Friday August 2nd, 2024

An image of a wise and elderly sage, personifying introspection and knowledge. This South Asian male is seated in a library-like ambiance reminiscent of antiquity and wisdom, surrounded by timeworn scrolls and volumes of books. He holds a spiritual staff in his hand, a representation of spiritual guidance. Adjacent to him, shine three lustrous pentacles, a reference to the Treasured three of the pentacles tarot card. Subtly lying on the marbled floor are a pair of shattered chains, a metaphorical symbol of freedom and breakthrough from suppression.

A Divine Expedition into The Tarot: August 2nd, 2024

The Hierophant is our inaugural card today; a scholarly figure in the pantheon of the Tarot who is considered to be a catalyst for normative structures, tradition, and formal education within societies.

”As Epictetus stated, ‘Only the educated are free.‘

Knowledge is power, and sometimes, sticking to conventional wisdom can deliver the prosperous ground you need to flourish. Embolden your mind, honor and learn from past methods, be it in your work or personal life. The path is well-worn for a reason.

But what if we are too shy to ask for this guidance? Our second card answers with a loud, clear echo - Three of Pentacles signifies a cooperative effort, a process of learning through teamwork, and craftsmanship.

From Roman philosopher Seneca, “We should love all our dear ones, not because they are our relatives, but because they are worth our affection.”

In your ventures today, remember to embrace the collective spirit. Lean onto your colleagues or peers who you have a mutual respect for. Their expertise may provide unexpected solutions or perspectives, strengthening you in your journey of personal and professional growth.

Alas, a shadow creeps over our reading – The Devil.

In the words of Marcus Aurelius, “The universe is change; our life is what our thoughts make it. All is opinion, fear is but opinion.”

The Devil isn’t solely malignant force. It suggests the hurdles of toxic habits, the bondage of material possessions, or the entanglement of obsessive desire. The Devil’s message is not one of impending doom, but a salient reminder to decrypt our internal shackles and to question any negative patterns that may hold us hostage.

Yet the power rests within you. Remember, you can choose to liberate yourself from these chains at any time. Distance yourself from vices, be grounded in reality, and keep striving forward. Rekindle the strength to fight your own devils.

Journaling Prompt:

Reflect on the traditional values or norms instilled in you over time (The Hierophant). Have you collaborated with anyone or learned from others to enhance these values or norms (Three of Pentacles)? Now, consider your vices or toxic habits. How are they obstructing you in your lofty endeavours? What measures can you implement to break free from these chains (The Devil)?

Remember, to write is to harness and dissect our thoughts - liberating our innermost feelings and fears. Let’s uncover our truth, stride by stride, word by word, card by card. Unto our next mystic quest, my dear readers.