The Decan
In the deep connection between Tarot and Astrology, the 'decan' serves as a crucial bridge, dividing each sign of the zodiac into three ten-degree portions. These subdivisions offer a refined understanding of each sign's characteristics, granting us a more comprehensive astrological profile. This layered nuance finds its place in Tarot, where each decan corresponds to a pip card, ranging from two to ten in the suits of Fire, Water, Earth, and Air.
For instance, let's examine the suit of Water, synonymous with emotions, relationships, and spiritual intuition. The first decan of Scorpio (a water sign) aligns with the Five of Cups in Tarot, a card symbolizing emotional upheaval or loss. The interplay of Scorpio's intense and transformative energy with the deep emotional undercurrents of the Five of Cups lends insights into times of profound emotional transformation and subsequent healing.
In the suit of Fire, associated with ambition, creativity, and spiritual will, the first decan of Leo (a fire sign) resonates with the Five of Wands. This card often signifies conflict and competition. The energetic, passionate nature of Leo, in synergy with the Five of Wands, could reflect phases of creative tension or personal conflict, serving as catalysts for growth and the fortification of self-identity.
Exploring these correlations not only expands our understanding of each pip card but also anchors them within broader astrological themes. The Astro Wheel facilitates this exploration, providing a visual representation of the associations between astrology and tarot. By aligning cosmic bodies, zodiac signs, and tarot cards, we channel the universe's energies to clarify our path and deepen our comprehension of these esoteric domains.
Delving deeper might involve assessing the impact of the planetary rulers of each decan and how their influences subtly mold the essence of each pip card. Adding the Major Arcana to the Astro Wheel introduces yet another dimension, opening more points of correlation and contemplation. This invites us into a profound journey into the mysteries of tarot and astrology, with limitless opportunities for exploration and personal revelation.
Change - Challenge - Chase
I've developed a concept of "Change", "Challenge", and "Chase" as a lens to view the nuanced interactions of the zodiac signs and decans. It may not resonate with everyone, and that's perfectly fine. Nonetheless, I invite you to delve further into my perspective, and perhaps find some valuable insights within this unique approach to understanding the complex dynamics of astrology and tarot.
Understanding each decan through the lens of "Change", "Challenge", and "Chase" brings a profound insight into their respective behaviors and motivations. In this triadic division, the first decan represents "Change", signaling the transformative shift or evolution the sign seeks to embody. The second decan, referred to as the "Challenge", highlights the compensatory adjustments or hurdles that the sign may encounter on its path. The third, the "Chase", symbolizes the sign's ultimate desires or aspirations.
Lets look at Cancer, my own native sign, with this in mind. In the first decan, Jupiter's influence suggests that the desired "Change" for Cancer involves a quest for growth, expansion, and wisdom. They may seek to broaden their emotional understanding, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and compassion, and finding a higher purpose in their nurturing nature.
The second decan, influenced by Mars, represents the "Challenge". Mars' aggressive and assertive energy could manifest as an inner struggle to defend and assert emotional boundaries. This fiery influence prompts Cancer to confront any fears around emotional vulnerability and to muster the courage to protect their emotional well-being.
In the third decan, the Sun represents the "Chase". Here, Cancer is yearning for emotional enlightenment, akin to the heart-centered connection previously mentioned. The Sun adds vitality, illumination, and clarity to Cancer's pursuit, showing the way towards emotional maturity and self-expression.