Astrology
Astrology is the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial objects. Astrology has been dated to at least the 2nd millennium BCE, and has its roots in calendrical systems used to predict seasonal shifts and to interpret celestial cycles as signs of divine communications. Many cultures have attached importance to astronomical events, and some such as the Hindus, Chinese, and the Mayan developed elaborate systems for predicting terrestrial events from celestial observations. Western astrology, one of the oldest astrological systems still in use, can trace its roots to 19th–17th century BCE Mesopotamia, from which it spread to Ancient Greece, Rome, and eventually Central and Western Europe. Astrology consists of a number of belief systems that hold that there is a relationship between astronomical phenomena and events or descriptions of personality in the human world.
Planets and their corresponding zodiac signs:
Major arcana cards: You will notice that some major arcana cards represent a planet and a zodiac sign. A major arcana card can represent both a planet and a zodiac symbol. It can also represent multiple zodiac signs or multiple planets, as well as the sun or the moon. To completely understand the card you must understand its basic symbology, as well as its multiple astrological associations. For example, the magician symbolizes Mercury and Virgo. Which means that it is represented by heavy earth signs, but also as the magician, it represents all of the elements. The fool represents Aquarians, Uranus and Aries. Which means that astrologically it is represented by both fire and air, as well as the interpretations that go along with the symbology of the fool.
0 – Fool – 0
1 Magician – I
Astrological Association –
Mercury: planet of communication, study, knowledge, and intellect. Element of earth. The ability to control the world around you, and access to the knowledge and tools needed to succeed. Also represented by Virgo.
2 High Priestess - II
Astrological Association –
Pisces The High Priestess represents the sun sign of Pisces. Pisceans are connected with spirituality and psychic abilities. They are dreamers who often appear to be far away on another plane of existence. Their challenge is to maintain their spiritual gifts whilst remaining and functioning in the physical. The real world can often appear harsh to Pisceans. They need to find balance between the spiritual and the physical.
3 Empress - III
Astrological Association - The Empress is associated with the zodiac sign Libra, an air sign associated with equality, balance, judgment, creativity, fertility, and justice.
4 Emperor - IV
Astrological Association: The Emperor is associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, a Water sign associated with sensuality, secretiveness, rebellion, solitude, arrogance, intense emotion, imagination, and psychic ability.
5 Hierophant - V
Astrological Association: Taurus is the sign that represents the hierophant. The Hierophant is about bringing spirituality down to Earth, where it can be understood and accessed in a real, tangible way. It represents our immortality, aligning with our mortality. It is our spiritual teacher and our reminder that everything is connected. Similarly, Taurus is a grounded, Earth sign who appreciates substance, communication and spiritual growth.
6 The Lovers - VI
Astrological association: Gemini
7 - The Chariot - VII
Astrological association: Cancer
8 - Strength - VIII
Astrological association: Leo
9 Hermit - IX
Astrological association: Virgo
10 Wheel of Fortune - X
11 Justice - XI
Astrological association: Libra
12 The Hanged Man - XII
13 Death - XIII
Astrological association: Scorpio
14 Temperance - XIV
Astrological association: Sagittarius
15 Devil – XV
Astrological association: Capricorn
16 The Tower - XVI
17 The Star XVII
Astrological association: Aquarius
18 The Moon - XVIII
Astrological association: Pisces
19 The Sun - XIX
20 Judgement - XX
The major arcana and astrology: The major arcana cards are defined and interpreted based on their astrological association, element, and symbology. To truly understand the major arcana you must understand their astrology. Their astrological association will help you to understand their element.
Astrological Association –
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Uranus: The planet of , eccentricity, rebellion, adventure, change, revolution risk and unpredictability. Uranus brings with it a new way of looking at things, and its approach is best met with an expanded consciousness. Originality, inventions, computers, cutting-edge technologies and future events are all ruled by this planet. Uranus sees no need for the status quo, preferring instead to break with tradition and create a new mold. This planet represents rebellion, revolution, dictators, and an autonomous state and free will. Freedom and creativity are important to this planet. Lastly, in keeping with its sudden, sometimes violent and often unexpected manner, Uranus rules earthquakes and other natural disasters. It takes Uranus 84 years to complete its trip around the zodiac. It is an androgynous energy and rules Aquarius and the Eleventh House.
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Aries: In the western tropical zodiac, Aries season begins at the Vernal Equinox, representing the yearly rebirth of the sun in the Northern Hemisphere, and the renewal of growth at the beginning of Spring. It begins on March 21 and ends on April 19. The Aries archetype is bursting with youthful enthusiasm, linked to the vital force of life reawakening after the long winter. The Ram’s affinity for inspiration, impulsivity, and assertiveness are kindled in the fire element. In Egyptian astronomy, the Ram’s association continued through the sun god Amon-Ra, who had a human form and a ram’s head. Amon-Ra ruled over fertility and creativity, vital forces that set Spring and regeneration in motion. In Greek mythology, the Ram saved Phrixus and Helle, whose golden fleece became the prize in the story of Jason and the Argonauts. The name Aries is derived from Ares, the Greek god of war.
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Aquarius: Aquarians are visionaries, progressive souls who love to spend time thinking about how things can be better. They are also quick to engage others in this process, which is why they have so many friends and acquaintances. Making the world a better place is a collaborative effort for Aquarians.
21 The World - XXI