A quick reference guide for Psychopomp Tarot card divination.
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Psychopomp Tarot Divination Guide -PDF
Major Arcana
Beginnings, while often associated with youth, occur throughout a lifetime. As each new chapter unfolds, we enter as curious children – naive, irrational, impulsive creatures – overwhelmed by the unknown and yet determined to explore it. The Fool represents such a beginning, as one enters into a new phase of life.
While entering worlds unknown, we find the unknown manifests in ourselves in the form of new skills, talents or insights. The Magician reminds us that within we carry the capacity for developing new abilities, employing tools we many not yet have tried, opening the door to new possibilities.
In literal terms, the Empress presents us with the concept of motherhood – the birth of a child or start of a family. But not all births are corporeal. Ideas and projects gestate and enter the world, as a seed grows into a tree, and we nurture them as a mother would. This card embodies that natural state of caring for that which is most precious to us.
Here we encounter the concept of fatherhood, culturally understood as one who provides, secures, and protects. The Emperor reminds us that in order to make progress in life we must be secure in our understanding of the world and our resources so that we may best use them, and develop ethical codes to ensure that we remain on the righteous path.
True progress requires introspection, and the High Priestess reminds us of this. A connection to the unconscious plane has been made, through a dream or vision, and it is time to explore the hidden worlds in an effort to better know oneself and one’s spirituality.
The Hierophant introduces us to a mentor, either the one we may meet along the way or the one we find within ourselves. Wisdom is something to be uncovered throughout life -be it through education, discovery, experience or spiritual enlightenment. Invite the Hierophant to your table, and you may learn new meanings to life’s challenges.
The complications and consequences stemming from the choices we make in love are illuminated in the Lovers. It’s easy to be impulsive in romantic encounters, falling into the physical comforts of being with another. But the heart is fickle, and in order to enter into or restore a true relationship, we must examine our desires and impulses before we act on them.
In the Chariot we meet the warrior, aggressive and instinctual. Some conflicts are unavoidable; this card reminds us that as we prepare for battle, we may learn much and grow stronger from meeting the animal in ourselves regardless of the outcome.
At times instinct and impulse must be countered with rational thought. Justice reminds us that balance is necessary; there are many great decisions to be made in life, and we must hone our ideals and convictions in order to maintain perspective.
Balance and harmony is also achieved through a delicate assessment of feeling. In Temperance we encounter the challenge of finding flow by allowing ourselves to shift with the currents; not by stifling our feelings, but by finding the means to express them appropriately.
There are beasts within and without, and it takes resolve and courage to contend with them. Strength implies the need for control over baser instincts and aggression, so that our battles are fought with self-discipline and integrity.
In the process of conducting our lives one cannot maintain a constant pace – it is necessary to pause and collect one’s energy from time to time. These moments of silence and solitude serve to teach us patience, and the Hermit reminds us to use this time to evaluate and build a foundation for what has yet to come.
Fortunes change as we move through this life – for good or ill. The Wheel of Fortune appears at a time when we encounter a turn of fate, reminding us that some things are beyond our control.
In an effort to greet new and better horizons, we must on occasion sacrifice that which gave us comfort. The Hanged Man waits suspended in the anxious space between the old and the new, reminding us that often the things that provide us security anchor us in place, preventing us from moving forward, and therefore must be let go.
In Death we find ourselves at the inevitable end to one phase of life. The old ways have passed, never to return again, yet in our grief we turn to the dawn of a new chapter – where we will venture once more into the unknown
In confronting the Devil we confront our deepest, darkest desires – these shameful, base instincts that every human being is subject to. There is no denying these facets of one’s personality; so we must take the opportunity to examine and commune with them in the effort to continue our spiritual growth.
The security of all that we built is fleeting as the Tower unfolds. The foundation of what we know to be true begins to collapse around us, and as it crumbles as do we. Here we are presented with the challenge to adapt to the sudden changes around us, and accept that nothing in life is permanent.
A beacon of hope appears as does a twinkling light in the night sky; even as life has us torn and buried in darkness. The Star augers a promise, yet to be fulfilled, that may serve to light our way back along the path.
In dreams we visit a vast unending world beyond this one, in a state enveloped by confusion and emotion without sense of time. The Moon introduces us to the realm of the collective unconscious, where all beings share a history, and individuals find resolve in a dream state. In periods of anxiety, dreams keep us connected to our hopes and desires – until we are prepared to re-enter reality.
The bright light of day greets us with the Sun, invoking a state of optimism and clarity after emerging from the darkness. This warmth beckons us toward fulfillment.
Before we move into the next phase of life, we face the psychopomp who awaits us to lead us along our continued path. Before this transition, however, we are tasked with evaluating the journey thus far – the efforts and errors that were made that ultimately affect our future. Judgment reminds us to be true to ourselves, for there is no escaping all that’s past – all worlds are connected.
At long last all facets of our lives are integrated in the World, where the efforts made for personal growth result in individuation. The goal is achieved, but life goes on as the cycle continues. New challenges will arise as we venture into a new phase of life, but take solace in the achievements made so far.
Minor Arcana
Cups
The Cups suit relates to the examination of feeling and interpersonal relationships.
The Ace of Cups implies the potential for the outpouring of feeling, such as the start of a new relationship, although the feelings themselves are often raw and intense.
The Two of Cups heralds a meeting of two souls, and the spark between them that has the potential to manifest as an emotional collaboration.
The Three of Cups is a celebration of emotional fulfillment, and the promise of continuing into deeper, more meaningful experiences.
The Four of Cups represents a state of discontent in a relationship, where one may be harboring resentment after being let down by a partner, and thus forced to look more deeply at the situation.
The Five of Cups signifies remorse after wrongdoing – either from being betrayed or being the betrayer. This may augur the end of a relationship, but nothing is ever final. The challenge to repair what is broken has been presented.
The Six of Cups is a card of possibility. Hopes and dreams seem to show potential for manifestation, as we enter a state of pensive reflection over the nostalgic fantasies of the past.
The Seven of Cups presents us with the choice we have yet to make. In matters of love, we sometimes find ourselves at an impasse, where many options have presented themselves. However, we much be careful to choose the path that realistically suits us best.
The Eight of Cups represents the painful task of letting go of that which we have long held on to. As difficult as it can be to give up, there is a point where we must realize that there is nothing more to be done with this venture. We must muster through the depression and being again.
In the Nine of Cups we are at last satisfied with the culmination of efforts so far. Our most cherished wish is fulfilled; a dream manifested into reality.
The Ten of Cups heralds a state of ongoing contentment. The dream, fulfilled, now seems permanent as the emotional and spiritual understanding between lovers is complete.
The Page of Cups enters as a renewal of faith in feeling; where the capacity for love has been found again after a period of heartbreak. It is more than the willingness to fall in love, but the realization that one is worthy of receiving love.
The Knight of Cups enters as an adventurous spirit; one that revels in romance and the experience of love on many levels. It is time to embrace this spirit, and become swept up in the journey.
The Queen of Cups illuminates the deep and mysterious realm of feeling that may have been hidden from us thus far. Although we may tread such waters with unease, the seduction of diving deeper is undeniable. Go carefully, but stay the course, for developing an understanding of these feelings is a catalyst for individuation.
The King of Cups represents the counselor, one with great capacity for empathy and support, yet with hidden wounds. We may meet this lonely guide within ourselves, one who is eager to help others but reticent to relinquish control over their feelings. Yet wounds will heal over time, and with it the courage to venture into deeper waters.
Wands
The Wands suit presents the trials and tribulations surrounding a creative venture.
The Ace of Wands represents an outburst of creative energy accompanied by a sense of restlessness and unease with the present state. It is time to pursue the vision and manifest it.
The Two of Wands enters as a new idea or concept is manifested, like the promise of a fresh and original work. It will take courage and tenacity to seek to fulfill its potential.
In the Three of Wands we sit back and revel in the initial completion of a project. The vision has a tangible foundation that can be built upon, and we look ahead to the work that has yet to done.
The Four of Wands rewards us for our efforts so far. Our vision has garnered positive results and we can enjoy this moment of optimism before setting out again to continue our creative endeavor.
The Five of Wands reminds us that with every endeavor there are times of difficulty and setbacks. Some creative visions require meeting great demands and we struggle to accomplish them. A compromise may be required in order to continue our pursuit.
The Six of Wands signifies the transition from personal satisfaction in one’s work to public acclaim. This acknowledgement not only provides support for the work itself, but bolsters our confidence in pursuing it further.
The Seven of Wands presents us with the overwhelming anxiety associated with increasing competition. Other creative forces are staking their claim, and the consequential feelings of inadequacy can disrupt our process. We must challenge ourselves to improve upon what we have made and not lose sight of its true value – as well as our own value.
The Eight of Wands augurs a burst of creative energy after a period of struggle, where we finally feel that we have room to breathe and take off. This is an advantageous time where we can fly with the flow of creativity, now that prior anxieties and stressors have been resolved.
The Nine of Wands reminds us that we often have the capacity for overcoming obstacles by employing the strength we have kept in reserve. We may not be aware of this potential energy until we find ourselves in such circumstances. As a new and great challenge arises, we meet it head on, even if it seems that we have exhausted all of our resources.
The Ten of Wands signifies the moment we realize that there is no means to continue on our present course. We are overwhelmed by the demands at hand, and as a result our creative process is completely stifled. It is time to step back and restart the process if we seek to recover it.
The Page of Wands enters as a fledgling spark of creativity, new and restless in an environment that doesn’t always readily accept it. One is challenged with a choice to embrace the fantasy and explore this creative potential, despite the supposed impracticality of it.
The Knight of Wands augurs a need for adventure and inspiration. Charmed by a plethora of new ideas and energized by a new environment, one is compelled to seek new ways to expand their creative potential.
The Queen of Wands represents the qualities of loyalty, warmth, and dedication of the heart and the craft. We are reminded that to achieve consistency in our work as we manifest our vision, there needs to be room for great love in the process.
The King of Wands is the harbinger of creative success, having followed and achieved a vision to its fruition. We are presented with a dynamic and effective leader, within ourselves or in someone we meet, who ideas have garnered great achievements and effected positive changes for themselves and for their community.
Swords
The Swords suit involves the often turbulent realm of the mind, and its capacity for resolving conflicts, abating emotional trauma, and securing convictions.
The Ace of Swords heralds the awakening of intellect and mental powers as a result of impending conflict. A strategy will be devised, and efforts made to cut through it and into a new phase.
The Two of Swords reflects a draw; there is a delicate and tense juxtaposition of energies that, if disrupted, would result in intense conflict. Such a clash may be inevitable; it is time to face the opposition.
The Three of Swords indicates a painful situation, where one may have suffered heartbreak or defeat. Yet through the piercing pain there is also a sense of release – a chance to recover and heal.
In the Four of Swords we seek the space to withdraw and contemplate the struggle thus far. In separating ourselves from life’s antics, especially after a period of strife, we can find the means to recuperate and examine the situation before engaging further opposition.
The Five of Swords reminds us that we have limits to our abilities, and the boundaries set about us may have been overstepped. It is time to reassess and find a new way to proceed.
The Six of Swords indicates a time when one finds the ability to gather their strength and move forward, away from a turbulent situation. From the development of new insights and comprehension of the circumstances will come the tranquility required to move forward.
The Seven of Swords comes at a time when we must use our mental powers to develop new strategies and a more diplomatic means of resolving a conflict. It may require compromise, but guile is the only effective means of finding a solution.
In the Eight of Swords our actions are inhibited by fear of consequence. There appears to be no right answer that doesn’t lead us to an undesired result. In this paralytic state, one must reflect on the path taken so far, and how the current situation may be a result of our own actions.
The nightmare of the Nine of Swords is a result of past conflicts and decisions made. the future appears uncertain and bleak, and one is fraught with anxiety and fear of a negative outcome. Yet the future is unwritten, and much of this foreboding, under examination, is nothing more than a mental construct.
The Ten of Swords heralds the end to conflict. It may signal one’s ultimate defeat, resulting in exhaustion and pain, yet the struggle is over and we can begin to seek redemption for the ideas and decisions that led us to this point.
In the Page of Swords we encounter the young, imaginative and social emergence of fledgling mental powers. Prior to the development of independent, informed views, there is a period of initial acceptance of others’ and the gossip that results from it. But the Page signifies growth and the capacity for an honest and personal perspective.
The Knight of Swords prepares us for the imminent and sudden changes we must face. The energy manifested is proud and inspired, with the ability to adapt to the shifts in the wind and defend against its foes – those within and without.
The Queen of Swords reflects the unmoving will to adhere to the highest ideals. Loyalty, integrity, and conviction are paramount in a world that is always subject to compromising ideals. Often these standards are difficult or impossible to meet; but in the effort we develop even stronger convictions and become more than what we are.
The King of Swords illustrates the pinnacle of intellectual strength, leading the way for us as we embark on a mental journey. This also reflects an ambivalence of character that can seem unfeeling, yet this detachment serves to preserve the highest principles of thought and develop new strategies and innovations.
Pentacles
The Pentacles suit revolves around the building of home and fortune, and the endeavor to acquire material and natural wealth.
The Ace of Pentacles signifies the desire to manifest material achievement. The energy is being drawn with ambitions abound; with persistence the fulfillment of one’s aspirations seems possible.
The Two of Pentacles marks the beginning of a project; the planting of seeds that have potential to grow into something more. With resources gathered, efforts can begin to build a foundation for germinating ideas.
In the Three of Pentacles our efforts have yielded early fruit, bolstering confidence that with continued perseverance and hard work we may achieve greater and more permanent success.
The Four of Pentacles points to an insistence on clinging to one’s resources, almost greedily, for fear of losing anything to further ventures. Yet in holding down what has been acquired, it eliminates the possibility of further success and stifles creativity.
The Five of Pentacles reminds us that with creative and material ventures comes the occasional loss. With the depletion of finances or resources we face a loss of faith in our ideas and ability to manifest them. However, setbacks are just another aspect of this process and a challenge set to help us re-evaluate.
The Six of Pentacles implies that the recovery of our efforts may be helped through the generosity of others. In that spirit, to share one’s gains with others and thus carrying on the cycle of charity can further increase a wealth of spirit as well as that of the material realm.
In the Seven of Pentacles we are presented with a choice – continue with the familiar tasks involved in our current endeavor, or pour resources into a new and seductive prospect. There are no guarantees in taking new risks, yet there is an undeniable desire to pursue these inspirations. A time of careful assessment is warranted before a decision is made.
The Eight of Pentacles illustrates the inspiration behind the development of new skills or aspirations. The opportunity to grow in a new direction is presented, and we seek to depart from the norm with renewed enthusiasm.
The Nine of Pentacles augurs a time of pleasure and self-worth. Achievements have been successful made, and with it wealth and a sense of satisfaction for one’s efforts.
In the Ten of Pentacles, the achievements we have made are rooted deeply and permanently, guaranteeing security for ourselves and for others. The value of what we have created is greater still for generations that may come after.
The Page of Pentacles reminds us to gather and grow, manifesting energies from different sources that could help us fulfill our goals. The Page starts us out with dedication and delicate effort, encouraging us to take the single seed and nurture it until it becomes a garden.
The industrious vision of the Knight of Pentacles illuminates the value of dedicated work and reliability. In service to a singular cause, the Knight reminds us that there are benefits to be reaped from even the most mundane of tasks.
The Queen of Pentacles represents the enrichment of life through physical and spiritual pleasures. Pragmatic, yet generous, this figure exudes warm and stable energy, confident in her resources and her connection to the Earth.
In the King of Pentacles we meet the image of ambition and achievement. The hard-working, dynamic spirit of the King seeks new challenges and further endeavors, proceeding with an earned confidence and sense of security.
D Branchaud Art 