Tarot Study: Fool

[mudweed]

Here we start with the card by card discussion of the major arcana. I feel like we've started this same discussion a zillion times at MW, so sorry if this seems a bit redundant. :)

The first card in most decks is the Fool, card 0. Here I am attaching a picture of the card. We'll get into standard meanings later, for now just look at this card (either the one I've provided, or better, one from your own deck). Forget about the standard meanings of this card, to the best of your ability.

What symbols do you see? People, objects? How do the colors affect you? Does the card tell you a story, stir up emotions? Etc. In general, look at the imagery of the card, and tell us what that imagery means to you.

Remember, don't worry so much about the meaning at this point, I promise we'll get to that soon. ;)

[Flaire]

The first thing I noticed, both in the image that you posted, and the card that lies in front of me is the colours. Yellow is such a care-free, happy colour to me (even though I find it to be too bright sometimes! :T)

As I continue on with the colour scheme, I notice the blue in the mountains in the background. That rises feelings of foreboding in me. To dwell on the mountains, for a minute, they're not well-rounded, but rather sharp and jaggety, which enforces the feelings. They seem very cold and dense - definitely not something that someone would want to run into. I picture this card as an autum, mostly because of the snow on the mountain peaks!

Continuing on. The sun shines down on the Fool, as if blessing him. When I think of the sun, I think of children playing, and, going back to the colours, being care-free. The sun brings out the warmth of the card, when not dwelling on the mountains in the background.

The cliff is a bit of a warning, to me, although I don't usually dwell on it.

Whenever I see the Fool, I always hear the dog yapping, as if warning the Fool of where he's about to step. It's as if the dog is looking out for the Fool, as it is up on it's hind lets, almost as if it's going to jump at the Fool to get him out of the way of danger.

The Fool, himself, seems to be oblivious of where he's headed. The world is his playground, and he is invinsible. He can do anything, and nothing will hurt him. Not quite an adult and not quite a child, but old enough to be out on his own, and thinking his own thoughts of the world.

:)

[aftershocked]

Ok, I have to admit that I'm always drawn to people on cards, so I nearly always start by examining them. And using this deck, I really think that this man looks like Rocky from Rocky Horror Picture Show. And while this seems like an odd connection, I think that it kinda makes sense, even though these drawings were probably done before the movie was made. Rocky, in the movie, was a brand new human... innocent, trusting, following.. much like a puppy, the Fool's companion here. Also, the Fool's posture here also intrigues me.. he looks like he's dancing or twirling. Kind of reminds me of one of those people we all know, that flow through life, making decisions without concern for the consequences.

The blue also seems menacing to me.. although for some reason, instead of mountain tops it looks like a wave, coming to consume the fool. The yellow in this card does remind me of the sun; bright, fun playful, but dangerous in large doses (a warning to watch how often you 'play the fool').

I like the white rose here..reminds me of his innocence. It helps me remember that even if the fool seems a little naieve, it's simply because he's at the beginning of his journey, and he really has no knowledge of direction yet. And now, the cliff, the one part of the card I don't have so much experience with (on my deck, the Fool is alread over the cliff) I think it's a warning of going in over your head while being like the fool- new, innocent, and naieve.

[Romani Vixen]

I'm going to be focusing on my deck, Tarot of the Old Path (as this is the one I need to get to know better). About half way down on this page there's an immage of the Fool: http://www.tarotwisdomreadings.com/TarotDecks/OldPath.html

I see all the greens. And the blue of the sky. Both seem... refreshing. The child seems to be innocence. But she's reaching for the fire, showing carelessness on the part of the mother and niavety on the part of the baby. The Fool's path has many options, and some look dangerous. Also... the clouds are comming in... or going out... not sure which.

[Dryad's Wyrd]

I was just given a new deck so I will take this time to get aquainted with it. I'm using The Witches Tarot cards. :colorful:
This picture also has the lush green and the dark forboding mountains but in this card the fool isn't really childlike in apprearance.....he seems older. He has a piece of paper or parchament and he seems to be paying more attention to the paper than to the cliff that he is about to step off. It almost seems like the false path that he has taken is a kind of unfulfilled promise or dream, because the road apprears lush and green, right up to and covering the edge of the cliff. This situation make me feel a sense of misleading or trickery and an unwillingness to follow directions.
The expression on the Fool's face is of complete peace, serenity, and joy...it almost seems like the Fool doesn't care about the destination....he's just happy to be travelling and free. There is also the spark of adventure in his eye.
I have always had difficulty with this card because I seem to get mixed messages from it....heck! maybe it's what the card is supposed to mean for me! :lol:
Love & Light
D

[mudweed]

As usual, I'm using my World Spirit deck. :)

The colors in this don't speak to me so much... but the character does. She's walking along the ridgeline of the roof... playing with the birds. The birds carry flowers in their beaks. Her dog tugs at the tattered hem of her skirt. The whole scene has an air of absurdity to it... I mean, how did she get her dog up there anyway? In some ways you'd like to think she's just, well, a fool, but she is so carefree, and not too concerned with the world... it's a happy card, I think.

This card always reminds me of Anne of Green Gables. Remember the scene where Anne walks along the ridge of the roof on a dare? She falls and injures her ankle... undoubtedly, this woman on the roof is about to take a fall as well. But Anne tells Marilla: "Don't be very frightened Marilla. I was walking the ridgepole and I fell off. I expect I have injured my ankle. But, Marilla, I might have broken my neck. Let us look on the bright side of things." It's Anne's sense of adventure that I see in this card.

[Faery-Wings]

I am using Universal Waite. For me, the sun is such a warm, happy content color. It brings to mind those first warm days of spring, when you just want to go outside for a walk and enjoy the feelings of rebirth after a long cold winter. His posture is that of relaxation and contentment as well. He is carefree, kind of like when you play hooky on those warm days. The dog is friendly and his companion. I get the feeling of simplicity, freedom, worry free days in this card.

In viewing him as a traveler, he has a light load, no burdens beyond himself and his pup. (From a mom's point of view-- a very light load- no diaper bag! :p ) He is unware that his life is going to change. For me, it is that sense of happiness , and blessed ignorance, right before the ball drops. Anyone know what I mean? :)

The rose also points out an innocent feel to this card as well as the flowers on the tunic he wears.

[Faery-Wings]

I have a question for all of you...What do you think is in his knapsack (if he carries one in your card)?

I think he has a toothbrush and comb, a journal, some dog biscuits and a stone or crystal that makes him feel happy. And that is it. :)

[13thChylde]

I can't decide which deck to use!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Faery-Wings]

Use 'em all. :)

[Ben Trismegistus]

I'm with you guys. The Fool for me represents the innocent exuberance of the beginning of a journey. Who knows what lies ahead, but the Fool is thrilled about it regardless. Like mudweed says, he's untouchable - whatever happens can't hurt him. Even the inevitable step off the cliff will be a positive learning experience. And who can be unhappy with a dog?

My wife often says that I remind her of the Fool, although I'd much prefer to be the Magician - blissful ignorance isn't quite my speed.

[mudweed]

13thChylde: do the hidden folk... he's showing his bum! :lol:

[13thChylde]

Use 'em all. :)
hehe, I started to do that last night, but abandoned the notion when steam started to spew from my ears!

[Gigi]

First thing I noticed was the brightness of the color on the card. Next, I noticed the boy with his defiant face upward challenging his fate under the radiant sun. At first I assumed he could be running away from something. I see the dog as his pet who has taken the journey with him. But now I see he does not have to be running away from something, but is prepared for a journey.

On his hand, the boy holds a flower representing his delicate emotions. He has climbed the mountain, and is viewing the world before him, and enjoying the fresh air, feeling freedom to venture out into the unknown.

He is wearing clothes with pendants and birds encircling the pendant. His clothes represent the night, even though the card represents a bright sunny day. It can be that he has things to hide, but will venture out in pure daylight for the world to see him take his journey.

The card makes me feel like not thinking things step-by-step, but to take a leap of faith and move on.

[mudweed]

Hi Gigi! Thanks for that great post, and :welcome: to MW.

[Gigi]

I'm new to Tarot reading, and I really appreciate this class you started. I usually hold the cards and look at it, but I never really paid attention to every single detail. Your questions helped me do that, and I saw different meanings come into a window in my mind, and by answering your question, I saw a mini storyline inspired. Thank you! I hope to learn a lot here! Everyone's insight as to this card has been very helpful.

[Flaire]

I can't decide which deck to use!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:lol: I'm probably going to hop & jump about with which deck I use.
I want to use my Spiral for the Magician - that's just one stinkin' powerful card. :D

[Flaire]

I have a question for all of you...What do you think is in his knapsack (if he carries one in your card)?

I think he has a toothbrush and comb, a journal, some dog biscuits and a stone or crystal that makes him feel happy. And that is it. :)

I, too, think he's taking some necessities. He's not a child in the U-W or R-W, so I think he has some sense of responsibility (or at least hygene!)
I think he also might take along a game of some sort- maybe a deck of cards, or dice.

[mudweed]

OK, guys. Great responses. Now let's look at the "book" meanings of this card. There is no way to post an exhaustive list, but here are a few:
beginnings
innocence
naiveté
spontanaeity
folly
trust
risk-taking
"learned helplessness"
embarrassment
travel
danger
something unexpected
lack of inhibition
optimism

What do you think of these meanings? Do any of them seem wrong? What would you add to the list?

These meanings all refer to the upright card. If you use reversals, how would you change any of these meanings?

[Flaire]

Just because those in the chat have been pushing me to, I'm going to analyze my Spiral and Adrian decks.

Spiral

http://www.pixilated.org/fools/SpiralFool.jpg

To start off with the colours again, the background is a mixture of deep blue, green, brown and teal. The blue seems most like the night sky. It lightens up around the fool and the angel behind him, and around the chalice. The sun is in the background - however, if it's rising or setting, we don't know. Assuming it's setting, it's going to be a LONG night. If it's rising, the fool is just at the darkness before the dawn, so to speak.

The green and brown look like a bunch of trees, to me. So it's as if the fool is in a forest in this card, and the teal looks as if it's a river, or some other small body of water. The Fool sits kneels on the grassy shore (almost looks like a cliff!) on the opposite side of the body of water.

The Fool, himself, is on his knees, but keeps his eyes on the chalice. He wants it, but, I think, too, he is in awe of what it is. (Jewel-laden, silver, and quite regal-looking) It's as if he throws himself down at the chalice's power. It is something that he, who looks like a commoner, could not achieve. However, the angel, who stands behind the Fool, seems to be whispering something to him, possibly not to give up and keep going.

The Fool, in this card, is not distracted by the commotion in the background. There are birds flying, and I'm not sure if he has a dog or a cat (it looks like both!) which looks like it's going to attack the birds. If it's a dog, it's probably barking wildly at the life.

As for the other symbols (Tree of Life on the angel, fire, the "N" and the thing under it, that almost looks like the symbol for Uranus (I'm not too sure of what the latter 2 are), I have no idea what they symbolize. So, if anyone wants to take a stab at them, by all means.... :) )


Adrian Tarot

http://www.learntarot.com/adtiny.gif

Sorry for the tiny graphic. I'll get a better one when my digicam comes home. :)

This one's a bit...different. *smiles* The Fool still doesn't look where his body is going. This card, though, looks as if the Fool is dancing, or some other movement. Possibly, he doesn't know just where he's going.

(There's a "W" above his head... Anyone know what it is? :lol: )

[Ben Trismegistus]

What exactly is "learned helplessness"?

I think that "folly" and "embarrassment" don't fit what I've learned about the Fool. He is entirely guileless, incapable of embarrassment, and at the very beginning of his journey, so therefore it's impossible to refer to his actions as folly.

Enthusiasm and naivete, yes.

[mudweed]

What exactly is "learned helplessness"?

I think that "folly" and "embarrassment" don't fit what I've learned about the Fool. He is entirely guileless, incapable of embarrassment, and at the very beginning of his journey, so therefore it's impossible to refer to his actions as folly.


Ha! I wondered if someone would ask that!

Someone who displays learned helplessness may: mess up out of fear, or an unconscious desire to get others to help him out, or may put himself down first, to beat others to doing it. See what I mean?

Now as far as the folly thing goes, you don't see his hurtling toward the cliff as folly? (I don't either, but, just for the sake of argument... :D ) Or, as someone just starting out on a journey, aren't you liable to have fits of embarrassment at those moment when you can't find the way, or if you take a wrong turn? Embarrassment doesn't have to be bad... we can grow from it (or be scarred for the rest of our lives, as in my case...)

[Ben Trismegistus]

Someone who displays learned helplessness may: mess up out of fear, or an unconscious desire to get others to help him out, or may put himself down first, to beat others to doing it. See what I mean?

I'm with you. I don't think that fits either.

Now as far as the folly thing goes, you don't see his hurtling toward the cliff as folly? (I don't either, but, just for the sake of argument... :D )

Not in his case, because he's doing it with complete confidence and not a care in the world, secure in the idea that he'll come out ok regardless. Those sort of people always turn out ok.

Or, as someone just starting out on a journey, aren't you liable to have fits of embarrassment at those moment when you can't find the way, or if you take a wrong turn? Embarrassment doesn't have to be bad... we can grow from it (or be scarred for the rest of our lives, as in my case...)

I'm liable, yeah, but not the Fool. I don't think it's part of his make-up. I don't think that getting lost or taking the wrong turn would bother him in the least -- it's the journey that's important, not the destination.

[Dusk]

The "W" is a Hebrew letter (I think).

[nvrgnabok07]

I think the fool is a carefree person...But I also see naive(ness?)I mean, walking off a cliff? Yes, yellow is a very happy, up beat color...But maybe he's hiding behind it? Not too careful. Maybe it's saying, slow down...(like a trafic light)

[Rowan MoonDragon]

wow! I really like that traffic light idea! I never thought of it that way. I see a bit of carelessness in the card. He's about to walk off of the cliff so he needs to look where he's going.

[Rowan MoonDragon]

ok...I've decided to use my Arthurian Legend tarot deck instead. I dont know anything about this deck. I was trying to learn on the rider waite one first before I tried this one but I decided this was a great time to lear. I see a man going towards a castle. actually, he's just standing there looking at the castle. There's a rainbow over the castle and a dog by his side. There's alot of greenery around the castle. I see this card as meaning he's going towards new beginnings. He's been traveling as he has a stick with his personal belongings in it. I also see the rainbow as a new beginning as well. He could be kindda daydreaming as well.

[Faery-Wings]

I disagree with the "learned helplessness" as well. To me, that gives off a feeling of not caring, of giving up. I don't see that in this card at all. It is a card of freedom, and being ok with it, not a sense of throwing his hands in the air and saying, "Oh well."

[mudweed]

nvrgnabok, that was a great point about the yellow! Very interesting. :) And thanks everyone for the good discussion. Let's try to keep it up.

I have one last set of questions for this card, and then we'll be about ready to move on, unless anyone comes up with a burning question they want to ask everyone....

Look through your cards again...what cards might reinforce this one in a reading (i.e. has a similar meaning, or complements the Fool)? Which ones oppose it, or have an opposite meaning? It doesn't matter here if you know the meanings or not, although, if you do, by all means use that knowledge. If you don't go again by the gestalt of your cards... the meaning you intuit from them. There's not really any such thing as wrong.

Here's a tricky question (mostly for my own benefit... to see if you guys can help me out ;) ). What health associations does this card have? What illness would you associate it with? Can you think of any other real-life situations this card might refer to?

Remember, if you have your own questions, please ask them, so we can all learn. :)

[Faery-Wings]

Cards that might complent the Fool in a reading:
The Sun (joyous, traveling, innocence), Page of Pentacles (coloring of the cards, postures are similar- the Page is a more comtemplative Fool, to me)

Opposing:
6 of Swords (sorrowful, leaving past behind while traveling), 10 of Swords (endings), the Emperor (responsibility)

[Dryad's Wyrd]

QUOTE=chryssi1
Cards that might complent the Fool in a reading:
The Sun (joyous, traveling, innocence),

I definitly have to agree with you on the Sun Chryssi!
I would have to say that Ace of Wands (new idea, something not considered before, invention, a new way of looking at things) goes well with the Fool as well. Strength can work well with the Fool also because he must have inner strength to travel the path he is on, to go out traveling on his own (my card doesn't have a dog in it), to push past some of the prejudices that others (maybe the court cards :lol: ) may be harbouring against him, and spiritual strength to take the leap of faith that this card can imply. Even Death and the Hanged Man could go hand in hand with the Fool. Death implies an end to an old situation or journey and new beginnings ahead...passing from an old level of being (a court jester or stable boy, looking at the card) to a new level (a journeyman or a travelling bard...who knows, he could have a flute in his pack:) ). As far as the Hanged Man goes, it implies a need for direction and the Fool does seem to be wandering aimlessly along his path in the card, hence the possibility of stepping off the cliff.

An opposite could be the Seeker because he is plotting his path and knows (somewhat) what he is looking for...he is not leaving it all up to chance and blind faith. Judgement could also be opposite of the Fool. Judgement can mean using logic to determine your course and the Fool continues to wander...moving on whim.

I think that the Fool, dealing with health associations and real-life situations, could imply that if you currently have a chronic illness you might think about checking out alternative treatments...explore the options available to you...as well as continue the treatment that you are currently using. Open your mind and check out some really far out alternitive and maybe modify them to suit your reality.

Whew! Sorry about being so long winded all!
Love & Light
D

[Faery-Wings]

*nods* I think Justice is good- very rational, logic based....

[Flaire]

I disagree with the "learned helplessness" as well. To me, that gives off a feeling of not caring, of giving up. I don't see that in this card at all. It is a card of freedom, and being ok with it, not a sense of throwing his hands in the air and saying, "Oh well."

I agree. It seems to go againsed with spontanaeity, risk-taking and optimism.

[Flaire]

Look through your cards again...what cards might reinforce this one in a reading (i.e. has a similar meaning, or complements the Fool)?

I agree with those who said the Sun. It's such an optimstic card. :)
6 of Cups - the innocence of the children in the card.

With the 6 of Swords, to go along with travel, I'm not sure if it would compliment or oppose it. *frowns* It's sort of an inbetween card. It's such a dark card, but I see new beginnings coming from that too. (on a side note, I never noticed that there was a child in the boat before!)


Which ones oppose it, or have an opposite meaning?

5 of Cups: Pessimism and loss
8 of Swords: being bound (and the Devil)


Here's a tricky question (mostly for my own benefit... to see if you guys can help me out ;) ). What health associations does this card have? What illness would you associate it with? Can you think of any other real-life situations this card might refer to?

And I'll have to get back to you for this one.

[Rowan MoonDragon]

what cards might reinforce this one in a reading (i.e. has a similar meaning, or complements the Fool)?
Any of the Ace cards have similar meanings. They are all new beginnings in one form or another. The 6 of sword sas it means going to a new beginning and the 3 of spears (wands-possible travel)

Which ones oppose it, or have an opposite meaning?

The death card, 8 of swords, 10 of swords

What health associations does this card have? What illness would you associate it with? Can you think of any other real-life situations this card might refer to?

OOOO. this ones a toughy. I really dont know.

:)[/QUOTE]

[Faery-Wings]

At first, I thought the Death card would oppose the Fool. Then I thought that Death Card was a new beginning as well. External event seem to play into the Death card, IMO, while the Fool, it seems to be more internal. yet, for me, they both signal a "process" of sorts. Not being nit picky with you, Gaia, just expanding my own thoughts. :)

Health issues. That one is tough. I would possibly think of an impulse control disorder. And for some reason, hives or some type of itchy allergy thing (gotta love my medical jargon, heh!) Maybe the connotation of "itchy feet" and traveling?

[Xentor]

The fool.

I'm using Giger's tarot. The Fool here, is a pale man, sitting in a chair. His bald head is adorned by headphones. There's a woman in front of him, with her behind close to his face, and her shoed feet at his hips. Both wearing nothing but veils. The fool is eating a shot gun barrel, one hand on the trigger. In the background, there's a temple-like pyramid, with a high stone staircase. Dark clouds in the sky.

This character seems to have quite some options. Physical pleasure right in front of him, spiritual growth as symbolised by the pyramid within reach, music or other nice audiobilities ready to play through the headphones. All he has to do, is take action. He's also holding the shot gun, so taking action could mean making the wrong move and effectively ending his life.

But he's not interested in action. He's just sitting there. He's not even enjoying himself. He's throwing away all his chances. I bet his headphones are silent. He's not afraid, he's not happy, he's just there.

So what does this card do? It makes me both happy and sad. Happy because all the possibilities are within reach. Sad because the Fool doesn't do anything with it. It seems that he could easily take a wrong turn.

[Faery-Wings]

Xen- do you have a link to a picture of the card? Or the card scanned? Sounds interesting, yet very different.

[Xentor]

I don't have a digitised picture, but I think Google might turn it up. I don't really want to post it here as it's not only different but perhaps even shocking and too graphical. It's Giger. :)

[Kaylara]

Chryssi, I found a pic of it... Sending you a link.

[Xentor]

Giger Tarot Fool

beginnings - The fool is looking at a nude woman's behind, with the place where new life starts clearly visible to him (not to us, when looking at the card). The fool has an umbellical cord around his neck (as the accompanying book tells me, hadn't spotted that myself), signaling the birth of new life.
innocence - He doesn't seem to care about the physicality of the woman, he might explore that, or he might explore the gun up his mouth... he's looking for all experiences.
naiveté - Doesn't know that the gun will kill him - yet.
spontanaeity - Not quite. This fool is more sitting there, wondering what to do. Procrastinating.
folly - No action is taken, while all actions that could be taken could either present wonderful or horrible experiences.
trust - No matter which action will be taken, at this moment he trusts that it'll work out.
risk-taking - wanting to learn all, all that is nice and all that is bad.
"learned helplessness" - This fool seems to have no legs...
embarrassment - Can't see that in this card.
travel - There's a big temple-like pyramid. Although he has no legs, I'm sure he could embark on the staircase to its top (right into the dark clouds).
danger - Duh. Shot gun up his mouth. Dark ominous clouds in the skye.
something unexpected - No telling what lies beyond the top of the temple.
lack of inhibition - The two people in this card are merely clothed in veils. The fool looks like an old man, he doesn't really care anymore.
optimism - Uhm, no. More like careless.

Missing the idea of a beginning also being an end and vice versa. This fool is an old man, but he's got an umbellical cord around his neck - he's a new-born at the same time. He's looking at the bodily exit where new life enters the world, yet he's ready to shoot himself. Beginning and end at the same time.

These meanings all refer to the upright card. If you use reversals, how would you change any of these meanings?
Reversals?

[Gigi]

I feel this is a dark card. The clouds seem ominous and the pyramid seems foreboding. The fool is before temptation and uncertainty. He has decisions to make he does not want to, therefore the gun. Make a decision or die. He is backed up in a corner, without knowing what to do. I agree with you that I believe the headphone is not playing anything. The world is silent waiting for the fool’s action. His finger points to a life-threatening temptation before him, explaining the reason for the rifle. The mystery of the pyramid is a presentation of the mystery of whether he will pull the trigger or not.

(Also, on second thought regarding the pyramid, it could represent the past. A temptation in the past he gave into, causing him to reflect back on his mistakes before his death.)

[mudweed]

Reversals?

Where, when you lay the cards out in a reading, the card is upside down rather than right-side up.

[Xentor]

Where, when you lay the cards out in a reading, the card is upside down rather than right-side up.

Why would that make a difference?

[mudweed]

Traditionally, reversed cards are given a whole different set of meanings than their upright counterparts. A more modern interpretation might be that a reversed card points to a situation where the person being read for is feeling blocked, or may be experiencing the "shadow" or more negative aspects of the card. However, many readers choose not to use them, especially at first. Whether or not it makes a difference is ultimately up to you. Which is why I said "if" you use reversals. :)

[Xentor]

OK. Thank you. :)

[Faeawyn]

Alot of us don't read reversals...but there are an equal number who do. Some say it means the opposite of what the card would mean if it were upright....but other decks have an entirely different meaning attached to an upside down card.

[Rowan MoonDragon]

At first, I thought the Death card would oppose the Fool. Then I thought that Death Card was a new beginning as well. External event seem to play into the Death card, IMO, while the Fool, it seems to be more internal. yet, for me, they both signal a "process" of sorts. Not being nit picky with you, Gaia, just expanding my own thoughts. :)

Health issues. That one is tough. I would possibly think of an impulse control disorder. And for some reason, hives or some type of itchy allergy thing (gotta love my medical jargon, heh!) Maybe the connotation of "itchy feet" and traveling?


Oh I know your not. Actually the way I originally learned the death card was the end of something...be it a bad habit, a way of life, etc. so technically it really can be the opposite of the fool.

[Hamelyn]

I read reversals as being the more negative aspects of a card. For example, the seven of coins in my deck is a woman growing pentacles and running her hands over them. (Tarot of the Cat People). I read this as an ascension of practicality and material things, checking and doublechecking endeavors that are beginning to blossom. Reversed I would read this as a need to check what people have planted- things might be running rampant and out of control, like a job that's getting out of hand.

The best way I can explain endings being beginnings is slash and burn farming. You're probobly familiar with the concept but if not, it's a process by which the remainder of old growing things are cut apart and then burned to get rid of them, which also fertilizes the ground and helps the new plants gereminate. Or tearing up trees for a youth center. Things die but things grow.

[mudweed]

Since I am in large part a visual reader (by which I mean, I go as much by the story pictured on the card as by the meanings), I tend to just see the reversal as making different figures more prominent. Therefore, the meaning may change slightly. I'll just use the ace of cups as an example of what I mean. When upright, it looks like the cup is overflowing (overflowing with love, etc.). When reversed, it looks like the cup is being poured out. Very different connotations.

[13thChylde]

I'm using the Fool from the Tarot of Transformation deck....

A beautiful young woman looks back at the reader while in the foreground you see a multi-colored revolving five-point star~flower. She is dressed in a patchworked jester-design cloak of many colors and matching hat. She wears a mask, and has a soft smile.

Inside her is a small figure, who I see as the true Fool....the essence of this card. He is juggling five balls of white light.

I think this symbolizes that we all have this characteristic inside of us. Whether or not we choose to take off the mask of knowing, or pretending to know, is up to us. We all have masks that we hide behind, the Fool wants us to come out and play. To trust. To not be so wary and suspicious all the time.

Like in a lot of the Fool cards, this one also has a cliff which she is about to step off of....but to me, she looks like she knows it's up ahead, and is not afraid. The fall is part of her path and she accepts it willingly. Just look at that smile.

[Morr]

allrighty, im a bit late on this, but here goes!
I'm using my deck - "The Goddess Tarot" deck.

The Fool is portrayed by Goddess Tara, the card is called "Beginningts".
It shows a figure of the goddess wearing bright colored dress/shirt, golden jewls. She looks as if she's dancing in the fields/meadows. theres green hills in the background and bluish/snowy mountains in the far background of the picture. the souraounding frame of this card is that of a forest, lots of green trees, but on one side of the frame there is a hidden tigger, staring back at whoever is looking at the card. Sort of to indicate that with freedom, carelessness & new beginnings comes danger & there is need for caution.

[Faery-Wings]

If no one minds I am going to also use my Celtic Dragon deck. I haven't used it to read yet, but I love the pictures. I started doing this here at some point in the past, so this is what I came up with:
A young man stands at the crossroads- he needs to decide which road to take. The book states that these are spiritual crossroads. I tend to be a bit more, umm, general, Earthbound, maybe *struggles for right word* and I haven't used these cards to read much with. However, I feel that this young man is making decisions, his dragon guides/Higher Self are there waiting to see which direction he is going in. This fool seems to have a plan, more so than the Fool in Universal Waite. He is better prepared (scrolls tucked under his arm) and he is more intent in making this decision as oppsed to the UW fool who is not watching where he is going. Still, this Fool represents a journey, and a beginning.

[Gigi]

This card is definitely different than the Waite card. It shows me a dangerous forest behind the Fool. He looks determined and unafraid. He's moving forward with his action. He's prepared to meet his future both with courage (therefore the spear) and with knowledge (as symbolized with the scrolls he carries). There is sunshine outside of the forest and it shines through the trees onto The Fool, which gives me good feelings as to what he will find once he gets through the forest. I feel there are past fears that The Fool either conquered or was unaware of, but he will survive by venturing forth.

[mudweed]

I just wanted to add this "affirmation" that I found in Mary Greer's book (added one in to the standard meanings on the magician...)

"All possibilities are open to me as I boundlessly explore the here and now."

[The High Queen of Faerie]

in general the card has a lighthearted, carefree sort of feel to it... it almost embodies adolescence, really.

[Gigi]

Can you tell me what you feel she meant by that quote? The "here and now" is not what I see in this card, but the future. Something the fool is headed into as he moves forward. Maybe you can give me some insight. I'm new to this and appreciate everyone's insight on this.

[mudweed]

I don't really think it's in the fool's nature to plan ahead. He seems the sort to live for the moment, you know. He's setting off, joyfully, on a journey: toward a future, yes, but not one that is known to him. He moves forward purposefully, but not with a set destination in mind. He takes it as it comes, and to him, the journey is the point of this adventure.

See what I mean by that? The future is a big part of this card, but the message of the fool is to enjoy the journey as you move toward that future. That would be my answer to your question. Anyone else? :)

[Gigi]

okay, so when I'm reading the cards, I have to see from the point of view of the character (for ie, from the view of the Fool, from the view of the Magician, etc)? If so, I've been doing this wrong, and want to get on the right track right away, or I'll be a horrible reader. :-(

[mudweed]

okay, so when I'm reading the cards, I have to see from the point of view of the character (for ie, from the view of the Fool, from the view of the Magician, etc)? If so, I've been doing this wrong, and want to get on the right track right away, or I'll be a horrible reader. :-(

No, you don't have to see anything form any point of view other than your own. Use your intuition. :)

That being said, what I have offered here is the usual way of doing things. Usual is not always best, of course, but it may be a good place to start. ;)

You needen't see from the point of view of the fool, but do try to imagine the qualities that character embodies. That is, I think, the message intended by the artist. But each card has many layers of meaning, and which one is right may depend on the moment. It is easier to read the cards, I think, in a simple spread, than when they are regarded alone. Maybe you would like to try doing a three card spread every once in a while, to get the feel? The three cards can be anything you want... past/persent/future, body/mind/spirit, etc.

I doubt you'll be a horrible reader, because you ask wonderful questions.

[Faery-Wings]

I agree mudweed. IMO, the UW Fool isn't thinking of the furture. he knows it is there, but he thinks, "I'll get there when I get there, but for now, this journey is nice."
The Celtic Dragon Fool is a bit more aware and sees he has choices in his journey, but he obviously is unaware of where each path will lead him into the future.

[Gigi]

:floating:

[moonmorgan]

I think most everything I have thought about with regards to the fool has been mentioned. Nobody mentioned what he is wearing in the RW or W deck and I can't tell what it is or if it's important.

As for what is in the knapsack, since that everyone is past this card, I will share what Mastering the Tarot by Eden Gray says.

Over his shoulder he carries the Wand of Will, from which hangs a wallet containing the four elements Fire, Water, Air and Earth, which he will use on his journey.

[mudweed]

As for what is in the knapsack, since that everyone is past this card, I will share what Mastering the Tarot by Eden Gray says.

Over his shoulder he carries the Wand of Will, from which hangs a wallet containing the four elements Fire, Water, Air and Earth, which he will use on his journey.

That's certainly an interesting idea. It just doesn't really seem to fit in with the spirit of the fool card, to me, though. It implies that the fool knew, and cared, that he would need these things on the journey, and that he had the foresight to take them with him. It seems to me that if these things are in his bag, they got there through luck, and part of his journey will be finding out that he actually has had all the tools he needed with him all along. :)

[moonmorgan]

That's certainly an interesting idea.

Well, I would think he is a fool because he's not looking where he's going, not necessarily because he went out without thinking of what he might need on a journey. It could be the way I said and it could be the way you said. Who knows.

[mudweed]

Or both. :)

[AquariusWolf]

Strange. I was reading Tarot: Plain and Simple by Anthony Louis. In his book, he claims the Fool could symbolize homosexuality or bisexuality. Does anyone find this odd?

[Gigi]

Strange. I was reading Tarot: Plain and Simple by Anthony Louis. In his book, he claims the Fool could symbolize homosexuality or bisexuality. Does anyone find this odd?

I don't know. What do you mean by that?

For example, people who "come out" or "come out of the closet" are taking a path that most are unwilling to take, which the Fool card represent, or so I think. The card may represent their journey of discoveries and new ideas, or their willingness to travel on a road that many may consider a "rocky road". But to symbolize homosexuality and bisexuality directly I just don't think that's what this card is all about. It's the journey taken. Do you agree, or did I misunderstand the above post?

[Eowyn]

Im taking my point of view from my tarot deck... (The Tarots of the Sphynx)

The Fool is young... really young. On this card he's about my age, but younger (that sounded wierd). He's about maybe 12.... And he has a cat scratching his heel. He is waving his hands thinking that will make it go away. He's naive... he's learning something I guess because there are epytian signs by the side of him... And I think he's making some sort of beginning to a journey... Because he's about to go outside.

Colorless card really. not one of my favourites.

[mudweed]

But to symbolize homosexuality and bisexuality directly I just don't think that's what this card is all about. It's the journey taken. Do you agree, or did I misunderstand the above post?

I think it would have to be taken within the context of the reading, of course. Sounds plausible to me, and I liked your explanation Gigi.

[AquariusWolf]

I don't know. What do you mean by that?

For example, people who "come out" or "come out of the closet" are taking a path that most are unwilling to take, which the Fool card represent, or so I think. The card may represent their journey of discoveries and new ideas, or their willingness to travel on a road that many may consider a "rocky road". But to symbolize homosexuality and bisexuality directly I just don't think that's what this card is all about. It's the journey taken. Do you agree, or did I misunderstand the above post?

Yes, I agree with you. I wasn't sure what the author meant by it because I never thought of the Fool in this regards. I like your explanation! Thanks!

[Gigi]

Yes, I agree with you. I wasn't sure what the author meant by it because I never thought of the Fool in this regards. I like your explanation! Thanks!

Anytime, AquariusWolf/Mudweed!! :ballonsmi

[PhoenixCOF]

The deck I'm currently using is the Dragon Tarot. I was drawn to it because of the detail in the pictures, though I'm finding lately that I'm hankering for a new deck featuring people - I have a little trouble with facial expressions on dragons lol.

Anyways: The Fool - In my deck, he stands on a pattern of black and white squares that could be taken either as a path or as a stage. I usually take it to mean both: the beginning of a journey, plus 'life is stage' - in our lives we wear many different 'hats' and, like the fool, we choose the direction we take and the mode of transport... if that makes any kind of sense, not explaining myself real well here. I guess that the fool always gives me a feeling of endless possibilities and a clean slate - he can go where ever he chooses, be whoever he chooses, he is only limited by self-imposed boundaries.

Above the Fool are suspended the four aces of the four suits, which to me indicates equal potential in all areas as well as new beginnings in any aspect of life. He holds a dice (die? bad grammar...) and it's partner lies at his feet, indicating (to me) both a willingness to take chances and also the fact that even the Fool (the 'Divine Child' beginning his journey) is at the mercy of chance. Behind him are columns depicting the night sky, which to me indicates his divine origin and connection to Spirit.

Basic version: A new beginning in an aspect of life, with the only limitations being set by what we ourselves can conceive of as possible :-). I don't really see the Fool as foolish - if he is, it's because of naivette and lack of experience rather than innate stupidity.

'Learned helplessness'... well, maybe in the context that this may be the first time he's had to fend for himself... we're only prepared because we know the consequences of not being prepared, at this stage, the Fool is new to the world and has no concept of fear, loss, sacrifice, pain... he's oblivious, not because of lack of concern, but because he doesn't realise there's anything to BE concerned about.

Homosexuality? Hmmm... never come across that thought before. Maybe because a man in bright shirts and tights can be conceived as effeminite (a 'fop', as they used to say)? Maybe because of the way Fools were perceived - not very warlike for their time, I guess. It's an interesting interpretation...

Cheers,

Phoenix

PS. I'm one of the ones that don't do reversals - I read the card by context and proximity... on a not so bright note, the fool might mean an unwillingness to take chances resulting in lack of growth, or even taking too many chances... an unwillingness to grow up (even the Fool learned and matured with experience and didn't stay the Fool forever) etc... I won't give correspondences cos this post is already waaaay to long lol.

[Faery-Wings]

The deck I'm currently using is the Dragon Tarot. I was drawn to it because of the detail in the pictures, though I'm finding lately that I'm hankering for a new deck featuring people - I have a little trouble with facial expressions on dragons lol.


If you don't mind my 2 cents, you might want to checkout the Celtic Dragon deck. It has dragons and people! I am working on learning that one with these classes. The cards are gorgeous. And I find that the symbolism is quite easy to read.

The Dragon deck is beautiful as well. But it does seem harder to intuitively "get."

[PhoenixCOF]

If you don't mind my 2 cents, you might want to checkout the Celtic Dragon deck. It has dragons and people! I am working on learning that one with these classes. The cards are gorgeous. And I find that the symbolism is quite easy to read.

The Dragon deck is beautiful as well. But it does seem harder to intuitively "get."

No argument there! Lol... I love the pics but I have to admit that it took me quite a while to get a feel for the cards - I've been working with them for almost a year now and some still elude me. The downside to detailed pictures can be complex symbolism... hard for a beginner :-).

Mind you, I'm starting to think I'll still feel like a beginner ten years from now lol.

Phoenix :-)

[mudweed]

Well, wanted to add here that you guys rock. I'm learning a lot from y'all. :yourock:

Now, since I listed The Idiot's Guide's archetypes for the Empress, I'm adding them for the others, too. (I may or may not agree, but they are cute)
*Toto
*R2D2 and C3PO
*Charlie Brown (when Lucy's holding the football)
*"A Babe in the Woods"

C3PO I can see, but what's "A Babe in the Woods?" :huh:

[Shatril]

The Fool to me is the proverbial carefree, naive, trusting soul. He is obviously following his instincts without a care of where he is going. In this card the fact that he is stepping of a ledge, and in my opinion ignoring the warnings being given by the dog, indicates the principal of perfect trust. He is the perfect innocent, has never been hurt, therefore has perfect trust. He trusts that if he steps off that ledge that one of two things will happen. He will be given a soft place to land, or he will fly. It is complete trust and naivete that actually protect him.

When this card shows up in a tarot reading for me, it usually means that I need to take a leap of faith and know that I will either fly or land in a soft spot. However, I need to take that leap of faith with perfect trust the I will either be given a soft place to land or fly. If I don't have the perfect trust, and take the leap :help:

This is a highly spiritual card for me and I need to treat it as such.

Shatril :sunny:

[Aidron]

It figures that just when I'm taking up an in-depth study of the tarot that there is a class like this going on and I don't even know about it. Pft, I need to pay better attention.

I'm using the Celtic Dragon Tarot, and The Fool in my deck evokes a general sensation of wonderment, possibilities, and (self) discoveries.

A young, blonde man wearing a predominantly white outfit with hints of red and blue holding a wand topped with a crystal in his left hand and two pieces of parchment rolled up under his right arm stands at a four-way path intersection. He alone reinforces the idea of beginnings, fresh perspectives, and the untainted seeker we all enter this world as. White and blonde hair both symbolize purity and youthfulness (purity and youthfulness of soul in this case). The red on his outfit symbolizes vitality to me. He is full of energy and dedicated to the journey he is beginning. The blue represents his unconscious mind, of which there is very little blue on his outfit, so he has not yet learned to listen to his own inner-voice. The wand signifies mental activity and direction of will. The parchments only support this in my eyes. He has a great deal of knowledge and the desire to set out on his quest, he just doesn't yet posess the wisdom to know which of the fourth paths he should take.

Just next to him are three small dragons, one blue, one red, and one yellow all flying and seeming to want to direct him, but not down a specific path. I imagine them telling him of all the wonders the world has to offer, and that each path will contain its own unique challenges and joys. I can see them in my mind's eye telling him to not analyze the decision before him about which path to take too much, and to simply listen to his heart and he will know what path he should take at this time.

Behind the young man and the small dragons are trees. Ancient and tall, signifying the wisdom that The Fool could posess once he comes to the end of his journey. Within them an owl sets perched out on a branch, along with two gigantic dragons hiding between the trees observing him. They seem to be waiting there to see if the young man will listen to his intuition and head down the right path, or not trust himself and head down the wrong one. All three symbolize, much like the ancient trees, ancient wisdom, the kind The Fool could posess one day. Roots lying on top of the ground seem to reach out to the young man, a reminder that while we may feel alone, help and guidance is never really that far from us if we simply look for it (being roots and on the ground, few would notice them unless they really looked).

Upon the ground are numerous ferns, which immediately remind me of rain and how it affects us. Too much of it will saturate us and cause problems, and too little will leave us thirsty, dehydrated, and too tired to go on when what we most need is a drink of water to revive us. This in turn symbolizes how much analyzing things too much can hinder us, and not providing some thought to what lies ahead of us will leave us unmotivated, unprepared, and disenchanted.

Within the ferns are various rocks with spirals on them that go in a widdershins direction from the center out, and amongst the rocks a snake, symbolic of new beginnings and the transformation we undergo before each new journey.


Key words & phrases I associate with The Fool:

Beginnings
Fresh perspective(s)
Expanding your horizons
Exploration
Discovery/Self-Discovery
Listening to your inner-voice
Guidance
A journey
Dawn of a new time in life
A lack of humbleness/humility
Recklessness
Choices & indecision
Curiosity
Excitement & wonderment
Foolishness
Unwillingness to grow & explore
Unnecessary risks
Thoughtless behavior