Lesson 2 - Assignment [Archive] - MysticWicks Online Pagan Community and Spiritual Sanctuary

~Elise~

January 3rd, 2005, 05:41 PM

Yippee--I can do part 1 NOW--

As part of the Society of Soothsayers, Seers and Sages I agreed to a Code of Ethics--so here they are--I've edited out the parts that don't apply to readers...so there will be gaps in the numbering:
1. Members of the Society of Soothsayers, Seers and Sages, (hereafter referred to as the Society), are expected to behave ethically and professionally at all times and refrain from making disparaging statements concerning other members. Evidence of serious misconduct by any member could result in revocation of membership & any privileges afforded thereof, without refund of any fees paid.
2. Members will neither attempt to usurp other members’ clientele nor claim exclusive rights to their own clientele.
3. Members will not engage in price fixing.

II. MEMBER/ CLIENT RELATIONS

1. Members are encouraged to make this Society Code of Ethics available to all clients.
2. Members will not claim to have exclusive powers to give or remove spells, curses or protection.

5. Members will not prey upon a client’s fears, depression or anxieties, but will give honest interpretation within their own capabilities and fields of study.
6. Members will not claim to be 100% accurate about a client’s past, present, or future, and will explain that the client’s future is shaped through choices and free will.
8. Return visits for services may be recommended but will not be solicited with undue pressure by members.
9. Members will not take advantage of the trust and vulnerability of the client for purposes of sexual, financial or other abuse.
10. Members will not attempt to make the client dependent upon the practitioner’s services.
11. Members will not discuss confidential information about their clients. If consultation is necessary, the client should remain anonymous. If identity is important, then prior consent from the client must be obtained.
III. MEMBER/ SOCIETY RELATIONS

1. Members will conduct themselves both morally and ethically so that the image of the Society will be enhanced.
2. Members are encouraged to increase their knowledge and skills by participating in seminars, continuing education programs, workshops and to become members of other professional organizations in their fields.
3. The Society does not favor any practitioners or any field of study over another, but will afford equal treatment and opportunity to all members.
4. The Society does not endorse any specific religion and is non-political.

~Elise~

January 3rd, 2005, 05:51 PM

Oh--I can get Part 2 done, as well:

I've used Tarot for spellwork before. It is a great way to add focus to spells by meditating on why you are using a particular card and what you want your outcome to be and how the card helps that.

Also--when the snipers in DC were shooting people--a bunch of Witches I knew all got together with other witches across the country and put our death cards on the altars and lit a candle in front of them (to light them up to get caught). Within 5 days they were caught. Our handiwork? we'll never know for SURE, but I like to think so.

Hope this suffices...

Elise

~Elise~

January 3rd, 2005, 05:57 PM

http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=2331

This is a thread on Divinatory Ethics that has been around awhile and is worth reading...JMO, of course.

Elise

Amethyst Rose

January 3rd, 2005, 05:59 PM

As part of the Society of Soothsayers, Seers and Sages I agreed to a Code of Ethics--so here they are--I've edited out the parts that don't apply to readers...so there will be gaps in the numbering:

Hmm.... you know, I'm not sure about this. I wanted this to be an exercise in looking within yourself and developing your own ethics, rather than adhering to ethics someone else made up. However, I'll let you keep these ethics for this assignment if you tell me why you believe those are the ethics for you and why you believe they should be followed. How do they apply to your personal morals?

Amethyst Rose

January 3rd, 2005, 06:00 PM

~Elise~

January 3rd, 2005, 06:05 PM

Hmm.... you know, I'm not sure about this. I wanted this to be an exercise in looking within yourself and developing your own ethics, rather than adhering to ethics someone else made up. However, I'll let you keep these ethics for this assignment if you tell me why you believe those are the ethics for you and why you believe they should be followed. How do they apply to your personal morals?

I helped to write the Code of Ethics, does that help? So--they do apply to my morals. :clapping:

I don't tell people what they are wanting to hear--I tell it to them straight and what is said in the cards...not pie in the sky. I'm not doing the client or myself any good if I do.

I've counseled family disputes, love relationships and school issues. I tell them that THEY are the ULTIMATE decision maker. They and only they can say what is right for them.

I've had people come hunt me down a year and a half later to tell me they thought I was nuts when I first read for them and they wanted to come find me to tell me how right on their reading was. Made my weekend!

badkitty

January 3rd, 2005, 06:21 PM

These aren't as well phrased as either that were already written, but here goes part 1.

#1 To present tarot and working with abilities that we all have in a way where they are seen as natural.

#2 To keep reading confidential.

#3 To refer those who I feel too close to, to be objective to an alternate reader.

#4 To keep a list of resources on hand and refer those that need more assistance than I can provide to an alternate resource (this includes psychological, medical, addiction, etc.)

#5 To admit the things I am unsure of.

#6 To not charge more than is fair (I know broad and subjective)

#7 To treat those I am reading for with respect.

#8 To treat myself with respect and not subject my self to emotionally or psysically damaging environments.

#9 To honestly represent the limitations of the card and that the outcomes seen are not absolute, but open to influence.

#10 To not use reading for someone to try to manipulate or take advantage of them in anyway (sexually, financially).

Those are the first that come to mind. I wanted to post before there were a lot of replies so I had my first thoughts logged. I will most likely redo later too (as well as do part two).

Clockwork_Eros

January 3rd, 2005, 06:28 PM

Okay, I can get part one done right now, and I will reserve the rest of this post for part two, and EC if that is ok with you amethyst.

The ethics I work by are the same for everything I do:
Do what feels right.

I try to be a fair and kind person, but there are certain times when smiles need to take a back seat to a quick flick of the verbal lash.

I would never lie about the cards. However, I might not tell everything. I believe that there are certain events that just cannot be told to you by another person. It's like helping a butterfly out of the chrysalis-do it, and it will die. Struggle and hardship are nature's way of strengthening us, physically, emotionally, spiritually. Example:
Someone asks me to do a reading about their love life. Ok. The reading says that ther lover is having an affair. I don't think I would come right out and tell them-it's not for a third party to say, but I would suggest that they might have a heart-to-heart with their lover. Guidance over solving.

I would not turn anyone away, unless they feel wrong.

I cannot give medical or legal advice.

I would never speak of confidential issues unless given permission.

I would not do a reading for/about a third party unless given permission by said party, or if my intuition said that it was absolutely imperative to the immediate safety of said party.

I would explain to the querent the future's uncertainty, that this is an option, a look, a per chance event that has a good chance of happening but is not set in stone. I believe that everyone should realize this before having, especially before paying, for a divination.

I will treat the querent with respect.

I will answer any questions about the cards-knowledge should be freely given-and I will even explain the meanings of the cards pulled if asked to do so.

I will be exceptionally careful how I verbalize negative results. I don't want to make them into affirmations, because once a person believes an event will happen, they tend to subconciously roll towards it, to help make it happen.

As I said, I will do what feels right. What works for one person might not work for the next. Each encounter is individual, unique, and considerations have to be taken into account. I don't believe that ethics should be made into a dogma - A person needs to be able to deal with all possibilities, which sometimes involves bending the ethics you adhere too. Moral evolution is always a good thing.

******
Part 2

Tarot as a Game:
"Tarot games originated in Italy in the early 15th century. They are still played in a number of European countries, namely: Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland. Each of these countries has its own rather different version(s) of the game." Each game needs four suits, the french suit is identical to modern playing cards, while the italian is cups, coins (pentacles) batons( wands) and swords. Also needed are 21 trumps and a card (like the joker) called the fool or excuse. Tarot was one of the original games to include trumps, and vitually all modern trick-taking card games using trumps gleaned the idea from tarot games. Tarot games are point-trick games, where you must trump if you have no card to follow suit. "The values of the cards are common to most games of the group: 5, 4, 3, 2 for the court cards in the suits; 5 for the 1 and 21 of trumps and the fool; and 1 for each other card. However, the method of adding up these values in most games is quite unusual and characteristic of Tarot games." Games played in italy include Tarocchi and Minchiate. (Type I) The latter was played with 97 or 98 cards in central and southern italy, in the 17th and 18th centuries. A tarocchi form called ottocento was played in Bologna with a 62 card deck.
Ottocento instructions Here: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/ottocen.html

Type II
Other versions of games include Troccas and Droggyn.
Instructions for Troccas here: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/troccas.html
Instructions for Droggyn here: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/stubtar.html

Type III
Central europe has the most games, mainly from austria. They include
Konigrufen, Taroky, and Cego.
Konigrufen rules: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/koenig.html
Taroky rules: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/taroky.html
Cego rules: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/cego.html

A swiss game, Troggu, blends the styles of Type II and III
Troggu rules: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/troggu.html
Game types are mainly dependant on scoring.

How to count points in Tarot: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/counting.html

(I'm very pressed for time, its week-before-midterms/scholarship/project crunch at school, and I have about another 6 hours worth of work to do. Otherwise, I would expand this out to be much much fuller, with fewer links, and more sources)

My Source: http://www.pagat.com/tarot/

***

I was trying to find Tarot as a Code and alphabet. Came across these two sites. Amazing information, but I am so mentally exhausted from research for my school project that these went straight over my head and into the realm of "amazing-must-come-back-and-make-sense-of-this-wow" I figured I would share them, maybe someone else would make more sense of them in better fashion than I.

Wow.
http://chakracity.com/tarot.html

Genes, Hebrew, Tarot
http://www.tripzine.com/articles.asp?id=occult
******

**********
Extra Credit
**********

celticfire

January 3rd, 2005, 06:52 PM

Code of Ethics

Before I begin to list my code of ethics (as it can be long and detailed...a bit much I'm sure), I want to write a definition that I believe is important (especially since AR made mention of it above):

morals: a set of principles, theory or system of values; the principles of conduct which govern an individual or group; see also ethics (these are my own words)

For me, personally, morals vary from person to person, nation to nation, and what one has been 'taught' to believe (for the most part). Without morals, or ethics, there tends to be lawlessness, misery, social deviance, and for lack of any other way to say it: a crappy way to live.

Now...on to ethics (sorry).

My Own Code of Ethics

*I will be honest about my education, qualifications, or knowlege pertaining to Tarot and the art of reading the Tarot; I will also be honest regarding my experience and understanding of Tarot reading

(honesty is a matter of principal and one that i hold in the highest regard; when all else fails or leaves, at least you can claim your own honesty and integrity)

*I will maintain the confidentiality of the client, their reading, and any discussion pertaining too at all times and without prejudice

(confidentiality is a must because if a client, friend, family member, or just an acquantance cannot trust you when they are placing their faith in you, then there isn't much basis for them to trust what you are telling them...or the person you 'claim' to be)

*I will treat all clients equally, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual preference or other orientations

(all people should be treated the way you'd hope to be treated in turn...yep, you can tell i'm from the south sometimes)

*I will respect the wishes of the client; if they decide, at any time before or during the reading, to terminate the 'session', I will do so promptly and without prejudice

(at no time should you do anything intentionally to make the client lose their trust in you and in the Tarot; they must be able to trust in you fully and if there is discomfort or lack of harmony, then it is imperative to honor their wishes)

*I will advise the client that the art of Tarot is but a tool used to assist them in understanding their present circumstances or any possible outcome which is divined; the client alone is responsible for their own actions, decisions and/or behaviour after the fact (***all people are resposible for themselves alone***)

(Tarot, yes, is a tool which serves many purposes; mostly it is as stated above but can also be a tool of great spiritual empowerment)

*I will refrain from making any attempt at predicting the future; I cannot foresee the future for any, including myself, therefore I will not make claims thereto, especially as the future is a matter of free will and cannot be predetermined

(no one can predict the future, because it is ever changing)

*I will perform no disservice to a client by telling or advising them on how they should procede regarding any part of their reading or information revealed during a reading

(it is not up to anyone to determine how another should procede in life...what decisions to make, what things to say, etc...that infringes upon free will)

*I will advise the client to seek the cousel of a qualified representative (accountant, attorney, or physician) pertaining to any information provided in their reading dealing with finances, legal, medical or psychological issues; at no time will I assume or presume to have a better understanding above my own qualifications or education

(this is a moral and legal issue...enough said)

*I will refuse to perform a reading based on questions or comments made which are either illegal or immoral and/or which may interfere with anyother's free will; or if it compromises my own code of ethics

(pretty self-explanatory here...i simply refuse to be party to anything in which i do not beleive in or that which i believe is harmful to myself, the client/person or others)

*I will refuse to perform a reading for a minor, unless I have appropriate and adequate parental consent

(um, yeah, another legal boon here)

*I will read the Tarot cards responsibly and without any prejudice, always

I'm sure I will add to my ethics, and possibly change them accordingly over time and with more experience and understanding. I have not included any information regarding payment, as I do not believe that I will ever seek divining the Tarot as a form of income (no offense to those who do). These are my basics, for which I will remain true and uphold to the best of my own ability, without pretense.

~Elise~

January 3rd, 2005, 07:28 PM

okay--try #2 at Part 2

I have used the following book before for tarot spells:
Tarot Spells
This book presents practical ways to create positive changes in your life using the power of the Tarot. No elaborate rituals or tools are required -- your spells can be as simple or complex as you desire. All you need is an open mind & a deck of Tarot cards to attract love & romance, improve your finances, encourage good health, enhance creativity, overcome obstacles, or develop psychic awareness. Even if you have no experience working with the Tarot, this unique book tells you how the archetypal symbols of the Tarot speak to the subconscious mind & add power to your spells. For those already familiar with the cards, this book opens new doors to knowledge & creativity. In this updated edition, the author responds to the most frequently asked questions from readers, including how to customize your spells to meet specific needs. Paperback, 294 pages.

By Renee, Janina

Although--here is a bit more from here: http://www.beyondweird.com/tarotcards2.html

Most people know the tarot only as a tool for divination. Each of the tarot cards represents a field of experience and/or a function in life. In a tarot reading you shuffle the cards then you lay them out in a specific manner such as the celtic cross method or the tree of life method. Then you judge each card by its position in the layout and how it relates to the other cards. From this you can then divine important facts about the person for whom you are reading.
All the following is about tarot spells.
When you give a tarot reading you channel energies from the universe towards yourself. You use the cards as indicators of what the universe tells you. If you do a spell with the tarot you use the cards as energy filters. They represent the energies that you are about to send off. I have
mentioned above that each tarot card is a archetypal symbol that represents a field of experince or a function or an idea. To combine tarot cards means to combine ideas. Consequently the tarot cards are an ideal tool to creatively act upon your universe in magical operations.
A magical operation is any action at a distance that involves the use of structural links and life energy, or psychic power. Therefore, to be effective in magical work, you need a source of life energy, a psychic link to the target of your magical operation (unless the target of the magical
operation is present), and a structural link that represents the specific action that you desire. The success of every magical work depends on these three key factors.

As I stated in my post before about the working we did for the snipers--we encompassed all three items...most important being Will.

JMO and YMMV,

Elise

Rain Gnosis

January 3rd, 2005, 07:57 PM

As mentioned in the first lesson of this class, Tarot originally was a game known as Tarocco. The regular four-suited deck was modified by adding special cards which were above the four ordinary suits. The game played with these extra cards was called "triomfi". The triomfi was a great celebration including mock battles, entertainment, and feasts, and each of the major arcana is believed to depict some of the entertainers from the festivities. Later Tarocco became Tarot in French.

Extra cards were added and dropped until the end of the 15th century, at which time a standard arose. This standard was the 78 card pack with 21 trumps and a "fool", with 14 cards per suit. However, other formats existed into the 20th century, including 62 and 97 card packs. The suits were as in the standard Latin deck - spades (swords), bastoni (batons or clubs), coppe (cups), and denari (coins) into the 18th century. The Germans were the first to replace these suits with spades, clubs, hearts, and diamonds, and others did as well.

The fool could be played regardless of suit, rather like the 21 trumps, except playing the fool would lose the trick. Alternatively, the fool could be played as the 22nd trump. This card was known as "il Matto", which translates to "the madman" or "the lunatic". When freedom of speech was not as common, the lunatic was always able to speak his mind - perhaps "trumping" reason with his words, which were of "0" value. Eventually this card became the common playing card deck's joker.

Michael Dummett classifies tarot games into three different types (Il Mondo e l'Angelo, 1993).
- Minchiate - very popular in central and southern Italy in earlier centuries, but seems to have died out since then.
- 63 or 64 card forms of Tarocchi played in Sicily
- various forms of games played with a 62 card pack played in Bologna, such as Ottocento
However, there are a multitude of variations on these, from Austria, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Romania, Sweden, France, etc.

Michael Dummett wrote books such as "The Game of Tarot" (1980), and "A History of Games Played with the Tarot Pack.The Game of Triumphs" (2004) with John McLeod. These days you can even play Tarot online (http://objectivetarot.free.fr/objective/index.en.html), join a group for Tarot game players (http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/tarotgame/) or find countless games to play with your physical deck (http://pagat.com/tarot/index.html), proving that playing games is still a very popular way of working with Tarot.

http://roswell.fortunecity.com/leehigh/340/shadow/shadow5.htm
http://www.cs.man.ac.uk/playing-cards/faq.html#sub3.6
http://www.pagat.com/tarot/index.html

Rain Gnosis

January 3rd, 2005, 08:19 PM

1. I will not claim to divine the future - instead I will make clear that I observe energies and unlock symbols to ascertain possibilities and suggestions.

This is because I do not believe the tarot can be used to reveal an absolute future, but that the tarot unlocks energies and undertones we may not consciously be aware of. These symbols and signs can be used to marry the subconscious and collective unconscious with conscious thought, to reveal what otherwise may be hidden. Further, I believe we can always make choices and modifications to affect our outer and inner environments.

2. I will not take advantage of the trust given to me in order to obtain money or power over others.

I believe this would render my ability to read tarot useless, as power and greed cloud the mind and draw the focus to the physical rather then the subconscious. More importantly, I feel trust is a gift, and abusing it is simply wrong.

3. I will not solicit repeat readings, nor allow clients to become dependent on the tarot. I will not allow clients to believe reading tarot is a special gift, but instead try to reveal it as a skill and art anyone can try.

I see the tarot as a tool by which each and every individual can grow, change, and become in tune with the world around them. It is, however, not a crutch, nor a cure-all.

4. I will not discuss readings or abuse confidentiality - readings will only be between myself and the querent.

I believe the trust given by a client is a wonderful, yet delicate honour. I feel it's necessary to foster that trust, rather than abusing it.

5. I will not over-exert myself, or complete readings unless I have offered to do so.

I will not allow myself to become drained, as this would be an abuse of my subconscious and higher self.

6. I will try to speak respectfully and carefully, to ensure solutions are suggested and the tarot's messages honestly revealed while struggling to maintain positive, pleasant communication.

A tarot reading should be meaningful and enlightening, and should never give the client cause for undue stress or anxiety. However, a tarot reading should also be honest. A medium must be maintained.

7. I will not allow people to believe tarot will solve their problems, nor that it is a substitute for the advice of professionals (lawyers, doctors, etc.). Where possible I will refer clients to other resources who may be able to help them.

This is an extension of 2 and 3 - however, also points out that there are professionals and resources elsewhere that I shall help clients to find. This also reflects my belief that knowledge should be given and shared, that I will help people learn more, connect with others, find help, etc.

I noticed some of the morals and ethics other people pointed out, that I do not agree with. These include not reading for a minor, whereas I believe minors are often able to gain from tarot readings, and would choose on a case by case basis as to whether to read for them. Others suggest not doing readings focusing on activities that are illegal or immoral. I feel common systems of law and order will maintain justice. I do not believe in applying my own morals to others, as it is hard to judge for others when I do not walk in other people's shoes.

Devi

January 3rd, 2005, 08:47 PM

Part 1

This is an interesting assignment. Being new to tarot I have never really thought about boundaries and what I will or wont do when it comes to reading for other people.

1)I guess number one would be that I would make it clear to whomever I'm reading for that Tarot does not foretell irreversible outcomes and that the reading should be looked at as guidance or as shining a little more light into a particular situation. Tarot readings are not written in stone.

This is because I would not want anyone to feel dependent on tarot for every move they make. Also I would not want anyone to feel as if their future could not be changed from what the reading shows.

2)I think that for right now I would only read for friends and family.

I'm hoping that learning tarot will be more of a therapeutic experience for me. I'm also hoping that I will be able to use this knowledge to better advise friends and family since they come to me anyway! Maybe as my confidence grows in my interpretations I will feel okay with reading for strangers.

3) I will not do readings for anyone predicting death, sickness or how to harm anyone.

The reason is I don't think i could handle telling people this. I've always had a fear of death and losing a loved one. I think i would be too nervous during the reading and hoping for good news that I would be unable to concentrate and produce a accurate reading.

4) I will maintain a level of neutrality

This is something I'm listing to remind myself to keep emotional prejudices at bay. (Readings for friends and family might make this a little challenging.) I tend to more of an emotional person and I dont want this getting in the way. I think this will also help me with pre judging people.

5) Keep all Requested Readings for family confidential

My family is a big circle of blabber mouths (including myself) when it comes to each other's business. So I have a system of when I'm told something to specifically ask is it confidential or not.

6) Keep all Readings for friends confidential

This is of course to create a re-pore of trust. No one's personal reading will be discussed unless they bring it up themselves.

7) Never over extend myself in doing too many readings in a short time.

I never want reading tarot to feel like a chore. Learning tarot is something I'm doing for self-confidence and self-exploration. Being able to read for others will be a plus for me but its more of a personal journey.

8) And also to educate people that using tarot does not mean you are uniting with the devil or that you are necessarily changing faiths.

I didn't think people thought that but I have had a few strange responses from people when I told them about my interest.

( Recently I mentioned to a friend through e-mail that I was finally exploring some long-time interests . Tarot was something I mentioned specifically and in her response e-mail she mentioned that she hoped I was happy in my faith. I thought that was a little strange. She did mentioned that she knew of one other Hindu that read tarot. So, Maybe I'm being too sensitive but I'll have to ask her about that.)

Part 2

I like the idea of using tarot for self-discovery and self transformation.

Tarot can be used for discovering hidden talents or to help guide you through transitions in life. I think its a great form of meditation and inner searching. It feels like a method for connecting to your higher self or guides with a system of decoding the relaying messages.

I'm hoping to learn to be able to center myself when Im having anxiety and to be able to trust my intuition more.

self discovery (http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/2282/tarot/index.htm)

I read an article that was interesting that looked at the tarot as a means of guidance throughout stages in your life. The author seemed to be saying that the tarot can be used for clarity and realizations because the cards map the different experiences you go through in life.

Your life's journey is represented by the fool going through three stages, with the 1st stage starting with the magician. The author labeled this as the physical stage from birth to adolescents which ended with The Chariot. The second stage labeled as the emotional stage from adolescence to adulthood began again with strength and ended with temperance.
The final stage is represented with the remaining cards. The author then went on to explain the lessons learned through each stage.

Life's Journey (http://www.bluewitch.com/healingtarot/socmajors.htm)

Another article spoke of using the tarot for means of visualization to help manifest the desired result. An example would be if you are in the middle of a trying situation, try meditating on the strength card and its symbols and meanings and imagine yourself possessing these qualities. I really like this idea of visualization and using the tarot as an aid in that method for healing and self-affirmations.

Visualization (
http://www.bluewitch.com/healingtarot/sunsoc.htm )

Rain Gnosis

January 3rd, 2005, 09:13 PM

I have played 5 games (I recorded the cards I pulled and readings too, but did not want to paste them all here as it's quite long!).

The Cave (Game 1) was perhaps the most revealing, and the cards it showed me reflected a reading I did recently, but expanded upon it. The spread came out gentle and thoughtful. This reading was the most personal.

However, I found Fish (Game 2) quick but also to the point - it's a much quicker reading, and seemed to give the same ideas in a more straightforward way.

I played Birthday Game (Game 3). This one wasn't revealing, but I think that's more because the universe has told me time and time again the same answer to my wish.

When I played Prosperity (Game 4) I felt like it still focused more on my emotions then material gains. There weren't any earthy cards in this reading at all! It hit to the heart of "what makes me feel needy", and made a suggestion on what could "make me feel rich". The card for "present state" really mirrored how I feel in this moment. And the last card, "what do I need to do to find prosperity" reflected what the previous readings suggested.

With Magic Wand (Game 6), my second card was fiery. This was a strange one though, because rather then showing where I'm empowered, it showed me how I'm running myself ragged. Maybe a bit too much fire! And the one and only card leading up to it had shown up in a previous spread, as a gentle reminder of how I can find peace.

In general, these spreads were quick and easy - no need to drag a notebook out and write pages and pages. Interestingly the same overtones and energies arose. It was fun to do these quickly and play with the cards in light-hearted readings. Since I used my new deck it was a great way to introduce myself to new cards!

Bix

January 3rd, 2005, 09:59 PM

Ethics:
1. I will not do a reading for anyone else unless I myself feel confident in my abilities.
I am basically giving advice to another person...if I'm not confident in my abilities, how can I give good advice?
2. I will not give a reading if I'm physically or emotional drained and/or ill.
This has to do with ethic number one. If I don't physically and emotionally feel up to par to give a reading, I cannot be confident in my abilities.
3. I will not hide my interpretations to the reader by lying to them.
This is an obvious thing to me. People come to you for advice, so it is unfair to lie to them.
4. I will keep my readings and the client's personal life confidential unless I see that the client could possibly harm themselves or others.
I think it is very important to keep your clients' readings private because it's the clients' business and nobody elses. But if the client is in danger to themselves or others, I think it is my responsibility to get help for that person.
5. To admit when I'm wrong and to admit when I do not know something.
It harms your client if you just make things up.

Bix

January 3rd, 2005, 10:07 PM

Here are some of the results I found when just doing searches around Google.

1. To help interpret your psyche and allow yourself to have a deeper meaning of your spirituality. This site shows how the symbols in the Tarot can be taken to a deeper level by relating them to the human psyche.
Psychology and Tarot (http://www.paragonhouse.com/Publicity/tarot.htm)

2. More Tarot games!
Tarot Games (http://home.att.net/~jwricklef/Games.html)

3. Tarot usage in dungeons and dragons and other roleplaying games. The book shown on the site is about a prestige class for d20 games. Being the D&D nerd that I am, I thought this was pretty cool. :weirdsmil
Tarot and roleplaying (http://www.gamewyrd.com/review/286)

EDIT: I just realized you wanted us to research just ONE alternative to tarot use. Do you want me to go ahead and go more specific into one of these?

Amethyst Rose

January 3rd, 2005, 11:24 PM

I noticed some of the morals and ethics other people pointed out, that I do not agree with. These include not reading for a minor, whereas I believe minors are often able to gain from tarot readings, and would choose on a case by case basis as to whether to read for them.

The problem with that is that it can be illegal to read for a minor, especially if you're charging for readings. It can be considered the same thing as contributing to the delinquency of a minor (the same charge you'd get by teaching them about a religion).

Great answers, thanks!

Amethyst Rose

January 3rd, 2005, 11:28 PM

EDIT: I just realized you wanted us to research just ONE alternative to tarot use. Do you want me to go ahead and go more specific into one of these?

That'd be nice, thanks :) Good job, so far, though. :)

OriginalWacky

January 3rd, 2005, 11:57 PM

Assignment 2
1st Part:
My ethics will be listed in blue, and my reasons will be listed after them in bright pink.

I will always be honest. I will represent myself and my qualifications honestly. I will interpret to the best of my ability, and admit when I cannot interpret. I will strive to give the best advice I am capable of at all times. I will not read to gain personal information on a client to use against them in any way. I believe honesty and integrity go hand on hand. I do not want people to think I am some grand poobah, so I will always tell the truth about any qualifications I have. I won’t make things up or tell people what they want to hear. I want them to feel confident in what I tell them, because first of all, it’s the way I am in other dealings, and secondly, most people won’t pay somebody who is dishonest and/or unethical.

I will maintain confidentiality in all forms of communication with the client, unless there is a life-threatening situation, I am ordered by a court of law, or the client has given permission. I will not read on or about a third party without that party’s express permission. I want people to feel they can confide in me, and trust that I won’t tell others about it. However, if someone tells me that they are going to kill their neighbor, I will report it to the police. The breaking of the confidentiality in that case is for the higher good of all involved. If ordered by a court of law, I will also give information, but not in every case. As an example of a reading on a third person with permission… if a sister wants a reading on her brother, and the brother has let me know that he wants this as well, I will read.

Tarot cards cannot predict the future. They can only give predictions on what may happen, based on the current trend of events. I will not give answers “set in stone” so to speak, only interpret what I can see, based on what I’ve been told, and what the cards show me. This one is pretty self-explanatory, and follows with being honest and ethical. I want my clients to be able to make their decision on their own, and all I can do is tell them where the cards see things going at that moment. I want my clients to know that they have a choice in what happens, and they can make their own future.

I will recommend clients consult a licensed professional for advice of a legal, financial, medical, or psychological nature that I am not qualified to provide. I will not refer clients to any professional for the purpose of receiving kickbacks or other compensation. Another self-explanatory one. However, if I have been trained in any professional area, I will also keep professional advice separate from tarot readings. I will be willing to refer clients to a suitable professional if they request it, or at the very least, help them find the resources to choose a professional on their own.

I will maintain a professional attitude in all of my dealings with clients. I will strive to serve the best interests of the client without causing or intending to cause harm. I will respect my colleagues in the same manner. This is rather general, but it fits in that I will always try to keep the client’s best interests in mind when I am reading, as well as before and after a reading. I will refrain from badmouthing a client to others (clients and readers), although I will be honest in assessing a client or reader’s abilities.

I reserve the right to refuse to read for any client, but will never keep a payment rendered in such a case. I will not take a payment unless the client is satisfied with the reading. I will respect my clients’ right to refuse or terminate their reading at any time. I want to be fair when I charge for readings, not charging too much, but not charging so little that it’s costing me money to read. I always want my client to be happy with their reading, and will never charge if they feel their question has not been addressed. I will also respect their right to stop a reading if it’s too intense.

I will treat all my clients with equal respect, regardless of age, gender, origin, race, religion, age, sexual preference, wealth, or other orientation. I will be non-judgmental at all times, and realize that my clients alone are responsible for their behavior. Again, this is pretty self explanatory. I don’t want my clients to feel as if they are less than any other person because of any orientation. I want everybody to feel welcome when I read for them, and to feel that I actually do care about them. Because, the simple fact is, I do care for people, no matter how I try to convince myself that I don’t.

I will not read for the same person about the same question more than once a month. I will not read for the same person on any question more than once a week. I will try to allow my clients to take control of their own lives, and I will try help to empower them to do so. I chose to add these limits (which will possibly change, depending on circumstances) to make the attempt to keep anybody from being dependant on me or my services. I also want to help my clients realize that they have the power to change their own future.

I will not pressure my clients to provide more information than they are willing to, nor will I give them information they indicate they do not want to know. I will not encourage my clients to return for future visits they don’t feel they need or want. I don’t want to intrude on my clients’ privacy, nor attempt to force them into coming back more often. While I do want to gain monetary compensation for reading, I don’t ever want my clients to feel taken advantage of.

*~*
2nd Part:
Tarot can be used for spellcasting, which is written about in several books, and on several websites. Here are the sources I’ve been reading to find more information about the use of tarot for spells. Beyond these pages, almost every page I found did not give detail beyond recommending certain books. Therefore, this section will be quite short, as my own knowledge of this topic is extremely limited.

http://www.talisman.net/tarot/spells.html (http://www.talisman.net/tarot/spells.html)

http://www.magitech.com/tarotspells/ (http://www.magitech.com/tarotspells/)

http://www.beyondweird.com/tarotcards2.html (http://www.beyondweird.com/tarotcards2.html)

When performing magick with the tarot, the tarot card serves as a structural link to the desired outcome. For example, a spell for two lovers would very likely include the lovers card. Naturally, the more you know the meanings of the cards, the better you will be at selecting what card represents your desired action. Because magick is such a personal thing, it’s very difficult to “tell everything” there is about it. Since everybody works differently, the best thing might be for a person to read several sources, and then determine what will work for them.

*~*
Extra Credit (Since I need it)
I chose two of the games to try tonight, and these are the ones: 6. MAGIC WAND - A wonderful game to play if you need to check your empowerment level. The suit of Wands relates to fire, drive, the power that comes from inner conviction. If you have been feeling lethargic, or you can't seem to get out of your own way, Magic Wand can show you where your energy is blocked and give you some ideas on how to recover your drive. and 5. IRIS - Based on the natural cycle of bulb or seed, sprout, leaf, and flower, Iris is useful when you are considering a new project or course of action. I thought that the Magic Wand might tell me how closely to pay attention to the Iris one, because if I’m very empowered right now, I might get the best results.

Magic Wand: 1. Five of Swords; 2. Page of Wands. Apparently, my empowerment level is on a roll tonight.

Iris: 1. Page of Pentacles; 2. Judgement reversed; 3. Ten of Swords; 4. Six of Pentacles reversed; 5. The World reversed; 6. King of Swords reversed. I’ve noted the meanings given in the book, then I will try to correlate them with what I chose to ask about.

1. The Page of Pentacles is said to mean gain, riches, family matters, archives, extraction, the abode of the family.
2. Judgement reversed is said to mean weakness, pulsillanimity, simplicity, deliberation, decision, sentence.

3. The Ten of Swords is said to mean whatsoever is intimated by the design, also pain, affliction, tears, sadness, desolation.

4. Six of Pentacles reversed is said to mean presents, gifts, gratification; another account says attention, vigilance; now is the accepted time, present prosperity, etc.

5. The World reversed is said to mean inertia, fixity, stagnation, permanence.

6. The King of Swords reversed is said to mean whatsoever arises out of the idea of judgement and all its connexions- power, command, authority, militant intelligence, law, offices of the crown, and so forth.

Okay, the issue that I brought to bear here was on continuing my education. I have to go with the first word on that, gain. I would gain so much if I were to go back to school, and that was the reason I’ve been thinking about it, so that would be the seed. The 2nd card, the sprout, fits in very much, because I’ve been thinking about it, and have been trying to make a decision. On the 3rd card, I think that I may have to lose some things I value, like a job that I’ve enjoyed, or something along those lines, or that it might mean that the path with be hard and lonely. On the last three, the flower, I have to think that it falls under the category of telling me that unless I change something, move now on this, I will stagnate, or be full of inertia, and if I continue in this vein, there will be some problem with authority, or government, or SOMEthing along those lines.

I welcome anybody else to comment on what they think might be hidden between these lines, and with that, I’m done with my second assignment.

LadyAutumnCat

January 4th, 2005, 12:28 AM

This is my part 1 for the assignment. I am saving the rest for tomorrow since I have had a very rough day and am on new medications and can't seem to see straight! Please excuse any typos.

Code of ethics:

1. I will not counsel querants as if I am an authority on their problem, for example if they require financial or emotional counseling. Instead, I will tell them what the cards show and encourage them to seek professional counseling.

The reason I believe that this is important is that many readers act as if they have all of the answers, which they don't, nor are they trained to handle important decisions. I believe that the majority of readers who choose to give advise are doing so for the money, in essence to rope the person in for repeat readings and guidance. I believe that the querant would find clearer and more critical answers from someone experienced directly in their problem.

2. I will not read questions that focus on health/death/birth.

I believe that this is critical because the cards can not foretell the future. The cards are a tool, not a time machine that can directly transport through time to provide the exact events of the future. I also believe that if a person is so concerned about their health or death, they should be under the supervision of a professional such as a doctor. The same goes for births. While I do believe that the cards can indeed predict a birth, they might not always predict the birth of a child, instead it could be the birth of a new era, direction etc.

3. I will only read when my mind is clear and I am healthy.

This is crucial in order to correctly interpret the cards. If my energies are low or taxed there is no way that I could correctly interpret the cards or treat querants as they deserved to be treated.

4. I will treat every querant with respect.

This is just the way to be. There is no reason to discriminate or exclude. Of course, if I felt that someone was a danger or a threat, then I would have to ask them to leave or to report them.

5. I will not read for minors!

I won't do this for legal reasons and because many times teenagers get lured into attempting to predict the future instead of shaping it for themselves. Besides, I think that their energies are still not quite focused on who they are, they are still developing themselves.

6. I will not allow a querant to become overly dependent on readings.

Querants will only be allowed to ask questions a couple of times a month, if that. I feel this way because 1. this avoids them becoming addicted to tarot for answers and 2. the more you read the cards for one person or for the same problem the more muddy the answers are.

7. I will not think of making money first!

Tarot is about helping others not becoming rich. Of course a person may wish to charge for their services, however if they do so, they should provide a complete and full reading, not just something that was generated on the computer or something they have half heartedly interpreted. The querant is serious and concerned, they deserve respect.

8. I will respect!

I think it is self explanatory. I will respect the querant, myself, the cards, and the energies.

Aidron

January 4th, 2005, 12:35 AM

It took me awhile to create a concise list of rules that I plan to adhere to 99.9% of the time, and I state 99.9% to include the odd circumstance in which it may be most prudent to override any and all rules.

1.) I will perform no more than three readings within one lunar cycle/month.

A lot can occur in one lunar cycle/month. The first week we can be upbeat, optimistic, and cheerful. The next staggering, irritated, and frustrated. Keeping this in mind I would not hesitate to perform up to three readings for a specific person and given that three holds such sacred significance in my life I feel it is an appropriate limit to place on the time in question.

2.) I will speak truthfully in regards to what the tarot reveals to me, but never attempt to sugar-coat or traumatize the individual(s) with any messages the tarot may have to offer.

I don't believe in sugar-coating anything, which I view as a dangerous extreme. At the other end of the spectrum you have those who are so 'slit your throat' honest that it can leave a person horribly traumatized and scarred on many levels. I will attempt to avoid treating people both like helpless idiots or targets for brutal honesty.

3.) I will treat my deck with reverence.

This includes, but is not limited to storing it away neatly when not in use, washing my hands before handling it, and not letting it be the source of gawking as if it were some sort of circus freak. All of these have both metaphysical and mundane reasons behind them. This all coincides with how I consider treating it with reverence only, not the standards set by others. If I though wrapping it in a rubber band and leaving it setting out on my altar was best, that is what I would do.

4.) I will not read for minors without the consent of a legal guardian.

For the most part I really do not want some angry parent breathing down my neck. They may raise their children however they wish, and if they feel a tarot reading would be inappropriate then I will not push the matter.

5.) I will not manipulate, abuse, or entice those I read for.

I will not use a reading to be deceptive or mess with the mind of others who obviously need sincere truth from the experience, not further turmoil.

6.) I will not claim or boast that I possess a unique gift.

I will express that the tarot is a tool that requires skill to utilize. Anyone can acquire the tool and anyone can acquire the skill, it just may be more difficult or easy for some to do so.

7.) I will always present the tarot and my skill with it truthfully.

A more general overview of rule #6, but incooperates a great deal more such as the origins of the tarot, what it can and cannot do, my level of familiarity with it and so forth. I simply felt #6 was important enough to be singled out.

8.) Unless the person is absolutely malicious and a waste of the very air they breathe I will attempt to not let anyone leave without a sense of hope.

There is trash out there, metaphorically speaking. With the exclusion of those people I see it as being only detrimental and unnecessarily nasty to allow people to leave with a feeling of hopelessness in regards to the reading. Granted, I do not plan to read for those who demonstrate such deplorable personalities, but they may demonstrate it or showcase their true colors during the reading, at which point the reading is over and if they feel hopeless too freakin' bad.

9.) I will not allow others or myself to become dependant on the tarot.

Simply put, it's a tool, and like anything that we feel can provide us with aid and fascinates us some people can easily latch onto it due to a feeling of hopelessness they already possess. If I feel they or I am doing this I simply won't lay out the cards until they or I have come to terms with the real problem. The last thing I need is for myself or others to wind up in TAA (tarot addicts anonymous ;) ).

10.) I will keep my judgments out of a reading and maintain an open mind.

Even with the most elaborate and intricate readings I can never know about a person or their life in its entirety, therefore it is best to consider things which are unaccounted for and not let my own opinions and feelings influence the readings.

11.) I will not work with my cards when I or the person I am reading for is under the influence of something detrimental.

Whether it's alcohol, drugs, doubt, or an immense amount of anxiety, I will not utilize my cards at that time. It's disrespectful to my deck and opens a flood gate of problems.

Aidron

January 4th, 2005, 01:09 AM

Magical Applications of the Tarot

Given the multitude of cards present within the tarot deck and the fact that the tarot itself is based around visual principles (i.ea. symbolism; color, numbers, scenery, emotions transcribed onto physical objects) it can be both very effective and offer a great deal of variety to utilize in magical applications.

The most common utilization being that of selecting appropriate cards from your deck or decks (in the case of wanting to combine numerology such as the #3 with physical qualities by selecting three different Three of Swords from three different decks) and use them as a focal point and/or catalyst in your spells and rituals. This can be used in conjunction with other magical applications, such as:

Other Physical Catalysts: Stones, candles, herbs, feathers and ritual tools. You may surround a silver candle charged for increased psychic awareness with The Moon, Ace of Cups and Queen of Cups. Upon each card or between them you could place a single piece of moonstone (rainbow or opaque) and follow it up by sprinkling a herbal blend for psychic magnification (the same blend could be used for incense and upon the candle) around the candle. Obviously the focus here is on the candle, with the tarot being used as a secondary catalyst, but this is only one of many examples.

Trance work & Visualization: Select a card or cards appropriate to your intent, such as courage. For this you may select the Ace of Swords, Knight of Swords (ace and knight of wands in most decks), Strength and The Sun. Hold one card at a time in your receptive hand and burn an image of it into your mind. Close your eyes and let the most influential points of the card radiate in your mind while the less influential ones achieving a softer focus. You could at this time hold the card close to your face and as you inhale feel yourself taking the energy of the card into you, enhancing your own courage.

Dreams: Select a card or cards appropriate to your intent just as always, and sleep with them under your pillow, inside your pillowcase, or under your mattress where your head rests (this being most preferable if you would not wish your cards to be possibly bent). If you goal was to receive answers in the dream state about how to deal with a malevolent person intent on ruining you in one manner or another you would probably do best to select the Five of Swords (wands in most decks).

Petition Magic: Create a copy of your selected card(ce) using any copier you can obtain, and if none are available create a crude drawing of the card on an index card. Cut the replica so its size matches the original. From there your choices are plentiful (as always). You could bind the original and the copy together with a green cord had you selected the Ace of Pentacles for newfound prosperity and focus on transmitting the energy of the original to the replica, then slide the original out and burn the replica along with the cord, suitably burying the ashes to signify the elemental earth influence. Failing that you could simply burn the replica and scatter your ashes as you see fit, less mess, less fuss.

Charm Magic: Creating a sachet along with a replica of your intended card or cards as described in the above, such as the Ten of Swords (wands in most decks) and Strength to endure and overcome an exhausting period in your life. Naturally you'd need something such as felt or cloth to create the sachet and could incorporate anything from herbs, stones, feathers, ashes left over from previous petition magic that correlates to the goal and so forth. I won't get into the elaborate and numerous possibilities of charm construction here, but you would of course include any replicas of your cards, folding them most likely being necessary toward you to signify attraction. A less involved manner would include simply folding the replica cards in an appropriate manner and writing your intent on the back (perhaps in a bind rune) then carrying it with you at all times.

Physical Circles: A bit more specific than the other methods, but if you wished to perform a ritual to balance the elements within you and/or bring them into your life in a balanced fashion you could create a circle including each of the aces and placing them at the four directional corners you associate with each element. From there proceed to utilize a state of trance, invoking them one at a time (and perhaps holding each card as you do so) and feeling the elemental energies entering your life or yourself until you are a balanced, cohesive whole with them. Alternatively, you could actually use these in typical sphere (most often called circle, but I won't get into why I feel that term is inappropriate here) conjurations, holding them up toward the direction you associate with each card's element and leaving them there until the rite has ended. The benefit of this as opposed to other procedures is that tarot cards are usually much smaller than most physical items people use and given that they are flat and not quite as dangerous as some tools, be less of a hassle and less of a worry.

Understanding the Tarot: Last, but not least, the method I recently finished to better understand each card. While it may fall more in the realm of meditation, Immy still posting it. ;) You select one card at a time, starting with the Fool (doing this in chronological order will help you to memorize the numerical order better). Burn the image of the card into your brain, trace any significant characteristics within the card or all with the index finger and middle finger of your receptive hand. These two fingers help trigger both memory and visualization, an actual proven scientific point used in other procedures. When you feel you have the image clearly burned into your mind, close your eyes, hold the card in your receptive hand, and visualize it in your mind. Enlarge it beyond its normal size, so large that the characters inside are life-size or that the card is as large as you are. What you will then do is step inside the card, greet the characters within it and converse with them. Ask them to reveal any wisdom or insights they have for you, but be gracious and polite. When you feel you have learned all they wish or can teach you (I've found they won't simply tell you everything, requiring you to put in a bit of leg work yourself for each card) bid them farewell, step out of the card and back into your body. Then write down anything you have learned. It may take you a long time to complete this, but it's well worth it. Before I began I seriously struggled with some cards, but now if someone so much as mentions just one I can recall at least 5 associations to the card.

Sources: "Every Day Tarot Magic" by Dorothy Morrison, "Tarot for a New Generation" Jnana Renee. Afraid I don't have any sources you can actually check up on unless you own those books, and I mostly used both of those for inspiration rather than taking these methods from the books.

Aidron

January 4th, 2005, 05:27 AM

I have to admit, I did not expect these games to be quite as enjoyable as they were. I did anticipate having a wonderful time, but I became very captivated with them soon after I played the Sacred Cave one. Naturally, my overwhelming joy caused me to play not one, but six of them. :p

Keep in mind, if some of my wand cards sound like your sword cards and vise versa it's because of different elemental associations and the fact that some were switched within the suits to match up better, which I'm glad for.

Sacred Cave: This one immediately brought a smile to my face and I found it to be a very intimate yet welcoming spread. The cards were as follows and all quite accurate.

1.) Eight of Pentacles - Symbolic of my newfound dedication to the tarot and pursuing it passionately, but also the organization of my life in both grand and minute ways and the new care I am taking towards my items (had a disaster awhile back with some very precious possessions) as well as creating balance and solid foundations in my home life.

2.) Nine of Pentacles - Is it any surprise? I'm an extreme introvert. Being alone re-vitalizes me and gives me the energy I need to once again deal with you people. :lol: It also made a point to showcase that I feel best when I realize that there is love and companionship around me, yet not suffocating me and my individuality. Meditation and quiet reflection also serve to empower me and I tend to enjoy the simplest of things most of the time (such as tarot games!)

3.) Four of Cups - My own inner demons, hopes, and essentially my subconcious is the blanket I wear to keep me safe in life. Whether good or bad they're there to keep me on my toes and grounded. However, it also reflects my serious misanthropic nature and that I have a profound weakness for not seeing the good in other people, especially guys. What is almost eerie about this card is that on my natal chart at astro.com the advice they gave me to living a more harmonious life was realizing and seeing the good in things, particularly people if I recall correctly.

4.) The Lovers - A very pleasant surprise, which denotes my bond with my mother, my own self-love and my love for my faith is what gets me through each day and enjoying life.

5.) Eight of Wands - Pretty straight forward I thought in that I seek guidance, enlightenment, change and adventure in this life-or at least at this point in my life.

6.) Five of Wands - I force other people to think, to use their wits, and challenge all forms of thought as well as bring original thinking to the proverbial table of life.

Fish:

Cute game. Reminds me of Go Fish. Have to be careful with playing it though as if I think of Go Fish I'll start giggling and well... cards will wind up everywhere.

1.) Two of Swords - I am in no place to offer anything to the cosmos at this time. I am too preoccupied with my own analysis and hesitation towards where I want to go in the mundane world. However, if push came to shove, I would offer help to some degree.

2.) Queen of Pentacles - I'm very busy absorbing practical, mundane advice and information to better make my own life a smooth ride as well as deeply engrossed in my own physical body at this time health wise.

3.) King of Swords - I will eventually become quite powerful in my own right and find my own specific place in the world.

Birthday Game:

I wasn't really sure how to lay these out, so I just went with my intuition as the description in the link you provided didn't provide a clear enough image for me. It still went remarkably well, however, I feel.

The High Priest - A very simple, yet concise message. Discover new layers and levels of my own unique individuality and spirituality and embrace them with even greater passion than before.

Prosperity Game:

Like Rain, I did not receive one single pentacles card. However, I feel it was extremely accurate.

1.) Four of Wands - I am building strong foundations for future growth and quite content at where I am at the moment in all aspects of my life.

2.) Queen of Cups - My own vanity and need for reassurance regarding it can most assuredly cause me to come across as needy. I'm still removing some of the last layers of the ugly duckling syndrome I had all throughout school. Plus, I have libra in my chart a whopping five times, you better believe I'm going to be vain. ;)

3.) Queen of Swords - Blunt and to the point, power and confidence make me feel prosperous, and that covers power in every sense of the word.

4.) Ace of Cups - As my spirituality is being reborn yet again I must flow with it, embracing my own truths and discover a newfound sense of inner and outer beauty (ties into the health issues the Queen of Pentacles related a bit earlier).

Magic Sword:

I renamed this one to suit my own elemental and tool correspondences more appropriately... and held my breath to see what would unfold. I very much enjoyed it, however and decided to interpret every card I picked before selecting my sword (instead of wands) card.

1.) Temperance - Balance, moderation, and observing all angles of any situation, theory, problem, person and event is where some of my own personal power comes from.

2.) Death - Being very comfortable with change, death, rebirth and struggles (struggle being an interpretation more obvious with my own deck) is something I likewise draw a great deal of power from.

3.) Two of Swords - Surprise, surprise. The third card I pulled was a sword card. There it goes again, the number 3 just popping up in my life. ;) This card showcased that my critical thinking, thorough analysis, objectivity and mental agility is where I truly shine in this life. However, I think it demonstrates a major flaw within me as well, indecision and inaction. Seems this exercise shows our greatest strength and weakness at times.

Waxing Moon

I renamed this one too as I found it more appropriate. ;) This one gave me a bit of trouble as well as I wasn't quite sure what the hell it spoke of at first until it hit me that it was conveying a message about my tarot studies.

1.) Ten of Pentacles - Resourcefulness, determination and hard work are the foundations of my tarot studies.

2.) Page of Cups - My own intense study of psychic talents, the unconsciousness, altered states of conciousness, intuition, and so forth is what has helped to shape my skill with the tarot at this time.

3.) Four of Swords - At the center of it all though, time is required for my skill to truly develop and shine.

4.) Five of Pentacles - I should be wary of tradition, dogma, taboos and conventional thinking as I progress and shun it if it seems too oppressive and suffocating.

5.) Six of Cups - Lastly if things continue to progress as they are now it will lead me to bountiful psychic and emotional gratification and to a time where I can relax a bit more and further enjoy what I've developed (like more tarot games! :hehehehe: ).

Overall I found them to be very enjoyable, though I was a bit shocked to see so few major arcana pop up. Usually with me I get them left and right! Thanks for the games, Amethyst. I'm glad I'm such an extra credit whore now cause the extra credit definitely provided a lot of growth and insights. _pounce_

Amethyst Rose

January 4th, 2005, 12:53 PM

Excellent, Aidron!! Again and superb job. I saw the length of your answers and actually exclaimed outloud, "holy s#$%". :D

Everyone has been doing a really great job so far for these assignments. Anyone who doesn't see their name on the honor roll, it's probably because you didn't explain why you choose the ethics you did. *hint hint*

CanisFirebrand

January 4th, 2005, 01:57 PM

Here is my list for Part 1 of the assignment.

1) As a tarot reader, I cannot claim to know nor predict the future or events that may or may not occur.

The most important rule that I believe is making sure it is clear that while the tarot reading may give some insight into the present situation and can offer hints at an outcome, the persons future is shaped by their actions or lack thereof. The tarot should not be viewed as an absolute and I maintain that while it can be an indicator of potential paths, nothing is ever set. I would also make sure that the person wouldn't view me, as the reader, as someone special and whose word should be taken as gospel. Everyone can develop the ability to use the tarot, given time and effort.

2) Because tarot readings are prone to interpretation, I will strive to reveal truthfully what the cards revel and delicately reveal anything negative so that hope can be seen. I would never deceive nor withhold information for fear that the person seeking advice, etc would be emotionally traumatized or become irrational in hopes to stave off any ill outcomes.

People are rational beings. They do not like to hear bad news especially in regards to themselves. On the other hand, there is something to be said for having information to arm yourself to make better judgements. By default, I am an honest person and tell people what I am thinking or in my answers to their questions.
If the cards are showing overly positive images, I would convey that and make sure that the querant receives the full information revealed. If there are any negative draws or the entire reading has a negative tone to it, I would strive to deliver that information as delicately as possible to be truthful and not hide any information as well as showing that there could yet be hope. Which kind of relates back to rule 1.

3) I would respect anyone seeking a reading and not judge based on physical appearnaces nor the type of question or advice sought.

It is not my place to make a judgement call. If I were seeking a reading, I would be less likely to trust a person that would treat me and my reading different based on my appearnace or the type of information sought. Even if the person is someone I might not deal with nor like, there is always something to be learned from readings. Same goes for any types of questions that they may ask that I, as a reader, may not agree with or like. There needs to be a degree of professionalism. The person seeking your reading is putting trust in you that you will deliver a truthfull reading. They don't need the added worry/stress that you are judging them based on looks or questions.

4) Going along with #3, I will not prohibit anyone from seeking a reading. The only qualifier is that if the person is a minor, their parent/guardian is present and agrees or they have written permission to do so. If the parent/guardian is there and agrees verbally, I would give the reading to the minor in private unless the parent and minor agreed that they both should be present.

I think this one is pretty self explanatory. Everyone should be free to seek out a reading if they wish. Just because they might be underage, does not mean they should be barred if they have permission. Requiring permission shows a level of professionalism, to me, and goes a long way to giving some credit to readers. Parents are sometimes fickle and might be upset that a reading was done without there permission when otherwise, if they had prior knowledge, they would have agreed and been okay with it.

5) All readings will be confidential. I will never revel the type of question asked nor the information revealed to anyone but the person I am doing the reading for.

Privacy is a big issue with me. As hinted at above, it again lends a degree of professionalism. Just as doctors and lawyers are bound by confidentially agreements, I too would follow. Its a trust placed in me by the person and I would not want to betray that trust. The only disclaimer to that would be if I was served with papers by law enforcement and bound by other laws to reveal information asked/given. I think that is a standard clause in a lot of places that are covered by confidentially agreements.

6) I will treat my cards with respect and proper care.

Even though some may see them as just cards or a tool, they deserve to be treated with care and respect. That doesn't mean that they will be placed in a solid ivory box wrapped in the most expensive chinese silk and placed in a locked container.
But it does mean that I won't abuse them by bending or tearing them. Using them as coasters for drinks, that kind of stuff.
I would also ask that the person asking the question treat them with respect while shuffling them. Mainly just that they don't grate the cards against each other and destroy the edges.

7) Because information gained can become enthralling, I would limit the number of readings in a given month to no more then 2-3 depending on the person/situation.

I wouldn't want to become a replacement for actual advice from a doctor(say in the case of health tarot readings). I don't want to become a crutch that the person relies on and only does what they think they should do based on my readings. If I sense that a person is becomming dependant on the readings, I would try and work with them(without the tarot) to see if I can offer any help into the reasons why they are seeking so much advice. This would not, of course, take the place of proper types of advice. But sometimes just listening can help a person work through an issue and allow them to see the core problem.

8) I will never offer a reading when my mental ability isn't 100% nor read for anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs or when they are feeling ill.

Offering a reading while I was impared or ill would be dishonest of me because it could affect my interpretation of the cards. Also, it takes a good deal of mental ability to give a proper reading.
On the other side, I want to make sure the person asking for a reading is presenting themselves honestly and not using the experience as a joke or novalty.
If they are ill, I will not do a reading either as I wouldn't want to take any of their physical energy away from healing to do a reading. I feel that not only my personal energy goes into a reading, but so does the energy of the person I am reading for.

9) I will not do readings for a loved one, friend, family member, co-worker. I will only do a reading for the person present.

Because of the personal energy that I feel goes into a reading from both sides, doing a reading for someone not present wouldn't be as accurate. Not only that, but that person may have objections to a reading without them present or be opposed to tarot in general.

I'll answer Part 2 shortly.

I hope I explained my reasonings for each code of ethic.

Rowan MoonDragon

January 4th, 2005, 02:43 PM

Here are my Ethics so far. I may be amending them at a later date.

1. I will not tell someone what they want to hear. I will only tell interpret the cards for them.

I feel that if I tell a querant what they want to hear rather than what is in the cards, I am doing them a terrible disservice, even if they may not want to know whats going on. They need all of the information given in order to make informed decisions.

2. I will be very respectful of my client

I try to treat everyone with respect but a querant is my client. They came to me for a service and I will provide that service for them. That is what I expect from others therefore it is only logical that I do the same.

3. I will explain to the querant that a reading is not telling the future. It is only saying what may happen if they continue along the same course.

Many people think that a tarot reading is telling what will happen. It’s a definite. They have to know that they CAN change what happens by changing their course of action. Also, several outside things can happen to alter the course as well that may not be depicted in the cards. If they don’t like the reading that I give them, they have the power to change it.

4. I will not offer advice other than a tarot reading as I am not qualified to do so.

If I give advice regarding financial, legal or any other, not only am I leading the client astray but I can get my own butt in a sling.

5. I will keep everything that is said in a reading confidential

I feel this is respectful of the querant and I would also expect the same from others.

6. I will not read for minors

While I would be happy to provide my service for anyone, minors can not legally make some decisions for themselves. I would be stepping on the parent/guardians toes if I did this. I would not want someone to subject my children to something that I am not comforatable with therefore I will not do it to others. I would have no way of knowing how their parents/guardians feel about tarot and even though I may not agree with their thoughts on it I have to be respectful of their wishes.

7. I will not do a reading in ill health-mental or physical

This again is a terrible disservice to the querant. I am unable to give an accurate reading when I’m not healthy. My client is trusting me with a service and it is my job to give them the best possible reading that I can. A reading can be rescheduled.

badkitty

January 4th, 2005, 03:17 PM

Take 2

As I mentioned when I originally put some thoughts down, I wanted to revisit them. With the benefit of reading all of your answers and explanations, I have a couple more additions to go along with my explanations. I was actually surprised how little really changed though. I do want to thank Aidron, who had many ways of phrasing things that really resonated with me.

I am dividing these into areas-

Presenting the Tarot

#1 To present tarot as a tool for working with natural energys that we all can learn to work with.
Many have mentioned this. To present the cards as "all knowing" or ourselves as "all powerful" does a disservice to those who we are talking to. The cards are a tool for helping people and one of the greatest ways to help someone is to teach them to connect with the divine. Trying to keep this for ourselves encourages false ego, and also plays into using them as a tool to manipulate.

#2 To conduct and present myself in a caring, professional manner.
Many people have a negative impression of the cards and in my case pagans. Being a balanced, caring person, and following my path, and reading helps to encourage tolerance and understanding. Like it or not for me in a rural community being an open pagan, means that I am who many people think of when they hear about pagans. I think I thus have a responsibility to my community to try to be the most decent person I can be. If I started to publicly read often this would apply with that too.

#3 To honestly represent the limitations of the card and that the outcomes seen are not absolute, but open to influence.

Who to read for-

#1 To refer those who I feel too close to, to be objective to an alternate reader.
Although it is logical to start reading for those you are close to, it can be hard to stay objective on some readings. If that is the case I will admit it and refer someone on, rather than giving an biased reading.

#2 To only read for someone when it feels correct to, and say no if it doesn't.
If I don't feel comfortable reading the reading would be much less likely to have good information.

#3 No 3rd party
Goes with the confidentiality. I also wouldn't read for anyone else without their permission on my own.

While Reading-

#1 To always ground and center before reading.- This is huge and important and I don't know why I didn't think of it before. When people mention not reading till their drained, I think if I am well grounded while reading that is MUCH less likely to happen.

#2 To keep a list of resources on hand and refer those that need more assistance than I can provide to an alternate resource (this includes psychological, medical, addiction, etc.) As has been mentioned I am not a Doctor, Lawyer, Accountant, etc.

#3 To admit the things I am unsure of.
If I reach a card that isn't talking to me, I would say I am not getting a read on this right now, lets move by it, than I would try to go back at the end. If I still didn't get it, I would explain the basic meaning and card positions to the client and see if they had thoughts, but I would never say something I knew would fit into the spread or with what I knew about them just to avoid looking like I didn't know.

#4 To not charge more than is fair (I know broad and subjective)
To be honest under most circumstances I wouldn't charge, and would prefer to barter rather than charge. Under NO circumstances would I charge much.

#5 To treat those I am reading for with respect.

This covers non discriminatory decisions on reading, basic human compassion and decency.

#6 To treat myself with respect and not subject my self to emotionally or physically damaging environments.

Somewhat covered else where, but not feeling obligated to go or stay in a place that is unhealthy to me, or to interact with those who I feel are damaging.

Also not listening to those who would bash me or my practices. Ideally standing up to them with hopes of encouraging understanding. Minimally removing myself from their presence.

#7 To not use reading for someone to try to manipulate or take advantage of them in anyway (sexually, financially).

I mentioned financially before. Sexually is big for me on the ethics thing as when I was 19 my 50 year old tarot teacher saw "potential" in me and wanted to go out in the wood and bond psychically to "aid my development". I was just smart enough for it not to have gone too far, but wasn't smart enough for it to have not been a horrible experience.

After the reading-

#1 To thank the spirits that assisted me. It seems polite and appropriate to me.

#2 To keep reading confidential. I can't say I feel there are any exceptions I would make to this, though I understand why others have listed some. I believe in the right to die, and if someone wasn't at a rational enough point to chose that, I wouldn't be reading for them at all. I also suspect I would end up jailed if I ever got called to court.

badkitty

January 4th, 2005, 03:53 PM

As was mentioned Dorothy Morrison has a section in her book Tarot Magic for using the cards for self discovery.

This includes finding Spirit Cards, Lesson Cards, and Personal Year Cards. Mary K Greer also talks about Personality, Soul and Year cards in her book Tarot for Your Self.

These cards are meant to provide self awareness, and deal with purposes in life, and core qualities you possess.

All of the cards used are in the major arcana.

Morison sees your Sprit Card as your reason for being born or your purpose in life. Greer give the same meaning to the Soul Card.

According to Morrison

To find this you add the digits of your birth date together. Mine is 7/23/70-

7+2+3+1+9+7+0=29

If you get a number between 1-22 you use that major arcana card, using the fool for 22.

Since mine is over 22 I need to reduce by adding the digits.

2+9=11

Justice

Greer says that your Soul Card number has to be between 1-9 and you keep reducing till you have a number in that grouping. In her calculations my soul card number would be 1+1=2

The High Priestess.

Morrison also speaks of a lesson card. It is what you are meant to learn in your current life time.

Her lesson card is adding together the two numbers from your birthdate just like Greer does to find her Soul card number.

Greers personality card has a similar meaning but is calculated the way that Morrison's Sprit card is. Confused yet?

Basically they each have the same meanings and calculations, but they seem to be applying them in opposite ways.

They do however agree on year cards. The year cards are your tests, lessons and experiences for a year. They can be calculated from your birthday or by the 12 month calendar.

These are found by adding your birth date to the calendar year and reducing down to a number between 1-22.

Mine would be
7+23+1970+2005= 4005 4+5=9 The hermit (which is quite accurate)

To be honest I find these fun, I figured mine out for the first time more than 20 years ago, but the fact that they are said to be set for "this lifetime" makes me a bit nervous. I could see someone who was open to suggestion taking them to be more absolute than I see them as.

Rua

January 4th, 2005, 03:59 PM

1. Everything will be kept confidential.
What is said in a reading, stays in a reading. Its really no one elses business what the cards say. It is up to that person if they want to share it.
2. Only 2 readings per person per month.
This on really didn't occur to me until I read the lesson and now it really does make sense. I don't want someone depending on me to make decisions for their life.
3. Always be honest.
I will always truthfully say what i see in the cards. I wont let anyone pressure me into telling them what they want to hear.
4. Respect
Respect for the person I'm reading for and for myself. If i don't respect the person for what they are, then I don't think I will be able to give them an accurate reading. They also have to respect me and i have to respect myself otherwise I don't think i'll be able to do a propper reading.
5. No readings under the influence of anything.
No alcohol, no drugs. And if im feeling depressed or am hurt, then no readings either.
6. No minors.
I think its pretty self explaining.
7. I dont tell the absolute future.
I cant tell you what lottery numbers to pick or when you are going to die. I can tell what I am reading at that very moment but the future is not set in stone.

Thats all I can think of right now.

Amethyst Rose

January 4th, 2005, 04:04 PM

I liked the way you put your ethics into groups, badkitty, that works really well!

FYI: If anyone was wondering, I'll be putting names on the honor roll once the entire assignment is completed.

Rua

January 4th, 2005, 06:49 PM

Using the Tarot for Meditation

We may use the tarot as a meditation device in a number of ways. If we work just with the twenty-two cards that make up the major arcana, we can work our way through the sequence of images as a spiritual journey. With the minor arcana we have images that can represent the individual or those close to her.

In general, swords may stand for a cold logic and consequently for controversy. The cards in this suit tend to have a more negative feeling; they suggest the alienation that results when the cutting power of the mind is used selfishly. Think here of the airy characters of Hamlet and Daedalus--even of Joyce's Stephen Dedalus.

Wands also suggest force but in a more positive manner. There is the continuing idea of growth even if accompanied with struggle. Here is the world of Prometheus, the field of action for the adventurers and the investors, all those fiery souls who take risks and may find themselves burned.

Cups have always suggested the things of the heart, the flow of our emotions and also our spiritual leanings. Here we are in the world of the knight in shining armor, whether Sir Galahad or Don Quixote.

With pentacles we find Everyman, who believes only in what he sees. There is here the idea of propserity, whether material or spiritual, and I have often taken pentacles to indicate the pursuit of magic just as I identify cups with mysticism.

The pages in each of these suits may be taken to represent a person's basic temperament, the knights his style of activity, the queens his developed personality, and the kings his status. The ace sums up the entire mood of the suit, and the cards from two to ten represent the progression from uncertain beginnings to completed activity. Twos reflect ambiguity, threes a temporary resolution, fours a situation where things are "squared away," fives a period of crisis, sixes a balance of sorts, sevens a time of waiting, eights a time of renewed activity, nines the results of this activity, and tens a final outcome.

I got this from:
http://www.palehorse.spiritualitea.net/tarot.htm

Im having a hard time finding info on this for some reason. When i find more, my assignment will be better, have more info.

Rain Gnosis

January 4th, 2005, 07:18 PM

The problem with that is that it can be illegal to read for a minor, especially if you're charging for readings. It can be considered the same thing as contributing to the delinquency of a minor (the same charge you'd get by teaching them about a religion).

Thanks for explaining. I thought there might be some legal issue, but wasn't sure, and at the time I didn't see anyone mention that as their reasoning. Also, I reasoned, I won't be charging for readings or doing them for people I don't know, so legal issues shouldn't be too much of a concern for me personally.

Shana-chan

January 4th, 2005, 07:53 PM

Homework!

Part One: My Code of Ethics

As I doubt that I will ever read for money, I don't have too many codes that I want to stick myself to (I especially won't say that I won't be a counselor. My soul itself is very sympathetic to people, and I -will- help someone if they ask for it), but I do have a couple that are very personal to me.

1. I will not read for my husband, and I will not read for myself. I will, however, ask the cards questions, especially if they don't apply to me directly.

2. If I'm reading for someone in my family, or one of my friends, I will hear the question first, and then decide whether or not to read for them (this also gives me a moment to concentrate on the question ^-^ ).

Otherwise, I don't have too many things I stick myself to. If I read for more people, the list would grow to something like this:

3. I will be completely honest in my readings, and speak whatever my cards tell me.

4. I wouldn't give counselling advice until the cards are back in one pile, and the person asks for help. ^-^;

5. I would only read for people over the internet after chatting "live" with them for a while.

6. Lastly, I wouldn't be prejudice about anyone while reading the cards for them. Afterwords, all bets are off! <.<;; ^_^;

Part Two: The Games?! o.o ^_^

[I will add to this post very shortly, I promise]

Ivy Artemisia

January 4th, 2005, 08:13 PM

Part 1
Code of Ethics

Every reading given will be confidential, between the reader and the client.
I believe that like counseling, readings should be confidential. The client’s questions, situations and resolutions are no one else’s business. I feel that trust is imperative in all spiritual situations.

I will always be upfront with the client about my knowledge of the divinatory tool.
I’ve been doing ‘practice’ readings for people, especially online, and I personally wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t disclaim that I’m using my notes. Like I said before, trust is imperative.

I will not do readings regarding the subjects of death, how long do I (or so-and-so) have to live, do I have a deadly disease, etc.
I will read on the subject of health, but I won’t on the specific subject of death. There is too much responsibility that goes hand-in-hand with this. If I was to read the cards that say they have three weeks to live (or whatever), they might do crazy, life-threatening things… if I read that they had YEARS to live, they may put off creating a will, etc.

I will treat every client with respect, regardless of race, color, creed, religion or disability.
Respect goes along with trust. The way I live my life involves respecting others. However, if I felt as though they were dangerous, or if my instincts told me to not read for them, I wouldn’t.

I will be truthful in all my readings.
Part of being respectful to the client is acknowledging that the client came to you for information, and they deserve that information. The client is taking responsibility for that information. Its all about trust. I will always be diplomatic, without sugar-coating information, but I will always tell the truth.

I will limit the amount of readings I perform for each client.
Depending on the client, I will limit the amount of readings performed, so that the client does not become dependant on the readings.

I will not take manipulate or advantage of my clients.
I will not let them pay too much for readings, and I will not take advantage of their hospitality, or any other service offered by the client.

I will only read when I am able to read with a clear mind, and open heart.
I won’t read if I can’t do it with a clear mind, its not fair to the client and not fair to myself or the art of Tarot reading. They don’t deserve a muddled reading. I also won’t read if I’m myself, sick, as I want to do the best reading that I can for the client.

I will not claim to be able to tell the future.
The cards show only what may be, not what WILL be. I refuse to act as though the future is set in stone.

I will not knowingly read for a minor without written parental consent.
While minors deserve readings as much as the rest of us, in these lawsuit-ridden days, it’s just not smart. Its tough to know online, however, if your client is under 18, or over 18. I have done a lot of online readings, and you really never know. That’s why I put “knowingly.”

Ivy Artemisia

January 4th, 2005, 08:14 PM

Tarot in Spells

Tarot cards can be a great catalyst in spellwork. I feel as though they have great transformative properties. I did a little online research on tarot spells (it was WAY more difficult than I expected) and this is what I came up with:

“When you give a tarot reading you channel energies from the universe towards yourself. You use the cards as indicators of what the universe tells you. If you do a spell with the tarot you use the cards as energy filters. They represent the energies that you are about to send off. I have mentioned above that each tarot card is a archetypal symbol that represents a field of experience or a function or an idea. To combine tarot cards means to combine ideas. Consequently the tarot cards are an ideal tool to creatively act upon your universe in magical operations.” http://www.beyondweird.com/tarotcards2.html

I agree with most of this… I feel as though you can choose a card that represents your goal and use it as a focus during the rest of your spell, or as a starting place for a meditation within a spell. I don’t know if I’d use the term energy filters, I look at it as an energy magnifier.

There were lots of ways out there to use tarot in spells, from choosing a card before meditation (http://www.talisman.net/tarot/spells.html) to tarot love spells with intricate altar arrangements (http://www.geocities.com/lavenderwater37/tarot_love_spell.htm) and I remember seeing once a spell where you burned a chosen tarot card!

I really liked the following from http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/16969/95688:
1. Choose an indicator card that represents you and one or two other cards that represent what you would like to achieve. Place them side by side.
2. When you feel you've connected your energy to the cards, stack them together. Bind them with thread in a color that represents your goal.
3. Sleep with the bound stack of cards under your pillow to blend them on a nightly basis with your subconscious energy.

In addition to using this idea for spellwork, I think it’s a great way to connect with your cards. I'm looking for more information to add. :)

blackcatwiccan01090

January 4th, 2005, 08:55 PM

MY CODE OF ETHICS

1. I will not lie about what the cards show me
2. I will keep a professional relationship between me and those I'm reading
3. I will not use the information cards show me against the subject I'm reading
4. I will keep all readings between me and the person I'm reading
5. I do not know the future but I can predict what may happen
6. I will never deny what the cards tell me
7. I will never ever read from a question that is illegal, immoral, ect.
8. I will not judge the person I'm reading or anyone else

I will add to my code, but this is what I have for now

Anubis RainHawk

January 5th, 2005, 01:03 AM

Thanks for explaining. I thought there might be some legal issue, but wasn't sure, and at the time I didn't see anyone mention that as their reasoning. Also, I reasoned, I won't be charging for readings or doing them for people I don't know, so legal issues shouldn't be too much of a concern for me personally.

I also thought it was kind of strange, especially since I'm a teen myself. That's like saying I should read for adults, but not for friends my age. However, money wouldn't be involved and either way, they are A.R.'s ethics and not mine (at least not at the moment).

Anubis RainHawk

linaXgrazzada

January 5th, 2005, 02:59 AM

Assignment 2-
My code of ethics

I. I will not read for anyone who id do not know is ready, maturity wise, for what the cards will reveal.
II. I will not give advice of any kind, in will only be an interpreter of the cards.
III. I will not ask any personal questions without permission, and only to help in my interpretation.
IV. I will not judge anyone.
V. I am not a fortune teller and I cannot predict future events. I can just predict things that may happen based on the present.
VI. I will not accept payment for my readings.

Part 2- I decided to research the meditation. I decided the best way to research it was to try it and for the last couple of days I have been. As soon as I get out of bed I sit on the floor, clear my mind of all drama as I shuffle the deck and I think of the day ahead and the plans I’ve made. Then I pick one card and try to interpret how its meaning might effect my day. I looked at a lot of “daily” spreads and tried them out also. I found that taking the time out from my hectic morning was relaxing and my mind seemed to absorb the meaning of the card better.

http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/learn/spreads/daily.shtml

extra credit will be coming soon!

alli
jan 4th 2005
c/o 2@@5! Rock on!

Raven Reed

January 5th, 2005, 03:53 AM

Code of Ethics

1. Legality:

-I will not read for minors without face-to-face approval from a guardian.
This is obvious. It is simply illegal to read for minors. Besides, I would not like my child to do something like this without my knowledge or approval.

-I will not present myself as knowledgeable in anything other than tarot.
This falls under respect, legality and CYA. I do not wish to set myself up for legality problems if someone feels I counseled them on legal, financial, health or other such issues when I have no knowledge in those areas.

-Readings will be held confidential unless there is a clear, physical danger to someone, or if court ordered to divulge information.
I don’t want to be responsible for someone coming to serious harm if I can help avoid it. I will report child abuse. As far as I know, Tarot Readers have no confidentiality immunity in the courts. I do not wish to go to jail over a tarot reading. I will comply with court mandate in the unlikely event I should be called upon to do so.

-I will not advise or assist anyone on illegal action.
This is a case of CYA. Besides, it is a moral thing for me as well. I try to be a good little citizen and would feel uncomfortable in myself helping someone else break the law.

2. Respect:

-I will respect my clients by holding their readings in confidentiality except where stated above.
People seek out reading for many reasons and should be afforded the respect of privacy, IMHO.

-I will read for a client regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, etc.
This is professional and fair.

-If I am unable to read for someone due to a personality conflict, I will be honest enough to let him or her know that I have a problem and cannot read. I will not attempt to read if my prejudices will muddy the reading.
We can’t like everyone, and I have a strong personality. Sometimes, I just clash with another, and would never want that to interfere with my reading for that person. That is unfair to the client and not the client’s fault.

-I will not become a crutch for someone.
So many people feel that tarot readers hold all the answers. I am not willing to let someone live their life through the cards nor am I willing to subject myself to that kind of neediness. I do not know, at this point how often I would read for someone, but I will know if there is a problem. Probably, I would take this on a case by case basis.

-No third party readings.
A person's search for truth should be personal. I don't feel that I should do a reading for someone who isn't there to gain full knowledge of the information I dispense or have any say in the reading.

Should I ever read professionally, I am sure this list will change with experience.

Raven Reed

January 5th, 2005, 04:55 AM

Self-Actualization

Tarot can be very useful in creative visualization, or creative imagery to reinvent the self. It is also useful in accessing things buried deep within the subconscious. So it is helpful in the path to self-actualization. Dr. Abraham Maslow invented the term self-actualization and explained it thus, “A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be. This is the need we may call self-actualization ... It refers to man's desire for fulfillment, namely to the tendency for him to become actually in what he is potentially: to become everything that one is capable of becoming ..." Dr. Jung referred to a supreme state in which all parts of the mind operated as one.

Symbolism is the language in which the unconscious mind operates. “The symbols on the [tarot] cards call forth the pure, untainted archetypal experiences associated with the cards, which are embedded in your unconscious, and then activates those concepts.” So says author Geraldine Amaral. By mediating on the cards, or placing them about the house, we invest the mind in the imagery, allowing access to the unconscious. Since the archetypes on the cards portray life experiences that are universal, we are able to bypass the logical mind more effectively and access the associated strengths from deep within.

Tarot provides us with the feeling that we have the control to affect our inner and outer being, that we can make changes to achieve our goals and wants. By selecting cards depicting inner or outer qualities we wish to develop, such as wisdom from the Hermit or the Emperor to improve organizational skills, we can take charge of our lives. By attempting to integrate these qualities into our psyche, we more closely achieve self-actualization.

In addition, as we see the cards that appear frequently in our readings, or meditate on the cards, we can see if they call into attention internal conflicts such as repressed fears and subconscious motives that affect the future by affecting our unconscious decisions. Unrecognized, these fears and motives seek recognition by affecting our day-to-day life. Each tarot archetype runs the gamut of positive to negative and everything in between. Geraldine Amaral says that, “The gift of the archetype is a useful, helpful and hopeful explanation that can show us a way to live more successfully. The shadow is a more negative interpretation and usually shows a darker aspect of the psyche, a piece that most of us would rather not admit that we have.” By noticing which archetypes stir feelings, we can allow those internal conflicts to come to light. By recognizing and dealing with these internal conflicts we move further and further toward self-actualization.

http://www.tarotcelebrations.com/Get%20the%20Picture.htm
http://www.tarotcelebrations.com/Magician's%20Altar.htm
http://www.tarotcelebrations.com/Living%20from%20Within.htm
http://www.performance-unlimited.com/samain.htm

Raven Reed

January 5th, 2005, 05:54 AM

I did three games. Here are my results and my interpretation...

WITCH’S HAT

-CARDS 1 and 2: The brim of your hat, these cards will give you information on what you need in order to take flight, to send your energy out.

Six of Cups and The Moon - I need to let go of some old, emotional childhood issues that I have been working on.

-CARDS 3 and 4: The Cone; the sides of your hat that lead up to the point, these cards tell you where your power lies or what to do in order to feel strong

Wisdom(High Priestess) and 10 of Swords-reversed - Take control of my reality and end a cycle I have been going through.

-CARD 5: The Point; what you need to send out into the universe, or where you've been aiming. If you don't like the look of this card, examine the others for ways to change it.

Strength - Compassion for self and others.

FISH

-CARD 1: Worm - What I have to offer the universe at this time

King of Staves - Deciding to take charge.

-CARD 2: What I catch from the cosmic pool

Magic (Magician) - Creating my own reality or perhaps a new direction in life.

-CARD 3: What I'll make of it.

Love (Lovers) – Harmony with others around me, perhaps a new relationship.

MAGIC WAND

I turned over six cards before I found my wand…

Four Of Swords – reversed, Temptation (Devil), The World – reversed, Two Of Pentacles, Five Of Pentacles – reversed.

Recuperation, confronting temptation, need to learn from experiences, juggling money (!), financial difficulty (!).

Wolfscout1

January 5th, 2005, 08:38 AM

Lesson 2 - Assignment -- This assignment has two parts, and it must be completed by Monday, January 10th.

1. Create your own code of ethics. Tell me why you chose the ethics you did.
2. Do reseach on one of the alternate uses of Tarot besides divination. Tell me everything you can about it. Oh, and don't forget to cite your sources.
Extra Credit: Play one of the games I listed in the games post. Tell me about your results.

Part one ---
1. I will only read for someone if they full understand it’s not about the future but present situation and that how it affects the future may change depending upon their actions with the coming knowledge.
2. fees if any will be more than fair for the user. I rarely charge for healings and other things I do.
3. no more than 2 readings per moon cycle time per individual.
4. will not read for a third party any further that what it is that will influence the user. ( and that is situational)
5. will not be swayed by those who wish to rely on this learned gift as a means for everything. Will stop reading for that type.
6. will make sure they understand that I read for a guide not as advisement or compelling one to do something.
7. Will not be pressured to do anything I do not wish , nor will I pressure anyone .
8. until I have more experience that is the list so it can grow and adapt as I do.

CanisFirebrand

January 5th, 2005, 09:13 AM

Lesson 2 - Part 2

Brief history and the relation to Tarot based divination:

In 1781, the tarot saw a sort of rebirth and the beginnings of its usage as a divinatory tool began. These were attribted to Antioine Court de Gebelin.

de Gebelin believed that the tarot was Egyptian in origin as well as believing that it contained mystical knowledge that was encoded in rich symbolism of the trump cards. He believed that the trumps were the key to lost Egyptian magical wisdom that was originally written by Thoth, the Egyptian god of written knowledge.

From that point in time, the trump cards began to change based on the people producing the decks.

In 1770, the first account of divination using the tarot was attributed to the cartomancer Jean-Baptiste Alliette, also known as Etteilla. He published divinatory meanings for each of the cards, though his deck only included 32 cards plus a card to represent the querent. This was done with regular playing cards. Published works that involved tarot trumps came later. The writings coincided with deGebelin's theory that the tarot was derived from Egyptian occult. Etteilla's deck was the first deck available to the public expressly for the purpose of cartomancy.

Arthur Edward Waite is credited with the renaissance of the Tarot in the Twentieth Century. He commissioned artist Pamela Coleman Smith to create what he called the "rectified" Tarot. Created by a member of secret societies also known as a revered mystic, Waite's version has been widely accepted as the standard, and is by far the most popular deck of the century, rich in symbolism and easily understood due to the simple nature of the artwork.

In the opinion of many learned Tarot enthusiasts, the most significant change the deck has experienced is Smith's treatment of the Minor Arcana. Hers are the first cards to contain images depicting the meaning of the cards. These graphics allow readers to explain the significance of each cards nuance to querents who, in most cases, have never encountered the cards before. This artistic trend can be traced through the majority of the decks produced after the Rider-Waite (1910), and Smith's influence is readily recognized, as many of the images echo her drawings.

Tarot and its uses in divination:

Tarot cards are used to present a picture of a possible outcome based on present facts and situations. The cards are used by the reader to gage, based on the querent's question, actions and motivations, where a possible outcome could lead. Because of this, many people see the tarot as a way to predict the future. However, tarot cards only give a glimpse of what might come to be. Outcomes and predicitons can and often change based on the actions of the person the reading is for. I liken the thought to this. If the querent does nothing to alter their course, the reading can be seen as fairly accurate as nothing would change to prevent the outcome.

A person is the only one that can effect their future. Every action causes changes and there is no true way to accurately predict an outcome. The tarot can give a good glimpse at what might come to be.

There are many different spreads for reading the tarot for many differnt situations/question types.
The reader may also use no spread at all and just lay cards out until they feel that a picture has been presented.

The reader is using their intuition and knowledge of the symbolism in the cards to paint a picture for the querent. Each card, when viewed with the others, gives more detail to the story presented.

Each card has a distint meaning, though that meaning will vary from reader to reader. This is because each person interprets the symbolism in the cards differently. Many books give general agreed upon meanings for the cards. However, these are not hard facts. Readers will rely on their intuition to know what a card is telling them.

When a spread is used, each card drawn has a specific meaning and the reader uses the card to answer that meaning.

For instance, in a spread dealing with career situations, one of the card positions might deal with influences surrounding your present sitation. The card drawn would be used to explain some of the forces effecting the person in their present career.

To me, even though there are many uses for the tarot, the most popular use remains divination.

Sources:

http://www.salemtarot.com/tarothistory.html
http://roswell.fortunecity.com/leehigh/340/shadow/shadow2.htm

I'll be doing the extra credit later tonight as I want to have a little bit of fun working with my new deck. I'll post my results then. :)

CanisFirebrand

January 5th, 2005, 09:14 AM

Doh. :(

I just noticed the actual post in the one above mine. I missed the "besides divination" part.

I'll research another use in a bit, when I have a free moment again.

Amethyst Rose

January 5th, 2005, 12:40 PM

Doh. :(

I just noticed the actual post in the one above mine. I missed the "besides divination" part.

I'll research another use in a bit, when I have a free moment again.

:lol: That's okay. You did a lot of work to research all of that, and I appreciate that. I won't hold it against you if you don't have the time to do more...but it will lower your grade slightly. So it's up to you. :)

CanisFirebrand

January 5th, 2005, 01:23 PM

Lesson 2 - Part 2 - Part Deux(because I apparently cannot read the entire assignment line. :lol: )

Tarot for meditation.

The entire of the major acrana(in those tarot decks based on Waite as far as I have seen) tells a story.

Each card is a snapshot in that journey and can be used to focus and meditate upon. Meditation can be done in a number of ways and the intents can be varied as well.

You could meditate upon one card a day, in succession, until you have meditated upon all the major arcana cards. You could very well draw a random card each day, kind of like a card of the day, and meditate upon that. Using the random card each day, you could carry it further to see what kind of day you might be in for. That way, you can reflect upon the card at the end of the day to see if your meditation and expectancies for the day matched the card. It would also be a very good way to get a feel for what kind of information each card provides to you.

If your life is hectic, and you do not have a set period of time to sit and meditate, you could draw a card and meditatie on it throughout the day, when you have a spare moment.

Another use for meditation would be focused meditation. Meaning that if you have a specific intent in mind, you could select what you feel is the best card for it, and meditate on that.
For instance, if you were having some issues in a relationship with a spouse/partner, you might draw and meditate upon the lovers card.

You might also wish to do a spread for yourself and use that as a meditiation exercise while you look over each of the cards drawn. It could be used to simulate a guided meditation in that the cards drawn paint a story for you that you visualize while doing your meditation.

Sources:

http://www.empathys.co.uk/57.html
http://www.brooksny.net/tarot/tarotmeditation.htm
http://www.tarotcelebrations.com/Meet%20Your%20Mentor.htm

I will do the extra credit as well, whether I need it or not. The ones you posted do sound fun. And it will be a chance to work with my new deck, which I haven't yet. Well, I have looked through each card a few times already viewing the beauty of the artwork. :)

Amethyst Rose

January 5th, 2005, 02:09 PM

Thank's Canis! Good work :)

Rowan MoonDragon

January 5th, 2005, 03:12 PM

Past life readings can give much insight to who you are today by finding out who you may have been in the past. They can provide information regarding mental and physical health, connections to people in your current life, and even destructive issues. Just like any other tarot reading, each position in the layout has a meaning and you interpret the cards based on the layout. There are several spreads to choose from or you may form your own. The best way for me to explain about past life readings is by showing a sample spread This is a spread that I found online…. Remove the Fool card from the deck and put it aside. Draw 9 cards and include the Fool card which represents the point at which the question originated. Lay the cards out into 3 rows of 3.

1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9

First row – current lifetime
Middle row - recent past lifetimes
Bottom row- several older lifetimes

1 - the end or later years of this lifetime or the relationship in this lifetime.
2 - the middle years or more mature part of the relationship
3 - beginning of the relationship or the first encounter with the question in this lifetime

The cards move into the more distant past as you move to the right and downward.

When the Fool card appears, you place the next card on top of it.. If it appears in the top row that would mean that the origin of the question originated . If it appears in one of the bottom 2 rows then the question originated in a past life. Cards above and to the left of the Fool card represent lifetimes associated with the question and cards to the right and below the fool do not pertain to the question and can be discarded.

First determine the position of the fool then read the cards about and to the left in sequential order, from oldest to youngest, starting with the card that is with the Fool. In the upper row, there may be a couple of cards that represent things that haven’t happened yet. Reading the cards in order will provide a brief synoposis of the persons experiences with the question in past lifetimes and in this lifetime.

Sometimes the lifetime that the Fool appears is sometimes the first lifetime that they encountered the person or issue. And sometimes the lifetime before that the sould may have completed a previous cycle and set themselves up to experience to happen. You can usually tell by what card is above the fool. For example, if Judgement, Death or 10 of Pentacles, if may be that that lifetime was spent completing whatever they were doing and it was between lifetimes that the decision was made to try and initiate this relationship.

Again, there are many different spreads and this is just one of them. Some of them have more cards and are more detailed others are smaller like this one. With practice and knowing the cards, past life readings can not only be informative but entertaining as well.

http://www.goddessflight.com/pastlifereading.html
http://www.tarotmoon.com/articles/Past_Life_I/past_life_i.html

I will also be doing the extra credit but probably not until tomorrow. Just hought I'd let you know you'd see me again in this assignment. :fprtyman2

Amethyst Rose

January 5th, 2005, 04:19 PM

I will also be doing the extra credit but probably not until tomorrow. Just hought I'd let you know you'd see me again in this assignment. :fprtyman2

Okay! Thanks! Good job on part two, by the way, I've seen that spread before, I think, but have never used it.

piglet

January 5th, 2005, 09:48 PM

Tarot reading ethics and conduct:

-I will never present a negative without also presenting a positive or possible solution.

I do not want any reading to be a negative experience for myself or the person I am reading for. Also, I would not want to give anyone the impression that any situation in their lives or indicated by the cards is insurmountable or unchangeable.

-I will be aware of the feelings of the person I’m reading for.

This relies heavily on my next point as I would not be able to have this awareness if I am in a less than adequate state of mind. I don’t want my readings to be one-sided; I also want to sense what the querant is feeling and going through so that I can be compassionate toward them and give a more informed reading.

-I will only do readings for other people if I am in an acceptable state of mind.

This would involve me being centered, grounded and confident. If I was not “up to par” at the time of giving a reading, my ability to do a good job would suffer.

-I will not do a reading if I am not comfortable with any of the circumstances (the person I am reading for, the environment, myself) .

This point is linked to the one above as well, but with more emphasis on the overall situation.

-I will not misrepresent my own abilities or experience with tarot cards, nor do I propose to be able to know the future or have access to any “mystical, secret” knowledge unavailable to the client or “regular people”.

Not only is this not true, in my opinion, but this idea would put myself in an elevated position in the eyes of the querant which could lead to problems such as them not using their own intuition and critical thinking regarding their reading.

-I will tell the truth when doing a reading.

This is self-explanatory; if I was anything less than honest I would be going against my own personal morals and I would not be helping the querant.

-I will not let my personal feelings and opinions influence any readings I give.

I can see myself having a problem with this if I am involved in the life of the person I am reading for. I am looking forward to the lesson on giving readings as I would like to learn more about how to avoid doing it. This is why I don’t see myself giving readings to close friend and family members until I am more experienced :)

Writing this list was a very valuable and informative experience and I’m very happy that I did it. Once I have more experience and know more about what to expect during a reading, my list will probably grow and change.

Shatril

January 5th, 2005, 10:31 PM

Tarot Code of Conduct and Ethics

a) To act in a strictly trustworthy and unbiased manner.
b) To maintain confidentiality; not to disclose the content of the reading, or any part of them, or any other information gained in the course of an a reading
c) Not to act in any way prejudicial to my reputation or interests of the client.
d) Be responsible and cautious of how I present a reading so as not to jeopardize the well being of any client.
e) To read the cards as they are presented without bias or prejudice.
f) Keep my own projections out of the readings. If my own stuff is coming out of the reading end the process right there.
g) Always begin a reading by grounding and centering and a short meditation to clear my mind.
h) I will always explain the difference between reading the tarot and foretelling the future.
i) I will not and cannot give medical, legal, or financial advice, as I am not qualified in those areas.

Karmic/Past Life Tarot

I researched several types of spreads for this and found that most are working on the same kind of things. Who were you in past life, what did you do, what were your circumstances, what was the lesson, and how did the lesson play out. The other things that some of the spreads would actually include were how these were effecting this life, and what this life purpose was. Since there wasn’t much information on this in my books, and I was extremely interested in this, I decided just to chose one of the spreads and do my reading. This is the sight where you can get more information on the spread: http://www.tarotmoon.com/articles/Past_Life_II/past_life_ii.html

The reading went as follows:
xxx9xxx10xxx
xx8xxxxx11xx
x7xxxxxxx12x
xxxxx1xxxxxx
1xxxxxxxxxx6
xx2xxxxxx5xx
xxx3xxxx4xxx

7-11—Represent a recent lifetime
1-5—Represents a more distant lifetime
12 & 6—show how these things are manifest in this life
13—current life purpose

Read from 1 to 13 in order.

1=World—This is who I was and what circumstances. It would seem that I was in good circumstances. Maybe a leader of some sort.
2=Magician—What I did with this life time. This reinforces the probability that I was a leader of some sort, this does not mean leader of nation, just like even a Matriarch of a family. Maybe with some occult knowledge (sage woman)
3=three of swords—life purpose of past life—It would seem that I was there to learn about the pain of family disharmony, heartbreak and sorrow.
4=nine of Pentacles—show whether the purpose was attained.—The card means good results, so I assume that my purpose was fulfilled.
5=Queen of Wands—what was carried forward to this life—Displays self-confidence (even when I’m not), generosity, burning passion, spontaneous. (I can safely say this is me.
6=four Swords—Shows how they manifest in this life—Under pressure, pacifism, retreat, Rest and Recovery. My life is rather this way. Maybe this is the calm before another storm for me.
7=The Sun— This is who I was and what circumstances.—It seems that I had some charisma in this life, people trusted and followed me. Had loving relationships with family and friends.
8=Judgment— What I did with this life time.—I literally think I was a judge.
9=five swords— life purpose of past life—It would appear that I was probably a politician and would guess that I was somehow here to learn about hollow victory and deceipt (like Watergate kind of stuff). Maybe to learn humility and how to cultivate win/win situations
10=The Chariot— show whether the purpose was attained—I’d say that I achieved this goal triumphantly.
11=six swords— what was carried forward to this life —Dependence on others.
12=three swords— Shows how they manifest in this life—self-pity, betrayal by people I trust and depend on. This is so very true.
13=King swords—Current life purpose—It seems that my purpose is to be a philosopher (not by profession). Protect and defend. (that has been something that I have done all my life with people who I see as being treated unfairly.)

Well anyway, this became much longer than I had anticipated. I gave one reference above my other one is http://67.19.40.82/showthread.php?t=27776

I will do the extra credit if I have time. This research and the spread took a long time to do. I'm still not confident about what this spread really told me. I would love to have an experienced reader interpret this.

Shatril

Flaire-FireStar

January 5th, 2005, 11:06 PM

1. State that I cannot fortell the future.
As the future is not set one way or another, I will make it known to my clients that whatever I see in the cards is how their future will turn out if they proceed along the same path as they are currently on.

2. State that I am not a professional doctor, lawyer, etc.
What I see in the cards is no substitute for real professional help from one who is qualified in said field. What I see is merely advice. If such a circumstance comes up, I will suggest, first, that a person seek professional help instead of a reading if need be.

3. To be completely unbiased in my readings.
Because I find that if I am close to a person, I will not read for them (and charge). I may find that the path in the cards is what I am hoping for for the person. I will refer to another reader if such a circumstance arises.

4. To read for a person once/month.
As I have seen a person ask me for readings constantly in earlier times, I will suggest that they wait for the cards to fall (so to speak) as in the first reading. I will not stand to have a person abuse the use of the cards.

5. To treat all clients fairly.
At best, to be completely unbiased and harbor no ill will toward a client. If such a circumstance arises where I cannot, I will refer to another reader. Also will take clients from all walks of life.

6. Admit when I am confused.
I am not psychic. I do not know everything. And somtimes the cards are not clear. I will let my client know as much.

7. I will uphold client confidentiality.
Whatever is said between myself and a client, whatever is in the cards, is between myself, the cards, and the client.

I'd like to note that I didn't put age in my ethics because I have, on occasion, read for minors. I do not intend to charge for my readings (as mainly I do them on MW...) so I find no problem in this.

Flaire-FireStar

January 5th, 2005, 11:51 PM

In the 15th Century, Tarot games began, called Tarocchi, originating in Italy. The Tarot was one of the earliest games to use Trump cards. Some Tarot games are point-trick games, in which each card is assigned a number of points, and a trump card must be played if the player does not have the suit played.

http://www.pagat.com/tarot/

There are also games to help people learn the Tarot. In Tarot Charades, for example, one person from each team chooses a card at random. The player then acts out the card in such a way as to get the team mates to guess which card they are playing. They can do it either one of two ways: the traditional using no words, but miming the picture literally, or to behave according to the card's qualities (being able to speak.)

A variation of Tarot Carades, developed by Helle Agathe Beierholm, allows two people to play. Each choose a card, and without letting the other know which card they have pulled, they play the characteristics of the card that they have drawn. In essence, it is a roleplaying skit.

- "The Complete Illustrated Guide to Tarot" Rachel Pollack

Other games include Tarot Rummy, Liars Poker (Tarot Version), various role-playing/Charades games, Tarot Go Fish, Six Degrees of Brad Pitt (Revisited).

http://home.att.net/~jwricklef/Games.html

Aidron

January 6th, 2005, 12:16 AM

It didn't really hit me until today that I left out anything concerning confidentiality in my ethics, so here's a bit of an update as I feel like the assignment is incomplete until I add this.

12.)Insights the tarot reveals shall remain confidential for my part.

If the querent wishes to discuss what the tarot has revealed for them, so be it, however I will not divulge any information except in a general way, such as if I read for my mum and the cards showcased negative messages. I would no doubt mention to a friend something such as "The reading did revealed dark times ahead." and say no more. In keeping with my observance of these ethics 99.9% of the time I reserve the right to divulge any and all information should I feel it is necessary, but the circumstances would have to be most dire.

celticfire

January 6th, 2005, 12:37 AM

Assignment 2 Part 2
(***NOTE: i also edited my part one post***)

Tarot and Meditation

During the 20th century, the popularity of Tarot grew to astounding proportions. This was in part, mostly, to certain initiates of the Golden Dawn, namely Crowley, Fortune and Waite. It is because of the efforts of these members, along with others whom have contributed along the way, that the use(s) of Tarot Cards have become mostly commonplace and sometimes even complex. There are many uses for the Tarot, but the one that I found the most interesting, which I also knew/know the least about, is the use of Tarot for/with/during Meditation.

Some of the most profound information I found was written by John Gilbert, from the Tarot Institute. In some of his writings, he discusses three key elements in which he believes is the only way to have an effective and productive tarot meditation. The first element is that of intent. As with every day life, intent plays an integral role in all magick, in general. It is the balance of what we give out, we receive in turn. If the intent of our tarot meditation is one of good for another, then we can expect to receive a small part of good in return. But if our intent is one of harm and of malice, then instead of that going to the intended, it will remain with the meditator...only a small portion of that dark energy will actually be released upon the 'intended'. It is important to remember also that whatever our intentions are prior too and from the beginning of the meditation, then that is the end result (of aftermath) which we should expect.

The second key element Gilbert discusses is that of your own beliefs. This is basically the concept of whatever we believe will happn, will. But doesn't this disprove the first key element? I do not believe it does, because if we believe and intend to offer help, healing and hope through the meditation, then that is what will be received, by the intended. But again, if it is harm, hate, and malice that is the belief of what will occur, then that negative energy will be retained by the mediator. Again, intent plays a part but so does belief. Also, if we believe in ourselves, beyond all doubt, then the power of that meditation will be felt with a significant greatness compared to if there is little belief in the ability to achieve the goal.

The third and final key element Gilbert mentions is that of attitude. By approaching the tarot meditationwith arrogance and in a demanding tone, then it only leaves room for the powers to find a way to soften your demeanor. This is a basic life principal for myself as well. If we are proud (which is quite different from confident), then we should expect to be humbled. It should be with honor, but also with confidence, that we approach any act of divination, performance of ritual, or simple prayer, chant, or song. By doing so, it shows our respect and honor for magick and all it entails.

These are simply key elements thought of by one, to whom I share a belief in and have added to my own words. But as importantly as the key elements, is the type of tarot meditation you chose to practice. One meditation may be as simple as pulling one card from the deck and focusing your energies into it. Another requires you to become a part of the card and develope a relationship with the character within. Even another form of tarot meditation is that in which we ask the Universe to decide what card should be presented, and in turn which one will be able to best answer our question(s). One can also lay out a spread and meditate on a group(ing) of cards, that they may present guidance.

A technique I found most intriguing using tarot meditation is as follows:

Write out a question to be answered and then chose a card you feel will give you the answer(s) you seek. From here, study the card in great detail...imagine that you are entering the card and look around and see what its like to be inside the card. You are now part of the card itself (like stepping into a portrait). Now, approach the main character and speak to it. Ask if you have permission to ask your question. If the answer is no, then thank the character and leave the card. If the characters answers yes, then ask your question. Write down anything that comes to you or that the character says directly to you after asking your question. It does not matter what you're writing, you are in a different place...so simply write it all down. Once the character has finished, thank them and leave the card. Now, read over all that you wrote down while you were with the character. Correct any spelling (if necessary). As you read over the information given to you, think back to your question and see how it relates to the answer you received.

Tarot cards display a powerful array of psychic images in which one can learn from easily and effectively. Tarot meditation can be used to project one's self into the imagery of each card. This allows us to explore the imagery and to feel the symbolism represented in each card. It is also a way in which we can connect with our higher self. By utilizing two tools, both tarot and meditation combined, which allow us to access our subconcious or higher self, we aquire specific knowledge and information from our guides, the characters within the cards as well as the cards themselves, and the Universe. Not only is tarot meditation a tool in which to offer insight, answer questions or concerns or to provide guidance in life matters, but it also (and most importantly) a very distint tool in which beginners can learn more readily about their own tarot deck and the meaning of their cards. By studying and then visualizing (in our own mind) the specific images, symbols, and even hidden meanings, one can expect to retain that information while developing a relationship with your deck and in learning the Tarot.

resources:
www.johnankerberg.org/articles
http://groups.yahoo.com/tarotnews
www.supertarot.co.uk
www.mysticwicks.com
www.intuitivetarot.com

RhiamonButterfly

January 6th, 2005, 12:52 AM

Lesson 2 Homework:
Part 1:
Here is my Code of Ethics:
1) Only I handle my cards-
this way, only my energy is ever on the cards. This makes for easier cleansing, and more accurate readings if I do more than one at a time.
2) The less I know, the better
this helps me not to "read into" too much because of the added info. Plus the querent will be much more impressed with the reading ;)
3) I prefer a question to be asked or key words given
because it makes for a better reading if the querent gets what they were seeking, instead of a general reading that may not touch on this subject.
4) I do not use reversed meanings
I started out using them but after reading numerous books on how the author figures if it's in the cards, it will be an accurate reading whether or not the cards are reversed. I am testing this theory and so far so good. Also, this way, if a card is reversed, I take it that it has a special importance to the reading.
5) I will be truthful but tactful
this way, the querent doesn't freak out if I say "an illness or death" or something. I want to be honest but not scary.
6) My love for the tarot will always come before monetary gain
because then I feel that doing readings will become a chore, and not fun anymore
Part 2:
Alternate uses: Spellwork
First off, I picked this choice because right now it's a personal interest for me. Using Tarot in spells can be really useful as far as visualization goes. I am horrible at concentrating, and this gives me something to focus on during the spell. In fact, it can be used for spells, affirmations and even meditation. Anything that requires use of imagery. Cards can be used for their meaning and also for the pictures. For example, if my dog was sick, I could use a card like the Fool card because it has a dog depicted, or any card that has animals in general. I have written a spell to use as an example, but please bear with me, I am not noted for my spell writing abilities..lol
This would be a protection spell for my family during hubby's upcoming deployment overseas to keep us all safe and happy while he's gone, including him.
Tarot Protection:
Materials:
a black candle (for protection)
a white candle (for purity of heart and harmony)
the 10 of Cups (to represent our family)
*also, you can use any other tools you may want, including stones, incense, etc.
1) charge and dress your candles using any protection oil you have. Then put the white candle to the left of the tarot card, and the black candle to the right, then light them both.
Hold your hands, palms down, over the candles and card, and imagine energy from the candles, the card, and your hands all swirling up into the air and forming a protective circle around the family members. Imagine them all happy and safe. When you have this image, repeat the following:
"card of Tarot, guide us today
Candle burning, light our way
Protect my family night and day
All good spirits come to me
All bad spirits have to flee
Guard us all from negativity
With harm to none, including me
this spell is sealed, so mote it be!"
2) Let candles burn out on their own, and you can carry the card with you for as long as needed, or keep it in a place that is visible to you at all times.
* As Dorothy Morrison advises in her book Everyday Tarot Magic, you can photocopy your tarot card to use, so you don't damage the real card during the spell.
Extra Credit:
I chose #4 Game Prosperity
1) present state of my material reality
2 of Swords- concerns about a business deal or partnership
2) source of my deprivation
5 of Pentacles- finances improved but pleasure will be dimmed by hardships and suffering
3) source of my abundance
3 of Cups- payments, checks, money coming
4) what I need to do to find true prosperity
4 of Pentacles- getting bills paid, unexpected inheritance or possession
*To me this reading tells me that my finances are fine, but other things going on around me have me to emotionally drained to even care. I guess money isn't always the definition of prosperity ;)
Sources- Tarot Spells by Janina Renee
Everyday Tarot Magic by Dorothy Morrison
Card meanings- Tarot Made Easy by Nancy Garen

Bix

January 6th, 2005, 04:20 AM

---------------- 4
----------3------------5
----2-----------1------------6

1-Where I am now-Ten of Swords-shows that I am just going with the flow and not trying to control my life too much.
2-Empowers me-King of Cups-A mature man...probably meaning my boyfriend.
3-Keep me company-Strength-my own inner calm and thoughts keep me company
4-Shelters me-Four of Cups-finding friends and holding onto them makes me feel needed and happy.
5-What I seek-Ace of Cups-emotional calm and stability
6-What I need to create-Six of Cups-to create a harmonious relationship with those around me.

I'm still learning the cards so I used the guidebook that came with the cards to figure out the defintions of the cards.

Bix

January 6th, 2005, 04:46 AM

Tarot and roleplaying

Tarot cards can be very useful in helping a gamemaster roleplay. The can be used from anything from writing a whole campaign to what type of monster encounter your players will see. To use for a campaign, simply do a spread that helps divine the future and interpret the cards to write out an interesting campaign. This is usually done before meeting with players.

Another good idea is to keep various decks with you during gameplay to help resolve certain conflicts the players may encounter. If the plot seems to be dragging in the campaign, all you need to do is just draw a card to see what type of twist you could add to the plot to make it seem more interesting.

What deck you use could depend on what type of story you put your players through. There are pretty much every type of Tarot cards out there. Choose one to suit your need to help the storyline the characters.

Overall, you just use Tarot in roleplaying as an inspiration tool to help keep your game interesting to yourself and to the players.

http://www.burningvoid.com/rpg/2000/tarot.php
http://www.roleplayingtips.com/readissue.php?number=89

Autumn Eryn

January 6th, 2005, 05:55 PM

Code of Ethics:

1. I will not charge money for a reading. I am learning, and this is “for fun”. If ever I have learned enough to consider myself of a level capable of performing readings that are worthy of charging money, I will reconsider.
2. I will not deliberately hold back anything I read. It is not up to me to determine how this will affect the life of the querant. I will, however, lend whatever experience I do have (tarot and otherwise) to help the querant understand the reading, and just what a reading is -- and isn't.
3. I will conduct myself in a dignified manner so as not to further debase the craft.
4. I will not allow myself to be videotaped (unless specific arrangements are made well in advance), but I will consider permitting an audiotape of a reading.
5. I will treat the process, the cards, the querent and the reading with respect.
6. I will maintain confidentiality in readings and querants (meaning I won't go telling everyone that I did a reading for so-and-so).

I'm sure that there are more things to consider, but since I've never done a reading for anyone I don't know what I may need to be ethical about. This is somehting I will probably print out and keep with my cards to revisit as get better.

Lady Ravenna

January 6th, 2005, 08:22 PM

First I would like to mention that I at this point I don’t have any future plans to charge for readings. I might do readings for people on this board, friends, and maybe at parties.

1. To begin I will not be doing any readings for minors. In the future I will consider it on a case-by-case basis, and only with parents consent. I have found that, depending on their age, some kids are quite impressionable. I wouldn't want them to take the reading the wrong way and end up doing something bad.

2. I will always be honest as to what the cards show me, and I will never make things up. I will admit if I am not sure about something. I do not want to waste anyones time. If I am not sure what the cards are telling me I will let the person know.

3. I will always read what the cards tell me, and I will not advise people on legal, medical, or psychiatric matters. If the querant requests help with these matters, I will refer them to a professional.

4. Readings will be confidential. It is up to the person what information they chose to share with others. The only time the confidentiality may be broken is if there are any illegal matters brought up in the reading, or if information is needed by the police.

5. I will not interfere with anyone’s free will, or tell someone what to do. (example: quit your job, get rid of your S.O.. etc.) This is self-explanatory.

6. I will always be respectful and non-judgmental. No matter what age, sex, religion, sexual orientation.

7. I reserve the right to terminate or refuse a reading at any time. This also applies to the person who I am reading for. They can terminate the reading at any time if they are not satisfied.

8. I will not falsely represent myself. I will not claim to be a tarot master, and I can tell what will happen in the future. Before doing the reading I will make sure the person I am reading for is aware of my qualifications (how long I have been doing readings).

There is so much more I can add to this list, but these are the rules that stand out the most for me.

I will post part 2 later.

Willow Rosette

January 6th, 2005, 09:17 PM

I decided to do part 2 first since i am still working out how I feel about part 1 and it is quicker to think while researching than to do the first one first. so my part 1 and my extra credit will be comming in the next day or so.

I decided to do my part 2 on visulization and meditation with tarot, since when i read the assignment no one had done it yet.

Tarot can be used as a meditation device in several ways. For example if you were to just use the 22 cards in the major arcana, you can work a more spiritual issue.

For example say you were to pull The Moon. Because The Moon card represents psychic realities, contimplation, the collective unconscious, or even to keep yourself from self deception.

or

If you were to pull The Star you could focus more on looking towards hope and the future. Or even looking at weather or not your expectations on a subject are realistic.

With the minor arcana the art represents the person or those close to her.

So if you were to pull The Ace of cups she could then meditate on a more feminine principle, since this card suggests intuitiveness, joy, and fertility.

or if you are having a hard time making a decision you could choose the seven of cups to meditate upon.
As for visualization it can work a little different.

What a person has stored in side their mind is important. So the tarot can be used as a way to communicate with the unconscious. Creative visualization is a way to use positive visual effects to accheive what you need/want or to reinvent yourself. In creative visuaization you focus on a mental picture thinking of what you desire as if it is already that way. Just as in the saying "change your thoughts, change your destiny." Using the taort art as images, you can change your future by changing your energy patterns. Tarot images are able to bypass the awake mind and ego and go straight to the issues needing to be addressed. For example if you need will power focusing on the strength card would find the will power that is already inside you. The logical mind, with all its wanderings, is totally circumvented. Just like the saying says "A picture is worth a thousand words."

I think that about covers everything but i do have a question to go with my research. I found the fifth card refered to as The Hierophant and meaning spiritual authority. it said this card demands submission, the surrender of faith. which to me i would take submission or surrender to be a more negative thing. but in my deck the fifth card is the Heigh Priest and means mercy, kindness, goodness, forgiveness, and so on a much more positive card. i know we are not into card meanings yet but can you explain to me where there is such a difference? if you need the whole meanings i can post them but since this is already so long i tried to make it a little shorter.

Anubis RainHawk

January 8th, 2005, 12:40 AM

My Tarot Ethics

I Truth

I will always try my best to be honst about what I see in the cards no matter what. If someone asks me for a reading, they expect the truth so it would be wrong to lie about the given situation, especially if it's not a particularly pleasent one.

II Force

I will never force or request anyone to have a reading done, the main reason being that if someone is forced into doing a reading that person is much more likely to disregard the information given.

III Judgement

I will never judge the querent based either on physical appearence, education/career, spirituality/philosophy, or political veiws. I will also not judge based on the cards that come up in the reading because everyone makes mistakes and we are all on personal paths.

IV Privacy

I will never disclose any information from the reading. The querent seeks a reading because s/he has a personal question or concern. If I share readings, not only wil it upset the querent, it will also give another knowlege of someone's personal life and the querent would probably disregard the information given.

V Claims

I will never claim to be a docter or counciler (unless I get the degrees later on). Furthermore, I will tell the querent that I am neither a doctor or counciler and if I feel the need, recommend the querent visit one.

VI Future

I will never claim to know the future or even that the tarot can forcast future events. That's not how it work. Instead I will tell the querent that the tarot shows the possible outcome of a situation if the seeker continues on the path. I will tell the querent that the future may and probably will change because of the knowledge given.

VII Fear

I will always try to be as calm as possible during readings no matter what cards appear. I feel this is important because the way the reader speaks to the seeker infulenes how s/he will react. If the reader is visibly nervous or uncomfortable, it may alarm the quarent into fearing the tarot.

IX Time

I will give up to five readings per lunar cycle. The reason for this is I feel the situation needs time to change and develop.

X Outside Information

I will not use the tarot to let querents peak into the lives of others. This would be the same as spying, and incase the situation is really serious ( such as if a spouce truly believes s/he is being cheated on), I will not do it.

Anubis RainHawk

Anubis RainHawk

January 8th, 2005, 01:11 AM

Meditation is the act of deep concentration on a specific point of interest. In tarot meditation one focuses on the imagery of a particular card to gain a deeper understanding of it's meanings. Magicians of the Western Mystery Tradition attributed the 22 major arcana to the 22 paths of the Tree of Life and used visualization of these cards to enter those realms. It is likely that modern tarot meditation grew from this practice.

Oppinions vary on which cards should be used for tarot meditations. In "Everyday Tarot Magic" Dorthy Morrison suggests using the major arcana for beginners. M. J. Abodie of "The Everything Tarot Book suggests choosing a card that represents and emotional sate in which one would like insight. Some authors like Alfred Douglas believe it does not matter which card is chosen as long as each is given proper attention.

No matter which card is chosen, it is suggested that beginners establish a minimum of ten minutes of daily contemplation. Personal evaluations of this matter are important because it develops deep personal means. Furthermore, it helps one rely on one's personal response to the cards so the book meanings are no longer needed.

There are many ways to achieve tarot meditation. The first step is obviously to choose the card which will be the focus of the meditation. The second is to give the card a thorugh examination of the card. If possible, the beginner should take note of each symbol and personal reaction to it and record it in a special tarot journal. At this point, look into the card and try to answer the following questions:

What is it like for the characters?
What are the emotions?
What does it smell like?
What does it taste like?
What does it sound like?
Next Dorthy Morrison suggests visualising the card growing larger and larger until one could actually walk into the scene. The seeker is now able to talk with the characters within the cards and ask questions. When the seeker is finished conversing, s/he may ask to feel what it is like to be that character.

In addition to lengthy meditations, the tarot can be part of a daily meditaion practice. Start by choosing a card per day and placing it on your altar. Hold the card and concentrate on the symbolism. Try to figure out what it is the card is suggesting you to apply to your day to be more productive and successful.

sources: "The Tarot: The Origins, Meanings, and Uses of the Cards" by Alfred Douglass, "Everyday Tarot Magic: Meditations and Spells" by Dorthy Morrison, "The Illustraded Guide to Tarot" by Naomi Ozaniec, "The Everything Tarot Book: Discover your past, present and furture: It's in the cards" By M. J. Abadie", http://www.mysticwicks.com/showthread.php?t=80706

Anubis RainHawk

Wolfscout1

January 8th, 2005, 03:53 AM

2. Do reseach on one of the alternate uses of Tarot besides divination. Tell me everything you can about it. Oh, and don't forget to cite your sources.
I've done some research but i'm afraid after reading over this thread most of it's been posted on the meditation of Tarot cards.
so perhaps i will go into the actual doing of it.
I started out when my deck came in on meditating on each card as was posted.
i read the booklet and tried to match the cards with the description and then put a meditative spin upon each. Many became the same as what i had read them to be.
So, ...
I then took 1 card out of a shuffled deck to take with me during my morning meditations.
3 days in a row i drew the magicians card.
the first day i focused in on balance of all things.
second day was focusing in on each of the elements.
third day was a focus on the magical properties that i have been working with the most recently. -- was i being balanced and stragihtforward in my efforts etc.
the 4th day i drew the 7 of pentacles. This card was to be for cleverness , growth thoguh hard work and good news..etc. i had thought it did not fit for me now, but as the day wore on i saw it fit exactly in with the events of the day as they unfolded.

I think this is a valuable thing to do. It aids my meditative sessions by helping me to focus upon certain aspects that i may not otherwise have given much concern to and this will allow for the growth of pentacle7 was trying to teach me.

piglet

January 8th, 2005, 04:14 PM

Tarot as a Tool for Artists

It is my belief that art is a link between the mundane and the sacred. Some of my spell work involves art and when I create art, I try to make it a spiritual experience. I even use water from my altar for my paints :) . For this assignment, I will look at the use of tarot cards in creating and inspiring artwork.

Creating Your Own Deck
The most obvious way to combine art and tarot is to make your own deck. There are many sites out there that explain how to do this. You can use black cards and paint, draw, collage or photograph anything (3D objects) to get your images. Black and White decks can also be found which you can use to color in. Creating your own deck is probably the best way to learn the cards and it also allows you to learn about yourself as an artist. There are many online resources for creating a deck – I have listed a few in the sources section below.

Spell Work using Tarot Art
There have been some great assignments in this post already about using Tarot in spell work. These can also be done by creating a single card of your own using the methods above. You would then use this card in your spell as you normally would in a tarot spell but with the added benefit of being able to destroy it (burn it, bury it, etcetera.) without having to worry about the consequences :)
Creative exercise: brainstorm about incorporating tarot art into your next spell. What materials, colors, images, symbols, etc. would you use?

Visual Art
Tarot cards can be an inspiration for single pieces of artwork, not just for creating an entire deck of cards. Whatever medium you work in, meditating on and examining a tarot card can be a source of inspiration. You may look at one card of the Major Arcana cards to come up with an archetypal image, or combine cards (even do a reading) to get a more complex picture or idea. The figures within the tarot cards – their coloring, poses, setting, objects that surround them - can inspire you to create portraits, or to give added impact to a portrait of a real person.
Creative exercise: brainstorm how an unusual pose such as The Hanged Man could be incorporated into a visual art piece.

Creative Writing
Tarot can be used in creative writing in _many_ different ways. They can be an aid to creating a plotline, a scene, dialogue, fixing a problem in the plotline, deciding on a setting, developing a character, and much more. Doing a tarot reading at a time when you have writer’s block can be invaluable help. Tarot readings can also be used within a scene (depending on the subject matter of your story); do a reading and transcribe your actual reading into your story. Just as tarot cards can inspire visual arts, meditation and examination of cards may help with the writing of descriptive passages. The art of telling a story is integral to being able to give a good tarot reading, which is why I think that tarot and creative writing go hand in hand. Storytelling skills allow tarot readers to give the “whole picture” during a reading and focus on how every card interacts.

Artistic Tarot Spreads
-Artist’s Path Spread (link below)
This tarot reading can be done to examine your creative self. This spread can be used to understand a creative “block” that you have or to better understand “where you are going” creatively.
-Character Development Spread
I created this spread for use in creative writing, but it can also be used in acting to better understand the character you are trying to portray.
Layout:
456
213
789
Cards:
Character -
1. How they really are
2. How they see themselves
3. How others see them
Environment (physical, emotional, spiritual, etc.) –
4. Past
5. Present
6. Future
State of mind –
7. Past
8. Present
9. Future

Sources:
http://www.tarot.thecrystalgate.com/ - The artist’s path spread (articles section)
http://www.odivinorum.com/t-story.html -“Reading Tarot, Telling Stories” by Isthmus Nekoi
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/learn/bateleurs_tale.shtml - Tarot children’s story
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/learn/tarot_for_creative_writing.shtml -“Using Tarot and Oracle for Creative Writing” by Janet Boyer
http://www.tarotpassages.com/create.htm “Creating Your Own Tarot Deck Using Collage” - Michele Jackson
http://www.tarotforum.net/ Aeclectic Tarot Forum (there is a section on tarot deck creation)

AmethystMoon08

January 8th, 2005, 05:18 PM

Oooh, I like this assignment.. I'm gonna do part 1, then part 2 I'll edit into this, okies? And AmethystRose, I'm PM you when I edit it in :)

PART I

My Code of Ethics

1.) I will not gurantee that what is predicted in the cards will happen
2.) I won't read for people under 18
3.) I will read online, but only if the other person has the time and such
4.) I don't ask for birthdays and whatnot, I haven't found that neccesary
5.) I won't do love spells for people with the cards
6.) I will not do any spells for people with the cards
7.) I will explain and help the person, I will help them understand how each card relates to them and their situation
8.) I will only do 1 reading at a time
9.) I will only read once for a person at a time
10.) i'll take a break after each reading, and cleanse my cards

How's that sound? :halohead:

Bookgirl83

January 8th, 2005, 06:17 PM

Part 1: Code of Ethics

1. I will be honest with myself and others regarding my level of experience.

I am new to reading tarot, and I will be clear about this. I will not try to do something that I don't feel I am ready for. There is no shame in being a beginner. Also, I will make clear to any person who wants a reading from me that I am a beginner.

2. I will not perform any readings I am uncomfortable with.

Right now, this basically means reading for strangers. As I am new to tarot, and generally uncomfortable with strangers anyway, I will stick to reading for friends and relatives until I feel ready and able to branch out.

3. I will respect all those I read for, and I will expect the same respect in return

I believe it is important that I respect all those who want a reading, regardless of why they are there or who they might be. That being said, I also believe that I have a right to expect the same respect, and to refuse to continue a reading if that respect is lacking.

4. All readings are confidential.

This goes along with respect in my mind. It would be disrespectful of me to repeat anything that occurred during a reading. The only possible exception would be to protect the person I was reading for or someone else from harm (and by harm I mean anything for which an attorney or doctor or priest would be able to break privilege).

5. I am not qualified to give professional advice, so I will not.

While I am willing to offer a listening ear to anyone who needs it, I cannot offer more than friendly "this-is-what-I-would-do" advice. I will be prepared to offer recommendations to lawyers, accountants, counselors, etc. when needed, but I will not pretend that I am anything more than what I am.

6. I will be willing to update and change my ethics as needed.

Flexibility is important. People change; situations change. While this code may work for my current self and situation, it is important that I be willing to examine it often, and make changes when necessary.

Bookgirl83

January 8th, 2005, 06:53 PM

Part 2:

Techniques to Combine Tarot and Meditation

Many people use tarot to assist them in personal meditation, and there are as many techniques as there are people who use them. In researching the use of tarot in meditation, I came across little information about the history of the practice, but I did find many discussions of the best method to use. I found three practices particularly interesting, and I will outline them here.

1) Combine Tarot with a "thought for the day"

Nina Lee Braden whose article focused on her use of this meditation technique chose to use Osho Zen Tarot, but I believe it would be just as effective with any deck. To start, she chose a thought for the day. Hers came from the workbook A Course in Miracles, but again any inspiring thought would work, a line of poetry, a famous quotation, a Bible verse, etc. Keeping her thought in mind, Ms. Braden then chose three cards at random from her Tarot deck.
Starting with the first card, she examined the card, while repeating her thought. She looked into the card, seeing how it reflected the thought she had chosen, and what aspects of the card best expressed or conflicted with her thought. She repeated this with each of the three cards she had chosen.
To finish the meditation session, Ms. Braden assigned each card to an phrase from her thought. It worked like this; "I then applied each of the three cards to a phrase from the statement, "My holiness blesses the world."
My holiness = 2 of Fire (Possibilities)
Blesses = 3 of Rainbows (Guidance)
The world = 8 of Rainbows (Ordinariness)
In this schema, "my holiness" is the 2 of Fire, Possibilities. How apt! "Blesses" is the 3 of Rainbows, Guidance, and certainly guidance blesses. "The world" is the 8 of Rainbows, Ordinariness, and I could not have chosen a more perfect card for this phrase if I tried. (http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/2282/tarot/ozenacim.htm)"

(All information came from the quoted source.)

2) "Entering" the card
In this technique, you choose a card to meditate on, either at random or a specific card that you wish to examine more closely. Once the card has been chosen, you sit and concentrate on the card's image. It is important to absorb as much as you can, memorizing the cards image; take as much time as you need.
The next step is to close your eyes and "enter" the card. This involves placing yourself into the image you just memorized. Let the image come alive for you and interact with it. Move around, talk to characters, feel the wind or rain, use all five of your senses to become a part of the card you have chosen. This technique allows you to fully connect with your deck, and to gain a deeper understanding of each of the cards.

http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=14186
http://www.tarotforum.net/archive/index.php/t-17522.html

3. Tarot Card as Focus Point
The last technique that I found interesting was using a tarot card as a focus point throughout your day. In the morning, you choose a card from your deck. Throughout your day, keep that card in mind. See how the aspects of that card apply to your experiences during the day. Again, this technique allows you to gain deeper insight into the meanings of your cards and to become more familiar with your deck.

http://www.kenaz.com/notes/tarot.htm

I believe that any of the three techniques I have outlined will be beneficial in both facilitating personal meditation and in increasing one's connection to and understanding of their tarot deck. I have not yet decided which technique I will personally use. I intend to try them all to determine which I feel works best for me.

Anubis RainHawk

January 9th, 2005, 01:05 AM

The purpose of healing is to lead to whole need. Interestingly enought, ultimately the purpose of the tarot is to lead the seeker to wholeness. It has been known for ages that shapes and symbols have the ability to affect the person viewing them. One of the most powerful ways to use them is for healing. When the tarot and healing are combinded, create an all new way of viewing each.

The tarot cards contain healing images that lead the seeker to wholeness. Every symbol of the tarot have actions to that support the healing proccess. Balancing every aspect of ourselves: mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual is the purpose of healing with the tarot. Each suit of the tarot relates to a plane of the self:
pentacles-phsyical
cups-emotional
swords-mental/psychological
wands-spiritual

Illness originates on the mental/psychologicalical, emotional, and spiritual planes. The Higher Self speaks in symbolic terms which create symptoms. The phyical, outer body refects this deeper, inner self. Using the tarot can provid the key to unlock and desipher the message.

By using various tarot spreads and tarot meditations the seeker is able to understand and interpret the root of the pain and the dis-ease, the factors involved, what needs to be done to heal, what needs healing, and what one can do o make to make the various aspects of the self balanced (emotional, mental, phsyical, and spirit).

There are a number of healing spreads in "Tarot For The Healing Heart" by Christine Jette. One particular spread called "The Headless Horseman" examins one's fear, anger, resentment, and how to heal those aspects. Another spread called "The Heart of Disease" shows the purpose of the disease, what should be learned, as well as the possiblities that will be opened with this knowlege. Yet another spread shows how one's current self-esteem and how to develop a healing self-love and image.

In her book, Christene Jette also writes how the major arcana can help heal through mediation. Basically, she wrote that one can choose any of the major arcana cards to heal aspects of themselves of fears by their attributes. The meditations listed include a mediation on death to heal fears of death. Another uses Temperance as the archetypal healer to access the inner healer. Yet another calls upon The Hermit as the eternal seeker of truth to search within to stop the pain.

Healing tarot mediations may also be used with the minor arcana. One meditation possiblity is using the four pages and asking them what needs to be healed. Since the Pages represent messengers, they are representitives of their attributed element. Another deals with the healing qualities of the Aces, Cups (faith), Wands (intuition), Pentacles (patience), and swords (trust). During the mediation one is supposed to ask each Ace for their gift and adivce on how to develop it.

Obviously tarot healing does not replace medical care. It does, however, give the user a reason and purpose of the pain and disease. Tarot healing combines the best of both worlds and creates a deeper understanding of the two. More importantly, it shows the depths that both tarot and healing have.

Source: "Tarot For The Healing Heart: Using Inner Wisdom to Heal Body and Mind" by Christine Jette.

Anubis RainHawk

Bookgirl83

January 9th, 2005, 08:03 AM

Sacred Cove--
I decided to try this game. Here are my results.

CARD 1: Where I am now---Three of Rods, what I got from this varied a little from the LWB. According to LWB, this card is representative of knowledge, strength or trade. I got from it a sense of waiting. Which is really where I am right now, waiting for things to fall into place in my life.

CARD 2: Empowers me---Four of Swords, Definitely true. Rest and solitude are empowering to me. I'm introverted and need time alone to recharge.

CARD 3: Keeps me company---The Sun, Again, this is true. It is my relationships with my husband and close friends that keep me company. My husband especially; I couldn't do without him.

CARD 4: Shelters me---Six of Rods, I feel sheltered and protected by my accomplisments. Working toward a goal and achieving it is important, and success is not just a desired outcome, it is comforting. I like being able to look back and see what I've managed to do with hard work. Failure to achieve a goal is scary to me because it chips away at the shelter I've built for myself out of success.

CARD 5: What I seek here---Wheel of Fortune, Pretty apt. I guess I'm seeking some kind of insight into my life which is constantly changing. Also, I'm seeking an end to the waiting indicated in the first card, which this card reassures will end at some point. I just need to be patient.

CARD 6: What I feel the need to create---The Moon, For me, this illustrates my need to be cautious. This is a characteristic that is important to me, and I really do try to instill it in those around me, whether it's needed or not.

I really enjoyed this game. I found the insights it offered very helpful, both comforting and eye-opening.

LadyAutumnCat

January 9th, 2005, 12:42 PM

Tarot cards are not only used for divinatory purposes, they are also used in spell casting. This is possible, because every card is representative of something else, and therefore can be infused with specific energies that a spell caster might be working with. These energies can then be used or dismissed if that is what the spell is calling for. While the tarot cards alone will not create a successful spell, using the cards as an energy focus can assist the spell caster in obtaining their spell's desires. This can be done as the spell caster focuses directly on the energies represented by the cards and internalizes them and releases them. The card is an archetype of what the spell caster is attempting to achieve.

The importance of the representative qualities of tarot cards does not end here. It is believed that Jung utilized some aspects of the tarot in his definition of how man developes his/her unconscious. He broke this up into four categories sensation, thinking, feeling, and intuition. These can be represented by the minor arcana in the following manner (directly taken from source):

Jungian Function Tarot Suite Element
Intuition Wands Fire
Feeling Cups Water
Thinking Swords Air
Sensation Pentacles Earth

Apparently, the tarot is as elemental as our psychological development. It is not only a tool for divination, but also a tool to develop our spell casting energies, and a guide to better understanding our minds, desires, and inner workings.

http://www.beyondweird.com/tarotcards2.html
http://www.byzant.com/tarot/jung.asp

Extra Credit
I played the Sacred Cave Game, and created the setting by sitting on the floor, lighting incense and reading by candlelight.
I drew the following cards:
Card1: Where I am now
The ten of cups reversed - the card itself depicts a man with his content cats all over him. 10 cups are above him lined up neatly as such
1111
111
11
1
Which emphasize calmness and order

This reversed card is true of how things are now in an upheaval in my life, there is no order. I am not content physically or mentally. I am under a lot of stress because of my mental health or lack thereof.

Card 2 - Empowers me
The Emperor - the card depicts a man with a snow leopard. The man holds a staff with a cat sitting atop it. While the snow leopard sits attentively at his feet.

This card represents power, intelligence, and survival as well as confidence. There is strength and protection. It signals intelligence and success, as well as conquering obstacles. Intelligence over emotions.

This is what motivates me and keeps me going; the strength to succeed. To continue on with my education and overcome; it is what gives me hope.

Card 3 - Keeps me company
The Star Reversed - depicts a woman who is in the spotlight and happy about it. She revels in it actually. Her star cat rises above her hands it floats there inspiring her.

Reversed it represents pessimism and unfulfilled hopes, as well as imbalance and bad luck.

This has always been with me. I am a pessimist and seem to experience a lot of bad luck. I have many unfulfilled hopes and they don't allow me to attain the balance I need in my life, or to be who I really am.

Card 4 - shelters me
Eight of cups reversed - depicts a warrior walking away from 7 overturned cups. He looks back at the eight one because it remains standing. His black cat walks next to him not looking back.

Reversed it signals happiness and a continued effort to attain success. There is joy and happiness present.

This is exactly what keeps me going, my hope and that I have been learning to look forward to the prospects of the future.

Card 5 - What I seek here
Four of Swords reversed - depicts a woman playing with her cats. She is relaxed and sitting comfortably. Four swords are behind her.

Reversed it signals activity and precaution as well as economy. There is a guarded advancement and a want for what has been lost.

This is very true. I want my calm and healthy old self back, without the anxiety or the medication. I can only succeed if I am careful and use caution in my actions.

Card 6 - What I feel the need to create
The High Priestess - depicts a woman in resplendent garb holding a staff. Two cat statues stand behind her on either side with glowing eyes.

Represents learning, education, serenity, teachers - hidden emotions

All of this is what I seek. I want to continue my education while overcoming the current of emotionality that is affecting me.

-Sky-

January 9th, 2005, 12:42 PM

First of all,I'd like to say that this is indeed one of the most important lessons that we can learn as tarot-readers because by writing down our ethics we define our craft and what we exactly do.I wish that all tarot readers could follow certain ethics and principles but some don't and this is why tarot reading has a bad reputation in many countries.
I admit that till now I hadn't set exact ethics for me,I kept in mind certain things but now I've meditated on the subject and thought a lot so here's my list of ethics which might choose as i grow spiritually:
CODE OF ETHICS
1.Respect
This is the most important of all for me.When doing a reading for myself or for another person I always make sure I respect the cards,the energies I invoke by using the cards,myself and the person I am reading with.And by respecting you get better results and you work with the energies around you harmoniously.

2.I will perform no more than 2 readings within one lunar cycle/month for the same person for the same subject.
Several times I've been asked by my friends to read for them again and again which I consider wrong.Once I've done a reading for them concerning for example their boyfriend I will NOT read again about this in the same Lunar month.And this is because I believe that the cards has "spoken" about this subject and we shouldn't bother them again.Besides many things can happen in the same month and the receiver of the reading should continue on his own after receiving the guidance from the cards.

2.I will not lie about what the cards have revealed to me.I will always be honest about the interpretation but I will also handle the reading with tact.
I always want to be honest and sincere about the outcome of a reading with a client because the person who comes to me for a reading trusts me and I don't want to betray this trust.So it's my principle to be truthful and speak out about what I see BUT i will also pronounce the results of the reading with tact.I want to be truthful but not scary.

3.I will not do a reading under the influence of anything...
whether it is alcohoc(i don't drink) or intense emotions(like anger,sorrow etc)

4. I will not try to harm anyone with my tarot cards.
You know that the cards of a deck can be used in spells for various purposes.I will not use my cards to harm a person or interfere with his mind and decisions which means that i will turn down any clients that will ask me this.

5.Everything will be kept confidential.
This is pretty self-explanatory.I will not reveal what a client asked me or what I answered to him to another client.

6.When doing a reading I prefer key phrases or questions given.
Key words and questions make a reading easier for me and allows me to explain more easily the interpretations to a client.So I avoid "general" readings but i will do those too if asked.

7. I have the right to refuse to do a reading for any reason but this reason will NEVER be a racist one.This means that i will treat my customers with respect(see principle 1) regardless of age,race,social status,gender,realigion and sexual preference.

8.I will not manipulate anyone in order to obtain money or power.
As i said in the beginning,many frauds manipulate people by telling them they know everything and that they can help them.I will not do this because I consider it an offense to my Craft.

9.I will not receive money unless I choose the art of tarot for my permanent job or in case i am in need of money.But even under these circumstances the money given to me for a reading will not be much.
Right now,I read tarot for fun and because I love what I do.I don't need the money so i can't see a point in charging people for a reading.Besides i am not a tarot-expert so i don't believe it is worth giving me the money.

10.I will not let people or myself become dependent of the tarot.
I've met many people that are so dependent on the tarot cards that run everyday to "fortune tellers" in order to learn their destiny and i think this is a weakness.So i will not let myself or a person i love do this. I will do readings for everyone but i will explain them that tarot are only a tool which offers you some answers and suggestion that MAY happen in the future if you decide it.

11.I will not claim to know the future.
As I mentioned in #10,tarot are a tool of divination and they don't reveal the 100% true events.They offer you a path that you may follow or not and help you understand the present situation.Our future changes every time we make a choice.This means that we are responsible for our future.

12.I will respect the wish of every client.
Although no client of mine has decided to leave in the middle of a session,if one of my future customers is disatisfied and wants to stop the reading I will not protest or refuse to do as he asks.

And I think this is it.I can't think of anything else right now..
Part 2 is coming!

-Sky-

January 9th, 2005, 01:38 PM

Tarot and Meditation/Spiritual Development

Note:I will present some information about how to use your deck to meditate and grow spiritually but the information are mostly based on my deck so some cards have different names.If you want to know the name of the cards they correspond to(eg The Green Man is the Fool) take a look at my first assignement.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each of the 78 tarot carsd can be used as a pictorial key or trigger for meditation,and some decks like the Sacred Circle one has been designed with this in mind.Each card contains symbols that work on a number of levels that will reveal their complexity and depth with continued study and practice.
Take the card you have decided to work with and study the picture.Examine the border and reflect on what it might mean.Examine the elements that make up the image.Read about the symbolism of the card.When you feel you have the picture and the basic symbolism fixed in your mind,put the card down in front of you,close your eyes and relax.You are going to enter into the card and interact with it.
For example,suppose you have chosen the Queen of Swords.Imagine the border of the card like an open doorway before you.Within the pillars of the door,gentle winds move clouds around in a blue sky,the power of the element of air in action,though each pillar is mysteriously contained.The cornices are solid and yellow-the magical vibrationary color of the element of air-and carved with an endless knot.You step over the threshold and enter the card.
It's a warm spring day.You feel the breeze and catch on its gentle breath the scents of gorse,bluebell and primrose flowers and the sound of bees buzzing through them,It is a day full of promise.From the frsh,white birch tree steps a Lady clad in sunshine yellow.She is the young Spring Goddess.In her right hand,she holds aloft a sword and a hare gambols at her feet.In the wake of her footsteps,flowers emerge from the soft earth and unfold their petals.You may speak to her and she may answer your questions.
You may interact with the scene any way you wish.Perhaps the Lady will give you a cleansing draft of gorse to purify you and make you ready for what is to come.She may tell you about the sword and what it means,she may present it to you.You may listen to what the bees have to say or you may play with the hare.You may learn the secrets of the birch or the lessons of the primrose.Spend as long as you like in this magical place.l
When you are ready to leave,thank the Lady and any other creature or spirit you have met and feel again the open border nehind you.Turn around and step through it.Feel yourself back in your room with the card in front of you and bring yourself back to waking conciousness.
Journey of the Fool.
The Major Arcana is sometimes described as "The Journey of the Fool",charting the progress from the dawning of conciousness to initiation.Each major arcana card is meditated in turn,one each full month for twenty-two months,using the above technique.
In the Sacred Circle deck Anna Franklin has slightly changed the names and order of some of the Major Arcana cards.She has done this to clarify the Journey of the Fool.
She begins with the Green Man as primal energy,and go on to pair the High Priest and High Priestess-rather than the magician and High Priestess-as encounters with the male and female sides of the Self.The divinatory meanings of the High Priest remains similar to those of the traditional magician.The canditate then encounters the Goddess and the God within nature,as the Lady and the Lord.
The card normally called the Hierophant or Poper(in some more modern decks,the High Priest) is now the Druid,whose role is similar to that of a hierophant.It took many years of training to become a druid and she has used the image to portray the image of a person who has learned to balance the forces of the preceding cards-raw energy,the male and female sides of himself,and the knowledge of the Goddess and the God within nature.
Then follow the lessons of life in the cards of the Lovers ,the Chariot,the Warrior(Strength) and the turning towards the lessons of spirit in the Shaman(the Hermit).
Next comes the awareness of the turning of the Wheel and the awareness that everything moves within the Wheel is connect by the Web(Justice) and that actions have consequences.With this profound realisation comes the descent into intitiation:first one must be willing to sacrifice the ego and little Self(Sacrifice/The Hanged Man),the old self then dies(Death) and passes to the Underworld(The Devil_ where the spirit is tested and refined.
The final dissolution of the old Self is completed with the Tower,where the man-made structure of deceptive self-image and barriers is finally destriyed,allowing the canditate to go forward to Initiation(Temperance).
Then follows the emergence from initiation in the conventional order of the Star,the Moon,the Sun,Rebirth(Judgement) and the World Tree(the World).
Meditation of the Elements with the tarot cards
The Wheel of the Elements
Remove from the deck the four cards representing Air,Fire,Water and Earth(these cards are the Kings of each suit) and the card representing the World Tree(the World).Lay them out on the floor in front of you with the air card in the east,the fire card in the south,the water card in the west,the earth card in the north and the world tree in the center of the circle.
Choose the element you think you need to work on and seat yourself behind that card.Study the image,then close your eyes and visualize yourself entering the card.
For example,say you need to work on your emotions because you find it difficult to express feelings.Seat yourself behind the water card.See in your mind's eye the borders of the card,free flowing blue water,mysteriously contained within pillars,forming an open doorway.Step through the doorway and encounter the plane of the element of water.
Before you,seated on a silver throne,is a kindly man dressed in blue.He is the Lord of the Powers of Water and he welcomes you to his domain.In his right hand he holds a silver cup,brimmin with new wine,which he invites you to drink.As you do, the cool,smooth liquid invigorates you,easing away the tensions in your body,and you feel lighter,you move with a new fluid grace.
The King leads you across the hill behind his throne toward the sea shore.The water laps the beach with white-flecked waves,again and again.You hear and feel its rhythm moving within you, and you walk forward and enter the sea.It is warm and you float freely,safe and supported.
Allow yourself to experience the element of water.Feel the movement and pull of the tides,the flow of the waves...giving and taking...taking and giving...
Experience the power of the sea,from which all life emerged.It is as though you float within the secure waters of your mother's womb and feel the beat of her heart.
Experience the deep pool of your subconcious...love and hate...daring and cowardice...happiness and sorrow...
When you are ready,leave the sea.You find the King of Water waiting for you.He leads you back to the gateaway of pillars.Thank him for his help and turn back through the borders of the card.Open your eyes.

The exercise can be performed by a group of up to 4 people together,each choosing one of the elements and seating themselves behind the chosen card and meditating on his chosen element.The same format can be used to meditate on the eight sabbats placed on the wheel,with the World Tree card,the Initiation card,or the Ace of Cups as the Grail card placed in the center.
The Eight Festivals and Meditation
Samhain: Underworld,The Shaman,The Tower,Initiation
Yule: Rebirth,Ace of Discs,King of Discs
Imbolc: Moon,High Priestess
Ostara: The Lady,the Lord,Queen of Swords,King of Swords
Beltane: The Lovers,the Green Man
Litha: The High-Priest,Sun,Queen of Wands,King of Wands
Lughnasadh: Warrior(Strength)
Mabon: Daeth,Sacrifice,Ace of Cups,Queen of Cups
Source: The Sacred Circle Tarot:A Celtic Pagan Journey by Anna Franklin
Extra credit is coming!
-EDIT-
Actually would it be ok if i posted tomorrow the extra credit?I have lots of homework now...
~Anna

Amethyst Rose

January 9th, 2005, 04:51 PM

Actually would it be ok if i posted tomorrow the extra credit?I have lots of homework now...
~Anna

You've done a great job, so far, so post the extra credit when you have the time. :)

Brielle LaLune

January 9th, 2005, 07:38 PM

Assignment 2 Part 1Ethics:

1. All readings are guaranteed confidential
2. Readings are not meant to tell the future, but rather to help gain insight and reveal possible outcomes of your query, based on the present situation.
3. Tarot readings will be objective, and completely honest.
4. No third-party readings.
5. The querent will be treated with respect, regardless of age, race, sex, or any other trait.
6. If under the age of 18, client must obtain parental consent.
7. I cannot contribute legal or medical advice.

Part 2: Past Life Readings

From my research, I have gathered that there are a couple of types of past life readings for which Tarot can be used. The first is for more general questions, such as, “Why am I here?” This type of reading can help reveal hidden talents, attitudes, and karma, brought into the individual’s lifetime. It can also help gain insight into what should be accomplished in this life.

For this more general type of reading, a modified Celtic cross spread can be used. First a significator from the Major Arcana is chosen. This is symbolic of the soul’s true self, or essence. Position 1 represents the querent’s current state of being, position 2 represents talents and karma that have been carried into this life, while position 3 is the individual's purpose for incarnation, his destiny. The fourth position represents the lessons of the most influential lifetime and their impact upon the current lifetime. The fifth position represents the individual's future in this lifetime, and the sixth represents the next lifetime, if nothing changes the patterns laid down in the current life so far.

I have also found that there are more specific readings for an in-depth past life reading. This can answer such questions as, "Did I know this person in a past life" or "I went to such-and-such a place and it seemed very familiar - have I been there before in a past life?"
This type of reading consists of two parts, the first being a focusing reading. This is done by first removing the significator from the deck. Next 9 cards are drawn from the deck and the significator is mixed in with them. The cards are laid out into three rows of three. The top row represents the current lifetime: The right-hand card represents the beginning of the relationship or the first encounter with the question in this lifetime, the middle card the middle years or more mature part of the relationship, the left-hand card the end or later years of this lifetime or the relationship in this lifetime. The middle row represents several recent past lifetimes, and the bottom row represents several older lifetimes. The further down and to the right you move, the more distant the lives.
When the significator appears , the next card is placed on top of it. If the fool appears in the top row, this suggests that the relationship or origin of the question originated in this lifetimeand not in a past life. If the significator appears in one of the bottom two rows, then the question originated in a past life. Cards above and to the left of the fool represent lifetimes associated with the question, cards to the right and below the Fool can be discarded, as they do not pertain to the question.

After the focusing, a more in depth spread might look like this:

9 10
8 11
7 12
13
1 6
2 5
3 4

Well, that didn't really turn out like it was supposed to....anyway, the 13 is in the middle, 7 thru 12 make a semi circle over 13, and 1 thru 6 make a semicircle under 13.

Cards 7-11 represent a recent lifetime, and cards 1-5 a more distant lifetime, both of which represent past lives that have a strong influence on this lifetime and the query. Cards 6, 12, and 13 are related to the current lifetime. 1 and 7 represent who they were in a past life, 2 and 8 show what they did with that lifetime, 3 and 9 were the life purpose of the past lives, 4 and 10 show how and whether that purpose was resolved or attained, 5 and 11 show what was carried forward from that lifetime, and cards 6 and 12 show how these things manifest in their life right now. Card 13 is the current life's purpose, related to these past events. The cards are read in sequential order, staring with 1 and ending with 13.
A modification of this reading that focuses less on life purpose is to use the first four cards of each lifetime as follows: 1 - what circumstances they were born into, 2 - their youth, 3 - their middle years, 4 - the end of their life, then 5 - what karma is brought forward from that life and 6 - how it affects their current life. Card 13 can still be a karmic lesson or task they are working through as a result of all this.

Sources: http://www.tarotmoon.com/articles/Past_Life_II/past_life_ii.html
http://www.tryskelion.com/readtypes.htm
http://www.goddessflight.com/pastlifesamp.html

Dashifen

January 9th, 2005, 09:44 PM

Evening Everyone!

I spent a while thinking about the whole code of ethics thing. I’ve had to put them together before for a number of different college courses but those were often relating to computers and the ethical use thereof. So, working from that experience, I figured this wouldn’t be so bad. But, I decided to flip-flop things a little bit. In both my assignments, and the code that Amethyst Rose posted in the “lecture,” all of the individual lines of the code described what a person won’t do. I don’t know if anyone else did this or not, since again I’ve not read others’ assignments, but my code describes what my actions will perform rather than those I will not.

I will be honest about what I see in the cards, following my intuition and my knowledge of the cards, in an effort to provide the best interpretation of the cards that I can.

I will listen to the ideas and interpretations of those for which I read considering that they know their situation much better than I.

I will offer advice when asked for it and will remind those to whom I provide advice that I am not a trained psychologist, lawyer, financial advisor, interior decorator or hit man, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night (sorry, couldn’t resist).

When reading on the internet, I will attempt to give as much information about the meaning of the cards without making guesses or assumptions based on too little information.

For part two of the assignment I was originally going to look into different meditation techniques for the tarot. Meditation is something that I’d like to work on in the future, an aspect of my life that I feel I could benefit from, so I thought this assignment could connect to or jumpstart that desire. So, heading off to my favorite research assistant (google.com) I searched for “tarot meditation information.” After sifting down through to page three I saw this link: www.altguide.com/therapydata/tarottherapy.html. Yes, that’s right, tarot therapy. Intrigued, I clicked the link. So here is a brief introduction to tarot therapy. I know it wasn’t listed in the lesson, but I figured I’d write it up as my assignment anyway (I never liked doing using the assignment much in college either preferring to walk the road less traveled while playing my own drum, too).

Tarot Therapy was described Steve Hounsome on the site linked above. A brief search on the links from that site led me to the Spirit Seeker web site where they offer courses in this therapy and certification, so it seems like he’s something of an authority on the subject.

He describes it as complementary therapy which is a one where the practitioner considers the client in a holistic way – mind, body, and spirit – during the therapeutic session. Unfortunately, I tried to google up a more complete definition of a complementary therapy, but most of the time I simply found examples which included, most commonly, reflexology, aromatherapy, and art therapy. But, from Mr. Hounsome’s article online, these therapies are becoming more and more accepted in western medical practices.

Tarot therapy, specifically, seems either extremely new or extremely rare. I went to the Internet Health Library (www.internethealthlibrary.com) , where they had a list of complementary therapies, and it wasn’t on the list while everything up to and including Vegetable Juice Therapy. In fact, it seems like Mr. Hounsome may be the creator – five of the first six links for “tarot therapy” on google mentioned him or linked to his article.

He describes his view of a complementary therapy as one in which the energy of a person is brought back into sync with the vibration of the world. In his mind, the health of a person is linked to the energy within them and how it relates to the energy surrounding them. Since I’ve seen a few different spreads that start out with cards one and two of the spread representing these two energies specifically, I can see where he made the connection.

His website, www.spiritseeker.co.uk, includes a definition of the therapy: “Tarot Therapy uses the cards to explore the underlying energy that makes us who we are and shapes what we experience.” He further goes on to describe that he uses the tarot to help with guided meditation (similar to what Amethyst Rose described in the lesson). A usual session would include a discussion with the cards (not sure what he means by that), guided meditation, inner child and past life examinations, etc.

From this, it sounds as if he’s mostly using the tarot as a self-help tool but it still seemed rather vague to me. So, a quick google-ing brought up a Q&A from Bella Online (www.bellaonline.com/articles/art21017.asp) by June Kaminski. She answers the question “How can the Tarot be used with healing, either as a practitioner or for self-healing?”

Her answers said that people called tarot therapist “use the tarot as a tool to diagnose, plan a treatment course, and help people to move through emotional-mental-/physical-spiritual blocks to true health and wellness.” To do this, the therapist uses the cards to explore the underlying energy of a person. Further, the tarot cards can be used to identify the condition of the energy levels within a person and help to shift these energies into a more harmonious balance within the person. She mentions the Spirit Seeker courses and site in her answer, too, but in addition to that site she also mentions the book Tarot for the Healing Heart (amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0738700436/ref=ase_healingintent-20/103-1213338-6459003?v=glance&s=books))by Christine Jette.

Ms. Kaminski also mentioned a spread, called the Healing Star, which could be used to help in tarot therapy sessions. The link she provided wasn’t available, but I used the wayback machine to look for it in the internet archive. I found it in the internet archives here (http://web.archive.org/web/20021002215448/http://www.illuminationtarot.com/insights/spr_hea.html) and I’ll leave it for you to explore as well. Not too much explanation of the spread or what each individual card means, but still interesting.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a really good sense of exactly what tarot therapy is or how it could be used. So, I went back to Spirit Seeking to look at their introductory course and it sounded like it was mostly a basic tarot course in which you’d learn the cards and how to use them, but if you wanted to learn more about tarot therapy you’d have to take their certification course.

So, unfortunately I don’t think I (we) got a really clear idea of exactly what tarot therapy is, but it seems like an interesting use of the tarot which connects a few of the ideas that Amethyst Rose listed in her lesson including meditation and past life analysis, but the purpose of the reading is not simply information, but also to aid in a healing, therapeutic experience meant to help the client with more than decision making.

Willow Rosette

January 9th, 2005, 10:26 PM

This assignment was a whole lot harder for me than part two. Only because i had to examine my self and think about what I think is good and ok and what I think is not good and not ok. For me that is a whole lot harder to do than simply researching a subject. so here is what i have so far for my ethics. i think as i learn more about using the cards my ethics will grow and change but for the moment this is how they are.

1) Uphold the integrity of myself and the cards.
I want to make sure that the worl doesnt see me as fake or the cards a joke. So I will always up hold the integrity of myself and the cards.

2) Educate
This one goes along with the first one. I want people to know that the cards dont tell an absolute future. They only tell the possibility of the future if the path stays the same.

3) Interpretation
To be true and honest and not change the meaning of the cards for what the person want to hear.

4) Keep my own opinion to my self
Keep my opinion and feelings to my self. And not tell a person what path I think they take. Let them work out their own course of action.

5) Turn negative readings into a positive answer
I want people to be able to look at their readings in a positive light. For example I dont want them to think the death cards as necessarily a physical death but to look at it more as change or rebirth.

6) Keep everything a person tells me confidential.
I think this is pretty self explanitory.

7) Everyone treated equal
I think this one is also self explanitory,

8) Reading for minors
I dont think I see reading for minors as a bad thing. But i would try to counsil them to talk to someone qualified to help with a minors issues.

9) Accepting money for readings
I dont think at this point I would consider taking money for a reading. Taking money would emply that I have more skill than i currently do. Whether or not I do down the road is unknown.

**EDITED MONDAY MORNING**
10) Thank the cards
Last night (sunday) after going to bed i realized I had not thanked my cards for the readings I had done that day. I think this is very important considering the gift the cards bestow upon us with their knowledge and wisdome.

Willow Rosette

January 10th, 2005, 12:19 AM

Ok here is my extra credit homework some of the readings made sence and other parts didnt. I will explain the parts that did and and ask for help in clarification in the parts that didnt.

New Moon Spread

1 Began it
2 Shaped It
3 At the center of it
4 Needed by it
5 where is is going

For #1 I drew the eight of pentacles (upright)
The meaning is: Discontinuance of effort, Disappointment, Abandonment of previous plans, Shyness, Modesty, Abandoned sucess.

For #2 I drew Queen of swards (upright)
The meaning is: Sharp, quick-witted, keen person, intense perceptions,A subtle person, may signify a widow or woman of sadness. mourning privation, Absence Loneliness, seperation, one who has savored great hapiness but who presently knows the anxiety of misfortune and reversal.

For #3 I drew King of Pentacles (upright)
The meaning is: An experienced and successful leader, A person of character and intelligence, business acumen, mathematical ability, loyal friend, reliable marriage partner, successful businessperson, wise investments, ability to acquire money and valuable possessions.

For #4 I drew Page of wands (upright)
The meaning is: A faithful and loyal person, An envoy, Emissary, trusted friend, a stranger with good intentions. a consistant person. a bearer of important news.

For #5 I drew Ten of Swards (upright)
The meaning is: Ruin, pain, afflication, sadness, mental anguish, desolation, tears, misfortune, trouble, disapointment.

I did not understand the meaning of this whole reading. On the next two i will underline the parts that reflect my life. but this one made no sence at all to me.

Witches Hat

5
4 3
\2 1/

# 1 & 2 what is needed to take flight to send your energy out.
# 3 & 4 where your power lies and what needed to do to feel strong.
# 5 what is needed to send out to the universe

For 1 & 2 I underlined the things i read it to mean I needed to take flight and grow.
For 3 & 4 I underlined the things I felt what would inhance my power and make me feel strong.
For number 5 I didnt underline anything because I didnt see anything that felt right.

#1 I drew The Hermit (upright)

The meaning is: Counsel, solicitude, inner strength, self illumination, patience, cicumspection, self denial, withdrawl, under certain circumstances this card also represents recession, and regression. Desertion. Annulment, a loner or person incapable of inner action with another person. Fear of discovery, failure to face facts, and possesor of secrets.

#2 I drew The 4 of Swords (reversed)
The meaning is: Activity, circumspection, precaution, enonomy, guarded advancement, desire to recover what is lost.

#3 Seven Of Wands (reversed)
The meaning is: consternation, anxiety, embarrassment, indecision, hesitancy causing losses, perplexity, doubt.

#4 Three of Swards (reversed)
The meaning is: distraction, confusion, disorder, error, mistake, incompatibility, mental anxieties, loss, alienation.

#5 Justice (reversed)
The meaning is: Bias, false accusations, bigotry, severity in judgement, intolerence, unfairness, abuse.

The Broom

9
8
7
456
\123\

1, 2, & 3 are dust, stuff working to gt rid of.
4, 5, & 6 are broom bristles, ideas needed to make a clean sweep
7, 8, & 9 are getting a grip on the situation

For 1 &2 I underlined the dust or things I felt I had in my life that needs to be swept out.
For 3 I didnt see anything named that needed to be swept out.
For 4, 5, &6 I underlined what parts of my life I needed to enhance to make the clean sweep.
For 7, 8 & 9 I underlined what things what things I needed to get a grip on to make the clean sweep.

#1 is The Four of Pentacles (upright)
The meaning is: Love of material wealth, hoarder, user, skinflint, miser, ungenerous person, inability to share.

#2 is The High Priestess (upright)
The meaning is: Wisdom, sound judgement, knowledge, learning, serenity, objectivity, penetration, education, forsight, intuition, perception, hidden emotion, purity, virtue, apparent emotionlessness, lack of patience, platonic relationships, teacher.

#3 is The King of Cups (upright)
The meaning is: responsibility and creativity, learned person, professional, business person, lawyer, religious person, scientist, a considerate person, kindly, reliable and liberal in manner, artist, interested in the arts and the sciences, generosity.
(not sure on this one what needed to be swept out)

#4 is The Nine of Wands (upright)
The meaning is: expectation of difficulities and changes, awaiting tribulation, anticipation, hidden enemies, discipline, order, a pause in a current struggle.

#5 is the Rejuvenation (upright)
The meaning is: Atonment, judgement, the need to repent and forgive, the moment to account for the manner in which we have used our opportunities, rejuvenation, rebirth, improvement, development, promotion, efforts that end in just rewards, the desire for immortality, legal judgement, one should carefully consider the effects of present actions on other persons.

#6 is Five of Cups (upright)
The meaning is: partial loss, regret, friendship with out real meaning, marriage with out real love, imperfection, flaw, delayed inheritance, incomplete union or partnership.

#7 is the Wheel of Fortune (upright)
The meaning is: Destiny, fortune, outcome, felicity, godsend, special gain or unusual loss, result, approaching the end of a problem, inevitability, unexpected events may occur, the course of things from the beginning to the end, advancement for better or worse, progress, good or bad luck depending on the near by cards.

#8 is The Queen of Cups (upright)
The meaning is: A warm hearted and fair person, poetic, beloved, admired person, good friend and mother, devoted wife, practicalality, honesty, loving intellegence, gift of vision.

#9 is Knight of Penticales (upright)
The meaning is: accomplishment, discernment, discretion, forsight, safety, prudence, material well being, love of nature.

There were lots of things that made sence here expecially in the Broom lay out but in all three there were aspects that did not make sence. I would love to hear someone elses take on the readings.

goldcat79

January 10th, 2005, 12:30 AM

goldcat79

January 10th, 2005, 12:37 AM

Assignment 2 part 1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This assignment was a whole lot harder for me than part two. Only because i had to examine my self and think about what I think is good and ok and what I think is not good and not ok. For me that is a whole lot harder to do than simply researching a subject. so here is what i have so far for my ethics. i think as i learn more about using the cards my ethics will grow and change but for the moment this is how they are.

1) Uphold the integrity of myself and the cards.
I want to make sure that the worl doesnt see me as fake or the cards a joke. So I will always up hold the integrity of myself and the cards.

2) Educate
This one goes along with the first one. I want people to know that the cards dont tell an absolute future. They only tell the possibility of the future if the path stays the same.

3) Interpretation
To be true and honest and not change the meaning of the cards for what the person want to hear.

4) Keep my own opinion to my self
Keep my opinion and feelings to my self. And not tell a person what path I think they take. Let them work out their own course of action.

5) Turn negative readings into a positive answer
I want people to be able to look at their readings in a positive light. For example I dont want them to think the death cards as necessarily a physical death but to look at it more as change or rebirth.

6) Keep everything a person tells me confidential.
I think this is pretty self explanitory.

7) Everyone treated equal
I think this one is also self explanitory,

8) Reading for minors
I dont think I see reading for minors as a bad thing. But i would try to counsil them to talk to someone qualified to help with a minors issues.

9) Accepting money for readings
I dont think at this point I would consider taking money for a reading. Taking money would emply that I have more skill than i currently do. Whether or not I do down the road is unknown.
__________________
i was help by a friend with this

Amethyst Rose

January 10th, 2005, 12:48 AM

goldcat79.... can you kindly explain to me why your ethics are WORD FOR WORD the exact same thing that Visha'sMommy wrote for her ethics?

BTW, your answer better be really good.

Lolith

January 10th, 2005, 04:41 AM

My personal code of ethics:

I will not read for minors (under 18) without parental consent. I do not want to be caught up in any legal battles or be accused of influencing other people's children.

I will not allow my cards to be treated with disrespect by anybody, myself included. I do not consider tarot cards to be a toy, therefore I will not allow them to be treated as such.

I will not lie about my own abilites or knowledge of the cards. I will not claim to be something I am not. I know I am a beginner, and will not lie to anybody about that.

I will respect the seeker and their question/situation. I will try to remain as objective as I can in regards to their question. People live different lives, and it is not my job to judge them.

I will not claim to be able to predict the future. I will make it clear that the cards do not tell the future, but only show what can happen if the seeker follows the path they are currently on. The cards are not the be all and end all, things can change.....it's all up to the seeker.

I will not read for anybody under the influence of drugs or alcohol, nor will I read while intoxicated. I don't want any negative energies put into my cards. Having a drink or two is one thing, but if someone is incoherant, I don't want them touching my cards. I feel that would be disrespectful.

I will not abuse my body to do a reading. If I'm sick or tired, I will not try to read my cards. My mind will not be able to focus, and I need my energies put towards healing myself.

I will have the right to refuse to do a reading. I will use my intuition when deciding to do a reading. If I don't feel right about it, I simply won't do it.

I will read for the same person no more than once a week. I have no problem doing simple spreads for weekly readings. I do it for myself, why not do it for others.

I will not charge for readings. I am not a professional. I am only a beginner. I don't feel right taking money for readings, but if someone feels the urge to tip me for my time, I will not turn that down.

I will not lie about what I see in the cards. I will read the cards as I feel they should be read. I will read what is there, no more no less.

I will stop the list here, but I know I'll come up with more as I continue my leaning process.

Lolith

January 10th, 2005, 05:15 AM

The alternate use of tarot I chose is meditation. I do not have much information on this, and I have not read other's responses. I had a tough time finding good information about this subject, but I'll go with what I have.

Meditation using the tarot can be done a few different ways. They can be used for open or guided meditations. For these kind of meditations, cards can either be chosen randomly or in order (usually going on a journey using the major arcana). Once a card is picked, meditate on what the cards means to you. Pick a quiet spot, and just relax. Look at the card. Do any feelings thought come to mind right away? Continue to look at the card. See all the details. Focus on things you might not normally see in them. If there are people in the cards, then to put yourself in their shoes. Picture yourself stepping into the card. Become a part of it. Imagine what you would be seeing, feeling, smelling if you were there. What feelings does that provoke? Is it telling a story? Try to do this without looking up the card in the lwb. When you have spent some time meditating on the card, go about your day keeping the card in mind. Try to relate the card to the experiences you have throughout that day.

Meditating on the cards is a great way to get to know your deck or gain some insight on your life. It will help you to build your own meanings for the cards, and will help you to learn how they can relate to everyday life. It's good to keep a journal while you are using tarot as a meditation tool. If you have a written record, it will be easy to see the progress you made with the cards as well as any other information you come about.

I think this is really all I can write about the subject. I know it's not much, but it's all I could really find with my resources and the week I had. Before I forget, here are some of my resources:
http://www.geocities.com/beachcomber19532002/dianne_meditation.html
http://www.cs.utk.edu/~mclennan/OM/BA/PT/MM.html#medit
Also, I used random bits and pieces of information I've seen on message boards over a great period of time. I have not had a chance to do the bonus exercises yet. Is the deadline on them the same as the assignment?

Rainlily

January 10th, 2005, 11:09 AM

Lesson 2 part 1 Ethics

1. I will not charge money for my readings
This is somthing that I perosnally do not feel comfortable with doing, making money is not the reason why I would want to do a reading and I do not want people to think that that is so..

2. I will be honest about what the cards tell me
If someones comes to me to have a reading done there are looking for some kind of guidance, if I'm not honest then how will I be able to do that?

3.I will limit readings for someone if I feel they are becoming dependant.
I do not feel that this is would be healthy for anyone what I can't decide on is what the limitation should be. I do not simply want to just use the number you gave, but I am unable to decide at the moment. I am hoping that as I grow and learn more about tarot reading that I will better be able to decide.

4. I will not read for minors unless parental consent is given in person.
if reading to minors is illegal then count be out unless parental consent is given, I do insist that it be given in person. I've lost count how many times I forged my parents signature or a permission slip when I was younger...lol

5. I will not misrepresent the cards or myself and what our limitations are.
I want to make it clear to anyone who wants to have a reading done that what the cards say is not written in stone but rather what is most likely to happen based on current circumstances.

6. I will treat anyone I do a reading for with respect.
I believe this is self explanatory

7. All readings wil be 100% confidental.
Personal issues are often dealt with in a reading and nobody wants their personal issues aired to the world, including myself..:)

I will post question two before long but I am still working on it. I started out in one direction and then turned around and went in a complete differant direction.

Valkie

January 10th, 2005, 11:45 AM

This assignment has two parts, and it must be completed by Monday, January 10th.

1. Create your own code of ethics. Tell me why you chose the ethics you did.

2. Do reseach on one of the alternate uses of Tarot besides divination. Tell me everything you can about it. :) Oh, and don't forget to cite your sources.

Extra Credit: Play one of the games I listed in the games post. Tell me about your results. :)
Part one

-I can only tell what may happen, not what will. The furture can always be changed
-If there is something that should be looked into further, I will direct you to do so by a professional. I can only see what the cards show me and have no experience in medical, psychology, or law.
-everyone is a person first, and I will treat you as such no matter what your position in life may be.

I chose the first one because it is something that I do in astrology as well. Nothing is set in stone and it is up to the person and thier own decisions that tells the true outcome of a situation.

The second is because I know that there are things that I do not know and am not qualified to tell someone what they should do about it. There are better sources than I that she should use to make those decisions.

The third is because, well, everyone is a person first. They have the same emotions and feelings that I do and my personal feelings, no matter what they would be, have no place in the setting of a reading.

part two

Besides divination, tarot can be used in spell work. Using a card as a focus of where you want to be, what you want to bring to you, or what you want to be like are all valid reasons for joining the two together.

Say you want to in a happier home situation; you could use the 10 of cups as a focus of a perfect home life. Or the Sun card, with all the warmth and happiness that it shows.
Say you wanted to be better off finacially; you could use the 10 of penticals as a focus of stability or the World card to put everything in your grasp. If you wanted to more loving, you could use the Queen of cups or the Emperess.

When choosing a card to incorperate into your spell work, it should not only show what it is that you want to accomplish, but it should also appeal to you emotionally.

source http://www.bewitchingways.com/tarot/magick.htm

For the 'game', I decided to do the sacred cave. No, it wasn't because it was the first one on the list :D, this one just appealed to me more than the others.
Results:
1st position: 4 of wands reversed
2nd position: 7 of cups reversed
3rd position: Judgement
4th position: Knight of wands
5th position: 10 of swords
6th position: World

I'll admit, I'm slightly confused as to what it is suppose to mean.

Shana-chan

January 10th, 2005, 11:45 AM

Here's my response to the second half of the homework.

An alternate use for Tarot cards.
I chose to find a game (one that I could understand easily enough to explain o.o; ), and I managed to find a couple of story games.

For the first story game, you pull cards every sentence, and add to the story based on the card that you pulled.

The second story game, is a WHO, WHAT, and WHY card. In this game, the story that you make up has to have the WHO card learn a lesson in the end. First, you search your deck for a Court Card, which will become the who of your story. The who is the narrorator (that way you don't give away which card it is). You continute to search your deck until you find a pip card, which becomes the what card in the story. Then you keep searching until you find a Major Arcana card. That is the why card, the reason that she has this story. Don't tell anyone which cards that you drew.
The site explains the storytelling part of the game this way, "The story should involve an event indicated by the WHAT card. The WHO character should learn a lesson from the story, which is WHY s/he needs to have the WHAT experience."
After the person tells the story, someone guesses which cards where used, and if they guess right, they get to draw the next cards and tell the next story.

http://home.att.net/~jwricklef/Games.html

(I really suck at research -.-; )

halfwaynowhere

January 10th, 2005, 01:10 PM

Code of Ethics
1. When reading for someone, I usually tell them that this reading is by no means set in stone, that the reading may be misinterpreted, and if the person is a little too gullible or whatnot, I tell them that its for entertainment purposes only. Although that’s not entirely what I believe, I don’t wish to have people get all confused about something, or panic because they think its true. I make sure they know that its not fortune telling, its just showing one possible outcome.
2. While reading for others, I let them cut the cards so that their energies are on the cards when I do the reading, that way they influence the cards as well. I think it also makes them feel more comfortable with it, and they get the feeling that they are involved.
3. After readings, I always shuffle my cards and make sure that I am the last person who handles them, so that my energies will remain strong.

Tarot Games
Tarot cards possibly originated as playing cards. They were the first playing cards to introduce the Trumps concept. There are several different games using the cards, originating all throughout Europe. Some games use slightly different decks. The game Minchiate is played using 97 or 98 cards, for example. It is my understanding that the game Tarocchi is the most common game played with Tarot cards, with several variations. It is usually played with 62 or 63 cards. In central Europe, the Fool card is used as the highest trump value, as opposed to other games where the Fool is used as the lowest trump value, if it is even used at all. Tarot has only been used for occult purposes since the late 18th century. Only in the 20th century, it has become far more common to use the cards for divination rather than for their intended purpose as playing cards.

McLeod, John. "Card Games: Tarot Games." 18 Nov. 2004. Card Games: Tarot Games. 09 Jan. 2005 <http://www.pagat.com/tarot/>.

Madjek

January 10th, 2005, 02:59 PM

I haven't read anyone else's assignments yet so I hope I'm not repeating some of the same findings. I was also really sick last week so I'm sorry I'm handing this in at the last minute Amethyst Rose. It's not as good as I was hoping but I hope someone learns a little bit fromit at least. I know I did doing the research. But first off here's :

#1: My code of ethics:

1. I will not charge for doing a reading. The reason I decided to do this is because I have been ripped off before. I got a crappy reading and it was way overpriced. There was nothing genuine about that session. It left me with a sour taste. If I perform readings it will be because I want to, not because they are paying me. It would be up to them if they want to leave a tip or not.
2. All readings are confidential. I will not divulge the discussions had between the client and me. Unless life threatening or ordered by the court of law.
3. I reserve the right to limit the amounts of readings in a 31 day period. This to prevent over dependence on the cards.
4. No readings will be performed while the client is under the influence of any sorts. I believe the cards should be treated with respect and a lucid mind.
5. Readings will be limited to persons aged 18 and over or with written parental consent. This of course to protect myself legally.
6. I do not perform readings for third parties. I will not invade someone else’s privacy. Especially without their consent.
7. I will always tell the truth. No matter what the card show me; of course I would never frighten anyone either. I will use tact when explaining the cards.
8. My readings are no substitute for legal, medical or financial advice. I am not a MD, nor a lawyer or an financial adviser. If the client is looking for advice on these matters I will let them know the best person to go see would be.
9. I cannot predict the future. I can only give an idea of a probable outcome. The cards may only show us what might happen if nothing changes. Because of free will we are capable of changing our future.
10. I treat all my clients with the utmost respect. This of course regardless of ages, sex, race, sexual preference and mental state. I always treat my clients in the most professional manner.

#2: Alternate uses for the Tarot Cards:

Games and the Tarot

Since the Tarot was originally designed to play games I figured I would research one of the original games they were designed for as well as a few modern ones.

Tarocchi one of the oldest cards games and is also known as “Tarock”. The origins of Tarock was the game of “Trapola”. It is a trick- taking game similar to bridge. Trick-taking games are card games where each round of play is divided into units called tricks, during which each player selects one card from his or her hand. (For more information on trick taking games: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trick-taking_game ) This game was popular throughout Europe, especially in France where it is still played and known as “Tarot. Because this game became so popular there are an incredible amounts of variations. I will however explain the basic game.

The original 78-card deck contains:

• the four Latin suits of swords, batons, cups, and coins, numbered one through ten, with four court cards, a page, a knight, a queen, and a king
• the twenty-one tarot(Major Arcana), which function in the game as a permanent suit of “trumps” - these cards rank above the rest of the deck, the non-trump cards
• the Fool, also known as the Excuse or Joker, an un-numbered card that in some variations excuses the player from following suit or playing a trump, and in other acts as the strongest trump. (Trump may be derived either from the word Triumph a 1529 card game or from the French word “tromper” meaning to deceive or cheat)

It is best played with 3 players. After the dealer shuffles the pack he deals all the cards. The player on the right of the dealer starts by playing any card he desires. The following player must play a card of the same suits if none is available the he must play a trump card. If he does not have any he plays a card of a different suit and will lose it. Each “trick” is won by the highest card of the suit if no trumps were played, or by the highest trump. In traditional forms of the game, the cards within each suit rank as follows (from high to low):

swords and batons: King - Queen - Knight - Page - 10 - 9 - 8 - 7 - 6- 5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - ace
cups and coins: King - Queen - Knight - Page - ace - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 -7 - 8 - 9- 10

The fool can be played at any time even if the player has the suit or trump cards. It never wins a trick though. It is an “excuse” if you prefer not to play any of the cards in hand. The player who plays the Fool gets to keep it, handing over another card previously won to the winner of the trick, as a replacement for the Fool.

The person who wins the “trick” leads the next round. The game continues like this until all cards have been played.

When finished playing a hand, score it taken by adding the points on the cards in the “tricks” each player had acquired. Players get 1 point for every “trick” won, plus extra points for the “counting cards”.

• Pages = 1point
• Knights = 2points
• Queens = 3points
• Kings = 4points
• The Fool, or World card = 4 points each

The other Trumps don’t get any points.

The numbers on the cards are the only thing that matters for this game. The images don’t make a difference. Nowadays, in Tarot deck made especially for playing, as opposed to more occult purposes, use the French suits (spades, hearts, diamonds, and spades) instead of the traditional Latin ones mostly because they are more familiar.
This game reminds me of one I use to play when I was in High school we called it “A** Hole”.

Here are a couple of other games I found while doing some research that I think they are great. They definitely will help a beginner get familiar with the cards and take a closer look at them. They are from: http://home.att.net/~jwricklef/Games.html There are other games on her site as well.

The Tarot Story

The first person pulls a card and uses it to start a story. Then the next person pulls a card and continues the story, etc. Each person is free to use what’s on the card either literally or not. Some people pick up on a bit of the symbolism, which they use to incorporate some concept into the story.

You will generally end up with a rather interesting story, but more than that, it’s illuminating to see how people interpreted what is on their card and use it to further the story -- it often says a lot about them, whether they realize it or not. Also, there are often insights about the cards that are brought out that you may never have thought of before.

Liar’s Poker revisited

This is probably one of the first poker games you ever encountered. It was designed originally to win or lose money in a quick and efficient manner. With the rewrite, it becomes a great way for a group of students to share their perceptions of what the images in the cards convey.

One Tarot deck is shuffled and one card is dealt face down to each player, who immediately picks his card up without looking at it and places it on his forehead facing the other players. If you are doing this right, everyone will look very silly at this point in the game.

Starting with the player to the left of the dealer, each person goes around the circle to his left and gives a keyword for each card they see. The added rule here is that you cannot use a word that is printed on or permanently associated with the card, e.g. Strength, Temperance, etc. Players must use a word that could honestly be associated with the card, but creativity and imagination is encouraged. It is not uncommon for student to consult Thesauruses prior to playing. Now, everyone tries to guess his or her own card. If someone in the circle has trouble guessing their card, another round of hints can be given. This can be repeated as often as necessary, it is suggest that the hints become more obvious with each round.

This game will leave players with a wealth of new definitions for each card. This game is also good for intermediate students who are trying to increase the number of keywords per card.

Sources:
http://home.att.net/~jwricklef/Games.html - Night Hawks Tarot website
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarocchi - wikipedia
http://www.tarothermit.com/ - Tarot Hermit
http://home.swipnet.se/~w-64324/tarock1.htm - Catching the Moon

Lolith

January 10th, 2005, 03:03 PM

Ok, I managed to do a few of the extra credit games. I tried 2 of the games, the Sacred Cave and Fish. I thought they would be fun to play, and they were. I was planing on posting the results, but they turned out a little more personal than I thought they would.

Fish showed me that I have some internal issues, and that with some hard work and understanding, I'll come out rewarded in the end. It was quick and to the point, but really hit me kind of hard. It was the first card in that spread that hit the nerve that I've been dealing with for a while. One of those things that have worked their way to the back of your head so you manage to forget about it most of the time. It was quite a shock to see it drawn, and obviously shows that it's something I should deal with.

The Sacred Cave was not as hardhitting as the first game. Instead of bringing up hidden struggles, it brought to light ones that I know that I am dealing with currently. I mainly think it had to do with my feelings of restlessness and wanting to find a place that I belong (kind of a long story). The cards brought up my feelings of caution, want of change, and clouded future. They showed me what I want in my life, mainly harmoy, fulfillment, and reward for hard work. Finally, it is my intuition and insight that empowers me.

I did make a note of what the cards were, so if you want me to PM it to you I can do that. I would be able to elaborate more on them, but would rather do that in private than post them for everybody to see. I hope that is understandable.

Devi

January 10th, 2005, 03:25 PM

I tried a few games. They were fun to do. I'm not posting all my readings but these are the spreads I did.

Book Game
Chapter in my life-right now
New Vision -Hanged man

Magic Wand

knight of air
the fool
2 of air
6 of earth
Death
Princess of cups
ace of earth
page of air
King of Fire

I haven't deciphered this one yet it was a little more complicated for me.

SACRED CAVE - Any time you need to feel the arms of the Mother wrapped around you, you can play Sacred Cave. The Tarot will show you how to give yourself the nurturing you need.

---------------- 4
----------3------------5
----2-----------1------------6

CARD 1: Where I am now-The Sun
I feel this is referring to my extreme closeness I've been feeling towards my family especially my husband(We've planned to start a family soon)

CARD 2: Empowers me-Judgment
My mom and hubby both think that I give good advice and they both use me as a sound board for decisions.

CARD 3: Keeps me company-4 of fire
This is referring to my family which I hold close and dear. They are usually the company I keep.

CARD 4: Shelters me-knight of water
I get this card alot. I feel its saying my strengths lie in my intuitions if I can calm the static in my mind.

CARD 5: What I seek here-3 of air
This confused me at first because I'm thinking no way am I'm seeking heartbreak but in the goddess tarot handbook the meaning of 3 of swords can also mean Oversensitivity which I can be sometimes and a time of healing which is what I'm going through right now.

CARD 6: What I feel the need to create-9 of air
I feel this is a cautious warning for me to recognize my tendency towards chronic anxiety and depression.

WITCH's HAT - Put this on when you need to feel empowered (feel free to cackle as you do this spread <G>).

------------------------5
----------------------4 3
----------------\2\-------------\1\

Notes:
The bottoms of Cards 3 and 4 should angle outward slightly, forming a cone. Cards 1 and 2 are placed sideways and may be read upright or reversed.

Mix the cards face down and choose five at random, placing them face up in the pattern above.

CARDs 1 and 2: The brim of your hat, these cards will give you information on what you need in order to take flight, to send your energy out.

The Fool
Knight of fire
The description for these two include-
New Beginnings,Trust & new ideas & Communication done with intensity and passion

CARDs 3 and 4: The Cone; the sides of your hat that lead up to the point, these cards tell you where your power lies or what to do in order to feel strong

Knight of air
8 of water
The description for these two include-
Written communication, Articulation,Influence & letting go of old habits or things that no longer benefit you

CARD 5: The Point; what you need to send out into the universe, or where you've been aiming. If you don't like the look of this card, examine the others for ways to change it.

8 of fire
The description for this card includes-
Energetic movement. Important communications.

Most of these cards deal with some sort of communication and with the the fool card I'm feeling like this reading is saying that I will see a sudden expansion and new start on my opportunities for work. ( Which deals with communication in a way )

* Descriptions were gotten from the goddess tarot handbook and the osho zen handbook

Rainlily

January 10th, 2005, 03:53 PM

Lesson 2 alternative uses
I tried researching past life readings and I was unable to find a lot of information on the subject. This is what i get for switching subjects halfway through an assignment, but to be honest I found the idea of a past life reading so intriguing that I felt I had to switch.
I was really only able to find one page on past life readings (although there is no lack of people offering past life readings) there was three differant spreads given for past life readings and this particular one interested me the most.
12 cards are spread out in a circle with a 13th card in the middle. Cards 1 to 6 are placed in the bottom half of the circle going counter clockwise, Cards 7 to 12 are placed in the top half of the circle going clockwise. I tried to do a diagram here but it didn't quite look right.
Cards 7-11 represent a recent lifetime
Cards 1-5 represent a distant lifetime
Cards 6, 12 and 13 are related to your present life.

cards 1 and 7 are who you were
cards 2 and 8 are what you did
cards 3 and 9 what your purpose was in your past lives
cards 4 and 10 show if and how your purpose was attained
cards 5 and 11 show what was carried forward into your present life from these past lives
cards 6 and 12 show how these things manifest in your present life.
and finally card 13 shows what your current purpose is in life in relation to these past lives.
the cards are read in numerical order

http://www.tarotmoon.com/articles/Past_Life_II/past_life_ii.html

Ok now I am going to go play some games I think I may need the extra credit plus they look like fun:)

Dashifen

January 10th, 2005, 09:23 PM

I will be honest about what I see in the cards, following my intuition and my knowledge of the cards, in an effort to provide the best interpretation of the cards that I can.

I will listen to the ideas and interpretations of those for which I read considering that they know their situation much better than I.

I will offer advice when asked for it and will remind those to whom I provide advice that I am not a trained psychologist, lawyer, financial advisor, interior decorator or hit man, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night (sorry, couldn’t resist).

When reading on the internet, I will attempt to give as much information about the meaning of the cards without making guesses or assumptions based on too little information.

Thought of two more while brushing my teeth that I wanted to add. A few others had lines similar to these but I wanted to put all of mine together in one place.

All readings will be kept confidential unless the person for whom I'm reading agrees to share the information with others. In that case, that person must be present and give me permision ... none of that "Well, she said I could hear about her reading.... Really!!" jazz.

When struck by a particularly interesting, amusing, insigtful, or otherwise important card or series of cards, I reserve the right to take some notes about the meaning at the moment for my own personal learning experience with the cards. These notes will not be made public in anyway other than through the evolutionary process of understanding and interpreting the cards.

Eternal Seeker

January 10th, 2005, 09:33 PM

Okay, this one has been a little tough. You see, I don't plan on reading the tarot for others, I only plan to use it for my own personal development. That being said, however, life is full of unexpected situations, and I should be prepared. It's still not any easier to develop an ethical system in this instance though. So, rather than create a new system, I shall adapt one I'm already familiar with to these circumstances.

Many of us have played, or are familiar with, a series of computer games developed by Lord British: the Ultima series. Beginning with the fourth game in the series, and in most of the games following, an everpresent feature was the system of The Eight Virtues. It was essentially a code of ethics that the player was supposed to adhere to in the games. Having played most of the games in the series, it is a system of ethics which I am very familiar with, and it is this system I will use.

Here, then, are the eight virtues and their applicatications to my usage of the Tarot:

Honesty: I will be honest about what I see in a reading.
The entire point of using the Tarot is to learn something, either about a specific situation, about ourselves, etc. How can we learn if we deny what we see? Neither can we lie about what we see to another we're reading for. If the Tarot is to be of any use at all, we must be honest about what we see in the cards.

Compassion: I will be sensitive to the needs of those I am reading for.
When you perform a reading for another, it is always important to remember that the person you're reading for is another human being, just like yourself. They have feelings, and that must be remembered. While we should not be dishonest about anything we see in the cards, we should also report what we see with compassion, give alternative meanings, and give hope in bleak situations.

Valor:
This was the hardest virtue to relate to the Tarot. Valor usually refers bravery, especially in battle. Battle and Tarot? Huh? Finally, a message broke through: Mankind, living in a dualistic universe, has two sides to his nature, light and dark. The Tarot can be used as a tool to explore our own psychological makeup, including our darker side. Many cannot accept what they see in themselves. I must show valor when dealing with the darker side of my nature.

Justice: I will endeavor to learn any laws that directly or indirectly relate to Tarot readings in my area.
Law enforcement officials and judges are fond of saying "Ignorance of the law is no excuse." Regardless of how ignorant or misinformed a law or ordainance may be, it is still the responsibility of all citizens to obey it, unless it would put someone in jeapordy. If reading the Tarot is illegal in the local area, then the law must be obeyed, and no readings for fee should be done.

Sacrifice: If a client cannot afford to pay, I will endeavor to arrange a suitable fee, or waive the fee.
If a person is in genuine need of guidance, I believe I should assist as I can. My primary motive in reading the cards is psychological and spiritual knowledge, and guidance. I cannot deprive another of the same if they are genuinely in need of it, merely because they cannot pay me for it.

Honor: I will not allow myself or others to become dependant upon the Tarot. I will repect the confidentiality of the client.

Spirituality: I will use the Tarot primarily as a psychological tool and a means of spiritual advancement.
While doing mundane "fortune telling" can be fun, and divination about situations in life can be useful, the Tarot can, and should, be used for higher purposes. Its ability to give us insights into our inner makeup, and show us where we can improve on ourselves far outweigh its use in mundane divination.

Humility: I will endeavor to remain a humble servant.
If reading for another, I will represent myself only as a person who has taken time to learn the Tarot. I will not "put on airs" to try to impress anyone. I am no better or worse than any other human for having learned to read the Tarot. As a reader, my job is to serve the client to the best of my ability.

Dashifen

January 10th, 2005, 09:37 PM

Fan of Ultima: Quest for the Avatar much? Great way to approach ethics, though :)

Nevermind, had I read your opening paragraphs and not just the code of ethics, I would have seen that you mentioned Ultima there. Active reading, Dash.

_taparoo_

Eternal Seeker

January 10th, 2005, 09:40 PM

"If you want to get back to your own apartments, you'll have to leave the admiring to me," I told him. "We're too low on matches to be art critics at this point."
He pouted a bit, but moved to the other wall and began sketching as soon as I struck a light.
He sketched a tiny study, a skull on the desk, a globe beside it, walls full of books all around.
"Now that's good," he said, when I had finished the third pack and was starting on the remaining partial pack.
It took him six more to finish up and one to sign it.
He gazed at it while the eighth match burned - there were only two remaining - then he took a step forward and was gone.

So reads Lord Corwin's account of Dworkin's drawing of a Trump on the wall of his jail cell, and how Dworkin used it return to his own living quarters. (From Nine Princes in Amber by Roger Zelazny)

Although a work of fiction, would it surprise you to learn that there is some truth behind the strange tales of walking through Trumps? No, I haven't completely lost my mind... yet. The reality is not that of physically walking through a Trump, however.

Many of the assignments have written of meditation. Meditation on Tarot cards is fairly common. I consider this to be akin to listening to someone who's just returned from a vacation tell about the place they visited. You formulate ideas and opinions based on the information you recieve. But where does the information come from? The Tarot cards represent archtypes. Many generations of people have studied them, meditated on them, used them... all contributing energy and ideas to the archtype, which exists on the astral plane. When someone meditates upon the Tarot, they connect to the archtype on the astral, and "tune into" the ideas there.

There are techniques which go beyond meditation, and to learn of them, we need once again study the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

Disclaimer: These techniques are advanced techniques used by the highest grades in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. Beginners should not attempt to use these. The Golden Dawn instructed its members in various elemental, astrological, Sephirothic, and Hebrew correspondences until they knew them inside out, backwards and forwards. They were used in testing information obtained on higher planes. For example, if you were exploring the plane of air, and saw a lion, you would know the vision was corrupted: a lion corresponds to fire. Also, the Golden Dawn members had months or years practice with the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram, something which would be essential in some cases in the astral. Anyone with similar knowledge and experience should be able to practice these techniques safely, while others should wait until they're more developed.

The Golden Dawn techniques we will study are Skrying in the Spirit Vision, and Travelling in the Spirit Vision (which builds upon the first).

From Guide to the Golden Dawn Enochian Skrying Tarot:

The word "skrying" comes from the old English word descry, meaning "to see". Today the word "skrying" is usually limited to the idea of perceiving psychic visions by the use of an object, such as a mirror, a crystal, or a bowl of water. Skrying is a method of clairvoyance that involves seeing into the astral world, the invisible blueprint behind all physcial manifestation.
...
Skrying is usually done by using a painted symbol - such as a Tattva or elemental symbol. But it is also performed using Tarot cards, planetary symbols, and Enochian pyramids.
...
Skrying and astral traveling can be described as forms of self-hypnosis that use symbols in order to cause changes in consciousness. From these higher levels of consciousness, the magician often tried to see the underlying cause of things - to work at a problem from a higher angle or perspective - to get inside the machinery of the universe and see what makes it tick.

Why the use of a painted symbol? To provide a focus of concentration. In meditation, you focus your thoughts on a concept or idea. With skrying, you focus your vision and thoughts on a symbol, since it relies on clairvoyance, the vision of the mind.

Technique One: Skrying in the Spirit Vision

The skrier would first review all correspondences for the chosen Tarot card. This could include element, astrological sign, planet, Sephiroth, Hebrew letter, etc. Then, the skrier would perform the banishing ritual, and proceed to gaze at the card. The symbol would be replaced by a vision of an astral landscape: the area of astral corresponding to the archtype the symbol represents. After the vision ends, the skrier would again perform the banishing ritual.

Technique Two: Travelling in the Spirit Vision

This technique begins as with skrying. After banishing, the skrier would gaze upon the symbol. Here is where the technique diverges: the skier can either continue skrying until a scene appears, enlarge it, and project into it, or: enlarge the symbol, and when it is crystal clear, step through it as if it were an open door. Once arriving at the destination, the traveller is free to move around and experience the landscape of the archtype firsthand. After returning to the mundane world, the traveller again performs the banishing ritual.

If meditation is like listening to someone who's just returned from a vacation tell about the place they visited, then skrying is like watching a travellogue or documentary about the place on TV, and travelling in the spirit vision is actually going there yourself. All three techniques are valid, useful tools, but you learn much more from skrying and travelling in the spirit vision than from meditation alone.

Sources:

The Golden Dawn by Israel Regardie
The Tree of Life by Israel Regardie
Self-Initiation into the Golden Dawn Tradition by Chic and Sandra Tabitha Cicero
Guide to the Golden Dawn Enochian Skrying Tarot by Bill and Judi Genaw & Chic and Sandra Tabitha Cicero
http://www.osogd.org/library/rolls/roll04.html

Eternal Seeker

January 10th, 2005, 09:43 PM

Fan of Ultima: Quest for the Avatar much? Great way to approach ethics, though :)

Thanks! Having played most of the games, the ethics system Lord British created is very familiar to me, and I've found myself thinking at various times things like "That would not be honorable" or "I must show more compassion." It's a useful tool. :uhhuhuh:

Rainlily

January 10th, 2005, 10:52 PM

Ok I tried three of the games, there were fun but as a beginner I had trouble understanding what the cards were trying to say. I think I will just post what cards I got and save myself some embarassment lol..

Ok first one sacred cave

1. Where I am now--6 of cups
2. what empowers me--4 of wands
3. What keeps me company--knight of pentacles
4. what shelters me--3 of pentacles
5. What I seek here--8 of wands
6. what I feel the need to create--4 of cups reversed

I also tried the witches broom

What I am working to get rid of

1. the emperor
2. the devil
3. 5 of cups

ideas I need to apply

4.high priestess
5. ace of cups
6. ace of wands

What I need to get a grip on
7. 7 of wands
8. 3 of cups
9. 6 of cups

I also tried the wand of power, my third card was a wand and it was the 6 of wands.

celticfire

January 10th, 2005, 11:41 PM

EXTRA CREDIT

i have been a bit leary of these games...i think its because i'm too 'involved' right now in certain processes of my life that its all coming up the same thing. and yes, its the majority of what i've been thinking about and dealing with.

1. Sacred Cave
card 1 - 9 of wands
card 2 - ace of cups
card 3 - the moon
card 4 - 6 of wands
card 5 - the high priestess
card 6 - 4 of cups

ok, to me this was pretty good. it showed me that i'm being overly cautious about my own abilities. i'm not trusting enough in myself right now, both personally and professionally, but that in order for me to move forward, i need to believe in my dreams, and myself. there is some indication of success or that problems will be overcome, while seeking to achieve my dreams. card 6 (what i feel the need to create) was right on. i need to have that drive in my life...the need to feel challenged mentally...this enables me to achieve my goals.

2. Fish
card 1 - wheel of fortune
card 2 - six of swords
card 3 - prince of pentacles

this one was a bit odd for me. i didn't really 'feel' the cards when i played this one...the only way i know to describe it is as if i were being distracted. but here's my interpretation:

What I have to offer the universe at this time? the ability to change, adapt and to gain control for decision making

What I catch from the cosmic pool? the ability to overcome challenges or obstacles in order to achieve my aspirations and goals

What I'll make of it? ok...this is where i'm confused. this card to me signifies that good news is coming, but how do i make that out of it? to me, that is something that is desired (i.e. to hear back from an interview or for an interview; a promotion at present employer, etc)

4. Prosperity
card 1 - 7 of swords
card 2 - 10 of cups
card 3 - 5 of swords
card 4 - 9 of swords

this one was pretty good about my present situation. here is what i got from the game:

card 1 (present state of material reality) i've been and am presently feeling cut down at work...by my boss and her boss especially. with time, it hasn't gotten better and there 'feels' like there is quite alot of backstabbing going on.

card 2 (what makes me feel needy) my family...it can be overwhelming and sometimes cumbersome...but for the most part, i enjoy the need to be needed. it reinforces my feelings of being able to do it all (family, career, spiritual growth).

card 3 (what mes me feel rich) this one made no sense...because conflict does not make me feel rich. :(

card 4 (what i need to do to find my own true prosperity) i need to let go of the overwhelming negative energies presented by others. not let myself get 'sucked in' the way i sometimes do.

NEW MOON

card 1 - king of swords
card 2 - queen of swords
card 3 - the druid
card 4 - six of pentacles
card 5 - the high priestess

ok...this is what i got:

that i tend to be the creative force/idea behind projects at home, work and with others. i'm always brainstorming and seeking the next challenge. my logic is the force that shapes things...i'm so analytical and even though creative, very cautious. i expend alot of energy making sure things are RIGHT! and everything has to have a plan. at the center of it, the druid is perfect. its my quest for knowledge that is one of my greatest personal satisfactions. i thirst for knowledge and sometimes let it overwhelm me because i have a hard time stopping and not getting too involved. the truth is so important to me...in and of all things. what is needed by it? hard work...perserverance...dedication...strength of will. need i say more? and where is it going? moving forward to have a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. to continue to question in order to strengthen my powers and abilities.

these were great fun!

linaXgrazzada

January 10th, 2005, 11:45 PM

Sacred Cave
where I am now- the fool
what empowers me- the tower
what keeps me company- the 10 of cups
what shelters me- page of pentacles
what i seek here- the heirophant
what i feel i need to create- death

i think it all means and has to do with my present state of anxiety about the next year, going to college and moving out and what not

Prosperity

the present state of my material reality- three of wands
what makes me feel needy- the star
what makes me feel rich- the 3 of pentacles
what i need to do to gain prosperity- the king of cups

Iris

Seed- world
sprout- 3 of wands
leaf and stem- the sun
outcome:
- strength
-judgement
-page of pentacles

Autumn Eryn

January 11th, 2005, 12:25 AM

Part 2 -- Tarot as Art Muse

I started to “look outside the box” for this assignment, so to speak. One of the things that jumps out for me is the images of the decks, so I started looking at how people use tarot as art.

Of course, the obvious first pass equals artist designs tarot deck. But digging just a little deeper, I found that folks are doing a lot more than just that.

Many people will sell blown-up versions of their cards, some even add text to expand it out from a traditional tarot meaning. But the mixed media were the most interesting for me.

I found people who took a tarot card, researched it, then designed their own as a quilt. An American (obviously) designed a whole deck using legos – not to be used as a deck, mind you, this is an art project. Lunea Weatherstone takes tarot images and creates collages. Depictions of the major arcane in mixed media sculpture from a Canadian artist. Chris Paradis made a silent movie about a tarot reader that was based on a T.S. Eliot poem. Lynn Dewart interprets tarot cards as fascinating dolls.

And then there’s Melanie Doerman, who explains her work this way: " Here we are onto something different. I have a long standing interest in the Tarot. So I thought I would express each one of the 22 Major Arcana cards as a ceramic vessel and decorate it with beads.”

I really didn't know how far from calendars and notecards I'd get when I started researching this, but I was really surprised at the many ways tarot cards are inspiring people to do other things artistic.

http://www.haikudesigns.com/tarotx.htm
http://www.joycehartley.com/taqpdeck/
http://www.joycehartley.com/tarot.htm
http://www.marizart.com/tarot_comp/
http://www.geocities.com/tarocchi2000tarocchi/index2.htm

Eternal Seeker

January 11th, 2005, 02:04 AM

Sacred Cave

CARD 1: Where I am now

2 of Wands: The ruler of all he surveys.
I guess this fits my current situation. Although I currently have no job, all my needs are met. I have all the necessities of life, and many luxuries. (DSL, whee!) I pretty much do what I want.
CARD 2: Empowers me

7 of Swords: The schemer.
Plots and schemes, plans and dreams. I do seem to spend a lot of time fantasizing about I would like to do, if I could.
CARD 3: Keeps me company

8 of Swords: The prisoner.
All too true, I am a prisoner of sorts. My mother is a fundamentalist Christian, bordering on extremism. I cannot express openly my own beliefs. (I'm not a minor, but live with my mother.)
CARD 4: Shelters me

4 of Wands: The stronghold.
Tranquility and harmony. This applies doubly: I detest loud noises, and do not like conflict in relationships.
CARD 5: What I seek here

3 of Wands: The merchant.
Financial independence is indeed what I seek, for it is the key to escaping the confinement in card 3.
CARD 6: What I feel the need to create

4 of Swords: The peace of the grave.
An end to the cycle of reincarnation, no more worries of the material world.

I really did mix the cards! And, they seem to be quite accurate.

Aidron

January 11th, 2005, 06:23 AM

How interesting. Your Sacred Cave could have quite literally been my own, Eternal, right down to the letter. :hmmmmm:

-Sky-

January 11th, 2005, 08:19 AM

Something annoying happened yesterday :( I came here to post my extra credit and I did,almost.I've written a long message with the 3 games i played,all the interpretations from the tarot books and my comments.But when i clicked the button to post it,it trensferred my to perfect navigator or something and the msg was lost.It was probably my mistake and I am really sorry Amethyst Rose.
If you have to mark the assignements soon mark mine without the extra credit.But i will post it again as soon as i can,i just don't have time to do it now.

I'm really sorry again.
~Anna

Amethyst Rose

January 11th, 2005, 12:04 PM

Here, then, are the eight virtues and their applicatications to my usage of the Tarot:

That's a really interesting way of doing your ethics. Thanks, I enjoyed reading them. :)

Amethyst Rose

January 11th, 2005, 12:09 PM

But when i clicked the button to post it,it trensferred my to perfect navigator or something and the msg was lost.

Uhg! Don't you hate it when that happens? No problem, hand it in when you have the time, or don't at all, it's up to you. :)

Brielle LaLune

January 11th, 2005, 02:06 PM

I know I'm a lil late, but I wanted to do this anyway. :o) I found it to be super accurate of where I am in my life right now. I gues I shouldn't be suprised...the Tarot haven't lied to me yet! :D

1. Where I am now: Queen of Shields - A sensible, considerate woman who uses her power to help those less fortunate. Dignified, with a strong sense of responsibilty.

2. What empowers me: Queen of Spears - Spiritual strength and understanding. Sensitivity to the well-being of others, encouragement of others' aspirations. Love of nature.

3. Keeps me company: Six of Cups - Nostalgia, fond memories of the past, old friends.

4. Shelters me: Ace of Shields - Enrichment of the spirit, freedom and confidence. Combination of emotional and material well-being.

5. What I seek here: Judgement - The awakening of one's true path/destiny. Effort to inderstand life's higher purpose. A cross-roads, improvement, development, change.

6. What I feel the need to create: Two of Cups - Love, union, strong emotional bonds. Emotional stability within a romance, a harmonious domestic life.

Wolfscout1

January 12th, 2005, 09:10 AM

yes i know i'm late with my extra credit but i was um
detained.
i played several games that was listed but i liked the Magic Wand best.
I played as instructed.

1st card - Ace of Swords = seeker is a champion , hero or leader. also could be attainment of power or goals.-- yes
Second card - pulled was the Knight of Wands = A journey. Practical action taken in spite of distractions. A change of residence. -- yes , tells me of my growing ability to maintain focus and multitask when needed to complete the task at hand. nice.
3rd 5 of Wands = unsatisfied desires -- yes
4th 8 of swords = paralysis due to indecisions, censure, illnes difficulties. nearly impossible task. -- yep i know of this situation.
5th 8 of Wands -= swift activity, hope, freedom of action == hmm i have been very busy lately in many different interests in my life. might be a timely pulled card.

Amethyst Rose

January 12th, 2005, 12:00 PM

yes i know i'm late with my extra credit but i was um
detained.
i played several games that was listed but i liked the Magic Wand best.
I played as instructed.

Don't worry about being late, assignments can be handed in at anytime, besides, I'm sure what you were being detained by was important. ;) I'm glad that this game worked out for you, and I hope the cards are becoming a little easier to read.

Jackiedanielz

January 17th, 2005, 11:25 AM

oops, I posted this in the wrong spot yesterday. Here it it:

Ok, I just want to mention that I barely read any of the previous threads on Part 2 but I'm sure your answers are pretty much getting to be sounding the same.

Because I don't do spell work I figured that using Tarot as a mediation would be something wonderful to talk about. Mostly because I know that this is what I could use my cards for the most these days. Each day you are to pick one card and reflect on it throughout the day. Not only will this help you to get to know your deck a bit better, you can use it as a guide of what to expect througout the days events.

Say you pull the tower. Now you know something is going to be falling apart in some way throughout the day. I would take it as a warning to keep my mouth shut & stay out of any happenings for the day. In the book that I have been reading they use this card as a perfect example. This woman was working at a dinner, she had pulled the tower earlier that day. Food orders were coming out wrong, the boss was yelling at everyone, it was pretty much mayhem thoughout her shift. But because she used this card she was able to know enough to stay out of it. Within the next few days a few people had been fired because of situations that took place that particular day. Luckily for this woman she stayed on the sidelines & kept her job.

Now some people can use their cards as guided mediations. They look at the card, the colors, the symbols, the people, the animals, the scenary. They will step into their cards within their mediation and ask the card what it is that they need to learn from it, they interact with what they saw in their card. I believe this is also another great way to learn about your deck because it is speaking directly to you and you only pull out the knowledge from it that speaks to you, instead of what other peoples opinions are about that specific card.

What I think is so great about pulling a card every day & meditating on it, is that I know I will get a lot of the same cards over & over again. Its like my deck is knocking on the side of my head, saying "hello, we're trying to tell you something here. This needs to be fixed!". I'm pretty much having to start my life all over right now & what's great about this is that I am learning so much more about myself and which directions to take because the cards are showing me more things than I could ever have imagined. Their not telling me about the future, they're showing me, well, me!

Only source:
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Tarot (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1592570666/qid=1105935367/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/002-6979329-6486420?v=glance&s=books) by Arlene Tognetti, Lisa Lenard, Lisa Lenard-Cook

Rowan MoonDragon

January 17th, 2005, 02:28 PM

Extra Credit

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

K....here's my extra credit....I actually did it awhile ago, but everytime I went to post it I didn't have my notes. I hope its not too late. I did the Magic Wand.

The Magic Wand

My 3rd card was a wand

The Fool - frest start or beginning

Queen of Pentacles - generosity, security, magnificence, liberty

King of Wands - friendly, countryman, married, and honest

Amethyst Rose

January 18th, 2005, 03:28 PM

oops, I posted this in the wrong spot yesterday. Here it it:

Just curious, Jackie...did you hand in Part 1 of the assignment yet? Cuz I looked but couldn't find it...didn't know if you you just did part 2 first, or what. :)

Valkie

January 18th, 2005, 03:52 PM

AR, Jackie posted part one of lesson two in lesson 2's actual lesson.

Amethyst Rose

January 18th, 2005, 04:17 PM

Ah, thanks!

Jackiedanielz

January 18th, 2005, 04:44 PM

Ah, thanks!
Ah, so I posted in the wrong place twice, huh? :durrrr: Yup, its gonna be a crazzzzzzy week, I can see it now. :crown:

AmethystMoon08

January 21st, 2005, 09:09 PM

Part 2.

Tarot is used for enterainment purposes. Tarot can be used during parties, along as for a fun time.
Many people set up tarot stands at family gatherings and parties. People read for their friends and family, while others are hired and do not know any of the querents. Some people seem to think that not knowing the querents is better, which is why many readers do not read for family and friends.
People use tarot cars as a game,just like people use regular cards. This is fun fact, and will likely never change.

*Sources- previous knowledge/Tarot:Plain and simple - Anthony Lewis

faerieridingdragons

January 25th, 2005, 05:57 PM

My code of ethics in no particular order is as follows:
I would tell them that I cannot predict the future,I can only tell them what may happen.I will remind them that their different choices can affect the outcome.This way they will know that nothing is 100%absolute and changes can affect the outcome.
What is discussed in a reading is confidential and shall remain so.My clients need to know they can trust me or else I'll not only be doing a disservice to them,but to myself aswell.
I will not do a reading for any of my family members,but will refer them to another reader.I do well to stay out of their life choices as it is and don't need them asking me to do a reading as it would definitely be biased.
I can only tell them what I see in the cards,my own personal interpretation of their meanings.I will be as honest as possible while not causing undue anxiety,but I will not lie to them.They need to know that not every reader is going to give the same exact reading for the same question,as every person has their own interpretation of their deck.
I am not a substitute for a doctor,lawyer,or accountant.I would advise them to seek advice from the appropiate resource.
I will treat everyone with respect and would expect the same from any who come to me for a reading.If they come to me in a mocking mood or are disrespectful to me I would immediately ask them to leave.
I will not do a reading for a minor without a legal guardian's consent.Not only because it's against the law,but because I would not want someone doing so for my child without my consent.I would however tell their guardian that what we discuss in a reading is private and I will not tell what was said.
I will take great care of my cards,and not use them when I am not at my best{physcial or emotional wise}.Or if the person the reading is for is intoxicated or high.My decks do not need to become muddy with unhealthy vibratitions.
I will continue to learn and to evolve,so that I may become a more enlightened reader.I believe we must soak up as much knowledge as we can in order to better ourselves.
_vb_

faerieridingdragons

January 25th, 2005, 06:35 PM

Although I'm not the first to bring up the subject of doing spells using tarot,and I'll definitely not be the most descriptive one either here goes.I bought this book Tarot Spells by Janina Renee several months ago.According to the book all you need to do is go through your deck and find the cards that the spell requires,then arrange them as the spell says to.It also says that you need not be familiar with your deck to do these spells,but I haven't done any of the spells in this book as I believe that one should be intune with their deck before trying this type of magick.This book also contains affirmations that can be used to enhance postive thinking on a daily basis,which is probably what I'll be using more of.The three card spread is the most popular for these spells.The layouts are as follows:

subject-ation necessary-object desired
past-present-future
first event-second event-third event
initial action-progress-outcome
influence-subject-influnce
However the book says that layouts can also be protective crosses,steps leading upward or downward,pyramids showing the ascent of a matter,or inverted pyramids showing the descent of a matter.Meditation and visualization is a very important to doing these types spells,and basicly 3/4 of the spell consists of this part.It will probably be awhile before I atempt any of these spells as I'm still working on my visualization skills.This is all I can think of for now,although knowing me I'll remember something else I wanted to say later on and will end up having to add on to this.

faerieridingdragons

January 25th, 2005, 07:14 PM

I did Magic Wand.Here is what I got:
1st card was Nine of Cups,which was reversed.meaning is lack of fulfillment,material losses.
2nd card was Ace of Pentacles,also reversed.meaning is corruption,greed,looking to material realm for happiness,miserliness.
3rd card was Ten of Cups,also reversed.meaning is bikering,disagreement,dysfunctional family life,loss of friendship,stagnation,unhappiness.
4th card was Queen of Cups,it too was reversed.meaning is dishonest,illogical,unreliable.
5th card was The Emperor,also reversed.meaning is undisciplined character,lack of control cultivates weakness of character and a loss of personal power.
6th card was 4 of Wands,it as all of the others was reversed.meaning is completion delayed but forthcoming.
I don't know why all of these cards were reversed,when I checked the rest of my deck there was only one other card that was reversed.I can however say that the reading was true to me and what has being going on in my life as of late.The meanings for the cards was taken out of the LWB that came with the deck.

MBeeHny

January 26th, 2005, 02:44 AM

Code of Ethics.

1. I would first tell the person how much experience I have on Tarot.
2. I would say that what I tell them about their future is not set in stone, that you can always change your future. What I'm reading is based on the energy that's coming from him/her at the moment now.
3. I would keep the reading confidential between the querent and myself.
4. I would try to give them my best explanation about each card based on my experience.
5. I would not lie about what I see in the reading.
6. I would keep questions open if the querent feels confused or misunderstands anything regarding the reading.
7. I would be in a good mood during the reading and not feel agitated or upset about something or tired, or else I won't do the reading at all.
8. The querent has to believe in Tarot and have a good attitude about my doing a reading for him/her, and have a good vibe about the whole thing or else there's no reading.
9. There's no age limit. I feel that everyone is entitled to have readings, unless your a little kid, then you would have to have permission from a parent.
10. I won't ask anybody for money in exchange for a reading because I don't feel it's fair. If somebody needs advice with Tarot, then we as humans should have compassion over another soul and never try to sell our good intentions.

-----------------------------------------------

Sorry this assignment is late. I've had busy couple of days especially when my mom and dad left to travel and I had to babysit.
I'm barely catching up so bare with me with the other assignments...thanks.

MBeeHny

January 26th, 2005, 02:59 AM

You can use Tarot with Playing Cards...... they call it "Fortune Telling with Playing Cards"
Cartomancy, or Fortune Telling with playing cards has been around for centuries. It is unclear whether the deck we now play games with was originally 78 cards and was cut down to the basics or if the the Tarot was based on the playing cards and expanded. Regardless of that answer, here is one way (of many) to tell fortunes with playing cards.

HEARTS

Ace: Has to do with one's home or environment. Could represent a visit or a change of address

King: Represents an influential man, someone who has the power or ability to do something good for the querent.

Queen: A trusted woman. Someone knowledgeable and faithful. One who always plays fair.

Jack:A good friend to the querent, someone close, a cousin or confidant, someone they have known since childhood or for a long time.

10:A good card: means good luck, can counteract bad cards around it.

9:Harmony. Often called the Wish Card. If surrounded by bad cards, these can represent obstacles that need to be dealt with in order to get the fulfillment of the wish.

8:An event, a celebration, a party/bash, etc. Some sort of ceremony that is already in the works or is being planned.

7:A card of disappointment. Usually indicates a partner or other person failing to keep their promises. If this card comes up when dealing with some sort of plan, expect that the other person will back out.

6:Warning card. Someone may try to take advantage of the querent. Also. the querent is being too generous to somebody and not getting anything in return. They are being used.

5:Indecisiveness: The querent's inability to make up his/her mind on a subject. A tendency to make and break plans with others.

4:The bachelor or old maid card. This card represent someone who is too fussy in their selection of a partner. Someone who, by their picky nature, is destined to remain alone.

3:An unwise decision, made in haste and without proper background information.

2:Success, often beyond the querent's expectations. If bad cards surround. there may be delays in reaching the goal.

CLUBS

Ace: Indicates wealth, fame...having many friends or acquaintances. Feeling well known and being able to receive certain perks due to good looks or social status.

King: Represents a very good friend. A lifelong companion, someone who can be trusted and counted on during times of need and sorrow.

Queen:Represents a wife or girlfriend in long term relationship for a man. For a woman, represents a sister or good friend, someone who shares a lot of knowledge about the querent.

Jack:Represents a good friend, one who uses a lot of flattery, but only to make the other person feel better. Someone who is good at cheering the querent up.

10:A card of happiness and good fortune. Can also represent a long and fun-filled journey.

9:Trouble: Represents arguments with good friends. A loss of a relationship, a dispute that will remain unresolved.

8:A sense of desperation. An urgent need for money.

7:A card of good luck, if other favorable cards are around. Success if there is not interference from the opposite sex.

6:A partnership card. Success based on mutual goals and friendship.

5:A marriage card, or the beginning of a long standing alliance.

4:A danger card, showing misfortune or failure. Supposed friends getting in the way, or turning against the querent.

3:A sign of a second marriage or even a third. Or an engagement with someone, then a marriage with another, after a friendly separation.

2:Bad luck. Being let down by those around. Opposition from friends and family. Do not count on others.

DIAMONDS

Ace: an important message. A letter or package/gift arriving, the contents of which are very important.

King: A bitter rival, a dangerous competitor, for women it can mean an abusive man or a deceitful lover.

Queen: A flirtatious woman, one who will interfere in plans. Gossipy, very attractive to males..able to get away with things and interfere in situations.

Jack: A bringer of bad news. A selfish person. Not dangerous to male querents, but problems for a female one.

10:Money. Money being the driving force of a journey or partnership. Greed.

9:Adventure: A move in the hopes of advancement.

8:Country life, travel and marriage late in life. The querent's life is too hectic at the moment, a need to settle down and get away but being unable to do so at the present time.

7:Bad luck on an enterprise or idea. A man who is unreliable, a gambler or drinker.

6:An early marriage, but an unhappy one. and one not destined to last. A second marriage would also be unhappy.

5:Prosperity, long enduring friendship. Pride in family. Success with children.

4:Quarrels: Forgotten or neglected friends and family. Situations that have been brewing and now come to a head.

3:A card of disputes and quarrels. Lawsuits, legal actions. A sign of separation or divorce.

2:A serious love affair, resulting in a marriage or interfering with one depending on surrounding cards.

SPADES

Ace: Bad news, loss of someone close, possible death to someone near, or an illness, miscarriage, etc.

King: A man who will cause problems in marriage or relationships. One who will get in the middle, divide and conquer and then destroy.

Queen: A cruel woman, one who interferes. For women, a betrayal by a good friend. For men, a woman who will use them for their own gain.

Jack: A person who hangs around and gets in the way. Not a bad person, but a lazy person. One who will get in the way of progress. Takes and takes, but does not give back anything.

10:A very unlucky card. If near a good card, it can cancel it out. If found with bad cards, makes them twice as bad.

9:The worst card of all: Illness, loss of money, or misery. Even among the best of cards. Defeat, lack of success:

8:False friends, traitors, someone who will betray. Most of the trouble can be avoided if caught early on. Examine all relationships closely.

7:Sorrow and quarrels. Avoid arguments with friends. Let them "win" for now.

6:Much planning but little result. Hard work, without much profit. Discouragements.

5:Success in business or love, after much time and hard work.

4:Minor misfortune: A short illness, a temporary setback.

3:Unhappiness: Misfortune in love or marriage. A loss of pride and hope. Do not dwell, move on in life.

2:A complete and forced change. Sudden change of location, relationship or a death. Bound to make a big difference in the coming months.

GENERALLY:

HEARTS: Emotional, symbols of pain and suffering.

CLUBS: Friends, relationships.

DIAMONDS: Difficulties, money problems.

SPADES: Warnings.

http://www.psgrafx.com/tarotweb/alternatewaysplayingcards.htm

Goddess Rhiannon

January 30th, 2005, 07:29 PM

Here is my code of ethics for this assignment. I am sure by now...most of these had been said...but what cha gonna do

1. All readings will be confidential unless the client wishes them to be otherwise.
2. I will be objective and not read cards when I am ill or have emotional baggage.
3. I will educate those who do not fully understand the meanings of the cards...via books .
4. I will treat others with respect and kindness.
5. I will not guess...if I am unsure of something.
6. I will use tarot as a gift and not as a tool to scam others out of their money.

part 2

How I Use the Tarot

He deals the cards as a meditation
And those he plays never suspect
He doesn't play for the money he wins
He doesn't play for respect

He deals the cards to find the answer
The sacred geometry of chance
The hidden law of a probable outcome
The numbers lead a dance

-- Sting, from "Shape of My Heart"

There are many, many different ways to use tarot cards. In the popular imagination, they are primarily associated with fortune-telling, a rather vague term that is not actually very well suited to what goes on in a "reading" with an experienced tarot reader. The tarot imagery, however, is open-ended. It invites a variety of approaches. My use of tarot cards falls into three very broad categories: study, meditation, and divination.
Study

On a very basic level, I enjoy studying the cards. I enjoy reading what others have done with them, what interpretations they place on them, and what significance they attach to them. I enjoy learning the story of the history of the cards and the various speculative theories regarding their origins. Beyond the books, though, I study the cards themselves. This is perhaps a form of art appreciation, but with an interesting twist, because the images on tarot cards have a certain symbolic or mythic quality to them. They have been described as archetypal. So studying the cards themselves leads to interesting insights on the nature of the human psyche. What do these images suggest to me? What did they suggest to the artist? Do they transcend culture? The major arcana cards, viewed sequentially, seem to suggest a story to many people who study them. Were the cards invented to depict such a story, or is it our mind, thirsting for order in chaos, that weaves a tale into which the images fit? If the latter, is this not what we do to make sense of the events of life as well?

It is also fascinating to see how different artists have reinterpretated the tarot themes. It is a bit like seeing a hundred different depictions of the nativity. But with the tarot, there are so many different conceptions that link the cards with each other and with various mystical and philosophical systems, that the possibilities are truly vast. It is a fascinating mental exercise in understanding how the general and the particular interact, and how human creativity makes variations on a theme without entirely losing the common thread.

All this amounts to a lively exercise that draws on the analytical, esthetic, psychological, and imaginative faculties of the mind. One of the reasons I find this valuable is that I tend to compartmentalize these different faculties, to the detriment of several of them. Studying tarot engages all of them in a mutually constructive way. That's valuable practice.
Meditation

To the extent that the tarot images depict subjects of psychological or spiritual importance, they can be used effectively as a focus for meditation. It is important in this context to distinguish between what might be called the "eastern" meaning of meditation, clearing the mind of thoughts and feelings as preparation to receiving enlightenment, and the "western" meaning, which is a sort of directed daydream. This latter is also called visualization. The idea is to focus on a particular image or scene until one becomes quite absorbed and feels a sense of immediacy and participation with the image. This process tends to weaken one's conscious, matter-of-fact connection with the physical environment, without entirely dissolving it. The imagination (or perhaps the subconscious mind) is then less inhibited, and offers up ideas that, under more ordinary circumstances, might be "censored" by the mind before we even become aware of them.

What does the "subconscious imagination" have to offer? Well, sometimes, it has good suggestions and valuable insights! But even when it seems to miss the mark, I benefit simply from the process of getting acquainted with it and appreciating its special qualities. This is an avenue to self-knowledge that parallels and complements direct analytical introspection.

The meditative experience also seems to be restorative. Even when the content of the meditation is uncomfortable, I tend to come away refreshed and centered, analogous to the way the body feels after stretching exercises or massage.
Divination

What is divination? The image that comes to mind is perhaps that of a shaman casting sticks on the ground and taking their arrangement as an omen of things to come. There is a seduction in the possibility of being able to see into the future in some way that is less ambiguous than our usual style of speculating and extrapolating. I think that is a false seduction; I don't believe the future is ever revealed to us in that way--certainly not by drawing pieces of cardboard from a deck! Nevertheless, I think divination does something valuable, even if it is not quite the same thing some people have hoped it can do.

When you study a "random" pattern--one you did not create and could not have anticipated--and try to read its meaning, you are forced to let go of some of your preconceptions and predilections. Preconceptions and linear thinking are excellent tools for testing and pruning ideas, but they are not very good for obtaining brand new ideas. To get new ideas, you need to practice a nonjudgmental openness, and let the unexpected come in. One way to do this is to arrange to have new ideas "delivered" to you randomly by, for example, a shuffled deck of cards. If one develops a clear understanding of the message of each tarot card in advance, then pulling one from a shuffled deck amounts to an invitation to consider that message in the context of the question you are exploring. Will that message always be the best possible message for you? No, of course not. You go back to "rational" thinking to evaluate the message and decide whether to act on it. But even if it is not the best possible message, it is likely to be valuable, if for no other reason than the fact that it is something new to consider.

The Nobel laureate chemist Linus Pauling was once asked how he came up with so many great ideas. His reply was that he came up with an enormous number of ideas--poor, mediocre, interesting, good, and great. With so many ideas to choose from, some were bound to be great. Tarot divination is a very good generator of ideas, some of which are bound to pan out into an important insight.

On a more mystical level, "divination" implies etymologically that one is reading the Mind of God. By surrendering your preconceptions and leaving the question in the hands of chance, you can find yourself drawn into a state of mind that appreciates your own insignificance and incompleteness. After some experience using the cards for divination, I find I tend to look past my own immediate focus and catch a sense of the larger ebb and flow of life. The cards bring forth images of gain and loss, power and impotence, joy and sorrow, round and round, over and over again. Instead of being swept up and down by each ripple, you can come to feel still and calm in the midst of the motion.
The Real Tarot

In practice, these three uses often blend together and fuse. I like that. The bottom line is that the cards are a fascinating and rewarding way to take a little time out of the day and focus on deeper matters. For me, it is not about "fortune telling", superstition, or being anti-rational. It is about deliberating using my esthetic, intellectual, and contemplative faculties to view the patterns of life holistically, intuitively, and spiritually. The goal is improved self-knowledge and a deeper perspective.

http://www.telp.com/uses.htm