The Fool and The World are the Kether and Malkuth of the Tarot - the Alpha and Omega of the endless cycle of creation and destruction.
It’s Hebrew letter is Tau, meaning ‘cross’ and it’s ruled by Saturn. The Devil is also ruled by Saturn and this creates a link between the two cards that I have heard Ruth Ann of the New York Tarot School refer to as a ’secret path’ - another way to draw further meaning from the cards. Another ’secret path’ is to all the 4’s mentioned below, Minor Arcana 4’s and their home in Chesed - the 4th Sephiroth of the Tree of Life.
The World is one of the best cards to find in a reading. It represents wholeness and completion. The Four Sacred Animals rest in each corner and they represent a number of things:
4 Elements
4 seasons
4 fixed signs of the Zodiac – Leo, Taurus, Aquarius and Scorpio
4 corners of the earth
4 four cardinal directions
4 Disciples – the Lion of St Mark, the Bull of St Luke, the Human symbol of St John and the Eagle of St Matthew
The dancing figure in the centre of the wreath is the ‘Divine Androgyne’ who symbolises the union of opposing forces within the Self.
Before we had fancy schmancy telescopes, Saturn was the furthermost planet that could be seen with the naked eye. It represented the end of the Universe, or the end of all things. Hence it’s association with the last Trump.
The appearance of this card is a spread indicates good fortune, happiness and the fulfilment of goals and ambition. Fame and fortune can be indicated as well as success and public acclaim. In a more esoteric reading, spiritual mastery and enlightenment are indicated.
The World is often linked with travel and holidays and can also be advising the querant to get out into the world of experiences.
Another view to consider is that the wreath could be indicating a protective circle, or boundary, so perhaps the querant needs to practice psychic protection, energetic cleansing or simply be prepared to say ‘no’. As always, the other cards surrounding the World will give you more information about the correct interpretation.
When reversed or negatively aspected this card indicates that there is still some way to go before the gaol is reached, but that you are on the right track. It could also indicate that something you have been working toward is now something you no longer want. It could also be advising you that more effort is needed. Perhaps you have been lazy?
Recently:
- Tarot profile - Thoth Tarot Group 2009 - Week 1
- The Fool - Thoth Tarot 09 - Week 1
- Earth, Air, Fire, Water - The Elements of Tarot workshop
- Tarot Meetup (Sydney Area)
- 12. The Hanged Man
- Tarot Meetup - September
- 22 Weeks of Aleister Crowley’s Thoth Tarot - a study group
- Reading for Kate
- 11. Justice.
- 21. The World