UNICORN TAROT
Illustrated by
Liz Hilton
Written by
Suzanne Star
U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC.
Publishers
Stamford, CT 06902 USA
UNICORN TAROT
Illustrated by
Liz Hilton
Written by
Suzanne Star
Published by
U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC.
179 Ludlow Street
Stamford, CT 06902 USA
ISBN 0-88079-142-X
Copyright © 1995 U.S. GAMES SYSTEMS, INC.
All rights reserved. The illustrations, cover design,
and contents are protected by copyright. No part of
this booklet may be reproduced in any form without
permission in writing from the publisher, except by a
reviewer who wishes to quote brief passages in
connection with a review written for inclusion in a
magazine or newspaper.
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3
Booklet printed in the USA
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INTRODUCTION
The unicorn is a beautiful, enchanting beast. It is
shaped like a fine, slender horse with a single spiralled
horn emerging from the center of its forehead. This
horn is said to be full of magical properties. As
recently as the 19th century, traveling medicine men
would claim to be in possession of powdered Unicorn
horn, the remedy for many otherwise incurable
illnesses. The unicorn stems back much further than
that; the earliest mention of the magnificent beast is in
the Holy Bible.
The complete tarot deck consists of seventy-eight
cards that are divided into two sections: 22 Major
Arcana and 56 Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana
represent the cycle of physical and spiritual forces that
we encounter on our journeys through life, birth,
strength, love, religion, death, and re-birth.
The Minor Arcana are believed to be the
forerunner to the contemporary deck of playing cards,
consisting of four suits: Swords - Spades; Rods Clubs; Cups - Hearts; and Pentacles - Diamonds. Each
of the four suits contains four court cards and ten pip
cards numbered one (ace) through ten. The four court
cards in each suit are named King, Queen, Knight and
Page. The Minor Arcana cards generally represent
occupations, social positions, and status.
THE AUTHOR
Suzanne Star is a natural psychic. She was born
September 17, 1962 in Southport, England. She
attracted nationwide publicity when she became the
first person to qualify for a government grant to set up
business as a professional clairvoyant; however, this
was debated by the House of Commons in London,
and it was decided that no further grants should be
awarded to anyone else wishing to set up business as a
psychic. In 1991, BBC-TV made a film about
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Suzanne, and in 1993-4 she had a regular spot on BBC
Radio as the “Psychic Agony Aunt.” Suzanne’s
astrological predictions are regularly published in
newspapers throughout the UK.
THE ARTIST
Liz Hilton was born in Manchester, England. Her
mother was an artist, and always encouraged Liz to
draw. Art is the only occupation Liz ever wanted to
pursue; at 18 she won a scholarship to an Art college.
However, she found school to be too design-oriented.
She left to pursue fantasy art, such as fairies, unicorns,
and mystical beasts.
THE MAJOR ARCANA
0 THE FOOL—The Fool is naive and ready to take
chances without thinking of the consequences. He
dances along with his head in the clouds, not realizing
that he is on the edge of a cliff. No one knows if he will
fall, or turn in time to avoid falling. He lives for the
moment. The unicorn is spiritual and wise; he sees the
dangers that may lie ahead. He rears to catch The
Fool’s attention, but will The Fool listen to the
warning? Or will he rush ahead into what could be
great trouble or strife? Remember the saying, “Fools
rush in where Angels fear to tread.” Divinatory
Meaning: When The Fool appears in the spread, it is
likely that the questioner is quite enthusiastic about a
situation; however, he may be in danger of jumping in
feet first. He only thinks about the consequences
afterwards, when it’s too late! There is a strong
tendency that the Inquirer will let his emotions rule his
head. Reversed Meaning: He is not only excitable,
but is likely to be very foolish about the situation
appertaining to the question in hand. You must advise
extreme caution, and to avoid taking risks of all kinds,
as your client cannot trust his own feelings right now
and could be making a big mistake.
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I THE MAGICIAN—The Magician is depicted
juggling his tools. Each tool represents the four
elements: Cups for water and emotions; Pentacles for
the earth, practicality, and earthly wealth such as gold;
Swords for the air element, representing intelligence
and strength. To complete the full set, The Magician
holds his powerful unicorn horn rod, representing fire,
in his left hand. This is his magical wand. The unicorn
on the right side of The Magician is a wise, mature
stallion. He appears to be watching The Magician’s
every move. Although this is a very clever and quickthinking man, one can never be sure what tricks he
may have hidden up his long, flowing sleeves. This
man is a saw unto himself; he is very powerful and
extremely clever, but sometimes too cunning for his
own good. Divinatory Meaning: Positive, quickthinking, spiritually inspiring. Problems will be
resolved as if by magic. Harness the positive energy.
Flexibility. Self-control. Reversed Meaning: Caution
is needed now, for in real life the Magnus could show
himself to be a confidence trickster.
II THE HIGH PRIESTESS—The High Priestess is
pure and virtuous with her long, flowing, virginal
gown. She stands with her magic glowing Rod in her
left hand. Gently trotting beside The High Priestess,
the unicorn (who is attracted by her beauty) follows
and protects her from any danger with his spiritual
strength. This feminine goddess figure possesses great
‘psychic powers’ and depth of insight. Thus she has the
ability to perform miracles. She may appear cool and
aloof with hidden depths of wisdom, but she is a truly
secretive beauty with hidden powers. She appears in
real life as a business woman, maybe a counselor or
psychic advisor. She is a listener with the spiritual gift
to be able give advice regarding any problems.
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Divinatory Meaning: A strong-minded, self-sufficient
woman; if not mature in years, then mature in mind.
Like the true goddess that she is, she is full of sexual
personal magnetism; yet she remains untouchable to
most wisdom and mystery. Reversed Meaning: The
High Priestess may be misusing her powers of
persuasion to manipulate people into doing what she
wants; sooner or later she will be found out, and no
good will come of it.
III THE EMPRESS—The Empress symbolizes Mother
Nature, the fruitful goddess of fertility. She sits on her
throne clothed in a long, red gown. She has a voluptuous
figure and the glow of motherhood. At her feet is a petite
baby unicorn. This is the Earth Mother, nature-loving,
female. She represents the questioner’s relationship
with his mother, wife, or homemaker. The female in our
client’s life has a great bearing on the situation and may
be trying to advise, guide, or over-protect the questioner.
The Empress is the symbol of growth and fruitful
outcome. She can also represent the harvest time and the
ability to reap what you’ve sown. Divinatory Meaning:
When The Empress appears in the card spread, it
symbolizes fertility and growth, as well as pleasure and
comfort. Reversed Meaning: Infertility, miscarriage. It
could be an indication that the questioner is being overindulgent and may be spending too much money,
becoming wasteful. On the other hand, if the questioner
is a man, this placing indicates he has an over-possessive
wife or mother who may stifle his progress if he doesn’t
get the situation in hand.
IV THE EMPEROR—In his right hand, The Emperor
holds the magical and powerful unicorn horn as his
Rod. A unicorn foal is at his feet, signifying that he is
the great protector and master of all he serves. He sits
on his throne dressed in his royal red gown. He is ready
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to advise as father figure, as he is a fair arbitrator of
law and order. Although he may be married to The
Empress, there is an air of aloofness around him. In
real life he could be the sort of person who becomes
wrapped up in his work or career. Divinatory
Meaning: An authoritative figure. Mature. Male.
Stability and control. Husband. Father. Strength.
Reverse Meaning: Domineering, even tyrannical.
Power hungry (misusing his or her authority) to the
extent of hurting others. This will only serve to cause
trouble for the Inquirer when someone tells you what
they think of you.
V THE HIEROPHANT—The Hierophant is a spiritual
ruler or God-like figure. This is a very wise, altruistic
type of person. The young unicorn in the picture is
about to rise to his feet and do as his master
commands. Learn by your experiences; the path of life
is a spiritual journey and we learn as we go along.
Divinatory Meaning: Widen your breadth of vision.
Make up your own mind about which path you should
take. Sometime it helps to see other’s points of view
and learn by their mistakes. Reversed Meaning:
Feeling discontented with the way things are at this
time. It is time to break out of your rut and find
something new to inspire you.
VI THE LOVERS—Two lovers caress each other,
succumbing to their strong urges to be as one. They are
in a spiritual forest. Above them hovers a beautiful
winged unicorn whose magical powers (unknown to
the couple) have brought them together, as is God’s
will. However, lurking on a branch in the tree is a
serpent, an untrustworthy evil temper who likes to
indulge in wrongdoings and causes disaster wherever
he goes. The unicorn is protecting them in this card,
representing true spirituality. Divinatory Meaning: A
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relationship will develop. The potential is for the two
to become ‘soul mates’ or even ‘reincarnated lovers.’
Marriage. Freedom of emotion. Reverse Meaning:
Separation or even divorce, destructive relationship,
maybe due to jealousy or possessiveness. The unicorn
loses his power of protection when reversed, and rather
than a spiritual love, the serpent indicates that this is
more of a lustful, sexual attraction and therefore is
doomed to fail.
VII THE CHARIOT—Two unicorns appear to be
pulling in different directions, representing one’s mind
pulling one way, while emotions are pulling the other
way. Both need to be harnessed together in order for
peace and tranquility to reign. The warrior is holding
her flag erect to imply victory. She is determined to
forge ahead with whatever it takes in order to be
triumphant. She represents a self-sufficient go-getter
who is highly motivated and doesn’t need help to
achieve what she wants. Divinatory Meaning: Full
steam ahead into a project that is being contemplated.
Strength and ability to succeed even though the path
ahead may seem a little bumpy at times. A decision
may need to be made that will alter the course of the
questioner’s life. Difficulties resolved. Victory.
Reverse Meaning: Failure. The questioner may have
little regard for rules and regulations or the law of the
land. Through his power-hungry quest for
achievement, he may appear ruthless, bringing on his
own downfall. If related to travel, it may mean
breakdown or trouble with a vehicle causing delay in
journey.
VIII STRENGTH—A strong warrior sits astride a
beautiful and highly spirited unicorn mare. She is
rearing up and ready for action. There is a feeling of
eloquence. The unicorn knows her inner strength and
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has no need to prove herself. Although the unicorn is
one of the most placid spiritual beasts, there is no
doubt that her advantage above all other beasts is her
long powerful horn in the center of her forehead. Any
two-horned animal would be no match for the
supernatural unicorn. Divinatory Meaning: Strength,
spiritual protection of the unicorn, personal
magnetism. Forge ahead to achieve victory, energy,
good health. ‘Strong silent type’ of person, who is
steadfast and loyal. Reverse Meaning: A weakening
of strength is indicated by the surrounding cards;
mentally, through stress, or physically, bringing a
warning of ill health. Negative energies could turn to
aggressiveness.
IX THE HERMIT—This card portrays The Hermit as
a wise old man, resembling a monk. He is standing on
the top of the highest spiritual path, winds of time
swirling like mist around his magical Rod. He holds
the lamp of spiritual enlightenment to guide his way.
By his side stands an unfettered unicorn equally as
wise, a spiritual companion to The Hermit, bringing
with him his own inner reflection. The wondrous beast
does not need to speak, for the wise old Hermit knows
everything. Divinatory Meaning: When the
spiritually unfettered unicorn comes to the Inquirer
with The Hermit card, it is an indication of time for
reflection. This may come as a period of study and
learning, in order to better oneself, improving one’s
quality of life. Meditate, enroll in a course, or seek
advice and direction from a learned source. Reversed
Meaning: Feeling alone. You versus the world.
Failure. Immaturity.
X WHEEL OF FORTUNE—The Wheel of Fortune
depicts a dark, mysterious woman crouched down with
a large wheel in her hands. She looks as though she is
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about to spin it on the ground like a coin, to see if it
will come up heads or tails (as gamblers do when
tossing a coin for heads or tails). Behind the woman
stands the golden spires of a castle. This can indicate
the good fortune and prosperity that The Wheel of
Fortune may bring. On the other hand, the blood red
rose in the foreground is a picture of beauty; but if you
are tempted to pick it, be warned: the poisonous thorns
on the stem will harm you. The spiritual unicorn sits in
excited anticipation by The Wheel. This magical beast
seems to have a smile on his face as if he knows the
outcome already. Therefore, trust in the unicorn and be
guided by fate. Divinatory Meaning: There is no such
thing as a coincidence in the eyes of the unicorn.
Everything that happens in life happens for a reason.
However, sometimes we are not aware of what may be
in store for us. Expect the unexpected, or a sudden
change. Good fortune. Reversed Meaning: Bad
timing can lead to disastrous consequences; take heed!
A fortune may be lost, causing frustrations, set backs,
and delays. Bad luck.
XI JUSTICE—The Justice card depicts balance and
harmony, as a strong-minded goddess figure stands in
between two beautiful, highly spiritual unicorn pillars,
symbolizing power, strength and unity. In one hand,
the goddess holds the scales of Justice, law, and order.
In the other hand, she holds the spiritual sword of
strength and fairness, indicating that all things are
taken into consideration. Justice will overcome, and
the right solution will be found. The sword and scales
portrayed here indicate physical justice, while the pair
of unicorn pillars stand for spiritual, or even karmic
justice, reminding us to do unto others as we would
have them do unto us. Divinatory Meaning: Dealings
with authority figures, members of council or legal
matters pending. The outcome will be successful and
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fair. Equity. Virtue. Honor. Just rewards. Reversed
Meaning: Injustice, perhaps even prejudice. Proceed
with extreme caution, or the result may be your own
undoing. Bias. False accusations.
XII THE HANGED MAN—Before he can proceed,
The Hanged Man must experience self-sacrifice. For
now, the stone effigies of the spiritual unicorn have
risen up from the ground, holding him fast to make
him stop and think. “I am at a crossroads in my life
now!” he says, “I cannot go back, I can only go
forward!” He is right, but he needs to think carefully
because he is in a stand-still period, whether he wants
it or not. Divinatory Meaning: Bide time. Change.
“Out with the old, in with the new.” Sacrifice.
Readjustment. Reversed Meaning: When The
Hanged Man appears reversed in a spread, the Inquirer
is ready to take the unicorn by the horn. He has been
through his ‘lost soul’ period, due to circumstances
beyond his control, and is now ready to take some
positive action.
XIII DEATH—Death is depicted by the Grim Reaper,
standing in barren, desolate lands. No sun shines, no
birds sing. The dried ground is parched and cracked.
All one can see remaining is the skeleton of the
spiritual unicorn, faithful and true even beyond death
itself. It is said that the only way to kill a unicorn is to
chop off his magical horn, for without it he has no
strength nor will to survive. Therefore, the picture
denotes the beginning of spiritual recreation of the
unicorn. Divinatory Meaning: The end of a phase in
life and the start of a fresh, although not necessarily the
death of a person. Transformation. Loss. Failure.
Reversed Meaning: Decaying situation. Stagnation.
Near death experience.
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XIV TEMPERANCE—High in the spiritual retreat of
the mountains the Angel of Temperance stands,
carefully pouring the waters of life from one chalice into
another. She cannot afford to spill any, as the waters of
life represent the emotions and life force of mortals, so
she takes great care. A unicorn foal lays in front of her,
partially emulating the angels’ qualities of hidden
energies and spiritual strength. Divinatory Meaning:
Do nothing at this time. Moderation. Good omen.
Everything comes to those who wait. Patience is a
virtue. Reversed Meaning: Impatience, impulsiveness
and over-reaction. Frustrations.
XV THE DEVIL—The Devil card portrays a young
girl and unicorn in shameful submission to the lustful
evil powers of the devil. Crouching down on a rock,
the unicorn and the girl seem powerless to do anything
about their imprisonment. They are suspended in noman’s land, appearing to have nowhere to run. The
Devil himself is a menacing-looking beast, part
human, part animal, with long black claws. It is
possible that the girl could have escaped this terrible
ordeal if she had not succumbed to her basic animal
instincts. She should have listened to the higher
spiritual guidance of the unicorn, who has remained by
her side in her time of woe, ever faithful. Divinatory
Meaning: Shake up. Troubles. Wallowing in self-pity.
Disruptive influences leading to loss, if great care is
not taken. Reversed Meaning: The Inquirer is better
able to conquer any weaknesses, even drinking,
smoking, gambling, or drug abuse. Light is at the end
of the tunnel now, as the spiritual unicorn gathers the
strength to bring you out of this stagnation period.
XVI THE TOWER—The Tower card depicts a large
stone monument of a unicorn tower. Explosions
coming from the unicorn’s horn create tumbling
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rubble and shaky foundations. From this picture we
see that two people have lost their footing, due to the
disruption. One man is already lying motionless on the
ground as if dead. The other person is falling from the
tower to his fate. Divinatory Meaning: Shake up.
Disruptive influences. Misunderstandings. Severing
ties. Bankruptcy. Downfall. Reversed Meaning:
Stuck in a rut. Unhappy situation. Unable to make a
change.
XVII THE STAR—The Star card depicts a beautiful,
virtuous young woman sky clad, kneeling down by the
deepest blue healing waters. At one time, this river was
not safe for drinking, but the young unicorn who is
pure body and soul cleanses the water with his magical
horn. The power of the unicorn’s horn is so strong that
not only does he cleanse and bless the water, he also
has the spiritual ability of purification and turns the
water into healing waters full of healing properties.
The Lady of the Star pours water into the river from
her pitcher. She looks dreamily into the glistening
water, as if she were wishing for her dreams to come
true. Behind her shines a star so bright that it
illuminates the land, granting wishes for the pure of
heart. This is a most spiritual card, portraying the
higher spiritual side of ourselves. Divinatory
Meaning: Optimistic outlook. Dreams become reality.
Good fortune; perhaps windfall. Reversed Meaning:
The implications are rather negative. Hopes are dead.
Dreams have not come true. Disappointed or
disillusioned.
XVIII THE MOON—A minstrel in the picture is
gently strumming his mandolin in an attempt to woo
the woman who stands with her hand on her hip,
looking quite unsettled. She doesn’t feel as though she
is in complete control of the situation. She is
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compelled by the spiritual unicorn and the full moon,
and drawn by the soothing music. However, she is
prone to mood swings, symbolizing woman’s
emotions being turned upside down. On the floor, a
crayfish has crawled out of his dark pool to see what is
going on; this dark, mysterious creature represents our
own hidden suspicions or insecurities, the things that
can sometimes play on our minds. The unicorn is
rearing up at the full moon, indicating spiritual
awareness and a completion to be drawn into an
experience that could be spiritually enlightening.
Divinatory Meaning: Subconscious feelings
becoming confused by other emotional disturbances.
Insecurity. False friends. Slander. Disillusionment.
Reversed Meaning: There could be an indication of
drug abuse or alcoholism, in an attempt to escape.
Untrustworthy person.
XIX THE SUN—The Sun card signifies joy and
happiness. In this card, two young people are
contentedly caressing each other. Meanwhile, the
beautiful white unicorn, a symbol of purity and
spirituality, stands proudly on the hilltop looking at the
bright sunshine, representing fulfillment and success.
The Fool has traveled far and experienced many
things; he has become wise, and consequently reaches
for inner fulfillment and self-realization. The Fool has
accomplished what he set out to do; he has attained his
goal. The spiritual unicorn reminds us of our spiritual
selves and the essence of life. Divinatory Meaning:
Success and fulfillment. Attainment of goals. Health,
wealth, and happiness. Reversed Meaning: Lack of
strength. Illness. Loneliness. Broken engagement.
Canceled plans.
XX JUDGMENT—The High Priestess is in judgment
as she rises up from the ground with her arms
outstretched as if to give praise to the powers that be.
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She possesses great depths of insight and knowledge of
the supernatural, with the abilities to perform miracles
bringing about joyful resurrection. At each side, she has
conjured up the unicorns who are attracted by her virtue.
They rear up on their hind legs as if to salute her and
obey her every command, for they are her servants of
the light. And so The Fool has almost come to the end
of his journey. He has accomplished his task of the
lessons of the Karma, and is well-balanced now, with a
good sense of judgment. He has to face making a
decision between reincarnation or moving up to a higher
plane; the choice is his reward. He has awakened to his
higher self, as we all must learn to do, given time.
Divinatory Meaning: Judgment being made in one’s
favor. Repent and forgive. Rebirth. Improvement.
Reversed Meaning: Poor judgment. Disappointment.
Theft. Divorce. Procrastination.
XXI THE WORLD—The spiritual woman dances with
the unicorn. She holds the world in her hand. We have
now come full circle, and The Fool has chosen to begin
his journey on a higher path; as is the beginning so is
the end. Everything in life must come full circle: birth,
life, death, rebirth. The woman in this picture has
learned to listen to the inner voice of the unicorn and
dances to a distant tune. Together, they can rise above
the material plane and are able to see everything in
clearer
perspective.
Divinatory
Meaning:
Completion. Fulfillment. Synthesis. Held in high
esteem by others. Success. Reversed Meaning:
Failure to complete what one has begun.
Disappointment. Superficial vision.
THE MINOR ARCANA
The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards split into four
suits represented by Cups, Rods, Swords, and
Pentacles, much like the Hearts, Clubs, Spades, and
Diamonds found in playing cards.
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THE SUIT OF CUPS
ACE OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: New love.
Meeting a soul mate. Emotional reason to celebrate.
When card is near Empress, it may signify a birth.
Reversed Meaning: Emotions are ruling head. Rushing
headlong into a new situation. Delay.
TWO OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Loved one has
strong influence over the Inquirer. Romantic or
business partnership. Heed sound advice from friends
or family. Reversed Meaning: Minor dispute or lovers'
tiff. Minor or temporary setback in a romantic
relationship. Unreciprocated love.
THREE OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Celebration.
Party. Wedding. Reversed Meaning: Overindulgence.
Frivolity. Promiscuity.
FOUR
OF
CUPS
Divinatory
Meaning:
Disappointment. Unrecognized opportunity. Reversed
Motivation. Ability to work out
disappointing relationships or work situations.
FIVE OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Hope for the
future. Learn valuable lesson from past experiences.
Reversed Meaning: Troubles are ending. Acceptance.
Spiritual growth.
SIX OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Children take a
prominent role. Old friend from the past will return.
Reunion. Reversed Meaning: Living in the past. Leave
behind past loves and experiences and move toward
the future.
SEVEN OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Confusion.
Patience. Seek creative outlets. Reversed Meaning:
Order. Understanding. Priorities in perspective. Clear
judgment.
EIGHT OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Change of
heart. Loneliness. Good things must come to an end.
Meaning:
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Do not become disillusioned. Reversed Meaning:
Unable to make a firm commitment due to insecurities.
Fear of becoming too close. Must learn to trust again
and strive to achieve goals and recognition.
NINE OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Fulfillment of
wishes. Happiness may be temporary. Reversed
Meaning: Delay in attaining goals. Need to be more
realistic in desires.
TEN OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Harmony.
Spiritual love. Close friends. Ability to give and
receive love. Happy families. Support. Reversed
Meaning: Misunderstanding. Quarrels. Breakdown of
communication. Incompatibility.
PAGE OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Emotional
happiness. Invitation. If surrounded by a positive card,
it may mean a celebration or marriage. If surrounded
by a negative card, it may be indicative of a separation.
Reversed Meaning: Delays in communication.
Advisable to spend more time away from friends and
colleagues.
KNIGHT OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Signifies a
gallant man. Marriage or proposal of an emotional
nature. Reversed Meaning: Charming man who breaks
hearts easily.
QUEEN OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Loving and
giving woman. Comfort. Confidante. Feminine
intuition or psychic abilities. Reversed Meaning:
Emotions rule head. Need to gain clear perspective.
Need to stop living according to other people’s desires,
and stop allowing others to take advantage.
KING OF CUPS Divinatory Meaning: Mature,
trustworthy man. Father figure. Sensitive to emotions.
Confidante. Reversed Meaning: Possessiveness.
Jealousy. Need to be more secure and positive about
future. Everything in moderation.
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THE SUIT OF SWORDS
ACE OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Victory over
problems. End of a difficult phase. Start of a new phase
or change of life. Reversed Meaning: Frustrations and
setbacks. Need to be patient. Answer to a question is
“no.”
TWO OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Lack of
clear perspective. Problems with health or
relationships. Reversed Meaning: Differences will be
resolved. Harmony restored. Learn to give and take.
THREE OF SWORDS
Divinatory Meaning:
Heartache. Misery. End of relationship. Reversed
Meaning: Recovery from illness or emotional
heartache.
FOUR OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Strong
need for rest. Reversed Meaning: Recuperation and
recovery.
FIVE OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Threat of
jealousy and betrayal. Trouble with an old enemy.
Reversed Meaning: Victory over personal problems,
slander or jealousy.
SIX OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Stress and
pressure. Optimistic outlook. Reversed Meaning:
Impaired judgment and logic. Potential to repeat past
mistakes.
SEVEN OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Tricky
situation requiring great care. Treachery and deceit.
Reversed Meaning: Return of something lost or taken.
Resolution of conflicts.
EIGHT OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Trouble in
health, wealth, or emotional happiness. Tendency to
make matters worse than they are. Reversed Meaning:
Inquirer is his or her own worst enemy. Use strength to
break out of a rut.
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NINE OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Worries and
fears are being blown out of proportion. Need to worry
less. Reversed Meaning: Strength to rise above
problems. Emotional recovery.
TEN OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Negative
situation has occurred. Accept what cannot be
changed. Worst is over. Reversed Meaning: Loss or
setback is over.
PAGE OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Young,
witty, creative person. Need for constructive criticism.
Reversed Meaning: Quick to criticize. May lead to
discord, offense, or lack of cooperation from
other parties.
KNIGHT OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Gallant,
dark man. Opinionated and headstrong. Do not hesitate
to stand up and speak out for oneself. Reversed
Meaning: Sharp words. Aggression. Threat of violence.
QUEEN OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Strongminded and self-sufficient woman, perhaps a widow.
Headstrong and efficient person. Source of inspiration.
Reversed Meaning: Bitter woman. Lack of trust or
emotional peace.
KING OF SWORDS Divinatory Meaning: Wise,
mature, professional man. Intellectual genius. Self
improvement. Reversed Meaning: Power-hungry.
Morally bankrupt. Selfish, manipulative person.
THE SUIT OF RODS
ACE OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: New beginnings.
Fresh ideas. Opportunity to branch out. Birth.
Reversed Meaning: Setbacks and delays. Waste. Need
to reconsider plans and ventures.
TWO OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Lessons
learned. Knowledge gained. Time for change.
Reversed Meaning: Strong differences of opinion.
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THREE
OF
RODS
Divinatory
Meaning:
SEVEN
OF
RODS
Divinatory
Meaning:
Reassessment of associations. Decide what is best or
what is holding one back. Reversed Meaning:
Postponement. Creative block. Delay or cancellation
of plans or travel arrangements.
FOUR OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Marriage.
Love. Partnerships. Reversed Meaning: Joy.
Happiness. Different points of view.
FIVE OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Differences of
opinion. Squabbles over trivial matters. Hostile
environment. Reversed Meaning: Relief. Calm after a
conflict.
SIX OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Victory over
personal problems. New venture or change of
direction. Financial or emotional success. Reversed
Meaning: Defeat. Shattered hopes. Loss.
Perseverance. Victory. Survival. Reversed Meaning:
Struggle. Battle weariness. Need to believe in oneself.
EIGHT OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Message or
news. Opportunity to expand or grow. Reversed
Meaning: Miscommunication. Inability to judge or to
make decisions.
NINE OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Patience. Need to
remain calm. Insecurity. Ostracism. Reversed Meaning:
Risk of rushing headlong into a project or situation.
Impetuosity. Need to think twice before acting.
TEN OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Danger of taking on
more than one can handle. Reversed Meaning: Rid oneself
of obligations and responsibilities. Opportunity to relax.
THE PAGE OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Young,
enthusiastic person. Strong will. Determination.
Success. Reversed Meaning: Opinionated. Headstrong.
Full of demands.
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THE KNIGHT OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Strong
mindedness. Nonconformist. Movement and travel.
Reversed Meaning: Delays. Need for patience. Aggression.
THE QUEEN OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Strongminded, self-sufficient professional woman. Natural
leader. Need to adopt a dynamic and assertive
approach. Reversed Meaning: Energy is spread thin.
Fiery temper.
THE KING OF RODS Divinatory Meaning: Clever,
self-made man. Talkativeness. Determination.
Reversed Meaning: Lack of patience. Volatile temper.
Inability to see others’ point of view.
THE SUIT OF PENTACLES
ACE OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Financial
opportunity or windfall. Business advancement.
Reversed Meaning: Frustration in a new venture. Loss
of money.
TWO OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Extra
responsibility. Decision needs to be made. Reversed
Meaning: Lessening of work or responsibilities.
Breaking free from a partnership.
THREE OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
FOUR OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
FIVE OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
SIX OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
Advancement in career. Success. Reversed Meaning:
Boredom with work situation. Need for change.
Caution with money. Reversed Meaning: Stinginess.
Overprotectiveness of possessions and emotions.
Financial struggle or frustration. Possible psychosomatic or genuine illness. Reversed Meaning:
Prosperity. Security. Return to work.
Entitlement to financial assistance. Reversed Meaning:
Generosity with money, often to a fault.
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SEVEN OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
NINE OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
Perseverance in the face of adversity. Overcoming
frustration related to work. Reversed Meaning:
Unexpected expenses. Need to be conscious of
security, and check all monetary transactions.
EIGHT OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Skills
need to be used to their best advantage. Attain goals
that are related to your talents. Reversed Meaning:
Loss of interest in work. Need to find new interests or
occupations.
Fondness for luxury and the comforts of home.
Financial and emotional security. Reversed Meaning:
Financial loss. Danger in property matters.
TEN OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Financial
security. Strong family bond. Peace and harmony at
home. Reversed Meaning: Trouble with property or
inheritance.
PAGE OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Good
news. Attainment of goals. Positive academic results.
Good financial news. Reversed Meaning: Insecurity.
Lack of self-confidence. Disappointing financial news.
KNIGHT OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
Down-to-earth man. Security. Consciousness. Offering
or proposal. Reversed Meaning: Need to work less.
QUEEN OF PENTACLES Divinatory Meaning: Wise,
trustworthy woman. Counselor. Reversed Meaning:
Materialism. Insecurity. Social climber.
KING OF PENTACLES
Divinatory Meaning:
Hardworking, professional man. Financial advisor.
Need to be less serious and more lighthearted.
Reversed Meaning: Be wary of schemes to make
money quickly. Stubbornness. Possessiveness.
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READING THE CARDS
THE CELTIC CROSS
1. When the Inquirer has shuffled the cards well, ask
him to split the full deck in half with his left hand.
2. Place the bottom half of the split deck on the top.
3. Ask the Inquirer to pick ten cards from anywhere in
the deck, and place them face down in a pile on the
table.
4. Starting with the bottom card, begin placing the
cards on the table in the order shown below.
10
3
9
6
2
1
4
8
5
7
POSITIONS AND THEIR MEANINGS
1. The first card represents the Inquirer, and is placed
in the center of the table.
2. The second card represents the situation crossing
the Inquirer. In other words, this card should give
you an indication as to what is worrying the
Inquirer at the time of the reading.
3. The third card indicates the foundation of the
question. Placed directly below the first two cards, it
indicates whether the Inquirer is treading on shaky
foundations or is secure in stable surroundings.
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4. The fourth card indicates past influences that may
still be affecting, or even be the cause, of the
Inquirer’s present situation. This card is placed to
the left of cards one and two.
5. The fifth card is what crowns the Inquirer. This card
is placed directly above the first and second cards,
indicating how the Inquirer appears to the outside
world.
6. The sixth card is placed to the right of the first and
second cards. This card represents near future
trends, and possible happenings yet to come that
could have a bearing on this situation.
7. The seventh card is placed lower down, to the right
hand side of the first cards. It begins the line of
cards that will ascend straight up in a row on this
side. The card itself portrays the subconscious
feelings pertaining to this question, and how the
Inquirer really sees himself.
8. The eighth card is placed above the latter. This card
pertains to the Inquirer’s relationship with his or
her friends, and provides information regarding
jealousy or support from friendships and
relationships.
9. The ninth card is placed above the latter. This card
describes the Inquirer’s hopes and fears about the
present situation.
10. The tenth card is placed above the latter. This card
foretells the final outcome to the present situation.
Interpret the cards individually, but also look at the
whole picture in order to clearly understand the
outcome.
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