So my Sabbat box for Imbolc arrived from WritualPlanner.com, and in the workbook that came with it (a great little booklet with lots of info about the Sabbat, rituals you can do etc.) there was this tarot spread I thought I’d take a stab at. I’ve added the descriptions of each card from Decoding the Cards by Writual Planner, and then I added my own thoughts on each one.
- In first position, answering the question: Returning Light: Where is light and inspiration returning to my life?
I drew the Seven of Pentacles.
Decoding the Cards says:
Keywords: Investment | patience | long-term view
The Seven of Pentacles is a card that speaks of hard work and the results in can bring. It symbolizes the optimism associated with seeing one’s efforts come to fruition and become tangible. This card can be seen as a reminder that when we put in the effort, tend to our tasks and are patient, we will eventually reap the rewards of our hard work. The Seven of Pentacles reminds us to trust that we are on the right path and enjoy the journey.
My thoughts: I’m on the right track. My choice to follow this path was the right one and as I continue to put time and effort into learning all I can, I will be successful in connecting with my higher self, intuition and the universe.
- Second, answering the question: Nurturing the Light: How can I cultivate and grow this energy?
I drew the Queen of Swords Reversed.
Decoding the Cards says:
Keywords: overly emotional | bitchy | cold-hearted
When the reversed Queen of Swords appears in a reading, it suggests that you are not being logical about a certain situation but rather allowing your emotions to dictate your decisions. The card could indicate that you are too involved in the outcome and cannot view things objectively.
You may also be allowing others to influence your choices due to a lack of confidence. It is essential to take a step back, analyze the facts objectively and trust your judgement before taking action. The Queen of Swords Reversed suggests that you need to find the balance between intellect and emotion to make wise decisions.
The Queen of Swords Reversed can be cold-hearted and bitchy. She sometimes lacks compassion for others and can come across as narrow-minded and mean.
My thoughts: I’m still not sure how to interpret these to answer the particular questions I’m asking. My question was “how can I cultivate and grow this energy?” and this seems like a very negative card to draw in answer to that question. It’s almost as if the cards are telling me “Don’t be cold-hearted and bitchy like the Queen of Swords”. It’s almost like this card could be the Lingering Shadow or challenge in the next question but perhaps, rather than directly answer my question "“what can I do?” the cards are pointing out things to beware of. - and that’s a learning process for me in reading the tarot – I tend to take them very literally.
So, answering my question, to cultivate and grow this energy, I should find a balance between my intellect and emotions when making decisions and I should analyze the facts before taking action, and always try to show compassion and care for others along the way.
- Third, answering the question: Lingering Shadow: What challenge or unresolved issue is still present?
I drew the Page of Wands.
Decoding the Cards says:
Keywords: inspiration | discovery | new ideas | potential
The Page of Wands represents enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, explore and experience all life offers. They are enthusiastic beginners - they may not have an exact plan, but they are filled with a passion for what could be.
The Page of Wands is curious by nature and will jump into any endeavor as a way to gain wisdom and knowledge. They tend to dream big are are always filled with inspiring new ideas. However they must be careful not to get too lost in their dreams, as it can distract them from what is important - applying their newfound knowledge to the real world.
My Thoughts: I’m filled with eagerness and enthusiasm, but I’m a complete beginner. I’ve only been practicing since November. It would be very easy for me to lose track of the path.
- Fourth, answering the question: Healing the Shadow: How can I address and heal this Shadow?
I drew The Five of Pentacles Reversed.
Decoding the Cards says:
Keywords: recovery from loss
The Five of Pentacles Reversed is a sign that the difficult financial or career struggles you have been facing are coming to an end. After a prolonged period in a tight spot, things are finally beginning to look up for you. It’s time to take some of the pressure off and start celebrating all your hard work.
The reversed Five of Pentacles can also indicate that you need to step back and reevaluate your priorities. You may be putting too much emphasis on financial stability and material wealth, neglecting your mental and spiritual well-being in the process. Stop chasing money for its own sake and instead focus on finding happiness within yourself.
My Thoughts: Again, very easy for me to take this literally, especially since I did have considerable financial difficulties in times gone by - bankruptcies, divorces, (thankfully now resolved). But perhaps I just need to take the focus off material things now and heal the shadow by concentrating on my spiritual well-being and finding happiness within myself.
- Finally, answering the question: Balancing the Two: How can I harmonize my light and shadow to move forward?
I drew the Knight of Swords Reversed.
Decoding the Cards says:
Keywords: unfocused | restive | impulsive
The reversed Knight of Swords can be incredibly restless, frustrated, and impatient. He is brimming with energy, but can’t find an outlet to channel all that excitement. The timing may be wrong, or the resources necessary for his endeavors may not be available.
When the Knight of Swords appears reversed, it may be a sign to take caution and move slowly. Impulsive decisions are not wise and should not be taken lightly. It is important to think things through before making any decision or taking any action.
The reversed Knight of Swords can also denote bluntness or rudeness in communication.
My thoughts: This is another of those “don’t do as I do, do as I say”, sorts of cards. This is warning me not to rush and make impulsive decisions like the reversed Knight of Swords, but to focus on my spiritual well-being and think things through carefully instead of making rash decisions without considering the consequences.
This was interesting, and I sort of feel like I might be getting a feel for the cards, and how to interpret them (with the help of Decoding the Cards, which is a digital pdf I keep on my computer desktop)
I have a few comments to share that might help for those areas where you were a bit confused with the cards.