Marisol Velasco July, 2011

I was doing some shopping a few weeks ago and I came across a little deck of cards. Now these really aren’t tarot cards per say however I though that they merit mention and this will be my first deck review of the column.

The deck is called Goddess on the Go by Amy Sophia Marashinsky with art by Melissa Harris.  Each card is 3.5 x 2 and the art work is beautiful with muted colors and soothing images.  The cards are described as love letters to women and they also come with a handy dandy booklet which is chockfull of affirmations. Each card has it’s own affirmation written on it such as “I am filled with tranquility” or “I am a complete success”.  The cards are small enough to be tucked in your pocket or tossed in your purse.

What I love most about these cards beside the small size is that the affirmations are relatable.  How many times throughout the day to we not trust or inner guidance? How would that change for you if you grabbed the card with the affirmation “I am trusting my inner guidance”?  The cards hold positive clips of writing that remind us as women to trust or instinct or be grateful for everything we have. These cards not only benefit adult women but also teen girls who are going through their own life adjustments and insecurities reminding us that we are Goddess in our own right.

Now how do I use these cards?  I love to have small affirmation decks scattered throughout my house. Not only does this allow me to grab one read it and Meditate on it, it also allows guest and family members to do the same. Typically I set the cards out in bowls or small containers where they can be easily grabbed, read and returned.

This particular deck I keep near my bedroom door allowing me to grab one yup on the go and read it and then I spend the day trying to be mindful of the affirmation I read.

Now if you want to use cards as affirmations throughout your day and you don’t have an affirmation deck you can always use your tarot deck. Each card in the tarot deck holds a meaning for instance the ace of cups means contentment, nourishment, abundance etc when you pull that card from the deck you can spend the day meditating on or reminding yourself of the abundance and contentment you have in your life. Another idea is to create your own affirmation cards some retailers actually sell the blank tarot decks where you can create your own deck or you can also buy a small package of artist trading cards easily purchased at any craft or art store. And if you can’t find those use good old blank paper.

Using affirmation cards or the tarot deck as affirmation cards is a great way to keep us grounded and remind ourselves of issues within our lives that we need to be mindful of.  So grab your deck and have fun.

Till next time.

Tags: cards, Divination, review, tarot

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Marisol Velasco June, 2011

I’m very excited about being a part of Pagan Pages and being able to share my knowledge of the Tarot with readers.  Although I’m not an expert I have been reading cards for over 20 years and have also grown quite a collection of cards most of which I don’t use because I have a preference for the Traditional Rider-Waite cards myself however, the Tarot and its history have always interested me and so here I am to share a little of my knowledge with you.

The Tarot is believed by some to be as old as ancient Egypt, but according to historians the tarot didn’t come about till much later.  Playing cards first entered into Europe around the 14^th century known as Tarocca. It wasn’t till much later around the mid 1400’s that the Tarot was created as a simple card game but later around the 1500’s people began to look at the Tarot different and see more meaning in the pictures represented on the card.  However the Tarot didn’t become widely adopted by mystics and occultist until much later around the 18^th and 19^th centuries when Antoine Court de Gébelin wrote an essay interpreting the Tarot as an ancient form of wisdom.

Now what intrigues me about the history of the Tarot is that early versions of these cards where hand painted so a very small amount of decks where privately commissioned and typically it was the upper class that were able to obtain such decks. It wasn’t until the invention of the printing press that mass production of the cards became possible.  Many European governments banned the use of playing cards most likely because they involved gambling however in many areas the tarot during its early stage was exempt from these laws.

Presently we can find a variety of Tarot decks most are usually patterned from one of the most historically important desks called Tarot De Marseilles important because Antoine Court de Gébelin used this deck as his study in the essay he wrote.  Today we find decks ranging from the traditional and most popular Rider Waite Smith and Thoth decks to cards like the Vampire Deck or Deviant Moon Tarot.  Tarot decks have not only become a method of divination but also a form of art with amazing artistic interpretations of each card.  The cards have given birth to other forms of card play and have also touched into other faith based institutes that would otherwise not condone the use of the Tarots you can now find cards such as Soul cards created to inspire creativity to Daily affirmation and intentions cards intended, to like the Tarot cards, guide you into your future.

Tags: card, reading, tarot

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Michele Burke February, 2011

Review

Living Magick Learning Cards

Awhile back I was asked to review the new Living Magick Learning Cards by Jay and Jadzia DeForest and much to my surprise these cards are exactly what they profess to be, Educational Tools for Sacred Living… Each of these three new decks of learning flash cards (Tarot, Rune, and Astrology) come complete with learning cards, reference sheets, and a book unique to each deck. The Tarot flash card deck enables even the beginner to learn to read and divine the Tarot with a complete deck of 84 cards: 78 traditional cards and six informational cards. Each of which has the theme and keywords for both upright and reversed interpretations. The Rune deck contains 55 cards that aid in the learning the theme, keywords, pronunciation, and magickal workings, as well as reverse interpretation of each rune, and a quick reference sheet. While the Astrology learning cards aid in learning the basics of Astrology, they including the houses, planets, aspects, zodiac signs, simple chart casting, and quick reference sheet.

It is not very often such an absolutely astounding new learning tool comes along, but these new learning cards are a definite must have for beginners and expert alike.

5 Thumbs up

http://www.livingmagick.com/

Tags: astrology, review, runes, tarot

• Interviews & Reviews

Reverend Moon Masque November, 2010

The Wheel of Fortune (10)

“Round and round and round she goes, and where she stops, nobody knows.”  ~Anonymous

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck depicts a large wheel moving in a clockwise direction with creatures hovering about on a blanket of billowing clouds. Each creature holds an open book. Along the rim of the wheel are the Hebrew letters ’T’, ’A’, ’R’, and ’O’, and within the center of the wheel are alchemical symbols. A sphinx is perched on top of the wheel, cradling a sword.

Symbols:

Wheel: Change and cycles of life, birth-death-rebirth, cycle of the Zodiac, workings of Fate
T,A,R,O: The nature of the Tarot –‘Tora’ (teaching), ‘Rota’ (wheel), ‘Orat’ (to speak or a message)

Creatures: Fixed signs of the zodiac: Bull = Taurus, Lion = Leo, Eagle = Scorpio, Angel/man = Aquarius
Sphinx: The principle of equilibrium, stability within movement, mystery and hidden knowledge

Eight Spokes: Universal radiant energy

Symbols on the Spokes: (From the top clockwise) Mercury, Sulfur, Water, Salt

Key Words:

Destiny, Unexpected Events, Movement, Turning Point, Patterns & Cycles

Fool‘s Journey:

Staring into the deep blue sky, the Fool watches the clouds swirling above him, visualizing their movement in the form of a great wheel gently rolling across the horizon. Inspired by his vision, the Fool begins to contemplate the world’s wondrous design and its intricate patterns and cycles in connection to the greater Universe.  Although he is aware that the world is riddled with unexpected events that can create surprising turning points in our lives, he feels secure placing his fate in the purposeful hands of destiny.

With his sense of determination restored, the Fool continues his journey.

The Lesson:

To learn how to accept change and understand the workings of fate.

Meaning:

The Wheel of Fortune addresses the age-old debate of fate versus free will.  It suggests we do not always have complete control over everything in our existence. The wheel is a symbol of perpetual motion and serves as a constant reminder that life is always changing, despite any resistance to the contrary. We are all subject to the laws of nature as we move through our lives from birth to death, completing one cycle only to begin yet another.

In readings, the Wheel of Fortune can indicate a turn of events or a twist of fate of which we have little control. We cannot always predict surprises, but through intuition oftentimes we can be made aware of impending changes which may herald a new beginning.  It is our reaction to such changes which will determine if the transformation will be a positive or negative experience.

When the energy of the wheel arrives, we may feel as if life has sped up in a negative sense; sometimes it is necessary to come down, in order to go up again. Other times the wheel’s energy provides a positive momentum, which enables us to let go of the past and move forward to embrace a more fulfilling future.

Tags: card, reading, tarot, wheel

• Divination

Reverend Moon Masque October, 2010

The Hermit (9)

“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”  ~ Carl Gustav Jung

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck portrays an old, bearded man dressed in dreary robes, standing on a desolate peak high in the mountains. His head is bowed and his expression speaks of wisdom and serenity. In his right hand he holds a raised lantern high in the air, casting its illuminating light into the darkness below him. Within the lantern is a brilliant six-pointed star.

Symbols:

Long, White Beard: Age, wisdom
Lantern: To guide those below; “inner light” shared openly with the world
Cloak: Anonymity, mantel of discretion
Mountaintop: Abstract thought, aspirations, path leading to greater heights
Six-Pointed Star (in the lantern): The Seal of Solomon (In legend, a seal ring used by Solomon to control the four elements)

Key Words:

Seeking, Guidance, Solitude, Introspection, Retreat

Fool’s Journey:

In time, the Fool begins to feel a desire for solitude. Retreating to a rustic cabin deep in the woods, he spends many days alone contemplating the deeper meaning of life. One evening, while lost in the introspection of his thoughts, he travels across the bare, autumn landscape and encounters a Hermit carrying a lantern. The lone Hermit, clearly old and wise beyond his years, speaks to the Fool in a raspy voice, whispering simple yet profound words of wisdom, “Seek, and ye shall find”.  Accepting the Hermit’s guidance, the Fool nods his head in acceptance and resumes his journey once more.

The Lesson:

To learn how to look within ourselves for the answers we seek and to guide others while remaining humble.

Meaning:

The lantern of knowledge depicted by the Hermit card represents the illumination of inner self. There are times when we seek deeper enlightenment, and we must embark on an inner spiritual quest to find it. Contemplation, meditation, reflection, and prayer are some of the methods we can use to gain a closer connection to our higher selves. Often times the answers we seek do not lie in the external world but within ourselves.

The Hermit can also indicate a time of withdrawal or retreat. Finding a “still center” in the midst of action or high energy can create balance, allowing us to better analyze our thoughts and feelings.  By stepping away from distractions and diversions we can obtain greater enlightenment and clarity.

In readings, the Hermit can also suggest a period of isolation or seclusion. Peace and solitude can teach us a great deal about ourselves and provide answers we may not have otherwise taken the time to seek.  Like the Hermit, by learning wisdom and patience through the passage of time, we are able to learn how to stand alone without feeling lonely.

The Hermit also speaks of guidance. Whether it be the advice we receive or the assistance we provide others, guidance can shine light on darker situations, making life seem less mysterious and confusing.  Such direction can help us continue to grow and learn as we press forward toward that which we truly seek.

Tags: card, hermit, reading, tarot

• Divination

Reverend Moon Masque September, 2010

The Hermit (9)

“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”  ~ Carl Gustav Jung

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck portrays an old, bearded man dressed in dreary robes, standing on a desolate peak high in the mountains. His head is bowed and his expression speaks of wisdom and serenity. In his right hand he holds a raised lantern high in the air, casting its illuminating light into the darkness below him. Within the lantern is a brilliant six-pointed star.

Symbols:

Long, White Beard: Age, wisdom
Lantern: To guide those below; “inner light” shared openly with the world
Cloak: Anonymity, mantel of discretion
Mountaintop: Abstract thought, aspirations, path leading to greater heights
Six-Pointed Star (in the lantern): The Seal of Solomon (In legend, a seal ring used by Solomon to control the four elements)

Key Words:

Seeking, Guidance, Solitude, Introspection, Retreat

Fool’s Journey:

In time, the Fool begins to feel a desire for solitude. Retreating to a rustic cabin deep in the woods, he spends many days alone contemplating the deeper meaning of life. One evening, while lost in the introspection of his thoughts, he travels across the bare, autumn landscape and encounters a Hermit carrying a lantern. The lone Hermit, clearly old and wise beyond his years, speaks to the Fool in a raspy voice, whispering simple yet profound words of wisdom, “Seek, and ye shall find”.  Accepting the Hermit’s guidance, the Fool nods his head in acceptance and resumes his journey once more.

The Lesson:

To learn how to look within ourselves for the answers we seek and to guide others while remaining humble.

Meaning:

The lantern of knowledge depicted by the Hermit card represents the illumination of inner self. There are times when we seek deeper enlightenment, and we must embark on an inner spiritual quest to find it. Contemplation, meditation, reflection, and prayer are some of the methods we can use to gain a closer connection to our higher selves. Often times the answers we seek do not lie in the external world but within ourselves.

The Hermit can also indicate a time of withdrawal or retreat. Finding a “still center” in the midst of action or high energy can create balance, allowing us to better analyze our thoughts and feelings.  By stepping away from distractions and diversions we can obtain greater enlightenment and clarity.

In readings, the Hermit can also suggest a period of isolation or seclusion. Peace and solitude can teach us a great deal about ourselves and provide answers we may not have otherwise taken the time to seek.  Like the Hermit, by learning wisdom and patience through the passage of time, we are able to learn how to stand alone without feeling lonely.

The Hermit also speaks of guidance. Whether it be the advice we receive or the assistance we provide others, guidance can shine light on darker situations, making life seem less mysterious and confusing.  Such direction can help us continue to grow and learn as we progress forward toward that which we truly seek.

Tags: cards, reading, tarot

• Divination

Reverend Moon Masque August, 2010

Strength (8)

“To bend like a reed in the wind — that is real strength.”  ~Lao-tzu

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck portrays a serene woman gently closing/opening a lion’s mouth. Her robes are accessorized with flowers, and a blossoming wreath adorns her head. Like the Magician, the infinity symbol is shown hovering above her.  The lion appears calm and subdued. With his tail tucked behind him, he patiently accepts her tender care.

Symbols:

Lion: Animal instinct within us all, forces or influences that could be potentially harmful
Lemniscate (infinity symbol): Infinity, endless possibility
Woman: Femininity
Flowers: Beauty, grace, and kindness
White Dress: Purity

Key Words:

Strength, Patience, Compassion, Soft Control, Courage

Fool‘s Journey:

The Fool, now feeling proud and powerful from his knowledge of victory, next encounters during his journey a maiden and a lion. Amazed by her courage he watches the young woman gently, but firmly close the lion’s mouth. The furious beast passively accepts the maiden’s command, surrendering itself to her soft control. Afterwards, the maiden patiently explains to the Fool how he, too, can utilize the attributes of compassion and strength for higher purposes. Haveing been enlightened by the Maiden’s pure insights, the Fool continues his journey.

The Lesson:

To learn how to remain courageous in the face of adversity and overcome obstacles through compassionate strength.

Meaning:

While the Chariot card shows the masculine technique of overcoming our animal nature through mastery and firm control, Strength demonstrates the feminine method of tempering willful energies by using kindness and a soft touch. However, neither the masculine nor feminine approach is better than the other in helping to keep intense passions and impulses under control; they can each work equally well in different situations.

In readings, Strength can represent patience and compassion. It’s easy to become angry when a situation provokes intense negative emotions. However dealing with a frustration calmly, accepting others, and practicing the delicate art of forgiveness takes great strength. When this card appears it may suggest that gentle manipulation in the form of empathy and kindness is needed .

Strength can also symbolize steadfast bravery in the face of adversity. Inner strength comes from within, and can grace us with the quiet qualities of courage, perseverance, and resolve. When our lives seem difficult, the Strength card urges us not to give up but to maintain an unwavering determination to remain true to ourselves and our beliefs.

Tags: cards, reading, tarot

• Divination

Reverend Moon Masque July, 2010

The Chariot (7)

“Self-discipline is crucial to a simpler, more contented life.”  ~Tenzin Gyatso

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck portrays a man in a decorated chariot being drawn by majestic black and white sphinxes. In his right hand he holds a wand. His body is covered in protective armor, and his chariot is graced with a prominent winged shield of symbolic design. Behind him the motifs of a medieval city rise in the distance.

Symbols:

Armor: Readiness and preparation

Chariot: Movement

Sphinxes: Triumph of the mind

Wand: Inspiration and action

Black & White: Positive and negative energies

Wheels: Cycles, motion

Key Words:

Triumph, Ambition, Assertiveness, Firm Control, Motivation

Fool’s Journey:

Having mastered the lessons of lovers, the Fool continues his journey with a greater understanding of the world around him. As he walks onward, pondering his experiences, he sees a proud and commanding charioteer riding triumphantly toward him. Ambitious to learn, the Fool spends time with the charioteer studying his qualities of assertiveness and self-confidence.  The Fool soon discovers that in order to achieve true mastery over himself he must exert firm control over his base instincts. Feeling motivated by this new knowledge, he resumes his travels in an earnest search of his own victories.

The Lesson:

To learn how to master our own chaotic forces so we may triumph in our goals.

Meaning:

The Charioteer fights alone, seeking to gain the advantage by striking from the side. His steeds keep the wheels of his chariot turning, however, it is his control and direction that brings him triumph. Whether our challenges be obstacles, circumstances, emotions, or human desires, there are times when we must firmly grasp the reigns of our own chariot and do battle for our personal victories.

In readings, the Chariot can personify the positive strength, confidence, and assertiveness required to move forward to obtain the goals we desire. However, the Chariot can also signal a ruthless, diehard desire to win despite the cost. Success and triumph can be glorious under the right circumstances, but only when we are certain the sacrifices of the battle are truly worth the prize. After all, the victory is only the beginning.

The Chariot can sometimes appear when a situation or environment harbors the energies of hard control. At its best, hard control is not brutal; it is firm and direct, backed by a strong will and great self-confidence. Its powerful influences are sometimes required when we wish to draw separate paths into a single direction of our own choosing.

Likewise, the Chariot can portray the influential winds of ambition and motivation — potent energies that can provide the movement necessary to set our aspirations to sail.

Tags: cards, reading, tarot

• Divination

Sage Sinclair July, 2010

divination is something that every human marvels about. A Tarot reading by an experienced interpreter can be quite informative. The way the cards are presented in a layout tells quite a story. Each card laid out represents something that could be within the Querent’s life. Each placement of the cards tells what part of the Querent’s life the card is revealing. All the pieces of information given in a reading is important. Each card is different and each card has its own meaning. True believers take into account every detail that is revealed in their reading. I would like to take a look at Harmony this month from the Shape Shifter Tarot By DJ Conway and Sirona Knight. The traditional card is Four of Swords from the arthur Edward Waite deck.

Two Swans swim in perfect unison on a quiet stream which is called the Flow of Life. One Positive Energy and one Negative Energy. Becoming one entity, the wing of the black swan covers the back of the white one.
The swan’s symbolize Intuitive Dreams and Spiritual Guidance and are in perfect Harmony neither negative nor positive dominating the other.
Behind them is a waterfall that is ally flowing into the water.
Spiritual guidance pours into the stream of life for each of us, we just need to slow down and take time to See it.
The beautiful bridge is a symbol of the Connection of the Physical and Spiritual Worlds.
The vague faces at the base of the Bridge are past lives and the seeker shall discover the true identity of the Destiny that leads into the Future.
Messages sent from the Deities are given to the Dove that flies over the bridge.
Along the banks of the stream are Trees, Ivy, Poppies and other Sweet smelling Flowers.
The Flowers are the Seeds of Renewal that are all Around us.
Restless Energy is now Calmed, a time of Harmony is now in your Hands.
Guidance may come in Dreams and Hunches, so paying close Attention is Essential.
Happiness replaces the patterns of Melancholy and Creates a balance of Good Luck. The Actions of your Journey will now take you to Your Prosperity.
A romance is Close to you.
The Key Words to Remember are: Prosperity, Harmony and Romance.
THE FOUR OF WANDS

Two Female Figures stand next to a Bridge that leads to an Old Manorial House. First they must Cross over the Moat.
Four great Wands Planted firmly in the ground with a Garland draped around them.
Reaching their Safe Place the two females uplift an ornament of Flowers and face the Wands.
They have reached their Harmony, Peace and Prosperity and Taking Pride in Perfecting these Works.
The key words to remember are: Prosperity, Increase, Intense Happiness, Beauty and Embellishment.

Tags: tarot

• Divination

Reverend Moon Masque June, 2010

The Lovers (6)

“This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is a most marvelous thing; it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is sort of a Divine accident.” ~ Horace Walpole

Image Description:

The Rider-Waite deck portrays a man and woman standing nude beneath a great winged figure hovering above them. Behind the man is the Tree of Life bearing twelve leaves. Behind the woman is the Tree of Knowledge, which enables one to distinguish between Good and Evil; the serpent is entwined around the tree’s trunk.

Symbols:

Man and Woman: Masculine and feminine, metaphor for opposites

Nudity: Honesty, openness

Angel: Higher Self

Tree of Life: Creation, completion

Tree of Knowledge: Discernment, free will, the secret of mortality

Serpent: Wisdom, knowledge of self

Key Words:

Relationships, Sexuality, Personal Beliefs, Values, Choices

Fool’s Journey:

The Fool continues his journey with growing energy, confidence, and purpose. Coming to a crossroad, he encounters a woman there who awakens within him a sense of sexuality and the desire for a loving relationship. The Fool is now faced with a choice. He must decide if he would like to continue on his original path alone or embark on a new path with the woman. He must examine his personal beliefs and values to make the right decision. After much thought, he chooses her, and for a while they create a new future together.

The Lesson:

To learn how to love ourselves and others unconditionally, while maintaining our values and personal beliefs.

Meaning:

We can learn a great deal about ourselves through other people. In close relationships we are given the unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of who we are. The parts of ourselves that we deny or repress, or are simply unaware exist, are often mirrored in our partners. When these unknown aspects of our nature are reflected back to us, we are able to increase our self-awareness. Such exploration can help us reinforce or recreate our values and personal beliefs.

The Lovers card can appear when our choices are about to be put to the test. It can foretell a poignant adventure that may require an emotional trial or crucial decision. Sometimes we must leave something equally important behind to achieve our hearts desire. In such instances, careful consideration of what one stands to gain and lose is required before reaching a conclusion.

In readings, the Lovers card can also signify a powerful relationship based on love, attraction, commitment, and/or sexual passion. In its highest form, deep emotional connections can take us beyond ourselves into new and exciting frontiers. Likewise, this same type of union can be experienced in nonsexual relationships, taking its form in people, ideas, events, actions, and groups.

Tags: Divination, reading, tarot

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