15 The Devil

The Devil tarot card, numbered  XV (15) in the Major Arcana, is a complex and often misunderstood card. It typically depicts a horned, satyr-like figure (often resembling Baphomet) with a man and woman chained below him, symbolizing entrapment, addiction, or temptation.  

Meanings in a Reading:

Temptation & Addiction– Being bound by unhealthy habits, toxic relationships, or materialism.  

Illusion of Control– Feeling trapped in a situation, but the chains are often loose, meaning escape is possible.  

Shadow Self– Facing fears, desires, or obsessions that may be controlling you.  

Materialism & Excess– Overindulgence in physical pleasures, money, or power.   

*Connections & Symbolism* 

Element: Earth (Capricorn) – Represents ambition, material focus, and discipline.  

Astrological Association: Capricorn – A sign linked to ambition but also stubbornness and attachment to structure.  

Numerology: (15 = 1+5 = 6) Links to The Lovers (VI), showing a contrast between love and obsession, choice and entrapment. 

 

Advice When the Devil Appears:

Be Honest With Yourself– Acknowledge any unhealthy attachments or behaviors.  

'You Have the Power to Break Free'. The chains traditionally used in the image are often loose, meaning the situation isn’t as hopeless as it seems. Be Mindful of Material Desires. Avoid letting money, power, or lust dictate your choices.  

14 Temperance

The Temperance tarot card is the 14th card in the Major Arcana (XIV) and is associated with themes of balance, harmony, moderation, and patience. Here's an overview:

Imagery and Symbolism (traditional)

• Angel Figure: A winged angel, often interpreted as Archangel Michael or Gabriel, is typically depicted. The figure represents divine guidance and balance.
• Two Cups: The angel pours liquid between two cups, symbolizing the blending or integration of opposites (e.g., emotions and logic, spiritual and physical).
• One Foot in Water, One on Land: This posture represents balance between the subconscious (water) and the conscious (land) realms.
• Triangle on the Robe: The triangle within a square on the angel's chest symbolizes the harmony of spirit (triangle) within the material world (square).
• Path and Mountains: In the background, a path leads to distant mountains and a glowing crown, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and higher aspirations.
• Iris Flowers: Sometimes seen nearby, they represent communication and clarity.

Imagery and Symbolism

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Key Meanings

• Balance and Moderation: A reminder to practice self-restraint and avoid extremes.
• Patience and Timing: Encourages trusting the process and allowing things to unfold naturally.
• Blending and Harmony: Suggests bringing different aspects of life, people, or ideas into harmony.
• Healing and Peace: Reflects inner peace, emotional healing, and a calm, balanced state of being.

In a Reading

• Love: Promotes balanced and harmonious relationships or reconciliation.
• Career: Encourages teamwork and careful decision-making.
• Health: Suggests focusing on moderation for physical and emotional well-being.
• Spiritual: Indicates alignment with higher purpose and inner peace.

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Temperance is a card of tranquility, wisdom, and mindful action. It encourages finding equilibrium and embracing the middle path in all aspects of life.

Incorporating Tarot in Your Everyday Life

The zodiac and tarot are two distinct systems that are often used in divination and astrology. While they have separate origins and symbolism, there are connections and associations between the two that can be explored. Here's what you need to know about the zodiac in relation to tarot:

1. Correspondences: In tarot, each card is associated with specific astrological correspondences, including zodiac signs. Major Arcana cards often represent archetypal energies and can be linked to astrological signs based on their symbolism. For example, The Emperor card is associated with Aries, The Chariot with Cancer, and Justice with Libra.

2. Elemental Associations: Both the zodiac signs and the tarot are often linked to the four classical elements: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water. Each zodiac sign is associated with a specific element, and the tarot suits (Wands, Pentacles, Swords, and Cups) are also connected to these elements. This connection allows for a deeper understanding of the energies present in readings.

3. Timing and Astrological Readings: Astrology and tarot can be combined to provide more detailed insights. Some tarot spreads incorporate astrological placements, such as using cards to represent the current planetary positions or specific zodiac signs. This can enhance the interpretation and provide a broader perspective on the influences at play.

4. Personal Birth Cards: Some tarot practitioners believe that your birth date can be used to determine a "personal birth card." This card is often derived by assigning a specific tarot card to each birth date in the calendar year. For instance, if you were born on March 21, your personal birth card might be The World (corresponding to the 21st card in the Major Arcana).

5. Tarot and Astrological Houses: Tarot can also be associated with astrological houses, which represent different areas of life. The houses, such as the First House (self), Seventh House (relationships), and Tenth House (career), can be linked to specific tarot cards or used as a framework for divinatory readings, providing insights into different aspects of a person's life.

It's important to note that the connections between tarot and the zodiac are not universally agreed upon. Different tarot traditions may have their own correspondences and interpretations. Ultimately, the interpretation and use of these systems together can vary based on personal beliefs and practices.

Creativity-Focused Affirmations for the New Year

HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

Hope you're staying healthy, happy and positive!

Here are creativity-focused affirmations and mantras that align with your tarot reading and solstice ritual:

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Affirmations for Releasing Creative Blocks

• "I release fear and self-doubt to make space for inspired creation."
• "Letting go of perfection frees my true creative spirit."
• "From endings, my imagination finds new beginnings."
• "I trust my creative process, even in times of uncertainty."

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Affirmations for Nurturing Creative Growth

• "My creativity flows freely and abundantly."
• "I plant seeds of inspiration and nurture them with curiosity and joy."
• "Every day, I grow more confident in my creative abilities."
• "My art is an authentic expression of my inner light."
• "Through transformation, my creativity finds new forms and possibilities."

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Mantras for Creative Energy

• “From the darkness, I create beauty and meaning.”
• “I am a vessel for divine inspiration, transforming ideas into art.”
• “The spark of creativity within me burns brighter every day.”
• “I honor the cycles of rest and creation, trusting each phase of my journey.”

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Daily Creativity Affirmations for the Year Ahead

• "I allow my creativity to grow with ease and playfulness."
• "Inspiration surrounds me; I see it in every moment."
• "I have the courage to explore new ideas and share my unique voice."
• "My art is a reflection of my soul’s evolution."

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