A seasoned tarot reader knows an endless universe of symbols in each card. However, sometimes, we tend to overlook what seems to be in the background. When images are set in a natural environment, do you focus on the main character only? If so, chances are you’re losing a few interesting keys to improve your readings.
For instance, have you ever considered the tree in The Hanged Man? How do the colors of the flowers in the Six of Cups or The Magician reflect deep emotions in your consultant? Delving into the natural background of tarot and decrypting these additional meanings can bring new light to our readings.
The profound meaning of trees in tarot readings
Tree symbols are present in all cultures and ages. Understanding how the ancient world understood trees will give you additional information. For instance, in Nordic mythology, Yggdrasil is a gargantuan tree that connects nine worlds. This tree is not only a source of knowledge, as in the famous Tree of Life, but it also represents existence itself and the interconnection of reality.
So, instead of only growth, we may see trees as a source of connection between the material and the spiritual worlds. That’s why there’s a tree in The Hanged Man. The main character must pause and look deep inside to change his perspective. This inner transformation requires a deep connection and redefining goals and beliefs, which is easier when our spiritual connection links with results in the material world. This interconnectedness of nature and spirituality can bring a profound sense of enlightenment to our readings.
When trees are thick and leafy, they usually represent abundance and a greater syntony between ourselves and the creative forces in the universe. The best example we can get is the natural background in The Empress. These trees are firmly rooted, constantly watered, and continually growing towards the sky. That’s why we hold that the empress is connected to the source of natural prosperity.
How to interpret flowers and their colors
Most people immediately notice flowers in tarot cards and associate them with beauty, growth, success, and love. However, the definitions of flowers vary depending on the type and color.
Beyond their love and beauty meanings, flowers grow and wither in a continuous cycle that symbolizes life. Sometimes, they represent a new stage in life or an ending cycle. For instance, in the Four of Wands, flowers show celebration and beauty after a stage in the consultant’s life has concluded. Now, they’re ready to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Roses in The Magician card can symbolize passion and love but also represent secrets and a mystery about to be unveiled. Going beyond passion, a red rose can also represent desire and intentions. In The Magician card, these intentions are deeply connected to a manifestation in the physical world.
On the other hand, lilies represent purity and spirituality, a meaning related to their color and appearance. However, they also represent understanding and connection to our inner wisdom. In The High Priestess, lilies represent intuition and trusting ourselves to explore the world. In the Six of Cups, white flowers are symbols of innocence and simplicity. They interact with other elements of the card to convey the meaning of remembrance of past days when we were children and reconnecting with our life lessons.
As noted, incorporating nature into our readings can add new layers of depth and clarity. In some cases, natural symbols provide an enlightening perspective on standard interpretation. In others, paying attention to these symbols can lead to a new understanding of the message. So, next time you lay out a spread, take a moment to observe what nature is quietly saying in the background. You might be surprised by the new insights and understanding that await you.
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