#orthodox tarot deck

[fadingfestivalbatpickle]

Tarot cards are not just helpful for predicitions, theres important life lessons to learn from each one of them!

Bite sized meaning of the tarot cards through:

The fool's journey!

[Major arcana]

The fool- an inexperienced yet optimistic little man starting his brand new journey

Magician- The connection between the divine and physical, the manifestor

High priestess- representor of intuition and the keeper of hidden knowledge

Empress- the representor of creativity, abundance and fertility living in a paradise on earth

Emperor- the representation of structure, authority, discipline and order

The hierophant: the messenger of god and teacher of the religious and orthodox

Lovers : the epitome of all love: romantic, material, spiritual, platonic, parental, universal,self love

The chariot: the man who charges forward through all challenges through absolute self belief and control, bringing victory

Justice: the one who maintains law and rules by distributing rewards and punishment to those deserving

Hermit: the one who observes the world in all its beauty and evil and seeks inward for the answers

Wheel of fortune: the everchanging nature of life with all its unpredictable ups and downs, joys and sorrows, luck and misfortune

Strength: the representor of quiet inner strength, power of persuasion and compassion and mastering of ones raw emotions and instincts

Hanged man: the man who observes the world from the perspective of detachment, objectivity and ultimate surrender

Death: the harbringer of renewal and change through the destruction of the old

Temperance: the angel who represents balance, harmony and patience

Devil: the representor of illusion, addiction, lust, losing ones good judgement and self control

Tower: complete and sudden upheaval and destruction of false ego and that which was not built on a healthy, true and strong foundation

The star: the pure state of being after being stripped down to your truest self, filled with hope

The moon: the illusion, fear caused by lack of clarity, the call to listen to your inner voice

The sun: The fool after being unshackled from the illusion and misery of material life through its great journey,now lives in authenticity, purity, wisdom and ultimate joy

The world : the completion of the fool's journey. Accomplishment, fulfillment and integration.

But know that every end must be met with a new start.

for as long as the fool has more to learn, the wheel must keep turning!

Based on the rider-waite tarot deck

[houseplantcreature]

I love drawing DnD characters, and had recently bought an Ipad to use for art. As a way to motivate myself to learn digital art and improve my skills, I decided to recreate the entire tarot deck (22 cards) with mine and my friends' RPG characters! We had fun sorting them all into the correct card, and I loved deciding on the poses to fit the theme and the character.

Temperance is my friend's character, Cassandra the vampire from a Vampire: The Masquerade campaign. She's Greek Orthodox, and finding it very hard to reckon with her new vampiric status. She avoids drinking human blood, and sticks only to animal blood because she feels it's more ethical.

[orangepunkwitch-blog]

Now that I've recovered a little, I can finally make a post! But first, I need to put a little side-note here: I may not post everyday because I'm still trying to build my strength back up, which is a pain in the ass when you got other shit to get done, mental health issues regarding depression and anxiety, etc., so right now, it's hard to tell if I will ever post anything on an almost daily basis.

I'd also like to mention that I will not be sharing every single thing I experience or do in my practice. I may not even share pics of my altars very much (if at all!) more to emphasize how witchcraft and paganism are not only aesthetics but actual practices. This doesn't mean I will never share pics as examples, especially if they're god examples for practical reasons. Don't expect super chic witchy aesthetics to come from my personal photos that I choose to share. Yeah, the aesthetics can be nice every once in a while, but again, I want to emphasize that this is an actual practice, and that we shouldn't allow such practices (regardless of the beliefs or culture) to be turned into a fad or trend that corporations can make money off of (and uh.. that's kind of happening but we shouldn't allow it to be the norm).

....I guess that's what this post is gonna be about, lol. I hadn't really planned on what to post. It's been a while since I've done any real active stuff. It's been mostly piecing together what bits of Serbian pagan practices I can find (for the witchcraft part), and then filling in the blanks with what the Serbian Orthodox practice does, then taking out the christian part and making it pagan since that's where the unique practices within that branch of christianity came from in the first place.

Another thing I'd like to do posts on (as I, personally, pick up the habit and find them useful) is DIY'ing everything for the practical elements and not worrying about aesthetics.

Before I forget: you're not gonna find crystal-related magick with me here at all. So if that's what you're looking for, you won't find it here. I've got ethical reasons for why I personally won't be incorporating any. And you will also likely not find very many (if any) spell jars of any sort.

I will also not always tell you what all I do for each spell, or at least I won't be telling you what I'm doing a spell for before I've even cast it. This is because I don't want outside influences fucking with it and shit. I also will not share everything that I have that's obviously pagan-related that you may see in any photos that I have in terms of what they're for or what I've enchanted them with or what have you. This is for the same reason.

Some things I'll try to share will be stuff like the tarot deck I commonly use (I have 3, but this 3rd one is amazing for me to work with and I got it from an artist on Etsy) to promote that you don't need the artwork of a deck to look a certain way or "you're not a real practitioner." I may even share certain readings long after I've done them, and that would depend entirely on whether or not the gods (or whomever I'm talking to) are cool with it. (I do plan at some point to show off my favorite cards based on design from this deck, to be honest, lol).

One thing I might do is---if I can actually do this since money is the only issue here for what I need to do anyways for one particular object I need despite me adding a pagan reason to it---share an example of an outdoor altar that may not quite seem like an outdoor altar. (I know this is vague but I didn't check in with any of my gods as to whether or not they were cool with me sharing to whom, with what, and whether pics were allowed to be shared.)

I'll definitely share some of the family-related stuff when it comes to pagan meanings for me, like how I look back at my baptism into the Serbian Orthodox Church and such. However, when I finally do get an ancestral altar started (which likely won't be until my muž and I get our own house), I will not be sharing photos of it. I might explain some of the types of objects I have on the altar, but never photos of the altar itself. This is largely because it will be dedicated to mostly family members I knew in real-life that I miss dearly. I will also not be sharing names of those that I knew, and I may not even share names of those who I did not know (and whom actually immigrated here to avoid WWI).

I, unfortunately, do not speak Serbian. I would have learned it from certain family members if I not only thought about asking to be taught, but also if it weren't for the fact that said family members have all died. Access to resources to learn Serbian on my own is extremely limited, and I do own 1 book, but it's the cases that are hard for me to learn. I HOPE to go back to college, and the school I hope to attend requires a minimum of 2 levels of a foreign language, with Russian being one of the languages offered. I tried Russian on Duolingo and they didn't teach shit about the cases, so I'm hoping learning the cases in an actual classroom setting might help me have an easier time in learning Serbian. (With the pandemic still ongoing, I may end up finding some way to fork over the extra money to get these whole-ass textbooks about the language that I've found online that's highly recommended.)

I feel I need to add that despite my practice being more centered around my family roots and such, this does not mean that Loki is no longer in my life. He's still around. I still have his altar up. I've just been redirected to reconnect with my roots in as ethical of a way as possible. This has opened my eyes to the unfortunate circumstances that whenever I look up Serbian cultural anything regarding the pagan path, it's either very christian-centric anyways or it's very nationalistic (and even bigoted and/or wh1te s*premacist-y) sorta thing that I try to avoid as much as possible.

I've been distracted heavily by my cat, some chores I gotta do, and this headache that comes and goes, so I'll have to end my post here for now. I apologize that it's a bit all over the place, but I still intend to keep this blog active. I'm still trying to get back on my feet regarding my practice because I've had a bunch of other life stuff that I needed to sort out, and the only regular "practice" I've done was tarot card readings.

Thank you for your time!

[ldknightshade]

ocs + morality: mantis, in retrospect

unpacking mantis’ moral code within their backstory; under a cut for length!

2270 - 2274

on the run, having left the rogue remnants that was the chicago chapter of the brotherhood and going under the name bloatfly, they’re mostly doing whatever they can to get by while finding themself. at this point, they’ve developed a disdain for authority and in-groups, but still willing to do what they gotta to get by. they’ve developed a sense of altruism along the way while being haunted by the morals taught to them growing up.

religiously, they had no particular sway beyond utilizing the tarot deck passed down through their mother’s side of the family; there was no doctrine attached to the concept, so bloatfly sought information where they could, keeping an open mind.

2274 - 2276

yoinked by the legion, they’re more focused on managing to survive day-to-day. anatolia may not be on the battlefield, but life under the legion is a warzone in itself; this leads to complicitness in various atrocities and they find themself falling into an “every man for himself” mentality. this gets exacerbated, along with their pre-existing vindictiveness, manipulative tendencies, and lack of empathy as time goes on.

with their status being what it was, anything beyond zealotry was impossible. as a gifted psyker and high ranking educator, anything beyond orthodox, roman neo-constructionism was not an option. however, very quickly they fell into genuinely following the beliefs. mars, of course, being the chief deity of the legion’s beliefs and as such their own. however, other deities anatolia found themself drawn to included fortuna and mercury.

2276 - 2281

having commit treason for the second time and on the run yet again and going by various pseudonyms, they’re forced to reconcile their learned “every man for himself” with the previously adopted altruism. at this point, though, they’ve gained further disdain for authority, especially by violent means, as well as for in-groups. overall, they’re very pessimistic and find comfort in hedonism during this time.

now free to explore religion more progressively, their learned steadfast belief becomes more amorphous and less war-mongering. where they were once forced to prioritize mars, they now elected to prioritize fortuna and mercury. however, believing they served mars well and him in turn to them, is not quick to wholly abandon him.

2281

awaking in goodsprings and adopting the name mantis, with their memory shot, they find themselves erring towards a more idealistic and altruistic view, with none of the previous pessimism. nothing to hold them back, they find joy in helping people; even if it is self-serving at times. there is more emphasis on community as a priority for them than being anti-authoritarian.

the remnants of their old lives’ beliefs still stayed within their belongings when they woke up in goodsprings. mantis deduces they must be religious, then, and adopts the concept with open arms. however, the rigorous discipline of prior practice doesn’t stick. at this point, though, they find themself the most devoted to fortuna out of all the iterations. you know. considering the whole… lucky enough to cheat death thing.

picrew links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4

template / guide

[rajneespiritualhealer]

The Art of Tarot Reading: Understanding its Origins in Kolkata

Beyond the Hooghly: Unraveling the Mystic Tapestry of Tarot in Kolkata

The bustling tapestry of Kolkata, where ancient ghats whisper to modern skyscrapers, holds within its folds a captivating story – the story of tarot reading. Unlike the often Western-laden narratives, Kolkata's embrace of this enigmatic art form weaves a unique tale, steeped in colonial echoes, spiritual intrigue, and an unyielding thirst for wisdom. To delve into the magic of tarot in Kolkata is to embark on a journey through time, exploring a cultural confluence that has birthed a vibrant and distinct reading practice.

From Europe's Shores to Ganga's Embrace: Early Traces of Tarot in Kolkata

While the precise timing of tarot's arrival in Kolkata remains hazy, whispers of its presence can be traced back to the 18th century. The advent of colonialism saw British merchants and explorers carrying the deck, imbued with European folklore and esoteric symbolism. It found fertile ground in the intellectual haven of Kolkata, then Calcutta, where a burgeoning elite, exposed to both Western and Indian philosophies, were drawn to its enigmatic allure.

However, the tarot encountered cultural resistance. Orthodox Brahminical interpretations deemed it an "occult" practice, incompatible with Vedic traditions. Yet, its captivating imagery and veiled narratives resonated with the city's mystic undercurrent. Bengali spiritualists began reinterpreting the tarot through the lens of their own rich tapestry of myths and symbols, weaving in elements of Tantra, folk deities, and local lore. Thus, a distinctive brand of "Hinduized" tarot took root, one that resonated deeply with the Bengali psyche.

From Drawing Rooms to Hawker Stalls: The Democratization of Tarot in Kolkata

Initially confined to drawing rooms of the elite, the tarot's allure gradually permeated the city's veins. Street hawkers began selling cheap, locally produced decks, often featuring imagery familiar to the common folk – Rama and Sita replacing the Emperor and Empress, Ganesh taking the place of the Magician. This accessibility, coupled with the inherent human desire for guidance and introspection, propelled tarot into the hearts of the masses.

Kolkata's tea shops and roadside stalls became impromptu divination hubs. Housewives seeking clarity on domestic matters, young lovers yearning for guidance, and businessmen navigating uncertain ventures – all found solace in the cryptic whispers of the cards, interpreted by seasoned readers steeped in Bengali wisdom. This democratization fostered a unique reading style, characterized by directness, humour, and a deep understanding of local anxieties and aspirations.

Beyond Fortune-Telling: The Holistic Approach of Kolkata's Tarot Readers

Unlike many Western interpretations, Kolkata's tarot reading rarely focuses solely on predicting the future. Instead, it emphasizes self-discovery, offering insights into one's inner landscape and karmic patterns. Readers often employ a holistic approach, drawing upon numerology, astrology, and even palm reading to enrich their interpretations. This multi-faceted approach reflects the inherent interconnectedness of human mind, body, and spirit, as understood within the Bengali ethos.

Furthermore, Kolkata's tarot practice often transcends the realm of individual guidance. Readings are frequently used to understand interpersonal dynamics, navigate family issues, and even offer insights into community concerns. This collective focus reflects the deeply ingrained sense of connection in Bengali society, where individual well-being is intricately linked to the welfare of the larger community.

The Future Unfurled: Embracing the Mystic Legacy of Kolkata's Tarot

While the digital age has brought new divination tools and trends, Kolkata's traditional tarot reading style endures, testament to its cultural relevance and spiritual resilience. Today, young tarot enthusiasts are rediscovering this ancestral practice, infusing it with modern sensibilities while acknowledging its rich history. Online communities buzz with discussions, workshops flourish, and a new generation of readers emerge, eager to carry the torch of this mystic art form.

The enduring story of tarot in Kolkata serves as a captivating window into the city's cultural spirit. It showcases a remarkable synthesis of Eastern and Western influences, a testament to the city's unyielding thirst for knowledge and its unwavering belief in the power of the unseen. As Kolkata strides into the future, its tarot tapestry continues to unravel, offering whispers of guidance, glimmers of self-discovery, and a unique lens through which to navigate the mysteries of life itself.

[infjtarot]

Hierophant. Golden Art Nouveau Tarot

What do we hold as truth, and how does the truth hold us? The Hierophant stands for tradition, like the Emperor stands for structure, and like the Emperor, this card is a challenge for many modern readers. Its imagery is orthodox, patriarchal, and authoritative. This is the Pope, whose absolute authority is symbolized by the kneeling prelates and the crossed keys of Peter. And, once again we see the Tarot’s tendency to think in dualistic pairs. The Emperor and the Empress present the rule of the earth, from nature to human civilization. In contrast, the High Priestess and the Hierophant (or the Papess and the Pope, as they were originally called) present the rule of the heavens. And just as we saw the Emperor wielding a potentially oppressive and rigid discipline in contrast to the fluid vibrancy of the Empress, so too does the Hierophant traditionally represent the rigidity of orthodox spirituality in contrast to the fluidity of the dark and sacred mystery. But for all his rule and rigor, our Hierophant is barefoot! Roberto de Angelis’s depiction of this card for the Universal Tarot departs in this one fascinating detail from the traditional Waite-Smith imagery. Pamela Colman Smith’s supreme pontiff wears dainty white shoes adorned with little crosses. Our Hierophant here has hammertoes! There are so many moments in reading Tarot like this one—where one’s personal resonance with a particular card in a specific deck can change everything. These bare feet peeping out from under the formal vestments speak to humility, groundedness, an ancient and holy connection to the earth and the past, and a certain vulnerability. It is astonishing to me that I can trace the lineage of the dharma back so visibly, so concretely, across the flow of time. In literal terms, tradition just means handing something down or over. As a figure of tradition, we can keep the Hierophant in his darkest guise, as the massive patriarch of orthodoxy and spiritual dominion. Or we can imagine all the hands across time who have made the truths of faith apparent. Hand over hand, hand in hand, across time. Tradition is just about hand-me-downs, from one elder sibling to the next—like that dress with the embroidered strawberries that my older sister gave me and that I wore every day I could in second grade, with shorts underneath so I could hang upside down from the monkey bars. Tradition is sometimes nothing more complicated than that. There’s a humility, maybe even a barefoot humility, in recognizing that no person alone holds the truth. St. Augustine, who was himself a bishop with authority not unlike our Hierophant, once wrote that “God’s truth is neither mine nor his nor another’s, but all of ours. Thus we must commune in God’s truth. Otherwise, by desiring to possess the truth in private we may find ourselves deprived of it.” 56 Augustine goes on to say that lies are indeed the only things that are private. Any speck of truth we might hold belongs to everyone. Truth is communal property.

The Hierophant can feel rigid, static, and unyielding, but we can also understand his tradition as movement: as the common wind of truth that moves with us, moves through us, that supports us and holds us aloft. The Hierophant invites us to ask what matters most in our lives. How did it come to us? And how are we, ourselves, holding it safe—and passing it on? Lisa Freinkel Tishman.

[normal-horoscopes]

So, I have heard it claimed that Tarot decks are culturally appropriating from Kabbalah. Now, I recognize that you aren't Jewish so I'm not asking you if that's Okay™, but since you're the best informed person I am aware of in terms of the history of cartomancy and Weird Shit Occult Societies Do, my question is, is that a plausible claim? The impression that I have gotten from the research I've done on the subject is that it's more like... The Golden Dawn people (Waite and Coleman) who made the popular Tarot format really WANTED everyone to think it contains Kabbalah stuff because that makes them feel cool and mysterious (in much the same way that their predecessor De Gébelin claimed his was based on Egyptian texts that no one could read at the time) but that that claim was largely bunk. Is that an accurate impression?

While I am not Jewish, I do know quite a bit about the history of cartomancy.

I can safely say that yes, some tarot decks appropriate concepts from Judaism, but the idea of tarot itself does not. From my understanding -which could be incomplete- is that it heavily depends on the imagery the deck uses.

For instance, the sunflowers behind the RWS high priestess form a sephirot, the RWS Devil uses a hand gesture that is very significant within Judaism (most people know it as the Vulcan Salute), and there are Hebrew characters smattered throughout the entire RWS deck.

De Gebelin's claims of Egyptian esoterica are not entirely bullshit. At that point in history, heiroglyphics hadn't been translated yet, but he draws more from Eastern Orthodox Christianity than he does Egyptian esoterica.

[filibusterfrog]

All your tarot adopts are beautiful but that hierophant one is especially cool and I wanted to ask if it’s perhaps inspired by Slavic / orthodox christian cultures? If not that’s cool too I just thought it kinda reminded me of that and wanted to ask 😅

it is! i saw the hat in the rider deck and i was like yeah ok

this is the man whom i stole for my dastardly designs

[alchemabotana]

8 of Swords - Piczanka Tarot

This is the colorized 8 of Swords for the Piczanka Tarot deck.

Because the 8 of swords is all about the revelations, I thought I’d share some about the journey I had with my deck.

The original hand drawn deck was completely black and white, done with any black pen or marker I could find the day of drawing, and whatever paper was around. I started drawing my deck in the back of Ardmore Coffee with my friend who worked security at WFU night shifts. My boy would get off his shift when I was waking up, so we’d meet in the frigid morning and make ourselves draw before the rest. I started my deck the day after my birthday in 2018. At that time we were also filming “Antonina’s Shaman Shop” (you can watch it on YouTube, it won a Coalition of Visionary Resources award at the International New Age Trade Show for “best new electronic media”)

The swords in this digital collage are from a photograph of Russian slave labor’s prison mastercraft. These prisoners within the Russian gulag system were imprisoned for the skill sets they could provide the state for free as wards of their system. In many cases this entailed creating luxury items such as glass mirrors, which many had spiritual superstitions around. The generations who lived within the system passed down this craft knowledge for long enough for such beautiful objects to be made from the trash found and traded between inmates. There were obviously gangs and subcultures within the gulags, and a sword like this one is a prison shank made from trash with the knowledge of a master glass maker (gained from a family teacher or mentor:apprentice relationship - knowledge forced on the teacher by the gulag).

This system within Russia at large was also prevalent, and what made the gulags and prison camps unique were that they were concentration camps of artisans and craftsman the state had taken for their gifts. I could speak more about which communities specifically were targeted, but the concepts are hard to translate. The major one being the LGBTQ communities, the autistic communities, the non orthodox Christians and Jews, the orthodox Christians and Jews, the musician & bard class, the gypsy class, and the academic class. Class systems were strong in the motherland. Russia’s system of government thrived under the theft of these class’s labor for the state. This was motivated by greed, superiority, and class power by powerful individuals who could simply take it.

Unlike the struggle of Germany, Russian and Slavic people who were taken were not immediately killed or worked to death specifically for racially impurity as with the Nazi ideology. Hitler’s ultimate personal obsession was the eradicated the Jews as the “final solution” - what he considered a Jew was not necessarily how Jewish or Slavic communities saw themselves, although in American culture everyone speaks of Jews and survivors from the perspective of the abuser’s concept of race thrust upon us.

In Russia people were taken for their minds, hands, voices, and choices. With the assistance of the Nazi ideology many were empowered to speak in terms of racial cleansing, and it is true that many were murdered en masse, but this was done with line ups and shootings of prisoners only taken for that purpose. Russia rarely housed those it did not desire to benefit from the work of. As such, the “useless” such as disabled people were often culled from a young age. Indeed, those who were not often suffered and died from the lack of resources and support such individuals need to survive.

Those less desirable workers, especially the Jews, Catholics, and political prisoners of interest taken by Russian military in the 1939 invasion of Ukraine & Poland were taken to Siberia to mine precious stones and minerals for the elite classes and Russian science programs, or put to work cutting down trees and other resources by hand for the government stockpiles.

These people lived incredibly primitively during their imprisonment in the Arctic desert of Siberia. These camps were meant to quickly kill the prisoners & there were few intentions to return for more resources. Now these camps can only be found by well versed guides of the Siberian forests, or by locals of small villages still near old sites. These spaces still exist, preserved by the cold of the forest.

Once I met a gemstone trader from Russia who knew where to find the mines for the stones gathered by the prisoners. He said you can sometimes see them in the summer while flying over in helicopters. He gave me a stone from one of the mines when he saw my Babcia appear next to me. He was so frightened he almost passed out. He told me to take the stone I was holding and get out of there. The name of that stone is Charoite. Many of the stones people love and use in their spiritual practices in the New Age in America come from these mines & other prison mines. These stones are: MOLDAVITE, tektite, charoite, shungite, Baltic amber, Baltic coral & turquoise, Siberian diamonds, Alexandrite, Emeralds, garnet, amethyst, spinel, and Topaz. There are others too, but I do not yet know which ones.

This is why we are so intentional at the shop about where we buy our crystals and who from. Because, it’s not just part of the heritage that our families were forced to mine these stones as slave labor (and that others continued to be forced well into this present generation) - it’s also because in our indigenous beliefs, the stones are the ancestors & connection to spirit & our ancestors were forced to mine them to stay alive & give them to their oppressors.

Thanks for coming to my Tarot Ted Talk on why my heritage matters to me & why you should be aware of the layers of cultural appropriation that effect those who are survivors of genocides and holocausts in this present age. This is also why our communities find it highly concerning that America is operating like a giant gulag with small gulags within it. The behavior and violence here has rung more than a few bells on our memories, and I hope for the spirit of American Liberty… that our consciousness as humans be healed toward one another so that this cycle of revenge will stop in this land we call home. Time to stop acting like we’re above the thoughts and actions we can see so clearly in other countries. Time to begin to see what we’re doing to each other. That starts with each of us from within each of us. Pull out the sword, cut yourself free 🔪

[theouijaboard]

Celtic Cross Tarot Reading - 25.01.2022

For : @eleanorewhittock​​​​​ By : Muiris Doyle In Game Date : December 1888

Reading can be found below the cut

Card One : The Present

This card represents what is currently happening in your life, and reflects your state of mind and perceptions.

THE HIEROPHANT

The card depicts a religious figure that sits in a formal environment, namely a church. He is wearing three elaborate vestments which are designated to represent the three different worlds. His right hand is properly raised in an act of benediction, a sign of blessing. In his other hand, he carries a triple cross, which is associated traditionally with the pope. Each of the horizontal bars in the cross are thought to represent the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Beneath him, two acolytes are seated, representing the transfer of sacred knowledge within institutions. Through these acolytes, the card also comes to represent following the path to knowledge and education. He is the masculine counterpart of The High Priestess.

To see the Hierophant in a reading is to embrace the conventional, for it suggests that you have a certain desire to actually follow a process which has been well established. It also suggests that you want to stay within certain conventional bounds of what could be considered an orthodox approach. So, instead of being innovative, you will be adapting to certain beliefs and systems which are already put in place and are existing. The Hierophant card suggests that it’s better for you to follow social structures which are established and have their own traditions

You might be involved in certain ceremonies, rituals or other religious trappings, for instance. This particular card is most commonly representative of institutions as well as their core values. This is a sign that shows that you need to conform to the already existing set of rules and situations which are fixed already.

Card Two : The Challenge

This card represents the immediate challenge or problem you are facing. This is the one thing that, if resolved, would make life a lot easier. Even if you draw a ‘positive’ card, it will still represent a challenge.

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE, REVERSED

The Wheel of Fortune is one of the most highly symbolic cards in the deck, filled with signs that each have its own meaning. At the centre of the card, lies a giant wheel, covered in esoteric symbols. There are different creatures that surround the wheel; the angel, the eagle, the bull and the lion. They are related to four fixed signs in the zodiac - Leo, Taurus, Scorpio and Aquarius. These four animals are also representatives for the four evangelists in Christian traditions, which is why they are all adorned with wings. The rim of the wheel represents the external world with all its chaotic unpredictability. The centre of the wheel represents your centre, the seat of your best self. If you can find you way home to your centre, then the random things that occur in the world outside of your control will not feel as disturbing.

The books that each of the creatures hold represents the Torah which communicates wisdom and self-understanding. The snake indicates the act of descending into material world. On the wheel itself rides a sphinx that sits at the top, and what appears to be either a devil, or Anubis himself arising at the bottom. These two Egyptian figures are representative of both the wisdom of the gods and kings (in the case of the sphinx) and the underworld (Anubis). They are rotating forever, in a cycle, and suggests that as one comes up, the other goes down.  If you wrap up your whole identity and self-worth with what everybody “out there" thinks at the rim of the wheel, then you will be doomed to emotionally rise and fall with each acceptance or rejection you receive. However, if you can reconnect with your centre (symbolized by the hub of the wheel), you can remain cantered, without taking the chaotic ups and downs of life personally. When you operate from your centre life no longer feels random, and you can control the direction of the wheel of your life.

Staying fixed at the edge of the wheel can get emotionally exhausting rather quickly. Good things can happen to awful people, and terrible things can happen to good people. Some people win the lottery without having done anything to deserve it. Others get hurt, through no fault of their own. In life, events rarely go “exactly” according to plan. These occurrences are outside of our control. However, we do have the ability to control how we respond to life. We each can choose to let our best-self handle the situation, or the part of ourselves where fear resides. The Wheel of Fortune appears when it’s time to take random things in stride. Good or bad. Fair or unfair. Don’t take random events in life personally. All you have control over is you and your chosen response.

When the wheel is reversed, it means that luck has not been on your side and misfortunes have been following you. When it's associated with this card, you must understand that these are due to external influences that you cannot control. Like the wheel, our luck and our fate is always in motion, and sometimes we are on the bottom. Be assured that the wheel will turn again, and you will be okay again soon.

It illuminates repetitive cycles, patterns and recurring life-lessons. Just as a wheel that moves in reverse brings a vehicle backward, so too the Wheel of Fortune reversed can take you back to an old life-lesson that seems to be repeating itself over and over. Getting frustrated at the repeated lesson is fruitless. The lesson is recurring because it holds the key to moving forward. Once you accept the lesson, and do the work on self-improvement, the wheel will begin to move forward once again. Surrounding cards may illuminate what this life-lesson is rooted in. Human lives are governed by cycles. Sometimes you are up, and sometimes you are down. The key is not to link your whole identity with the place you find yourself on the wheel at this moment.

It can feel frustrating when you eagerly wish to move forward, only to find that seemingly keep moving backwards. However, success is hardly ever arrived at in a straight line. The journey toward success bends, and curves and spirals. Like a spiral it sometimes looping back over itself. Sometimes you will feel like you are back where you started, with no progress being made.... but this is an illusion. Wisdom is accumulated with each cycle. Each time you revisit a challenge you know it more intimately and are able to see dimensions that were not apparent before. What you shouldn't do however, is cling to the illusion of control. Perhaps in this turn of the wheel, the lesson is to learn to let go and release. There are things that cannot be moved by human will and action alone. When we do not let go, it can bring only more suffering, for you may blame yourself for actions that could not have altered the situation. When we learn to accept, we also learn to forgive ourselves. We learn to move on, and move forward - and eventually, we learn that this feeling of acceptance can push the wheel again forward, and move it towards a new cycle.

Ask yourself what the Universe is teaching you through the cyclical patterns you are experiencing. Are you learning about your true worth? Perhaps you are remembering how to reclaim your courage. Often, revisiting the place you are stalled to reclaim the part of you that seemed lost, is just the remedy needed to begin progressing forward again.

Card Three : The Past

This card represents the events that have brought you to the present situation and may provide some indication of how the challenge came about.

THE DEVIL

This card shows the Devil represented in his most well-known satyr form, otherwise known as Baphomet. Along with being half goat and half man, the devil has bat wings and an inverted pentagram on his forehead. He is standing on a pedestal, to which are chained a nude man and woman, as if to show that he has dominion over them.  They are a "corrupted" version of the innocent and pure image of the man and woman that appear on the Lovers card.

Both the man and the woman have horns, as if to show that the more time they spend with the Devil, the less human they become. The chains make it appear as though the devil has taken them captive. The man has a flame on his tail while a woman has a bowl of grapes on her tail, which symbolizes their addiction to power and finer things in life, respectively. Looking closely, both the man and the woman don’t look happy.  Their individual power has been taken from them, leaving them exposed and ashamed in their nakedness. The chains they wear are quite loose. In fact they could step out of them at any time. This shows that despite the fearful size of the Devil, one can be free of him whenever they choose. When the Devil appears, this symbol calls your attention to the self limiting thoughts and behaviours that are keeping you imprisoned. You can be free at any time, but you must stop "rationalizing" these behaviours away and confront them honestly. The Devil highlights any untruths you may be telling yourself, which are keeping you from being the best version of yourself. You are more powerful than your inner shadow.

Nobody likes to confront the Devil. He represents our inner shadow self.... our Inner-Saboteur. This is the insidious voice within that tells us that we aren't worthy, that we can't be successful, that we are stuck with our lot. Often this voice pipes up, just before we are about to make a huge breakthrough. This voice comes as a final test, to see if we what we really believe about ourselves. The Devil is known by many names but by far the most fitting is the Prince of Lies. The biggest lie the Devil tells is that he is more powerful than we are.

How does your shadow manifest in your life? Do you struggle with self-esteem? Do you feel trapped in a situation that feels beyond your control?

Getting the devil card in your reading shows that you have feelings of entrapment, emptiness and lack of fulfilment in your life. You might be aware that this kind of lifestyle is leading you down the rabbit hole, but you have that feeling of not having any form of control over your actions or urges. In situations such as these, you may feel as though you are a slave, unable to control your impulses or willpower to direct yourself towards something other than the satisfaction of these desires.

The best way to defeat shadows is to embody love. Be loving to yourself and to others. Don't get hooked into defending yourself in the face of someone else's shadow. Lovingly help someone today. If you are feeling fear, help someone else feel braver. Challenge the lie that you are stuck. Send light and love to those people you can't quite seem to forgive. "Unhook" yourself from the Devil's chains.

By embodying your better angels, the Devil will lose all power.

Card Four : The Future

This card represents what is likely to occur in the coming weeks or months. This is not the final outcome, simply the next step on the journey.

THE STAR

The Star card shows a woman kneeling at the edge of a small pond. She is holding two containers of water. One container pours the water out to the dry land, as if to to nourish it and ensure its fertility. The lush green land around her seems to say that it is working. One foot is inside the water which shows the spiritual abilities and inner strength of the woman. The other foot on the ground shows her practical abilities and strengths. Behind her, there is a large central star surrounded by seven small stars which represent the chakras. There is bird standing at a tree branch which represents the holy ibis of thought. The Star's astrological correspondent is Aquarius.

The woman on the Star card has drawn the healing waters from the pool of the Universal collective. She is pouring some of these waters on the parched earth beside her, symbolizing a replenishment of her world, and the neglected parts of herself. What feels dry and parched in your consciousness? What needs replenishment and watering? The woman is taking some of the water for herself. She knows she is worthy, and it is wise to do so. By taking the gifts of the Universe to replenish herself, she will be able to share more of herself for the collective good. The woman is also pouring some of the water back into the universal pool. She is giving something back to the collective, to improve and enrich it. If she keeps returning some of the water to the pool, she will ensure it never dries up and will be able to draw future blessings from it when needed.

The Star brings hope, renewed power, and strength to carry on with life. It shows how abundantly blessed you are by the universe as evidenced by the various things around you. It may not be directly evident at the moment, for this card follows the trauma of the Tower card. Remember that you hold within you all that you need for your fulfillment - the only thing that you need is courage. For this, you have all reasons to rejoice. To see this card is a message to have faith, for the universe will bless you and bring forth all that you need.

To receive the Star in your reading means that you have gone and passed through a terrible life challenge. You have managed to go through this without losing your hope. While you suffered, you perhaps were not aware of your own strength, but you are now perhaps recognizing that the loss helped you discover your own resilience and inner power. It is only now that you can really appreciate all that you have.

Each of us possesses a light. This light is always sparkling within us. However, sometimes it is so buried beneath burdens, and layers of ego and fear, that it is hard to feel or see. Some people forget this light exists altogether, until they see a laughing baby, or are moved by a pivotal (sometimes traumatic) life event. The Star card reminds us that our inner light exists. When we draw from its eternal waters, we can bounce back from death and defeat, transcending all challenges. Knowing this, we come to understand there is really nothing to fear. If you continue to pass on blessings to others, you will always be blessed.

Card Five : Above

This card represents your current goals, aspirations, or a situation that is on their mind. It is what you are currently working or striving towards.

THE KNIGHT OF CUPS

The Knight of Cups is a card which depicts a young knight who is gloriously riding a white horse while holding a cup. He is the decks messenger of love. Unlike the Knight of Wands or the Knight of Swords, this particular one isn’t charging along with his horse. He is instead moving slowly forward which provides the entire setting an overall impression of peace and calmness. The horse is known to represent one's drive, energy, and power. The horse's colour is white, which is a well-known symbol of spirituality, light, and purity. He wears the wings of Hermes, the messenger god on his helm and his feet. Fish decorate his tunic. This symbolizes his ability to communicate clearly about deep unconscious feelings that can be hard to put into words. His main message is that communication about feelings heals isolation and confusion. The more difficult the subject, the more healing to be gained from talking about it. However, you must be brave enough to open your heart to others.

The truth is that the Knight of Cups is the most feminine amongst all the Knight cards in the tarot. It's important to note though, that this doesn’t even slightly suggest that he is any less of a worthy knight. It implies that he is in proper touch with his emotions and his intuition, and that he uses them for his own well-being and during his romantic quests. He is usually quite attractive and charming to others, regardless of their gender. This Knight can communicate his deepest feelings without fear or embarrassment. Everywhere he rides, love begins to flow. He represents all forms of love: romantic, passionate, platonic, and familial. He can reintroduce a lonely person into a world of friends and can bring renewed passion to an intimacy-barren relationship. This is because he does not let fear, embarrassment, or shame, keep him from opening his heart. He reminds those who believe they are alone, that they are connected, valuable, loved, and accepted. The Knight of Cups appears when it’s time to be emotionally courageous.

You might wonder why you would need to be brave to express love. Even people who have been together for years can find it difficult to express affection and intimacy. This is especially true if the heart has been wounded by a deep betrayal or loss in the past. The Knight appears to tell us that retreating further from others will never heal the heart. The heart mends when it is brave and open, allowing new experiences to take the place of past hurts

When faced with an actual decision, the Knight of Cups is going to listen to his heart, regardless of whether this is actually a logical choice or not. He can also manifest as an event or a person in your life, or a part of your own self. He appears as a messenger – and with him, he carries an invitation or an arrival of something or someone which is going to have a certain emotional benefit for you. As a knight, he is also charged with taking the gifts of his suit, and bringing it outward into the world. He therefore can also represent the undertaking of some project with significant emotional or creative value for you.

The Knight of Cups is eternally optimistic that the future will be brighter than times before. He knows that the heart is not as fragile as it pretends to be. It can heal amazingly but must be open to do so. Bring some passion and excitement back into your life.  Have confidence in your worth and stop being self-conscious. You worthy of love. You don’t need to be in an intimate relationship to begin healing your heart. The first step is to be brave enough to open it.

Card Six : Below

This card reflects your subconscious and delves much deeper into the core foundation of the situation. It symbolises the underlying feelings and trends associated with the situation and can indicate what is truly driving you. This card is deeply connected to your inner being. A reversed card here indicates something that is unknown to you.

THE TEN OF CUPS, REVERSED

On the Ten of Cups, there is a couple holding each other while facing a beautiful house and a green garden. Beside them, there are two children playing joyously. The couple is seen holding each other in a loving and romantic embrace, while the children are freely playing. The couple seems to be in a stable relationship, while also blessed with the abundance of a comfortable home and beautiful children. The green land signifies fertility, and the river shows how freely the feelings of the couple are flowing, meaning that their relationship is quite peaceful. Above in the sky, there are ten cups, shaped in an arc, which are meant to symbolize blessings from heaven. The rainbow behind them shows the end of hard times and sorrows, and a new happy life where each and every one of the family will enjoy. The Ten of Cups card depicts ‘having it all’.

From its joyful depiction, we can assume that the Ten of Cups embody happiness, joy, contentment and emotional satisfaction in your family, relationship or companion. It represents an idyllic state of comfort, harmony, peace and love which makes you feel like you are in paradise. This is where all your dreams, wants, needs and wishes have been fulfilled, and you feel a complete sense of satisfaction. Take a moment and breathe, look around you and be thankful for all your blessings. This card signifies something that so many of us are searching for. After learning how to love oneself, the Nine of Cups matured into the Ten of Cups, which at its core about how true happiness stems from forging authentic bonds and connections with others. This card is most associated with a sense of 'happily ever after' - of family, of lasting harmony and peace.

This is an indication of harmonious family, for the card shows you that you are living in the perfect peace. No more adjustments or shifting is needed, you are in the right, just relax and enjoy your moment. In a love reading, this card shows that it is romantic, real and genuine - and has a strong potential for something long term. It deserves all your effort to make it come true.

When the Ten of Cups is reversed, the strong bonds that one forges with family and community are broken, or twisted. The Ten of Cups is truly the most 'happily ever after' card, but somehow this idealized image of domestic peace and comfort is broken, or was unrealistic all along. Instead of connections, you may find distance. Instead of coming together, you may be pulling apart. Your hopes for happy times and special moments seem to not meet your expectations. You should learn to treat each other well, love each other and care for each other. This is the best way to ensure that you retain your harmonious living.

The Ten of Cups represents gratitude for the magic that's weaving through your life, right at this very moment. You can't see this magic if you are on autopilot, mad, stressed, or anxious. You can only perceive it if you choose to stop feeding tension, step out of your routines, and open your eyes to the miracles at play. When you open yourself to this magic, great things begin to happen in your life. This shimmering magic is darting about everywhere, but you may have to adjust your perspective to see it. When the Ten of Cups appears it’s time to open your heart to those you love most. Give them a hug and tell them how important they are. Acknowledge the love that is all around you and do something to increase it.

Card Seven : Advice

The advice card takes into account all that is happening within your life and presents a recommendation for what approach can be taken to address the current challenges.

THE ACE OF SWORDS

The Ace of Swords shows a hand emerging from the clouds wielding a double-edged sword. This double edged sword carries a golden crown while being encircled by a wreath. The wreath has for a long time been associated with victory, success and great achievement. The crown is used as the symbol for both royalty and the power to rule that comes with royalty.  Behind the foreground, the sword stands floating over a varied setting - which holds both mountains and sea, which are used as symbols of the vast reach and distant lands that the swords can be used to conquer, as well as ambition.

An olive branch dangles from the left side of the crown. This shows that your life will actually feel more "at peace," when you take action. This seems counterintuitive to our fears which tell us to avoid things that might create a conflict. However, inner turmoil comes from the avoidance of confrontation, not from taking responsibility.

A palm branch graces the right side of the crown. Palm trees are primordial, tough, and hearty. They can endure desert-like heat, and torrential hurricanes. This symbolizes that your personal strength makes you a lot tougher than you think. You can endure much more than you may be giving yourself credit for.

As with all the aces, the Ace of Swords indicates that one is about to experience a moment of breakthrough. With its sharp blade and representing the power of the intellect, this sword has the ability to cut through deception and find truth. In layman's terms, this card represents that moment in which one can see the world from a new point of view, as a place that is filled with nothing but new possibilities. It is, therefore, the best time to work on your goals - as the aces all give green lights, and are signals of waiting opportunities and new beginnings. It might also be a good time for you to seek justice and the truth in all matters since your conscience is clear, and your thoughts are swift. If you rise to the occasion, your sharpness and clarity in thought will be rewarded.

The Ace of Swords symbolizes reclaiming your personal power by taking charge of your life. Like all Aces, it symbolizes a new beginning is at hand. Your personal strength is like a sword, waiting to be drawn from a scabbard. When you grasp your power and wield it, you are capable of transforming your energy, from victim to victor. The Ace of Swords cuts through trance-like states of mind. It flashes with dazzling light, awakening you to embody your majesty. Do you feel your personal power has been depleted somehow? Are you avoiding something that you know will make things better if you just get the ball rolling? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, causing you to to feel uncomfortable with confronting a particular area of your life?

When we look at the swords closely, and see its double-edge, we are also reminded that this sword may be either used for noble deeds or to deal destruction. It all depends on the wielder, and is a warning too that excessive power holds the danger to corrupt. If you stick with principles, the sword will serve you well.

Card Eight : External Influences

This card highlights the people, energies or events which will affect the situation at hand and are beyond your control.

THE NINE OF WANDS

The Nine of Wands shows a weak-looking man holding on to a wand with 8 other upright wands standing behind them. The man looks injured, but he still seems ready to fight another battle, and desires strongly to win. He has a look of hope and determination about him that should help him go through that one last battle. It is a card that shows a mix of challenges, hope and triumph.

The Nine of Wands tarot card is one that symbolizes great hope even when one is faced by many problems that threaten to make them lose their balance. The Nine of Wands symbolizes one's life, which has undergone too many trials but through their determination and will, they were able to overcome them. These won battles are symbolized by the eight upright wands; however, there are still more trials that the person may face. This can be one major trial or challenge that they are supposed to face for them to reach their goals or be successful in their quest. The card is a sign of hope and encouragement that you should face your trials with courage so that you may attain success.

The Nine of Wands illustrates that you win at the game of life each time you have courage and stand up for yourself. This can mean creating boundaries with others who want to take you down a peg. However this card also requires you to stand up to your inner saboteur. The Nine of Wands symbolizes that a personal victory is achieved each time you stand up for your dignity, worthiness, and self-respect.

The Nine of Wands symbolizes a life of someone who has undergone many trials, but through determination and will, they were able to overcome them.

The Nine of Wands may also mean that a person has been betrayed and has thus become mistrustful towards others. This may be because of something that has happened a number of times, and might on the first glance seem hopeless. But there is also hope and courage here, and the belief that this outlook is about to change. Someone or something may come into their life that will change their whole view of their past struggles. It encourages one to take that risky move because they may be surprised.

Card Nine : Hopes And Fears

Hopes and fears are closely intertwined, therefore that which we hope for may also be that which we fear.

THE NINE OF PENTACLES REVERSED

The Nine of Pentacles depicts a woman in the middle of a vineyard. The woman wears what appears to be a long, luxurious dress adorned with sunflowers. She seems to be part of a wealthy house, for in the far background, we see a castle. A falcon is sitting peacefully and playfully on her left hand. The vines behind her are rich and filled with grapes and golden coins, signalling that she has been very successful in her ventures, which are yielding a great and plentiful harvest.

This Nine of Pentacles card indicates that the you have reached a stage in your life where you are confident, independent and self-sufficient. Through hard work, this person is now ready to enjoy money, leisure and material comfort.  The woman keeps the snail in her garden. This reminds her that in order to ensure that even more wealth flows, she needs to slow down, take care of her environment, and savour her current success.

The difficulties that were faced in the earlier journey of the pentacles appear to be over. The Nine of Pentacles conveys not only joy, but also the feeling of security and freedom that material wealth can bring. Looking back, you can now celebrate the difficulties, the struggles, and the hard work that lined your path. Her previous challenges gave her the wider perspective she needs to understand the spiritual value of her success. Knowing how difficult it was to get here, she intends to enjoy every single day that is given to her.

Like the other nines in the tarot, sometimes this card indicates that you have not yet reached completion in their journey. There is something that is missing here - the element of her community and relationships. The gifts of the suits are meant to be shared, and yet this woman is so far from home.

The Nine of Pentacles reversed can be indicative of suffering from financial issues. It can perhaps indicate a false display of security and stability. Take this as an opportunity for you to figure out what it is most important. The Nine of Pentacles reversed indicates a moment when one truly sees - perhaps for the first time, that we cannot depend completely on material wealth to bring happiness.

Other meanings of this card differ with context - you may instead find yourself at a period in life where you should be able to rest and relax after years of hard work, but you find yourself unable to unwind. In this case, rejuvenation is the ultimate advice of the Nine of Pentacles reversed. You need to take a few steps back and allow yourself to rest and regain your strength.

When the Nine of Pentacles appears reversed it calls your attention to anything that you are tolerating in your life that is beneath your personal standards of excellence. Often when you are immersed in a messy relationship, environment, or situation, you can slowly become numb to it. After a while you forget to even notice anything that is out of balance. This becomes the new normal.  Know that you deserve the best, and don’t feel you need to accept anything that undermines your sense of self-worth.

Card Ten : Outcome

This card is representative of where the current situation is headed and how the issue at hand will be resolved. It assumes the outcome based on continuing your current course of action. Of course, if the outcome card is not a desirable outcome, you may make the necessary changes to their situation.

TWO OF PENTACLES

The Two of Pentacles card depicts a man who is dancing as he is juggling two large coins. The pentacles are surrounded by the infinity sign that denotes that the person can handle all the issues the come his way and he can manage his life with grace. In the background, you will notice that there are two ships that are riding the giant waves, and they reinforce the balancing act that the man has to face - he is in rough and choppy waters, but manages to stay afloat. The Two of Pentacles depicts the usual ups and downs that occur in one’s life. Despite all the chaos that surrounds him, the man lives a very carefree life as he dances, and handles all that comes to him with joy.  The juggler on the card survives the undulations of fortune because he remains flexible and adaptable.

The Two of Pentacles is a card about balance - the coins are displayed in a manner that is precarious, any small change in wind or weight can tip and send them falling. For those that may have more coins to go around, they can afford to be less careful, but at this moment things may be tight. Wealth too, is a kind of energy, and it is the kind whose goings in and goings out are easiest and most tangible to see.

There is a possibility that you are trying hard to keep the two aspects of your life in a perfect and delicate balance. The balancing act depicted in the card suggests that there are two major factors that you are deeply concerned about. It is time for you to step back to have a better perspective of the situation. While you may initially think it will save you time, multi-tasking may just worsen the situation. Cut down on your tasks and concentrate on these two factors that are troubling you. You've done a good job keeping things stable, for you seem to be able to adapt well to all the changes that ask you to continually re-balance.

When it comes to love, the Two of Pentacles is associated with your inability to provide the energy and time required to make your partner happy. With regards to finances, you should pay heed on the bottom line. You should have a clear picture on your financial state. Plan your finances accordingly, control your expenditures and increase your stream of income to create a solid foundation for your future. In terms of health, this card is asking you to find a balance between your own well-being and your responsibilities. It's easy to make yourself the last priority when you have so many things happening around you.

[rottingflovver]

So I had this idea right... fyodor is an orthodox Christian, right? But what if his s/o was a pagan 🥺💕 they could make healing jars for him or manifest his goal for him!! I think like that’s a cute concept!! Would you mind making some HC’s :D? Please and thank you!!

THAT IS SO WHOLESOME?? I?? SOB??

For the record, I headcanon Fyodor as more atheist? Perhaps agnostic? But it's really hard to settle on it, given the fact that he himself has a huge god complex

BUT ANYHOW THIS ISN'T ABOUT MY THEORIES ABOUT HIM LET'S GET TO THE GOOD STUFF

He was intrigued by you from the beginning

Of course, he studied every religion known to man, but he wasn't aware paganism was still practiced today

"Whatever," he'd say, "as long as you recognize me as your True God, I will let this slide."

He acts mean about it, but he's genuinely interested in your worships and practices. And, needles to say, he's just a tiny bit concerned about how you view him because of his goal. Just a tiny bit.

But once you started making jars specifically for his healing, and even helping him manifest his goal; he calmed down

He'll observe the jars you made; asking about the meaning of each crystal, each herb, and what it's supposed to do

"I thought you studied this?" You'd ask, quietly giggling in a teasing manner. It was lighthearted; simple fun.

Fyodor wouldn't raise his gaze from the rose quartz in his hand 一 which he politely borrowed from your chest. Sprawled on his desk would be numerous of herbs, from lavender to basil, salts and spices. All that he was missing were flowers; he hadn't paid them any mind. "I did," he'd answer, "but I don't remember all of the details. After all...I never thought I'd come across a pagan, let alone date one."

After that, you'd spend hours upon hours giving all of your knowledge to him

If possible (and if you posses one) he'd like to skim over your Book Of Shadows. He never held a physical copy of it before

He doesn't necessarily enjoy hearing you talk about all the different gods and goddesses you connect with (yet again, severe god complex; he needs to be the only one in your eyes) but regardless, he'll listen with great attention

Maybe he's taking notes as to how to be a better "god" in the future? Who knows

In the same way, he'll ask you for a tarot reading, if you posses a deck

Once again, not like he really believes in it, but it's interesting to see (plus, he kind of just wants an ego boost)

If the cards turn out to be something negative, you'll have to explain to him about how they're only pointing out his own flaws, and what he should fix. Yeah...needles to say he'd get quite offended at that

It's the first time you'll see him being genuinely grumpy; it's kinda cute in a way

Regardless of his attitude and seeming disappointment, he'll continue to ask for more readings and get grumpy about it every time

He'll secretly try to change something in his routine, but like, he totally doesn't believe in any of this no way

Also, try casting a sleep spell on him or something

Trust me, he REALLY needs it

Imagine the two of you going outside at nighttime as you explain one of the moon phases to him, and him falling asleep on your shoulder

:((( too adorable

You'll no doubt have to carry him back inside, because if you wake him up he won't fall back asleep

Make him some tea with herbs in it, he'll appreciate it greatly

All in all, he's absolutely enthralled by you

And there you go!! :D!! I may have focused a bit too much on the wicca aspect of it all, but please excuse that it's cuz I practice it myself tbh

But I hope you're satisfied with it!!

[magnoliacrowned]

What are your favorite ways to connect with Michael?

Good afternoon,

It depends on what you mean by "connect." If you mean connection as in talk, I will most commonly use tarot. Funnily enough, Michael vibes the best with my Tarot of the Vampyres deck. I'm also looking into other methods of divination such as oneiromancy, lithomancy, or bibliomancy.

If you mean connection as in feel near to or get to know better, I have a number of things that I do. My christopaganism leans into Greek Orthodox, so I'm learning Greek. Michael seems to have a fondness for the small town where I live, so I often go walking and involve myself in local events and activism. Or I'll go driving with him and admire the scenery.

One of our favorite things to do is have a date night! I'll make dinner and we'll watch a movie while cuddling on the couch.

[apollotarot]

Full Moon in Aries 2021 Tarot Spread

We at Apollo Tarot share a tarot spread related to the zodiac sign the Moon is passing every New and Full Moon. Here is our Full Moon in Aries 2021 Tarot Spread for the October 20th Moon.

New Moon In Libra 2021 Tarot Spread

If you already know how to plan for your life using the Moon Cycles, please skip the quick intro below, and jump to the juicy part. But if you need a refreshment, here is how to use our Tarot Spreads according to the Moon's position.

Full Moon In Aries 2021 Tarot Spread - A Quick Intro:

We can align our intentions with the Moon's cycles to make the most out of its influence on us.

New Moons are perfect for new beginnings, starting projects, or growing them. Now Full Moons, and the period after it, are most suitable for a "draw-back." That's when we evaluate our accomplishments, reorganize, and plan for the next New Moon phase.

So, briefly:

New Moon: Set your intentions, and begin your projects;

Full Moon: Celebrate your achievements, and release what no longer serves you.

Since the Moon rules the emotional tone of a given moment, it's good to know her mood. Which is influenced by the zodiac sign the Moon is passing at the moment. The zodiac signs also indicate how well we do things.

Our New Moon Necklace glows in the dark while stating your intuitive gifts. Shop now here.

What are the energies involved in the Full Moon in Aries?

First, the good news: Mercury, the planet of communication, and Jupiter, the Great Benefactor, leave retrograde on the 18th (sighs in relief). This leads to much-needed renewed feelings of dynamism and vigor.

Still, there are other energies involved regarding this Full Moon in Aries 😅.

Uh, where should I start?

As we know, Pluto, currently in orthodox Capricorn, is the planet that represents turmoils and evolution. In a few words, this intense Dwarf Planet is a never-ending fountain of concentrated, transforming energy.

Now, the Sun, currently in Virgo, shows the focus of the moment, where the world's attention will be directed.

And, uh, I'm sorry to say, but the week kicks off with Sun and Pluto in tension, heralding an intense week.

But wait, there's more.

Mars, the warrior planet of self-defense and action, will also square Pluto at the Full Moon In Aries in the middle of the week (20/Oct).

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At the end of the week, Sun arrives at the sign of Scorpio to start an even more intense and profound journey towards our inner world.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is a dynamic, explosive astral configuration that presents risks and requires caution.

During this Full Moon in Aries, it is essential not to put yourself in riskier situations and avoid attitudes that could bring about ruptures or extreme conditions.

Still, if a decision has already been made and it is time to act, go ahead with all the care and responsibility you can.

Situations – and relationships – that are hanging by a thread can be broken. Challenges can arise where we least expect them. Collectively, these also tend to be troubled days, with everyone's emotions on edge as well as nerves.

Avoid doing what is not necessary and taking hasty actions. Pay attention not to hurt people you care about by being selfish or aggressive. These are days to carefully observe what we are feeling. Ohmmm 👌😑👌.

Think carefully and maturely. Put into practice the reflections made during retrograde Mercury and Jupiter.

When in doubt, wait, and don't give up on your most essential values. This Full Moon in Aries, let's take it easy!

As Adele, on her new single, well put it:

🎤 Go easy on me, baby! 🎶

Three cards spread - New Moon in Libra Tarot Spread:

Now, to make the most of this Full Moon in Aries, start shuffling your favorite tarot deck, and ask the cards:

Full Moon in Aries 2021 Tarot Spread

Where in my life am I being hasty or insensitive?

What lessons did I learn during Mars and Jupiter Retrograde?

What is the best way to slow down and be in contact with my feelings and inner self?

As an extra activity, you may want to pick The Emperor Card from your tarot deck and meditate or reflect on its power, as this card correlates with Aries.

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Share your Full Moon in Aries 2021 Tarot Spread with me!

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[infjtarot]

Hanged Man ~ Deck of the Bastard Tarot

In ancient times, hanging a person upside-down was a form of torture combining pain and humiliation. Often it was used on people with non-orthodox beliefs. In the Roman empire it was applied to Christians, and in medieval Spain to Jews and Muslims. But in the hanged man’s inverted view everything is upside-down: suffering for your faith isn’t a humiliation, but a great honour. Many authors saw this card as a representation of Jesus on the cross or connected it to other sacrificed gods such as Odin in the Norse mythology. Odin hanged himself on the world tree Yggdrasil, looked down into the depths of existence, and thus discovered the magical Runic letters. The card can also remind us of a bungee jump, whose origins are in a rite of passage of native islanders in the Pacific ocean. The Hanged Man receives a punishment In some old Italian decks, the card is called “The Traitor.” This may be a reference not to Jesus, but to Judas Iscariot who hanged himself on a tree after betraying Christ. In such a view, the querent may be receiving punishment for an improper or unacceptable action he has done. The punishment might be inflicted by an external source, or the querent might be chastising himself for real or imaginary faults. Even if we forgo the traditional link between hanging and punishment, the hanged man is clearly in an unpleasant situation. The wooden frame encircles and isolates him from the surroundings and from other people. The red tips of the cut branches indicate sharpness and aggression, pointed outward (to others) and inward (to himself). The card can also describe a feeling that “everything is upside-down,” meaning that one doesn’t understand anymore what is going on in one’s life. The Hanged Man makes a sacrifice The mythological link to a god who sacrifices himself motivated many authors to see the card as an expression of giving up one’s personal interests for the sake of a higher cause. In some new decks, this interpretation is emphasized by a calm expression and a halo of light around the head. Perhaps the querent accepts the process of undergoing difficulties or renouncing vital interests for the sake of someone else, for some political or ideological cause, or as part of some process of spiritual initiation. The Hanged Man refrains from action The hands of the hanged man may be tied behind his back or held there by choice. Either way, they signify a passive acceptance of whatever comes. The hanged posture and the surrounding wood frame give no space for manoeuvre. The 12 tips of the branches may symbolize a whole range of possibilities, like the full circle of the zodiac. Their cutting can signify giving up all possible ways of action. There is pain involved with the relinquishing of all initiative, as the red tips which look like blood drops indicate. The card may describe the querent’s being in a helpless and paralyzing state. Alternatively, he may be reacting to a complex situation by giving up any action and accepting whatever happens, even if it turns out to be the inverse of what he expected. The card can thus indicate surrender and reconcilement with reality as it is. Alternatively, it can describe the emotional state of regarding oneself as a passive and helpless victim, either to avoid taking responsibility for one’s situation or as a means for emotional extortion. The Hanged Man sees the world upside-down The hanged man’s position seems distressful, but this is only a matter of perspective. As he is hanging upside down, his point of view is the inverse of the normal perspective. The card has no landscape except for the green ground on the sides, which can also resemble treetops. This may hint that it is impossible to decide which is the correct point of view – the hanged man’s, or the accepted views held by people outside his frame. We can also find some similarities between this card (number 12) and the central figure in The World (21) in an inverse position. The card may describe a unique person who sees things in his own way. It can also be encouraging the querent to think in original and nonconformist terms, which may be opposed to the common logic. If an inverse card is beside the straight hanged man card, it may be that from the special perspective of the querent, what is usually seen as a handicap or a crisis can look like an advantage or an opportunity. The Hanged Man accepts being different When The Hanged Man is held inverse we have supposedly returned to the normal situation with the head up. But now the figure gives a very strange impression. The figure remains enclosed and isolated, with a sense of lacking a hold on the ground. We can see here a futile attempt by someone to be “normal” and to conform to common values at all costs. In contrast, in the upright position with the head pointing down, the card depicts him recognizing the fact that he is different so that the standard solutions are not valid for him. Instead of making hopeless efforts to “straighten himself up,” he accepts himself as he is, and strives to make the best of his unique qualities. The Hanged Man examines the depth The horizontal axis of earthly reality is completely blocked by the wood frame on both sides. The vertical axis is also blocked from above, and the only direction open is through the hole in the ground. This can mean that the only way to advance is to refrain from action and to engage in a profound self-examination. It can also hint at deep knowledge, like the mysterious runes in Odin’s story, or “the depth of the matter” in some situations. Symbolically, hanging with the head down means giving up all previous assumptions, including the self-evident distinction between up and down. This means that unlike The Hermit, who seeks truth while taking for granted his existing beliefs, The Hanged Man is ready to put everything in question. The uneasy position and the isolating frame indicate readiness to pay the price of personal difficulties and social reclusion. Similar to the passage rite of the bungee jump, this can also be some kind of test or initiation Yoav Ben-Dov. Tarot - The Open Reading    

[tzviaaaaz]

So I pulled some cards as a guide to help me define the ways that I can best navigate this return process. I won’t get too deeply into my view on divination and tarot at this time. I use them and will likely be doing so for a little while longer. Whether I phase out the tarot in favor of a different tool remains to be seen!

I’m still kinda meditating on what I drew.

Before I share my interpretation, think it’s interesting that the first two cards face me (the querent), while the other two face the future (yeah I still read my cards from left to right for chronology bad bad)

I’m super drawn to that little arch in the Ace. It’s like this path...The Path....and the Queen and the Hand (Hamsa, Hashem in his fullness) gesture to it. I also notice the flowers ... white flowers that look like lilies...which I immediately associate with my ancestors.

The Hierophant — Synagogue / Shul / Minyan / Clergy. Pretty straightforward

Chariot — well, the first thing I think of is quarantine in opposition to the energy of the Chariot. Some aspects of this process will have to wait until the chariot can ride. It also suggests that my way forward may not be temperance, but harnessing those opposites and keeping them separate. I think of my love for super orthodox style davening and aspects of mysticism/haredi Judaism as one side, and my love of earth-based practices, Jewish Renewal and Reconstructionism on the other. And they are what will propel me forward. But separately. And possibly simultaneously.

Queen of Swords — female aspect of G!d / Shekhinah. King of Swords has always been the voice of Hashem in my deck. She is his counterpart.

Ace of Pentacles — paired with the queen of swords, this affirms the two opposites that i identify as pulling the Chariot: the mysticism and orthodoxy on one side, earth based and renewal on the other. Cerebral and fruitful. The fact that the Sword card is the Queen (and Shekhinah) heightens the feminine aspect of this card.

It also indicates investment. Education—especially when joined with a Sword next to it. Time. It does remind me a bit of tzedakah, which is very central to my sense of Jewish identity.

[hexprecious]

Four of Swords : Sanctuary