Elliot Adam's Blog, page 57
September 28, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Page of Swords
“Lowering unnecessary defenses.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
The Page of Swords represents unnecessary defensiveness. These defenses guard a wounded area of the heart that needs healing. The Page of Swords guards himself from the feedback others give, which stunts his development. He often pretends that he is fine, and that it’s everyone else who has the issue. If the Page of Swords could lower his unneeded defenses, he would experience a huge breakthrough. His openness would get him past the blockages he keeps experiencing. He would then ascend to the next level.
Do you ever get defensive? (If you rush to say “No!” then this card is for you!) Is it difficult to hear honest critical feedback from others? Is fear of people seeing your vulnerabilities causing you to shut down, or detach?
The Page of Swords is often misunderstood and has been described as dishonest. However, this really isn’t a fair assessment. He is not a “liar,” because he has no awareness of his dishonesty. He is unable to assess himself accurately. His ego gets in the way. The Page of Swords is not a bad person. He is in denial about some difficult feelings. He also has more maturing to do.
Maturing?! He doesn’t agree! He is never wrong. He is always the best at what he does. He’s read the most books, won the most games, and has the most achievements. He is cleverer than the other Pages of the Tarot. He says, “They think I need to mature?!” “They’re crazy!” “Look at how stupid they are.” “I’m smarter than them anyway!”
Look closely at the Page of Swords’ position in the picture. He is guarding himself. The sword is raised to swing at any incomer. It is difficult to hug this Page. You just can’t seem to get close. He is in total defensive position. Even the biting winds of his words warn you to keep distant. The cold winds upset the birds above, and lash at the trees. All this defensiveness is a mask for hurt. A feeling of vulnerability that others will discover the Page of Swords doesn’t feel one hundred percent confident about what he is doing. If he could open himself to taking honest feedback, and admit he doesn’t know everything, he would experience a huge breakthrough.
The Page of Swords represents the part of us that resists having vulnerabilities seen. He shows up in ourselves when we lash out in defense of our pride. He also appears in the form of other individuals in our day to day interactions that have no self-awareness. When the Page of Swords comes in the form of another person, he will often trigger your own inner “Page of Swords” reaction. This is why he can be so irritating when he appears in the behaviors of people at work, or family members you are struggling with. Don’t get irritated or triggered when the Page of Swords appears. Thank him! For he is revealing the resistant part of you that needs to be more vulnerable and open in order to improve.
*Page of Swords in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Page of Swords can represent a love interest who is charming and funny, but who is also emotionally unavailable. He (or she) may be mercurial and send out mixed signals. No matter how successful or intelligent the Page of Swords appears, there is also an element of insecurity. The Page of Swords can also represent a partner who is guarded or aloof.
Long Term Partnership
The Page of Swords can signify a partner that is not taking responsibility for his (or her) own part to play in relationship challenges. There could be an opportunity for one or both partners to make a significant breakthrough if they can be vulnerable enough to admit when they’re wrong and what needs to change.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Page of Swords asks if you are sending mixed signals. Although you may “say” that you want to connect, your body language might come off as being too guarded. The Page of Swords can highlight struggles with being more vulnerable. Be mindful of the signals you are sending.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 27, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Seven of Pentacles
"My accomplishments are proof I am something."
Order my full book on Amazon!
The Seven of Pentacles represents stopping to look around you and appreciate what you've created. It symbolizes the need to periodically review your progress; what you have achieved, and what you are still working toward. The road may not have been easy, and the work may not be over, but your foundation is firmly rooted. This card reminds you to stop ignoring or minimizing your accomplishments!
What positive results have you manifested in your life? Have you ever written down your achievements to see how much you've done? Do you ever stop to look around and appreciate all that you've created and worked for?
The man in the card is taking a break from his carefully cultivated fields. The fields aren't quite ready for harvest, but the man surveys the work that he did with a sense of pride. He did this himself, and he sees the results he created. He is able to stop being productive long enough to truly appreciate what he has manifested. He's hardly an ego maniac (look at his clothes!), but he does have a healthy sense of self-esteem that only hard work engenders.
Today you need to write five positive life results you've fought hard to achieve. Five things that you could have given up on, if you took the easy way out. Five things that showed you actually "can" do it! Five things that proved that you can persevere. What achievements are you most proud of? Take your time and think.......
Got your list?
Now look at the items on the list as if you were seeing them for the first time. Remember the phase in your life before you achieved this. What did life look like then? What adversity did you overcome to get to this point? Was it hard not to give up? Take pride in each item on your list. Thank your body for not quitting, and your mind for not breaking. Thank your heart for mending itself through the painful times. Thank your spirit for raising you up, over the obstacles. This is what you made, and your "self" needs to be thanked for it. To achieve more positivity in your life, you must clearly see (and appreciate) what you've already manifested.
You can achieve any positive result you want for your future. Just look at your list, you've done it before.
*Seven of Pentacles in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Seven of Pentacles emphasizes a clear message: “take your time!” You are on the right track, but events are still changing, growing, and developing. Take it slow. Be present and enjoy the moments you are creating with your new love interest, rather than getting too far ahead of yourself with future fears or plans. Stay present.
Long Term Partnership
Your relationship has matured slowly and steadily over the years. You can count on your partner to remain consistent and to seek the most practical route toward future security. You’ve both arrived at a stage in your life where there will be fewer surprises. Long-term investments, both personally and financially, are finally paying off.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, rest assured that everything is growing and developing as it should. There is nothing you need to “do” to expedite the appearance of the relationship you want. It simply isn’t time yet. Stay busy with what is working out in your life. Your heart’s desire is still on its way.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 26, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Ten of Cups
“Gratitude.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
The Ten of Cups represents gratitude for the magic that's weaving through your life, right at this very moment. You can't see this magic if you are on autopilot, mad, stressed, or anxious. You can only perceive it if you choose to stop feeding tension, step out of your routines, and open your eyes to the miracles at play. When you open yourself to this magic, great things begin to happen in your life. This shimmering magic is darting about everywhere, but you may have to adjust your perspective to see it.
Do "problems" seem to suck all the oxygen out of your day? Do you know you "have it good," but just can't seem to see it, feel it, or sense it? Is there stress, anger, or tension living in your heart?
The family on the card is like any other. They have problems to solve, work to do, kids to raise, and routines that govern their day. And yet, they are doing something that many of us don't do enough. They are soaking in the magic at play in their lives, in the present. The home that the family shares is in the distance, nestled in a thicket of trees on the hilltop. It is where they spend most of their time. In the house, love prevails... but there is also bickering, disagreements, and squabbles between the children that need to be broken up.
Being in the house, it is difficult for the family to actually see the house. So, the husband took his wife and kids out of their home, and up the road. The family stepped out of routines and held each other close. When the husband and wife looked back at their home, a magical thing happened. A colorful rainbow filled the sky, illuminating each of their blessings. They were alive. They had such a love for each other. This love made everything alright.
The couple raises their hands in gratitude for the abundance they have. The children are overcome as well, and dance merrily in the moment. The family now have a new perspective of the magic they don't always see. They were so close to this magic, that they were unable to see it.
Choose to see in the magic weaving through your life. To see this magic, you might need to step out of the house, and away from your routines. If you do get a glimpse of it, it might just fill your heart, and make your eyes a little misty.
When the Ten of Cups appears it’s time to open your heart to those you love most. Give them a hug and tell them how important they are. Acknowledge the love that is all around you and do something to increase it.
There is magic dancing through your life. It weaves into your spirit and connects you with everyone and everything around you. It's in the air, the water, the trees, the people you love, and in every particle of light.
Whisper a word of gratitude.... for today is completely magical!
*Ten of Cups in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Ten of Cups promises an auspicious beginning. It is likely that both partners have endured some difficulties in their past relationships which makes the sweetness of the present moment so enthralling. This card can also signify compatible long-term priorities. As with all idyllic cards in the tarot, keep your expectations in check as you get to know this person more… but enjoy!
Long Term Partnership
The Ten of Cups represents a happy couple. This is not to say that you both haven’t endured your share of stormy skies. However, the core of this relationship is loving, compatible, and strong. This card often appears during a great relationship rite of passage such as marriage, buying a home, or starting a family. The best of times await.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Ten of Cups advises you to keep the faith that you will meet that special someone. You may have endured your share of storms, but the rainbow of hope is delivering a promising message to you. The Universe is bringing the right person at the right time, and not before. So, relax and enjoy this moment! A watched pot never boils.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 25, 2022
The Card of the Day: Judgment
“Rebirth.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
Judgment symbolizes rebirth, renewal, and restoration. It represents reawakening and returning to life after loss. Often, when people see this card, they are afraid that somehow this card means that they will be "judged." The only judgment that this card decrees is that you are worthy to rise again, and make your life as joyful, healthy, and full as it can be. Judgment represents your ability to abandon the thoughts, habits, and attitudes that keep your mind in "death consciousness." Fear, hopelessness, avoidance, procrastination, self-limiting behaviors; these are all mental graves that it's time to step out of now!
Do you wish you could just "snap out" of the depressive feeling that you are slogging through life like the walking dead? Have you been avoiding a personal goal that promises to make your life better because you are afraid of failing? Have you forgotten that you still have the power to make your dreams come true?
A luminous angel emerges from the clouds, blowing the golden trumpet of life. It resonates across the whole of the earth. All that was once dead, lost, and forgotten rises again; reborn and revived. A new day has dawned. The graves are cast aside. Today there is a life to live!
All the figures on this card represent the different facets of you. The angel is your "best-self, or higher consciousness," calling the long dead parts of yourself to return to life. Dreams abandoned, goals forsaken, hopes that were crushed; all these trials were necessary to make you the strong person you are today. It wasn't for nothing. The angel is the voice in your head that says "What am I doing? I deserve better! I am ready to get the most out of life!"
When Judgment appears, your best-self is giving you a wakeup call. It's time to get up and step out of the self-imposed grave your mind has been confined to. Today it's time to push past self-limiting behaviors about your potential and worth. Breathe new life into projects and dreams long thought dead. You can start living the life you want now, today, at this moment, if you summon the courage to step up and live consciously. Rise up like the fiery phoenix and out the ashes.
Everything in nature changes and dies. It can be sad to look back at the times when something important felt lost and you felt forsaken. But remember, everything in nature reflects rebirth. This includes you. This is the Divine and natural law. This is the benevolent judgment of the Universe.
*Judgment in a Love Reading
New Relationship
Judgment can symbolize that one or both partners have undergone a major life change and are now ready to start the next chapter. This might make both people rather cautious. Although past difficulties have been experienced, a fresh breeze is blowing through. As of this moment, the future is wide open. Enjoy this time of revitalization and renewal.
Long Term Partnership
The appearance of Judgment symbolizes new beginnings after many trials and tribulations. It’s time to release “dead energy” within your partnership to experience a positive renewal. You may also recognize where you have been taking your partnership for granted and are beginning to see it again, as if for the first time.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, Judgment can signify that the opportunity for love will be more likely if you open yourself to new experiences. The old ways don’t work anymore. The past is the past. It’s time to move on and start anew. Like the phoenix, you are rising from the ashes.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 24, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Queen of Swords
“Personal authority.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
The Queen of Swords symbolizes bringing order to chaos through discipline and boundaries. She is also an archetype that does not apologize for her right to have a "place at the table." The Queen of Swords stands up to bullies and societal pressures. She questions the legitimacy of structures and rules that do not make logical sense. She keeps an eagle eye on maintaining her strength, integrity, and personal authority at all times.
Are you uncomfortable with setting up boundaries with others because you might look "mean?" Is your career or life path in harmony with your authentic self? Is it difficult for you to stand up to the pressures of what others think you should be or do?
The Queen of Swords gets a lot of bad press. This is because she is not a docile, submissive, objectified woman. She is too powerful to be minimized by mindless societal roles and conventions. She uses her sword to cut through the "BS" of others' assumptions about how she should act, and what she should be. She knows that if she bows down to the demands of what others want her to be, she is selling herself out. She keeps boundaries in place because this is how people and organizations become healthy and grow. She is a master of transforming the energy from victimhood to personal power (look at her butterfly crown). She commands respect because she respects herself first.
Even in this day and age, our society still has a problem with seeing women in strong leadership roles. Early on we are taught that women should be "likable" and "selfless," rather than strong, powerful, and ambitious. Women who embody the energy of the Queen of Swords are sometimes ostracized, despised, and ridiculed for no other reason than: "I just think she's a B#%*@." However, some of the best rulers history ever produced were strong women like Queen Hatshepsut of Egypt, Queen Elizabeth I of England, and Empress Catherine the Great of Russia.
Today embrace your personal authority, strength, and power. To achieve this you may need to be more self-disciplined or create some much needed boundaries. It's important to speak up to solve present issues and problems. You are strong and capable. Banish any "victim thinking."
Do not apologize for your strength, power, or authentic self. Own it.
*Queen of Swords in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Queen of Swords can represent a guarded personality. She (or he) has probably learned in the past how much love can sting. Be patient and pique her intellectual interest. Appeal to this person’s mind and you can begin to appeal to their heart. The Queen of Swords can represent an individual who is attracted to an intellectually mature partner without drama.
Long Term Partnership
For an established relationship, the Queen of Swords can represent a power couple who share mutual professional and life goals. However, physical intimacy can become neglected in this relationship. The Queen of Swords all too easily detaches from physical pleasure, and her partner may require physical intimacy more than she does. Honest communication can help.
Seeking Romance
If you are single, the Queen of Swords encourages you to seize your power. Enjoy your unlimited freedom and opportunities leading toward your best life. Pursue all opportunities that lead toward personal success. The sky is the limit for what you will attain. The love you are looking for will likely find you when you find independent bliss and success.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 23, 2022
The Card of the Day: Justice
"Honesty."
Order my full book on Amazon!
Justice is the archetype of honesty, which is essential for restoring balance and harmony. Lady Justice grasps her mighty Sword of Truth. Her goal is to restore order and equilibrium, symbolized by the golden scales she holds in her left hand. The Justice figure in the tarot is not blindfolded. She sees the situations confronting her clearly. The sword she wields represents that assertive action is needed to cut away the source of our imbalance. Imbalance often occurs when we aren’t being one-hundred percent honest with ourselves. Lady Justice restores balance and clarity through facts.
Does your life feel balanced right now? What do you need more or less of? Do you need to speak your truth to yourself or another, even if the thought of it makes you uncomfortable?
Justice personifies that little voice within us that is observing the truth of a given situation, no matter how inconvenient that truth might be. The figure of Justice is flanked by two gray pillars. The color gray is associated with neutrality.[1] Whenever Justice appears it is helpful to look at all the facts in an unbiased, neutral manner. To be neutral requires that you not let your emotions and expectations distort the facts. Wanting to believe something is true even when the facts prove otherwise will place you on a collision course with a rude awakening. If you look closely, Lady Justice has a square clasp at her neck and a square jewel in her crown. Squares are associated with honesty and strong foundations. We’ve all heard the expression “fair and square.” In astrology squares aren’t considered easy aspects, but they are considered responsible for the development of character and strength. The squares decorating Lady Justice symbolize that truth may not always be easy to confront initially. However, if you choose to proceed with integrity and honesty, you will find yourself on a stable pathway toward happiness, harmony and success.
Lady Justice reminds you to be clear with yourself and others about what you need to restore harmony. Be warned however, it may require you to add the word "N-N-N-N-N-N-No!" to your vocabulary. Justice advises you to approach the source of your imbalance dispassionately. The scales of justice symbolize the need to weigh all the facts before deciding how best to act.
If you've already been doing the work of facing your life honestly, Lady Justice arrives to declare, "Good for you! Isn’t the sensation of balance derived from honesty wonderful?" It takes courage to be honest with yourself. This is especially true if you are attached to a certain outcome. Other cards that appear around Justice can highlight which areas of your life require honesty at this time.
*Justice in a Love Reading
New Relationship
Justice can signify a new partner who is attracted to intelligence, beauty, and elegance. They are repelled by crudeness and have refined taste. Proper etiquette is required when courting this person. They are most attracted to intellectually curious people. Justice people also love to debate issues… just so long as the discussion doesn’t become too heated.
Long Term Partnership
Justice can symbolize a well-balanced, complimentary partnership. Each person strives to uphold the relationship’s integrity through honesty. Often, this card will appear when an important truth needs to be confronted with neutrality. Justice can also indicate legally binding, contractual matters that may make your lives together more “official.”
Seeking Romance
If you are single, Justice encourages you to seek a relationship partner in an intellectual environment, such as a university, class, or community organization. Broaden your horizons and open your mind to people who aren’t what you consider your “physical type.” You may discover a connection of common interest that leads to something far more substantive.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
[1] Alexandra Collins Dickerman, Following Your Path: Using Myths, Symbols and Images to Explore Your Inner Life (Los Angelos: Jeremy P. Tarcher Inc., 1992), 290.
September 22, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Five of Pentacles (Reversed)
“Identifying where your energy is being wasted."
[image error]Order my full book on Amazon!
The Five of Pentacles represents poverty and neediness. Poverty is not just a financial condition one suffers; it is a pervasive state of mind. "How am I going to pay for this?" "If I don't give him more money for the hundredth time it will be my fault if something bad happens?" "I wish I could just get lucky and win the lottery." "I'm just not good with money." "When can I get out of this debt?" "Why am I so worthless?" "Why don't they appreciate me?"
These are all examples of poverty consciousness. Even rich people can get stuck in poverty consciousness. This is because poverty is not actually about money. It's really about self-esteem.
Do you ever feel that success is granted to everybody else but continues to elude you? Are you adequately compensated for the work you do? Do you feel confident enough to put up boundaries with others? Do you value yourself and the services you provide? Do you need to get a new job?
The people depicted on the Five of Pentacles have fallen on hard times. They are sick and injured. Behind them is a cathedral, emitting warmth and glowing with light. The poor folks on the card don’t even think to enter. They are rejected “untouchables.” The feel they are on the outside. They truly don’t consider themselves as worthy of a place inside. They have allowed poverty consciousness to enter their hearts. Once this belief is let in, it’s challenging to cast it out.
In ancient Greece the Goddess of Poverty was named Penia. This Goddess would wander from house to house, much like the vagabonds on the card. Penia would bang on the doors of everyone until someone without boundaries let her in. Once Penia was in the house, it was so difficult to get her to leave. She would constantly make the occupants feel obligated, worthless and guilty. Penia stayed indefinitely until the individual took back their home by casting her out. In this case, the home is a symbol for one’s heart.
Giving to others and being of service must be done with boundaries. The old saying: "Give a man a fish feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him a lifetime," encapsulates this truth.
There is one force on the planet that can eradicate poverty consciousness: Self-Esteem. When you feel smart, capable, competent, and confident you know your self-worth. If an individual feels worthy, poverty consciousness cannot gain a foothold. Unscrupulous individuals can't "use" people who are strong in their sense of self-worth. Users and manipulators are like predators. They go for the weakest one when hunting for a sucker. The Five of Pentacles alerts you to any person or situation that seeks to make you feel less than. It’s time to create strong boundaries.
Know your worth and value. Stop giving yourself away if you are running on empty. Put up boundaries with needy individuals. Speak up for yourself! Help others only if they are helping themselves. Go for your best opportunities.
When the Five of Pentacles appears reversed, it asks you to identify any areas of your life that you are pouring energy into, without seeing any improvement. This can come in the form of giving your energy to "psychic vampires," spending your time to people that don't respect it or pouring your money into a situation or person that continues to make you feel bad or guilty. At the root of these experiences are questions of worth, and more importantly, what sort of life you feel you are worthy of. Stop spending energy, time and money on people or situations that leave you feeling depleted. Ask yourself, “What is the area of my life that is the biggest energy-waster?”
The Five of Pentacles reversed also asks you to monitor the quality of your thoughts. You don't have to hold onto thoughts just because you have them. Some thoughts are garbage and need to be thrown away. Upright or reversed, the Five of Pentacles asks you to reject any thoughts that undermine your sense of value. Affirm only those thoughts that make you feel good about yourself.
The Five of Pentacles reversed reminds you to stop giving yourself away to experiences that make you feel empty. You can choose to throw out any thought, person, or experience that does not make you feel good about who you are, how far you've come, and where you are going. You are becoming more aware of the love, blessings, and abundance that surrounds you. You are coming out of the bitter snow, and toward the warmth of the hearth. Remember that you are worthy of each blessing you have, and all those that are still on the way.
*Five of Pentacles (Reversed) in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The Five of Pentacles reversed warns you to steer clear of people who don’t have their life together. Users, energy vampires, or people who play head games will always try to latch onto someone whose energy, money, or resources they can drain. You do not have to sacrifice yourself in payment for a manipulative person to stay.
Long Term Partnership
Your partner either struggles financially or is emotionally depleted. They may not have the resources physically, mentally, or emotionally to give you the life that you deserve. If you are getting less investment than you are giving, then you must make them aware. If they still can’t get you what you need, then you may have to make the difficult choice to choose yourself first.
Seeking Romance
The Five of Pentacles reversed also appears when it is time to toss out the beliefs that make you feel like garbage. This card tells you to take out the trash. No matter what happened in the past, today is a new day to start anew. It’s time to restore your confidence and self-esteem. Engage in fulfilling connections and activities that reaffirm you worth.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 21, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Three of Swords (Reversed)
“Stop self-inflicting wounds.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
As you might imagine the Three of Swords symbolizes the wounded heart. Everyone experiences betrayals, cruelty, unkindness, and even abuse to varying degrees. These traumatic events can feel like swords driven into the heart. Like any penetrating trauma, the shrapnel must be extracted for the injury to heal. Likewise, the swords pictured on this card here need to be drawn out and released from the heart so that it can heal. Sounds easy, right? Well it's not! This is because the only thing that can give you the power to release the sword from the wound is forgiveness...... What?! Forgive that @%^*@*+?! Never!
Are you unable to forgive individuals from the past who betrayed you? Do you still get angry and feel victimized? What emotions do you feel when you conjure the image of this person up? Hatred, revenge, rage, sadness?
The heart on the card is the victim of devastating injury. Three large swords symbolize wounds inflicted by three past traumatic events. The swords are weighing the heart down beneath grey clouds. Rain continuously pelts down on the sunken heart. And yet look at the proportions... The floating heart is quite large when compared to the swords. This symbolizes that the heart is stronger and more resilient than any wound to it. It also symbolizes that the wounds can weigh down a normally buoyant heart. This negative energy prevents the heart from rising above the clouds, to bask in joyful sunlight.
The Three of Swords reminds us that even though “another” may have put a metaphorical sword in your heart through a past betrayal, we perpetually betray ourselves by not letting go and releasing the resentment. So, if the only thing that will unburden the heart is forgiveness, then why is there such resistance to letting the swords go?
Swords represent power... Righteous indignation is seductive and can give a false sense of empowerment. The heart may want to hold onto the swords because it feels that somehow it now possesses more power. Although it gives an immediate illusion of being the moral victor (we are not the bad one after all), it also leaves us feeling hollow and empty. This sense of "power" is held onto for dear life, so that we aren't suckers caught off guard again! And yet, the heart remains heavy and isolated, and we miss the joy of the sunlight above the clouds.
Practicing forgiveness allows for releasing the negative energy within, so that you are not carrying it with you everywhere. Each day you refuse to forgive, you are deciding to continue carrying all that toxic poison within you for another day. There is an anonymous quote that says, "Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to drop dead!" Think about our world affairs, and how lack of forgiveness perpetuates war, hatred, and conflict.
Forgiveness does not mean "condoning" the reprehensible behavior of another. It doesn’t mean you need to call your abuser over for tea and pretend nothing happened. Forgiveness is less about them, and more about you. The wound happened, but it's not still happening today unless we choose to hurt ourselves with it. This means that you also must forgive yourself for holding onto this garbage for so long. Forgiveness gives you the power to let the painful past go, allowing you to move on in your life unencumbered and free.
The Three of Swords indicates that it’s time to let go of any painful people or things that are weighing your heart down. Forgiveness often doesn't come overnight! It takes time and continual affirmation before the swords are released. An opportunity for major healing is being presented to you now. Like the rising phoenix, let your heart ascend above the rain clouds, and into the realm of light.
When the Three of Swords appears reversed it calls your attention to any self-inflicted wounds that are being perpetuated through negative thinking. Holding onto negative expectations is a form of self-betrayal. The clouds that appeared in the sky are now on the base of the card. Clouds symbolize the element of air, and air represents your thoughts. The Three of Swords reversed reveals that what is makes you feel bad are thoughts that you may be holding onto. This includes thoughts projecting catastrophes into a future that hasn't even happened yet, or replaying the mental tape of a past trauma, and anticipating it will happen again. Your anxieties aren't harbingers of disasters to come. They are merely fears, and they rarely resemble the future that will actually come to pass.
When the Three of Swords reversed appears, it’s best to not borrow trouble. Negative projections into the future will cause you to miss out on being joyful in this moment. If you are anxious about what hasn't even happened yet, then you are harming yourself with your thinking. Catch yourself when you notice you are falling into this. Release harmful thoughts and know them for what they are: thoughts. Choose to focus your thinking on something that really interests you or brings you joy. Remember, the heart on this card is much larger, and stronger than any wound it's experienced. Your heart is stronger than your fears and wounds from the past. Love is always a viable answer when this card appears.
*The Three of Swords (Reversed) in a Love Reading
New Relationship
It may be time to do some “self-work” before attempting to form a deep connection with the other. Using another person to avoid what is uncomfortable within will not result in true love or happiness. Only you have the power to draw your own “swords” from the wounds in your heart. Confront the uncomfortable things that needs to be released gently and courageously.
Long Term Partnership
You (or your partner) are rationalizing away a relationship issue that has been causing inexcusable pain. It’s time to stop deflecting and communicate honestly about what is being experienced. This card can also signify that time has begun to heal a wound from a difficult past episode of your relationship.
Seeking Romance
The grey clouds that appear on this card in many decks can symbolize the use of old mental narratives that “convince” you that there is no hope. This is an illusion, as you can absolutely be happy again. In the Rider-Waite -Smith deck, one cloud is drawn unfinished. Your future is still unformed and provides unlimited opportunities to create a happy life.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
September 20, 2022
The Card of the Day: The Seven of Wands
“Taking the high road.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
The Seven of Wands signifies standing up for your integrity. When you let your personal honor code inform your decisions, you will find yourself on the high road. Taking this road isn’t always the easiest path, but it is the one that will make you shine. The Seven of Wands encourages you to think as an individual and avoid devolving into “group think.” This could mean not engaging in gossip to appease a wounded ego. It could also mean not going along with something that violates you sense of right and wrong, just to gain the acceptance of others.
Do you stand up for what is right, good, and the just, within you? Are you able to take the high road and not engage in slander and gossip? Can you rise above the lower human impulses for bickering, pettiness and the ego’s need to be “always right?”
The man on the card is defending his position on the high road. He is on the hilltop, above all the rest. You can’t see the other individuals attacking him on the card. You don’t need to. They are all the same. They are more interested in banding together to “fit in’” and targeting those that stand out. The man at the top of the hill is in the best position. He is “King of the Mountain,” and no one will dislodge him. If you look closely, the man is wearing two different kinds of shoes.[1] This shows that he is a nonconformist. Wearing two different shoes has made him a target by those who choose uniformity. This mob doesn’t know who this guy thinks he is! How dare he stand apart from them, thumbing his nose at their conformity. The group below feels good sharing a brain, but the man on the hilltop is true to his own integrity. This distinguishes him as an individual with personal strength and honor.
We might like to think that only teenagers self-consciously care about what others think. But in every human is an instinct and desire to be accepted and belong. Unfortunately, many adults engage in way too much negativity to gain the acceptance of their “tribe.” This manifests as gossip, group think, throwing others under the bus, racist/homophobic jokes, and rejection of people who appear “different.” We all like to believe we are good people, but chronically engaging in these sorts of behaviors can rob “good people” of their integrity and individualism.
Every now and then you hear someone who shines with integrity say, “I’m not going to engage in this conversation.” Or “I actually really like her, she quite nice if you get to know her.” It isn’t because people with integrity believe they are better. It is because they embrace compassion and know the sting of unfair rejection first hand. We admire these people because they have courage and take a stand and not engage in what is beneath their dignity.
*The Seven of Wands in a Love Reading:
New Relationship
The person you are asking about is hard to get close to. They may also be erecting barriers because they aren’t ready to connect. This person doesn’t follow a “type” and is likely very sensitive. If you want to get close to them, you may have to wait for them to come to you.
Long Term Partnership
The Seven of Wands reversed can also represent a relationship conflict that is at an impasse. Both partners are dug into their position. You may need to ask yourself if your viewpoint is aligned with your values or if you are just being stubborn. If your core values aren’t being violated, then don’t sweat the small stuff and resolve the conflict.
Seeking Romance
The Seven of Wands reversed could suggest that you are currently difficult to get close to. Allow yourself to be more open to others, especially if you desire a connection. If a relationship is what you desire most, you must lower any unnecessary defenses and take a risk.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
[1] Johannes Fiebig and Evelin Burger, The Ultimate Guide to the Rider Waite Tarot (Woodbury, MN: Llewellyn Publications., 2016), 90.
September 17, 2022
The King of Wands (Reversed)
“Believe in yourself.”
Order my full book on Amazon!
The King of Wands is the wise counselor of the tarot. He came up the “hard way,” and has survived many trials by fire. Because of his experiences, he speaks with gravity and wisdom. The King of Wands represents the part of you that is wise and competent. He teaches you to trust in yourself. You haven’t let everything fall apart up until this point, so why panic and assume that suddenly you’ll drop the ball now. The King reminds you, that if you don’t trust in your own competency and abilities, you are betraying the very part of yourself that helped you survive. This part of you deserves some respect!
Do you have trouble trusting yourself, no matter how well you do your job, or run your affairs? Are you someone that came up the hard way, and has some uneasiness about not having some of the perceived "advantages" of people you think are better off? Have you proved to yourself time after time, that you are competent, and even after all this time still don’t believe it?
The King of Wands doesn’t “command” people to respect him. Others need only to look at him and do. Although he carries himself with dignity, and a regal bearing, this king was not born “royal.” He was a soldier and came up through the ranks the hard way. He earned the respect of his men by winning battles and saving his kingdom on more than one occasion. His competency at leading naturally caused others to follow. When the former king died without an heir, the people named this proven warrior "the King of Wands."
As a King, the throne he is seated on is naturally emblazoned with lions. However, the King carries another powerful emblem that speaks to his familial roots... the “lowly” lizard, seated right next to him.
Lizards are survivors. They can live in the hottest climates by moderating their body temperature. They can literally "take the heat." This symbol reminded this king's "lowborn" ancestors for generations, to not allow emotions to get “too hot,” or “too cold.” This quality always helped the king, when assessing himself and others.
The "noble" soldiers in the army used to laugh at the lizard on this soldier-king’s banner. To the upper echelons, lizards were “dirty,” or even worse “evil.” Lizards were definitely not “royal.” For many years as a young man, the king felt shame about the lizard being on his family’s crest. Like the lizard, it meant that he too was "low-born." However, now the king places the lizard alongside the royal lion emblem with pride. The king has gained maturity and wisdom. He now understands that coming up as a lizard gave him more valuable gifts that he wouldn't have gained, had he been born into the “lion’s club.”
Today it’s time to acknowledge that like the King, you are competent. You “belong” and deserve a seat at table in front of you. You've worked hard to get here. Don’t look at others and assume they are "better" because they have more money, a greater position, better schooling, more "this" or more "that." You don’t know their real life or private struggles! Everyone has difficult things they are working on...even the most well to do. No one gets a “free pass” in this life. Like the King, you will also have to battle the baggage in your consciousness that causes you to doubt yourself and your place in this world. This inner saboteur will tell you to retreat, because you aren't as good as someone else. Tell that malicious voice to take a hike! It's disrespecting your inner lizard.
In truth, there is no practical way to compare lizards and lions. This is a false equivalency. Each animal brings its own gifts. However, just because the lizard's gifts are not as immediately apparent, does not mean that it should be underestimated or dismissed.
Respect your inner lizard today. It may not be as glamorous as the lions you see on the shields of others, but it is the reason you've survived, and it deserves to be honored.
When the King of Wands appears reversed, he arrives at a time when you may be starting to doubt your competency, gifts and abilities. This usually occurs when your focus is directed outwardly and the links to your authentic, inner-self feel diminished. Sometimes this card is just a reminder to stop comparing yourself to the achievements of others. Remember the false equivalency of comparing lions to lizards.
New opportunities are arriving that require you to tap into your deepest strength. This can be scary. Fear of new experiences can lead to doubt in your ability to succeed. If you are beginning to doubt your talents, abilities, or strengths remind yourself of your total journey up until this point. Remember all the times you pushed past former barriers and succeeded. Reach deep within for that implacable belief in yourself. Reacquaint yourself with the strongest version of yourself that you can remember from the past. That person is still you, no matter how far your experiences have taken you away from that time and place in your life. The King of Wands reversed asks you to truly remember who you are.
The truth is you do have the ability to succeed in whatever situation is presenting itself. Be open to personal growth and transformation now. Do not let your fears undermine your sense of self-confidence. The King of Wands is a tough character, upright or reversed. He is a survivor that always finds a way to succeed. In truth, he is a symbol for the same qualities which reside within you. Bolster your self-confidence by remembering the version of you that is competent, strong, and empowered to act. The King of Wands encourages you to be more assertive and less passive.
Be confident and believe in your competency. You’ve got this!
*King of Wands (Reversed) in a Love Reading
New Relationship
The King of Wands reversed can represent a partner with a sensitive sense of pride. He (or she) must feel recognized and appreciated before opening up. This person dislikes feeling contradicted in front of others. Reputation matters to him. He does not respond well if his methods are questioned. He desires respect above all else.
Long Term Partnership
This card can represent a relationship that has survived many trials by fire. Both partners have a shared experience of suffering that has actually strengthened their mutual respect for one another. Sometimes this card will appear when Express your talents, warmth, optimism, and playfulness.
Seeking Romance
This card can represent a time where you are beginning to doubt what you know to be true or are second-guessing your own perception. You may need to take a break from what is triggering you to see the situation more clearly. When your emotions have simmered you will know just what to do.
Preorder “Tarot in Love” on Amazon!
*This excerpt is a sneak peek at my upcoming book “Tarot in Love: Consulting the Cards in Matters of the Heart” from Llewellyn Books and available for preorder!
Follow Elliot Oracle on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube for weekly community readings!
Elliot Adam's Blog
- Elliot Adam's profile
- 9 followers
