A DESCRIPTION OF
THE CARDS OF THE TAROT
H R U
THE GREAT ANGEL
is
set over the operations of the Secret Wisdom
{GR: Alpha chi-alpha-iota Omega}
The First and the Last
"WHAT thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the Seven Abodes which be in Aushiah."
"And I saw in the Right Hand of Him that Sate upon the Throne a Book, sealed with Seven Seals."
"Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the Seals thereof?'
S.Y.M.B.O.L.A. ☥ {Ankh}
THE FRONTISPIECE
CONSISTS of a Crux Ansata, which is a form of the Rosy Cross. One arm is scarlet, with the symbols of ♌ {Leo} and the Wand in emerald green.
Another is blue with Eagle and Cup in orange.
A third is yellow, with ♒ {Aquarius} and Dagger in violet.
The last is in the four colours of Malkuth, with Pentacle and ♉ {Taurus} in black.
Ring is white, having at the top the Name of the Great Angel 
{Theban} H U A;
below cross-bar are Pentagrams, one enclosing Sol and the other enclosing Luna.
The whole space in the ring contains the Rose of 22 Petals bearing the Names of the 22 Keys.
In the centre a white circle, and a red cross of four equal arms.
About the whole symbol are the words:
L.I.F.E. — B.I.O.S. — V.I.T.A.
and the letters —
T. A. P. O., Tarot.
{Illustration facing page 145 described:
This is a figure in the shape of an Ankh, with symbols about and upon the form. The loop is a series of four concentric bands like the Rose cross, about a central circle. The central circle is quartered by a vertical Greek cross. This cross has a dot in the center and is marked "Red on white." The ring just about this circle is divided by radial segments into three chambers, with one centered at top; clockwise from top, the chambers are marked: "Bright pale yellow", "Glowing orange scarlet", "Deep blue". The next ring outward is divided into seven chambers, one to bottom, and marked clockwise from 1 o'clock: "Violet", "Indigo", "Blue", "Emerald Green", "Yellow", "Orange", "Red". The next ring outward is divided into twelve chambers, division at top and bottom with six to either side; clockwise from 1 o'clock: "Crimson", "Violet", "Indigo", "Blue", "Green blue", "Emerald Green", "Green Yellowish", "Yellow Greenish", "Amber", "Orange", "Red Orange", "Scarlet". The outer ring is interrupted at the bottom by a segment to match the continuation of the sloping lower sides of the lower upright, the base of this segment is defined not by the ring but by the upper portion of two diagonals drawn from the inner angles of the cross. This five-sided semi-regular figure is further divided within by two crossed lines emanating from the upper corners and extending across the center to the midpoints of the lower sides. In the four chambers resulting are these color abbreviations, clockwise from top: "Blk" (for black), "Russ" (for russet), "Cit'n" (for citrine), "Olive". To either side of this section, on the band itself, is written "white merging into grey". In the top of this outermost ring are these letters in the "Theban Alphabet": u r h — signifying the "Angel" or "God of Tarot", HRU.
The left arm of the Ankh has from left to right: the symbol of ♏ {Scorpio} (the "M" style, not the Eagle as noted in text), a cup, the words "Deep Blue; Symbols in yellow". The right arm of the Ankh has from left to right: "the words "Red; symbols in Green", a lotus wand, the symbol of ♌ {Leo}.
The basal upright of the Ankh has these in the lower half only, from bottom upward: the symbol of ♒ {Aquarius}, an upright sword in style of the Solomonic Key, the words "Yellow; symbols in Violet.
There are markings and symbols outside the shape of the Ankh: Upper left corner: "L-I-F-E-" above a large "T". Upper right corner: "V-I-T-A-" above a large "A". To left of base: large "O". To right of base: large "P". Below base: "B-I-O-S-" just above the caption "THE COMPLETE SYMBOL OF THE TAROT". The large letters spell "TARO" in Greek capitals {GR:Tau-Alpha-Rho-Omicron}. In the wedges defined by the lower sides of the cross-arms and the base upright sides: to left an upright pentagram with the dot-in-circle ☉ {Sun} symbol in its pentagonal center. To right the same, but with a crescent moon, horns to right.
[ weh NOTE: There is a very small semi-italic note at the lower right, below all else {"To face p.145" }: ]
THE TITLES OF THE SYMBOLS
1. The Ace of Wands is called the Root of the Powers of 🜂 {Fire}.
2. The Ace of Cups is called the Root of the Powers of 🜄 {Water}.
3. The Ace of Swords is called the Root of the Powers of 🜁 {Air}.
4. The Ace of Pentacles is called the Root of the Powers
of 🜃 {Earth}.
5. The Knight of Wands is "The Lord of the Flame and
Lighting: the King of the Spirits of 🜂 {Fire}."
6. The Queen of Wands is "The Queen of the Thrones of
Flame."
7. The King of Wands is "The Prince of the Chariot of
🜂 {Fire}."
8. The Knave of Wands is "The Princess of the
Shining Flame: the Rose of the Palace of 🜂 {Fire}."
9. The Knight of Cups is "The Lord of the Waves and the
Waters: the King of the Hosts of the Sea."
10. The Queen of Cups is "The Queen of the Thrones of
the Waters."
11. The King of Cups is "The Prince of the Chariot of
the Waters."
12. The Knave of Cups is "The Princess of the Waters:
the Lotus of the Palace of the Floods."
13. The Knight of Swords is "The Lord of the Wind and
the Breezes: the King of the Spirits of 🜁 {Air}."
14. The Queen of Swords is "The Queen of the Thrones
of 🜁 {Air}."
15. The King of Swords is "The Prince of the Chariot
of the Winds."
16. The Knave of Swords is "The Princess of the
Rushing Winds: the Lotus of the Palace of 🜁 {Air}."
17. The Knight of Pentacles is "The Lord of the Wide
and Fertile Land: the King of the Spirits of 🜃 {Earth}."
18. The Queen of Pentacles is "The Queen of the
Thrones of 🜃 {Earth}."
19. The King of Pentacles is "The Prince of the
Chariot of 🜃 {Earth}."
20. The Knave of Pentacles is "The Princess of
the Echoing Hills: the Rose of the Palace of 🜃 {Earth}."
[ weh NOTE: In the above table, entries 30 - 32 were marked ♍ {Virgo} by typo. This has
been corrected to ♏ {Scorpio}. ]
| THE TWENTY-TWO KEYS OF THE BOOK |
LETTER |
ATTRIB-
UTION |
| 57 |
0 |
The Foolish Man |
The Spirit of Αἰθήρ {GR:Alpha-iota-theta-eta-rho} |
a |
🜁 {Air} |
| 58 |
1 |
The Magician |
The Magus of Power |
d |
☿ {Mercury} |
| 59 |
2 |
The High Priestess |
The Priestess of the Silver Star |
g |
☾ {Moon} |
| 60 |
3 |
The Empress |
The Daughter of the Mighty Ones |
d |
♀ {Venus} |
| 61 |
4 |
The Emperor |
Sun of the Morning, chief among the Mighty |
h |
♈ {Aries} |
| 62 |
5 |
The Hierophant |
The Magus of the Eternal |
w |
♉ {Taurus} |
| 63 |
6 |
The Lovers |
The Children of the Voice; the Oracles of the Mighty Gods |
z |
♊ {Gemini} |
| 64 |
7 |
The Chariot |
The Child of the Powers of the Waters; the Lord of the Triumph of Light |
j |
♋ {Cancer} |
| 65 |
11 |
Fortitude |
The Daughter of the Flaming Sword |
f |
♌ {Leo} |
| 66 |
9 |
The Hermit |
The Magus of the Voice of Power,the Prophet of the Eternal |
y |
♍ {Virgo} |
| 67 |
10 |
The Wheel of Fate |
The Lord of the Forces of Life |
k |
♃ {Jupiter} |
| 68 |
8 |
Justice |
The Daughter of the Lords of Truth: the Ruler of the Balance |
l |
♎ {Libra} |
| 69 |
12 |
The Hanged |
The Spirit of the Mighty Waters |
m |
🜄 {Water} |
| 70 |
13 |
Death |
The Child of the Great Transformers: the Lord of the Gates of Death |
n |
♏ {Scorpio} |
| 71 |
14 |
Temperance |
The Daughter of the Reconcilers: the Bringer-Forth of life |
s |
♐ {Sagittarius} |
| 72 |
15 |
The Devil |
The Lord of the Gates of Matter: the Child of the Forces of Time |
u |
♑ {Capricorn} |
| 73 |
16 |
The Blasted Tower |
The Lord of the Hosts of the Mighty |
p |
♂ {Mars} |
| 74 |
17 |
The Star |
The Daughter of the Firmament, the dweller between the Waters |
x |
♒ {Aquarius} |
| 75 |
18 |
The Moon |
The Ruler of Flux and Reflux: the Child of the Sons of the Mighty |
q |
♓ {Pisces} |
| 76 |
19 |
The Sun |
The Lord of the Fire of the World |
r |
☉ {Sun} |
| 77 |
20 |
The Judgement |
The Spirit of the Primal Fire |
c |
Spirit and 🜂 {Fire} |
| 78 |
21 |
The Universe |
The Great One of the Night of Time |
't |
🜃 {Earth} and ♄ {Saturn} |
Such are the Titles of the
Abodes or Atouts of Thooth;
of the
Mansions of the House of
my
FATHER.
The Descriptions of the Seventy-eight Symbols of this Book
{"T" in a circle, composed of two white bars}
together with their meanings
OF THE ACES
FIRST in order and importance are the Four Aces, representing the Force of the Spirit,
acting in, and binding together, the Four Scales of each Element: and answering to the
Dominion of the Letters of the Name in the Kether of each. They represent the Radical
Forces.
The Four Aces are said to be placed on the North Pole of the Universe wherein they
revolve, governing its revolution; and ruling as the connecting link between Yetzirah and
the Material Plane or Universe.
I
THE ROOT OF THE POWERS OF FIRE
Ace of Wands
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, issuing from clouds, and grasping a heavy club, which
has three branches in the colours, and with the sigils, of the scales. The Right-and
Left-hand branches end respectively in three Flames, and the Centre one in four Flames:
thus yielding Ten: the Number of the Sephiroth. Two-and-twenty leaping Flames, or Yodh,
surround it, answering to the Paths; of these, three fall below the Right branch for
Aleph, Men, and Shin, seven above the Central branch for the double letters; and between
it and that of the Right twelve: six above and six below about the Left-hand branch. The
whole is a great and flaming Torch. It symbolizes Force — strength, rush, vigour,
energy, and it governs, according to its nature, various works and questions.
It implies Natural, as opposed to Invoked, Force.
II
THE ROOT OF THE POWERS OF THE WATERS
Ace of Cups or Chalices
A WHITE Radiant Angelic Hand, issuing from clouds, and supporting on the palm thereof a
cup, resembling that of the Stolistes.
From it rises a fountain of clear and glistening water: and sprays falling on all sides
into clear calm water below, in which grow Lotuses and Water-lilies. The great Letter of
the Supernal Mother is traced in the spray of the Fountain.
It symbolizes Fertility — productiveness, beauty, pleasure, happiness, etc.
III
THE ROOT OF THE POWERS OF THE AIR
Ace of Swords
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, issuing from clouds, and grasping the hilt of a sword,
which supports a White Radiant Celestial Crown; from which depend, on the right, the olive
branch of Peace; and on the left, the palm branch of suffering.
Six Vaus fall from its point. It symbolizes "Invoked," as contrasted with
Natural Force: for it is the Invocation of the Sword. Raised upward, it invokes the Divine
crown of Spiritual Brightness, but reversed it is the Invocation of Demonic Force; and
becomes a fearfully evil symbol. It represents, therefore, very great power for good or
evil, but invoked; and it also represents whirling Force, and strength through trouble. It
is the affirmation of Justice upholding Divine Authority; and it may become the Sword of
Wrath, Punishment, and Affliction.
IV
THE ROOT OF THE POWERS OF THE EARTH
Ace of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiant Angelic Hand, holding a branch of a Rose Tree, whereon is a large
Pentacle, formed of Five concentric circles. The Innermost Circle is white, charged with
a red Greek Cross. From this White Centre, Twelve Rays, also white, issue: these
terminate at the circumference, making the whole something like an Astrological figure of
the Heavens.
It is surmounted by a small circle, above which is a large white Maltese Cross, and
with two white wings.
Four Crosses and two buds are shewn. The Hand issueth from the Clouds as in the other
three cases.
It represents materiality in all senses, good and evil: and is, therefore, in a sense,
illusionary: it shows material gain, labour, power, wealth, etc.
THE SIXTEEN COURT, OR ROYAL CARDS
The Four Kings
THE Four Kings, or "Figures mounted on steeds," represent the Yodh forces of
the Name in each Suit: the Radix, Father and commencement of Material Forces, a force in
which all the others are implied, and of which they form the development and completion. A
force swift and violent in its action, but whose effect soon passes away, and therefore
symbolized by a Figure on a Steed riding swiftly, and clothed in complete Armour.
Therefore is the knowledge of the scale of the King so necessary for the commencement
of all magical working.
The Four Queens
are seated upon Thrones; representing the Forces of the He of the Name in each suit;
the Mother and bringer-forth of Material Forces: a force which develops and realizes that
of the King: a force steady and unshaken, but not rapid, though enduring. It is therefore
symbolized by a Figure seated upon a Throne: but also clothed in Armour.
The Four Princes
These Princes are Figures seated in Chariots, and thus borne forward. They represent
the Vau Forces of the Name in each suit: the Mighty Son of the King and Queen, who
realizes the influence of both scales of Force. A Prince, the son of a King and Queen, yet
a Prince of Princes, and a King of Kings: an Emperor whose effect is at once rapid (though
not so swift as that of the Queen) and enduring. It is, therefore, symbolized by a Figure
borne in a Chariot, and clothed in Armour. Yet is his power vain and illusionary, unless
set in Motion by his Father and Mother.
The Four Princesses
are the Knaves of the Tarot Pack; The Four Princesses or figures of Amazons, standing
firmly of themselves: neither riding upon Horses, nor seated upon Thrones, nor borne in
Chariots. They represent the forces of the He final of the Name in each suit,
completing the Influences of the other scales: The mighty and potent daughter of a King
and Queen: a Princess powerful and terrible: a Queen of Queens — an Empress — whose
effect combines those of the King, Queen, and Prince, at once violent and permanent;
therefore symbolized by a Figure standing firmly by itself, only partially draped, and
having but little Armour; yet her power existeth not, save by reason of the others: and
then indeed it is mighty and terrible materially, and is the Throne of the Forces of the
Spirit.
Woe unto whomsoever shall make war upon her, when thus established!
THE SPHERES OF INFLUENCE OF THE COURT CARDS OF THE TAROT PACK
THE Princesses rule the Four Parts of the Celestial Heavens which lie around the north
Pole, and above the respective Cherubic Signs of the Zodiac, and they form the Thrones of
the Powers of the Four Aces.
The twelve cards, the Four Kings, Queens and Princes rule the dominion of the Celestial
Heavens, between the realm of the Four Princesses and the Zodiac, as is hereafter shewn.
And they, as it were, link together the signs.
V
THE LORD OF THE FLAME AND THE LIGHTNING; THE KING OF THE SPIRITS OF FIRE
Knight of Wands
Note that the Kings are now called Knights, and the Princes are now called Kings. This
is unfortunate, and leads to confusion; the Princes may be called Emperors without harm.
Remember only that the horsed figures refer to the Yod of Tetragrammaton, the charioted
figures to the Vau.
A WINGED Warrior riding upon a black horse with flaming mane and tail: the horse itself
is not winged. The rider wears a winged helmet (like the old Scandinavian and Gaulish
helmet) with a Rayed Crown, a corslet of scale-mail and buskins of the same, and a flowing
scarlet mantle. Above his helmet, upon his curass, and on the shoulder-pieces and buskins,
he wears as a crest a winged black horse's head. He grasps a club with flaming ends,
somewhat similar to that in the symbol of the Ace of Wands, but not so heavy, and also the
sigil of his scale is shown; beneath the rushing feet of his steed are waving flames and
fire. He is active — generous — fierce — sudden — impetuous.
If ill dignified, he is evil-minded — cruel — bigoted — brutal. He rules the
celestial heavens from above the Twentieth Degree of ♏ {Scorpio} to the First Two Decans of
♐ {Sagittarius}: and this includes a part of the Constellation Hercules. (Hercules is always
represented with a Club.)
🜂 {Fire} of 🜂 {Fire}
King of the Salamanders.
VI
THE QUEEN OF THE THRONES OF FLAME
Queen of Wands
A CROWNED queen with long red-golden hair, seated upon a Throne, with steady flames
beneath. She wears a corslet and buskins of scale-mail, which latter her robe discloses.
Her arms are almost bare. On cuirass and buskins are leopard's heads winged, and the same
symbol surmounteth her crown. At her side is a couchant leopard on which her hands rest.
She bears a long wand with a very heavy conical head. The face is beautiful and resolute.
Adaptability, steady force applied to an object, steady rule, great attractive power,
power of command, yet liked notwithstanding. Kind and generous when not opposed.
If ill dignified, obstinate, revengeful, domineering, tyrannical, and apt to turn
against another without a cause.
She rules the heavens from above the last Decan of ♓ {Pisces} to above the 20° of
♈ {Aries}: including thus a part of Andromeda.
🜄 {Water} of 🜂 {Fire}
Queen of the Salamanders.
VII
THE PRINCE OF THE CHARIOT OF FIRE
King of Wands
A KINGLY Figure with a golden, winged crown, seated on a chariot. He has large white
wings. One wheel of his chariot is shewn. He wears corslet and buskins of scale
armour decorated with a winged lion's head, which symbol also surmounts his crown. His
chariot is drawn by a lion. His arms are bare, save for the shoulder-pieces of the
corslet, and he bears a torch or fire-wand, somewhat similar to that of the Zelator
Adeptus Minor. Beneath the chariot are flames, some waved, some salient.
Swift, strong, hasty; rather violent, yet just and generous; noble and scorning
meanness.
If ill dignified — cruel, intolerant, prejudiced and ill natured.
He rules the heavens from above the last Decan of ♋ {Cancer} to the second Decan of ♌ {Leo};
hence he includes most of ♌ {Leo} Minor.
🜁 {Air} of 🜂 {Fire}
Prince and Emperor of Salamanders.
VIII
THE PRINCESS OF THE SHINING FLAME; THE ROSE OF THE PALACE OF FIRE
Knave of Wands
A VERY strong and beautiful woman with flowing red-gold hair, attired like an Amazon.
Her shoulders, arms, bosom and knees are bare. She wears a short kilt reaching to the
knee. Round her waist is a broad belt of scale-mail; narrow at the sides; broader in front
and back; and having a winged tiger's head in front. She wears a Corinthian-shaped helmet
and crown with a long plume. It also is surmounted by a tiger's head, and the same
symbol forms the buckle of her scale-mail buskins. A mantle lined with tiger's skin falls
back from her shoulders. Her right hand rests on a small golden or brazen altar ornamented
with ram's heads and with Flames of 🜂 {Fire} leaping from it. Her left hand leans on a long
and heavy club, swelling at the lower end, where the sigil is placed; and it has flames of
fire leaping from it the whole way down; but the flames are ascending. This club or torch
is much longer than that carried by the King or Queen. Beneath her firmly placed feet are
leaping Flames of 🜂 {Fire}.
Brilliance, courage, beauty, force, sudden in anger or love, desire of power,
enthusiasm, revenge.
If ill dignified, she is superficial, theatrical, cruel, unstable, domineering.
She rules the heavens over one quadrant of the portion around the North Pole.
🜃 {Earth} of 🜂 {Fire}
Princess and Empress of the Salamanders.
Throne of the Ace of Wands.
IX
THE LORD OF THE WAVES AND THE WATERS; THE KING OF THE HOSTS OF THE SEA
Knight of Cups
A BEAUTIFUL, winged, youthful Warrior with flying hair, riding upon a white horse,
which latter is not winged. His general equipment is similar to that of the Knight of
Wands, but upon his helmet, cuirass and buskins is a peacock with opened wings. He
holds a cup in his hand, bearing the sigil of the scale. Beneath his horse's feet is the
sea. From the cup issues a crab.
Graceful, poetic, ♀ {Venus}ian, indolent, but enthusiastic if roused.
Ill dignified, he is sensual, idle and untruthful.
He rules the heavens from above 20° of ♒ {Aquarius} to 20° of ♓ {Pisces}, thus
including the greater part of Pegasus.
🜂 {Fire} of 🜄 {Water}
King of Undines and Nymphs.
X
THE QUEEN OF THE THRONES OF THE WATERS
Queen of Cups
A VERY beautiful fair woman like a crowned Queen, seated upon a throne, beneath which
is flowing water wherein Lotuses are seen. Her general dress is similar to that of the
Queen of Wands, but upon her crown, cuirass and buskins is seen an Ibis with opened wings,
and beside her is the same bird, whereon her hand rests. She holds a cup, wherefrom a
crayfish issues. Her face is dreamy. She holds a lotus in the hand upon the Ibis.
She is imaginative, poetic, kind, yet not willing to take much trouble for another.
Coquettish, good-natured and underneath a dreamy appearance. Imagination stronger than
feeling. Very much affected by other influences, and therefore more dependent upon
dignity than most symbols.
She rules from 20° ♊ {Gemini} to 20° ♋ {Cancer}.
🜄 {Water} of 🜄 {Water}
Queen of Nymphs or Undines.
XI
THE PRINCE OF THE CHARIOT OF THE WATERS
King of Cups
A WINGED Kingly Figure with winged crown seated in a chariot drawn by an eagle. On the
wheel is the symbol of a scorpion. The eagle is borne as a crest on his crown, cuirass and
buskins. General attire like King of Wands. Beneath his chariot is the calm and stagnant
water of a lake. His armour resembles feathers more than scales. He holds in one hand a
lotus, and in the other a cup, charged with the sigil of his scale. A serpent issues from
the cup, and has its head tending down to the waters of the lake. He is subtle, violent,
crafty and artistic; a fierce nature with calm exterior. Powerful for good or evil but
more attracted by the evil if allied with apparent Power or Wisdom.
If ill dignified, he is intensely evil and merciless.
He rules from 20° ♎ {Libra} to 20° ♏ {Scorpio}.
🜁 {Air} of 🜄 {Water}
Prince and Emperor of Nymphs or Undines.
XII
THE PRINCESS OF THE WATERS; THE LOTUS OF THE PALACE OF THE FLOODS
Knave of Cups
A BEAUTIFUL Amazon-like figure, softer in nature than the Princess of Wands. Her attire
is similar. She stands on a sea with foaming spray. Away to her right a Dolphin. She wears
as a crest a swan with opening wings. She bears in one hand a lotus, and in the other an
open cup from which a turtle issues. Her mantle is lined with swansdown, and is of thin
floating material.
Sweetness, poetry, gentleness and kindness. Imaginative, dreamy, at times indolent, yet
courageous if roused.
When ill dignified she is selfish and luxurious.
She rules a quadrant of the heavens around Kether.
🜃 {Earth} of 🜄 {Water}
Princess and Empress of the Nymphs or Undines
Throne of the Ace of Cups.
XIII
THE LORD OF THE WINDS AND THE BREEZES: THE KING OF THE SPIRITS OF AIR
Knight of Swords
A WINGED Warrior with crowned Winged Helmet, mounted upon a brown steed. His general
equipment is as that of the Knight of Wands, but he wears as a crest a winged
six-pointed star, similar to those represented on the heads of Castor and Pollux the
Dioscuri, the twins ♊ {Gemini} (a part of which constellation is included in his rule). He
holds a drawn sword with the sigil of his scale upon its pommel. Beneath his horse's feet
are dark-driving stratus clouds.
He is active, clever, subtle, fierce, delicate, courageous, skilful, but inclined to
domineer. Also to overvalue small things, unless well dignified.
If ill dignified, deceitful, tyrannical and crafty.
Rules from 20° ♉ {Taurus} to 20° ♊ {Gemini}.
🜂 {Fire} of 🜁 {Air}
King of the Sylphs and Sylphides.
XIV
THE QUEEN OF THE THRONES OF AIR
Queen of Swords
A GRACEFUL woman with wavy, curling hair, like a Queen seated upon a Throne and
crowned. Beneath the Throne are grey cumulus clouds. Her general attire is as that of the
Queen of Wands, but she wears as a crest a winged child's head. A drawn sword in one hand,
and in the other a large, bearded, newly severed head of a man.
Intensely perceptive, keen observation, subtle, quick and confident: often persevering,
accurate in superficial things, graceful, fond of dancing and balancing.
If ill dignified, cruel, sly, deceitful, unreliable, though with a good exterior.
Rules from 20° ♍ {Virgo} to 20° ♎ {Libra}.
🜄 {Water} of 🜁 {Air}
Queen of the Sylphs and Sylphides.
XV
THE PRINCE OF THE CHARIOT OF THE WINDS King of Swords
A WINGED King with Winged Crown, seated in a chariot drawn by Arch Fays, represented as
winged youths very slightly dressed, with butterfly wings: heads encircled by a fillet
with a pentagram thereon: and holding wands surmounted by pentagrams, the same butterfly
wings on their feet and fillets. General equipment as the King of Wands: but he bears as a
crest a winged angelic head with a pentagram on the brows. Beneath the chariot are grey
nimbus clouds. His hair long and waving in serpentine whirls, and whorl figures compose
the scales of his armour. A drawn sword in one hand; a sickle in the other. With the sword
he rules, with the sickle he slays.
Full of ideas and thoughts and designs, distrustful, suspicious, firm in friendship and
enmity; careful, observant, slow, over-cautious, symbolizes α {GR:Alpha} and Ω {GR:Omega}; he
slays as fast as he creates.
If ill dignified: harsh, malicious, plotting; obstinate, yet hesitating; unreliable.
Rules from 20° ♑ {Capricorn} to 20° ♒ {Aquarius}.
🜁 {Air} of 🜁 {Air}
Prince and Emperor of the Sylphs and Sylphides.
XVI
THE PRINCESS OF THE RUSHING WINDS: THE LOTUS OF THE PALACE OF AIR
Knave of Swords
AN AMAZON figure with waving hair, slighter than the Rose of the Palace of Fire. Her
attire is similar. The Feet seem springy, giving the idea of swiftness. Weight changing
from one foot to another and body swinging around. She is a mixture of Minerva and Diana:
her mantle resembles the AEgis of Minerva. She wears as a crest the head of the Medusa
with serpent hair. She holds a sword in one hand; and the other rests upon a small silver
altar with grey smoke (no fire) ascending from it. Beneath her feet are white clouds.
Wisdom, strength, acuteness; subtlety in material things: grace and dexterity.
If ill dignified, she is frivolous and cunning.
She rules a quadrant of the heavens around Kether.
🜃 {Earth} of 🜁 {Air}
Princess and Empress of the Sylphs and Sylphides.
Throne of the Ace of Wands.
XVII
THE LORD OF THE WIDE AND FERTILE LAND; THE KING OF THE SPIRITS OF EARTH
Knight of Pentacles
A DARK Winged Warrior with winged and crowned helmet: mounted on a light brown horse.
Equipment as the Knight of Wands.
The winged head of a stag or antelope as a crest. Beneath the horse's feet is fertile
land with ripened corn. In one hand he bears a sceptre surmounted by a hexagram: in the
other a Pentacle like that of the Zelator Adeptus Minor.
Unless very well dignified he is heavy, dull, and material. Laborious, clever, and
patient in material matters.
If ill dignified, he is avaricious, grasping, dull, jealous; not very courageous,
unless assisted by other symbols.
Rules from above 20° of ♌ {Leo} to 20° of ♍ {Virgo}.
🜂 {Fire} of 🜃 {Earth}
King of Gnomes.
XVIII
THE QUEEN OF THE THRONES OF EARTH
Queen of Pentacles
A WOMAN of beautiful face with dark hair; seated upon a throne, beneath which is dark
sandy earth. One side of her face is light, the other dark; and her symbolism is best
represented in profile. Her attire is similar to that of the Queen of Wands: but she
bears a winged goat's head as a crest. A goat is by her side. In one hand she bears a
sceptre surmounted by a cube, and in the other an orb of gold.
She is impetuous, kind; timid, rather charming; great-hearted; intelligent, melancholy;
truthful, yet of many moods.
If ill dignified she is undecided, capricious, changeable, foolish.
She rules from 20° ♐ {Sagittarius} to 20° ♑ {Capricorn}.
[ weh NOTE: typo here in text had ♍ {Virgo} instead of ♑ {Capricorn}. ]
🜄 {Water} of 🜃 {Earth}
The Queen of Gnomes.
XIX
THE PRINCE OF THE CHARIOT OF EARTH
King of Pentacles
A WINGED Kingly Figure seated in a chariot drawn by a bull. He bears as a crest the
symbol of the head of the winged bull. Beneath the chariot is land, with many flowers. In
the one hand he bears an orb of gold held downwards, and in the other a sceptre surmounted
by an orb and cross.
Increase of matter. Increases good or evil, solidifies; practically applies things.
Steady; reliable.
If ill dignified he is selfish, animal and material: stupid. In either case slow to
anger, but furious if roused.
Rules from 20° ♈ {Aries} to 20° ♉ {Taurus}.
🜁 {Air} of 🜃 {Earth}
Prince and Emperor of the Gnomes.
XX
PRINCESS OF THE ECHOING HILLS: ROSE OFTHE PALACE OF EARTH
Knave of Pentacles
A STRONG and beautiful Amazon figure with rich brown hair, standing on grass or
flowers. A grove of trees near her. Her form suggests Hebe, Ceres, and Proserpine. She
bears a winged ram's head as a crest: and wears a mantle of sheepskin. In one hand she
carries a sceptre with a circular disk: in the other a Pentacle similar to that of the Ace
of Pentacles.
She is generous, kind, diligent, benevolent, careful, courageous, persevering, pitiful.
If ill dignified she is wasteful and prodigal. She rules over one quadrant of the
heavens around the North Pole of the Ecliptic.
🜃 {Earth} of 🜃 {Earth}
Princess and Empress of the Gnomes.
Throne of the Ace of Pentacles.
XXI
THE LORD OF STRIFE
Five of Wands
TWO White Radiant Angelic Hands issuant per nubes dexter and sinister. They are clasped
together in the grip of the First Order, "i.e." the four fingers of each right
hand crooked into each other, the thumbs meeting above; and they hold, at the same time,
by their centres, five wands or torches which are similar unto the wands of a Zelator
Adeptus Minor. One wand is upright in the middle; the others cross each other. Flames leap
from the point of junction. Above the middle wand is the sign ♄ {Saturn}, and below is that of
♌ {Leo}: thus representing the Decante. Violent strife and boldness, rashness, cruelty,
violence, lust, desire, prodigality and generosity; depending on whether the card is well
or ill dignified.
Geburah of י {HB:Y} (Quarrelling and fighting).
This Decan hath its beginning from the Royal Star of ♌ {Leo}: and unto it are allotted the two great Angels of the Schemhamphorash (1.) והויה - VEHUIAH {HB:VHVYH} and (2.) יליאל - YELIEL {HB:YLYAL}.
[The proper meaning of the small cards is to be found by making thorough meditation and
harmony between these four symbols of each card. It will be seen that this is how the
meanings have been done; but the advanced student can go beyond this rude working.]
XXII
THE LORD OF VICTORY
Six of Wands
TWO hands in grip as the last, holding six wands crossed three and three. Flames issue
from the point of junction. Above and below are short wands with flames issuing,
surmounted respectively by the symbols of ♃ {Jupiter} and ♌ {Leo}, representing the Decan.
Victory after strife: Love: pleasure gained by labour: carefulness, sociability and
avoiding of strife, yet victory therein: also insolence, and pride of riches and success,
etc. The whole dependent on the dignity.
Tiphareth of י {HB:Y} (Gain).
Hereunto are allotted the great Angels (3.) סיטאל - SITAEL {HB:SYTAL} and (4.) עלמיה - AULEMIAH {HB:a'aLMYH} of the Schemhamphorash.
XXIII
THE LORD OF VALOUR
Seven of Wands
TWO hands holding by grip six wands, three crossed. A third hand issuing from a cloud
at the lower part of the card, holding an upright wand which passes between the others.
Flames leap from the point of junction. Above and below the central wand are the symbols
of ♂ {Mars} and ♌ {Leo}, representing the Decan.
Possible victory, depending on the energy and courage exercised; valour; opposition,
obstacles and difficulties, yet courage to meet them; quarrelling, ignorance, pretence,
and wrangling, and threatening; also victory in small and unimportant things: and
influence upon subordinates.
Netzach of י {HB:Y} (Opposition, yet courage).
Therein rule the two great Angels (5.) מהשיה - MAHASIAH {HB:MHShYH} and (6.) ללהאל - LEHAHEL {HB:LLHAL} of the Schemhamphorash.
XXIV
THE LORD OF PRUDENCE
Eight of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, issuing from a cloud, and grasping a branch of a rose
tree, with four white roses thereon, which touch only the four lowermost Pentacles. No
rosebuds even, but only leaves, touch the four uppermost disks. All the Pentacles
are similar to that of the Ace, but without the Maltese cross and wings. They are arranged
like the geomantic figure Populus. Above and below them are the symbols ☉ {Sun} and ♍ {Virgo} for
the Decan.
Over-careful in small things at the expense of great: "Penny wise and pound
foolish": gain of ready money in small sums; mean; avaricious; industrious;
cultivation of land; hoarding, lacking in enterprise.
Hod of ה {HB:H} (Skill: prudence: cunning).
Therein rule those mighty Angels (7.) אכאיה - ACHAIAH {HB:AKAYH} and (8.) כהתאל - KAHATAEL {HB:KHThAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XXV
THE LORD OF MATERIAL GAIN
Nine of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, holding a rose branch with nine white roses, each of
which touches a Pentacle. The Pentacles are arranged thus
: and there
are rosebuds on the branches as well as flowers. ♀ {Venus} and ♍ {Virgo} above and below.
Complete realization of material gain, good, riches; inheritance; covetous; treasuring
of goods; and sometimes theft and knavery. The whole according to dignity.
Yesod of ה {HB:H} (Inheritance, much increase of goods).
Herein those mighty Angels (9.) הזיאל - HETZIEL {HB:HZYAL} and (10.) אלדיה - ALADIAH {HB:ALDYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] have rule and dominion.
XXVI
THE LORD OF WEALTH
Ten of Pentacles
AN Angelic Hand, holding by the lower extremity a branch whose roses touch all the
Pentacles. No buds, however, are shewn. The symbols of ☿ {Mercury} and ♍ {Virgo}.
[ weh NOTE: Corrected, the typo was ♏ {Scorpio} are above and
below. ]
The Pentacles are thus arranged:
Completion of material gain and fortune; but nothing beyond: as it were, at the very
pinnacle of success. Old age, slothfulness; great wealth, yet sometimes loss in part;
heaviness; dullness of mind, yet clever and prosperous in money transactions.
Malkuth of ה {HB:H} (Riches and wealth).
Herein are (11.) לאויה - LAUVIAH {HB:LAVYH} and (12.) ההעיה - HAHAIAH {HB:HHa'aYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] set over this Decan as Angel Rulers.
XXVII
THE LORD OF PEACE RESTORED
Two of Swords or Pikes
Two crossed swords, like the air dagger of a Z.A.M., each held by a White Radiant
Angelic Hand. Upon the point where the two cross is a rose of five petals, emitting white
rays. At the top and bottom of the card are two small daggers, supporting respectively the
symbol {Crescent moon with horns upward} thus, and ♎ {Libra} representing the Decanate.
Contradictory characters in the same nature, strength through suffering; pleasure after
pain. Sacrifice and trouble, yet strength arising therefrom, symbolized by the position of
the rose, as though the pain itself had brought forth beauty. Arrangement, peace restored;
truce; truth and untruth; sorrow and sympathy. Aid to the weak; arrangement; justice,
unselfishness; also a tendency to repetition of affronts on being pardoned; injury when
meaning well; given to petitions; also a want of tact, and asking question of little
moment; talkative.
Chokmah of Vau. Quarrel made up, yet still some tension in relations: actions sometimes
selfish, sometimes unselfish.
Herein rule the Great Angels (13.) יזלאל - YETZELAEL {HB:YZLAL} and (14.) מבהאל - MEBAHEL {HB:MNHAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XXVIII
THE LORD OF SORROW
Three of Swords or Spears
THREE White Radiating Angelic Hands, issuing from clouds, and holding three swords
upright (as though the central sword had struck apart the two others, which were crossed
in the preceding symbol): the central sword cuts asunder the rose of five petals, which in
the previous symbol grew at the junction of the swords; its petals are falling, and no
white rays issue from it.
Above and below the central sword are the symbols of ♄ {Saturn} and ♎ {Libra}.
Disruption, interruption, separation, quarrelling; sowing of discord and strife,
mischief-making, sorrow and tears; yet mirth in Platonic pleasures; singing, faithfulness
in promises, honesty in money transactions, selfish and dissipated, yet sometimes
generous: deceitful in words and repetitions; the whole according to dignity.
Binah of ו {HB:V} (Unhappiness, sorrow, and tears).
Herein rule the Great Angels (15.) הריאל - HARIEL* {HB:HRYAL} and (16.) הקמיה - HAQOMIAH {HB:HQMYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: The text here had a typo: חזמיה - HAZMIYEH {HB:HZMYH}. Corrected to conform with Liber 777 and the verses 19 21 in Chapter 14 of Exodus that are the source of these seventy-two names. as Lords of the Decan. ]
XXIX
THE LORD OF REST FROM STRIFE
Four of Swords
TWO White Radiating Angelic Hands, each holding two swords; which four cross in the
centre. The rose of five petals with white radiations is reinstated on the point of their
intersection. Above and below, on the points of two small daggers, are ♃ {Jupiter}
[ weh NOTE: The ♃ {Jupiter} symbol was omitted in the original text and
♎ {Libra}, representing the Decanate. ]
Rest from sorrow; yet after and through it. Peace from and after war. Relaxation of
anxiety. Quietness, rest, ease and plenty, yet after struggle. Goods of this life;
abundance; modified by dignity as is usual.
Chesed of ו {HB:V} (Convalescence, recovery from sickness; change for the better).
Herein do (17.) לאויה - LAVAYAH {HB:LAVYH} and (18.) כליאל - CALIEL {HB:KLYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] bear rule.
XXX
THE LORD OF LOSS IN PLEASURE
Five of Cups or Chalices
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, holding lotuses or water-lilies, of which the flowers
are falling right and left. Leaves only, and no buds, surmount them. These lotus stems
ascend between the cups in the manner of a fountain, but no water flows therefrom; neither
is there water in any of the cups, which are somewhat of the shape of the magical
instrument of the Zelator Adeptus Minor.
Above and below are the symbols of ♂ {Mars} and ♏ {Scorpio} for the Decan.
Death, or end of pleasure: disappointment, sorrow and loss in those things from which
pleasure is expected. Sadness, treachery, deceit; ill-will, detraction; charity and
kindness ill requited; all kinds of anxieties and troubles from unsuspected and unexpected
sources.
Geburah of ה {HB:H} (Disappointment in love, marriage broken off, unkindness of a friend;
loss of friendship).
Herein rule (19.) לוויה - LEUVIAH {HB:LVVYH} and (20.) פהליה - PAHALIAH {HB:PHLYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XXXI
THE LORD OF PLEASURE
Six of Chalices
AN Angelic Hand, as before, holds a group of stems of water-lilies or lotuses, from
which six flowers bend, one over each cup. From these flowers a white glistening
water flows into the cups as from a fountain, but they are not yet full. Above and below
are ☉ {Sun} and ♏ {Scorpio} referring to the Decan.
Commencement of steady increase, gain and pleasure; but commencement only. Also
affront, detection, knowledge, and in some instances contention and strife arising from
unwarranted self-assertion and vanity. Sometimes thankless and presumptuous; sometimes
amiable and patient. According to dignity as usual.
Tiphareth of ה {HB:H} (Beginning of wish, happiness, success, or enjoyment).
Therein rule (21.) נלכאל - NELAKAEL* {HB:NLKAL} and (22.) יייאל - YEYAYEL
{HB:YYYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Another typo, corrected now to conform with 777 and Exodus. The error had כלכל - KOKAL {HB:KLKAL}.]
XXXII
THE LORD OF ILLUSIONARY SUCCESS
Seven of Chalices
THE seven cups are arranged as two descending triangles above a point: a hand, as
usual, holds lotus stems which arise from the central lower cup. The hand is above this
cup and below the middle one. With the exception of the central lower cup, each is
overhung by a lotus flower, but no water falls from these into any of the cups, which are
all quite empty. Above and below are the symbols of the Decanate ♀ {Venus} and ♏ {Scorpio}.
Possible victory, but neutralized by the supineness of the person: illusionary success,
deception in the moment of apparent victory. Lying, error, promises unfulfilled.
Drunkenness, wrath, vanity. Lust, fornication, violence against women, selfish
dissipation, deception in love and friendship. Often success gained, but not followed up.
Modified as usual by dignity.
Netzach of ה {HB:H} (Lying, promises unfulfilled; illusion, deception, error; slight
success at outset, not retained).
Herein the Angels (23.) מלהאל - MELAHEL {HB:MLHAL} and (24.) חהויה - CHAHOAH {HB:ChHVYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] rule.
XXXIII
THE LORD OF SWIFTNESS
Eight of Wands or Torches
FOUR White Radiating Angelic Hands (two proceeding from each side) issuant from clouds;
clasped in two pairs in the centre with the grip of the First Order. They hold eight
wands, crossed four with four. Flames issue from the point of junction. Surmounting the
small wands with flames issuing down them, and placed in the centre at the top and bottom
of the card respectively, are the symbols of ☿ {Mercury} and ♐ {Sagittarius} for the Decan.
Too much force applied too suddenly. Very rapid rush, but quickly passed and expended.
Violent, but not lasting. Swiftness, rapidity, courage, boldness, confidence, freedom,
warfare, violence; love of open air, field-sports, gardens and meadows. Generous, subtle,
eloquent, yet somewhat untrustworthy; rapacious, insolent, oppressive. Theft and robbery.
According to dignity.
Hod of י {HB:Y} (Hasty communications and messages; swiftness).
Therein rule the Angels (25.) נתהיה - NETHAHIAH* {HB:NThHYH} and (26.) האאיה - HAAYAH {HB:HAAYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Corrected from typo. Error was כטהיה - KATHIAH {HB:KThHYH}. ]
XXXIV
THE LORD OF GREAT STRENGTH
Nine of Wands or Torches
FOUR hands, as in the previous symbol, holding eight wands crossed four and four; but a
fifth hand at the foot of the card holds another wand upright, which traverses the point
of junction with the others: flames leap herefrom. Above and below are the symbols ☾ {Moon}
and ♐ {Sagittarius}.
Tremendous and steady force that cannot be shaken. Herculean strength, yet sometimes
scientifically applied. Great success, but with strife and energy. Victory, preceded by
apprehension and fear. Health good, and recovery not in doubt. Generous, questioning and
curious; fond of external appearances: intractable, obstinate.
Yesod of י {HB:Y} (Strength, power, health, recovery from sickness).
Herein rule the Angels (27.) ירתאל - YORETHAEL* {HB:YRThAL} and (28.) שאהיה - SHAAHIAH {HB:ShAHYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Corrected according to 777 from the typo ירהאל - YRAEL {HB:YRHAL}.]
XXXV
THE LORD OF OPPRESSION
Ten of Wands
FOUR hands holding eight wands crossed as before. A fifth hand holding two wands
upright, which traverses the junction of the others. Flames issuant. ♄ {Saturn} and
♐ {Sagittarius}.
Cruel and overbearing force and energy, but applied only to material and selfish
ends. Sometimes shows failure in a matter, and the opposition too strong to be controlled;
arising from the person's too great selfishness at the beginning. Ill-will, levity, lying,
malice, slander, envy, obstinacy; swiftness in evil and deceit, if ill dignified. Also
generosity, disinterestedness and self-sacrifice, when well dignified.
Malkuth of ו {HB:V} (Cruelty, malice, revenge, injustice).
Therein rule (29.) רייאל - REYIYEL {HB:RYYAL} and (30.) אומאל - OMAEL {HB:AVMAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XXXVI
THE LORD OF HARMONIOUS CHANGE
Two of Disks or Pentacles
TWO wheels, disks or pentacles, similar to that of the Ace. They are united by a
green-and-gold serpent, bound about them like a figure of 8. It holds its tail in its
mouth. A White Radiant Angelic Hand holds the centre of the whole. No roses enter into
this card. Above and below are the symbols of ♃ {Jupiter} and ♑ {Capricorn}. It is a revolving
symbol.
The harmony of change, alternation of gain and loss; weakness and strength;
everchanging occupation; wandering, discontented with any fixed condition of things; now
elated, then melancholy; industrious, yet unreliable; fortunate through prudence of
management, yet sometimes unaccountably foolish; alternatively talkative and suspicious.
Kind, yet wavering and inconsistent. Fortunate in journeying. Argumentative.
Chokmah of ה {HB:H} (Pleasant change, visit to friends).
Herein the Angels (31.) לכבאל - LEKABAEL {HB:LKBAL} and (32.) ושריה - VESHARIAH {HB:VShRYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] have rule.
XXXVII
THE LORD OF MATERIAL WORKS
Three of Pentacles
A WHITE-WINGED Angelic Hand, as before, holding a branch of a rose tree, of which two
white rosebuds touch and surmount the topmost Pentacle. The Pentacles are arranged in an
equilateral triangle. Above and below the symbols ♂ {Mars} and ♑ {Capricorn}.
Working and constructive force, building up, creation, erection; realization and
increase of material things; gain in commercial transactions, rank; increase of substance,
influence, cleverness in business, selfishness. Commencement of matters to be established
later. Narrow and prejudiced. Keen in matters of gain; sometimes given to seeking after
impossibilities.
Binah of ה {HB:H} (Business, paid employment, commercial transaction).
Herein are (33.) יחויה - YECHUYAH {HB:YChVYH} and (34.) להחיה - LEHACHIAH {HB:LHChYH} Angelic Rulers [of the Schemhamphorash].
XXXVIII
THE LORD OF EARTHLY POWER
Four of Pentacles
A HAND holding a branch of a rose tree, but without flowers or buds, save that in the
centre is one fully blown white rose. Pentacles are disposed as on the points of a square;
a rose in its centre. Symbols ☉ {Sun} and ♑ {Capricorn} above and below to represent the Decan.
Assured material gain: success, rank, dominion, earthy power, completed but leading to
nothing beyond. Prejudicial, covetous, suspicious, careful and orderly, but discontented.
Little enterprise or originality. According to dignity as usual.
Chesed of ה {HB:H} (Gain of money or influence: a present).
Herein do (35.) כוקיה - KAVEQIAH* {HB:KVQYH} and (36.) מנדאל - MENUDAEL {HB:MNDAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] bear rule.
[ *weh NOTE: Corrected according to 777 from typo of HB:KVZYH. Note that this is the second time Zain has been substituted for Qof by error. The MS may have been at fault in legibility of hand. ]
XXXIX
THE LORD OF DEFEAT
Five of Swords
TWO Rayed Angelic Hands each holding two swords nearly upright, but falling apart of
each other, right and left of the card. A third hand holds a sword upright in the centre
as though it had disunited them. The petals of the rose, which in the four had been
reinstated in the centre, are torn asunder and falling. Above and below are ♀ {Venus} and
♒ {Aquarius} for Decan.
Contest finished and decided against the person; failure, defeat, anxiety, trouble,
poverty, avarice, grieving after gain, laborious, unresting; loss and vileness of nature;
malicious, slanderous, lying, spiteful and tale-bearing. A busybody and separator of
friends, hating to see peace and love between others. Cruel, yet cowardly, thankless and
unreliable. Clever and quick in thought and speech. Feelings of pity easily roused, but
unenduring.
Geburah of ו {HB:V} (Defeat, loss, malice, spite, slander, evil-speaking).
Herein the Angels (37.) אניאל - ANIEL {HB:ANYAL} and (38.) חעמיה - CHAUMIAH {HB:Cha'aMYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] bear rule.
XL
THE LORD OF EARNED SUCCESS
Six of Swords
TWO hands, as before, each holding two swords which cross in the centre. Rose
re-established thereon. ☿ {Mercury} and ♒ {Aquarius} above and below, supported on the points of
two short daggers or swords.
Success after anxiety and trouble; self-esteem, beauty, conceit, but sometimes modesty
therewith; dominance, patience, labour, etc.
Tiphareth of ו {HB:V} (Labour, work, journey by water).
Ruled by the Great Angels (39.) רהעאל - REHAUEL* {HB:RHa'aAL} and (40.) ייזאל - YAYTZAEL {HB:YYVHL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Corrected according to 777 from the error האאל - HAAEL {HB:HHa'aAL}.]
XLI
THE LORD OF UNSTABLE EFFORT
Seven of Swords
TWO Angelic Radiating Hands as before, each holding three swords. A third hand holds up
a single sword in the centre. The points of all the swords "just touch" each
other, the central sword not altogether dividing them.
The Rose of the previous symbols of this suit is held up by the same hand which holds
the central sword: as if the victory were at its disposal. Symbols of ☾ {Moon} and ♒ {Aquarius}.
Partial success. Yielding when victory is within grasp, as if the last reserves
of strength were used up. Inclination to lose when on the point of gaining, through not
continuing the effort. Love of abundance, fascinated by display, given to compliments,
affronts and insolences, and to spy upon others. Inclined to betray confidences, not
always intentionally. Rather vacillatory and unreliable.
Netzach of ו {HB:V} (Journey by land: in character untrustworthy).
Herein rule the Great Angels (41.) הההאל - HAHAEL {HB:HHHAL} and (42.) מיכאל - MIKAEL {HB:Ma'aKAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XLII
THE LORD OF ABANDONED SUCCESS
Eight of Chalices
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, holding a group of stems of lotuses or water-lilies.
There are only two flowers shown, which bend over the two central cups, pouring into them
a white water which fills them and runs over into the three lowest, which later are not
yet filled The three uppermost are quite empty. At the top and bottom of the card are
symbols ♄ {Saturn} and ♓ {Pisces}.
Temporary success, but without further results. Thing thrown aside as soon as gained.
Not lasting, even in the matter in hand. Indolence in success. Journeying from place to
place. Misery and repining without cause. Seeking after riches. Instability.
Hod of ה {HB:H} (Success abandoned; decline of interest).
The Angels ruling are (43.) ווליה - VEVALIAH {HB:VVLYH} and (44.) ילהיה - YELAHIAH {HB:YLHYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XLIII
THE LORD OF MATERIAL HAPPINESS
Nine of Chalices
A WHITE Radiant Angelic Hand, issuing from a cloud holding lotus or water-lilies, one
flower of which overhangs each cup; from it a white water pours. Cups are arranged in
three rows of 3. ♃ {Jupiter} and ♓ {Pisces} above and below.
Complete and perfect realization of pleasure and happiness, almost perfect;
self-praise, vanity, conceit, much talking of self, yet kind and lovable, and may be
self-denying therewith. High-minded, not easily satisfied with small and limited ideas.
Apt to be maligned through too much self-assumption. A good and generous, but sometimes
foolish nature.
Yesod of ה {HB:H} (Complete success, pleasure and happiness, wishes fulfilled).
Therein rule the Angels (45.) סאליה - SEALIAH {HB:SALYH} and (46.) עריאל - AURIEL {HB:a'aRYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
XLIV
THE LORD OF PERFECTED SUCCESS
Ten of Cups or Chalices
HAND, as usual, holding bunch of water-lilies or lotuses, whose flowers pour a white
water into all the cups, which "all run over." The uppermost cup is held
sideways by a hand, and pours water into the left-hand upper cup. A single lotus flower
surmounts the top cup, and is the source of the water that fills it. Above and below the
symbols ♂ {Mars} and ♓ {Pisces}.
Permanent and lasting success and happiness, because inspired from above. Not so
sensual as "Lord of Material Happiness," yet almost more truly happy. Pleasure,
dissipation, debauchery, quietness, peacemaking. Kindness, pity, generosity, wantonness,
waste, etc., according to dignity.
Malkuth of ה {HB:H} (Matter settled: complete good fortune).
Herein the Great Angels (47.) עשליה - ASHALIAH {HB:a'aShLYH} and (48.) מיהאל - MIHAEL {HB:MYHAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] rule.
[This is not such a good card as stated. It represents boredom, and quarrelling arising
therefrom; disgust springing from too great luxury. In particular it represents
drug-habits, the sottish excess of pleasure and the revenge of nature.]
XLV
THE LORD OF DOMINION
Two of Wands
A WHITE Radiating Angelic hand, issuing from clouds, and grasping two crossed wands.
Flames issue from the point of junction. On two small wands above and below, with flames
of five issuing therefrom, are the symbols of ♂ {Mars} and ♈ {Aries} for the Decan.
Strength, domination, harmony of rule and of justice. Boldness, courage, fierceness,
shamelessness, revenge, resolution, generous, proud, sensitive, ambitious, refined,
restless, turbulent, sagacious withal, yet unforgiving and obstinate.
Chokmah of י {HB:Y} (Influence over others, authority, power, dominion).
Therein the Angels (49.) והואל - VAHOEL {HB:VHVAL} and (50.) דניאל - DANIEL* {HB:DNYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] bear rule.
[ *weh NOTE: Typo corrected from 777 and Exodus. The error was דכיאל - DAKIEL {HB:DKYAL}. ]
XLVI
THE LORD OF ESTABLISHED STRENGTH
Three of Wands
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand, as before, issuing from clouds and grasping three wands
in the centre (two crossed, the third upright). Flames issue from the point of junction.
Above and below are the symbols ☉ {Sun} and ♈ {Aries}.
Established force, strength, realization of hope. Completion of labour. Success after
struggle. Pride, nobility, wealth, power, conceit. Rude self-assumption and insolence.
Generosity, obstinacy, etc.
Binah of י {HB:Y} (Pride, arrogance, self-assertion).
Herein rule the Angels (51.) החשיה - HAHASHIAH {HB:HHShYH} and (52.) עממיה - AMEMIAH {HB:a'aMMYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[weh NOTE: This card is much better than as described.]
XLVII
THE LORD OF PERFECTED WORK
Four of Wands
TWO White Radiating Angelic Hands, as before, issuing from clouds right and left of the
card and clasped in the centre with the grip of the First Order, holding four wands or
torches crossed. Flames issue from the point of junction. Above and below are two small
flaming wands, with the symbols of ♀ {Venus} and ♈ {Aries} representing the Decan.
Perfection or completion of a thing built up with trouble and labour. Rest after
labour, subtlety, cleverness, beauty, mirth, success in completion. Reasoning faculty,
conclusions drawn from previous knowledge. Unreadiness, unreliable and unsteady through
over-anxiety and hurriedness of action. Graceful in manner, at times insincere, etc.
Chesed of י {HB:Y} (Settlement, arrangement, completion).
Herein are (53.) ננאאל - NUNAEL* {HB:NNAAL} and (54.) ניתאל - NUITHAEL** {HB:NYThHL} [of the Schemhamphorash] Angelic rulers.
[ *weh NOTE: Typo corrected as usual. Error was ככאאל - KUKAEL {HB:KKAAL}. ]
[ **weh NOTE: Typo corrected, had כיתאל - KYTHAEL {HB:KYThHL}. ]
XLVIII
THE LORD OF MATERIAL TROUBLE
Five of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiant Angelic Hand issuing from clouds, and holding a branch of the white
rose tree, but from which the roses are falling, and leaving no buds behind. Five
Pentacles similar to the Ace. Above and below are ☿ {Mercury} and ♉ {Taurus}.
Loss of money or position. Trouble about material things. Labour, toil, land
cultivation; building, knowledge and acuteness of earthly things, poverty, carefulness,
kindness; sometimes money regained after severe toil and labour. Unimaginative, harsh,
stern, determined, obstinate.
Geburah of ה {HB:H} (Loss of profession, loss of money, monetary anxiety).
Herein the angels (55.) מבהיה - MABAYAH {HB:MBHYH} and (56.) פויאל - POYEL* {HB:PNYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: The spelling left here in the text is wrong, but it has been allowed to stand in view of the fact that the error is in Crowley's Liber 777 as well. When the 72 names are constructed in the ancient manner from verses 19 through 21 of Exodus 14, written above each other right to left, left to right and ending with right to left again, the spelling is פּויאל - PUYEL {HB:PVYAL}. This latter must be considered the correct form, owing to the absolute nature of the derivation. rule. ]
XLIX
THE LORD OF MATERIAL SUCCESS
Six of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiant Angelic Hand holding a rose branch with white roses and buds, each of
which touches a Pentacle. Pentacles are arranged in two columns of three each
Above and below are the symbols ♉ {Taurus} and ☾ {Moon} of the Decan.
Success and gain in material undertakings. Power, influence, rank, nobility, rule over
the people. Fortunate, successful, liberal and just.
If ill dignified, may be purse-proud, insolent from excess, or prodigal.
Tiphareth of ה {HB:H} (Success in material things, prosperity in business).
Herein rule the Angels (57.) נממיה - NEMEMIAH* {HB:NMMYH} and (58.) יילאל - YEILAEL {HB:YYLAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Again wrong, corrected now in the text from 777 and Exodus. The error had כממיה - KEMEMIAH {HB:KMMYH}. Note that Kaph is being read for Nun quite often here. ]
L
THE LORD OF SUCCESS UNFULFILLED
Seven of Pentacles
A WHITE Radiating Angelic Hand issuing from a cloud, and holding a white rose branch.
Seven Pentacles arranged like the geomantic figure Rubeus. There are only five buds, which
overhang, but do not touch the five uppermost Pentacles. Above and below are the
Decan symbols, ♄ {Saturn} and ♉ {Taurus} respectively.
Promises of success unfulfilled. (Shewn, as it were, by the fact that the rosebuds do
not come to anything.) Loss of apparently promising fortune. Hopes deceived and crushed.
Disappointment, misery, slavery, necessity and baseness. A cultivator of land, and yet a
loser thereby. Sometimes it denotes slight and isolated gains with no fruits resulting
therefrom, and of no further account, though seeming to promise well.
Netzach of ה {HB:H} (Unprofitable speculations and employments; little gain for much
labour).
Therein (59.) הרחאל - HERACHEL {HB:HRChAL} and (60.) מצראל - MITZRAEL {HB:MTzRAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] are ruling Angels.
LI
THE LORD OF SHORTENED FORCE
Eight of Swords
FOUR White Radiant Angelic Hands issuing from clouds, each holding two swords, points
upwards; all the points touch near the top of the card. Hands issue, two at each bottom
angle of the card. The pose of the other sword symbols is re-established in the centre.
Above and below are the Decan symbols ♃ {Jupiter} and ♊ {Gemini}.
Too much force applied to small things: too much attention to detail at the expense of
the principal and more important points. When ill dignified, these qualities produce
malice, pettiness, and domineering characteristics. Patience in detail of study;
great care in some things, counterbalanced by equal disorder in others. Impulsive; equally
fond of giving or receiving money or presents; generous, clever, acute, selfish and
without strong feeling of affection. Admires wisdom, yet applies it to small and unworthy
objects.
Hod of ו {HB:V} (Narrow, restricted, petty, a prison).
Therein rule the Angels (61.) ומבאל - VAMABEL {HB:VMBAL} and (62.) יההאל - YEHAHEL {HB:YHHAL} [of the Schemhamphorash].
LII
THE LORD OF DESPAIR AND CRUELTY
Nine of Swords
FOUR Hands, as in the preceding figure, hold eight swords nearly upright, but with the
points falling away from each other. A fifth hand holds a ninth sword upright in the
centre, as if it had struck them asunder. No rose at all is shewn, as if it were not
merely cut asunder, but utterly destroyed. Above and below are the Decan symbols ♂ {Mars} and
♊ {Gemini}.
Despair, cruelty, pitilessness, malice, suffering, want, loss, misery. Burden,
oppression, labour, subtlety and craft, dishonesty, lying and slander.
Yet also obedience, faithfulness, patience, unselfishness, etc. According to dignity.
Yesod of ו {HB:V} (Illness, suffering, malice, cruelty, pain).
Therein do (63.) ענואל - ONUEL* {HB:a'aNVAL} and (64.) מחיאל - MACHIEL** {HB:MChYAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] bear rule.
[ *weh NOTE: Corrected to Liber 777 from error: עכואל - OKUEL {HB:a'aKVAL}. ]
[ **weh NOTE: Corrected again, error was: מיהאל - MIHAEL {HB:MYHAL}. ]
LIII
THE LORD OF RUIN
Ten of Swords
FOUR hands holding eight swords, as in the preceding symbol; the points falling away
from each other. Two hands hold two swords crossed in the centre, as though their junction
had disunited the others. No rose, flower or bud, is shewn. Above and below are ☉ {Sun} and
♊ {Gemini}, representing the Decan.
Almost a worse symbol than the Nine of Swords. Undisciplined, warring force, complete
disruption and failure. Ruin of all plans and projects. Disdain, insolence and
impertinence, yet mirth and jollity therewith. A marplot, loving to overthrow the
happiness of others; a repeater of things; given to much unprofitable speech, and of many
words. Yet clever, eloquent, etc., according to dignity.
Malkuth of ו {HB:V} (Ruin, death, defeat, disruption).
Herein the Angels (65.) דמביה - DAMABIAH {HB:DMBYH} and (66.) מנקאל - MENAQAEL* {HB:MNQAL} [of the Schemhamphorash] reign.
[ *weh NOTE: Error corrected to Liber 777 and Exodus; had מכקאל - MEKAQAEL {HB:MKQAL}.]
LIV
THE LORD OF LOVE
Two of Chalices
A WHITE Radiant Hand, issuant from the lower part of the card from a cloud, holds
lotuses. A lotus flower rises above water, which occupies the lower part of the card
rising above the hand. From this flower rises a stem, terminating near the top of the card
in another lotus, from which flows a sparkling white water, as from a fountain. Crossed on
the stem just beneath are two dolphins, Argent and Or, on to which the water falls, and
from which it pours in full streams, like jets of gold and silver, into two cups; which in
their turn overflow, flooding the lower part of the card. ♀ {Venus} and ♋ {Cancer} above and
below.
Harmony of masculine and feminine united. Harmony, pleasure, mirth, subtlety: but if
ill dignified — folly, dissipation, waste, silly actions.
Chokmah of ה {HB:H} (Marriage, love, pleasure).
Therein rule the Angels (67.) איעאל - EYAOEL {HB:AVa'aAL} and (68.) חבויה - CHEBOIAH* HB:ChBVYH [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ *weh NOTE: Wrong again! Corrected to 777 and Exodus from the error: הבויה - HEBOIAH {HB:HBVYH}. ]
LV
THE LORD OF ABUNDANCE
Three of Chalices
A WHITE Radiating Hand, as before, holds a group of lotuses or water-lilies, from which
two flowers rise on either side of, and overhanging the top cup; pouring into it the white
water. Flowers in the same way pour white water into the lower cups. All the cups
overflow; the topmost into the two others, and these upon the lower part of the card. Cups
are arranged in an erect equilateral triangle. ☿ {Mercury} and ♋ {Cancer} above and below.
Abundance, plenty, success, pleasure, sensuality, passive success, good luck and
fortune; love, gladness, kindness, liberality.
Binah of ה {HB:H} (Plenty, hospitality, eating and drinking, pleasure, dancing, new
clothes, merriment).
Therein the Angels (69.) ראהאל - REAHEL {HB:RAHAL} and (70.) יבמיה - YEBEMIAH {HB:YBMYH} [of the Schemhamphorash] are lords.
LVI
THE LORD OF BLENDED PLEASURE
Four of Chalices
FOUR cups: the two upper overflowing into the two lower, which do not overflow. An
Angelic Hand grasps a branch of lotus, from which ascends a stem bearing one flower at the
top of the card, from which the white water flows into the two upper cups. From the centre
two leaves pass right and left, making, as it were, a cross between the four cups. Above
and below are the symbols ☾ {Moon} and ♋ {Cancer} for the Decan.
Success or pleasure approaching their end. A stationary period in happiness, which may,
or may not, continue. It does not mean love and marriage so much as the previous symbol.
It is too passive a symbol to represent perfectly complete happiness. Swiftness, hunting
and pursuing. Acquisition by contention: injustice sometimes; some drawbacks to pleasure
implied.
Chesed of ה {HB:H} (Receiving pleasure or kindness from others, but some discomfort
therewith).
Therein rule the great Angels (71.) הייאל - HAIAIEL {HB:HYYAL} and (72.) מומיה - MOUMIAH {HB:MVMYH} [of the Schemhamphorash].
[ WEH NOTE: on this page {172} there is a table set to be read from the outer edge
downward to the center of the book, i.e. rotated 90° from the normal reading
orientation. Owing to screen limitations, this table has been re-rotated to normal, and
entries have been extended downward by increase of lines per entry. ]
| HEREIN ARE RESUMED THE ESPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE FOUR COURT CARDS OF
THE SUITS |
| SUITS |
CARDS |
CRESTS |
SYMBOLS |
HAIR |
EYES |
| Wands |
King |
Winged black horse's head |
Black horse, waving flames, club, scarlet cloak |
Red-gold |
Grey or hazel |
| Queen |
♌ {Leo}pard's head, winged |
Leopard, steady flames, wand with heavy head or end |
Red-gold |
Blue or brown |
| Prince |
Lion's head, winged |
Waved and salient flames, fire wand of Zelator Adept |
Yellow |
Blue-grey |
| Princess |
Tiger's head |
Tiger, leaping flames, gold altar, long club, largest at bottom |
Red-gold |
Blue |
| Cups |
King |
Peacock with opened fan |
White horse, crab issuing from cup, sea |
Fair |
Blue |
| Queen |
Ibis |
Ibis, crayfish issuing from cup, river |
Gold-brown |
Blue |
| Prince |
Eagle |
Scorpion, eagle; serpent issuing from cup, lake |
Brown |
Grey or brown |
| Princess |
Swan |
Dolphin lotus, sea with spray, turtle from cup |
Brown |
Blue or brown |
| Swords |
King |
Winged hexagram |
Winged brown horse, driving clouds, drawn sword |
Dark-brown |
Dark |
| Queen |
Winged child's head |
Head of man severed, cumulus clouds, drawn sword |
Light-brown |
Grey |
| Prince |
Winged Angel's head |
Arch fairies winged, whirling hair, nimbi, drawn sword and sickle |
Dark |
Dark |
| Princess |
Medusa's head |
Silver altar, smoke, clouds, drawn sword |
Light-brown |
Blue |
| Pentacles |
King |
Winged stag's head |
Light-brown horse, ripe cornland, sceptre with hexagram, pentacle as Zelator Adept |
Dark |
Dark |
| Queen |
Winged goat's head |
Barren land, fan, light one side only, sceptre with cube, orb of gold |
Dark |
Dark |
| Prince |
Winged bull's head |
Flowery land, bull, sceptre with orb and cross, orb held downwards |
Dark-brown |
Dark |
| Princess |
Winged ram's head |
Grass, flowers, grove of trees, sceptre with disk, pentacle like that in ace |
Rich brown |
Dark |
OF THE THIRTY-SIX DECANS
HERE follow the descriptions of the smaller cards of the four suits, thirty-six in
number, answering unto the thirty-six Decans of the Zodiac.
Commencing from the sign ♈ {Aries}, the Central Decans of each sign follow the order
of the Days of the Week. Thus:
Being thus the Four Threes, Sixes, and Nines.
The first and third Decans follow the same order: Sunday beginning the First Decan of
♍ {Virgo} and in the Third Decans of ♊ {Gemini} and ♑ {Capricorn}.
The planets govern respectively Decans with the following Titles:
Or in ♉ {Taurus} ♌ {Leo} ♎ {Libra} ♐ {Sagittarius} ♓ {Pisces} two wands: 1 each of the other suits.
Or in ♊ {Gemini} ♌ {Leo} ♎ {Libra} ♑ {Capricorn} ♓ {Pisces} two swords: 1 each of others.
Or in ♈ {Aries} ♊ {Gemini} ♌ {Leo} ♏ {Scorpio} ♑ {Capricorn} ♓ {Pisces} 2 W. 2 C.: 1 each of others.
One more Decan than the others.
Or in ♈ {Aries} ♊ {Gemini} ♍ {Virgo} ♏ {Scorpio} ♑ {Capricorn} 2 pentacles: 1 each of others.
Or in ♈ {Aries} ♋ {Cancer} ♍ {Virgo} ♏ {Scorpio} ♒ {Aquarius} 2 Cups: 1 each of others.
Or in ♉ {Taurus} ♋ {Cancer} ♍ {Virgo} ♐ {Sagittarius} ♒ {Aquarius} two Pentacles: 1 of each of the others.
Or in ♉ {Taurus} ♋ {Cancer} ♎ {Libra} ♐ {Sagittarius} ♒ {Aquarius} two Swords: 1 of each of the others.
There being thirty-six Decans and seven Planets, it follows that one of the latter must
rule over one more Decan than the others. This is the Planet ♂ {Mars}, to which are
allotted the last Decan of ♓ {Pisces}, and the first of ♈ {Aries}, because the long cold of the
winter requires a great energy to overcome it, and initiate spring.
And the beginning of the Decanates is from the royal Star of ♌ {Leo}, the great Star Cor Leonis: and therefore is the first Decan that of ♄ {Saturn} in ♌ {Leo}.
[ weh NOTE: the text here gives the symbol for Cauda Draconis by typo, corrected ]
Here follow the general meanings of the small cards of the suits, as classified under
the nine Sephiroth below Kether.
חכמה - Chokhmah {HB:ChKMH} : The Four Twos symbolize the Powers of the King and Queen just uniting and
initiating the Force; but before the Prince and Princess are thoroughly brought into
action. Therefore do they generally imply the initiation and fecundation of a thing.
בינה - Binah {HB:BYNH} : Realization of action owing to the Prince being produced. The central symbol on
each card. Action definitely commenced for good or evil.
חסד - Chesed {HB:ChSD} : Perfection, realization, completion: making a matter settled and fixed.
גבורה - Gevurah {HB:GBVRH} : Opposition, strife and struggle: war; obstacle to the thing in hand. Ultimate
success or failure is otherwise shewn.
תפארת - Tiferet {HB:ThPARTh} : Definite accomplishment. Thing carried out.
נצח - Netzach {HB:NTzCh} : Generally shew a force transcending the Material Plane: and is like unto a
Crown; which, indeed, is powerful, but requireth one capable of wearing it. The Sevens
then shew a possible result: which is dependent on the action then taken. They depend much
on the symbols that accompany them.
הוד - Hod {HB:HVD} : Solitary success: "i.e." success in the matter for the time being: but
not leading to much result apart from the thing itself.
יסוד - Yesod {י {HB:Y}SVD} : Very great fundamental force. Executive power, because they restore a firm
basis. Powerful for good or evil.
מלכות - Malkuth {HB:MLKVTh} : Fixed, culminated, complete Force, whether good or evil. The matter
thoroughly and definitely determined. Ultimating Force.
Follow the particular descriptions of each of the thirty-six cards: with full meanings.
Decan-cards are always modified by the other symbols with which they are in contact.
BRIEF MEANING OF TWENTY-TWO KEYS
0. IF the question refers to spiritual matters, the Fool means idea, thought,
spirituality, that which endeavours to transcend 🜃 {Earth}. But if question is material, it
means folly, stupidity, eccentricity, or even mania.
1. Skill, wisdom, adaptation, craft, cunning, or occult wisdom or power.
2. Change, alternation, increase and decrease, fluctuation; whether for good or evil
depends on the dignity.
3. Beauty, happiness, pleasure, success. But with very bad dignity it means luxury,
dissipation.
4. War, conquest, victory, strife, ambition.
5. Divine wisdom, manifestation, explanation, teaching, occult force voluntarily
invoked.
6. Inspiration (passive, mediumistic), motive power, action.
7. Triumph, victory, health (sometimes unstable).
8. Eternal justice. Strength and force, but arrested as in act of judgment. May mean
law, trial, etc.
9. Wisdom from on high. Active divine inspiration. Sometimes "unexpected
current."
10. Good fortune, happiness (within bounds). Intoxication of success.
11. Courage, strength, fortitude, power passing on to action. Obstinacy.
12. Enforced sacrifice, punishment, loss, fatal and not voluntary, suffering.
13. Time, age, transformation, change involuntary (as opposed to 18, ♓ {Pisces}). Or
death, destruction (only latter with special cards). [Specially, a sudden and quite
unexpected change.]
14. Combination of forces, realization, action (material effect, good or evil).
15. Materiality, material force, material temptation, obsession.
16. Ambition, fighting, war, courage, or destruction, danger, fall, ruin.
17. Hope, faith, unexpected help. Or dreaminess, deceived hope, etc.
18. Dissatisfaction, voluntary change. Error, lying, falsity, deception. This card is
very sensitive to dignity.
19. Glory, gain, riches. With "very" evil cards it means arrogance, display,
vanity.
20. Final decision, judgment, sentence, determination of a matter without appeal,
"on its plane."
21. The matter itself. Synthesis, world, kingdom. Usually denotes actual subject of
question, and therefore depends entirely on accompanying cards.
[This table is very unsatisfactory. Each card must be most carefully meditated, taking
all its correspondences, and a clear idea formed.]
Princes and Queens shew almost always actual men and women connected with the matter.
But the Kings (Knights) sometime represent coming or going of a matter, according as
they face.
The Princesses shew opinions, thoughts, ideas, either in harmony with or opposed to,
the subject.
| A Majority of Wands |
Energy, opposition, quarrel. |
| A Majority of Cups |
Pleasure, merriment. |
| A Majority of Swords |
Trouble, sadness, sickness, death. |
| A Majority of Pentacles |
Business, money, possessions. |
| A Majority of Keys |
Strong forces beyond the Querent's control. |
| A Majority of Court Cards |
Society, meetings of many persons. |
| A Majority of Aces |
Strength generally. Aces are always strong cards. |
| . |
| 4 Aces |
Great power and force. |
| 3 Aces |
Riches, success. |
| 4 Kings (Knights) |
Swiftness, rapidity. |
| 3 Kings (Knights) |
Unexpected meetings. Knights, in general, shew news. |
| 4 Queens |
Authority, influence. |
| 3 Queens |
Powerful friends. |
| 4 Princes |
Meetings with the great. |
| 3 Princes |
Rank and honour. |
| 4 Princesses |
New ideas or plans. |
| 3 Princesses |
Society of the young. |
| 4 Tens |
Anxiety, responsibility. |
| 3 Tens |
Buying and selling (commerce). |
| 4 Nines |
Added responsibilities. |
| 3 Nines |
Much correspondence. |
| 4 Eights |
Much news. |
| 3 Eights |
Much journeying. |
| 4 Sevens |
Disappointments. |
| 3 Sevens |
Treaties and compacts. |
| 4 Sixes |
Pleasure. |
| 3 Sixes |
Gain, success. |
| 4 Fives |
Order, regularity. |
| 3 Fives |
Quarrels, fights. |
| 4 Fours |
Rest, peace. |
| 3 Fours |
Industry. |
| 4 Threes |
Resolution, determination. |
| 3 Threes |
Deceit. |
| 4 Twos |
Conferences, conversations. |
| 3 Twos |
Reorganization, recommendation. |
OF THE DIGNITIES
A CARD is strong or weak, well dignified or ill dignified, according to the cards next
to it on either side.
Cards of the same suit on either side strengthen it greatly, for good or evil according
to their nature.
Cards of opposite natures on either side weaken it greatly, for either good or evil.
Swords are inimical to Pentacles.
Wands are inimical to Cups.
Swords are friendly with Cups and Wands.
Wands are friendly with Swords and Pentacles.
If a card fall between two other which are mutually contrary, it is not much affected
by either.
A METHOD OF DIVINATION BY THE TAROT
[This method is that given to students of the grade Adept Adeptus Minor in the R. R. et
A. C. But it has been revised and improved, while certain safeguards have been introduced
in order to make its abuse impossible. — O.M.]
1. THE Significator. Choose a card to represent the Querent, using your knowledge or
judgment of his character rather than dwelling on his physical characteristics.
2. Take the cards in your left hand. In the right hand hold the wand over them, and
say: I invoke thee, I A O, that thou wilt send H R U, the great Angel that is set over the
operations of this Secret Wisdom, to lay his hand invisibly upon these consecrated cards
of art, that thereby we may obtain true knowledge of hidden things, to the glory of thine
ineffable Name. Amen.
3. Hand the cards to Querent, and bid him think of the question attentively, and cut.
4. Take the cards as cut, and hold as for dealing.
First Operation
This shows the situation of the Querent at the time when he consults you.
1. The pack being in front of you, cut, and place the top half to the left.
2. Cut each pack again to the left.
3. These four stack represent I H V H, from right to left.
4. Find the Significator. It be in the י {HB:Y} pack, the question refers to work,
business, etc.; if in the of ה {HB:H} pack, to love, marriage, or pleasure; if in the ה {HB:H} pack,
to money, goods, and such purely material matters.
5. Tell the Querent what he has come for: if wrong, abandon the divination.
6. If right, spread out the pack containing the Significator, face upwards.
Count the cards from him, in the direction in which he faces.
The counting should include the card from which you count.
For Knights, Queens and Princes, count 4.
For Princesses, count 7.
For Aces, count 11.
For small cards, count according to the number.
For trumps, count 3 for the elemental trumps; 9 for the planetary trumps; 12 for the
Zodiacal trumps.
Make a "story" of these cards. This story is that of the beginning of the
affair.
7. Pair the cards on either side of the Significator, then those outside them, and so
on. Make another "story," which should fill in the details omitted in the first.
8. If this story is not quite accurate, do not be discouraged. Perhaps the Querent
himself does not know everything. But the main lines ought to be laid down firmly, with
correctness, or the divination should be abandoned.
Second Operation
Development of the Question
1. Shuffle, invoke suitably, and let Querent cut as before.
2. Deal cards into twelve stacks, for the twelve astrological houses of heaven.
3. Make up your mind in which stack you ought to find the Significator,
"e.g." in the seventh house if the question concerns marriage, and so on.
4. Examine this chosen stack. If the Significator is not there, try some cognate house.
On a second failure, abandon the divination.
5. Read the stack counting and pairing as before.
Third Operation
Further Development of the Question
1. Shuffle, etc., as before.
2. Deal cards into twelve stacks for the twelve signs of the Zodiac.
3. Divine the proper stack and proceed as before.
Fourth Operation
Penultimate Aspects of the Question
1. Shuffle, etc., as before.
2. Find the Significator: set him upon the table; let the thirty-six
cards following form a ring round him.
3. Count and pair as before.
[Note that the nature of each Decan is shewn by the small card
attributed to it, and by the symbols given in Liber DCCLXXVII, cols. 149-151.]
Fifth Operation
Final Result
1. Shuffle, etc., as before.
2. Deal into ten packs in the form of the Tree of Life.
3. Make up your mind where the Significator should be, as before; but
failure does not here necessarily imply that the divination has gone astray.
4. Count and pair as before.
[Note that one cannot tell at what part of the divination the present
time occurs. Usually Op. 1 seems to indicate the past history of the question; but not
always so. Experience will teach. Sometimes a new current of high help may show the moment
of consultation.
I may add that in material matters this method is extremely valuable. I
have been able to work out the most complex problems in minute detail. — O.M.]
