Overview: The Lovers & The Sixes

The first step towards gaining a deeper understanding of the Tarot, and something a lot of people forget to do, is to break down the 56 minor arcana cards into 14 groups - the aces, the twos, threes, and so on. So instead of having 56 cards, you only have one set of 14 cards, each with four different suits, coupled with a card from the major arcana as an influence of those cards. In a previous post we discussed the suits and the difference aspect they symbolise, now it's just a matter or leaning the 14 different groups of cards, and their relationship with their "parent" major arcana.

In this lesson, we shall be discussing  The Lovers and the sixes 

 The Lovers & The Sixes

 

 

The Lovers

The sixes relate to the lovers. The card depicts two lovers with the snake of temptation in the background, a divine spirit with open hands above them and a radiant sun. This card is not so much about two people however as it is about one. The person who has the experience of love feels the passion and desire for another, be it another person or another endeavour or goal. In this way, the lovers is about that feeling inside you that allows you to know something with absolute certainty, even when it might not be entirely certain.  The lovers are that instinctual drive that we create within ourselves, from the most intense and mysterious desires. This card represents falling in love with something or someone.

The Sixes

Just as the fives lost their balance with the asymmetry they created within our building blocks metaphor, the sixes regain their balance. Two lovers, each with a heart, a mind and a body share six parts between them. In this way, the sixes represent the coming together of the parts. They indicate a return to harmony and balance after a time of frustration and strife. The sixes help achieve balance, equilibrium, a soul mate. Just as someone or something that balances your life that you feel completes you.

The Six of Swords

The six of swords depicts the beginning of a voyage, this could be a literal or figurative voyage. The relationship between the oarsman and the passenger is symbiotic. The oarsman receives a fair in exchange for the passengers safe passage over the river. Note however, that the cargo consists of the swords, which is symbolic of carrying ones troubles or challenges along. However in this card the path is moving forward, these people are on their way to finding balance and harmony, as the number six suggests. The oarsman represents a guide or a leader, taking the others in the right direction whilst avoiding the dangers. This could be a counsellor, partner or perhaps even a book in which the querant finds comfort. This is a happy journey, a positive one, but it is not without its dangers, as represented by the turbulent waters. Although the shore is in sight, they have not yet arrived, and this journey is not necessarily smooth sailing.

The Six of Wands

The six of wands depicts a triumphant arrival. A man on horseback, his staff adorned with a wreath signifying victory and achievement. People surround him with their staffs high in recognition of his accomplishment. He has achieved not only victory but the adoration of those who surround him. However, it is important to understand that this victor-parade is illusory. While the recognition may be deserved, it is not going to be long lived. Indeed, parades are not given all the time. They're a special reason to celebrate, perhaps, but as the laurel wreath around this man's head may remind us, a man can not rest on his laurels - the pomp and circumstances for this parade will soon be gone. The parade is not lasting, and the triumphant person does not exist for accolades - the work must continue. Savour the moment, but do not forget the work that brought you here.

The Six of Cups

The six of cups depicts two children surrounded by six flowering cups. They are full and lush. The older child has her arms outstretched, sharing the joy with the younger child. This card is a card of nostalgia or memories or simple pleasures - particularly of sharing those feelings with others. This may represent an idea from out past which brings us pleasure, or a person whom we derive mutual joy. However, like all the sixes, this too is a temporary fleeting moment. It will not last. This cards serves as a reminder to enjoy the moment, savour it, but be aware that more challenging times may lie ahead.

The Six of Pentacles

The six of pentacles depicts a man with scales in his left hand hiving to others. Contrast this with the five of pentacles, with the couple shut in from the outside. Understanding the emotions of these characters reminds the querant of both sides of generosity - giving and sharing when you can, and also the relief that comes from receiving when in need. This card challenges the querant to identify their position, assess what can be given by them, and also what is being offered to them. This card reminds s to choose to make a positive difference but also, not let pride get in the way of someone who is able to help them, if they should find the shoe on the other foot.