, and in parks and suburbs. This bird builds
a distinctive nest that is considered to be a work of art. It is shaped like
a pouch and hangs down from the underside of branches. Typically it is
woven out of any plant and animal materials the birds can find.
Orioles are masters at weaving, an ability that relates to the symbol-
ism of effectively using all the available resources. They also represent
positive energy, peace, and tranquility. Orioles bring to us a renewed
sense of joy in life. The masterful oriole reminds us to pause and replen-

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ish our inner resources as we reflect on our successes and nurture our
dreams after a long endeavor.

Fox Grape
(Vitis labrusca)
This species of red grape is the parent plant of many North American
hybrid varieties, including the famous Concord Grape. It is believed
to have been noted by explorers, who saw it growing wild along the
shorelines of North America dating as far back as the eleventh century.
Although there was no one to document the plant until the eighteenth
century, naturalists know this wild grape thrived here long before
Europeans came to the continent.
Grapes are rich, full of goodness, and represent the bounty of the
harvest. Other symbolic descriptions include abundance, money, fertil-
ity, and fulfillment. Evidence of wine residue in ceramic containers sug-
gests that humanity has been cultivating grapes for at least 8,000 years.
Clearly since ancient days the grape has been regarded as a source and
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symbol of the fruit and bounty of the earth.
 Eight of Pentacles
The message of hard work emerges again with
the Eight of Pentacles. The appearance of this
card points to our dedication to the work that
has captured our attention and commitment.
Through discipline and focus we have done
our very best to hone our skills, and our
achievements reveal great attention to detail.
We execute our tasks with great purpose and
determination, and in the process we have
learned to harness our energies and master
our skills. The dedication we express is evident in our own personal
success, our acquisition of wealth, and the contribution we make to our
community.
This serious commitment to our work has also opened our aware-
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ness to the activity of the hidden forces of matter, mind, and energy. By
directing our attention to these forces as we work with our own mas-
tery, we may achieve a deeper understanding of the universe as it creates
its infinite patterns of manifestation.

Eurasian Skylark
(Alauda arvensis)
The Eurasian Skylark is a nondescript, small brown bird that is at
home in open farmland and heath. It is native to Europe, Asia, and
northern Africa. This lark is also seen on rare occasions along the
North American Pacific Coast and in western Alaska. It is famous
for its incredible, melodious song, which is impeccably executed while
in flight at heights of 150 feet or more. The song may last two or
three minutes while the male hovers in the air, attempting to attract
its mate.
Reverence for the singing abilities of this bird has led to the belief
that the skylark sings at the gates of heaven and announces the coming
of the day. For this reason the bird became known as a gateway between

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heaven and earth, and the song of the skylark was deemed the song of
perfection. The skylark is also a symbol of boundless energy, hope, good
fortune, and creativity. Like the skylark the Eight of Pentacles repre-
sents achieving mastery and pursuing our endeavors with joy.

Clematis ‘Barbara Jackman’

(Clematis jackmanii)
The clematis is a vigorously climbing woody plant, native to most
of the temperate regions of the world. The majority of the largely
flowered, popular garden varieties have come to us from Japan and
China. ‘Barbara Jackman’ is a beautiful purple-blue color with touches
of magenta. It produces large blooms with eight petals on each flower,
keeping with the numeric theme of our card. Clematis are symbolic of
ingenuity, cleverness, and intellectual talents.

Smoky Quartz Crystal

Pure quartz crystals are clear, but crystals can form in a variety of
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colors. Smoky quartz ranges in color from brown to black. Exposure
to natural radiation is believed to cause its color. Fine smoky quartz
is most commonly found in Scotland, Switzerland, Brazil, and the
United States.
As a healing tool smoky quartz is believed to increase creativity and
draw energy to the physical body. It creates a foundation from which
spirit can manifest in the physical. Connecting with smoky quartz
instills in us a sense of pride and responsibility and encourages us to
seek a high quality of life as we walk the earth.
 Nine of Pentacles
With the Nine of Pentacles, we bring our
accomplishments to the level of prosperity,
security, and fulfillment. We have entered a
time of comfortable circumstances. The Nine
of Pentacles invites us to enjoy this period of
stability and expansion. We have achieved
a secure foundation of accumulated wealth,
allowing us the freedom to pursue things about
which we are passionate. The Nine of Pentacles
speaks of success, self-reliance, personal
direction, confidence, and personal satisfaction with the life path we
have demonstrated by expanding our creative powers.

African Spurred Tortoise

For Review
(Geochelone sulcata)
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The African Spurred Tortoise is also called the Sulcata Tortoise or
the Grooved Tortoise. It is the third largest tortoise on the planet. It
is native to the southern region of the African Sahara Desert, where it
digs huge, deep burrows in the ground to escape the heat of the day. At
maturity the tortoise can reach two or three feet in length and weigh
100 to 200 pounds. With a lifespan of 50 to 150 years, the tortoise is
one of the longest-lived creatures on the planet. The Sulcata Tortoise is
intelligent, outgoing, quite tame, and very friendly.
The tortoise symbolizes feminine energy and represents stability
and grounding. It carries its home on its back. This symbolizes the
understanding that true stability comes from a deep strength that we
cultivate within ourselves. The tortoise is an ancient, long-lived creature
and is considered to be highly connected to the earth. It is self-reliant
and self-determined, and it demonstrates great wisdom as it acts confi-
dently and with great repose.

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European Peacock Butterfly

(Inachis io)
The European Peacock Butterfly is native to Europe, Asia, and is also
found throughout the British Isles. It is at home in woods, pastures,
meadows, gardens, and parks. This striking butterfly is a luxurious
rusty color, with hints of red and eye spots of blue, black, and yellow.
The distinctive eye spots disguise the butterfly and confuse predators.
The butterfly’s most common symbolism is metamorphosis, because
it emerges from the drab cocoon as a creature of great beauty. For this
reason it also symbolizes grace and elegance. The mature butterfly flut-
ters through life in harmony and perfect balance. Along with these
meanings it is also known to represent spiritual abundance and learning
to express beauty in the world.

Garden Strawberry
(Fragaria ananassa)
The low-growing Garden Strawberry is an expansive perennial. It
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spreads by roots and runners that travel across the garden bed and root
in new and inviting places. Some strawberries are grown as ornamentals,
but most often they are cherished for their delicious sweet fruit. Modern
species can produce fruit for six months or more, even all year in warm
climates.
The strawberry is symbolic of fertility, growth, and sensuality.
This makes it the perfect symbol of the riches depicted in the Nine of
Pentacles, which is the card of wealth and prosperity. The strawberry
symbolizes excellence, love, luck, and good fortune. The lush fruit por-
trays the overflowing of abundance.
 Ten of Pentacles
The Ten of Pentacles represents fulfillment and
success. It is the story of the enrichment we have
achieved in both the inner and outer dimensions
of our lives. All of the previous experiences of
the Pentacles have led us to a great insight repre-
sented by this card. We now know that it is our
rich inner qualities, which we have cultivated,
that are our true treasures. This wisdom is the
foundation of a happy and fulfilled life.
Key to the abundance expressed by the
Ten of Pentacles is the understanding of community, friendship, and
cooperation. We have learned the importance of relationships and
sharing as essential to our material prosperity. We are now experiencing
balance and harmony with friends and family. The message of the Ten
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of Pentacles is the key that unlocks our worldly wealth and reveals to us
our spiritual treasures.

THE THREE SISTERS

Corn
(Zea mays),
Beans
(Phaseolus),
Squash
(Cucurbita)
The Three Sisters is a traditional Native American garden that has existed
for centuries. Corn, beans, and squash are the three sisters growing
together in a harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship. Each plays
a crucial role in the success of the garden. The Three Sisters are planted
together in a large mound. They thrive joyfully through community and
cooperation, and each is an integral member of the whole. The following
is a brief account of their story. For gardeners, much more information is
available about how to plant a garden using this sustainable system.

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Corn is the oldest sister. She grows tall in the center of the mound
and produces pollen that attracts many beneficial pollinating insects.
The stalks serve as poles for the beans to climb.
Squash is the next sister. She spreads broad leaves over the mound,
keeping out weeds and shading the roots of her sisters to keep them cool
from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Her large blanket of leaves
also helps to retain water in the soil.
Bean is the third sister. Her vines stabilize the corn and help the
stalks remain erect in any winds. Most importantly, beans convert the
sun’s energy into nitrogen, and she adds this important element to the
soil for the enrichment of the others.
Each of these plants has a significant symbolic meaning in the Ten
of Pentacles. Symbolically corn represents the harvest as a reward for
work well done. It also represents nourishment, riches, abundance, and
a sense of fulfillment. Squash is a symbol of bounty and enrichment.
Beans symbolize the ability to follow the sun, reach for the sky, and
achieve new heights. Like all vines, beans also represent friendship.
For Common
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Honey Bee
(Apis mellifera)
The Common Honey Bee is also known as the Western or European
Honey Bee. In their evolution and migration across the planet, honey
bees have learned to adapt to climates all over the world by synchronizing
their breeding cycles with the blooming of local flora. Observing such
amazing adaptations in nature serves to remind us to act in harmony
with the totality of our world.
Honey bees represent observing and honoring our social networks.
They also symbolize wisdom, productivity, prosperity, and purity of the
soul. The geometric pattern of the cells in the hive is symbolic of perfect
order, stability, creative excellence, and sharing from the heart. Honey is a
rare and natural food made without destroying any life. This reminds us
to incorporate our spiritual gifts into all our actions so that the outcome
will always be for the betterment of all life and our extended kinship.
 Page of Pentacles
The Page of Pentacles is a gifted soul living
on the cusp of new ideas. This card represents
the beginning of new adventures, which will
take our creativity to new levels and enable us
to devote ourselves to new projects. Through
our insightful openness to the planet, we have
become deeply aware of our connection to the
natural world. The Page encourages us to let
this newfound affinity for nature influence all
of our decisions.
The Page of Pentacles has grown through experience and now
understands the importance of connection to the community and the
relationships within it. This level of understanding includes personal
dedication to the welfare of others. The Page of Pentacles moves for-
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ward with sincerity, friendliness, thoughtfulness, high ideals, and a love
for the adventure of life.

Green Tiger Beetle

(Cicindela campestris)
Green Tiger Beetles are the largest group of tiger beetles and are found
all over the earth. They thrive in sunny, open areas with dry conditions,
such as beaches, sand dunes, and grasslands. They are one of the most
common beetles in Great Britain, where they also inhabit heathland
and moors. Tiger beetles are deemed to be the fastest and most agile of
all beetles, covering the ground swiftly on long, slender legs. This beetle
is a predator and survives on a diet of other insects, which it can easily
outrun. It is considered beneficial to gardens because it devours a wide
range of harmful insects but does no damage to crops.
Because it emerges from a larval stage, the beetle is generally a
symbol of fresh new beginnings. The striking iridescent green color and
its resourceful hunting prowess are distinctive traits of the tiger beetle.
These characteristics indicate a vibrant nature. Because it benefits

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the garden, the tiger beetle also represents attributes of community-

mindedness and cooperation. Other symbolic meanings of the beetle
include earthiness, attuning to nature, having a free-spirited attitude,
and the ability to take the initiative.

Purple Coneflower
(Echinacea purpurea)
Purple Coneflower is native to the eastern and midwestern regions
of North America. It blooms from spring through summer and is a
favorite host of bees and butterflies. Prized by herbalists and gardeners
alike, this plant is held in high regard for its medicinal properties as
well as its beauty.
Purple Coneflower has many medicinal uses and is valued as an
excellent tonic for the immune system. In the nineteenth century,
doctors used the rhizome as an antiseptic and to purify the blood.
Indigenous people used coneflower for a wide range of ailments, and
healers would always have this herb near at hand. The symbolic mean-
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ings of the coneflower emerged from its healing properties and include
accomplishment, strength, immunity, sociability, liveliness, and exuding
life energy.
 Knight of Pentacles
Responsibility and dedication to hard work
are the key messages presented by the Knight
of Pentacles. He accepts responsibility openly
and reliably. In the Knight of Pentacles we
observe the skills of industriousness, structure,
organization, and bringing forward a practical
side that always gets the job done. Maintaining
traditions is important to him. Using tried and
true methods comes naturally. This Knight is
not a trend setter but rather suggests that we
work with what we have and what we know before delving into new
strategies to complete any task.
The Knight of Pentacles may seem materialistic and lacking in
imagination, but the truth is that this Knight feels the great weight of
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those who rely upon him. He takes responsibility very seriously in his
desire to uphold and serve family, friends, and community. The danger
is in losing touch with the inner, true sense of power while working
within such a materialistic reality.

Varied Thrush
(Ixoreus naevius)
The Varied Thrush is a heavy, robust bird that is native to western
North America and ranges from Alaska to California. It is at home in
dense, old conifer forests, where it forages the shaded forest floor for
earthworms, insects, and berries. The thrush is very much an earthy,
grounded bird.
This dark and handsome bird possesses a simple nature and
expresses great loyalty by mating for life. It is defensive and protective
of its home during the nesting season. Symbolically the thrush repre-
sents being called to a higher purpose. All of these exemplary qualities
are also present in the Knight of Pentacles, who is always motivated by
purposeful activities and faithful to his own high standards of conduct.

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Common Garlic
(Allium sativum)
Garlic is a member of the Allium genus. It is a cousin to the onion,
leek, chive, and shallot. The most commonly marketed garlic is native
to central Asia and is now naturalized all over the world. Wild garlic of
various species grows on all continents. During this plant’s long history
it has always been greatly treasured for its medicinal and culinary uses.
The earthly treasure is the large, bulbous root that grows below the
ground.
Throughout time, garlic has long been a generous and faithful friend
to humanity. Its many medicinal attributes have been documented as far
back as the Egyptian dynasties, and its history dates back 7,000 years.
Symbolically garlic has been assigned many meanings related to its
value. It is believed to inspire courage, increase strength, and heighten
stamina. Other symbolic meanings are protection, patience, good for-
tune, and prosperity.

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 Queen of Pentacles
Opulence surrounds the Queen of Pentacles. She
is fully aware of the bounties of the earth and
the value of being in harmony with the natural
world around her. Through creativity and con-
nection to the Divine, the Queen of Pentacles
has attracted worldly abundance. This gracious
Queen lives compassionately and lovingly from
the riches of her inner awareness. She fills the
world with contentment, caring, happiness, and
beauty. Above all, the Queen of Pentacles radi-
ates motherly energy. Guided by her deep understanding of others, she
lovingly shares the wealth and knowledge of the Divine Mother.

Golden Northern Bumblebee

For Review
(Bombus fervidus)
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There are known to be over 250 species of bumblebees, located mostly
in the Northern Hemisphere. They live in forest clearings and open
areas where wildflowers are abundant. Bumblebees are active in gardens
and always seen surrounded by flowers. These bees are vital pollinators,
and for this reason they are symbolic of fertility and productivity.
Bumblebees represent concentration, empowerment, and productiv-
ity in life. They are always observed busy at their task of pollinating,
moving from flower to flower with great agility. It is said that they har-
vest the honey of life and understand the importance of sharing and
nurturing community. The earthy bumblebee symbolizes serving oth-
ers, gathering riches, and celebrating life to the fullest.

Scarlet Daylily ‘Red Rim’

(Hemerocallis hybrid )
The ‘Red Rim’ Daylily is a lovely scarlet variety of the perennial daylily
that produces flowers all summer long. But the flowers rarely last more
than twenty-four hours, which explains the name daylily. It is well

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known to gardeners as a bold, vigorously flowering plant that works

well in borders and for naturalizing.
The list of symbolic meanings given to the daylily is extensive.
People generally feel better when they are around this plant, which has
led to its symbolism as nurturing, motherly, and caring. In China it is
the flower symbol for mother. Scarlet lilies represent dreams, aspirations
of the high soul, and fine breeding. In general lilies also symbolize maj-
esty, purity, sweetness, and protection.

Northern Blue Violet

(Viola septentrionalis)
The Northern Blue Violet, also known as the Northern Woodland
Violet, is native to the northern regions of the American continent.
It is a sure sign of spring when it emerges in open woodlands. This
flower prefers the warmth of sunny days and the comfort of moist, well-
drained soils. The delicate, endearing violet symbolizes love, faithful-
ness, humility, and virtue.
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Sphagnum Moss
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(Sphagnum squarrosum)
Sphagnum Moss is commonly known as Shaggy Peat Moss. It is a mem-
ber of the genus Sphagnum, which contains over a hundred species.
These amazing plants grow like a dense carpet, and their cellular struc-
ture can hold sixteen to twenty times their weight in water. Even parts
of the plant that have died can hold water. The moss spreads, form-
ing dense peatlands, or bogs that provide a wet habitat for water-loving
flora such as sedges, shrubs, orchids, and carnivorous plants. Moss is
symbolic of maternal love and charity, probably because it provides such
a unique habitat in which many other plants thrive.
 King of Pentacles
The King of Pentacles is deeply grounded and
rules the earthly realm, with all of its riches and
rewards. Hard work, perseverance, and great
enterprise have brought him to this position
of material mastery. Also key to his success is
this King’s recognition of the importance of
dedication to spiritual discipline. He respects
and upholds the sacredness of the earth, honors
the importance of the sacred in all endeavors,
and maintains a high ethical standard. He
always acts according to his most noble intentions and principles.
Only a diligent, disciplined individual can manifest fulfillment at this
level. A lifetime of work and service clearly illustrates that this King is
dedicated to his most sacredly held spiritual vision.
For Review
Blue Grouse
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(Dendragapus obscurus)
The Blue Grouse is a large grouse native to the coastal regions and Rocky
Mountains of North America. It lives in mixed forests, enjoying a diet
of seeds, berries, and insects. Mating rituals of the grouse are distinctive.
The male raises its chest feathers in a colorful display, flutters its wings,
and drags them on the ground, while traveling in short spiraling flights.
This performance is specifically designed to impress the female.
Relating to its mating rituals, much of the symbolism of the grouse
is about rhythm and dance. It performs the dance of creation, moving in
a sacred spiral. The spiral is an ancient symbol of birth and rebirth. The
dance is a marking of sacred space, and this territorial bird represents
protectiveness and paternal strength.
The grouse is believed to be one of the oldest visionaries and
symbolizes great skill in using personal power. It encourages us to be
aware of the energies we send into the world and demonstrates the
ability to observe and understand how they spiral back to us. The grouse

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lives the rhythm and cycles of nature and teaches us to harmonize with
the earth. Its many lessons include personal fulfillment, moving with
purpose, and dancing vibrantly as we journey through life.

Common Blackberry
(Rubus fruticosus)
The Common Blackberry plant has a perennial root system. Although
the canes die off each year, the roots live on and produce new canes laden
with lush, edible berries. This trailing plant spirals around anything
it can find if it is not controlled. Many consider it invasive because,
once established, the powerful roots run deep and the plant will soon
emerge everywhere. Blackberries grow worldwide, are highly valued as
an excellent food source, and are an integral part of the ecosystem.
The most common symbolic meanings of the blackberry are money
and protection, which relate to their historical value as food. The wind-
ing vines represent expansion, fertility, and bounty. The blackberry also
represents connection and great depth of character, ideas suggested by
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its deeply running root system.

American Elm Tree

(Ulmus americana)
The American Elm Tree, also known as the White Elm or Water Elm,
is native to eastern North America. It is an extremely hardy tree that
can withstand the harshest growing conditions. The small, wing-shaped
seeds are dispersed on the wind and often become established where
they land, in habitats such as rich farmland, waterways, and riverbanks.
The elm is a tree of great strength and is associated with Earth
energy. It is symbolic of being well grounded. The wood of the elm has
an interlocking grain, making it almost impossible to split, a quality
that leads us to the meanings of strong will and stability. These quali-
ties are inherent in the King of Pentacles.
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 CLASSIC
TAROT

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CARD
SPREADS
 Introduction

T o query the tarot, cards are shuffled and then arranged face
down in a pattern known as a spread. There are many tarot
spreads, ranging from simple to complex, depending on the
depth to which the questioner wishes to analyze an issue. Just a few
traditional layouts, which have been in practical use for centuries, are
included here.
Questioning and interpreting a spread can span the full range of
human experience, including relationships, family, career, business,
finances, and other everyday encounters and decisions. Deeper exploration
helps us uncover psychological aspects of the personality that may need
transforming, encouraging, or overcoming. Questions posed from our
heartfelt, deepest intentions often reveal the spiritual guidance we seek.
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Many tarot enthusiasts create their own spreads, which can focus
on a variety of topics. Delving further into the world of tarot will reveal
many interesting arrangements, all worthy of investigation. With prac-
tice, one becomes more adept at this ancient art. It is good to work
with the spreads for which you feel an affinity, and many believe the
best readings are those we do for ourselves. As the keepers of our own
hidden truths, we can use the tarot to unlock the inner keys that will
encourage our lives to flower.
After composing the question, it is important to focus one’s energy.
Meditate quietly upon the question before beginning to work with the
cards. The cards are then shuffled, drawn randomly one at a time, and
laid face down in a specific pattern. Each position has a significant
meaning that contributes to the overall interpretation.
The following tarot spreads are classic layouts, useful for all levels of
reading including just getting started.

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 One Card Draw
People often find it extremely meaningful to draw just one card from
the tarot deck every day. Drawing a card each morning can set a direc-
tion for contemplation as your day progresses. It is also a good way to
become familiar with all the characters in the deck and their many
layers of meaning. It is an excellent exercise for people who are just
beginning.
Take a moment to become quiet and poised. Clear the mind of
extraneous chatter and let your thoughts drift away until the mind is
quiet. Shuffle the cards in any manner that is comfortable and then
spread the cards out before you. Select and draw the card that attracts
your attention. This is your card for the day.
Meditate on its meaning, and let this message come back to you
while going about your affairs. See what insights and clarity may
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surface. Keep a diary of the cards that appear each day and see if you
can detect an emerging pattern. This may deepen your understanding
of the events you encounter in your experience.

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 Three Card Spread
The Three Card Spread is simple and elegant. Reading left to right, the
cards usually signify past, present, and future. They can also represent
body, mind, and spirit, a useful perspective for exploring personal devel-
opment issues. This spread is also very useful for asking simple, straight-
forward questions when you are interested in the possible outcome of a
specific situation.
Remember to become quiet and poised, letting go of the thinking
process and centering your mind. Pose your question in the quiet space
you have created. After shuffling, lay the cards face down three in a
row. Now turn the cards over and briefly study the three together. Then
proceed to explore the meanings of each card.
The positions may represent the three aspects suggested here or
any three perspectives you wish to bring to the situation. This is a very
popular spread because it allows creativity and can be personalized in
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any fashion to meet your needs.

Past Present Future

Card 1: Past
The first card represents conditions from the past that are influencing
the situation.

Card 2: Present
The middle card is the present position. It reflects the current state of
affairs, including any emotions, beliefs, outside influences, and other
aspects of the situation.

Card 3: Future
The third and final card represents future possibilities and suggests the
potential outcome.
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 Horseshoe Spread or the
Seven Card Spread
The horseshoe layout is a fairly simple and easy spread to use. It brings
seven cards into play. Each position has a distinct meaning, making
the spread easy to interpret. Meditate quietly on the question in mind.
After shuffling, begin with the top left and lay seven cards face down
in a half circle, creating the shape of a horseshoe.
Turn the cards face up and take some time to study the whole lay-
out. After contemplating the overall spread and becoming aware of its
tone, it is time to delve into the meaning of each card. Remember that
each position has a relationship to the others. Developing skill at read-
ing the cards includes developing the ability to find meaning in the
interplay of each position.

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Card 1: The Past

This card reveals the influence the past has had on the issue in question.

Card 2: The Present

This card reveals events, circumstances, emotions, mental positions, and
feelings that all may be influencing the issue at the present time.

Card 3: Hidden influences

There may be forces in action that remain unseen. This card offers
insight into unrevealed or overlooked influences.

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180    Classic Tarot Card Spreads

Card 4: Obstacles
This card reveals the challenges that must be met and overcome. These
are the obstacles to progress. Whether they are physical, mental, or
emotional, they are key to resolving the situation.

Card 5: Surroundings
This card reveals the influences of people close to the issue, such as
family, friends, and coworkers. It also reflects environmental influences
of home or workplace.

Card 6: Advice
This card suggests a best course of action. It is not the only strategy. It
may reveal the path with the most positive outcome.

Card 7: Outcome
The final conclusion suggested by this card is the most likely outcome.
The assumption here is that the action suggested in Card 6 is followed.
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 Celtic Cross Spread or the
Ten Card Spread
The Celtic Cross Spread is one of the oldest and most widely used lay-
outs. The common interpretations are presented here, but variations
have developed over the years. The Celtic Cross contains ten cards,
making it a more complicated spread than the others. Still, it is not hard
to master and will lend depth and power to any reading.

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Card 1: Querent
This card represents the person asking the question or the issue
confronting that person.

Card 2: Cross Card

This is the card that crosses the querent. It represents immediate opposing
forces. These are the obsacles that challenge the person and the situation.

Card 3: Unconscious Influences

This card reveals the unconscious factors and hidden root causes that
influence the situation. It often represents thoughts and feelings from
the past, as well as influential aspirations. It is referred to as “that which
is above you.”
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182    Classic Tarot Card Spreads

Card 4: Underlying Past

This card represents the past events that form the foundation of the
issue. It sheds light on how events in the past have created the situation.
It is referred to as “that which is beneath you.”

Card 5: Recent Past

This card represents recent events that have had an influence on the
situation. These influences are now passing away. It is referred to as
“that which is behind you.”

Card 6: Near Future

This card speaks of the influence of future events, new influences, and
people appearing in the near future who will affect the outcome. It is
referred to as “that which is before you.”

Card 7: Yourself
This card reflects your attitude and perceptions as they relate to the
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current issue. It tells much about the situation, because you have played
an integral part in its creation and will play a key role in its resolution.

Card 8: Environment
This is the card of outside influences. It reveals the influences that
surround you, such as family, friends, and home or work environment.
The influence of these factors may be either negative or positive.

Card 9: Hopes and Fears

This card reveals the hopes, fears, and desires that are part of your
attachment to the situation. These may sometimes be secret wishes or
expectations that you have not even recognized in yourself.

Card 10: Outcome

This final card indicates the most likely outcome.
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