Start Today with Guidance and a Glimpse of Possibilities

The High Priestess sits, stable as a rock yet fluid as the waters behind her, representing one of the archetypes of femininity. Here, she is the untouchable mystery: the curtains behind her screen our view of the sea, representing the cost of looking upon such power. We may glance it in snatches before the veil falls back into place again. And yet these brief moments of absolute clarity can be some of the most important of our lives, if we heed them and use them.

Authority and determination come to mind with the King Of Swords. This is a character who acts with clarity and confidence in his actions. He is often looked to for advice and leadership because he is known for his sound judgment and mediation skills. He has the ability to be a force of authority through inspiration and intelligence.

The King of Pentacles represents wealth and influence. In the depiction of this card, the king holds a scepter representing the extent of his power, while the gold in his opposite hand represents the amount of material wealth he has within his reach. He is in a position of leadership and a high level of control. The greenery at his feet that takes shape in plants and flowers conveys material successes. 

The Hermit stands on a high peak, hooded and alone. The star-shine of his lantern is the only light to guide his passage through the mountain passes. This card represents isolation, but not loneliness; it symbolizes the light that we all carry within us, that can show us the path to take if we can block life’s distracting dazzle for a moment so that we may find it.

In this card the Hierophant sits, Pope-like on a raised throne, while two acolytes pay homage to him or await his bidding, In full regalia, with crown and scepter, The Hierophant is the point at which The Emperor and The Magician combine - he is the master of the stage, but, unlike the former, there is no element of service here and, contrary to the latter, The Hierophant does not wield his power lightly or playfully. Depending on the context, this is not necessarily a bad thing.

In this card we see a figure who wields all the suits of the Major Arcana with confidence: in his raised hand he holds a Wand, while on the table (or altar) before him lies a Pentacle, a Cup, and a Sword. They await his will. And herein lies the key to understanding this powerful card: The Magician is intention. He is the focused assertion of the will and the paths that open before us as a result.