Are you wondering sbout a previous "FBI" warning, allow me to explain & FREE TAROT READINGS!
Last edited Sat Sep 23, 2017, 07:28 PM - Edit history (3)
The first Opening Post I presented here read This is "intellectual property" according to FBI guidlines. Shall we begin with 17? because I suffered identity theft and wanted to document sections of a book I am still writing, although I have submitted it to a publisher. Cartomancy (divination) meanings were inspired and in some cases reproduced from the works of James Rioux, long ago. $1,000 was stolen from my bank account by a hacker and I thought the same hacker might attempt to publish my book. If you are concerned about your future, I am willing to provide a free Tarot reading in this public forum. Personally, I doubt that cards selected at random can foretell the future; but I have read Tarot cards for years and they seem to show a persons past and mental state, in many cases. At the very least, the cards induce people to reevaluate their lives and relationships. I do not seek any personal information on people who want their cards read. I read Tarot as a hobby and there is no charge for my readings.
Here is the original version, along with the card image: BOTH VERSIONS ARE CONSIDERED "INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY BY THE F.B.I. and Interpol.
Whenever all hope seems lost, it will reappear to prove that you have really lost nothing, except perhaps your sight of the path to enlightenment. And in the absence of that sight, the Star will light your way. Its light is not a blinding flash like the lightning bolt of the Tower, but a soft radiating glow that warms and comforts, rather than burning and destroying. You must remember that both of these energies ultimately come from the same place in the sky - from Heaven. After the light of the Tower destroys the false path you were following, the kinder and gentler light of the Star will lead you back to the right path.
In terms of symbolism this card is similar to Temperance; there is a figure by a pool with two cups. But while the contents of the Cups were mixed with each other in Temperance, here they are mixed with the waters of the eternal spirit of the Divine. When you cannot help yourself, the Star tells you to look to the heavens for guidance. Or, more appropriately, look to the spark of divinity that lies within yourself that you could not see or acknowledge before. Each of us has a little piece of the Star deep inside, waiting to cast its light into the world to light the way. This is what Crowley meant when he affirmed that "every man and every woman is a star."
The Star is a card of faith, both in your own power, and in powers greater than your own. When the Tower sweeps away all the negativity in your life, you once again need something to fill the void, and faith is a good place to start. What exactly is faith? It could be said that faith is a conscious belief in an unconscious experience, of which we may not be directly aware, but of which we can still feel the effects. This definition fits both belief in a deity and belief in your own abilities. Having faith in any power will allow that power to manifest in your life. Believing that something will happen is as sure a way as any to make it happen.
There is a lot of meditative imagery on almost all renditions of the Star, though the most interesting symbol on the Rider-Waite version of the card is the pool of water at the center of the scene. On some decks the naked woman is standing in the pool, but in the Rider-Waite version she kneels beside it. Notice that her right foot rests on the water but does not break the surface. Once faith is placed in its power, the pool of the subconscious becomes able to support the conscious mind. The miraculous ability to walk on water is symbolically translated here into the ability to trust in another power, whether in the heavens or in yourself. Once that trust is achieved, anything is possible.
There are few cards more positive than the Star, because when it appears in your life it is nothing less than a beacon of hope and inspiration. In times of darkness it shows that there is a way out, and tells you not to worry, for illumination and freedom are at hand. All you need is something in which to place your faith. So trust in yourself, and in whatever powers you believe control the universe, to help you through difficult times. Let the infinite energy of the Star warm you and rejuvenate your soul, to provide the strength and the clarity of purpose you need to continue on your journey.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that the Star is never a card that shows the final solution to any problem. It simply shows the hope and faith to get to wherever you're going; without hope we can accomplish nothing, but hope is only a beginning. Now that you have been inspired, you still have much work to do in order to bring your vision into manifestation. You must combine the solidity of material existence with the waters of your emotions and of your spirit. This is a time when miracles can happen, so kick off your shoes and wade into the pool, confident that the water will support you until you reach the other side.
This page was made by James Rioux (The Black Shadow), bshadow@nbnet.nb.ca.
Copyright 2000 James Rioux.
This page copyright Patrick Lancaster 5/15/02 (aka Jeffersons Ghost)
17 – THE STAR
Egyptian art portrays goddess of the sky Nuit, as a nude woman, with her star covered body, arching across the sky. Perception of Divinity is irrelevant, after feelings helplessness develop. The Star suggests seeking guidance from higher powers. If faith abandons you, The Star rises to illuminate a fresh perspective. Occasionally darkness even settles on a path to enlightenment. In the absence of clear vision, this card renews the view, with a sparkling radiance, to provide warmth and consolation. No matter how bleak a situation seems, divine intellect flickers within you, waiting to shine. Inner light is a guide to happiness, after you embrace the symbolism vividly conveyed by imagery. Glistening with renewal and confidence, The Star epitomizes innate belief in abstract concepts, during desperate situations. Appearance of this card indicates a powerful spiritual awakening, especially when it emerges with the Eight of Wands and The Moon, in a Tarot reading.
An idealistic outlook, in imagery, shows The Star shares energy with Aquarius, a faithful visionary, who could ask this abstract question: What is the definition faith? Faith is an abiding belief in an intangible concept, which encompasses not only belief in a deity, but also confidence in personal ability or higher self. Faith in any force, allows the power to influence life. Believing an event will transpire is the surest way to cause it to occur. The same thing happens, if fear governs existence. Fear is the opposite of faith. Becoming afraid an event will take place causes the fear to become reality. Appearance of this card presents concepts, which allow you to transform nagging fears into a positive force.
Imagery on The Star shows a woman placing her foot upon water. The implication is she intends to walk on water, symbolizing faith, needed in life. Without faith, hope soon disappears, allowing problems to grow into hideous dragons, which threaten to consume us, as we cower in fear. Eight is prominent in this image. The two urns she pours from symbolize “waters of life” and “gifts of the spirit” according to A. E. Waite, who co-designed most trump cards. When this card appears, it gives gifts to the spirit and flows with emotional healing. No longer restricted to dismal realms of distrust and dread, you can emerge into the guiding light from The Star, with faith revived, as hope is renewed, according to James Rioux (The Black Shadow), bshadow@nbnet.nb.ca.Copyright 2000 James Rioux.http://www.ata-tarot.com/resource/cards/maj17.html.
Aleister Crowley, designer the Book of Thoth Tarot, wrote, "Every man or woman is a star." Venus, the Morning Star, joins with seven eight-pointed stars, in imagery. In numerology, eight epitomizes attainment. Smith adopted a Tarot de Marseille image, with obvious changes. Color symbolism offers blue sky with white stars, as a nude woman dominates imagery. Followers of Yamaya, in Santeria, wear seven white beads strung with seven blue beads. Yamaya is a principal deity, who rules water, which is feminine. Pamela Colman Smith spent childhood in Kingstown, Jamaica, where beliefs like Santeria and Voodoo were imported with West African slaves, who pretended to sanctify Christian icons, while worshiping ancient African deities.
There is a great deal of meditative imagery on the card, because it symbolizes ability to trust in a higher power. No matter what your beliefs are, once you have faith, anything is possible. There are few cards in Tarot more positive than The Star. It is nothing less than a beacon of inspiration. In times of darkness, it beckons you not to resign, because illumination and wisdom are at hand. Gandhi said it best, “My faith is brightest in the midst of impenetrable darkness.” This card plants the kernels of truth, hope and faith: All you need to do is allow those elements to flourish. The soft, nurturing light of The Star helps these seeds grow; but remember - you are the gardener.
Cultivate beliefs in personal ability and whatever force you feel controls the universe. Allow faith to light your way through difficult times. Let the boundless energy of The Star revitalize your spirit, providing strength or clarity of purpose to resume your quest. Keep in mind, The Star rarely shows a final resolution of issues: However, as you unravel problems of life, it illuminates journeys. If you have a dream for the future, redouble faith, after this card appears. If you lack a dream, inspiration will be forthcoming. There will still be problems to overcome before desires become reality. It may seem like only a miracle can make dreams come true; and this card shows miracles will happen!
As Coyote 102.5 FM, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, plays Pink Floyd lyrics saying, " IHAVE SOMETHING LEFT TO SAY" am I allowed to post music in this forum. Can I post a link to a song here? Forum managers have only minutes to decide!
= new reply since forum marked as read
Evolved from the ancient Greek word mago meaning great, the Persian title magoi, describes mystical teachers, wise men and astrologers. Early Bibles in Latin elevate three magi to king status. From Latin, magi, forms the basis in English, for magician. In Tarot, The Magician pulses with creativity and surges forth as an initiator, which bears a one. His appearance introduces the dynamic power of your will. An ability to materialize objects from thin air suggests he holds either Divine power or the wand of a charlatan. Like the Biblical magi, The Magician follows higher powers, which direct his force outwardly as theory, practice and results. Early decks echo with confusing evolution of The Magician, portraying him as a crafty entertainer. Occultist Eliphas Levi noted that this archaic juggler hid the shape of infinity within folds of his floppy hat. Further affecting modern imagery by describing arm positions, Levi gives voice to The Magician: “Above, immensity: Below, immensity still! Immensity equals immensity” Epitomizing Yang, he speaks with confidence and overt mental skill.
The Magician yields potent cerebral impact in a spread because it shares energy with the mental planet Mercury. His powers influence both logical and emotional levels of the human mind. The portrayal of The Magician introduces the symbol of infinity to designate infinite power. Although, this power comes from outside his body, it is perpetually under control. By manipulating those basic elements of life, he shows us that from the mundane, magnificence will often emerge. If The Magician remembers that willpower and resolve are at his command, he will never become truly powerless. He can be temporarily subdued if he loses material possessions or other earthly symbols of power but his confidence is an invincible force.
The color scheme on this card influenced many other decks. These colors honor the Santeria deity Shango, a powerful magician commanding lightning and fire. Exposure to Caribbean beliefs during childhood in Kingston influenced Pamela Smith, who chose these colors. Being a port, many Caribbean religions thrive in Kingston. Implying a balance of positive and negative, he wears white symbolizing purity and red showing desire. This color scheme, which recurs throughout Tarot, symbolically starts with this card and suggests positive and negative traits merging. In the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, Merlin the Magician served his king in a positive way, while employing forces of evil. Like Merlin, The Magician unifies positive and negative, refusing to waste effort striving be all-good. He creates and destroys. His power is that he realizes what must occur and understands the reasons for all his actions. Then he does what is required. The appearance of The Magician in a spread encourages you to employ his approach to your life and empowers you with courage and decisiveness. The beauty of decisiveness is that when those who possess this trait make a poor choice, they have the ability to change their decision to create a more favorable outcome. If this card emerges in a reading, it shows you have both the desire and ability to create new choices.
Pablo Picasso said, “Every act of creation is first an act of destruction.” Although creative and destructive power has always been present, this card offers a wand of confidence needed to transform energy into positive force. Decide what you want to accomplish and then materialize excellence. With your new abilities of transformation, change wishes into reality, visions into realizations and ambitions into actions. If a past setback prevents you from moving on, you can make it disappear, as easily as The Magician causes rabbits to vanish into his top hat. All limitations are self-imposed. External expressions of this power are abundant and diverse. This card might imply you are a conduit for higher power but the most common effect of The Magician is confidence. Awareness that personal action dictates individual destiny inspires true confidence. Go forward by setting your mind to whatever goal you desire and work the magic of un-swerving confidence, as the future falls into place at your command. Ultimately, the message of The Magician is straightforward: Life is under your control! Life is moving forward! Life is what you create!
The High Priestess is perhaps the most difficult card in Tarot to fathom. Embracing a power veiled in mystery, the card bears a broad scope of interpretations in readings. She communicates directly from the subconscious plane through intuition, as an expression of the, intrinsic mysterious nature of human existence. She balances power brandished by The Magician. Her powers are as divine and mystical as those wielded by that card of external influence; but the nucleus of her energy is different. While The Magician directs power outward, The Priestess suggests using internal force to achieve a meaningful effect on the psyche. Her transformations are not as dramatic as those that The Magician employs but they are usually more powerful. The Magician introduced red and white, the main colors of Tarot; however, this card symbolically predicts other hues in the deck. Offering unlimited potential of Yin, she provides symmetry necessary for The Magician to serve as Yang of creation. This essential balance of Yin and Yang controls the entire universe.
Grasping the equilibrium between potential and creation offers a thread to unravel the secrecy veiled within the card. The High Priestess not only offers equality of force, she is the scale. Her delicate symmetry yields true power. This card parts the veil into occult understanding and the key to grasping these secrets is already deep within your subconscious. The High Priestess shows that dreams may now become very significant. Spiritually profound, the card signifies a potent force as subtle as the moon slipping behind a cloud. Missing influence of this card is easy, unless you open your mind and heart. The High Priestess heralds the emergence of psychic ability when it appears with The Moon in a spread. The card shares astrological power with the Moon, which ties closely into dreams, motherhood and other feminine influences.
This card offers several striking symbols. First, the lunar image of the subconscious sits at her feet, like a pet. The symbolism here is apparent. Less obvious are the cryptic characters “B” and “J” which mark the two pillars flanking The Priestess. Most Tarot researchers agree that this is a Biblical reference to the two pillars honoring Jachin and Boaz in the Temple of King Solomon. Named for his ancestors, they were also black and white. Jachin translates into “He establishes” and Boaz means, “In Him there is strength.” Pillars depicted on the card show a veil strung between them. Behind this veil lurk realms of the subconscious. She sits before this partition as the moderator to universal wisdom. Indications of duality are highly visible, but a trilogy also emerges since her image sits between two columns. Her skirts flow into headwaters of a subtle river running through the Major Arcana. Skirt colors suggest the feminine Yemaya, a mystical Santeria deity honored by the white and blue of her realm the sea. If The High Priestess appears in a spread, it suggests an unseen negative side of the personality emerging. Negative does not necessarily imply evil; it simply represents the opposite of positive. Many remain unaware of this less expressive more feminine side of the psyche. If you can accept this shadow within, subconscious powers will emerge. Since this is the more passive side of your make-up, this card may indicate a need to be passive in a situation. Inaction is often as effective as action in achieving goals.
The High Priestess portrays the ideal woman – a mistress of the inner voice. Like the Lady of the Lake in the legends of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, she surfaces with a mystical gift and may signal intuition is sending you a message. The subconscious offers messages veiled in symbolism and to hear the inner whispers we must remain alert. If an important decision is at hand when this card appears, it is likely signaling that your subconscious may reveal a path in upcoming days. By patiently waiting and remaining receptive to messages from within, you soon hear subtle whispers of the mind. Open your heart, as the awesome power of this card enriches and transforms you on an internal level. She teaches that all knowledge exists beyond the conscious veil, at a deeper level of the psyche. Her message emerges from two words by Linnaeus, a scientist and philosopher, who said, “Know thyself.”
Who wants to see "the other half of my butterfly tattoo?"