The Classic 78 Card Tarot Deck

The classic 78 card Tarot Deck: The classic tarot deck has 78 cards. There are many variations to decks in both number, card and suit names, and design. These facts will help you to understand your deck more clearly and as you become more experienced you may want to experiment with other types of deck. There are 2 main parts to a deck: The Major Arcana which consists of 22 cards The Minor Arcana which consists of 56 cards The word ‘Arcana’ is taken from Latin and means ‘secret’. An individual card can be referred to as an ‘Arcanum’.

The Minor Arcana: The 56 Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits, much like traditional playing cards. These are Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles.

Some of the suits may have other names: Wands are also known as Rods or Batons Pentacles are also known as Coins or Discs Each suit has numbered cards 1-10, and 4 court cards: Page, Knight, Queen and King Astrological elements and signs associated with each suit are: Wands – Fire – Aries, Leo, Sagittarius Cups – Water – Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces Swords – Air – Gemini, Libra, Aquarius Pentacles – Earth – Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus Wands are associated with career, work, and creativity Cups are associated with emotions and affairs of the heart Swords are associated with our thoughts and intellect Pentacles are associated with money and material matters We will cover the Minor Arcana cards in lessons 4-9.

Homework:

Spend the next week studying this information on the Major and Minor Arcana using your cards. It will certainly give you a broad base of understanding, as a foundation to build more detailed knowledge of the Tarot deck in the coming weeks. Which court card is your astrological card? Queen – adult woman of any age King – men aged 35 or over Knight – men aged under 35 Page – a male or female child or adolescent

The Fool

Element: Air. Planet: Uranus.

Positive associations with this tarot card:new beginnings, optimism, spontaneity, fearlessness, excitement, visionary, joy, inventiveness. Negative associations with this tarot card:naïveté, thoughtlessness, immaturity, lack of responsibility, impulsiveness, lawlessness. Expect the unexpected when The Fool turns up in a reading, influences that could have a dramatic affect on the decisions and choices you make. When The Fool appears it is a time for new beginnings, a journey perhaps into the unknown that will be exciting and fun. Any trials along the way will make you a more experienced and perhaps wiser person. If The Fool falls in the first position of a reading exercise caution - it could indicate fool hardiness or perhaps the question you are asking is the wrong one or you are asking it for the wrong reasons.

The Fool can also represent a person in a reading, if so be prepared to meet a real maverick, an eccentric with lust for life. The Fool represents the untapped potential in all of us. 'Fools rush in where angels fear to tread' however sometimes it can be wise to'Look before you leap'.

The Magician

Planet: Mercury. Positive associations with this tarot card:action, power, originality, confidence, individuality, willpower, new beginnings, potential. Negative associations with this tarot card:trickery, deception, lack of selfconfidence, indecision, abuse of power. The Magician is an excellent omen symbolizing new opportunities, the importance of new enterprise and that you will have the willpower and initiative to succeed in whatever you do. The mercurial nature of The Magician means that you will be able to think on your feet and bluff your way through any difficulties. Negatively this card represents trickery or deception and is a warning to be careful of whom you place your trust in. Another negative aspect of The Magician is that it may suggest that you are lacking in selfconfidence and being indecisive.

The high priestesss

Positive associations with this tarot card:intuitiveness, understanding, wisdom, mystery, psychic ability, the divine feminine. Negative associations with this tarot card:lack of intuitiveness, emotional insecurity, secretiveness, hidden obstacles or opponents.

The High Priestess is the guardian of secrets so when she appears in a reading it can mean a secret is to be revealed or there is a secret you wish to be revealed. Symbolizing our intuitiveness and the realms of our unconscious, the High Priestess is our guide to our inner self and potential. When the High Priestess appears it suggests you should trust your instincts, let your intuition be your guide. she may even represent a person who will provide wise counsel and advice. In a man's reading the High Priestess can represent the most important woman in his life. Negatively the High Priestess can represent emotional insecurity and the danger of being tempted to use emotional blackmail. Another negative aspect is that a secret is being kept from you, perhaps unknown obstacles or opponents.

In a man's reading the negative aspect of this card could represent a woman who is a bad influence on him.

Positive associations with this tarot card:fertility, birth, motherhood, harmony,

nature, prosperity, joy, love, artistic ambition.

Negative associations with this tarot card:domestic upheaval, emotional blackmail,

over-protectiveness, poverty, infertility, unwanted pregnancy, surpressed artistic expression. The Empress symbolizes love, reassurance, prosperity and birth so when she appears in a reading in a favourable position she is a very welcome card. She can represent pregnancy or actual birth of a child however she can also represent the creation or birth of a creative project or involvement with nature. Negatively The Empress can signal that you, or a woman in your life, is being too protective for comfort and may even resort to emotional blackmail to get what she wants. She may indicate money worries and a need to handle your finances carefully. Another negative aspect of The Empress is that she can symbolize infertility or unwanted pregnancy.

Astrological Sign: Aries. Positive associations with this tarot card:achievement, authority, protection,

support, trustworthy, discipline, provider, consolidation, reason, willpower. Negative associations with this tarot card:weakness, immaturity, failed ambition,

status driven, tyrannical, untrustworthy.

The Emperor is a sign of achievement and honour and in many cases can represent a stong male influence such as a father, husband/partner or man of significance in your life, or person of authority such as a boss. When he appears in a reading he can suggest that a man of authority or significance as outlined above will stand by you and support you, in personal as well as business matters. When The Emperor falls in position in a reading that refers to you he suggests that you will be able to influence people and have a great sense of your own authority. Negatively The Emperor can mean that either you or a man of influence in your life is using bullying tactics and being overbearing, an abuse of power. Another negative aspect of this card is failed ambitions, a craving for status and insecurity around a man of authority.

Astrological Sign: Taurus. Positive associations with this tarot card:advice, wise counsel, spiritual

consolation, knowledge, identification, faith, conformity, tradition. Negative associations with this tarot card:misinformation, lack of faith, deviousness,

bad advice, confusion, disorderly conduct.

The Hierophant is a symbol of moral law, a wise and capable advisor, a practical instructor and spiritual guide. He also represents the more conventional, tried and tested traditional values, therefore advising on more conventional thinking rather than novel approaches. The Hierophant may actually represent a teacher, priest or advisor but is more likely to symbolise moral lessons to be learned from events. This card can be an indicator of marriage or a desire for marriage, as well as point to legal resonsibilities and official documents. Negatively The Hierophant can symbolize feeling stifled by others wanting you to conform to their expectations rather than being yourself, and not wanting to take more traditional options. however there is an upside to this negative aspect of the card that can mean making your own rules.

Another negative aspect of this card is that he can represent confusion, a crisis of faith or self belief that results in disorderly conduct.

Astrological Sign: Gemini.

Positive associations with this tarot card:desire, new lover, relationships, physical

attraction, love, sex, commitment. Negative associations with this tarot card:lust,

moral lapse, temptation, indecision, seperation, failed love affair, emotional loss. The Lovers can symbolize that a new love is going to enter your life even if you can't see where from - you're in for a surprise . This is a card that symbolizes an importance choice that could affect the rest of your life. The Lovers symbolizes a choice between duty versus your heart's desire, take a risk and it could lead to greater happiness and emotional fulfillment, stay dutiful and life will remain the same. This card means that your heart rules your head and a dramatic change of attitude will lead to happier times.

Negatively the Lovers can represent an unhappy love affair or relationship yet you are unsure what decision or choice to make. Another negative aspect of this card is that it can represent intense temptation and warns of being unfaithful to your own morals.

Astrological Sign: Cancer.

Positive associations with this tarot card:triumph, movement, change, self-belief,

assertiveness, good news. Negative associations with this tarot card:rage,

tyranny, overinflated ego, selfishness, arrogance, delays, frustration. The Chariot symbolizes conflicts ending in victory, so advises sustained efforts if in a current struggle or facing one, as you will win in the end. This card also heralds unexpected good news and represents self reliance and belief in your own abilities. Travel and change is indicated by The Chariot as well as representing a vehicle - if in a favourable position it could mean you'll get that car you've been wanting!. Negatively The Chariot can mean that either you or someone of influence around you is being a bully, arrogant and selfish.

Another negative aspect is that it can represent frustrations and delays or travel plans that don't go well.

Astrological Sign: Libra. Positive associations with this tarot card:justice, truth, integrity, balance, arbitration,

responsibility, fairness.

Negative associations with this tarot card:prejudice, injustice, bad judgement, bias,

bad advice. When The Justice card appears in a reading it can represent justice, fairness and equilibrium in all dealings with people, so it's a good omen concerning partnerships, business deals and legal issues. This card can also signify the righting of a wrong that has been done to you in the past, or you seeking justice for another. A karmic card that heralds good fortune and reward for past efforts even if you are unsure why you are being favoured. Negatively The Justice card represents injustice, business deals that flounder, legal decions that won't go your way even if you are morally right. Another negative aspect is that it can symbolize bad judgement and receiving bad advice.

Astrological Sign: Virgo. Positive associations with this tarot card:introspection, solitude, guidance, advice,

patience. Negative associations with this tarot card:obstinacy, suspiciousness, fear,

impatience, folly, arrogance.

When The Hermit appears in a reading he symbolizes a need for careful consideration of issues and possibly a desire for peace and quiet and solitude. He warns against making hasty decisions and recommends taking advice from someone you trust before making any decisions. Concerning health, The Hermit indicates a time of convalescence and rest. Negatively The Hermit can imply arrogance and obstinacy, suspiciousness and a refusal to accept advice when help would be beneficial. Other negative aspects of this card are impatience leading to bad decisions and loneliness. Planet: Jupiter. Positive associations with this tarot card:destiny, movement, vision, good luck, new

cycle, synchronicity.

Negative associations with this tarot card:obstacles, temporary bad luck, unpleasant

surprises . When The Wheel of Fortune appears it heralds a new cycle in life, good luck and fortune. it is fate that has brought this into your life rather than your own doing. This card heralds an end to current problems and rewards for past efforts. Negatively The Wheel of Fortune is obviously turning in the opposite direction and heralds a time of misfortune and unpleasant surprises, however this is temporary - as the wheel turns downwards, in time it will turn up.

Astrological Sign: Leo. Positive associations with this tarot card:strength, willpower, compassion, patience,

courage, triumph, fortitude. Negative associations with this tarot card:cowardice, fear, inertia, defeat, loss of

opportunity. When the Strength card appears it represents not just physical strength but the ability to cope

with extreme pressure and win through in the end. If ill health has been an issue this card indicates rapid recovery, if considering giving up an unhealthy habit such as smoking or drinking this card indicates a good time to start. The Strength card signifies triumph over most things; challenges in your relationships or career, even defending yourself against jealousy, ignorance and oppression . Negatively this card represents insecurity, fear and giving up, perhaps being beaten by unfair means. The Strength card warns of missed opportunities and not to give up when you could be so close to the finish line

Element: Water. Planet: Neptune. Positive associations with this tarot card:transition, flexibility, rebirth, deliverance,

release. Negative associations with this tarot card:materialism, inflated ego, lack of

willpower, easily influenced, martyrdom.

The Hanged Man symbolizes self-sacrifice, whether that be material or emotional, an ability to adapt to changing circumstances. This card can represent a time of limbo or a pause in life until something or perhaps someone is given up for greater gain. The Hanged Man can represent ill health, stress and anxiety, this is a time for patience and not worry. This card represents a trial of passage and hence the self-sacrifice aspect of this card has spiritual overtones. Negatively The Hanged Man symbolizes selfishness, the use of emotional blackmail by playing the martyr. Another negative aspect of this card is that a weakness of will may lead you in a wrong direction, materially, emotionally and lead to missed opportunities

Astrological Sign: Scorpio. Positive associations with this tarot card:endings, transformation, clearance,

sweeping change. Negative associations with this tarot card:stagnation, loss of opportunity, loss of

friendship, fear of change. Without a doubt it is this card that causes most fear in a reading and yet it rarely, if ever,

symbolizes actual death, more a time of absolute endings and absolute beginnings. Whilst The Death card can represent rather shocking or unexpected events or changes, they usually clear the way for a brand new start and a greater value for life itself. Out with the old and in with the new, a time of transformation is another way of looking at this card. Negatively there isn't much difference, other than you may have a greater sense of fear and dread. when this card appears it's time to show what you're made of. Another negative aspect of The Death card is stagnation, resisiting change when change is essential which may lead to lost opportunities.

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius. Positive associations with this tarot card:harmony, health, moderation,

compromise, peace, self-control. Negative associations with this tarot card:impatience, lack of foresight, conflict,

quarrels, domestic strife. When the Temperance card appears it symbolizes self-control, the ability to handle volatile factors and so bring about a positive result.

This card heralds a time of harmonious relationships, peace and harmony a time to be enjoyed. Moderation is the key and spirituality will bring comfort. it can be said that this card represents an angel or guardian spirit looking over you. Negatively Temperance represents over indulgence, lack of foresight, impatience, conflict and quarrels causing domestic strife. This card warns of making hasty decisions out of impatience that will thwart your progress.

Astrological Sign: Capricorn. Positive associations with this tarot card:permanance, commitment. Negative associations with this tarot card:entrapment, lust, greed, ignorance, anger,

tyranny, obsession. The Devil is not all bad, if marriage or commitment to a relationship is under consideration and this card falls in a favourable position in a reading The Devil is a good omen. Regarding most other issues this card is not a very positive one. The Devil symbolizes lust of the flesh, temptation and addiction which don't tend to lead to favourable outcomes. Concerning relationships this card can warn against obsession or people that are no good for us and prompts you to to examine the situation carefully. The Devil stands for a warning against the destructive consequnces of your actions motivated by greed, lust and power.

More positively, the Devil can be a sign that you are gaining control, or at least awareness, of your weaknesses or addictions. Always consider your motives when The Devil appears, it is a helfpul indicator for you to change course whilst you still can.

Planet: Mars. Positive associations with this tarot card:re-

evaluation, necessary change, a blessing in disguise.

Negative associations with this tarot card:sudden change, downfall, disruption,

disaster. After the Death card and the Devil, The Tower is likely to be the card that causes most fear and constenation. It's hard to find a positive side to this card, however, it tells you that the unexpected shock and upheaval of events will create new opportunities and make you a stronger and wiser person. The Tower represents sudden and sometimes shocking changes in events and can often represent problems or delays relating to your home or the purchasing of home. Whether material or emotional upset, this card encourages you to see that such upheavals can force new directions that can be more beneficial. Negatively The Tower represents unecessary suffering. You may be falsely accused of something and suffer some form of imprisonment or isolation, or you may be the

one causing the shock and change with a rebellious attitude. The main thing to remember with this rather unpleasant card is that this phase will pass and that a new direction or new opportunities can be created from it.

Astrological Sign: Aquarius.

Positive associations with this tarot card:hope,

generosity, serenity, wishes coming true, good health, spiritual awareness. Negative associations with this tarot card:self-

doubt, lack of trust, cynicism, pessimism. The Star is a welcome card bringing insight into the future, optimism and hope, renewal of faith and unexpected gifts!. When considering a new relationship or enterprise The Star is an excellent omen. This card heralds good times for many things, artistic or educational endeavours, travel, health and spiritual awareness or development. Negatively this card warns against the perils of self-doubt and negativity that may lead to lost oportunities. However even with the negative aspect of this card you will be surprised with good luck despite your cynicism.

Astrological Sign: Pisces. Positive associations with this tarot card:imagination, unexpected possibilities,

illumination. Negative associations with this tarot card:fear,

confusion, highly charged emotions, bewilderment, lies, deceit. When The Moon appears you can be sure it will be a time of highly charged emotions and confusion .

Despite any fear you may have, the wan light of The Moon will illuminate the way, and even if the path you are on is tough, all will turn out right in the end. Upright and in a favourable position in a reading this card is a good omen if you are involved in a clandestine affair, otherwise it may signify that your secret may be exposed. The Moon can lead to artistic expression through art, writing or music, which may lead to unexpected opportunities. Negatively this card stands for lack of progress because of deep rooted fears and anxieties. It tells of failure of nerve, it also warns of lies and deceit - perhaps this is the cause of your worries.

Planet: Sun. Season: Summer. Positive associations with this tarot card:happiness, greatness, enlightenment,

vitality, good health, love, fulfillment. Negative associations with this tarot card:misjudgement, delays, potential failure,

inflated ego. Simply one of the best, if not the best, cards in the Tarot. The Sun is a most welcome card and a signal of very happy, joyous times.

This card can represent holidays, good news around children or perhaps news or the conception or birth of a much wanted baby. The Sun heralds a time of fun with friends and family and agreeable companionships and relationships. Ultimately The Sun dispels negativity and promises of a happy ending. Negatively The Sun perhaps suggests delays to your plans or achievements and does warn against arrogance and misjudgement caused by an inflated ego.

Element: Fire. Planet: Pluto. Positive associations with this tarot card:rebirth, rejoicing, absolution, new

potential, rewards for past efforts. Negative associations with this tarot card:guilt,

loss, self-reproach, delays, fear, obstinacy. The Judgement card heralds a time of accomplishment and rewards for past efforts.

Taking stock of ones life and consideration of a brand new phase in life. If there has been ill health this card signals a recovery with a new lease of life. The Judgement card brings an opportunity which, once given, must not be ignored, a new project or decision could change your life. This card generally speeds up events in your life. Negatively this card warns of obstinacy and a refusal to move with change when change is essential, which only causes delays. you will experience fear of nearly everything, fear of change, illness, perhaps even death. Another negative aspect of the Judgement card warns of self doubt and guilt over past mistakes - this will only blur the way forward.

Planet: Saturn. Positive associations with this tarot card:fulfillment, completion, satisfaction, joy,

wholeness, success. Negative associations with this tarot card:stagnation, lack of will, impatience,

delays. The World heralds the arrival of your heart's desire, whatever that may be, a time of achievement, recognition, success and triumph.

This card signals a time of enjoyment, of holidays and travel, time with loved ones, a fulfilling relationship is on offer and spoiling yourself with the material things you've been wanting. The World also marks the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. Negatively, The World points toward delays and that you may still need to overcome some challenges before you suceed, so don't give up so close to the finish line. Don't be lacking in vision or feel insecure, success will soon be yours.

Ace of Wands - Fire - positive: creativity, originality, fertility, new beginnings - negative: frustration, greed, overconfidence

2 of Wands - Dominion - positive: earned success, partnership - negative: futility, pride without humility, worthless goals

3 of Wands - Established Strength - positive: new ventures, conviction, partnerships - negative: lack of nerve, frustration, personality clashes

4 of Wands - Perfected Work - positive: satisfaction, completion, new home - negative: decadence, snobbishness, impatience

5 of Wands - Strife - positive: conflict, competitiveness, struggle - negative: fraud, defeat through devious means, acrimony

6 of Wands - Victory - positive: victory, fulfilment, great news - negative: suspicion, delayed news, anxiety

7 of Wands - Valour - positive: challenges, courage, ultimate success - negative: indecisivenes, lost opportunities, timidity

8 of Wands

- Swiftness - positive: activity, travel, action - negative: delays, impetuous action, poor judgement

9 of wands - Strength - positive: inner stength, self-assurance - negative: obstinacy, avoidable delays, suspicion

10 of wands - Oppression - positive: pressure, over commitment - negative: deceit, burdens, abuse of power

Ace of Cups

- Water - positive: contentment, faithfulness, creativity - negative: barreness, lost love, despair

2 of Cups - Love - positive: partnership, love, understanding - negative: separation, divorce, betrayal

3 of Cups - Abundance - positive: fertility, happiness, creativity - negative: sex without love, self obsession, exploitation

4 of Cups - Blended Pleasure - positive: re-evaluation, familiarity - negative: fatigue, overindulgence, depression

5 of Cups - Loss in pleasure - positive: reassessment - negative: worry, futility, sense of loss, bad luck

6 of Cups - Pleasure - positive: harmony, happy memories, the past shaping the future - negative: nostalgia and inability to face reality

7 of Cups - Illusionary success - positive: imagination, choice, aspirations - negative: self-delusion, deception in matters of love

8 of Cups - Abandoned success - positive: change, breaking of ties, development - negative: restlessness, dissatisfaction, unrealistic goals

9 of Cups - Material happiness - positive: emotional stability, kindliness, happiness - negative: complacency, vanity, finding fault in others

10 of Cups - Perpetual success - positive: commitment, peace, love - negative: antisocial behaviour, disruption of routine

Ace of Swords - Air - positive: victory, mental clarity, necessary change - negative: injustice, misuse of power, destruction

2 of Swords - Peace restored - positive: friendship in adversity, peace of mind, equilibrium - negative: tension, deceit, disharmony

3 of Swords - Sorrow - positive: new beginnings - negative: heartache, discord, acrimony

4 of Swords

- Rest from Strife - positive: healing peace, withdrawal - negative: exile, isolation, depression

5 of Swords - Defeat - positive: acceptance - negative: treachery, spite, deceit

6 of Swords - Earned Success - positive: brighter future, respite, a journey - negative: procrastination, failure to face up to problems

7 of Swords - Unstable effort - positive: diligence - negative: lack of nerve, indecision, confusion

8 of Swords - Shortened Force - positive: patience - negative: depression, hard work with little reward, restriction

9 of Swords - Despair & anxiety - positive: none - negative: deception, disappointment, misery, isolation

10 of Swords - Ruin - positive: none - negative: desolation, ruin, continued suffering

Spend some time with these cards and think about how you would convey negative messages to someone without knocking their

confidence. How you can be truthful yet always convey hope and encouragement.

Ace of Pentacles - Earth - positive: security, wealth, recognition - negative: greed, self-obsession, superficiality

2 of Pentacles - Harmonious Change - positive: changing fortunes, journeys, foresight - negative: distractions, inconsistency, impending trouble

3 of Pentacles - Material works - positive: recognition, teamwork, prosperity - negative: delays, critisism, bitterness

4 of Pentacles - Earthly power - positive: contentment, emotional and material security - negative: greed, indecision, material obsession

5 of Pentacles - Material trouble - positive: none - negative: financial loss, unemployment, hard times

6 of Pentacles - Material success - positive: charity, prosperity, balance - negative: loss, careless money management

7 of Pentacles

- Success unfulfilled - positive: perseverance, sustained effort, eventual success - negative: failed opportunities, despondency, self induced money problems

8 of Pentacles - Prudence - positive: change in fortune, craft skills, satisfaction - negative: lack of direction, squandered opportunities

9 of Pentacles - Material gain - positive: material success, achievement, solitude - negative: devious means, financial instability

10 of Pentacles

- Wealth - positive: inheritance, wealth, family ties, emotional security - negative: financial problems, family restrictions

Page of Wands - Astrological signs associated with this card are Leo, Aries and Sagittarius - this card can represent a child - male or female - appearance - brown hair, blue or hazel eyes - positive characteristics - loyal, enthusiastic, hard working - negative characteristics - spoilt, impatient, hyperactive possible event - lots of messages and communications, careful consideration of your next move as you may not have all the facts. A possible reunion with an old friend or lover.

Knight of Wands - Astrological signs associated with this card are Leo, Aries and Sagittarius - this card can represent a young man less than 35 years of age - appearance - fair hair, grey or blue eyes - positive characteristics - vigorous, athletic, unpredictable - negative characteristics - argumentative, violent, jealous possible event - dramatic changes in events; a move of home, travel possibly overseas

Queen of Wands - Astrological signs associated with this card are Leo, Aries and Sagittarius - this card can represent a woman of any age - appearance - red/fair hair, brown or blue eyes - positive characteristics - warm, practical, homely yet independent - negative characteristics - overbearing, matriarchal, vindictive

possible event - being over reliant on others, where being introverted or shy is thwarting your progress

King of Wands - Astrological signs associated with this card are Leo, Aries and Sagittarius - this card can represent a man aged 35 or over - appearance - red/fair hair, hazel or grey eyes - positive characteristics - traditional, fair and courageous - negative characteristics - autocratic, prejudiced, intolerant possible event - a need to develop psychological balance and gain wisdom. Ideals and practicalities will merge, enabling you to act with integrity

Page of Cups

- Astrological signs associated with this card are Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces - this card can represent a child - male or female - appearance - fair/brown hair, brown or blue eyes - positive characteristics - loving, caring, creative - negative characteristics - selfish, scheming, insecure possible event - easy to fall head over heels in love, but be careful of giving your heart so readily. Take heed of a friends advice as the object of your desire may not be all that they seem. Can also mean a need to study for exams.

Knight of Cups - Astrological signs associated with this card are Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces - this card can represent a young man less than 35 years of age

- appearance - fair/brown hair, grey or blue eyes - positive characteristics - enthusiastic, artistic/creative, passionate - negative characteristics - devious, immoral, faithless possible event - sudden changes in your emotional state, instant attractions and amorous relationships are indicated. Negative event - your feelings may be abused by a fickle lover.

Queen of Cups - Astrological signs associated with this card are Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces - this card can represent a woman of any age - appearance - brown/brunette hair, blue or bown eyes - positive characteristics - artistic, affectionate, intuitive - negative characteristics - disloyal, unfaithful, vain

possible event - being over emotional allowing your heart to rule your head, behaving irrationaly. Wanting to make a gesture to show your affection for someone.

King of Cups - Astrological signs associated with this card are Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces - this card can represent a man aged 35 or over - appearance - fair hair, blue eyes - positive characteristics - charming, life and soul of a party, good mediator - negative characteristics - self centred, treacherous, secretive possible event - diplomacy may be required as you may have to act as mediator between two factions. Negative event - you won't be able to persuade rivals to come to an understanding.

Practical Exercise for this week

Now it's time to practice the 3 card reading. You need only remove the court cards of Swords and Pentacles, as you should now be getting to grips with the rest of the deck. You can also try a reading with just the Wands and Cups suits. This will be a reading focused on love and relationships, and work and career, but hey isn't that what most of us are interested in?! Ok, Ok, some of us are also interested in Money, but we aren't doing the Pentacle Court cards till next week.

Page of Swords - Astrological signs associated with this card are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius - this card can represent a child - male or female - appearance - fair hair, blue eyes - positive characteristics - intelligent, loyal, truthful

- negative characteristics - devious, sarcastic, critical possible event - changes and important decisions will be made by you or others, possible legal disputes, someone may have it in for you and you may be the victim of slander and malice

Knight of Swords - Astrological signs associated with this card are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius - this card can represent a young man less than 35 years of age - appearance - dark hair, dark eyes - positive characteristics - courageous, intelligent, witty - negative characteristics - reckless, impetuous, headstrong possible event - conflicts, whirlwind events that leave you confused and feeling everything and everyone seems to be unpredictable

Queen of Swords - Astrological signs associated with this card are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius - this card can represent a woman of any age - appearance - fair/brown hair, grey/green eyes - positive characteristics - intelligent, independent, perceptive - negative characteristics - critical, devious, insincere possible event - you will need to concentrate very hard on focusing on yor goals and objectives to overcome obstacles, if negative you'll try and resort to manipulation which will back fire on you

King of Swords - Astrological signs associated with this card are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius - this card can represent a man aged 35 or

over - appearance - black/dark hair, dark eyes - positive characteristics - rational, authoratative, wise - negative characteristics - bullying, calculating, impersonal possible event - you will find the ability to take charge of your life, if negative you will feel controlled by others Page of Pentacles - Astrological signs associated with this card are Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus - this card can represent a child - male or female - appearance - brown hair, brown/dark eyes - positive characteristics - conscientious, honourable, loyal - negative characteristics - lazy, greedy, impatient possible event - prudence, and careful money management is required as finances are short.

Any news about money though will be good news.

Knight of Pentacles - Astrological signs associated with this card are Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus - this card can represent a young man less than 35 years of age - appearance - brown hair, brown/dark eyes - positive characteristics - practical, hardworking, truthful - negative characteristics - smug, complacent, lazy possible event - improvements in your financial situation but patience is required, if negative you will have some temporary set backs financially Queen of Pentacles - Astrological signs associated with this card are Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus

- this card can represent a woman of any age - appearance - black/dark hair, dark eyes - positive characteristics - financially responsible, down to earth,compassionate - negative characteristics - materialistic, suspicious, insecure possible event - too much worry about financial matters, being overly protective of others.

King of Pentacles - Astrological signs associated with this card are Virgo, Capricorn and Taurus - this card can represent a man aged 35 or over - appearance - black/dark hair, dark eyes - positive characteristics - patient, trustworthy, practical - negative characteristics - materialistic, insensitive, jealous possible event - resolute action will lead to financial gain, good fortune in money matters,

if negative you may have strong opponents working against you.

Spreads Part I It isn't always necessary to use all 78 cards when you do a Tarot reading. There are many ways to use the cards. for example you could use ... - the Major Arcana - the Minor Arcana - Aces and Major Arcana - Aces and Minor Arcana - Court cards and Minor Arcana - Court cards and Major Arcana

If you do a little research by studying different Tarot books and other web sites, you'll discover hundreds, if not thousands of different spreads and card combinations - you can even create your own mix of cards and your own spreads!

In lesson 12, I'll be covering guidelines for reading the Tarot in a little more detail, but for now I'll simply outline a couple of basic pointers to help you get started. Card Positions and Orientation: 

Some people read the cards differently, depending on whether they are reversed (upside down) or upright. This is a personal preference and one you need to decide for yourself. Personally, I choose to get a feel from the spread as a whole, to guide me as to whether a card is indicating its negative or positive interpretation, and I ignore whether a card is reversed or not.

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You can do the same, but if you find that difficult, you can read upright cards as positive in meaning and upside down (reversed) cards, as negative in meaning.

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Intepreting the relationship between cards in their various positions is a little more difficult. Many books do give some guidance on this, and I recommend Jonathan Dee's excellent 'Tarot an illustrated guide' for this reason.

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For now, simply understanding what each card indicates in a particular position in a spread will enable you to give a reasonable reading The Client:

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When you read for someone, this person can be referred to as 'The Querant' or 'The Enquirer' and they should shuffle the cards.

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When they have finished shuffling you can spread the whole deck and ask them to pick the appropriate number of cards, or you could split the deck into 3 smaller packs and get them to pick a pack they are most drawn to. I choose to do the latter, but you can feel free to find your own way for the querant to pick their cards.

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Many people feel quite nervous when they come for a reading, especially for the first time, or if they are feeling distressed about something. Find your own way to make them feel at ease.

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I do this by explaining the process and what I believe the tarot is all about. I explain each of the spreads I use and often explain the meanings of the cards. However, many Tarot readers feel it is better not to do this, and only convey the message they see in the cards. It's up to you to find your own

way of working with the tarot and with the people you read for.

So, let's move on to some spreads. You've been working with a classic 3 card spread, so let's use this same reading to create a new one ... by using it twice!

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Spread 1. The Choice Reading - 6 cards This is ideal when a querant has to choose between 2 options, for example Should I stay married or should I leave

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my spouse? Should I go out with Steve or Michael? Should I become a lawyer or a hair stylist? You get the idea! Simply ask the querant to shuffle the cards and pick 6, and then spread the cards as below:

Card 1

Card 2

Card 3

Card 4

Card 5

this 1st row represents their first choice

this 2nd row represent second choice

You then read each row as you would the 3 card reading you've been practising: 1st card is - influences from the past 2nd card is - advice 3rd card is - outcome. The idea of the spread is to help guide the querant to the most positive or favorable choice. Of course both options could lead to seemingly equally negative or positive outcomes, in which case you can do an additional spread for clarification. This could be ... Spread 2. Guidance Reading - 4 cards In this situation, you could use the guidance reading to ask for more information on each option. Lets say that Option 1 was: 'Should I go out with Steve?' Lay the cards out like this:

Card 1

Card 2

Card 3

Read the cards like this: 1st card is - the current situation 2nd card is - what is going for you 3rd card is - what is going against you 4th card is - the outcome

After finishing this reading, shuffle the cards again and do the same for Option 2: 'Should I go out with Michael?' If they still both have a similar outcome, then you have more work to do, or perhaps your querant will decide to go out with both of them! The 4 card Guidance reading can be used to ask any question, it doesn't need to relate to a choice. You could use it to get a feel for what's going on around the querant generally, or to ask a specific questions such as:-

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"will I have love in my life soon" "will my finances improve" "will I sell my house" OK, so now you have 3 spreads to work with:Classic 3 card spread 6 card 'choice' spread 4 card 'guidance' spread

The cards should be laid out as illustrated below:

card 5

card 3

card 6

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cards 1&2

card 4 Card 2 lays horizontally across the top of Card 1 (it should look that way in the diagram, but some older browsers may mess around with the layout!) The card positions relate to the following:Card 1 - your current circumstances Card 2 - what is blocking you or holding you back Card 3 - your conscious thoughts Card 4 - your subconscious thoughts Card 5 - influences from your immediate past

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Card 6 - your immediate future (closely linked with the outcome card) Card 7 - how you see yourself Card 8 - how others see you Card 9 - your hopes and fears Card - 10 outcome (closely linked with the immediate future card)

The 4 Aces - 12 cards This is a great spread. I really enjoy using it, as it helps me understand what is most important to the person I am reading for. Extract the 4 aces and the Major Arcana from your deck. Ask the querant to shuffle the 4 aces and give them back to you, then they shuffle the Major Arcana and pick 8 cards and give these to you. You then lay the out the cards like this:

MA 1

Ace 1

MA 2

MA 3

Ace 2

MA 4

MA 5

Ace 3

MA 6

MA 7

Ace 4

MA 8

Place the 4 aces in order first - placing the major arcana cards either side as shown. This is a reading based on another traditonal 3 card reading: Past, Present and Future. Ace of Wands represents work, career, effort Ace of Cups represents emotions, love life Ace of Swords represents troubles and concerns

Ace of Pentacles represents money, material issues This tells you what issues are most important to the querant, for example if Ace 1 was the Ace of Cups followed by the Ace of Swords, Ace of Pentacles and Ace of Wands, you would see they are more concerned about their emotional state, love life, and troubles than about money and work.

OK, so now you have another couple of spreads to work with, but feel free to do your own research and find the spreads you feel most comfortable with and most want to use.