The Devil and The Choice We Make ~ Tarot for 29 Jan 2017

The Devil is such an interesting card to consider. Its depiction is as varied as there are decks. The Devil denotes ego potential, primal nature, and materialism. In this version from the Robin Wood tarot we see chains binding an open chest with treasure spilling forth. A young woman, her teeth bared stands in attack position, protecting the treasure while a young man reaches for an open window above. The chains suggest self-imposed imprisonment, while the defense of the treasure indicates greed. Either way the card signifies tension and choice.

The numerology of the card is 6 and as a card from the Major Arcana, I’m going to use it as a significator and not reduce it any further for the total numerology. Plus there’s a pattern which I’ll get into later.

The Ace of Cups signifies abundance and love. Joy is overflowing in this card of compassion and emotional presence. A jewel-like heart appears on the silver chalice, a mermaid holding it in place. Water overflows the cup’s edge, five streams replenishing the earth, manifesting fertility and abundance. Lotus blossoms are nourished by the cup’s loving intention, rays of the sun reflecting in all directions in complete brilliance. Its numerology is 1 or new beginnings.

The 5 of Swords depicts three young men at water’s edge, swords pointed into the ground, One of the young men is laughing as he takes three swords from the group, their backs turned away from him. The wind blows his hair as well as the dark clouds of illusion, blue sky along with clarity returning. With the presence of The Devil as significator I view this card as friends trusting someone without any integrity. He’s pleased with himself as he takes what doesn’t belong to him. Its numerology is five or change.

As with the numerology of The Devil, the numerology of the Ace of Cups and the 5 of Swords results in six or the Holy Spirit within. When we incarnate into form we do so while making a choice. Do we approach life in service to self or in service to others? The Devil illustrates the choice between Spirit and form, between freedom and restriction with the Ace of Cups and the 5 of Swords representing that choice. The choice to live in service to self tends to result in a person who thinks only of himself and how he can manipulate others to his advantage. Living in service to others allows us to express overflowing love and joy depicted by the Ace of Cups.

The entire world is making the same choice as many are now threatened by a small minded man/devil who chooses reaction over thoughtfulness and truth. We can emulate his way of being and watch as the world and everyone in it implode. Or we can choose love.

I know what I’m choosing.

Blessings to all!