So recently I decided to work almost exclusively with Chrysalis Tarot so I can get acquainted with it and feel comfortable using it both for myself and for others' readings. I don't usually like to spend time learning a deck that deviates too much from RWS (you've probably noticed I've mentioned that a few times here!). Now, while this deck is RWS based, it's also its own thing - that is, some meanings have been modified and/or made more "soothing," shall I say - like take The Devil. I drew this card today as part of a larger 9-card general self-exploratory spread, and The Devil came up as the final card - in the "Free will" or "Action to be taken" position. Now, ordinarily I would not be happy to see this card anywhere, as I view The Devil as announcing being stuck or prisoner of something (habit, bad relationship, etc); in that particular position, I would see it as advising me to break free of negative thinking - the self-doubting stuff that holds me back at times. In Chrysalis, this card is titled "Bella Rosa" with the attribute or keyword being "Detachment." Interesting. The image of this card is quite pleasant, especially for me, as one who loves masks and masquerades. What we see is a woman in ornate Carnevale de Venezia costume and mask, holding a hand mirror in her left hand and a red rose in her right; there is a snake swallowing its own tail (Ouroboros) in the air near her. This card, according to the LWB with the deck, indicates rebirth (the Ouroboros) and fulfillment of a cycle, an understanding of the benefit of detachment from material obsessions and unhealthy habits. Quite different from the standard RWS version! Here in Chrysalis it's about new beginnings, breaking out and free, realization, wisdom even. So while it does admonish being a slave to materialism (which is one of the RWS possibilities in the Devil), it also indicates the querent is beyond that and on his/her way to clarity and freedom. I like that Chrysalis takes the high road and gives the benefit of the doubt and the gentle nudge to us with the assumption that we all are not only capable, but inclined to be this way. Is this whitewashing reality? No, I think it's a softer approach with a more optimistic (and artistically beautiful) message than the grim RWS we're mostly all used to.
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AuthorI am an intuitive counselor and visionary artist who has studied and worked with Tarot for over 20 years. I am an avid collector of tarot art, as well as a creator. I am the creator of four oracle decks. I also have an extensive collection of tarot art images on Pinterest.com which you can enjoy. Archives
February 2016
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