3 Card Tarot Reading

The Emperor Tarot Card Meaning

The Emperor is the counterpart of the Empress, but where the Empress is care free in her abundance, the Emperor is almost strict with his own form of stability and can symbolize many different things depending on the context in which he represents himself. 

If you receive this card during a general reading, then the Emperor is going to provide you with a solid, continual energy to benefit your life. He does not leave a lot of room for excess change or random behavior. The Emperor is pragmatic, regal and stately. His energy is full of action and drive, and there is no room for mistakes. This is a card of possession, domination and authority and says that currently in your life you need direction. Often the Emperor will reflect an internal compass, a card that is attempting to show you the way. To be something and to know something is entirely different then being capable of doing something. Embracing the capabilities of the Emperor assists you in understanding this level of authority. Now is a time to trust your own instincts and skills to get a much needed job done. Do not rely on others to complete what you can do yourself. Do not expect that others are going to do as good of a job as you are.

You are in a time of your life that your own limits may be tested and while you are feeling run down or underappreciated you still need to push through. There is no room for error. The Emperor points his glare at you in a reading stating that you also may be pushing others too hard. The message for the card is for you and you alone. You need to be responsible for your actions at this time and reliance on others will likely result in a disaster of some kind.

The depiction of the Emperor on the card is full of metaphorical images that will help you to assist what the role of the Emperor is in your life. He sits in a stone throne that is unyielding but efficient with the Martian ram heads signifying his masculine role with mars. He is forward momentum and drive. How can you focus more on pushing yourself forward? His beard is long, symbolizing his many years full of wisdom. Many comment on his metal shoes. One would ask why he isn’t wearing shoes that are more comfortable. The answer is simple, his shoes are an example of authority, of procedure, they are part of his uniform and that symbol is constant and never changing. You will benefit from adding this level of professionalism in your life.

The Emperor encourages us to focus on the reasoning and critically thinking mind. What is feasible and is reasonable is the world that the Emperor lives in. When you receive this card in a reading, the Emperor commands that you get rid of all form of fantasy and fill your head with the facts. Handle your affairs in a systematic way and do not encourage room for error. Anything that you can do to be responsible for the standing in your life is imperative now. The effort you put in at this time will be greatly rewarded.

The Emperor in Love

In love, the Emperor is symbolic of monogamy, of longevity and consistency. When this card appears in your love spread you can count on being blessed with something stable and dependable coming your way. If you are already in a relationship and you are having problems, the Emperor says that you can depend on the situation to improve and to remain stable at least for the interim. Consider what he has to teach you about being a solid influence in your life and in the lives of others.

This card can be confusing if you are looking for love. For a woman looking for love it will often show an older male coming into her life and instruct her to be open to new possibilities. However, for a male seeking love it tells you that you need to be more forward in your search, be willing to share your feelings, and warns of waiting too long for the right woman. It is likely that you are holding back your feelings to a woman and now is the time to speak up before your opportunity is missed.

The Emperor As Feelings

In terms of feelings, the Emperor is king - he stands proud, a powerful and compassionate figure. If you ask for someone’s feelings and it is connected to strength and emotion, respect and understanding are associated with his feelings. As he speaks, his presence fills the air with authority. Listening to others, he experiences their stories like his own, because in his heart there is understanding. A great deal of emotion can be evoked by the Emperor in those around him. Every place he enters is filled with a special kind of feeling generated by his words that convey understanding, assurance, trust, and love. When the Emperor rises for feelings it can indicate that this person feels that you are traditional but have control over a “love” situation.

The Emperor As Love Reconciliation

In asking if someone will get back with you and pull the Emperor, for love reconciliation, then it shows that the male who is in the situation will make his moves and try to reconcile.

The Emperor in Health

When the Emperor comes up in a reading where health is mentioned, several possibilities present themselves. First, this can be a sign of good health over all, that you are well and will continue to be well. However, if this card comes up reversed regarding health, then you will want to consider the negative effects that being overly routine or constricted is having on your overall health. This could show up in tension headaches or other stress related issues. One can be too authoritarian or too rigid. The Emperor is there to teach you to bring yourself back into balance and to allow the positive influence of stability to come to your aid.

The Emperor in Work and Wealth

The Emperor in business ventures exists to show you the support in your current workplace and to bless you with up and coming possibilities that will add more stability in your life. If you are unsure that you are making the right move in your industry by accepting a promotion, the Emperor says to take the job if it will encourage longevity in the workplace. He also represents a long-term opportunity coming your way financially such as in making money off the sale of a house, inheritance, or cashing in of stocks and bonds. The positive energy in this card is very strong concerning finance and work. The Emperor has worked for what he has and with him in a reading, he brings a deal of luck and fortune through experience and reputation.

The Emperor As An Action/Advice

The Emperor is about making sure that you control what you are doing. Think of yourself withstanding the raging winds and overcoming obstacles no-one else can. The message here is that if we trust in ourselves and open ourselves up to advice, there will never be a difficulty too great for us to overcome. This tarot card is a message to make sure that you have the strength to overcome anything. It is about taking boldness and courage from the emperor, and your journey shall have no bounds.

The Emperor As Yes Or No

The Emperor in a Yes Or No reading draws a duality that many people find difficult to comprehend. In one aspect, a dichotomy of decisions holds weight - and this is the path of 'Yes', or plunge down into darkness of 'No'? Even so, despite all the complexity, a ray of light shines through: despite its formidable appearance, all roads lead to the same place, and ultimately, decision-making depends on courage. Life often comes down to choices, not just for ourselves but also for those around us - so in a Yes Or No reading he is saying follow your heart with bravery and grace. 

The Emperor As A Person

The Emperor as a person is a gentle soul, wise and kind with a vast knowledge. A leader of great strength and ability, the Emperor had a strong sense of justice and fairness that he applied equally to all. His words were measured, succinct, and inspiring towards those in need. Through compassion and understanding, he viewed the world. It was the Emperor's individualism and commitment to rule by consensus rather than decree that made him unique among rulers. 

The Emperor In the Past Position

In my tarot card above, you can see the emperor embodies great power and radiates strength. His throne is elevated above the masses and his word became law. Every day he sits on top of the throne, surveying the land he dominates over with a gaze that would both humble. Such were the days that an emperor held reign in this ancient past; before modern society whittled such grandeur down to hardly anything more than myth.

he Emperor In the Present Position

As he stands in this current position with a heavy burden of responsibility on his shoulders, it is a strange twist of events that brought the emperor to this point in history. Despite his tendency to reign over grandiose kingdoms, he now relies on the wisdom and guidance of the people to guide him. The only way we can write a future worth dreaming about is to embrace our collective history, a future where the emperor's presence is welcomed and revered as it was centuries ago. Even though we may never know how he arrived here or what secrets lie beneath him, this majestic figure remains an inspiration to your life right now, showing perseverance can overcome even the greatest obstacles.

The Emperor In the Future/Outcome Position

Future worlds will be mysterious and wondrous, with the emperor at the center. His actions will resonate throughout generations, reaching out to souls. A day of darkness will never fall on the realm under his command because he will command such immense power. As a result, all will pay homage to him, thanking him for leading them along the righteous path that only emperors can tread. In the future, he will be omnipotent and justice will be swiftly delivered to those who deserve it. In this infinite universe, the emperor in the future will undoubtedly be a blessing for you going forward. It is a sign that you can overcome any obstacle with his help.

The Emperor As Friendship Or Family

I always find this is normally about a male friend is some way, of course, friends become family. In the same way that brothers, daughters, sisters, and mothers bond, so does this friendship (if you draw the emperor). For family, again it can mean a Father figure or someone in that position. It represents someone around you who has that sort of emperor vibe and will reveal the truth.

Reversed Emperor In A Reading

When the Emperor appears in a reading in the reversed position, there is a loss of control possible in your near future. Perhaps being overly structured has taken a toll on your existence and you have begun receiving injuries due to this lack of flowing energy. Consider taking some time off so that you may be able to get through the frustrating phase. Pay attention to paperwork and ensure that you have only trustworthy people around you. With the positive energies in the reversed position, the energies that would usually be of an aid to you can actually be a hindrance. You will likely find that you are being overconfident or rude and not knowing it. Especially in a professional sense – the reversed position does not bode well for work and finance. Do what you can to get your finances on track by setting up a budget that is reasonable and workable. Work hours that are conducive. Overworking, overbooking, and being overextended are often serious issues when the Emperor is reversed.

Love And Romance - Emperor Reversed

When the Emperor reversed is involved, romance can turn. As unflinching rulers float wildly in the air like dandelion seeds, they will become unpredictable like dandelion seeds. If you are fortunate enough to be touched by its presence, you know not to take it for granted; the whims of fate may bring it too soon or keep it away too long. There is no doubt that even through upheaval and chaos, there is room to fully express heartfelt emotion without holding back when it comes to love and romance with the Emperor reversed.

Family And Home - Emperor Reversed

Upheaval and change are associated with the Emperor reversed when it comes to your home life. Life seems to flow along in a manner that is certain and reliable when we are strong and steadfast, with our families and homes providing us with comfort and security; however, when the Emperor flips, new ideas flow freely like a river altering the course of our lives through unrestrained inspiration. It can be hard to grapple with life --- sometimes you may feel like you are no longer in control, but this new energy can help us realize our dreams and connect with parts of ourselves that were dormant previously. Our loved ones can provide a harbor in the midst of rough seas, helping us understand this energetic wind that blows through our lives.

Work and Finances - Emperor Reversed

In my readings it is showing that stability seems to come at a price. Our ambitions for security and prosperity can seem suddenly illusive when the Emperor is reversed. Despite our hard work, we may not be able to provide ourselves with financial comfort, and any successes we achieve will only last a short time. Despite the fact that it's sometimes difficult to accept that money cannot provide all that we need and desire, the Emperor is saying you should seek security in other aspects of our lives instead: family, friends, and even yourself. Despite financial constraints, please remember there is still much joy to be found in moments when we allow ourselves time to reflect on intrinsic values that make life worth living.

Health and Wellness - Emperor Reversed

In the moments when we feel our power is reversed, it may seem simpler to succumb to the weight of our challenges than to overcome them. In order to truly care for ourselves and reclaim our health and wellness, we must train ourselves to meet those challenges head on. Self-empowerment is possible when we eliminate the obstacles that stalemate our wellbeing. We can cultivate thriving self-care and strength through headstrong fortitude in times of unrest. Despite uncertainty and opposition, we can achieve the truest form of health and wellness.

Personal Spirituality - Emperor Reversed

Traditionally, in my readings, this reversed card represents stagnation, resistance, and a lack of control over one's own actions. In the end, however, this could be seen as a chance to accept things as they are rather than try to force them. As a result, spiritual awakening is more of an organic process than something that is forced. The idea that everything happens for “a reason” gives us comfort even when it seems we have no control over our destiny - we just have to trust fate to bring us where we are suppose to be.

The Two Of Swords Tarot Card Meaning

The Two of Swords is a card that affects most people now and again in their lives and when the time comes it is never a comfortable position to be in.

Nevertheless, sometimes the cycles of stasis inevitably become the reasons that we push ourselves so hard to progress. In this, though the season you are in is difficult, there is an added perspective of necessity in it as well. The Two of Swords is the card of being stuck in the middle and being afraid to move.

There are in fact so many options at your disposal at this moment that you fear making a move in case it is the wrong move, therefore, your hands are tied and you are stuck. Understandably this is not a position in which you would prefer to stay, so you desire with great strength to push out of it, but you don’t know where to start. You desire to have a new approach to life, but your emotions play a large role in your current circumstances and that is making it difficult for you to decide what you should do. You want to be the peacemaker, but you tend to do so at the expense of your own voice or opinions, thereby devaluing yourself. Your need for stability is now in conflict with your need to create change, thus creating the stalemate in that you find yourself in.

The image on the card in the Rider Waite Deck depicts a woman who is balancing two swords on her shoulders, representing the sharp edges she has placed herself against due to indecision. She is blindfolded representing the overall blindness to her life, and the situations that she has gotten herself into. Behind her are rocks in the sea, representing the ease of trapping those who are not allowed room for flexibility in their lives. The New Moon also shines down upon her which shows the tension in relationships, both friendship and other. She has a well-developed sense of balance, but her particular rhythm and ability to hone in on that have been compromised.

At this point in time, the Two of Swords is telling you that there is no confusion present, none that you are not already aware of. You are currently choosing to keep your eyes closed to possibilities so that you do not have to make a difficult choice. Sometimes these choices can come in the form of having to choose between friends, or getting involved in overly dramatic situations. Sometimes you are being asked a direct question and for the purpose of not hurting the person that you are involved with you are just choosing to refrain from a response, which is putting you AND your loved one in a frustrating position. In the attempts that you have made to save yourself from having to be hurt as a result of making a choice you have begun to close off your heart and this is producing deep levels of unhappiness.All of your actions at this time are being influenced not by your meditative and calm self, but by erratic and conflicted emotions, which is never a good position to be in for any long period of time.

Now is the time for you to consider a solution, there is an action that must be taken. You must give in and have faith in your intuition and in a connection with a higher source of energy to get you through this time. When you do this, you are allowing for your inner peace to be restored which will breathe life back into your veins. Consider the fact that you are unable to see your options, so your personal perspective may be skewed. Therefore in addition to focusing on communicating with your higher self, you must also seek help from others who are capable of assisting you objectively. If you do not know someone like this in your personal life, then a professional influence would be equally, if not more so, beneficial. The key is to gather information from varying perspectives so that you can weigh out the pros and the cons of your decision pragmatically. By listening to your emotions, you will know when the time has come to act. In so doing, you will find recognition in your path as well as the success of getting out of the pit of non-movement. While you process this card, consider what it is that you are avoiding, who are you having a hard time reconciling with and what decisions would you prefer to not know about or make?

The Two of Swords in Love

When the Two of Swords presents itself in your reading regarding love and relationships then you will need to make a decision. Right now you have put yourself in the position of consistent indecision which is tampering with your perspective. If you are single then in love this means that you are either avoiding pursuing something for fear of being shot down, or you are pursuing more than one person at a time and you are not appropriately giving your full attention to any one person. You need to choose. You cannot keep going this way. If you are in a relationship that is having problems, then the Two of Swords is showing you that now is the time for you to call those problems out and find actual solutions. The lack of momentum being built between you and your partner is harmful. Seek counseling if you cannot decide what to do on your own.

The Two of Swords in Health

The Two of Swords in Health represents a level of being split in half on how to appropriately care for yourself and others. There is a division in attention span; you are sacrificing too much to give to others who are ill, thereby creating the possibility of making yourself ill. You must find the balance between the two, and even if it is painful sometimes, you need to create time for yourself to process everything that has gone on. You do not want to create a level of sickness for yourself just so that you can get a break. That is not healthy.

The Two of Swords in Work and Wealth

The Two of Swords in Work and Wealth exemplifies the concept of being torn in two directions. What a situation the lady in the picture has found herself in! This is not a great place for anyone to be, especially in a work situation. It is as if she is defending herself, feeling isolated and blinded to the truth. I do like to think that the blindfold is more about meditating of the next move. If her arms move even for a moment she might fall over into the sea behind her. The problem with this card in a career context is that sudden moves may indicate that a person is trying to protect themselves. Either you or someone you work with is “between a rock and a hard place” there is not answer, but this person has two choices to make. In both choices, quiet contemplation is required and a difficult decision is required to move on. As her arms are crossed over the heart chakra it can symbolize a decision with the head rather than the heart. Currently, there is a possibility for you to work in two entirely different venues. You see for yourself a desire to move onto something that is more creatively stimulating, where you might be able to potentially help more people, but you are afraid of making the leap. Consider your options at this time. If making the leap is not safe, financially, then begin taking the steps toward making yourself financially ready for such an experience and that will get the ball rolling for you.

The Two Of Swords in Yes Or No Readings

It feels great to shift your gear away from reality when you draw the two of swords in a yes or no reading. It's telling you that it is a matter of personal preference whether to use two swords. A single sword is sufficient for some people, but others prefer the flexibility and versatility of two swords. Individual comfort level, experience, and skill are all important factors. Before deciding which way to go, it's important to practice both styles and determine which style suits your needs better. In the end, only you can decide whether two swords are right for you. In Yes Or No readings the card tells you the answer is “yes.”
 
The swords you use should be of good quality and well-maintained, no matter what route you choose. When blades are poorly made or poorly maintained, they will not perform or perform as well as those that are correctly made and properly maintained. For the best experience, make sure you understand how to use two swords simultaneously.
 
The decision to use two swords ultimately rests with you. The use of two swords for self-defense and target practice can be excellent with proper practice and maintenance. Practice with different styles and consider your individual needs before deciding.

Two of swords in the advice position of a spread

Two of swords in an advisory position suggests that you need to review a situation in it’s full. The blindfold that is worn on the picture of this card suggests that things are hidden. Things are hidden from your view and the advice is that you need to look past everything. In the advice position, the two of swords can also suggest that you are not letting anyone understand you right now. As the two swords are both heavy and the women holds these swords across her body it represents the “control” of emotions. The two of swords also represents being “closed off” in life and the choppy water behind her is a representation of the emotions that you feel.

This card often appears when one feels they are “walking on eggshells” this maybe a situation or a relationship that you are not sure will yield many problems. The advice here is to try to understand others better. The key phase in this tarot card is seeking your own inner direction and guidance in life. Try to remove your blindfold through meditation. Can you see all your options? For an advice position the two of swords can also suggest that one wants to see what is in front of them but they are blinded. You can only sit in a position for a limited amount of time (before the swords become too heavy) and you need to keep protecting what you have achieved. You need balance and insight to truly understand a problem in life.

Reversed Meaning - Two Of Swords

When the Two of Swords appears in your reading in the reversed position this is symbolic of a season of perpetual motion. You are making positive choices for yourself, you are not afraid to make a wrong decision because you have learned, ‘What does not kill you makes you stronger.’If you are still feeling stuck, just remember that the Two of Swords reversed is assisting you with the backing that you need to pursue bigger and better things. You do not have to stay stuck. Allow yourself the time that you need to relax, your affairs might be moving too quickly for you but do not let that get you down. Make sure that you do not make rash commitments to others before you have thought them through, primarily because your main focus needs to be on handling yourself and your affairs. The blindfold has been removed and you can see things clearly. Take actions that bring you positivity.

Upright Two of Swords Meanings in Keywords

• Blind to the truth
• Unable to see forward
• Emotional detachment
• Denying your emotions
• Suppressed anger
• Fear of rejection
• Self-defense

Reversed Two of Swords Meanings in Keywords

• Chilling in comfort zone
• Simple happiness
• Ordinary life
• Acceptance
• Feeling numb
• Unwilling
• Not focused on dreams

Temperance Tarot Card Meaning

In my readings this card is about balance. It normally appears when life is going to be okay. Temperance calls to question your true priorities in life and requires that you be sure that you are not the one blocking your own success by stretching yourself too thin or unwilling to meet in the middle on a significant issue. This is a card to hard to see things from the universe’s perspective and understand that the tarot is not pointing a finger at you directly, but merely trying to guide you to lessen your load. Taking on too much or too little can be detrimental to your purpose at this time.

Temperance by its very meaning is a bending of ones will to direction of the almighty. The card depicts this through multiple layers of symbolism. Usually noticed first is how the card shows a cup, and in some decks an archangel (often said to be Michael) mixing water between two chalices as a representation of balance between the elements and the dissolution of the liquids between each other. On my card, a lady is reaching up to the universe in order to find balance. A commonly missed symbolism is the feet of the angel, one in the water and one upon the land which reinforces the concept of balance and of both body and mind. Many querants will be reactive to this card, because often it is shining light on a flaw within them or within a relationship that they are seeking to develop.

Temperance in Love

When seeking advice from the tarot about love and relationships, the Temperance card indicates a need for balance in either the relationship your relationship. If you are currently single then the card is more direct and states that there is likely something blocking you from love in your life and usually represents the fact that you are giving too much in another area. For example, you are looking for love but are you really ready for it? Are there other commitments in your life such as work or family that are holding you back and taking too many resources and creating a situation where you are unlikely to be successful?

Temperance As Feelings

In a relationship reading for feelings, the temperance card will show a need for balance between both individuals. This card is drawn when compromise and compassion are needed between two people. It is a positive card that tells you that this relationship is worth the extra effort at this time.

The Temperance tarot card can also signal a balance between fire and water. It reflects that we all have the power to control our emotions, even when things around us seem chaotic. It speaks of suppressed feelings and holding back on expressing people in order to maintain peace.

Temperance in Health

In regards to health and wellness, the Temperance card is an omen that you need to either take it back or turn it up a notch. Both ends of the spectrum can be bad for one’s health, being slothful or being too lax with your health can be just as bad as overexerting yourself or doing too much. We usually see this card when health issues are on the rise and it is likely that you have already noticed deterioration in your wellness in some way. The positive news is that it is not too late to do something positive and see improvement. Think of this as a warning to take a keen look at your own mind and body and see where additional care needs to be taken. The answer will be quite obvious as rarely ever does someone in peak physical condition pull this card. If you feel however that physical health is not a problem, it is also indicative of mental health and can do not ignore signs or symptoms of anxiety, depression, or overindulgent behavior.

Temperance in Work and Wealth

Right now you need to take your money and put it under your mattress and be careful of taking risks. While the card itself means balance, more often than not when it comes to money and career it is a sign to take a step back and be more conservative with your income. It’s a touchy time for you to be taking huge risks in either avenue of your life. You need to be very careful with actions you take and possibilities that seem to arise at this time are not as good as they seem. Often this card will show that it is a good time to wait on an opportunity that arises, stating that with patience you will see a better one down the road that will pan out more fruitfully for you. A rule of thumb with the Temperance card and financial aspects be it money or work is: If it’s too good to be true… it probably is.

Reversed Temperance in a reading

In the reversed position indicates a personal balance is needed and the card is usually more internal than external. Rather than looking around and pointing fingers at others, now is an excellent time to see where you personally can scale back, create harmony in a rough situation, or literally suck it up. With the reversal of Temperance we see an even wider swing of negativity around as well. Health problems you have require more attentive care, financial problems need to be curbed immediately, and in relationships you need to seek the truth of the matter before making a decision. Often this card is drawn when a person is in a downward spiral situation and is unable to see the rational side of the problem. You need to stop and ask yourself where you could use assistance in your life to get back on track and possibly consider seeking advice from others to turn your perspective to a more productive and healthy outlook.