Symbols
What's in a name? A rose by any other name, is truly still a rose. But a symbol of a rose is always the same. Or is it? Perhaps to one person, a rose symbolizes love and romance, while another loss and betrayal.
There are many books available now for dream and symbol interpretation. They will tell you what flying, for example, means if you dream it. Snakes mean this or that. But which book to buy? Which to trust?
In my opinion, none. A symbol means different things to different people. The American flag means freedom and hope for many, nothing to some, and is a focal point of anger for others. The meaning of symbols change with the times, and with the culture.
Perception is everything. Your viewpoint may appear wrong, but from your eyes, it is in fact quite correct. The task for any good Tarot reader is to see with many eyes. See through your eyes, the cards eyes, the people around you. Move your perception around. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you will find.
Why does the student of Tarot consider such philosophical ramblings? Because the Tarot is not magic. There is no unseen hand guiding the cards. And perhaps more shocking to most readers, it does not fortell the future.
What it does is allow your inner mind to speak to your outer mind. Like a waking dream, the symbols of the Tarot cards you draw will catch your eye, depending on what is going on in your life at the moment. A gifted reader will be able to attune their interpretation of the symbols drawn from the deck to suit your mindset.
Don't expect from the Tarot the winning lottery numbers for next week, or the answer of will you find true love. What you will find is why you feel the need to win the lottery, or what is missing in your life that needs a love to fill. It is a guide to help show you where you are on your own personal fool's journey. Are you the hermit today? Or perhaps the rider of the chariot. Are you seeking transformation, or to share wisdom with others through teaching.
And in a way, by showing you what your inner mind desires, your higher self wishes, the Tarot does predict the future... should you choose to take it to heart.
Truth is often a paradox.
All material, images and words, Copyright © 1995-2000, Robin L. Duckett unless otherwise specified.