Start Today with Guidance and a Glimpse of Possibilities

We see in the traditional Rider Waite image of the Seven of Wands the figure of a man in the midst of battle; despite the clear effort and intense focus of his expression, he has literally risen above his attackers and is holding the high ground. We do not see his adversaries, simply the Wands with which they are fighting; we have the sense that, despite their greater number, he is in no danger of being overwhelmed.

Wands relate to the element of fire, and the suit’s Ace represents its essence: drive, action, energy, movement, and opportunity. And yet fire can burn, too; it has the potential to cause destruction, and these things are also represented in the cards of Wands.

The Eight of Pentacles represents working hard and producing something that is substantial as a result. This card depicts an artist working in stone which symbolizes craftsmanship, employment, and diligence. This indicates how consistent hard work coincides with achievement. It can also represent recognition from others for such skills.

The Queen of Wands sits comfortably and firmly on her throne; in the traditional Rider Waite image she holds her Wand in one hand and a sunflower in the other, and a black cat sits before her, symbolizing protection. The Queen looks calmly out at us and the landscape around her, deeply receptive and appreciative of the good things that life offers her.

The Knight of Pentacles emphasizes patience and growth. The knight sits on a horse holding a gold coin in no hurry to charge forward. He is in no rush to thrust himself forward before he has thoroughly explored his options and course of action. The knight is prepared to do the heavy lifting in order to achieve his goals the right and honorable way.

The theme of love continues in the Two of Cups: the Rider Waite image depicts a young man and woman holding their Cups out to each other. Note its compositional similarity to The Lovers: the winged lion represents the merging of spirituality with physical passion, and the symbol beneath it is the caduceus of Hermes, which relates to wisdom and healing. We see in this card the great transformative power of love.