The ultimate tarot thread! (merged)

[ihmurria]

ask questions!
request readings
do readings
make comments!
S

little question

I've heard you aren't supposed to do Tarot readings for yourself, ever

reliable info?

EDIT also Nimh has contributed this fun online tarot quiz, click here
http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/whattarot.htm

[steffan]

my first experience with this kind of thing was with the runes, and those are mostly for yourself.
come to think of it most poeple I've known who use the torotcards mostly, or even only use them for themselves

relieble info, yikes,
i personly think anyone can use the tarot no mater what there religon, It seems to have more to do with the individual than dogma

[Samhain]

little question

I've heard you aren't supposed to do Tarot readings for yourself, ever

reliable info?
my take on this is a little different from the one above, people say don't read for yourself, because its difficult to be objective and one tends to read all kind of things into it. its better for someone else that isn't involued in your situation to read for you for these readings.
however if you bear in mind that your readings may not be entirley accurate, sure theres no reason why you can't read for your self
S

[seamonster66]

i'll take a reading :D

[hippychickmommy]

I did tarot cards on myself a long time back. I remember freaking out when I got the death card. I had someone else do tarot cards on me and the death card came up then as well, but the person explained that it could mean the death of a current life but rebirth of another one, basically, changes were afoot. Anyway, my life did go through some major changes not long after, so it was pretty appropriate!

[ihmurria]

my take on this is a little different from the one above, people say don't read for yourself, because its difficult to be objective and one tends to read all kind of things into it. its better for someone else that isn't involued in your situation to read for you for these readings.
however if you bear in mind that your readings may not be entirley accurate, sure theres no reason why you can't read for your self
S
eeexcellent

someone had been trying to convince me that doing readings for yourself screwed up your cards/messed with their power
http://www.hipforums.com/forums/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

[Samhain]

Ihmurra, i was thinking if you wanted to do 'self' work with the tarot, a better way to get focass into a problem or the situation right now, is to pick one card put it in a prominate place where you will see it daily and spend up to half an hour each day for one week meditating on the imagery of that card and how it speaks to you about your present life circumstances
S

[kitty fabulous]

I have about 11 years of study with the tarot and about 8 years of experience as a professional reader. I'm supposed to be working on writing a course, but am still getting my shit together.

In regards to reading for yourself, I feel that the tarot is a very powerful tool for self-transformation and discovery. There are many tarot guides written for just this kind of work. One that comes immediately to mind is a Llewellyn book called something like Tarot Shadow Work.

I often read for myself on issues like personal development and spirituality. When I am attempting to divine the outcome of a situation, I will often go to another reader who is removed from the situation, for a less emotion-charged reading. Although as Samhain found out, sometimes even that's not enough, and projections can still seep in. If you're reading about an issue that is very close at hand, or very charged with emotion, it might be wise to step back and put the cards away and not read at all for awhile. This kind of emotion-charged reading can exacerbate attachments or spiritual or psychological "clinginess" that can be slowing the manifestation of your True Will and dragging your spiritual development.

You may find there's some subjects you can read for yourself on, some you find yourself needing a different perspective on, and some you might not want to read about at all. For example, for me, it's probably a good idea if I avoided readings about relationships altogether, as I've a lot of attachments in that arena, and will project intense emotion all over the place.

Samhain asked me to post here regarding some book recommendations. I'll start a separate thread for the chakra/personal development books, but I'll list the tarot recommendations here.

The subject at hand was reversals. Some people don't do them. I find that reversals add depth to a reading. Reversals can be interpreted in several ways, and one way isn't always right all the time, sometimes even within the same spread! I've not the time here to go into depth on the reading of reversals, (I could and probably will teach a whole class on it someday) but for now, I'd like to recommend a book. For those of you who are experienced readers, Llewellyn publications has an excellent Advanced Tarot series, including The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals, by Mary Greer, available in book stores and pagan/new age shops and directly from the publisher, here:

http://www.llewellyn.com/bookstore/book.php?pn=K285

More important, I think, than the individual reversal interpretations of each card (which are included) I think is the exploration of the consciousness with which we explore reversals, and the tarot in general. Greer spends a lot of time exploring the Hanged Man card, for the "switched perspective" of this very important archetype embraces the consciousness of reversed tarot readings. She even includes a spread based on the Hanged Man symbolism, in which each card is interpreted both upright and reversed.

Incidentally, if anyone's interested, I do have a second-hand copy for sale. It is in fair to good condition, although it does have extensive highlighting, and maybe a few notes. I haven't gotten around to listing the used books in my shop yet. PM me if your interested, or check out the ordering information thread in my shop.


On the subject of tarot consciousness, reversals, and switching perspectives, I would also like to recommend a deck, that slightly alters our perspective of traditional tarot symbolism. It's called The Tarot of the New Vision, and is available as a deck, and in a kit with a full-sized book, also by Llewellyn.

http://www.llewellyn.com/bookstore/book.php?pn=J413 (deck)
http://www.llewellyn.com/bookstore/book.php?pn=J706 (kit)

This deck is unique in that it takes the "traditional" (or rather, popular) images from the classic Rider-Waite-Smith illustrations, and flips them around from another angle. When looking at the Magician, for example, we are facing his back, and are looking upon the audience that gazes in amazement of his feats. A monkey tugs at his robes, which could represent the conscience if the Magician is a mere charlatan, or the chattering distractions of "Monkey Mind" for the serious practioner. By changing the perspective with which we view the tarot, and adding new or hidden symbolism, we are able to alter our consciousness regarding the meanings of the cards, and expand our understandings of them.

I use this deck often in conjunction with the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, or the recolored Universal Waite deck, which is often seen as more approachable and less intimidating to the modern querant as Mary Hanson Roberts' colored pencil work is less stark than the limited 3 color printing of AE Waite's day. It is especially useful in combination with one of the above decks for doing compatibility readings, for example. Because of the altered perception, it's also a good deck for dream work or for readings on a magical or shamanic level. I perfer to use this deck during the waning half of the moon's cycle, or for the dark half of the year, between Midsummer and Yule.


Samhain and I were also discussing custom and self-written spreads, as I was endeavoring to use a very detailed, original spread for his reading. For experienced readers interested in expanding their knowledge of spreads and designing their own, I'd like to recommend another book from the Advanced Tarot series, Designing Your Own Tarot Spreads, by Teresa Michelsen. This is an excellent guide for the advanced or professional reader interested in creating custom spreads for their own or their querents' unique needs.

http://www.llewellyn.com/bookstore/book.php?pn=J263

I have a second-hand copy of this book available, too.

For descriptions of original spreads, designed by me after studying this book, check the Tarot By Email thread in my shop in the Hip Shops, here:

http://www.hipforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=168846

(the original spreads are listed in posts 4 and 5; Bramble's Stairway and The Artist's Palette.)

[fritz]

I've got a friend who can read with a regular card deck. I bought her the dragon tarot for xmas.
I would think it's difficult to be totally objective with yourself. I use runes for personal problems sporadically. It is difficult to except things, your subconcious tends to deal with these things before the rest of you can IMHO.
I like a three stone reading for runes. I don't use them as a divination tool. Only as a tool for uncovering things I hadn't been quite ready to confront yet, but need to.

[kitty fabulous]

I think in a lot of ways, the runes can be more revealing and provide more information in many ways than the tarot, because of their simplicity and openness and depth. I generally prefer single-card readings.

I teach playing card reading as part of my tarot class.

[warmhandedcanadian]

I had a rather interesting and positive tarot reading yesterday. A couple of weeks back Sam channeled a tree spirit... in it he said I was my own elder and something was blocking me from achieiving this growth .... this lead to the pot vs. husband thread. Well yesterday in the reading it said that my attachment to my husband is preventing me from future successes .... this was my challange. Very interesting don't you think?

I have to overcome this attachemnt to the past, our home, our children.... these thoughts are holding me back from my triumph.

I guess in the back of my mind I am hoping he will snap back into regular thoughts and everything will be great. I have to move forward.

[Samhain]

Jess I agree with you, however I don't think you need to overcome any attachment to your children, everything else I totally agree
S

[IllusoryFreedom]

I read tarot for myself, but I like runes better.
I'm still an uber beginner at both, however.

[seamonster66]

I'm still waiting for sam to read mine online, i have never had it done...

HiNT

[Samhain]

I'm still waiting for sam to read mine online, i have never had it done...

HiNT
gary when we are both on together (not like now where i'm running in and out) I will read for you, but would you post a review on this thread?
S

[seamonster66]

of course i would, i hope there are many death cards so i can write a cryptic review

[Samhain]

of course i would, i hope there are many death cards so i can write a cryptic review
theres only one death card, also i suppose theres a handful including death that would represent an ending
S

[warmhandedcanadian]

Jess I agree with you, however I don't think you need to overcome any attachment to your children, everything else I totally agree
S
No it meant more that I have to detach from the things we have together... it is keeping me bound to D I think .... It said I was attached to our success .... or something like that.

I know that's what has been holding me back, our life together.

I'm curious to hear what Gary's cards have to say too!

[rg paddler]

I agree that getting a reading from someone who is not involved with you personally is likely to result in a more reliable reading cos alot seems to come down to how the cards are interpreted.

A romany girl read mine a couple of times and it was almost as if the cards acted as an aid to insight that she had already.I got the distinct feeling that it was as if she had opened up a book entitled 'rg paddlers deeper sub-conscious' and was choosing which parts of it would be useful or safe for me to be aware of.

Her mom was quite scarey - she had a really haunting voice and sang all the Joan Baez songs,but her jet black eyes used to burn right through me

[nimh]

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/whattarot.htm

[nimh]

THE HIGH PRIESTESS

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hp.jpg

Spiritual enlightenment, inner illumination, hidden power. Link between seen and unseen. Balance of positive and negative forces. Receptivity. Unseen guidance.
A young woman sits on a throne holding a scroll labeled "Tora" meaning "law." On her breast is the sign of the meeting of heaven and earth, the Maltese cross. Her crown is the full orb supported by horns, the crown ofthe Mother Goddess Isis, who rules all things changeable, shown by the moon at her feet. Her power, upon which her throne rests, derives from the creative principle of duality, shown by the two pillars of light and darkness. To those who know and love her she dispenses the sweet fruit of the world itself, symbolized by the pomegranites.

[icedteapriestess]

no surprises, but I am The Fool

Undirected Creative Force. Open, receptive, devoid of pre-conceived notions. Beginnings.

A young man holding the white rose of innocence in his left hand and grasping a vagabond's staff and satchel in the other, wanders with his gaze to the heaves, about to step into and abyss. His is the transformative journey of the spirit from innocence through experience into wisdom. his guardian and friend is the white dog symbolizing his own puppylike trust and faith, for which the world labels him The Fool.

[ihmurria]

no surprises, but I am The Fool

Undirected Creative Force. Open, receptive, devoid of pre-conceived notions. Beginnings.

A young man holding the white rose of innocence in his left hand and grasping a vagabond's staff and satchel in the other, wanders with his gaze to the heaves, about to step into and abyss. His is the transformative journey of the spirit from innocence through experience into wisdom. his guardian and friend is the white dog symbolizing his own puppylike trust and faith, for which the world labels him The Fool.
heehehe...



I'm also the high priestess apparently :confused: we'll see

[indian~summer]

THE HANGED MAN

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hm.jpg

Suspended decision. Initiation, divination, prophecy. Turning point in psychic powers. Trust in inner voice.
Suspension, change, reversal, boredom, abandonment, sacrifice, readjustment, improvement, rebirth
He usually represents a time of feeling in limbo, being stuck or being prevented from moving forward. He's usually depicted hanging upside down with his hands tied - that's just what it feels like! We need to remain flexible and willing to let go of things, it's probably a time for sacrifice. Like the man in this card from the Murciano Tarot, don't sweat it, take some time out and be patient.
The Hanged Man - External Meaning: Spiritual awareness and the happiness and assuredness it brings. Sacrificing for a noble purpose. Reveral of one's current way of life. Inner peace. Developed intuition and prophecy. Esoteric Meaning: The spirit of the mighty waters. Reversing false images. Sacrifice. Energys: Water

[The Deer Hunter]

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

Destiny, fortune, luck, success. The 4 elements. Unexpected turn of luck.
In the midst of sky and clouds is the disk of Tarot with the letters of the Divine Name placed between. At the corners are the four guardians of the earth: the eagle, the man, the bull and the lion. The disk is in movement signifying constant change and transformation. The sphinx atop the wheel holds the sword of discernment and represents balance in the midst of unending fluidity.

[hippychickmommy]

THE HIGH PRIESTESS


Spiritual enlightenment, inner illumination, hidden power. Link between seen and unseen. Balance of positive and negative forces. Receptivity. Unseen guidance.
A young woman sits on a throne holding a scroll labeled "Tora" meaning "law." On her breast is the sign of the meeting of heaven and earth, the Maltese cross. Her crown is the full orb supported by horns, the crown ofthe Mother Goddess Isis, who rules all things changeable, shown by the moon at her feet. Her power, upon which her throne rests, derives from the creative principle of duality, shown by the two pillars of light and darkness. To those who know and love her she dispenses the sweet fruit of the world itself, symbolized by the pomegranites.

[nimh]

we have a lot of priestesses around here! :)

[Greengirl]

THE HIGH PRIESTESS

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hp.jpg

Spiritual enlightenment, inner illumination, hidden power. Link between seen and unseen. Balance of positive and negative forces. Receptivity. Unseen guidance.
A young woman sits on a throne holding a scroll labeled "Tora" meaning "law." On her breast is the sign of the meeting of heaven and earth, the Maltese cross. Her crown is the full orb supported by horns, the crown ofthe Mother Goddess Isis, who rules all things changeable, shown by the moon at her feet. Her power, upon which her throne rests, derives from the creative principle of duality, shown by the two pillars of light and darkness. To those who know and love her she dispenses the sweet fruit of the world itself, symbolized by the pomegranites.

[mynameiskc]

high priestess, yet again. maybe i'm not reading the questions just right, because i seem more the fool to myself than anything else. i'm thinking my tarot vibe isn't quite right, even though i've ALWAYS been drawn to them. i bought my friend one as a gift, it called to me to buy for her. i got myself one (not my first) because it FELT right. i trust my gut VERY much. but whenever i see it, despite my true delight, i don't feel right consulting my deck yet. have any of you who use the taro know what i'm talking about?

[Weaveworld]

THE HIGH PRIESTESS :p

[sylvanlightning]

THE HIGH PRIESTESS

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hp.jpg

:)

[Samhain]

http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hm.jpg

Suspended decision. Initiation, divination, prophecy. Turning point in psychic powers. Trust in inner voice.
Suspension, change, reversal, boredom, abandonment, sacrifice, readjustment, improvement, rebirth
He usually represents a time of feeling in limbo, being stuck or being prevented from moving forward. He's usually depicted hanging upside down with his hands tied - that's just what it feels like! We need to remain flexible and willing to let go of things, it's probably a time for sacrifice. Like the man in this card from the Murciano Tarot, don't sweat it, take some time out and be patient.
The Hanged Man - External Meaning: Spiritual awareness and the happiness and assuredness it brings. Sacrificing for a noble purpose. Reveral of one's current way of life. Inner peace. Developed intuition and prophecy. Esoteric Meaning: The spirit of the mighty waters. Reversing false images. Sacrifice. Energys: Water

[Samhain]

Nimh as usual, a lovely thread, theres actually another thread on here about tarot that people can explore by clicking on this link!
http://www.hipforums.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=169963
S

[Samhain]

I thought I would bring this back to accopany, the other tarot thread we have at present started by Nimh
S

[nimh]

thanks, samhain, good idea.
:)

i didnt want to put the fluffy webquiz on this thread, ykwim

my favourite interpretation of the tarot is a little book that i found in a second hand store: tarot for successful living by norma cowie. it's such a beautiful little book

i just flipped it open, and it's talking bout doing readings for yourself:
In reading for ourselves we must be objective, one way of doing this is to write down what the symbols are saying, as though you are reading for someone else, then reread it. nothing will hinder you more in reading for yourself than having an emotional thought in the middle of your interpretation. also, when doing a larger reading, you can talk into a tape recorder, forgetting it is for you until the end. then go back over it. you will be surprised how much you will learn, and how much you would have missed if you had just looked at the cards and reacted to them as you wen talong. by being objective any one can read for themselves with good results.

[Samhain]

thanks, samhain, good idea.
:)

i didnt want to put the fluffy webquiz on this thread, ykwim

my favourite interpretation of the tarot is a little book that i found in a second hand store: tarot for successful living by norma cowie. it's such a beautiful little book

i just flipped it open, and it's talking bout doing readings for yourself:
that web quiz would go well on here, how would you feel about merging it, after people have stopped posting on it?
S

[Samhain]

Oh nimh the quote from that book was spot on, what book is it and who wrote it?
S

[warmhandedcanadian]

Nimh i got the same as you and most others!

<a href="http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/whattarot.htm">I Am<br><img src="http://www.celticdesires.com/tarot/hp.jpg" border="0" height="228" width="175"><br>Which tarot card are you?</a>

[Samhain]

I wish I'd got 'the high priestess' :confused:
S

[mynameiskc]

the high priestess is all i ever get. or the world. i go to a reading, that's what i get. i feel like i'm stagnating.

[Samhain]

the high priestess is all i ever get. or the world. i go to a reading, that's what i get. i feel like i'm stagnating.
they are the two best cads you can get and may be suggesting that you aren't noticing the many treasures you have in your life
S

[mynameiskc]

or perhaps i'm egotistical...recognizing my treasures is something i excel at. maybe it just means i'm very well blessed and will hopefully continue to be so.

[Samhain]

or perhaps i'm egotistical...recognizing my treasures is something i excel at. maybe it just means i'm very well blessed and will hopefully continue to be so.
absolutly, although I would point out that what you have just said doesn't go with stagnating
S

[warmhandedcanadian]

they are the two best cads you can get and may be suggesting that you aren't noticing the many treasures you have in your life
S
you said "cads"hehe.


I feel like she symbolizes enlightment.

[mynameiskc]

wow. that's incredibly complimentary...thanks. golly. i'm a very loving person, too. ;)

[warmhandedcanadian]

we're all growing though.

;)

Im stoned ignore me.

[Samhain]

we're all growing though.

;)

Im stoned ignore me.
at least your in a better mood than last time you where on :p
S

[mynameiskc]

no doubt. that's always a good thing.

[warmhandedcanadian]

I like the card of the SUN .....


If I got to choose one.

[Samhain]

I like the card of the SUN .....


If I got to choose one.
very postive, speaks of good things to come, things are becoming very clear and nothing is hidden
also speaks of childlike fun
S

[warmhandedcanadian]

its perfect.

[Samhain]

http://www.hipgallery.com/photopost2/data/500/Sun4.jpg
isn't this a gorgeus sun card?

click here for some of their other designs
http://www.heavenandearthdesigns.com/SLAWTarot.html
S