Thoth – Rider-Waite

VIII – Tet – Libra – Snake

Objectivity of the Universe, Diplomacy, Balance, and Karma

Adjustment (Justice in the Rider-Waite tradition, which also numbers the card as XI) corresponds to the Hebrew Letter of Tet, which represents the benevolent potential of pregnancy and God’s presence everywhere through EinSof. The letter Tet also represents the ability to judge things properly (a key component of the card of Adjustment/Justice), and means in Hebrew either snake or bed. As a bed, this letter represents the union of man and woman through sex before God, and therefore the woman satisfied, another key part of Adjustment. Adjustment is the dance of the woman in which she revels in God’s glory, and her dance with another human satisfies her completely. As a snake, this letter represents temptation and the ability to resist it. It also reminds us that God is present everywhere, even in the snake; remember Moses’ staff. The pictograph of this letter resembles a snake in a basket, reminding us that we can keep our temptations under control, and must maintain balance.

Balance is the key to this card, who astrological equivalent is Libra, the scales. It is the Sun Sign representing interpersonal relationships in an abstract sense; essentially, the art of diplomacy. Adjustment has this connotation as well, and its airy qualities go even further,as Adjustment is associated with the idea of karma, and represents the order of the universe as seen through action and reaction. The Emperor represents order through structure, imposed from above, while this card represents the universe’s natural tendency to compensate for extreme actions; balancing good with bad, and light with dark. This card then, represents also the impassive objectivity of the universe, and its utmost honesty. It also symbolizes righteousness and the dance of the universe. Going back to Jewish mysticism, this card represents God’s presence everywhere (hence the righteousness), and then also of the prevalence of love everywhere; love is law.

The Rider-Waite art shows a figure upon a throne wielding the sword of Justice and the scales of balance, exuding impartiality and balance. The Thoth art also contains a large scale, with a masked woman (an impartial one, as her face is not able to be seen) standing between the two sides of it, also bearing the sword of justice, but held downward instead of upward. Her image is nearly symmetrical, with only the colors of some of the spheres surrounding her changing, indicating the constant adjustment to keep the universe balanced, similar in some ways to the idea of Two of Disks (though Art also has this meaning).

On the tree of life, Adjustment is the connection between the Sefirot of Geburah (Destabilizing Motion) and Tiphareth (Balance and Conscious Harmony; Experience). This is an extremely appropriate positioning, as this card represents in many ways managed motion (constant adjustment) to bring about balance and harmony to the universe (to Tiphareth).

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the role of diplomacy, balance, and impartiality and objectivity in one’s life. It asks you to examine ideals of justice and honesty in your life, and also warns you to watch out for the consequences of your actions, as it reminds you that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Reversed, this card’s energies are blocked or twisted somehow; perhaps balance cannot be achieved do to the structure of the world, or you just can’t notice the balancing effect. Perhaps one’s diplomacy is not up to snuff, or someone you think is impartial isn’t in reality – or maybe a woman you know isn’t satisfied; maybe yourself.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

VII – Chet – Cancer – Life

Conquest, Salvation, Progress, and Vitality

The Chariot corresponds to the Hebrew letter of Chet, the Hebrew letter of life. It represents both the life of God and the life of God reflected in the human soul; that light which fills one with energy and vigor. Chet is the pulsating hearbeat. Its form is also that of the letters Vav and Zayin joined, representing spending time in a community or the light of God as reflected in others. Since both Vav and Zayin also represent various forms of light, the letter Chet also can be said to represent light in its entirety. The Chariot as a reflection of this, then, exuding vitality and glorious light. This is the card of Caesar the Conqueror, and similarly to him, also represents moving forward (like the wheels of a chariot). The pictograph of Chet resembles a wall or fence, indicating a strength and fierce desire to defend (the Chariot’s wards).

The card of the Chariot, then, is filled with vitality and energy, shining with light. He is the savior and the conqueror, sweeping away the old and corrupt and replacing it with the new and progressive. He is an agent of fate, sweeping across the land to bring (hopefully) positive change to the world. The Chariot is also very strong-willed and focused, obsessed with conquering and dominating everything that stands in his way. He is a hero, helping others through his glorious feats, and bringing life and energy to the world. He carries the future in his arms (see the Thoth art), and himself has a sort of divine balance and is blessed by the Gods (see the sphinxes before the Chariot in the both illustrations); this card is also the card of Herakles. Both the Rider-Waite and Thoth cards show a confident, assured, armoured man in a chariot, moving forward inexorably on its wheels, yet pausing for a moment to look over their conquests. Their wheels represent the constant movement of time and fate, and the certain changes and progress that will come with time. The Chariot represents also hard control; using force to dominate others.

The Chariot’s astrological equivalent is, strangely enough, Cancer (as seen on the head of the man in the Thoth art); the symbol of caring and nourishment. This association reminds us that the Chariot’s will and domination is not one-dimensional; the Chariot’s conquest is not for personal gain, but rather because it truly believes that it can help protect and care for others (look at Caesar’s relation to his troops). Cancer still, however, represents a focus on the personal aspects of one’s life, and so the Chariot’s conquest might just be to comfort itself; the people might not really need its guidance, but the Chariot itself thinks that they do.

In the Tree of Life, the Chariot is the path between the Sefirot of Binah and Chesed. He represents the understanding and duality of existence (Binah) causing destabilizing motion (Geburah). This motion, however, is controlled by the strong will of the Chariot, as he conquers in order to reshape and recreate the world to help progress society and help the people. He understands exactly what it is he’s doing, and so has no problem with toppling stability and replacing it with understanding and giving it new potential.

In a reading, the Chariot asks you to examine the role of dominating relationships in your life, as well as progress. Have you conquered some new skill? Have you made a large acquisition? Are you at the top of your game? How do you use your energy? Have you faced down others in order to help those you care about? Reversed, this card’s energies are twisted or blocked somehow; perhaps their is conquest without progress, or progress without conquest. Are you really doing what’s best for those you represent?

Thoth – Rider-Waite

VI – Zayin – Gemini – Sword

Love, Union, Marriage, and Potential

The Lovers corresponds to the Hebrew Letter Zayin, which resembles a crowned Vav. This symbolizes the light of God (which came from Vav) returning back to heaven. While the Hierophant brings the light from God down, the Lovers reflect that light back up, making use of the Hierophant’s wisdom. The two-part nature of the letter Zayin (the Vav and Crown) represent the human spirit coming into fulfillment, using the light to make themselves better – through love. The letter also represents the woman fulfilling God’s creation by consummating man; the old definition of a “valorous” woman. Since, in the sequence of Hebrew Letters, the initial Creation (Man) has already been mentioned, the crowning of man is the addition of woman to stand by his side (I would like to point out here that I do not in the slightest believe in this inequality of man and woman; I am merely reflecting the original meanings of the letter Zayin). So then, this letter symbolizes the union of man and woman, and their ability to hold the divine light of God. This idea is best expressed by a line from Les Miserables: “To love another person is to see the face of god.”

The original pictograph of the letter Zayin symbolizes a sword, and the meaning of the word Zayin also reflects this. However, the word Zayin is derived from an older world meaning something akin to sustenance, and so is slightly paradoxical. This letter, then, represents the impossible: the light of God being improved by its association with mankind. The sword also is used to help sustain people, and to protect them from harm. This duality of sustaining and defense make up much of the relationship between two lovers, as each partner will defend and nourish the other.

Gemini is the astrological equivalent of the Lovers. Oddly, Gemini is one of the Sun Signs associated with Air, and Gemini specifically the realm of the rational intellectual. The Sign of Gemini also indicates a desire to make social connections – such as that of lovers. Gemini is also one of the mutable signs, meaning that it adapts; and what is love but constant adaptation to another? The emphasis of this card is on personal fulfillment; each lover seeks to satisfy him or herself by satisfying the other. Gemini also corresponds to the twins Castor and Pollux, and to the idea of twins in general: such as Cain and Abel.

Another name for the Lovers is the Brothers, specifically Cain and Abel, who are seen in the Thoth art below the bride and groom, crossing their cup and sword. This card represents very close intimacy, not just romantic love. The story of Cain and Abel also reminds us that intimacy is not without its dangers, and that great jealousy can spring from the closest of connections. In terms of its connection with romantic love, this card represents the formal, institutionalized aspect of it for the most part: that of marriage. The Thoth art emphasizes this, with its portrayal of an elaborate ceremony between two royals, presided over by the Hermit (who in his own card watches over the seed of potential). The man and woman are of different races and houses, and so serve not only to unify themselves, but others as well, emphasizing ideas of unity. This is not to say that there is no love at all, because there is; Eros appears above the Hermit’s head, his arrow pointed down at the couple.

The Rider-Waite art is similar, but less ornate; a naked man and woman stand at opposite ends of the card, looking at one another with open arms, while an angel above (the Hermit in the Thoth art) blessing the union. This card emphasizes the emotional aspect of this card rather than the aspect of unity that the Thoth art does. There is a reminder in this card also of the dangers of love, in the Serpent of temptation behind the woman.

This card, then, represents love and union most obviously, as well as intimacy and marriage. It also symbolizes potential, sex, and ego. On the Tree of Life, the Lovers are the path between Binah (Understanding) and Tiphareth (Experience), representing the understanding of the nature of God’s light leading one into a harmonious central balance. Binah also represents duality and the feminine, and the addition of the female into the mix balances out man, and leads to happiness and experience: Tiphareth.

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the relationships in your life, as well as any feelings of love or intimacy you may have. How is your love life? What role has marriage or close companionship played in your life? Reversed, this card’s energies are hidden or twisted somehow; perhaps the marriage or union in your life was not a good one, or the love is not true.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

V – Vav – Taurus – Hook

Induction, Education, Search for Knowledge, and Connection

The Hierophant, the sixth Major Arcana, corresponds to the Hebre letter of Vav, symbolizing the line that God drew from the heavenly realms to the finite space that were to become the mortal realms. It represents the connection between the two realms, and the common threads that bind everything together. It represents the strength of the Pillar of Truth and the constant interaction between God and his creations. The letter is a connection. The original pictographic form of the letter is that of a tent-peg, which holds together the structure of the tend, and the word Vav means hook, again emphasizing holding things together.

The emphasis is very appropriate for the Hierophant, for he represents the bonds of the community that tie everyone together. He is responsible for the induction of others into society, and for the rituals that bind the community and make it one. He represents also the powerful force of formalized religion, such as the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages, with provided legitimacy, education, and unity. The Hierophant is also the gateway and key to acceptance; he is the spiritual leader who decides how a society should be, and controls all of the formalities, initiation, and education of others in the society.

He also serves as a teacher, but of a different nature than the prophesying Magus or the seer-like Priestess; he is the formalized schoolteacher who educates people in how to live their lives and how to properly behave. He also represents a scholar, on a quest to discover the Truth; he Illuminates what is unknown in his search for Knowledge, which he then uses to educate his society.

His astrological equivalent is the Sun Sign of Taurus, an Earthy sign concerned with manifestation and productivity. He maintains the balance of power by managing the formalities of the community; he is concerned with preserving and sustaining the status quo. He helps the individual realize their own place in the greater whole; he represents the individual’s understanding that they are only part of a larger picture.

The Hierophant’s Rider-Waite card shows him in his aspect as inductor of the uninitiated, performing a ceremony to allow two new members to be inducted into his order. Below him are a pair of crossed keys, symbolizing that he holds the keys to knowledge. In the Thoth art, he is seated similarly, and is surrounded by the images of the four animals, and holds the key of Knowledge in his left hand. His right hand beckons you closer, welcoming the reader into the ranks of the initiated, and giving a blessing and benediction.

In the Tree of Life, the Hierophant is the path between Chokmah (Original Harmony) and Chesed (Stability). Essentially, the Hierophant interprets the harmony of God (the light represented by the letter Vav) and brings it to his followers, allowing for the stability of Chesed to become manifest. He uses the light of God to make the world a better place.

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the role of formal education and teaching in your life, as well as what roles your community (and your acceptance into said community) have played. Reversed, this card’s energies are hidden or twisted somehow; perhaps your induction was just for show, or your education has been lacking.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

IV – Hei – Aries – Identity

Virility, Order, Authority, and Continuity

The Emperor corresponds to the Hebrew letter of Hei in most traditions; Aleister Crowley disagrees and attributes the letter Tzaddi to the Emperor and changes the position of the Arcana on the Tree of Life, but I do not personally subscribe to this interpretation. The letter Hei symbolizes revelation and the giving of one’s identity; to me, this letter represents then the revelation of identity. The original pictograph of this letter shows a person with their hands on the air, hinting at the idea of fullness of the human spirit, a large part of which is identity and how this identity is expressed. The letter also represents God’s creative expression and his actions in ordering the universe. The Emperor himself is a bringer of justice, using his power to order the universe so that all get what they deserve, in a way paralleling the creative acts of God. The Emperor is also strong and confident, with a clear sense of identity that he expresses through his power and actions; he is the center of the universe.

Astrologically, the Emperor is Aries; he is active, takes the initiative, but at times can be impulsive. He is dedicated to providing order for those below him, and is stern in his countenance. He is focused on himself and expressing his own identity and power, and serves as a father-figure in contrast to the Empress’ mother-figure. While she, his consort, is fertile, the Emperor is virile and very masculine; even his astrological figure (Aries) is the husband of hers (Venus). The Emperor is the imposer of order; he is strong, intimidating, and just; he is the judge who makes the decisions necessary to keep things running. The Rider-Waite art clearly shows the Emperor in this countenance, sitting sternly upon his throne, surrounded by impenetrable mountains representing his indomitable will; he is the combination of Fire and Earth; he is the volcano. In his hand he holds an Ankh, symbolizing his stability, permanence, and continuation through the symbol of eternal life. The Thoth art for the Emperor similarly shows a stern-looking man, seated in a pose mirroring that of the Hanged Man, suggesting an Ankh as well. The Thoth Emperor is also surrounded by image’s of goat or ram heads (the Rider-Waite Emperor has some on his throne), emphasizing virility and activity. This is further reinforced by the red hue over the card.

The Emperor represents order and structure, and justice that is achieved through the authority of the law. The figure of the Emperor himself is a ruler who has just consolidated his empire, concerned with establishing himself and his progeny through strong laws and order. He represents the strong order of one newly come into power, and the subsequent continuation of this power. He represents authority and security, as well as personal freedom and virility for himself; he is a benevolent dictator. He can often be ruthless and tyrannical, but he is also efficient and just.

On the Tree of Life, the Emperor is the path between the Sefirot of Chokmah and Tiphareth. This represents the fiery energy and activity of the masculine Chokmah coming down to provide order to the world, allowing for the balance and experience of Tiphareth to exist. This card is the active force attempting to bring the world into balance; the revelation of the divine will of God.

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the role of authority and the law in your life. Has the law been just to you? It also requests that you examine your own sense of identity and your power relationships with others, as well as what your legacy will be once you are gone. Reversed, this card’s energies are hidden or twisted somehow; perhaps their is authority but no order, or the law is not serving its true purpose.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

III – Dalet – Venus – Door

Nurture, Sensuality, Charm, and Humility

The Empress, fourth of the Major Arcana, corresponds to the Hebrew letter Dalet. The letter Dalet represents the poor man that the rich man from the letter Gimel comes to give charity to. The letter Dalet represents humility and the acceptance of one’s own “lowliness” and lack of divinity; the keys to pass through the door to heaven. Realizing the relative unimportance of oneself is key to this humility, and along with this realization comes the ability to sacrifice oneself for others, like a mother sacrificing herself for her children – and this idea of motherhood is central to the Empress. She represents the second phase of the moon (that the Priestess is the first of). She is the nurturing and caring aspect of the feminine; the mother. She is selfless and lives to help others, nurturing them so that they grow. She is the door (as represented in the pictographic predecessor of the letter Dalet) to her own salvation and that of others.

Venus is the Empress’ astrological equivalent; beauty, love, sex, intimacy, personal magnetism, harmony, elegance, refinement, grace, allure, and ability to interact on a deeper level with others, even if only for a short period of time. While her Hebrew equivalent is humble, her astrological equivalent is quite astonishing and amazing; it is therefore quite a feat that one so dazzling can still be so humble. The Empress knows exactly how attractive and sensual she can be, and what effects her charms have over others, but she does not abuse it, nor is she proud of it; she is thankful to God for the gifts he has given her, for she knows that without him she would be nothing.

The Empress also stands as the link between Chokmah (First Manifestation) and Binah (Potential and Understanding) in the Tree of Life; the first of the Major Arcana to not emanate from Kether. The Empress represents the active nurturing aspect that leads to one’s potential being realized; she is the original harmony using its nature to help others grow into all that they possible can be. The Empress is the sensual mother, deeply connected to the Earth and the material; by realizing her own lack of divinity she is very, very earthy. She is attractive, alluring, fertile, sexual and sensual, and kind and nurturing. She represents growth – as is evident by looking at the green growth surrounding the Empress in the Rider-Waite image – and a connection to nature. She is beautiful and charming, and is the ultimate mother. She is passionate and loves life, and so helps to bring it into the world, representing the beginning of new life as well, as given to her through the Emperor’s – her consort’s – seed. She is the female counterpart of the Emperor.

The Thoth illustration emphasizes her nurturing and beautiful nature; her arms are held as if holding something precious, and a beautiful swan and other birds lie scattered about her. She holds a flower in her hand, and looks away coyly. Moons are visible around her, emphasizing her feminine nature, and she has two embracing swans on a shield at her feet, emphasizing her association with sensuality.

In a reading, the Empress asks you to examine the role of caretakers in your life, as well as sensuality, physical sensations, and attractiveness. It asks you to re-evaluate your connection with nature, and advise you perhaps to start caring more for others – or allowing others to care for you. Reversed, this card’s energies are twisted, blocked, or distorted somehow; perhaps you are receiving care that is not the best for you, or someone is using their attractiveness in a very not-humble way.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

II – Gimmel – Moon – Camel

Bridge Between Worlds, Silent Guide, Calm Security, and Bastion of Esoteric Knowledge

The Priestess – or High Priestess – third of the Major Arcana, corresponds to the Hebrew letter of Gimmel. The letter Gimmel symbolizes a man running; more specifically, a wealthy man running to catch a poor man to reward him. The letter signifies also a journey, as emphasized in its original pictographic meaning as “camel.” More specifically, this journey is that made between the divine and mortal realms, relatively frequently. It is not exactly like the Fool’s journey of self-discovery, for the Priestess does not seek to unify the world, but just travel between them. Indeed, she herself stands behind a veil, the division between the two worlds, and keeps the mysteries of the divine realm from the mortal worlds. She acts as a sort of judge, giving out punishment and reward in order to restore the balance of the soul (as also hinted at by the meaning of Gimmel). She is the bridge between the two realms, who imparts divine wisdom upon those who ask. She represents also generosity and the passing of secret, esoteric knowledge to others.

She is the counterpart of the Magus; they both are teachers, but in different ways. The Magus actively steps out into the world and trumpets his message, but the Priestess sits impassively in her table, letting her students come to her. She is more mystical and mysterious. Her astrological element is the Moon, and she herself embodies the aspect of the Moon referring to the Eternal Virgin of Artemis. She is a blank slate on which the sun’s light is reflected; she makes it possible for others to realize their full potential. She is a calm source of security, and is completely in control of her emotions. She is the feminine to the Magus’ masculine, and represents also the steadiness of the lunar cycle. She is the blank slate that the Magus uses to realize his own potential, and may have even taught him herself.

The Priestess stands behind a veil in the Thoth art, which has in front of it offerings of fruit and gems from students seeking to learn her secret knowledge. A camel – homage to her association with Gimmel and the journey through life that she helps guide people through – is also present there. She herself stands calm and partially hidden and clouded by the veil. Her virginity is seen in the bow of Artemis lying across her legs, and she holds her hands forth in either an embrace or supplication. The Rider-Waite shows a similar image, with a calm, serene Priestess seated upon a chair, the paper in her hand partially obscured, and the moon at her feet. Behind her are the fruits seen in the Thoth art, which also can represent her nurturing aspect; she teaches by looking after the safety and security of her flock.

The Priestess represents the hidden mysteries in life, and the passive teaching style. She focuses on the inner self, in opposition to the Magus’ focus on the exterior. The Magus represents the conscious will and manipulation of the world, while the Priestess represents the unconscious influence and one’s unintended influence on the world. She helps one realize their full potential and provides them with a secure realm in which to do it. She directly channels the light of the Sefirot of Kether (Spiritual Perfection and Emanation) into the Sefirot of Tiphareth (Balance and Conscious Harmony) in her role as the path between those two Sefirot in the Tree of Life. Her divine knowledge from Kether, passively passed on to those in the more material world, helps others achieve the balance and harmony of Tiphareth consciously; she is the silent guide, always obscured behind the veil. She represents also the mysteries of life, and secrets. She possesses hidden knowledge, and may share it with you. She is also the symbol of femininity, and the mysteriousness, passivity, and inward focus commonly associated with it.

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the role of secrets, mysteries, and forbidden knowledge in your life. Do you know something that maybe you shouldn’t? It also asks you to think about how a calm sense of security might affect your life, or perhaps how a helping guide might help you get your life back on track. Reversed, this card’s energies are blocked, hidden, or twisted somehow; is your guide leading you astray? Is your serene security perhaps not so secure – or serene? Will your forbidden knowledge lead to your ruin?

Thoth – Rider-Waite

I – Beth  – Mercury – House

Activity, Knowledge, Teaching/Prophecy, and Will

The Magus – Magician in the Rider-Waite tradition – is the second of the trumps, following the Fool. The Magus corresponds to the second Hebrew letter, Beit. Beit is the first letter of the Tanakh (rather than Aleph, the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet), and so is in a way associated with the act of creation. The original pictographic meaning of the letter Beit is that of house or tent; specifically the house of the Lord. This again ties back to the idea of creation, as God created his Temple (his house) so that he would have somewhere to reside in the lower realms. His “house,” though, consisted of all of the Jewish people, each of whom carried a part of the Lord with them. The Hebrew people were created so that God could dwell in them and also so that they might conquer and make for themselves a kingdom in the name of the Lord. The Magus is in control of his own inner house; he is the Master of the House.

The Magus, then, represents the divine spirit in each and every one of us. The Magus is the House of the Lord, providing the link between the mortal realm and the higher realm. While the Fool seeks a union of the two realms through ascension, the Magus seeks a union through descending. In the Rider-Waite art, the Magus holds aloft a two-sided candle in one hand, while the other points down at the ground; a common symbol of channeling divine power from above down to the Earth. In serving as this bridge of sorts, the Magus represents both Air (Heaven) and Earth (Earth), applying the vast array of knowledge he has to the art of creation, as seen by the four tools on the table before him: a wand, a cup, a sword, and a pentacle – the four suits making up all of existence. The Magus is an active manipulator, using his intelligence and knowledge to actively manipulate the world around him. The Magus’ chosen tool is the Wand, associating him with Fire – yet at the same time, he is also the epitome of the intellectual, and so is associated also with Air. In his function as the representative of the divine on Earth, he also represents the grounding of divine logic, and so is associated with Earth.

The Magus is represented in Astrology by Mercury. Mercury – or Hermes, or Thoth –  is the messenger of the Gods, active and swift, able to move and speak with great clarity and reason. He is well-loved, as be brings people the Word, and has great charisma. He represents energy sent forth, and the outer aspects and image that one projects. He has tremendous force of Will, He is a fabulous orator, able to convince others to follow him, and also is a tremendous intellectual and scholar. He knows everything about the world, and knows also how to manipulate it (Mercury is known as being a trickster of sorts as well). The Magus is wise, and is able to think and express himself clearly over any medium. He is capable and confident, able to create, manipulate, and judge.

The Magus also represents in many ways the “ideal” man; confident, assertive, knowledgeable, creative, active, and wise. He knows the mysteries of the divine and is close to Hod through his knowledge; he is the counterpart of the High Priestess. Unlike her, he is not half-hidden or mysterious; he feels no need to hide his power, and strides confidently through space, doing what he wills. This can be seen clearly in the Thoth art, as the wing-footed Magus floats through space, creation stretching all around him, reaching out and interacting with everything (again, the four suits appear on this card). He is also a sort of prophet, able to spread divine words of wisdom to others, as he has knowledge of infinity (the symbol of infinity appears above his head in the Rider-Waite card, and the caduceus appears. His words, however, can be distorted and misheard by others, as seen by the Ape at his feet.

When looking at the Tree of Life, the Magus is the path between Kether (Spiritual Perfection and Emanation) and Binah (Understanding and Potential). In this regard, his role as bringer of the divine Word from Kether to allow others to understand their potential is emphasized. He connects the wisdom and Perfection of Kether to the Understanding and Potential of Binah, serving as a teacher and mediator between the intellectual realm of understanding and the spiritual truth behind things, using the energy of Kether to actively bring the message of God to the masses (Binah can also represent duality and passivity) who listen attentively for enlightenment.

In a reading, this card asks you to examine the role that activity, conscious manipulation, and words of wisdom play in your life. It suggests that you think about how messengers have influenced your life, and of how you influence the world around you and project an external image of yourself. Reversed, this card’s energies are blocked, hidden, or twisted somehow; the Magus in your life is hidden, or you do not hear their magic. Maybe you are unconsciously changing the world around you to a far greater extent than you mean to. Reversed, the Ape of Distortion becomes dominant, and the true words of the Magus are distorted and misunderstood.

Thoth – Rider-Waite

O – Aleph – Air – Ox

New Beginnings, Innocence, Faith, and Curiosity

The Fool is the first of the Major Arcana, and also some would argue the end. It corresponds to the Hebrew letter Aleph, one of the three mother letters. The letter Aleph is made up of two of the letter Yud, both separated and joined by a single Vav set diagonally. The two Yuds represent high (wet) water and low (cold) water, which in turn represent higher realms (Heaven) and lower realms (Earth). The Vav between them represents the place between the two realms, both dividing them and connecting them. This letter, then, represents the joining of higher and lower realms; the ascension of the lower and the descending of the higher. The Fool corresponds to this letter because he also represents this union of two worlds. He dwells in the lower world, and seeks to reach the higher world through gaining knowledge and experience. The Fool is on a quest; he has started a journey and is attempting to reach a higher level of understanding, thereby crossing the bridge between worlds, travelling from one Yud to the other through Vav. He seeks to become whole and complete, the union of Man and God.

The letter Aleph – and then, by extension, the card of the Fool – is also associated with the element of Air. He lives in a world of fantasy, sometimes heedless of the dangers before him on his quest (as can be seen in the Rider-Waite art, where he appears to be about to step off of a cliff, and ignores the yapping dog at his heels). He has grand dreams before him (see the flower in the Rider-Waite art) and idealized notions of what the world will be like; he starts out on his journey as being quite the actual fool, naive, easily led, and dreamy. He doesn’t know what he’s getting himself into. But, like the element of Air represents, he is a very thoughtful person, to whom reality has little concern, and who is instead concerned with fulfilling an abstract ideal, and discovering who he is himself.

Despite these airy connections, however, the letter Aleph also, in its original pictographic form represented an Ox; a very Earthy animal. So, this way, the Fool is both the beginning and the end, as the element of Earth represents new beginnings, which in turn imply old endings. The Ox is also a stubborn and strong animal; the Fool’s naivete will allow him to blissfully and stubbornly push onwards against all odds. He charts uncharted territory, and like the Ox, serves as a leader, opening the way for others to follow.

The Fool represents, in its simplest forms, new beginnings. He can represent the beginning of a journey, a quest for discovery, or of creation. The Thoth Fool better illustrates the Fool’s special connection with God, as pointed out by Aleph’s association as the Father letter, the first and most humble of the Hebrew alphabet, and the closest to God. In the Thoth art, the fool stands at the center of an outward spiraling of energy, indicating the infinite. He appears simultaneously as a man and as a divinity, from which energy emanates to fill the world. His creation is not the intentional and well-planned creation associated with the Magician, but rather creation done almost mindlessly and unintentionally, creating wondrous new beginnings without thinking much about its implications. He is innocent and has complete faith in the world; he does not even try to protect himself from it, as he cannot imagine that it will harm him. The Thoth art also shows a beast worrying at the leg of the fool, but he is so wrapped up on creating a new beginning for himself that he seems not to notice. He is surrounded by symbols of innocence, such as flowers, butterflies, and a dove, and the world forms itself only in the areas already touched by the energy emanating from him.

The Fool is also curious, willing to set out and explore everything around him on a quest for knowledge. He may appear mad to some, but he himself knows what he is doing. He is a wanderer seeking to find himself, and has the potential to become someone great, and actively seeks to realize said potential. In this way, he is divinely inspired; he is the childlike god, possessing much power and not realizing it (think Haruhi Suzumiya here). He is the Man-God, incorporating elements of realms both divine and mortal.

In the tree of life, the Fool corresponds to the path between Kether (spiritual perfection and emanation) and Chokmah (first manifestation and pure harmony). He stands on the first path of the Sefirot, fitting his position as the first trump. He comes out of the creation of Kether and immediately takes action – such as is represented by Chokmah – to learn all he can. He is a student, and represents the energy of the suits as they pass through the Sefirot, and he himself experiences the effect of every card. He also can be seen as representing the querent or the human condition.

This card, then, symbolizes journeys of all kinds, innocence, new beginnings, potential, naivete, air-headedness, curiosity, faith in fate and the world – it will take care of you and itself – and a sort of mystical madness; the sort that comes from a man unwilling to admit defeat in his quest to reach a higher plane of understanding. In a reading, this card asks you to examine the roles that folly, naivete, and curiosity play in your life, and may advise you to look for a new start in your life, go on a journey or travel somewhere, and to just close your eyes and take the plunge, trusting that you’ll be okay. Reversed, this card’s energies are blocked or twisted somehow; perhaps your journey or new beginning will have to wait a while. It is very difficult to read this card as negative; the folly that this card represents is not ignorance (that’s the realm of the Devil), but rather that of choosing to ignore the troubles of the world, which in itself is a positive thing; this card is extremely optimistic.

There are four suits in the Tarot, and each suit has Four Court Cards, each card representing a personality that illustrates a different aspect of their suit. These four personalities are the fiery, watery, airy, and earthy parts of Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. The Knights are all the “fathers” in their family, representing the fiery, active personalities found in their suit. The Queens are the “mothers,” who represent the watery, passive personalities of each suit. The Princes are the eldest children, representing the airy, intellectual personalities found in each suit. The Princesses are the younger children, representing the Earthy, practical personalities found in each suit. Each group of four cards within a suit defines a family.

The Family of Wands

The family of Wands is that of a royal dynasty. The patriarch, the Knight of Wands, is the Fire of Fire, and is an active and passionate man. He is new to his throne, having married the old queen, and so has much to prove and tries to do so as quickly as possible. He is impulsive and prideful, but is willing to do whatever needs to be done to rule with Strength.

His wife is the Queen of Wands, and she is the Water of Fire, who embodies the qualities of the Suit far less actively than her husband. She is the older ruler, and acts like a cat; she is charming, competent and everyone loves her for the qualities she embodies and the charisma she had, but she can be vindictive and tyrannical is raised to anger, and is aloof from the people, unlike her husband.

Their first child is the Prince of Wands, who takes advantage of what he has and uses his smoldering charm to cause others to love him, but he views them all as play-things, and he often amuses himself at the expense of others; his attention is powerful, but fleeting.

Their second child is the Princess of Wands, who is more logical and sensible than her air-headed brother. She does what needs to be done for the good of the kingdom, and explores new frontiers and does what no one else will dare to do, earning her admiration.

The Family of Cups

The family of Cups is that of a noble family. The patriarch, the Knight of Cups, was raised as an only child, and is kind-hearted and wants to help those around him, but isn’t sure how he can. He is unsure of himself, but has visions of grandeur and of going out to change the world, but never actually goes out and does it, instead engaging in flights of fancy. He is kind and generous when others come to him, but he will not seek others out.

His consort, the Queen of Cups, holds frequent audiences in her private chambers, where she spends most of the day dreaming behind her veil. She deliberately keeps herself mysterious, and allows people to ask her favors, which she will then grant them. She knows how to help people, and instantly makes connections with people, understanding their emotions. She helps them realize who they are, and then returns to her state of blissful dreaming.

Their eldest child, the Prince of Cups, is a talented artist and gifted individual, who everything comes naturally to, but who also tends to remain aloof from others, expressing himself and connecting with them through his works of art, which are admired by all.

His sister, the Princess of Cups, is a partyer. She is often full of wise words of advice, like her mother, but they are often hard to understand as she is constantly lost in ecstasy, having given over to debauchery and a state of eternal rapture. She is easily taken advantage of and given to worldly pleasures, spoiled by her parents and ignored by her brother.

The Family of Swords

The family of Swords is a family of dedicated freedom fighters. The patriarch and father, the Knight of Swords, is devoted to a cause completely and utterly, ignoring his family in order to help bring about his glorious vision of equality. He is very intelligent and deeply idealistic, and goes out into the world to try to change things to make the universe more right. His actions are, however, self-destructive, and will lead him to ruin as he fights authority and the rest of the world.

His wife, the Queen of Swords, is a very independent-minded and capable woman, a result of her husband never being around. She, shares her husband’s vision of the future – indeed, he couldn’t stand her if she didn’t – and is equal to him in their household. She, however, prefers to bring about their shared ideal reality through less aggressive means, by brokering peaces and slowly spreading her ideas. She serves as an arbiter of disputes and a diplomat, able to understand the source of any conflict and choose the best course of action to solve it.

They have too children, both raised to believe in their parents’ ideals. Their son, the Prince of Swords, believes that their theory for the future needs to be sound and well thought-out before action is taken, and so locks himself in his ivory tower, constantly thinking up new theories about the universe have long since ceased to have any practical application. He is a genius, and no one else – not even his parents – understand half of what he says. He has long since left reality, lost in his own thoughts, having nothing or no-one to ground him.

His younger sister, the Princess of Swords, helps her mother manage the household in her father’s absence. She is clever and possessed of a low cunning, and is willing to compromise some of her principles in order to get something closer to what she dreams of. She is able to come up with lots of ideas, like her brother, but hers are very practical. She is a fantastic manager, able to put her clever ideas into practice, and is a positive asset to her parents, even if she can be petty and vengeful at times.

The Family of Disks

The family of Disks is a family of businesspeople. The patriarch, the Knight of Disks, got to where he is today – a wealthy, successful businessmen and entrepreneur – through careful saving, hard work, and calculated risk. He is very cautious, but willing to take a risk when the chance of failure is minimal and the rewards are great. He is very logical and also stubborn; he will never admit he’s wrong, and will always have his way, as he brings home the most bread.

His wife, the Queen of Disks, is the perfect hostess, and submits to her husband’s desires. She longs for something greater, but her husband is set in tradition and will not let her be anything greater. She helps everyone who comes to see her as much as she can, and gives so much of herself away that there is little left for her. She lives through the lives of those she helps, as she herself has no life to live outside her home. She spends her life helping others to realize their potential and assisting them on their journey trough life; she is a very good teacher.

Their eldest child, the Prince of Disks, is dull, slow-moving, stubborn, ponderous, but very intelligent; his mind just works at a slower pace than most others. He chooses his words carefully, and once he starts moving, can not be stopped. He is fantastic at solving problems, able to come up with clever solutions to any problem his father sets before him.

Their youngest child, the Princess of Disks, has been married off to another aspiring businessman, and she bears his child. She brings much potential wealth to her father’s and her husband’s families, and also carries the next generation with her. She is fierce and will not let anything harm her unborn child, as it is everything to her. She is beautiful, strong, and won’t take any nonsense. She knows how important she is, and she won’t let anyone forget it.