Cards and Their Associated Meanings

Collected articles on the the history and culture of playing cards.
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Cards and Their Associated Meanings

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Cards and Their Associated Meanings


Table of Contents


Tarot Cards and the Cards of Today

The Four Suits

The Aces

The Twos

The Threes

The Fours

The Fives

The Sixes

The Sevens

The Eights

The Nines

The Tens

The Jacks

The Queens

The Kings


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Tarot and the Playing Cards of Today

There is a common misconception that Tarot cards were the source of todays 52 card deck. In actuality, around the year 1420 in Italy, additional picture cards were added to the regular deck of the time, as Trump cards, in order to expand the possibilities of game play. The expanded deck was called Trionfi (Triumphs), then Tarocchi, Tarock, and finally Tarot in French. The ancestor of our current Tarot was a convergence of medieval art and symbolism, religion, folk culture, and gaming, and was used to play a game similar to Bridge. The use of Tarot cards for the occult and fortune telling started in the late 1700s, well over 300 years later.

Since the Tarrochi deck was developed in Italy it used the Latin suits of the region, Swords, Cups, Batons, and Coins, which have become the Swords, Cups, Wands, and Pentacles used in modern Tarot decks. The four French/International suits of Clubs, Hearts, Spades and Diamonds correspond directly with the Latin suits as follows:


Clubs ===== Polo Sticks/Wands
Hearts ===== Cups
Spades ===== Swords
Diamonds ===== Coins/Pentacles

Early Trionfi decks were of several types and had varying numbers of cards. A modern Tarot deck has 22 Major Arcana (the added picture cards) and 56 Minor Arcana (a regular deck with 4 court cards in each suit) for a total of 78 cards. The fool is a singular card that is not considered one of the Trumps so it's number in the deck is "0".

The Major Arcana are:

  • 0. Fool
    1. Magician/Juggler
    2. High Priestess/Popess or Papess
    3. Emperess
    4. Emperor
    5. Heirophant/Pope
    6. Lovers
    7. Chariot
    8. Strength
    9. Hermit
    10. Wheel of Fortune
    11. Justice
    12. Hanged man
    13. Death
    14. Temperance
    15. Devil
    16. Tower
    17. Star
    18. Moon
    19. Sun
    20. Judgement
    21. World


The minor Arcana are more or less the same as our regular playing cards, except for the court cards. Most of us only know the courts as Kings, Queens, and Jacks.
In the Tarot deck the courts are:

  • Kings
    Queens
    Knights
    Pages


Long before someone thought to use the Tarot for divination, rather than just an alternative card game, standard decks of cards were used for Cartomancy. In fact ever since they first appeared over 600 years ago they have been used to find meaning and see the future. Here you will find a collection of the meanings and portents that have accumulated around each of the 52 cards.


**This post revised by dazzleguts November 5, 2014.
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Suits

Clubs (also known as: wands. staff, spear, rod)
Element: FIRE
The suit of inventors, adventurers, inpirational speakers and those with a lot of zeal. It is the suit of excitement and impatience, hot pursuits, grand ideals and gestures and the desire to make a mark on the world.

Clubs or wands indicate hot tempers, passionate desires, charisma, competitiveness, and enthusiasm.


Hearts (also known as: Cups, chalice, caldraurns, bowls)
Element: WATER
The suit of emotions. Usually represents romantic love life/affairs, our warm connections with our loved ones, family, friends etc.. Enableling the creation of art forms like poetry and paintings, music and dance.
Over indulgence in food, drink and drugs.
Cups/hearts indicate the search for beauty and divine love.



Spades (also known as swords, knives, daggers, blades)
Element: AIR
The suit of the mind and the voice. Sharp ideas, Sharp tongues, thinking things through and thinking and saying too much.
The suit of cleverness and a love for facts. "Swordplay" in the sense of solving problems and performing calculations, discussions and debate.
The suit is also however a suit of gossips, braggarts, liars and slanderers, which also makes it a suit of anxiety, worries, problems and troubles.


Diamonds (also known as: pentacles, coins, disks)
Element: EARTH
This is the suit of health, money, luck and work. The suit of the physical. It relates to our body, our home, our valuables. All that we consider solid, real, and of this world. For this reason Pentacles represent the pragmatic, common sense side of life like the job/work we do to put food on the table and the money we save up to pay the bills. Not surprisingly, however, Pentacles can also indicate indulging in luxuries, those things that money can buy.

The slow-growth, long-term suit, the suit about creating something real rather than seeking excitement like Wands, or theorizing like Swords or dreaming of romance like Cups. Hence, Pentacles stand for the bankers and business owners, the craftsmen, farmers, shopkeepers and laborers. Those who see their worth in something they have built, be it a corporation or a bakery.

This is also a suit about social interaction and responsibilities. Which is why, in regards to feelings, it is a suit about greed vs. generosity, about doing what enriches only ourselves vs. what enriches others. It's also about what one has or doesn't have, and how that affects how others view us. Thus it is as much a suit about how we respond to being lucky or wealthy as it is about luck and wealth.
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Aces


Ace of Clubs


- CREATIVE FORCE
- ENTHUSIASM
- CONFIDENCE
- COURAGE


The Ace of Clubs is a symbol of possibility in the area of creativity, excitement, adventure, courage and personal power. It shows that a seed of bold enthusiasm has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form - it might be a creative idea, surge of optimism or need to act boldly. On the outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.


Ace of Hearts

- Emotional forces
- Intuition
- Intimacy
- Love


The Ace of Hearts (Cups) is a symbol of possibility in the area of deep feelings, intimacy, attunement, compassion and love. In readings, it shows that a seed of emotional awareness has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form. It might be an attraction, strong feeling, intuitive knowing, or sympathetic reaction. On the outside it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.





Ace of Spades

- MENTAL FORCE
- TRUTH
- JUSTICE
- FORTITUDE


The Ace of Spades (Swords) is a symbol of possibility in the area of intelligence, reason, justice, truth, clarity and fortitude. It shows that a seed of clear understanding has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form. It might be a compelling idea, desire for the truth, call to justice, or a need to be honest. On the outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.



Ace of Diamonds

- Material Force
- prospering
- practicality
- proceeding with trust


The Ace of Diamonds (Pentacles) is a symbol of possibility in the area of prosperity, abundance, trust, security and groundedness. A seed of productivity has been planted and it could take almost any form. It might be a feeling of centeredness, desire for results or need to focus on practical matters. On the outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.

The Ace of Diamonds can indicate the possibility of dreams (hopes/wishes) coming true. Ideas That are ready to be turned into something tangible. Figure out what will work and make it a reality.
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Two



Two of Clubs
  • - PERSONAL POWER
    - BOLDNESS
    - ORIGINALITY
This card is usually about making a choice. Clubs are passion, and passion is not something that works when split - it requires a single focus. This card indicates a choice about where to put your energy and passion. The Two of Clubs glorifies individual courage and greatness. This card taps the same energy as the Magician in the Tarot, but with one important difference. The Magician represents the archetype of power - the impersonal energy of creativity and strength while the Two of Wands stands for that power brought down to Earth and made personal.


Two of Hearts
  • - CONNECTION
    - TRUCE
    - ATTRACTION
The Two of Cups shows the beauty and power that is created when two come together.
This card can stand for the union of any two entities - people, groups, ideas, or talents. In readings, the Two of Cups tells you to look for connections in your life, especially those that are one-on-one. Now is not the time to separate or stay apart. It is the time to join with another and work as a partnership. If you are in conflict, look for truce and the chance to forgive and be forgiven. If you are struggling with two choices or tendencies within yourself, seek to reconcile them.



Two of Spades
  • - BLOCKED EMOTIONS
    - AVOIDANCE
    - STALEMATE
The Two of Spades represents the barriers we put up between ourselves and others, and those we create within ourselves. Internally, we block off emotions and refuse to feel them. We avoid looking at the truth and pretend that everything's OK. We think one way, but feel another. In countless ways, we divide off parts of ourselves and try to maintain them even when we know they need to be reconciled.
The Two of Spades is usually about the unwillingness to accept some truths about yourself or a situation. Denial.



Two of Diamonds
  • - JUGGLING
    - FLEXIBILITY
    - FUN
(by far this is my favourite "2")
The two of diamonds is a very positive card. In the Tarot version there is an infinity sign that symbolizes a juggling act between 2 to an infinite number of things. This cards reminds us to be flexible, adaptable, enjoy life and go with the flow.
The Two of Diamonds is also a symbol of fun, laughter and good times. It is definitely a high-energy card. If you are feeling tired or depressed, this card may be a sign that greater vitality will be yours
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Three



Three of Clubs

  • - EXPLORATION
    - FORESIGHT
    - LEADERSHIP


This is the card of vision and foresight. It can indicate premonitions, or other intuitions of things to come. This card represents the courage to explore new territories, trying something new that is way beyond one's comfort zone. Courage with foresight is the making of a great leader, so this cards also points to great leadership.

Three of Hearts
  • - EXUBERANCE
    - FRIENDSHIP
    - COMMUNITY
This card can represent community - the network of support created when we interact with others. It can be any group in which the members feel a bond. When you see the Three of Hearts, examine your attachments to the groups in your life from an emotional point of view and consider reaching out to give or receive help. This card stands for all forms of support, including formal aid such as counseling, and other social services.
The Three of Cups can stand for a mood or experience that makes you feel like dancing and singing.



Three of Spades
  • - HEARTBREAK
    - LONELINESS
    - BETRAYAL
Three of Spades often represents the nasty little curve balls that life can throw. Betrayal, abandonment, rejection, separation, a reversal of fortune. These hurts are painful because they hit you when you least expect them.



Three of Diamonds
  • - TEAMWORK
    - PLANNING
    - COMPETENCE
In the opening of the film Mission Impossible, a crack team of specialists is working on a dangerous assignment. The members of the team are mapping out a strategy, coordinating resources and drawing on their skills and ingenuity to complete the mission. This is the Three of Diamonds in action: teamwork, planning and competence.

The Three of Diamonds is one of the cards that focuses on the group. As Diamonds are grounded and practical, this card represents a task-oriented team - people who are working cooperatively toward a common goal. There are few jobs that can be accomplished alone. We need the help of others to achieve our goals.

This card can also show a need for planning and preparation. Now is not the time to rush into something or begin a project with only a vague idea of what it's about. You need to think everything through, go over all the possibilities, and make sure you work out the details. Do your homework and your undertaking will flourish.

Another feature of the Three of Diamonds is competence - the ability to get the job done. How rare this is nowadays! This card tells you that you have the skills and knowledge you need. You can attract capable people and create a successful environment. Know that the situation is (or will be) in good hands, but be sure to concentrate on excellence in your work. Be proud of what you do and how you do it. Then you will accomplish your "impossible" mission.
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Four




Four of Clubs
  • CELEBRATION
    FREEDOM
    EXCITEMENT

The Four of Clubs often represents the events and experiences that generate excitement. These vary from person to person, but the stirring feelings are the same. Sometimes such times arrive unexpectedly and the Four of Clubs can signal a surprise or a spontaneous thrill. Other times this card represents planned celebrations, such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and victory parties. These events have their solemn side, but they are also a chance to feel the joy of living.

The Four of Clubs often means freedom. Freedom can take many forms, but it always brings with it an exhilarating feeling. When we break the bonds that bind us, whether physical, mental or emotional, we feel triumphant and able to move on to a new period of growth and happiness. If you feel trapped or restricted right now then use the energy of the Four of Clubs to launch yourself into freedom. Do not be afraid to claim the open vistas that are rightfully yours.




Four of Hearts
  • SELF-ABSORPTION
    APATHY
    GOING WITHIN
The Four of Hearts represents periods of self-absorption.
If you are self-absorbed, you tend to refer everything back to yourself - your own interests and desires. The Four of Cups can indicate that you are wrapped up for the moment in your own world.
It can represent a positive period of self-reflection and renewal, but the Four of hearts is also sometimes a sign of apathy.


Four of Spades
  • REST
    CONTEMPLATION
    QUIET PREPARATION
The Spades (swords) all stand for trials of some kind, but the Four suggests feelings of peace and stillness. It represents the challenge to be quiet! Sometimes resting and doing nothing is the ultimate challenge. Activity can be a habit that is very difficult to break. There is always so much to do, and modern society beguiles us with its attractions and distractions. The result is we forget to stop and be still.
The Four of Spades also represents taking the time to think things over without hurry. It is important to step back and gain perspective. This is especially true when you are facing an ordeal or big event. You need quiet preparation time to gather your strength and center your energy.


Four of Diamonds
  • POSSESSIVENESS
    CONTROL
    BLOCKED CHANGE
The Four of Diamonds can stand for issues of ownership.
It also implies blocked change. It's as if a stubborn little man in the card is thwarting your every move. Opposition may come from those who want to maintain the status quo.
The lesson of the Four of Diamonds is that control is impossible. We stand in the world as in a great ocean. Who could manage or possess such power? The only way to keep from drowning is to ride the currents. The ocean will support us as long as we swim with the flow.
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Five



Five of Clubs
  • DISAGREEMENT
    COMPETITION
    HASSLES
The Five of Clubs represents times when your environment seems to be fighting you. Nothing flows smoothly; everyone is working at cross-purposes. There is no coordinated effort, no agreement. When this card shows up be prepared for a bumpy ride. The Five of clubs does not represent major blockages, just many small and irritating ones.
This card also stands for competition. In the right circumstances competition is useful. It fosters extra effort, generates excitement, and encourages the best.




Five of Hearts
  • LOSS
    BEREAVEMENT
    REGRET
The Five of Hearts is about loss. The Five of Hearts refers to that time when the pain of a loss is most acute. The loss could be great or small. It could be tangible (money, possession, relationship, work), or intangible (dream, opportunity, prospect, reputation)
You may feel discouraged by this card, but it does have a positive side. Every loss opens new possibilities for growth because every loss initiates change. Loss hurts because of our emotional resistance to change. No matter how much we accept intellectually that we must go with the flow, if that flow separates us from what we love, our feelings say "No!"




Five of Spades
  • SELF-INTEREST
    DISCORD
    OPEN DISHONOR
The Five of Spades is about self-interest. Society tells us to think of others, yet we resist. How can we ignore our own concerns and still survive? This dilemma comes from our definition of self. If we view our self as our personality/body, our interests become those that relate to that self. Do I have enough to eat? Am I happy? Do I have all I want?

We may expand our concern to those we love, but how can we stop there? We are connected to everyone in the long run. In truth our self is the world. What we do to that world, we do to ourselves. This understanding is so basic, but so infuriatingly easy to forget day-to-day.

The Five of Spades can mean that you or someone else is forgetting this larger view of self. You are defining your interests too narrowly. If you try to get ahead in isolation your actions will come back to haunt you later, one way or the other.
Sometimes this card implies a need to put your own interests first. If you are being abused or taken advantage of, you must get free. If you are worn out by demands, take care of yourself. If it is your turn, step forward and claim your due. Just be aware that if you hurt others in the process your victory will not feel complete.
The Five of Swords also represents hostility - from a cross word to warfare. When the cords that bind us are broken, we experience dis-cord. This card can signify dishonors that are fairly open. Cheats, lies, tricks, deceits, even crimes. You may be on the receiving end, or be the perpetrator. Either way it's time to hold to a larger view of who you are. Find the solution that is best for everyone...including yourself.




Five of Diamonds
  • HARD TIMES
    ILL HEALTH
    REJECTION
The Five of Diamonds can represent several kinds of lack. First, there is poor health. It is hard to tackle life's challenges when we do not have our vitality and strength. This card can be a signal that you are neglecting the needs of your body. You are moving away from complete physical well-being, so you must take steps to discover and correct the problem.

This card can also be a sign of material and economic setbacks. There is no doubt that life is harder when we lack money or a decent job. When we are struggling to make ends meet, all other problems are magnified. Even if we are comfortable we can still feel insecure, afraid that misfortune will take away all that we have worked for.

The Five of Diamonds can also represent rejection or lack of acceptance. We are social animals and feel pain when excluded from our group. We want to be included, not only for our emotional well-being, but also for mutual support. Being rejected can mean physical hardship as well.
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Six



Six of Clubs
  • TRIUMPH
    ACCLAIM
    PRIDE
The Six of Clubs represent moments of victory and triumph. Sometimes in life all we want to do is win - to be number one. You can see this dream in the faces of athletes, politicians, and other champions as they step into the winner's circle. It's all been worthwhile. I'm the best. I've won!

The Six of Clubs also represents a healthy self-esteem. Feeling good about your accomplishments is an important part of success, but too much pride can lead to arrogance and self-inflation.




Six of Hearts

  • GOOD WILL
    INNOCENCE
    CHILDHOOD
The Six of Hearts is a card of simple goodness. It encourages you to be kind, generous and forgiving. It also represents innocence - a word with many shades of meaning. You can be innocent in the strictly legal sense of lack of guilt. You can be innocent of the truth - unaware of some secret. You can be lacking in deceit or corruption - innocent of ulterior motive. Finally, you can be virtuous or chaste.
Often this card represents a baby or young child. In a larger sense, it embraces all of childhood and the feelings we associate with youth (ideally!) - being carefree, playful, secure and loved. Children are our treasure, and the sweetness of the Six of hearts is a quality to be treasured as well.




Six of Spades

  • THE BLUES
    RECOVERY
    TRAVEL

Sometimes this card represents a dull, listless state. Nothing is seriously wrong, but nothing is really right either. You're getting by, but not thriving. Life is indeed uninteresting when we feel the blues.
In a more positive vein, the Six of Spades can indicate recovery. This is especially true when you have just experienced a tough time or psychological blow.
Although the Six of Spades does not promise great joy, it also avoids the depths of despair. A slough is not a bottomless pit, but simply a hollow or depression. When you see this card, know that even though the situation is not ideal, you are moving toward a more positive place. Change is in the air, and new, more hopeful conditions lie ahead.



Six of Diamonds
  • HAVING/NOT HAVING:
    RESOURCES
    KNOWLEDGE
    POWER
The Six of Diamonds is a difficult card to describe because it falls in the shadowy area between the lack of the Five of diamonds and the affluence of the Ten of diamonds. These two cards represent the extremes of not having and having. The Six of diamonds covers the huge middle ground where it is not clear exactly who has what.
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Seven



Seven of Clubs
  • AGGRESSION
    DEFIANCE
    CONVICTION
The Seven of Clubs is all about taking a stand. Taking a stand is a forceful act that changes the energy flow of the world for good or ill. Most of the time we flow with our lives as if on a river. Events and feelings carry us forward with little effort. Sometimes, though, we are not content to drift. We want to resist the flow, or change its course entirely!

The Seven of Clubs stands for aggression and defiance because they are two sides of the same coin. You attack; your opponent defends. He counterattacks; you defend.

The Seven of Clubs can also indicate strong convictions. In order to take a firm stand you must believe in your position and yourself. You'll need integrity and strength of character to see you through. If your cause is just, use the energy of the Seven of Clubs to make a difference.




Seven of Hearts

  • WISHFUL THINKING
    OPTIONS
    DISSIPATION

The Seven of hearts provides the balance. This card stands for all that is sloppy, impractical and lax.
The Seven of Cups can lead to harmful patterns of decadence, addiction and self-indulgence.



Seven of Spades

  • RUNNING AWAY
    LONE WOLF STYLE
    HIDDEN DISHONOR
The Seven of Spades is tied to the Five of Spades because both cards involve separation from others.
This card sometimes represents the "lone-wolf" style - the desire to run lone and free. In films, the lone-wolf hero always acts totally on his own. He discovers, investigates and solves every problem using only his own wits and resources. He believes he's successful because he ignores the fumbling efforts of ordinary people.
The Seven of Spades can also indicate a hidden dishonor - a choice you or another has made that does not do justice to the highest.


Seven of Diamonds

  • ASSESSMENT
    REWARD
    DIRECTION CHANGE
The Seven of Diamonds is a time-out card. It represents those moments after a rush of activity when we stop to catch our breath and look around. The Seven of diamonds can indicate a reward that will come your way, particularly as a result of your own efforts. Take it and enjoy.

The Seven of diamonds can also indicate a crossroads. In life there's a tendency to continue with familiar routines, and to go in a new direction isn't easy. The Seven of diamonds may be telling you to figure out if you need a course correction, or even a complete about-face. You're not yet committed to a certain path, but you could be soon. Change is still possible.

The Seven of diamonds is not a card of endings or final decisions. The game is not over, but only on hold for a moment. Once you've gotten your breath back and checked your strategy, be ready to jump back in and work even harder than before.
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Eight


Eight of Clubs
  • QUICK ACTION
    CONCLUSION
    NEWS

The Eight of Clubs is often a sign that now is the time to declare yourself. All the elements are ready and will work for you as long as you don't hesitate. The iron is hot - so strike! If events are in motion, they will proceed rapidly.
The Eight of Clubs also stands for the arrival of news or information. You may see or hear something important. The news could show up in a disguised form, so stay alert.
This card also signifies endings. Sooner or later all activities run their course. The eight clubs on this card not only symbolize putting events into motion, but also bringing them to a close. They appear to be ending their flight by coming down to earth.




Eight of Hearts

  • DEEPER MEANING
    MOVING ON
    WEARINESS

The Eight of Hearts stands for those moments when we realize, once and for all, that the past is gone. What was true is no longer true. The signs of change are in our face, and we must accept them. It is time to move on.
Some changes can be wearying. Endings are not always easy. One of the signs of a readiness to leave is lack of energy. When you feel tired and dispirited, you know that something is wrong, and it's time for a new direction. Reexamine your life and your priorities. You will find where in your life you need to move on.



Eight of Spades

  • RESTRICTION
    CONFUSION
    POWERLESSNESS

The Eight of spades represents the feeling of being lost or alone because we are blinded by circumstance and bound by restriction around us. The feeling is that the more we try to struggle, the more we trap ourselves in our own fears and trouble, and that no matter what we choose we'll end up on the path of sorrow.



Eight of Diamonds

  • DILIGENCE
    KNOWLEDGE
    DETAIL
This card often implies a time of great diligence and focus. It advises you to hammer away at the business of the moment, whether a work project, family difficulty, personal goal or unpleasant duty. The Eight of diamonds represents moments when you must give 110%. Just buckle down and do it.
The Eight of Diamonds can also symbolize the impulse to learn - to broaden horizons (to use an old-fashioned term). Sometimes we need to develop new skills. We do research, dig out facts, or search for expertise.
This card can also show the need for meticulous attention. People who are painstaking are often dismissed as nit-pickers, but their extra effort ensures everything is as it should be. It's a matter of caring - taking the time to check the little details. Now is not the time to be slipshod or casual. Look for errors, and tie up loose ends. The key to success is an extraordinary effort. Whatever your task, the Eight of diamonds tells you to give it your all in every way.
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Nine




Nine of Clubs
  • DEFENSIVENESS
    PERSEVERANCE
    STAMINA

Strength is the other aspect of the Nine of Clubs. This fighter is tough! He has the physical stamina and the inner drive to persist despite all setbacks. In The Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger plays an android from the future who never gives up. In the end he is nothing but a wire framework with glowing eyes, but he still keeps coming - dragging himself along the floor to his goal. This is the spirit of the Nine of clubs. This card tells you to keep going no matter what. Even if everyone and everything seems to be against you right now, don't give up. Within you are the hidden reserves you need to prevail.



Nine of Hearts


  • WISH FULFILLMENT
    SATISFACTION
    SENSUAL PLEASURE
The Nine of hearts is a sign of delight in all the senses. Sights, sounds, tastes, feelings. This card encourages you to seek out pleasure and enjoy your body in every way. The Nine of hearts indicates contentment with the way things are.
The Nine of Cups is known as the Wish Card. It shows your wish will come true. A wonderful prospect, but remember your fairy tale lessons. You must be sure you know what you really want and accept the responsibilities that go with your wish. If that is the case, then enjoy your good fortune!




Nine of Spades
  • WORRY
    GUILT
    ANGUISH
The Nine of Spades represents this unhappiness which can strike us at any time.
Unlike the pain of the Three of Spades which seems to come from without, the Nine of Spades represents the pain that we generate from within. What tortures we put ourselves through when our fears and doubts overwhelm us. Worry is probably the most common.
Needless to say, the Nine of Spades is not the most pleasant of cards, but it doesn't always indicate major distress. Often it is just a sign of some element of unhappiness or trouble - a vulnerable spot in your life. This card is often a warning from your Inner Guide that the path you are going down may be a difficult one.





Nine of Diamonds

  • DISCIPLINE
    SELF-RELIANCE
    REFINEMENT
The Nine of Diamonds represents all that is most gracious, high-minded and civilized. Art, music and other forms of beauty are very much part of our physical world (diamonds). The Nine of Diamonds can imply an interest in these areas. It can also be a sign of discipline and self-control. The Nine of Pentacles suggests that you must show restraint and self-control if you are to achieve your best efforts.
This card is also a sign of self-reliance. Sometimes you must trust our own ability to handle a situation. Resist the temptation to let others do for you. You need to take matters into your own hands.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Ten



Ten of Clubs
  • OVEREXTENDING
    BURDENS
    STRUGGLE

The Ten of Clubs can be a sign that you are pushing yourself too hard. If your days are an endless round of duties and tasks, then you need to lighten up for the sake of your health and well-being. It can also stand for times when you have to assume the lion's share of responsibility. You may be blamed or left holding the bag. On the other hand, you may have to step forward and take charge because you are the only one capable enough. Rightly or wrongly, the cleanup will fall to you
.



Ten of Hearts

  • JOY
    PEACE
    FAMILY
On the Ten of hearts is a symbol of what our emotional life could be at its best. The feelings represented here are an ideal that is within the reach of each of us.
First, there is joy. Joy goes beyond happiness, contentment, enjoyment. It is the feeling that comes when we know at the deepest level that we are one with all that is, and it is good. Unfortunately, this is not exactly a common feeling! Too often we are blinded by the trials of life and overwhelmed by their challenges. Joy exists, though, and is our birthright.
Peace is another aspect of the Ten of Hearts - the serenity that comes when all elements are in harmony. There is inner peace and outer peace which are reflections of each other.
This card often signals a time of abundant blessings. It tells you that you can reach for the fulfillment you deserve, and it will come to you.




Ten of Spades

  • BOTTOMING OUT
    VICTIM MENTALITY
    MARTYRDOM
The Ten of Spades appears to be a card of terrible misfortune, but surprisingly, it often represents troubles that are more melodramatic than real.
One meaning of the Ten of Spades is hitting rock bottom.
This card can also show when you're in victim mentality. You're certain that the whole world is picking on you just to make your life difficult.
Sometimes the Ten of Swords indicates a sad event. There is not even a hint of laughter in your heart.




Ten of Diamonds

  • AFFLUENCE
    PERMANENCE
    CONVENTION
The Ten of Diamonds stands for the ultimate in worldly and material success. Sometimes I jokingly call it the "fat cat" card because it reminds me of the aura of prosperity that surrounds wealthy men and women of business. This is the card you want to see if you are wondering how your latest enterprise will turn out. Wealth and affluence are yours.
The Ten of Diamonds is also concerned with permanence. Change is an unavoidable part of life, but constant change is uncomfortable. We need stability and the chance to work for a secure foundation in life.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Jack




Jack of Clubs


  • CHARMING
    SUPERFICIAL
    SELF-CONFIDENT
    COCKY
    DARING
    FOOLHARDY
    ADVENTUROUS
    RESTLESS
    PASSIONATE
    HOT-TEMPERED

On the positive side, the Jack of Clubs is full of energy and life. He's never afraid to try something new and will reach for all the gusto he can. Others may shake their heads at his crazy stunts, but they still admire his courage and passion. He's sexy and irresistible...always the charmer. On the negative side, this Jack is a little too sure of himself and his abilities. He tends to be shallow and thoughtless. Don't expect a deep commitment from him. He's also reckless and irresponsible. He acts without thinking and constantly gets in trouble because of his temper.



Jack of Hearts

  • ROMANTIC
    OVEREMOTIONAL
    IMAGINATIVE
    FANCIFUL
    SENSITIVE
    TEMPERAMENTAL
    REFINED
    OVERREFINED
    INTROSPECTIVE
    INTROVERTED
On the positive side, the Jack of Hearts is a sensitive soul. He is a poet - a lover of all things romantic and refined. He uses his imagination in wondrous ways and taps the deepest levels of emotion. He knows how to create beauty and share it with others. On the negative side, this Knight is prone to flights of fancy and illusion. His melodramatic moods are legendary, and his emotions often get the better of him. He's too temperamental and takes offense easily. He can't stand unpleasantness and will always let others deal with it.


Jack of Spades

  • DIRECT
    BLUNT
    AUTHORITATIVE
    OVERBEARING
    INCISIVE
    CUTTING
    KNOWLEDGEABLE
    OPINIONATED
    LOGICAL
    UNFEELING
On the positive side, the Jack of Spades is a master of logic and reason. He has a keen intellect that grasps the fine points of any subject. He speaks clearly, directly and always with authority. His judgments are sure and free of emotion. Others rely on his lucid analyses of problems and solutions. On the negative side, this Jack is not a master of diplomacy. He can be downright tactless and rude. When he thinks you are wrong, you'll know it. He's convinced of his own superiority and has little tolerance for stupidity. He expects others to comply with his views. To him, feelings are irrelevant and illogical.



Jack of Diamonds

  • UNWAVERING
    STUBBORN
    CAUTIOUS
    UNADVENTUROUS
    THOROUGH
    OBSESSIVE
    REALISTIC
    PESSIMISTIC
    HARDWORKING
    GRINDING
On the positive side, the Jack of Diamonds is like a bulldog. Once he bites down, you can be sure he won't let go. He's dogged in pursuit of his goals. A hard-worker, he has tremendous stamina and dedication. Every job is always completed down to the last detail. He's careful and prudent, never wasteful. He knows the facts and is immune to false promises. On the negative side, this Knight is a bit stodgy and dull. He's not known for his playful sense of humor. Work always comes first. He tends to be inflexible and obsessive about little details. Stubborn to a fault, he refuses to give in even when wrong, something he'll never admit. He doesn't like change or risk and will always take the gloomiest view.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Queens


Queen of Clubs
  • ATTRACTIVE
    WHOLEHEARTED
    ENERGETIC
    CHEERFUL
    SELF-ASSURED
The personality of the Queen of Clubs combines the positive fire energy of the clubs suit with the inward focus of a Queen. She is the one voted most popular in her class. She is always attractive and often good-looking in the classical sense. Her warm smile and easygoing manner bring her lots of friends and admirers. Her energy is contagious, and her enthusiasm, total. No matter what the task, she tackles it with wholehearted dedication and commitment. Nothing gets her down. She is always upbeat and cheerful - ready to look for the positive in the situation. Her life is full and busy, and she prefers it that way. She loves to be going and doing. She keeps up this pace because she is radiantly healthy and fit. She is often a good athlete, being naturally strong and coordinated. Although she's never arrogant, the Queen of Clubs has a deep faith in her own abilities. Her quiet self-assurance comes from the knowledge that she can accomplish whatever she sets her mind to.


Queen of Hearts

  • LOVING
    TENDERHEARTED
    INTUITIVE
    PSYCHIC
    SPIRITUAL
Every womans favourite court card (more often than not.. don't you agree?)
The personality of the Queen of Hearts combines the positive water energy of the Hearts suit with the inward focus of a Queen. Because she has a sweet, loving and sensitive nature, the Queen of Hearts has a kind word for everyone and never reacts with anger or impatience. There is a gentleness about her that soothes and calms. Compassion is her watchword. Her reactions to the world are guided by her feelings, in all matters she lets her heart lead the way. She senses emotional currents and knows what others are experiencing without having to ask. She is never moody, but understands moods and their influence. She trusts her intuition and so is more open to knowledge that comes from within herself and beyond. She is often moved by the beauty and tragedy of life. The Queen of Cups feels deeply and has a reverence for all aspects of God's creation. Her love includes and embraces everyone and everything.



Queen of Spades

  • HONEST
    ASTUTE
    FORTHRIGHT
    WITTY
    EXPERIENCED
The Queen of Spades is very narcissistic. She indicates a woman who is blessed (or cursed) with sharp perception, and highly honed intuition. She is acutely analytical, with a razor-sharp ability to get to the heart of a situation, seeing exactly what is, rather than what others would wish her to see.

She is a private woman, unwilling to let people too close to her until she is satisfied she thoroughly understands their motivations. But once won as a friend, she is unfailingly loyal, honest and supportive.

She's usually very intelligent, with a dry sense of humour. Her penetrating insight will often reveal aspects of themselves to others that they had previously been unable to grasp - thus she is a capable therapist, teacher or leader.




Queen of Diamonds

  • NURTURING
    BIGHEARTED
    DOWN-TO-EARTH
    RESOURCEFUL
    TRUSTWORTHY
The personality of the Queen of Diamonds combines the positive earth energy of the Diamonds suit with the inward focus of a Queen. If you were to visit the Queen of diamonds , the first thing she would say is, "Come in, come in. It's great to see you. Have a bowl of soup!" No one is more welcoming and nurturing than she. Her greatest pleasure is to care for others - making sure they are happy and secure. Her home is always overflowing with children, pets, plants and footloose friends. She is warm and generous to all. In day-to-day matters, she is sensible and practical. She doesn't have a lot of time for elaborate plans and other craziness. If something needs doing, she just takes care of it without a lot of fuss and bother. If necessary, she makes do with little and always comes through in a pinch. There is a down-to-earth, matter-of-factness about her. She is always loyal and steadfast. Because she is trusting by nature, others trust her completely. When you are hurting or in need, the Queen of Diamonds will calm your fears and share your troubles.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Kings

King of Clubs

  • CREATIVE
    INSPIRING
    FORCEFUL
    CHARISMATIC
    BOLD
The personality of the King of Clubs is a combination of the positive fire energy of the Clubs suit and the active, outward focus of a King. He is creative and never settles for old, tired approaches. He trusts his originality and allows his inspirations to take form. He's enthusiastic. He steps forward and takes the lead if the opportunity presents itself. Others follow when he shows them the way with confidence. He's forceful in pursuing his goals. He's not a quiet, passive observer unless that suits his purposes. He jumps in and creates results. He's dramatic and exciting. This King is never a wallflower, more often the center of attention. He's bold and daring. He avoids the safe, easy route because he has the energy and assurance to take risks and win. The King of Clubs has the courage of his convictions and always believes in himself.


King of Hearts
  • WISE
    CALM
    DIPLOMATIC
    CARING
    TOLERANT
The personality of the King of Hearts is a combination of the positive water energy of the heart suit and the active, outward focus of a King. He is wise and understanding, with a deep knowledge of the world that comes from the heart. He is a teacher and way-shower who guides his students with loving attention. He cares about others sincerely and always responds to their needs with compassion. He heals with a gentle touch and a quiet word. He is calm and relaxed in all situations, seeming to know intuitively what is called for at any moment. Others turn to him for advice because they know he will listen attentively. There is always a peacefulness around him that others respond to. He is tolerant of all points of view and shows patience in the most trying circumstances. He gives others freedom to grow and develop in their own ways without asking anything in return.


King of Spades

  • INTELLECTUAL
    ANALYTICAL
    ARTICULATE
    JUST
    ETHICAL
The personality of the King of Spades is a combination of the positive air energy of the spades suit and the active, outward focus of a King. He is a man of intellect who can absorb and work with information of all kinds. As a master of reason and logic, he analyzes any problem with ease. He can work out solutions quickly and explain them lucidly to others. In a chaotic situation, he cuts through the confusion and provides the clarity needed to move forward. Others seek him out to present their case as he speaks with eloquence and insight. He is always truthful and can be relied on to handle any situation fairly and honorably. When a judgment is called for, he can render an impartial but just decision. He is incorruptible and lives by the highest ethical standards. He encourages those around him to do the same, and they often live up to his expectations.


King of Diamonds
  • ENTERPRISING
    ADEPT
    RELIABLE
    SUPPORTING
    STEADY
The personality of the King of Diamonds is a combination of the positive earth energy of the diamonds suit and the active, outward focus of a King. He might as well be called King Midas as he turns everything he touches to gold (riches of all kinds). He finds opportunity everywhere and succeeds at whatever he sets his mind to. He is enterprising and adept. Whatever the task, he handles it competently, drawing on his wide range of skills and practical knowledge. He's a jack-of-all-trades - and master of all as well. He is always dependable and responsible. Others rely on him completely because he never fails them. He gives generously of his time and resources because he knows that by giving more, you receive more. He encourages others in their accomplishments and lends his support whenever it is needed. He has a steady and even temperament that adds an element of stability to any situation. When he has set a goal for himself, he pursues it with firm resolve until he's successful.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by laranovales »

Yeay! I'm done posting all the cards!
So happy! okay from here on forth you can post your replies.
I do hope that you find this post helpful and interesting. Thank you for your time.

I did try to make it as organized as possible thus the table of contents. So ENJOY!

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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by Russell »

I'm going to sticky this as soon as I get back on my main computer. Amazing job!
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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no ace of diamonds
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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@Russel - REALLY!!! **oogle eyed** sugoi!! Uershii!! (transtlation: cool I'm so happy)

@New Collector 83 - OMG Thanks for pointing that out. Let me get that fixed. :P Thank you again.







THERE!!! I fixed it! Ace of Diamonds are now up!
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by MagikFingerz »

This is amazing! Great job, Lara :D
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by dazzleguts »

You really made this look good. Coloured text really pops on the new forum. I will add some history later.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Thanks @Magicfingerz and @Dazzleguts!

I put these info together because some people were having a bit of a mental block on their personal deck designs and knowing more about cards and their origins and what nots really helps i think. :P

And yes I am a sucker for colored texts if you didn't notice from my blog posts (if you read it) and even in Aethercards. :P

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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by Assassino13 »

This is so cool! It even made it onto the coveted bookmark section of my computer.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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***BEAMS*** awww shucks! I feel honored to have my post bookmarked. =^-^=

anyway I see a design/dev board there. So I am guessing that this topic will be moved soon to its appropriate forum.
Is this right @Russell?
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by Russell »

The design topic "Drafting Board" is mostly for people to show off unreleased decks or card ideas and suggestions.

I'm thinking of creating a 'Knowledge Base' forum to put all the reference material in.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by Adam »

Excellent Contribution!! This is really great information.
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

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Oh yeay it has been moved to the knowledge base!
Awesome!

This is a great idea! And A great way to keep things organized. GOOD JOB GUYS!
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by sprouts1115 »

we also need the knights in your list. i find it interesting the modern list in rank of order of the trumps is not the same order by this monk in 1470.


http://www.tarotpedia.com/wiki/Sermones ... _Cum_Aliis" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Primus dicitur El bagatella (et est omnium inferior): The first is called The bagatella (and is the lowest of all)
2 Imperatrix: Empress
3 Imperator: Emperor
4 La papessa (O miseri quod negat Christiana fides): The Popesse ("O wretches! That which the Christian Faith denies.")^
5 El papa (O pontifex cur, &c. qui debet omni sanctitate polere, et isti ribaldi faciunt ipsorum capitaneum): The pope : (O Pope why, etc., who must rule with complete holiness, also these criminals make of you their chief)
6 La temperantia: The temperance
7 L'amore: Love
8 Lo caro triumphale (vel mundus parvus): The triumphal chariot : or "the little world"
9 La fortezza: The fortitude
10 La rotta (id est regno, regnavi, sum sine regno): The wheel "i.e. I reign, I reigned, I am without kingdom"
11 El gobbo: The hunchback
12 Lo impichato: The hanged man
13 La morte: The death
14 El diavolo: The devil
15 La sagitta: The arrow
16 La stella: The star
17 La luna: The moon
18 El sole: The sun
19 Lo angelo: The angel
20 La iusticia: The justice
21 El mondo (cioe Dio Padre): The world (i.e. God the Father)
0 El Matto sie nulla (nisi velint): The Fool, thus null (unless they wish)
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Re: Cards: History, Meanings, and More

Unread post by RSLancastr »

Thank you for all of the work you put into that, but I think it is better suited (so to speak) to a tarot/cartomancy forum than this one. Of what use are the putative "meanings" for the cards (which constantly vary from reader to reader anyway) to a cardist or a playing card collector?

Also, what New Age cartomancy practitioners call the "Major Arcana" (in order to make them sound mysterious) were originally (and still are) "the Trumps".

Because Tarot decks were originally created for playing card games, not fortunetelling. Modern Tarock decks (Tarock being a card game popular in some countries, mostly in Europe) are more closely related to Tarot decks than are modern standard playing card decks. So your statement that modern playing cards descended from tarot decks is inaccurate (although many New Age books say that it is so).
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