TarotCraft 202.01: Ace of Wands

Ace of Wands from the Universal Waite Tarot deck.

The TarotCraft 201 Course in the Minor Arcana continues with lessons on the Suite of Wands. Click on the audio file to listen, or read more for the text.

TarotCraft 201 Course: Minor Arcana

Lesson 202.01: Ace of Wands
 
Image description
A hand extends from a cloud, grasping an upraised tree branch with green shoots sprouting from the tip and sides. Wands are traditionally considered to have "masculine" energy, so the green leaves represent starting points and beginnings, new life erupting from the phallic Wand. The cloud is grey against an overcast sky. Four fingers of the hand are curled around the Wand, palm facing forward. The thumb rests up along the side of the Wand. Beneath this, a river flows through green fields, some trees on its banks. In the distance, a castle is atop a green hill. In the far distance are purple mountains.
 
Yes or No upright Yes
Yes or No reversed No

Amplified by The Fool; the other Aces
Amplifier for The Fool; the other Aces
                          
Traditional name Root of the powers of Fire
Traditional meaning U: Creation, birth, family, origin; R: Fall, decadence, ruin, perdition
 
Zodiac and Element Pure Fire element

Timing Immediate; beginning of the day; Summer month ​

TarotCraft meaning
In the Ace of Wands we see the generation of life and the potential for more. The Wand is life-force itself, showing both physical passion and things for which you feel a passion. Sexuality expressed physically or directed towards other activities

Before you light a fire, you need to strike a match. The match holds the potential for complete transformation. Once lit, the match won't return to its original state. This card represents the moment before you strike, should you choose to.

​The Ace of Wands represents the capacity to create new life physically and creatively. It can indicate the search for meaning and purpose in your life and a connection to something bigger than you. 
A positive potential for new creative and energetic beginnings is shown.

When this card comes to call, you may be feeling in need of a new lease of life or have a surge of energy that needs direction.
 
TarotCraft Reversed meaning
Some cards in this Suite will show energy being harnessed and directed. Others will show power out of control or burnout. Delays and obstacles are indicated.

When the Ace is reversed or negatively aspected, a false start may occur, or the potential held by the Ace may fail to manifest. Lacking confidence in your power, you resist opportunities for change and evolution. The potential of this Ace is blocked. To resolve the issue, draw another card(s) to find out what the blockage is and how to fix it.
 
TarotCraft Gift, Invitation, and Challenge

Invitation
You are being invited not just to shed layers but to be transformed entirely, like a Phoenix. Embrace the moment and trust the guidance of your inner wisdom. Allow the momentum of your inspiration to carry you forward. You are being invited to act on the urge to create or to begin something new

Gift
Your life is about to be enlarged in some way, with the gift of inspired guidance on offer. Your innate wisdom is available to you, so act now, with confidence. Inspiration from Divine sources or your higher Self is making itself known.

Challenge
Initial inspiration may be starting to feel stale, or you are second-guessing yourself. When the excitement and novelty of new enterprises wear off, you may find it hard to keep going, but persistence will bring success. You may feel such a rush of energy and power that it is hard to be grounded enough to make the inspiration you are receiving a reality.
 
Go back to Lesson 202.00 Introduction to the Suite of Wands

Go forward to Lesson 202.02: The 2 of Wands