Cartomancy Mailbag – How Will I Know Him?

Hello Kapherus,

Thanks for sharing and teaching us!
I was wondering if you could please shed a little light on my reading. My question was: What will be the biggest clue that will indicate to me who my future husband is?
Jack of Hearts
Queen of Spades
2 of Clubs
4 of Diamonds
Ace of Diamonds

Hello, you’re welcome, and I would be happy to offer comments and suggestions on your reading…

Lol, the cards went to the point & literal. To my understanding this to me means that he (Jack of Hearts) will gift me (2 of Clubs) a diamond ring (4 of Diamonds+Ace of Diamonds). Does that sound right? Hehe, I guess I should have asked a better question. My main question is, what does a Jack+Queen signify? I have read on your blog that a Queen+Jack means an old female friend returning (I’m a straight female, by the way). Does this one mean that an ex is my “future husband”? Thanks in advance for your insight!

I love this reading! It is a great example of the cards showing personality and a sense of humor. After all, what bigger clue could there be to identify your future husband than the gift of a diamond engagement ring in a fancy box?

The Jack of Hearts (0ffer) + Ace of Diamonds (ring) is a classic combination for a marriage proposal. The Ace of Diamonds ending the spread indicates something entirely new entering your life– that rules out the ex in my mind. But who is the Queen of Spades? Well, the most sensible interpretation is that she represents you. The Spade could represent your coloring if you are dark-haired. Otherwise it can denote your status as divorced, or single, or alone, or lonely.

The biggest clue that will indicate to you who your future husband is…  an offer (JH) to you (QS) of a gift (2C) of jewelry in a fancy box (4D) containing a diamond ring (AD).

That’s the most obvious interpretation for these cards, but in my experience, the cards will rarely mean only one thing.  Can we dig a little deeper using an alternate interpretation to see if there are other clues that will help identify the Mr. Right even before the ring appears?

First let’s look at the anchor card (middle card) for a thread to help us unravel the readings. The 2 of Clubs is a gift, but it can also suggest some kind of benefits or a helping hand.

Next, let’s consider both the Jack and Queen as people. The Jack + Queen combination can represent a young girl, but the cards should always be interpreted within the context of the question. Because you’re asking about a male love interest, I think it makes more sense to read the Jack of Hearts separately as the man you will marry. That leaves the Queen of Spades.

When face cards appear in pairs, they can also indicate a connection between the two people represented by the cards. The directions the cards face can tell a lot about the relationship between the two people. The Jack is looking toward the left, toward you (the querent is always understood to be to the left of the cards– I suppose because we deal the cards from the left). His interest is on you.  The Queen faces the two of clubs, which can  represent a helping hand. Her focus is on helping. She stands between man (JH) and the engagement (AD), so we can assume that she will help by bringing this man into your life. The 4 of diamonds + Ace of Diamonds can indicate that you will meet him in her home or place of work.

Another big clue that will indicate to you who your future husband is…  that the man you will marry (JH) comes through a woman (QS) who will help (2C) bring the two of you together in a place (4D) where you can meet (AD).

These are just additional suggestions. The card will often mean more than one thing, interpreted first one way and then another. That does not change the main imagery of a marriage proposal– the gift of a ring in a fancy box [ JH + 2C + 4D + AD]!

Cartomancy Mailbag – Ace of Spades

Kaph,

Good Morning,
I have started a practice of doing a weekly or daily three card draw. I find it to be a great way to practice. I pulled the As (reversed), Qh, 9h. I did read every thing you have posted about the As and although it is surrounded by heart and therefore on its “best behaviour” I cant help but feel a tad uneasy about it.

Most people do feel a bit uneasy when the Ace of Spades shows up in a prominent position in the spread– it is called “the death card” after all. But in truth, even reversed the Ace of Spades will rarely indicate physical death, and  in most cases it brings positive changes. You present some interesting questions about your spread, and I’m happy to offer my comments and suggestions…

There are a few things to mention before we break down your card spread. First, in most cases daily cards– even weekly cards– will not carry as much weight or importance as a full reading. I say “in most cases” because there are times when a daily can show something intensely meaningful, but it will be something we hear about, or something that does not affect us directly or personally. For example, on the morning of the Sandy Hook tragedy, I drew the following cards for my daily draw: JS + AS + 9S, and the Ace of Spades was reversed. But no worries, your spread with the two hearts covering the Ace of Spades is not really negative at all. As you say, the double hearts will keep that spade in check.

I also wanted to add that generally I don’t read the Ace of Spades reversed. Although I must admit that when it appears reversed in a cluster with other spades, it can make my skin crawl. When I saw those cards on that fateful morning, I knew that a young man would cause harm to himself  and/or to others. I worried that it was someone/something personal, and even though it was not, the event affected me very deeply.  In any case, when the Ace of Spades falls with hearts, I generally don’t bother to make a distinction between the ace appearing upright or reversed since the happy cards bring out the ace’s best qualities.

The other thing I want to mention is that the cards– even daily cards– can, and often do, carry more than one message. For example, we could read the Queen of Hearts as you, but she could just as easily represent a mother, or sister, or good friend. As I mentioned, daily cards will sometimes talk about the people around us– or even something we’ll hear about in the news that day.

The 9h is the very best card and such a relief to see. Is this combination common, meaning, the worst card and the best card in a lay out together?

Yes, this combination is very common. Often some kind of major change or transformation is necessary before a wish can be fulfilled. It’s also helpful to keep in mind that besides indicating a transformation, an ending and new a beginning, death and rebirth, etc., the Ace of Spades is also a card of decisions. Decisions can be life changing, they can bring endings and new beginnings.

and how do you read a face card with the As to the left of it? I did read your article on The Death card and face cards but you clarify a bit. if you could add any thoughts I would be so grateful.

The Ace of Spades to the left of a face card will usually indicate that the person represented by the face card has experienced a personal transformation or major life change. In a daily draw, it can indicate that an important decision was made by this person, and the card following the face card will reveal the outcome or consequences of that decision.  In this case, the two hearts (one of which is the wish card) show a very positive outcome.

In the case of the queen of hearts, she is looking toward the Ace of Spades showing that her focus is on the change/decision. Her back is toward the 9 of hearts, showing that she is not yet aware of the blessing ahead.

As- the ending of an emotional period in my life or having to make emotional choices
Qh- me
9h- an outcome that brings success and victory
Thank you and Blessings!

Yes, I think your interpretation is right on target! Thank you for sharing your reading on the Cartomancy Mailbag!

Cartomancy Mailbag – Line of 5 Cards

I did my first 5 card lay out and had asked the question “how does X feel about me?”

I got the 4d,3h,5s,Qh,4h

Hello, and thank you for submitting your questions to Cartomancy Mailbag. I’m happy to offer comments and suggestions on your 5 Card Reading…

Please note: this is your draw, and therefore the cards are talking to you. I can offer my impressions based on how I would interpret the spread if I drew the cards myself, but in the end your own intuitive perceptions will be more meaningful than mine. My comments and suggestions are not meant to negate or invalidate your own impressions of the reading. 

The first thing I keep in mind when I look at your cards is that you’re asking about someone’s feelings. That means the cards will reflect X’s perceptions about you and his relationship with you. The cards may not reflect how you see yourself, or how anyone else sees you. It’s also important to also keep in mind that these cards will not provide an objective outlook on the relationship. Remember, these are X’s feelings we’re reading about here, not the actual development or future outcome of the relationship itself.

Okay…the first thing I notice about the reading itself is the predominance of heart cards. Hearts reflect happiness and affection. It’s obvious that X has loving feelings toward you.

Since I am so very new at this I have a little trouble with the diamonds. The 4 represents stability and as for the meaning of it im unsure because the question is about feelings and the diamonds are about money.

I read the 4 of Diamonds the same whether the question deals with love or money. For me, this card represents security and a strong foundation. We could say that you make X feel secure. He feels grounded when he is with you.

The 3h is a good card but follow by a spade indicates hurt feelings. so maybe the feeling were steady expanding (4 d and the 3h) but then hurt by a recent falling out of travel plans ( he lives far away) and I did read that the 3h with spades indicates a possible love triangle.

The 3 of hearts is a relationship card. It talks about happiness and growth. It seems that X is happy with how the situation is developing with you.

As the middle card, the 5 of Spades anchors the reading and reveals a block or obstacle. The good news is that the 5 of Spades is surrounded by red cards, predominantly hearts, so this black card will be on his very best behavior. The positive side of the 5 of Spades is “independence.”  We could say that X value’s his independence, and that this may interfere with the relationship moving forward (going from 3H to 4H). Mr. X may not feel ready for a commitment at this time. The 3 of hearts followed by the 5 of Spades suggests that X is only ready to allow the relationship to develop so far. In other words, he does not feel ready to take things with you to the next level.

The Qh is confusing because I look like the Qc.

Not so confusing if you keep in mind that the cards are describing how X sees you, not how you see yourself.  X perceives you as evincing the qualities of the queen of hearts. She is good-natured, fun-loving, sensitive, emotional, nurturing, and romantic. On the negative side, the queen of hearts can be overly sensitive and moody, and perhaps self-indulgent.

The 4h is a good outcome card but not a very high one when referring to a relationship. all in all the hearts are dominate and I did notice two 4′s which is stable situations but they are not side by side.

Remember, we’re asking about X’s feelings, we’re not asking about the outcome of the relationship. I also see significance in the two 4′s at the front and back of the reading. The 4 of diamonds is the foundation, and the 4 of hearts is the next level being build– emotions set on a secure foundation. The 4 of hearts is the emotional commitment card. It can represent a committed partnership or marriage. But following the 5 of Spades (blockage), I have the impression that X may not yet feel ready to take the relationship to this next level. He may still feel unsure about giving up his independence.  The Q of hearts + 4 of Hearts suggests that X feels that you are looking for more of a commitment from him than he’s ready for right now.

could you add any thoughts about this?
thank you very much

You’re welcome. That is how I would interpret these cards if I drew them myself. I hope my comments and suggestions were helpful.

Cartomancy Mailbag – Lucky 13

Hello mr Kapherus,
I was exploring your blog today,and since I am interest learning bigger and more general spreads, I found out the Lucky 13 spread is very interesting,and I like this kind of spread.
But even I read the examples you added in different periods about this spread, I need some help.
Please post another one example, if you can, If you don’t have time to comment my spread.

9 club 6diamond 10 heart
3 club 10spade 10 diamond 2spade
Qheart Qdiamond Qclub
7spade 3diamond 6 heart

I have applied for an opportunity to return to university and finish my studies,and this is my concern 10 spade,but I don’t understand the Qdiamond in that position,maybe is a woman I know.the three diamond is a no?

Hello, thank you for submitting your questions about the Lucky 13 spread. I’m happy to offer suggestions regarding your reading… (Please keep in mind that my suggestions are not meant to negate or invalidate your own interpretations. I am merely offering additional suggestions.)

The 6 of Diamonds followed by the 10 of Spades would suggest worries about a financial obligation. These cards also indicate feeling nervous about an unsettled situation.  The Queen of Diamonds is a woman with financial influence in the situation, perhaps in connection with your wish to pursue your education. The Queen of Diamonds is looking toward the significator indicating a helpful, beneficial influence. The 3 of Diamonds could represent a small loan or grant or scholarship money; or perhaps a part-time job opportunity to help finance your education.

My significator (Q heart )appeared in the first row.
So this row is about present,and my focus currently.

3 Queens:women company
3tens:Journey abroad
2 threes:spiritual growth
2 sixes:harmony

The Queens appeared on the same position of each column.
I think are members of family,or women I have everyday contact.
Columns end with :spade: :diamond: :heart: the spade ending the row I appear shows I am not optimistic?

Spades reveal challenges. But there are few spades in the layout, and only one column ends in a spade. This indicates minor or temporary challenges. Specifically, the 7 of Spades following the significator would suggest personal setbacks and challenges that will need to be overcome in order to realize a goal.

First row
The theme is distance/destiny
There is distance communication and small misunderstandings /also I wait help from others about an opportunity (3 club denote lessons), I want to an opportunity to continue my studies, is my primary interest.
what follows my significator( 7 spade)stagnation staying standstill,hard to bear situation.
Isn’t good.

The 9 of Clubs and 3 of Clubs are both lucky cards that can indicate moving forward with plans that are very important to you (3 of Club + Significator). Taking the first steps toward your goals. The 3 of Clubs can specifically refer to your studies. The suit of Clubs is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of good luck and expansion. The 9 vibrates to travel and higher education. The 7 of Spades reveals challenges that must be faced before you can continue to move forward in this situation.

2nd row
following the 7 spade could point I fear loneliness/don’t share my concerns/ afraid to open up
3 row
Family,and having guests?a young couple-family member, meet someone new?there is job offer to a person of my family?win small amount in lottery games?

In the second column, the 6 of Diamonds and 10 of Spades suggest financial worries, which may be the cause of the setback that shows up in the first column.  The two red tens in the third column are exceptionally favorable cards. They indicate happiness and success, meeting your objectives, wishes fulfilled. The queens and 6 of hearts show new friends entering your life, and the three tens show travel with friends or visiting friends. The 10 of Hearts is travel for pleasure, perhaps during the summertime, and the 10 of diamonds is air travel. There could also be money concerns in connection with travel.

Surprise card:
Anger,separation.maybe the 2 spade is am advice?if I consider and bond with the current situation I am dealing now and is reflected by the 7 spade well,I would say,that this is a good sign…or I am wrong?

Thank you in advance,for any comment.

The 2 of Spades shows unexpected changes, and unexpected financial setbacks. This card is about minor aggravations, having to take care of all of the little details that seem to pile up. The advice is to pay attention to the details, and embrace the changes. Minor sacrifices may be necessary in order to reach your goals and realize your wish.

I hope my comments and suggestions prove helpful.

Cartomancy Mailbag: The Spiritual Symbolism of Court Cards

Hi Kapherus
First, I love your blog, and am learning so much about cartomancy there. Thank you for your wonderful service!

My first question is about reading forecasts with the answer spread. My question was “What to expect from M towards me this new moon cycle”

I got:

QD 10C 9D
7H 9C 3C

I read this as M wanting a second chance with me (7H, QD) but he’s traveling a lot right now, possibly for a new job. (10C 9C) He’s thinking about it, and is still attracted to me, but is starting a new business partnership and doesn’t have the time or energy right now. (9D, 3C)

First, I appreciate your kind words. Thank you.

Now for a technical suggestion…
The way you phrased your question for this reading strikes me as a bit indirect, and slightly vague. I suspect that this kind of question might work better for Tarot than for playing cards. The playing cards tend to respond better to direct questions, such as will he contact me? or does he still love me? or will we reconcile?

According to the way you phrased the question, I see this reading as responding to your expectations rather than to M’s intentions or actions.

Should I read myself as QD, as that is the card in the querent position, the Querent being me? Also, does my interpretation of 9D sound accurate to you? I don’t see him being in another romantic relationship in this spread, but maybe that is wishful thinking on my part? Hard to read matters of the heart for oneself, I find.

Yes, I would also read the queen of diamonds as representing you in the spread. The first column reveals what is already in existence– in other words, the basis of the question. So my interpretation of the first column would be that you (QD) are expecting a second chance with M.

You set your timing as a moon cycle, and it’s interesting to note that in the answer position we find the 10 of clubs which represents a cycle. Symbolically the 10C represents a wheel. The 9 of Clubs shows travel, but it can also indicate a sense of distance– physical and/or emotional.

Keeping in mind that your question makes you the focus of the reading, I would interpret the 9 of diamonds to represent M. Despite the current sense of distance, there is still interest. The 3 of clubs is a good luck card that carries a fast time frame.  These cards suggest a desire to make time for you. So with the 3 of Clubs as the pivot of the reading, I agree that you can expect contact before the end of the new moon cycle.

My second question is about multiple court cards. I did some financial spell work this New Moon, and before I did, I asked the cards if doing this magick would be beneficial to my overall financial situation. I did a 5 card spread,

QH QD 4C KD QC

So it seemed to me that the short answer was yes, definitely, but was not sure how to interpret all those court cards. None of them are facing each other directly, but they are all facing to the left, which I think would indicate all of them being interested in me, the Querent. QD is looking towards QH, KD is looking towards both of them, and QC is looking towards all the others, at the end of the line.

So could this be multiple business/job offers? Lots of people wanting to help me? A class or workshop or business gathering of some kind?

Yes, your interpretations make good sense. The 4 of Clubs is about personal contacts, but also about teaching. In a general sense we could say that the right people and the right circumstances are being brought into perfect alignment in order to positively influence your financial situation.

I see a beautiful symmetry in the this layout that prompts to dig deeper for a more spiritually symbolic meaning. Very often when we ask a spiritual question, the cards will respond with a spiritual message. Of course that doesn’t mean that our more mundane interpretations are any less valid. There is almost always more than one possible interpretation for a grouping of cards, and each message will be equally accurate and meaningful.

Queen—Diamond—-Club—-Diamond—-Queen

The middle card in the Line of 5 Spread will usually anchor the reading. I see the 4 of clubs as the physical/ritual call to the higher power/god/goddess/universe that puts into motion a powerful energy of attraction. The suit of diamonds symbolizes power/energy/electricity/magnetism/attraction. I see the Queen of diamonds and king of diamonds as the divine feminine and masculine principles that unite to create new life/manifestation. The diamonds represent the intellect and imagination. I see the queens as symbolizing motherhood and the raw creative power of the consciousness/universe. The Heart represents the emotional component, and the Club represents the physical result.

I get a resounding YES here. As the outcome of your magickal work, you can expect a positive change in your financial situation (KD + QC), which is the result of an emotional breakthrough regarding your prosperity consciousness (QH + QD).

Sorry this is so very long, and perhaps two questions that are so different is a bit much. I do appreciate your wisdom and skill, so any light you can throw on either/both of these readings is greatly appreciated.

No problem at all. I hope my comments are insightful.
Kaph

Cartomancy Mailbag: More on Court Cards and the Answer Spread

Cartomancy Mailbag – Questions from Emails

Is it possible for more than one court card to represent the same individual in a spread?

Theoretically anything is possible in cartomancy, but in a smaller spread such as the Answer Spread, I’ve found that rarely will the same person be represented by multiple court cards. I don’t mean to say that it can never happen, but I always try to exhaust all other possibilities first. The court card in question could represent another person involved in the situation– perhaps playing an unseen or unexpected role. The court cards can also denote qualities in a reading based on their rank and suit.

NB: Having said all that, I’m a firm believer that intuition and psychic impressions should override any textbook rules or guidelines. If your gut is telling you that a court card represents someone already symbolized by another card in the spread, always go with your gut!

Is it possible that a King may represent a woman, or that a queen may represent a man?

I have seen this happen, but only on rare occasions. For example, I have a long-time male client who is female identified, and he always shows up in the cards as a queen. In most cases when it makes no sense for a king or queen to represent a person, the cards will indicate a quality, such as authority or mastery (king), or protection and nurturing (queen). But please be warned that I have found that at least 90% of the time a court card will end up representing a person, even if the person’s presence in the situation makes no sense to the querent at the time of the reading.

What does it mean when court cards show up in pairs or groups?

There are specific meanings for when the court cards appear in combination. For example, two kings may represent a man in uniform, or shaking hands on a business deal. Two Jacks may represent a court case, or a joint venture. Two queens may represent gossip or rumors (sadly sexist ). Groups of court cards will usually indicate a social event. The card suits will provide a hint as to the mood or purpose of the gathering. In a grouping of courts, their directions can indicate a lot about the dynamics of the group. The direction a Court Card faces will usually indicate where that person’s interest is focused. For more specific information on the meanings of court cards in pairs and groups, please see the links in the Basic Cartomancy menu in the right-hand sidebar.

Is it possible that the Jack of Spades, King of Diamonds, and King of Hearts all represent my husband in my reading? My question was: Will my marriage improve?

It seems unlikely to me that all three court cards in the spread would represent your husband. Let’s take a quick look at other possibilities…

The First Column: Premise, Recent Past, Basis of the Question

The cards in the first column represent the premise of the question, or what is already existing in the situation in question. The Jack represents “right action, thoughts and messages,” but the spade brings challenges, false statements, and bad judgement.  The 3 of Spades is a a particularly nasty little spade which brings out the worst in the Jack of Spades. The three of Spades indicates deceptions, lies, confusion and misunderstandings. These cards show clearly that there are trust issues in the marriage.

The Jack of Spades (messages) and the 3 of Spades (deception) suggest lies and hidden thoughts. The 3 of Spades can indicate interference from a third party, and the Jack of Spades is obviously an unwanted influence. Can these cards indicate infidelity?  Notice that the King looks toward the Jack of Spades, and the Jack looks back. It is certainly possible that the Jack of Spades could represent a young female rival for your husband’s attentions.  We need to rely on our intuition to help us determine the right interpretation, but regardless of how we decide to interpret this first column, it is obvious that the marriage is in trouble, and has been for some time.

The Middle Column: Answers the Question, Present Influences

The King of Diamonds is a educated man who is focused on his professional career, and easily accumulates wealth. He aggressively pursues his goals. He may be older with gray or graying hair. He is restless and highly independent. If these attributes describe your husband, it makes sense that the King of Diamonds would represent him. The Eight of Spades is a card of disappointment and hurt feelings.  These feelings can be attributed to both the King of Diamonds and the yourself since this is your reading. As an answer to the question, these cards indicate to me that your husband will continue to be a source of pain and disappointment for you.  These card can also suggest that your husband may be investigating options outside of the marriage, which is not surprising based on the information we find the first column.

The final Column: Future Conditional Influences

The Ace of Spades is the death card, but it rarely indicates a physical death. More often this card represents transformation, change, death of an old situation and the rebirth of a new one, an ending and a new beginning. The appearance of the Ace of Spades suggests that the King of Hearts is someone entirely new. He is a husbandly man. Home and family are important to him. He is romantic and kind and and loving and protective and generous. The Ace of Spades suggests that he has experienced his own life transformation.  The King of Hearts looks toward the 8 of Spades. He has had pain and disappointments of his own. Is he widowed? Divorced? Use your intuition to help you fill in his story.

Sadly, these cards do not show improvement in the marriage, and you have a difficult road ahead. The Ace of Spades reveals the need for decisions and decisive action on your part.  If you are willing to embrace the coming changes, there is the promise of a new love in your future.

9 di Quadri – I Deliranti

Italian Sibilla Meanings For Divination:

9 di Quadri – I Deliranti

La Vera Sibilla © Masenghini
Sibilla della Zingara © Lo Scarabeo

Key Words: Opposition, confusion, setbacks, delirium, exaltation, intoxication.

Description:

9 di Quadri depicts three young men making their way home after an evening of carousing. They appear to be drunk, and the two men on either side are supporting the man between them, who may be too intoxicated to remain upright on his own.

I Delirante can be translated as “the delerious or delusional.”  In La Vera Sibilla, this card carries the keywords: contrarietà, which means “setback” or “adversity;” and esaltazione, which means “elation,” or “intoxication.”

Symbolism:

Drunkeness – a symbol of loss of control; or senseless or careless behavior.

How to read I Deliranti:

The 9 di Quadri is a card of opposition.

This card represents setbacks in one’s plans, delays,  adversity, unpredictable behavior,  a lack of responsibility, clash with  friends or colleagues, a confusing situation, misunderstandings and disputes.

I Deliranti warns of mental confusion, ineptitude, or an inability to take decisive action in order to meet one’s objectives.

Il Deliranti can represent a loss of control or carelessness due to intoxication both literally (as with alcohol or drugs), and figuratively (as with power or love). This card can also signify a binge related to alcohol, drugs, food or sex.

This card can represent carousing, partying, going out drinking, being under the influence, disorderly conduct, practical jokes, a crazy adventure, troubled youths, an unruly mob.

In health readings, I deliranti can signify delirium brought on by fever, or the fogginess brought on by hay fever or allergies. With Sospiri there is the indication of alcohol or drug addiction.  With Il Pensiero, mental imbalance.  With Vecchia Signora, dementia.

In the reversed position:

I Deliranti in the reversed position brings a very unfavorable influence: errors in judgement, failure of plans, problems worsen, wasted efforts, debauchery, addiction, mental imbalance, mania, dementia.

Crossroads Spread – Character Descriptions

I wanted to post another example of the Crossroads Spread to illustrate how this simple layout can be used to provide insight into two distinct options, rather than simply predict the outcome of two different paths. When a client is faced with a difficult decision, I find it helpful to explore the potential advantages and disadvantages of each option, before attempting to predict which choice would be the more beneficial. The querent can then make an educated decision based on all the information available from the cards.

The reading is for a 27 year old woman who is dating two men. She has been seeing one man for several years, and has recently met the second man. Neither man knows of the other. The querent fears that if she does not make the decision to continue with one man, and end her relationship with the other, she could lose both. Her dilemma is that she cannot decide on the right man. She thinks she is in love with one man, and she is convinced that the other man is the perfect for her. She is afraid to make the wrong choice.

Comparing Options

I suggested the Crossroads Spread to see if the cards could provide insight into each man’s character, and help her decide which was the better–more compatible– choice for her.

I asked the querent for the first name of each man. The first name she gave me was “Jason,” so Jason is represented by the cards in the top branch of the spread. Then she named “Daniel” who is represented by the bottom branch.

First Impressions

My first impression of the reading was that both branches begin with a Court Card. I love when I see patterns and symmetry in a reading because it assures me that the cards are speaking to me directly– trying to get my attention. The Court Cards can denote personality types, confirming that the cards are responding to my question for insight into each man’s character.

My second impression was that both branches end in money cards (Diamonds). This suggested to me that financial security is an important factor the querent looks for in a man. These cards represent the men in her life, but they are her cards, and they reflect her values. After all, the focus of the reading is really about her choice.

Top Branch: Jason

Looking at the top branch, I noticed that Jason is represented by only Diamonds. This suggests to me that he is a restless spirit, not the kind to settle in one place for long. He is a sensory seeker, easily bored, always looking for something  new to occupy his keen mind. He’s probably super intelligent, but he may lack the grounding necessary to put his ideas to practical use.

The Queen of Diamonds tells me that he values women in general, and the querent in particular. The 2 of Diamonds suggests that he also values his freedom. He isn’t the type to form a lasting commitment, or to settle down for long.  The 2 of Diamonds also talks of a generous nature with material things, but the 6 of Diamonds suggests limited resources. He probably doesn’t have much money, and earns just enough to get by. The querent confirmed that Jason has not yet settled on a career. He is a hard worker, but he gets bored and does not stay in any job for very long. She worried about his financial prospects.

The 6 of Diamonds could also suggest a possessive nature, someone with an innate understanding of human psychology, and an ability to manipulate others. When I glanced again at the Queen of Diamonds, it read to me more like this man values women as possessions. The querent became a little defensive with this line of inquiry, so I made my point and dropped it. She did admit, however, that Jason does not have the emotional stability or financial prospects that she looks for in a partner, but she sees his potential. It struck me that this was the man she had recently met, and with whom she thought she was in love. She confirmed that he was.

Bottom Branch: Daniel

Daniel is represented by a Heart, a Club and a Diamond. I could immediately see that he is a more rounded individual with a more balanced personality. If we include the Ace, all four suits are represented to describe him: Spades = Mind, Hearts = Soul (emotions), Clubs = Body, and Diamonds = Spirit (energy).

The King of Hearts describes him as a loving man. He is romantic, good husband material, a good father who will protect and provide for his family. The King of Hearts can be a dreamer, but the 3 of Clubs grounds him. It shows that Daniel is a dependable individual with a giving nature. He is understanding, and always ready to help and support those in need. Daniel has strong spiritual values (10 of Diamonds) and a practical approach to life (3 of Clubs). He has direction, he knows who he is, and what he wants to accomplish in life.

The 10 of diamonds is a card of success, and an indication that Daniel’s focus is on money and career. With the 3 of Clubs we see that he is building toward his financial future. This man is destined for success, and he need a stable and loving family to make it all worthwhile. The querent agreed that Daniel can provide her with emotional stability and  financial security she looks for in a partner. This is the man the querent has been dating for several years, and she seems bored with the relationship.

Summary: So which man is the better choice?

Well, the answer really depends on what the querent desires from a relationship. Life with Jason would be unpredictable, fast and exciting– restricted only by the limits of his financial means.  The downside is that the querent may risk being treated more like a possession than as a partner, and it could be a long time before Jason is ready to settle down.  If, on the other hand, the querent is looking for a stable relationship with a man who is family oriented and ready to settle down and create his family fortune, Daniel would make the better choice. The downside is that Daniel may be too predictable, and his current focus may be too much on work, and building his fortune, and not enough on building the relationship.

The important thing to note is that the cards do not make the decision for the querent. The cards will not say, “this or that  is the right choice for you.” The cards provide insight into each option, and it is up to the querent to decide which is the better choice for her based on her needs, desires, expectations, etc.

I had the impression that the querent was looking for permission to end a stable relationship which bored her, so she could pursue a more exciting relationship with the new guy. I offered to do another Crossroads Spread to see if the cards would indicate which relationship would make the querent happier in the long run, but she declined.  I suspect that she already knew the answer, and was not ready to see the truth confirmed in the cards.

When the Court Cards Do Not Represent the People in Your Querent’s Life

In most cases when a Court Card† appears in a reading, the card will represent the querent or an important person in the querent’s life. But every once in a while you’ll come across a Court Card that doesn’t seem to make sense within the context of the reading, and your gut tells you that the card is not meant to represent a specific someone.

So how to interpret a court card when it’s not a person?

It can be tricky. I don’t have a canned set of meanings that I use for face cards when they don’t represent people, but I do have general guidelines that I follow with reliable results. First, it helps to have a good understanding of the suit meanings, because the suit will set the mood or the theme for the Court Card. Here is a list of the common meanings I use for the suits, but please keep in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive. Feel free to add to these meanings, or subtract from them, or switch them around based on your own intuitive feeling for each suit.

Spades
negativity, problems, responsibilities, obligations, law enforcement, challenges, obstacles, mysteries, decisions, Karmic debts, obsessions, addictions, resentment, anger, setbacks, confinement, anxiety, failure, fear, illness and loss.

Hearts
emotions, love, romance, happiness, comfort, compassion, sharing, family matters, relationships, intimacy, rest, relaxation, amusement, fun, laziness, pleasure, peace, calm, creativity, soul connections, religion, and healing.

Clubs
good luck, growth, goals, conversations, verbal communication, paperwork, learning, action, physical activity, sports, exercise, work, construction, clubs and organizations, business, friendships and social interactions.

Diamonds
energy, electricity, power, science, technology, language, written communication, higher education, independence, restlessness, nerves, optimism, intellect, imagination, design, plans, spirituality, psychic energy, money, possessions, rewards, success, and legal judgments.

I combine the suit meanings with the archetypal meanings I associate with the Court Cards by rank.

Jacks
The Jacks represent children and young people. Therefore the Jack can denote something small or the start of something new. In the days before the invention of the telephone, young boys were employed as messengers, so the Jacks can be the messengers for their suits.  Jacks can also represent thoughts, so there is the idea of movement connected with these cards.

Queens
The Queens represent women, feminine things,  and the divine feminine principle. Queens represent motherhood and love, and they are nurturing, creative, receptive and introspective. The Queens denote growth and personal power. They bring  emotions and intuition and healing to their respective suits.

Kings
The Kings are grown men, and are the highest ranking court card. They denote mastery, authority, control and leadership. The Kings are protective and commanding, but they can be demanding, possessive, and even agressive and overbearing depending on their suit and surrounding cards.

With the above meanings in hand, and with a healthy dose of logic and a good pinch of intuition, it’s not too difficult to determine what a court card is trying to say when your gut tells you it isn’t meant to represent a person.

As an example, let’s combine the Jack with the Suit of Diamonds…

Jack of Diamonds
traditionally he is the letter carrier. He can represent a small sum of money, the start of a financial venture, a written message, a message about finances, a financial statement, a check, a receipt, money transfer, a message from your spirit guides, a place for higher learning, etc.

How about the Queen with the Suit of Spades…

Queen of Spades
traditionally, she is the widow. She can represent loneliness, separation, an ending, sterility, miscarriage, female health issues, blocked emotions, loss of personal power, blocked creativity, etc.

Now we’ll look at the King with the suit of Clubs…

King of Clubs
traditionally, he is a man of business. He can represent success in business, moving up the social ladder, attaining one’s goals, mastering a physical skill or ability, taking ownership of a project,  an exclusive men’s club or organization, etc.

Your own intuition and the surrounding cards will help add color and flavor to your interpretation of the Court Card.

The real trick is in knowing when a Court Card is meant to represent a person, and when it is not. If you fall into the habit of interpreting all of your face cards as qualities and characteristics rather than as people, you’ll miss out on the important roles other people play in the querent’s life. This would create a blind spot in your readings which could be a serious detriment to your querent’s understanding of the true factors influencing his or her life experiences.

†Court Card Images:
Jack Daniels Old No. 7 Playing cards, Legendary Irish Playing Cards, Sophia’s Fortune Telling Deck, Jane Lyle’s Fortune Teller’s Deck, Bicycle Playing cards.

Overview Spread – School Report

I was inspired by WarwickMug’s recent success with the Overview Spread, and ventured a few practice readings of my own. What follows is a spread I did this week for a mother who is concerned about her daughter who is leaving at the end of the month to begin college across country. Mom wants to know that her daughter will be safe, and that she will have a successful winter semester.

I thought this proved to be a good example of a classic Overview Spread, giving a general overview of a specific situation, and so with Mom’s permission I am sharing it here…

Question: How will the daughter fare during her first semester away at school?

General Impressions

What struck me first about this reading is the beautiful symmetry in the suits and numbers. There are two Spades, two Clubs and two Diamonds. There are two Aces, two 5′s and two Face Cards, not counting the Queen of Hearts which I chose as significator to represent the daughter.

The two Spades indicate the challenges that the daughter will face, and the two Clubs show that she is willing to put forth the work to achieve success. The two Diamonds represent intellectual pursuits, and foretell a successful outcome for the situation.

The Heart suit is conspicuously missing from this spread. This can be interpreted as a good sign since the Hearts can represent laziness and a lack of initiative. On the other hand, the girl may need reminding that school should also be fun, and that it’s okay to take some time away from her studies to relax and enjoy herself.  The mother confirmed that her daughter is a serious student, and not prone to either laziness or frivolity.

The two Aces represent a major change in the daughter’s life– a pair of Ace bring new people, situations, and places!  The two 5′s indicate that the daughter will take things in hand. Her future is literally in her own hands, and this new experience will be whatever she makes of it. The two Face Cards represent the new friends that the girl will encounter living on campus.

Now for an analysis of the individual cards…

The Two Cards on the Left

The two cards on the left represent the premise of the question, the recent past or present influences on the situation. The Ace of Spades is a life transition. It is the ending of one phase of life, and the start of another. It also represents the anxiety associated with any major life change. The Ace of Diamonds is a new phase of life beginning, and brings a sense of adventure. Going off to school is clearly a significant event in the daughter’s life. The mother confirmed that the girl has never been away from home for more than a day or two, and both mother and daughter are feeling anxious about the separation.

The Ace of Spades and Ace of Diamonds can also indicate some anxiety over a letter, and there had been some concern over whether or not the girl would get into the school of her choice before the letter of acceptance finally arrived last month.

The Card Above

The card directly above the significator represents what is on the person’s mind regarding the question, or what the person hopes to achieve in the situation. The 5 of Spades is a card of movement, separation and loss. The daughter is obviously thinking about being away from her friends and family, and relocating to unfamiliar surroundings. The 5 of Spades can also indicate independence and the fear of striking out on one’s own. No doubt the daughter is feeling some anxiety, but she also looks forward to being on her own for the first time in her life.

The Card Below

The card below the significator represents what the person fears or dreads regarding the situation surrounding the question. The Jack of Clubs is a young person– usually male. The mother confirmed that the daughter has a boyfriend she has dated through high school. The Ace of Diamonds suggests that there may have been some talk of an engagement, and the upcoming separation from the boy is the single dark cloud in an otherwise happy situation.

Often the Card Above and the Card Below will refer to a single situation. It becomes obvious that it is the separation from the boyfriend that weighs heavily on the girls mind.  She does not dread the separation itself– which would have been the message if the 5 of Spades had fallen below. Instead, she’s looking forward to the change, but dreads how the move will affect her relationship with the boy. The Ace of Diamonds also suggests that they have promised to stay in touch through written correspondence.

The Two Cards on the Right

The cards on the right reveal the future influences or outcome of the situation. The 5 of Clubs brings good luck, and it is a card of self-sufficiency. The daughter will manage very well on her own, and the experience will build confidence and self-esteem. The Queen of Diamonds represents the personality traits that the girl will foster and develop through this experience– she is studious and energetic, intelligent and quick-witted, confident and independent.

The Queen of Diamonds may also represent is an influential woman who will play a significant role in the successful outcome of the situation. The daughter will be moving into a dorm on campus, and perhaps the Queen of Diamonds represents a roommate who will motivate the girl, and help distract her from pinning for the boyfriend.

The Outcome

Symbolically, the Queen represents personal power and growth. The Diamond as the final card in the spread indicates optimism and success, and foretells good marks in her classes. There can be no doubt that the daughter will come into her own at school. She will perform well, and her first semester will be a very beneficial experience for her.