Eight of Swords: Weekly Tarotcast™ – Free Tarot Reading

5-26-20 through 6-02-20

This week’s Tarotcast card is the Eight of Swords. The suit of Swords can be challenging since it represents disruption and conflict. On the positive side, it also represents analysis, intellect and ideas. The Eight of Swords helps us understand that we can change our thoughts – and that can change our lives! I love the Wayne Dyer quote, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” This is the positive side of the Eight of Swords.

The Elements

Expansive optimism meets mutable Air and turbulence of mind results. Indecision from conflicting thought processes delays necessary action.

The Number 8

The Eights of the Minor Arcana organize, reason and communicate. Their energy may lack harmony, but they can restore symmetry and balance. The eights bring justice, karmic balancing or rebalancing, order and structure. They establish limitations and boundaries.

Kabbalah

On the Tree of Life this card represents the formula 8. Sephiroth or sphere 8, Hod (Splendor). The sphere of Mercury and the feminized Yang. In the suit of Swords (Yetzirah, the formative world). The element of Air – our intellect, thoughts and mental activity). Plus Jupiter in Gemini equaling “Interference.”

Astrology

The Eight of Swords symbolizes Jupiter in Gemini. It rules from 0 to 10 degrees Gemini or May 21st through May 31st. If your birthday falls on or between those dates, you’ll be feeling this week’s energy even more than the rest of us. The message of this card is that things are not as bad as they look. But it also cautions against being good-natured at the wrong times. Going along with the program brings disastrous results in some situations.

Hod is the sphere of Mercury – its home sphere, you might say – and Mercury rules Gemini. Add Jupiter to the mix and we get an element of luck, especially in intellectual pursuits. Yet, as with all the Eights, the influence of Hod causes this card to suffer from imbalance. Hod tends to be the “wet blanket” on all prevailing energies. Even with (mostly) good luck and a good outlook, we can still experience setbacks and delays. We find the proverbial “fly in the ointment.” Since fighting is what Swords are all about, we’re not much good when the “fight” gets knocked out of us. And we’re in bad trouble when a situation calls for us to fight and we don’t or won’t. But – it’s temporary.

In real-time astrology, the Sun is transiting Air-sign Gemini. Jupiter is currently retrograde in Earth-sign Capricorn. Plans and projects slow down or are on hold. Use that to get a fresh perspective. Review and revise, if necessary. We may lose some enthusiasm or self-confidence. We won’t know if our luck is in or out until later.

The current planetary influences complicate the positive aspects of the Eight of Swords.

Jupiter will be in quintile aspect with Chiron at the end of May. This is exact on June 1st. Quintiles reveal our innate talents and gifts. They are challenging unless controlled and directed into proper channels.

This quintile will broaden our understanding of others’ difficulties. We’re willing to learn and grow. While this seems positive, combined with the energy of this week’s card it could be a recipe for disaster. Too much empathy or compassion at the wrong time and place brings danger.

This aspect is good for seeing the big picture of any situation. We are successful problem-solvers. We create workable plans and strategies. This is good energy for processing what we’ve learned from past experiences and mistakes.

More challenges appear when Mercury enters Water-sign Cancer on May 28th. It will retrograde there on June 18th. Emotions are intense and changeable. Mercury Air stirs up still water and makes waves. Repressed emotions may surface.

Honor your feelings in private. Protect your heart. Keep in touch with your softer side while keeping it well-protected.

Shadow

Misuse, darkening or the shadow energy of this card includes confusion. Fuzzy thinking, fear of the unknown and crippling uncertainty. Thinking a situation is impossible becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Light

Let’s focus on the ability to look at the ways we hold ourselves back. Taking the longer view can help us gain a fresh perspective on any situation or relationship. It will free us up and move us forward.

Alchemy

Power colors: violet, blue, purple, and yellow as well as silver and pale gray.

Power stones: diamond, jade, agate, topaz, sapphire and amethyst. Wear these as jewelry or carry them as power stones to counteract feelings of “stuck-ness”. Rid yourself of restlessness and absent-mindedness.

Power metals: mercury and tin. Neither is wearable. But their properties remind us that a positive boost to our mental energy will help us make good choices. We avoid getting bogged down in self-criticism.

Power fragrances: fern, iris, carnation, heliotrope, cedar and honeysuckle. These will help us stay clear-minded and look for fresh viewpoints this week.

Power foods: foods prepared with parsley, dill, clove, sage, anise, cinnamon and nutmeg. Tea brewed from mint. All provide the same beneficial effects already described.

The Tarotcast is a free Tarot reading with a new post every week on Tuesday!
An individualized Tarot reading with me focuses on what’s most important for you, so call 847-735-1718 today for a personalized, in-depth look into your life’s possibilities.

Copyright 2020© Dona C. Murphy, Destiny Tarot®
“Destiny Tarot” and the Destiny Tarot logo are the registered trademarks (servicemarks) of Dona C. Murphy. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced without my permission. Tarot card images: Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot © copyright Ordo Templi Orientis, International Headquarters, JAF Box 7666, New York, NY 10116 USA. All rights reserved

Seven of Cups: Weekly Tarotcast™ – Free Tarot Reading

5-19-20 through 5-26-20

This week’s Tarotcast card is the Seven of Cups. Imagination, fantasy and daydreaming manifest here in their challenging or negative aspects. Believing that every option is open means we may choose not to act at all. We stay in a state of indecision and confusion. It’s hard to see the forest for the trees with the Seven of Cups. We’re easily seduced and just as easily disappointed and disillusioned.

The Elements

Water nourishes life but also dissolves, dissipates and decomposes. The sign of Scorpio embodies the power of degeneration, death and rebirth. Spoilage and rot are a necessary part of the regeneration process. That doesn’t make them any more pleasant.

The Number 7

The Sevens of the Minor Arcana illustrate the motives for manifestation. The balance of the sixes gives way to questioning and exploration. Disruption arises from the search for the underlying causes of action. The sevens dissolve and deconstruct.

Kabbalah

On the Tree of Life, the Seven of Cups card represents the formula 7. Sephiroth or sphere 7, Netzach (Victory), sphere of Venus and the masculinized Feminine. Manifesting in the suit of Cups (Briah). The creative world. The element of Water and the emotions plus Venus in Scorpio equaling Debauch.

The Seven of Cups shows the error of believing that more of anything is always better. The consequences of acting as if that were true couldn’t be better illustrated than by this week’s card. That first cocktail is fun. The second is too. By the third (or the fourth for some of us) we’re getting sloppy. By the fifth – well, we may be dashing to the bathroom for some private time with the porcelain god – soooo not sexy.

Astrology

This card corresponds to Venus in Scorpio. It rules from 20 to 30 degrees Scorpio, or November 13th through November 22nd. If your birthday falls on or between those dates, you’ll be feeling this week’s energy even more than the rest of us. Venus in Scorpio is not at her best – the Goddess of Love and Beauty can be a bit self-indulgent and reckless in this sign. Ok, more than a bit.

In real-time astrology, the Sun enters Air-sign Gemini on May 20th. Venus began its retrograde of Gemini on May 13th (through June 25th). It joins the Sun and Mercury in the sign of the Twins. Venus affects both love and finances. Questions arise about current work projects or romantic commitments – or both. Prepare for some periods of confusion. Dealings may be less than straightforward. Retrograde energy is better for review and reflection than diving into something new.

Lovers or old friends may reappear. We may catch ourselves reminiscing about the past. This is also an opportunity to make peace with unresolved relationship issues.

Air, Air Everywhere

We have a New Moon in Gemini on May 22nd. This positive Gemini energy sparks curiosity. We learn by listening to those around us. We hone our social and communication skills. Our minds are open to new information. Diversity and variety are a source of enjoyment and pleasure. This New Moon coincides with a Mercury-Venus alignment. We gain insight into our beliefs about money. We get a deeper understanding of past relationships. We look at current conditions from a fresh perspective.

On May 26th asteroid Juno turns direct in Air-sign Libra. Venus-ruled Libra is the sign of love and diplomacy. Juno rules commitment. These celestial bodies are overlapping each other in retrogrades. This energy reinforces our deep dive into our relationship history. These transits cause us to step back from our relationships to take a more objective look. Current events make this a literal necessity.

Shadow

Misuse, darkening or the shadow energy of this card includes delusion and delirium. Sinking into a swamp of false or illusionary pleasure. Use extra care this week with intoxicants (of all kinds). Remember that building castles in the air rarely gets you closer to your goals. There is a place for constructive daydreaming, imagining and visualizing. But this week, there are many more pitfalls and errors in trying to escape rather than face your troubles.

Light

Let’s focus on exercising good judgment. Narrow your focus to one plan or situation. It’s easier to stay on top of separating reality from illusion. Careful consideration may show us that a desired choice isn’t viable. We can then move on and realign with a more practical plan of action.

Alchemy

Power colors: emerald, sky blue, bluish-green tones, and rose pink along with very dark brown.

Power stones: topaz, ruby and jet (for Scorpio). Emerald, opal, jade, lapis and sapphire for Venus. Wear these as jewelry or carry them as power stones to help stay grounded. Don’t indulge in too much of a good thing – or anything – this week.

Power metals: iron, plutonium and copper. Only copper is wearable but it tarnishes. That serves as a reminder of Venus’ tendency to overdo the pleasures of the flesh and the senses.

Power fragrances: purple heather, violet, wild rose, apple and bergamot. Also, hibiscus, magnolia, plumeria, strawberry, vanilla and vervain. These will clear emotional and mental dust-bunnies and cobwebs out of the corners.

Power foods: foods prepared with sweet basil, apple, strawberry and vanilla. Tea brewed from hibiscus or rose hips. Don’t gorge on or swill any of them! All provide the same beneficial effects already described.

The Tarotcast is a free Tarot reading with a new post every week on Tuesday!
An individualized Tarot reading with me focuses on what’s most important for you, so call 847-735-1718 today for a personalized, in-depth look into your life’s possibilities.

Copyright 2020© Dona C. Murphy, Destiny Tarot®
“Destiny Tarot” and the Destiny Tarot logo are the registered trademarks (servicemarks) of Dona C. Murphy. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced without my permission. Tarot card images: Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot © copyright Ordo Templi Orientis, International Headquarters, JAF Box 7666, New York, NY 10116 USA. All rights reserved.

The Aeon: Weekly Tarotcast™ – Free Tarot Reading

5-12-20 through 5-19-20

This week’s Tarotcast card is The Aeon. Named “Judgment,” and also “The Last Judgment” in many Tarot systems. The Aeon signifies a spiritual awakening. A final decision is made. We release the past, pay off old debts (both material and karmic), and start a fresh chapter in our lives. We have a new (or renewed) sense of personal responsibility and self-direction.

Many people wonder why Crowley changed the name of this card (as he did several others) in his Thoth Tarot. Some Tarot systems depict the world destroyed by fire on this card. Others depict a heavenly angel; blowing his trumpet to resurrect the dead. The ancients believed that once in every age, souls reunite with the divine. New souls seed the world and the process starts over. Crowley believed these were obsolete concepts.

Kabbalah

On the Tree of Life, The Aeon card travels path 31. It joins sephiroth or sphere 8, Hod (Splendor) with sephiroth or sphere 10, Malkuth (Kingdom). Its Hebrew letter is Shin, written in Hebrew as both three headed and four headed. In Kabbalah, the three-headed shin is the shin of this world while the four- headed shin is the shin of the World to Come. One meaning of Shin is “change;” it also means “tooth.” In the state of transformational flux, a rush to judgment – or an error in judgment – can “bite” us you-know-where.

Astrology

The Aeon is the Elemental trump of Fire and of Spirit. The Thoth Tarot card depicts the Egyptian God Horus. He is the God of Force (Spirit) and Fire. Horus takes his place as the Lord of the new Aeon after spiritually destroying the old world by fire. It only looks like the end of the world. And it is, to those who can’t accept that old points of view can be – and are being – replaced by or integrated with new ones.

In real-time astrology, the Sun continues its transit of Earth-sign Taurus. Fiery Mars enters Water-sign Pisces on May 13th. This is not the most compatible energy. But, when well-directed, a gentle toughness creates a strong yet compassionate attitude.

This month begins a new wave of retrogrades from May 11th through May 14th. Saturn’s retrograde through Air-sign Aquarius began on May 11th. We will review and reassess our commitments and responsibilities during this period.

Venus retrogrades in Air-sign Gemini on May 13th, joining Mercury in the sign of the Twins. Venus affects both love and finances. Questions arise about current work projects or romantic commitments. Prepare for some periods of confusion. Dealings may be less than straightforward. Retrograde energy is better for review and reflection than diving into something new.

Lovers or old friends may reappear. We may catch ourselves reminiscing about the past. We may find peace with unresolved relationship issues.

Jupiter retrogrades in Earth-sign Capricorn on May 14th.  Progress with projects and plans may slow down. Take the downtime to get a fresh perspective. Don’t let a lack of confidence or a crisis of faith dampen your spirit.

Shadow

Misuse, darkening or the shadow energy of The Aeon includes self-delusion. Egomaniacal obsessions, megalomania and limited, ego-based perceptions of reality.

Light

Let’s focus on rebirth, renewal and awakening. These are the best and most positive manifestations of this card’s energy.

Alchemy

Power colors: scarlet, orange, gold, crimson and emerald (for Fire). White, violet and the colors of the prismatic spectrum (for Spirit).

Power stones: diamonds, carnelian, ruby, garnet and fire opal. Wear these as jewelry or carry them as power stones to awaken the energy of both Fire and Spirit united.

Power metals: gold and brass are this week’s metals – wear gold (especially yellow or rose gold) if you can!

Power fragrances: hibiscus, red poppies, thistle and juniper. Unite the positive, dynamic power of Fire and the transcendent energy of Spirit in your life!

Power foods: foods prepared with bay leaf, allspice, basil, cinnamon and garlic. Limes, oranges and red peppers. Hibiscus tea. Tasty, herbaceous gin infused with juniper berries (in moderation please!) All provide the same beneficial effects already described.

The Tarotcast is a free Tarot reading with a new post every week on Tuesday!
An individualized Tarot reading with me focuses on what’s most important for you, so call 847-735-1718 today for a personalized, in-depth look into your life’s possibilities.

Copyright 2020© Dona C. Murphy, Destiny Tarot®
“Destiny Tarot” and the Destiny Tarot logo are the registered trademarks (servicemarks) of Dona C. Murphy. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced without my permission. Tarot card images: Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot © copyright Ordo Templi Orientis, International Headquarters, JAF Box 7666, New York, NY 10116 USA. All rights reserved.

Two of Cups: Weekly Tarotcast™ – Free Tarot Reading

5-05-20 through 5-12-20

This week’s Tarotcast card is the Two of Cups. The Two of Cups tarot card symbolizes romantic love, marriage and partnerships. It is a more accurate depiction of these than the Major Arcana card, the Lovers. The Two of Cups can show a friendship developing into a romantic relationship. It can mean an engagement or marriage. It also includes the pleasure of enjoying the company of our good friends and family.

The Elements

The Goddess of Love in the house of the Moon elevates Water to its most transcendent level of energy. Receptivity and reflection create unconditional love.

The Number 2

The Twos of the Minor Arcana show balanced but polarized states. The twos are duality. This is our way of seeing and being in the world to understand it. Here we weigh and balance things against their opposites. Good vs. bad, dark vs. light, positive vs. negative. Until we differentiate, we can’t resolve and unify.

Kabbalah

On the Tree of Life, the Two of Cups represents the formula 2. Sephiroth or sphere 2, Chokmah (Wisdom). The sphere of the Zodiac, the Divine Masculine or Yang energy. In the suit of Cups; Briah, the creative world; the element of Water. Our feelings and emotions. Plus, Venus in Cancer equaling Love.

Astrology

The Two of Cups symbolizes Venus in Cancer. It rules from 0 to 10 degrees Cancer, or June 21st to July 1st. If your birthday falls on or between these dates, you’ll be feeling this week’s energy even more than the rest of us. This card depicts the element of water in its best and highest form. Harmony between male and female energies (Yin and Yang), joy and pleasure. Use this gentle, positive energy to open your heart and connect with the people you love.

In real-time astrology, the Sun continues its transit of Earth-sign Taurus. Venus rules Taurus (and Libra). The True North Node of the Moon in Water-sign Cancer has focused our attention on home and family. Domestic duties and matters of the heart have taken center stage. On May 5th, the True North Node of the Moon enters Air-sign Gemini. During this transit, our focus shifts to communication. We strive for effective and authentic messages. It’s vital to get the facts and details right. Avoid jumping to conclusions or dismissing opinions that differ from ours. Listen well and do your best to see both sides of a situation before making decisions.

With the May 7th Full Moon in Scorpio, we’re aware of relationship imbalances. Scorpio is Cancer’s fellow Water-sign. This lunation harmonizes with Neptune and Pluto. This is a great time to make productive and constructive changes. Appreciate the support and encouragement of all the important people in your life. Consider others’ feelings, wants and needs.

May begins a new wave of retrograde planets. On May 11th Saturn retrogrades into Air-sign Aquarius. Jupiter will also retrograde later this month as it does annually. Venus retrogrades in May too, and that is a less-frequent occurrence. We can feel confused and disoriented.

Mercury enters Air-sign Gemini on May 11th. Both Mars and Mercury change signs in May while squaring each other. This can be a difficult time for decision making. If you can delay or postpone, do so until you feel clearer and more certain about your direction.

Finally, Saturn turns retrograde on May 11th in Aquarius and Earth- sign Capricorn. Through September 29th, we’ll be reviewing and reassessing our responsibilities and commitments. Our professional and personal goals come under scrutiny. We may have bouts of guilt and self-doubt due to unexpressed fear. Use this energy to contemplate positive changes. Be ready to act at the turning point this fall.

Shadow

Misuse, darkening or the shadow energy of this card includes disillusionment and separation. Loving energy disrupted or resisted through fear or rejection.

Light

Let’s focus on enjoying the positive aspects by spending time with people we like. Let attractions blossom with people we want to get to know and like even better. It’s a great week to flirt, begin dating, or even fall in love! We can develop an existing relationship and see it move forward in a positive direction.

Alchemy

Power colors: pearl gray, emerald green, sky blue and pale pink for Venus. Amber, maroon and russet for Cancer.

Power stones: emerald, opal, jade, sapphire and lapis lazuli. Wear these as jewelry or carry them as power stones to awaken feelings of love and attraction.

Power metals: silver (for Cancer) and copper (for Venus). I’d opt for the silver of course, but choose whichever makes you happiest, alternate or even combine them.

Power fragrances: poppy, white rose, violet, wild rose, bergamot, geranium, hibiscus, and plumeria. Use these to create a sensuous, relaxed mood. These scents will help you deepen an existing relationship or to attract new love into your life. Use them to help you draw in what (and who) will bring you true happiness.

Power foods: this week’s fruits and vegetables will make tasty meals for those we love. Cancer rules the stomach, Venus the heart – so the way to our loved one’s heart is through their stomach! Prepare foods with apples, watercress, strawberries, poppy seeds and vanilla. Brew teas from hibiscus, rose hips and bergamot. All provide the same beneficial effects already described.

The Tarotcast is a free Tarot reading with a new post every week on Tuesday!
An individualized Tarot reading with me focuses on what’s most important for you, so call 847-735-1718 today for a personalized, in-depth look into your life’s possibilities.

Copyright 2020© Dona C. Murphy, Destiny Tarot®
“Destiny Tarot” and the Destiny Tarot logo are the registered trademarks (servicemarks) of Dona C. Murphy. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced without my permission. Tarot card images: Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot © copyright Ordo Templi Orientis, International Headquarters, JAF Box 7666, New York, NY 10116 USA. All rights reserved.

The Sun: Weekly Tarotcast™ – Free Tarot Reading

  4-28-20 through 5-05-20

This week’s Tarotcast card is The Sun. This card is one of the planetary trumps of the Tarot. In some older fortune-telling traditions, the Sun represents the questioner. It symbolizes the face that the questioner shows to the world. Another, more modern way of interpreting this card is that the Sun reminds us that we are each a solar being. We are light-beings in physical bodies, here in the material world.

This week we can enjoy rewards and recognition for our hard work. We experience success. We’re vindicated in our struggle to overcome opposition or obstacles. We bring tasks to completion.

Kabbalah

On the Tree of Life The Sun card travels Path 30. It joins sephiroth or sphere 8, Hod (Splendor) with sephiroth or sphere 9, Yesod (Foundation). Its Hebrew letter is “Resh” (meaning “head”), and if you think about the face we show the world, that makes perfect sense. We are solar beings in physical bodies. Our brains, eyes, ears, noses and mouths occupy the prime real estate right above our necks. And these are the faculties with which we connect to our world and also with the divine.

Astrology

This card is – you guessed it – the planetary trump of the Sun (what else could it be?)

In real-time astrology, the Sun is transiting Earth-sign Taurus. Mercury is also transiting Taurus. Messages are straightforward and make sense. Communication has a direct, practical quality. Think and speak from the basis of your five senses. Find workable plans and see them through.

Uranus continues its long transit of Taurus (through 2026). This is the planet of revolution, radical change, freedom and independence. Taurus is the sign of finances, the economy, money, property and food. Expect disruption – not always negative – to shake up the status quo. Venus-ruled Taurus also embodies sensual pleasures and a love of the arts and nature. Beauty may come in fierce and wild forms.

Shadow

Misuse, darkening or the shadow energy of this card includes arrogance. Egotism and smug self-assurance. This card too, has a shadow side. The Sun’s light creates shadows, so we would do well to avoid illusions or delusions of grandeur.

Light

Let’s focus on enjoying success. Cultivate optimism. Remember results come into being through intention, decision and action.

Alchemy

Power colors: orange, yellow, gold and red.

Power metals: gold is this week’s metal. Yellow or rose gold are best. Wearing gold, we can feel the positive power and glory of the sun operating in our lives.

Power stones: amber, ruby, diamond, carnelian and tiger’s eye. Wear these as jewelry or carry them as power stones for sunny confidence and a positive outlook.

Power fragrances: marigold, sunflower, heliotrope, orange, rosemary, cedar and frankincense. You’ll feel warm, outgoing, confident and positive (but not arrogant!).

Power foods: foods prepared with orange, rosemary, galangal, cinnamon, clove and sunflower seeds. Beverages made with hops (beer!) or juniper (gin!) – enjoyed in moderation, of course. All provide the same beneficial effects already described.

The Tarotcast is a free Tarot reading with a new post every week on Tuesday!

An individualized Tarot reading with me focuses on what’s most important for you, so call 847-735-1718 today for a personalized, in-depth look into your life’s possibilities.

Copyright 2020© Dona C. Murphy, Destiny Tarot®

“Destiny Tarot” and the Destiny Tarot logo are the registered trademarks (servicemarks) of Dona C. Murphy. All rights reserved. No portion of this article may be reproduced without my permission.  Tarot card images: Aleister Crowley Thoth Tarot © copyright Ordo Templi Orientis, International Headquarters, JAF Box 7666, New York, NY 10116 USA. All rights reserved.