judgment card... insights wanted

Thread originally posted on the Aeclectic Tarot Forum on 02 Nov 2003, and now archived in the Forum Library.

Adele	02 Nov 2003
can someone give me some feedback on the judgment card in the rider waite deck? I know it is about spiritual awakening but what else can you tell me about it. all insights greatly appreciated. for instance, when it keeps coming up in someone's readings, what is the clear cut message? thanks.

Nevada	02 Nov 2003
Adele, In some decks this is called the Karma card, or in Thoth the Aeon. My introduction to it was as the Time-Space card in Voyager Tarot. To me it represents cause and effect, the effects of our actions in this world, which can be far reaching and effect how the future plays out. The symbolism in Ryder-Waite, of spirits rising from a graveyard to be judged, depicts the judging of one's actions at the end of physical life. To me this particular depiction appears to come from a Christian perspective. Other decks relate it more to reincarnation. For more insight into the meanings of cards you might want to look through the Using Tarot Cards, Study Group, or Reading Exchange folders. Nevada34

Adele	02 Nov 2003
hi, thanks for your reply... I have a question... can this card also signify an angel is watching over the person and attempting to lead them in a certain direction? thanks.

HudsonGray	02 Nov 2003
I think it could, but it doesn't necessarily mean that. Judgement is like the Death card in a lot of ways, new paths coming up. Only usually without the massive ending of what was--it's an outgrowth of what you've worked up to so far, a natural progression to the next step forward that will take you through more changes without necessarily eliminating your ability to step back occasionally. With the Death card, you can't step back, it's a path where you are only moving forward.

Adele	02 Nov 2003
so it's about spiritual renewals... changes stemming from your actions... but it's a spiritual calling... an awakening... the angel is sounding its trumpet (rider waite deck)... it is calling the souls to awaken... and giving them new life.

Star Spirit	02 Nov 2003
I see Judgement as forgiving and forgetting your past and looking into the future, stepping into something new and fresh. But I suppose it could also indicate heavenly matters in some ways, if other cards suggest it.

Adele	02 Nov 2003
thank you Dead Star... yes, I agree with you... releasing the past... stepping into something new... angel can be guiding... there is guidance from above, etc. it makes perfect sense... I like your interpretation... forgetting the past and looking into the future.

Star Spirit	02 Nov 2003
Thanks :> Glad I was of some help.

Adele	02 Nov 2003
Dead Star, I love your quote!

Umbrae	02 Nov 2003
There is an O. Henry story called “A Retrieved Reformation.” That’s sorta the way I see Judgment. In it, a safe-cracker must reveal his identity to the authorities and risk going back to prison, in order to save a young girls life (“Jimmy Valentine only drills one hole…”). Hunt it down... Judgment is a second chance, a time to move on. Most folks don’t, they go into denial and carry around the old baggage the rest of their lives. You only get this chance if you look at yourself under the light of The Sun, which leaves no shadows. Secrets…even you own to yourself are revealed to yourself and admitted to yourself… When such happens, you can go home…be it this plane or others…

Star Spirit	02 Nov 2003
Thanks :> I like quotes. Duh.

Adele	03 Nov 2003
Umbrae, I like that interpretation... thanks.

firemaiden	03 Nov 2003
Wow, thanks for the story link, Umbrae! I will always associate Judgement with that story from now on. Got any more of those up your sleeve?

The judgment card... insights wanted thread was originally posted on 02 Nov 2003 in the Talking Tarot board, and is now archived in the Forum Library. Read the active threads in Talking Tarot, or read more archived threads.