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SEPTEMBER 2009

The EMPRESS, Key III, Major Arcana

by Peggy Firth, Certified Tarot Master

(above) The Empress of the Robin Wood Tarot Deck

The Empress has come to mean, “She who sets in order” as well as the “Queen.” We also see her as Mother Earth, the fertile nurturer in her voluminous dress covered with pomegranates. I call her the “pregnant queen” who sits upon a comfortable cube with pillows of rich fabrics in a woodsy outdoor setting. In the background are tall trees, a waterfall and other greenery. In the foreground a field of maturing wheat, the symbol of life giving substance.

The Empress represents fertility, practical and fruitful abundance and life giving essence. She also represents the ability to give and receive love. Psychologically the Empress represents the mother of ideas and sexual vitality. The Empress’s power lies in the ability to honor nature and its cycles. She shows us how to nurture our own and use them as sources for creative energy.

The Following symbols and their meanings offer ideas for reading. Keep in mind that your subconscious mind may be immediately attracted to a specific symbol that will help you read with more accuracy:

Twelve six pointed stars that form a crown represent the zodiac – The Empress has dominion over the laws of the world or universal authority.
Wreath of Myrtle lies beneath her crown – Radient energy
Seven pearl necklace – Seven levels of evolution and development
Heart shaped shield – Symbol of Venus
Scepter topped with a globe – Power over the world
Water – Stream of inspiration
Pomegranates on dress fabric – Fruit representing the creative source of many
Collar with twelve circles – Astrological phases of the moon and

Robin Wood Deck:
Spinning Wheel – Bringing creative thoughts into fruition
Bird – Mental realms of consciousness

Upright meaning – Consider nurturing issues, relationships with children or creative projects.
A situation that represents happiness and fulfillment
Honor natural relationships

Reversed – Release, heal or forgive someone or something. A female who needs attention.
Spend more time and energy to connect with nature, ones self or with someone
Do not give so much that you deplete yourself