The Magician is the first real card (key) of the major arcana. The Fool starts with the number 0. The Magician starts with the number 1. He stands at a table with all of the tools he needs before him: a pentacle, a cup, a sword and a wand. Those are the four minor suits of the deck. This is a card of manifesting and creating. Of you being the creator and making things happen.
He extends arm up and one hand down. In, what many refer to as the, “As above, so below” gesture. Another, perhaps more common expression of this is, “…on earth as it is in heaven.” Some people may recognize that as being from The Our Father. But the idea is the same. What is in heaven, so to shall be on earth. The joys and the creation of heaven….can also be the joys and creation here on earth.
When this card presents upright, it can be encouraging the querent to use the tools they have (they have all the tools they need) to create. It can also suggest that somebody with this energy around them is going to come into their lives to help them manifest their dreams.
When this card presents in the reversed position….it can represent a “tortured artist” energy. Think of great musicians who had amazing talent, but struggled with substance abuse and became depressed and sometimes even violent. Jim Morrison comes to mind. Elvis and Kurt Cobain are two others. So they have this gift to create music…but they aren’t using it well. And instead of them being able to use their gift to give to others, it turns in on itself, and ultimately destroys them. Or, presents a significant struggle.
This card can also be reminding us (in the reversed position) to not manipulate. Creating and manifesting are one thing….but manipulating others is another. And it’s never advised.
I have several cards in the tarot I’m fond of, some I’m not fond of, and a lot that are neutral. This is one card that I like. The reminder that we all have that inherent power within ourselves to create and “make” and manifest is both true and empowering.
Be open to what calls you…
OracleIndigo