We have, in a sense, already met the four Aces in the Magician card. They are the tools that he uses to manifest his will in the world. Aces really are amazing. They are like seeds, and like all seeds they are more than just potential. They actually hold within them all that is possible from that particular seed. In the Ace of Wands is all will and passion and inspiration that can exist. In the Ace of Cups, all emotions and all manner of relationships. In the Ace of Swords, all thoughts, all ways of thinking, all systems, all truths. In the Ace of Pentacles, all abundance and prosperity of the physical world. Aces are often illustrated with a disembodied hand holding the

In the beginning of tarot's existence, the Magician’s role was primarily that of a stage magician or even juggler. This, by extension, was interpreted as a con man or someone who tries to trick you. Like the Fool, the Magician was not the noble or admirable character it is today. This card was a warning to beware of being taken for a ride. Today, however, that interpretation, like the historical meaning for the Fool, is reserved for the reversed or ill-dignified position. Instead, we focus on the Magician’s skill, his ability to make effective use of all the resources at his disposal, to create something out of seemingly nothing. The Magician is usually shown with a table. On the

The beginning of a new year always makes me think about, well, new beginnings. And what says “beginning” more than the Fool? So, what we’re going to do is start this fresh, shiny new year by looking at the Fool. Then we’ll look at the other Majors in order, along with their corresponding Minors. That is, we’ll look at the Magician, then all the Aces; the High Priestess followed by the 2s, etc. If something else catches our attention along the way, well, we’ll just follow our fancy and trust the Universe. Much like our friend, the Fool. Currently, we see the Fool as something of a hero. Indeed, we often look at the Major Arcana as a journey that the Fool takes, likening him

At some point, all tarot readers ask themselves questions about how the tarot works, where does the information come from, and what exactly goes on duringa reading. In his book, The Thoth Companion, Michael Osiris Snuffin suggests that a reading centers on communicating with higher powers, and he provides some ways to strengthen the bond to facilitate that communication. Michael Osiris Snuffin explains his technique: Before you start a tarot reading, it is wise to establish a connection with the higher powers with which you will be communicating. This may be accomplished in a number of ways. The easiest method is to appeal to your Higher Self for guidance. Close your eyes, clear