There are many aspects that contribute to the tarot card meanings. In the last article, the numerological values were discussed. The elemental aspects of the cards are another factor that plays in the tarot card meanings.
There are four basic elements; fire, air, water, and earth.
Fire is considered a life force; change and action. It is considered an active element. In astrology, fire associates with the signs of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. In the tarot, fire associates with the suit of Wands.
Air is intellectual, dealing with communications and dilemmas. It is considered an active element. In astrology, air associates with the signs of Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. In the tarot, air associates with the suit of Swords.
Water represents emotions; love, hate, and despair. It is considered a passive element. In astrology, water associates with the signs of Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. In tarot, water associates with the suit of cups.
Earth represents the stabilities of our lives; jobs, careers, and ambitions. It is considered a passive element. In astrology, earth associates with the signs of Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. In the tarot, earth associates with the suit of pentacles.
When the elements combine, there are reactions. The results range from complimenting to intensifying. Most of the time, the elements respond in a logical manner.
For instance, when you combine the elements of air and fire, naturally the air intensifies the fire. There is another result that should be examined. If the air is strong enough, and the fire is small, the air can overcome the fire and blow it out. When studying the elemental effect of the tarot, consider all possibilities. Here’s an overview of the elements and their reactions to one another.
Fire/air – strengthen
Fire/water – weaken
Fire/earth – compliment
Air/water – strengthen
Air/earth – weaken
Water/earth – compliment
When an element is combined with itself, the effect is doubled.
You will find that others will analyze these elements and their effects in many different ways. What has been discussed here seems to be the most common practice.
Below is a list of the card’s elemental values.
Fool-0 Air
Magician-1 Air
Priestess-2 Water
Empress-3 Earth
Emperor-4 Fire
Hierophant-5 Earth
Lovers-6 Air
Chariot-7 Water
Strength-8 Fire
Hermit-9 Earth
Wheel-10 Fire
Justice-11 Air
Hanged Man-12 Water
Death-13 Water
Temperance-14 Fire
Devil-15 Earth
Tower-16 Fire
Star-17 Air
Moon-18 Water
Sun-19 Fire
Judgement-20 Fire
World-21 Earth
Wands Fire
Sword Air
Cups Water
Pentacles Earth
Also see: Numerology, Symbolism
2 comments:
This is very interesting. I wouldn't have assoicated Scorpio with water. I'm a scorpio! What are you?
Sagittarius.
I've worked with astrology in the past, but never really studied enough to know each sign's characteristics. When I was working with astrology, I did many natal charts. It's amazing how much one can learn about someone or oneself through the positions of the planets.
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