The Tarot of Eli 2, LLC: Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Key 13-Death & The Animal Totem Tarot - Key 13-Death.

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The Rider-Waite-Smith-Key 13-Death, departed from the Tradition set by the Golden Dawn or the older Marseilles cards. Here, Waite displays his own personal experience with this Card. The warrior quality of the Death card is expressed as a Skeletal Knight. His medieval presentation of Death as the Black Knight, riding past the fallen King of Matter.

Before the Death Knight is the bishop with fish-shaped Miter, implying the passing of the Piscean age.

The rising sun behind the two towers (first seen on the Moon card) refers to resurrection which is the conquest of death.

The flying banner depicts a white rose with ten petals, five inner and five outers. Being based on five, the white rose refers to the 5th Sephiroth on the Tree of Life- Geburah's Martian force.

However, the totality of the petals refers to the entire Universe under Kether, as Kether is presented as the White color (perfect balanced Weight of all colors). This also relates to the 0-Fool and Uranus, to which the White Rose is related.

The Animal Totem Tarot -Key 13-Death illustrates death as a vulture probably eating the carrion of a white horse. This card has all the meanings of the traditional tarot card illustrations where death is often shown riding a white horse. However, there are no kings or queens obviously present. The background is a hazy mountain scape as shown by the cloudy haze.

Like the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot death card, this card is about an end of a cycle, a transformation and/or change. Rather than be seen as a bad thing, this card actually represents a transformational change that benefits you. Here, the transformational change is occurring to end a cycle of events that have sabotaged you or hurt you in some way. Thereby, removing the gravity in your life and freeing you to renew and move on.

To the Qabalist, motion, is the function applied to Nun, the Hebrew letter supplied to the Western Hermetic Thoth Death- Card and all tarot death cards used by Western Hermetic Qabalists. The RWS Tarot shows Lord Dread on a prancing horse, an image representing the Qabalistic knowledge of the motion of Transformation as does the winged vulture on the Animal Totem death card. Hence, from this we gather many other meanings, such as, to travel, to pass away, to depart, to whirl, to sail away; all pointing at change/transformation helping arrive at the notion that change/transformation is the basis of manifestation and/or a Universal Constant of Becoming.

The river seen in the RWS Key 13 is a symbol for this transformative force, as a river is a part of Water's Transformative manifestation, as it arises from a Sea, to become a vapor, that condenses into clouds that become saturated and form rain, snow, and/or ice that change the landscape. Hence, the Element of Water, "dies" to one state and forms in another, just like bodies and Souls. It also is a symbol of Dark Water, which represents the subconscious and its fears. The Vulture also demonstrates the ability to transform from carrion, by consumption to a new living being.

The Sun is shown setting in the West, which is attributed to this card, as well as the planet Jupiter, which governs all circular and rotational movement. The direction of South relates to the Sun and on the RWS Card the Sun is shown rising between the towers of both Life and Death.

The Zodiacal House of Scorpio, a fixed, watery sign, is assigned to the Death Card. Scorpio is ruled by Mars (and/or Pluto) which is the Power of the Key 16-The Tower and is said by astrologers to be the sign of exaltation of Uranus (Key 0 the Fool). Scorpio rules the sex organs, making it strongly associated to reproduction. Interestingly, it relates to the 8th house of the horoscope which is called the house of death. The corresponding color is blue green, and the musical tone is G-natural.

Scorpio is the eighth astrological sign in the zodiac, and it is associated with the element Water and ruled by the planet Mars (traditional) and Pluto (modern). People born between October 23 and November 22 fall under the Scorpio sign. Here are some key characteristics often attributed to Scorpios:

1. Passionate: Scorpios are known for their intense and passionate nature. They approach life with depth and emotion, whether it's in relationships, work, or personal interests.

2. Determined: Once Scorpios set their sights on a goal, they are highly determined and focused. They don't easily give up and are willing to put in the effort needed to achieve their objectives.

3. Mysterious: Scorpios tend to have a mysterious aura about them. They may keep aspects of their thoughts and emotions private, making it challenging for others to fully understand them.

4. Resilient: Scorpios are often resilient and can bounce back from challenges. They possess a strong sense of inner strength that helps them endure difficulties and setbacks.

5. Resourceful: Scorpios are resourceful problem-solvers. They have a knack for finding solutions, especially in challenging situations, and are not afraid to delve into the depths to uncover hidden truths.

6. Loyal: Scorpios value loyalty in their relationships. They can be deeply devoted to their friends, family, and partners, and they expect the same level of loyalty in return.

7. Independent: While Scorpios appreciate deep connections, they also value their independence. They may need personal space and time to recharge their emotional energy.

8. Determined: Scorpios are known for their strong will and determination. When they set their sights on a goal, they pursue it with intensity and tenacity.

9. Strategic: Scorpios often have a strategic mindset. They can analyze situations, plan ahead, and make calculated decisions, especially in areas of their life where they have a vested interest.

10. Intuitive: Scorpios tend to have a strong intuition. They can sense and understand underlying emotions and motivations, which contributes to their depth of perception.

Keep in mind that while these characteristics are associated with Scorpios, individual personalities can vary based on various factors such as upbringing, experiences, and the influence of other astrological placements in an individual's birth chart.

Qabalistically Death -key 13 is known as "the ground of similarity in the likeness of all beings" and is called the Imaginative Intelligence by Dr. Paul Foster Case, a Western Hermetic Qabalist. Hence, it is the intelligent basis of resemblances that are transmitted through reproductive functions and/or DNA. Therefore, the Death card suggests the Ageless Wisdom which states "causation is mental".... Therefore, DNA is an intelligent molecule that has recently been suggested to be over many of trillions of years old, while the earth has only lived for 3.8 billion years! This makes our DNA a celestial paradigm (Plasma) rather than an earthly one which is often discussed in the theory of panspermia.

The forces of transformation which result in physical death are inimical and feared only because the survival mind of the Subconscious misunderstands and fears them. These transformative forces are connected to reproduction, and by right use of Imagination (I-Magi-Nation) they can be tamed and transformed, so that they can be utilized for indefinite prolongation of physical existence. As many yogis prove. "There is only One Energy that cannot be created nor destroyed, only transformed (and Transmitted)." which is the 1st Law of Thermodynamics. This Tarot Card-Key 13-Death is but the image of this statement.

Death, like every other event in Organic Manifestation, is a manifestation of Law, for image must begin and end as it is an "assumption of measurement". When one understands the Law, the personality will not "die", it just moves forward into the next journey of Self-Assumption/Awareness. However, the "fear of death" puts the Soul's created personality into a "darkness of sleep", as it supposed it belongs to the brain that just ended. One finds this not to be true, when one conquers the fears of the Subconscious, which are all based on fear of death.

I can remember many lifetimes, that some accused me of "being only your imagination" yet there is a wisdom of the ages in my soul. I AM, is the truth of existence, but "Me" is only Imagined, and /or assumed. Hence, all of us are "being only our imagination" and the I -Magi-Nation is the Nation of Imagination's Manifested Self. Understanding this, will never come to those who fear, until fear of not only of dying, but of the action of death is shown to be an inevitable act of transformation necessary to accumulate Wisdom and by the knowledgeable interpretation of the phenomena of physical dissolution that imitates immortality. Here we understand that death of the physical transforms one paradigm of organic being, coagulation, into another paradigm of solution; a recycling process that keeps the Earth alive.

The Rider-Waite-Smith relates the key 13-Death to the Piscean Age and its religious dispensation of Patriarchy. However, TAROT was not invented for the Piscean Age only, and to limit the operation of the Law depicted in Key 13 to this one period of human history is to obscure the fact that Key 13 represents something that is at work in every age. Hence, the Tarot version of death has evolved even though, like older versions, the newer cards show a walking or riding skeleton with a scythe instead of a banner. Behind there is a river, and a sun. The river moves from the north-west to the south-east, as does the skeleton. The skeleton is the basic foundation and/or essential thing in all movements of the human body.

The RWS Death carries a black flag decorated with a white, five-petal rose, reflecting beauty, purification, and immortality and in numerology-the number five representing change. Together, these symbols reveal that death isn’t about life ending. Death is about endings and beginnings, birth, and rebirth, change and transformation.

I AM The Spirit and not seeking one! I animate "bodies" in my name of "I Am"! Bodies allow intimacy with all measured creation and turn information into experience, by in-form-action. Experience builds Wisdom and death is merely a wise alchemical change.

The vultures many are not the prettiest of birds, but like death it has a very necessary function of recycling. Like the act of death itself, the vulture brings the "after death" process of purification, putrefaction, into our personal view. The process of death on earth, is most important because of the limited amount of organic material that is on earth. Life activates organic material as the "alive". Hence, it must "eat itself to stay alive".

We are Plasmic Solar Selves and are photonic not organic. Hence, the Solar Self doesn't experience physical death, it just transforms its actions due to the data/information it accumulates through experience. Therefore, we must understand that organic matter is from putrefaction, to dissolution, to solution and then coagulation. 

The vulture, as a totem animal, power animal, and spirit guide, holds profound symbolic significance across many spiritual and cultural traditions. Here is a breakdown of its characteristics and meanings in each context:

Vulture as a Totem Animal

A totem animal reflects one’s core identity and life-long guidance. If the vulture is your totem animal, it symbolizes:

• Resourcefulness: Vultures teach how to make the best out of difficult situations and thrive with limited resources.
• Adaptability: They demonstrate the ability to survive and flourish in diverse environments.
• Patience: Vultures are masters of waiting for the right moment, teaching the power of timing in achieving goals.
• Transformation and Renewal: They are associated with death and rebirth, representing a bridge between endings and new beginnings.
• Cleanse and Purify: By consuming what is decaying or toxic, they cleanse their environment, symbolizing purification and renewal.

People with the vulture totem often act as healers or problem-solvers, helping others find clarity and purpose.

Vulture as a Power Animal

A power animal serves as a temporary guide or source of strength in times of need. When vulture energy is invoked, it can provide:

• Clear Perspective: Vultures soar high and see far, offering insight into the bigger picture and clarity in confusing situations.
• Resilience: Vultures endure challenges with grace, empowering you to overcome adversity with confidence and strength.
• Efficient Use of Resources: They teach you to avoid wastefulness and focus on what truly matters in your life.
• Energy Renewal: They can guide you through personal transformation, shedding old habits or thought patterns that no longer serve you.
• Respect for Cycles: The vulture reminds you of the sacredness of life and death cycles, encouraging respect for nature’s balance.

Calling upon the vulture as a power animal often signals a time for personal growth, spiritual awakening, or change.

Vulture as a Spirit Guide

A spirit guide provides wisdom and spiritual insight. The vulture as a spirit guide often appears when you need to:

• Embrace Death and Rebirth: They guide you through transitions, encouraging acceptance of endings as precursors to new beginnings.
• Release Toxicity: Vultures help you identify and release emotional, mental, or physical toxicity in your life.
• Find Purpose in the Unseen: They teach you to see hidden opportunities or blessings in challenging circumstances.
• Connect with Higher Realms: Known for their link to death and the spirit world, vultures can help you connect with ancestors or divine guidance.
• Focus on Spiritual Evolution: Vultures guide you to rise above earthly concerns and embrace a higher spiritual purpose.

If a vulture appears as your spirit guide, it may signal a time of profound spiritual transformation, urging you to trust the process and allow divine timing to unfold.

Key Takeaway

The vulture embodies wisdom, renewal, and transformation. It is a teacher of adaptability and patience, encouraging deep introspection and alignment with the cycles of life. Whether appearing as a totem, power animal, or spirit guide, the vulture brings profound spiritual messages of growth, balance, and the interconnectedness of life and death.

The vulture’s association with the Egyptian goddess Maat underscores its profound spiritual and symbolic significance in ancient Egyptian culture. Maat, as the goddess of truth, justice, balance, and cosmic order, holds a pivotal role in Egyptian cosmology, and the vulture as her sacred bird embodies many of her divine attributes. Here's an explanation:

The Vulture and Maat

1. Symbol of Protection and Maternal Care:

   • In Egyptian mythology, vultures were seen as highly protective and nurturing. The Egyptian word for "mother" (mut) is closely associated with the vulture, and goddesses such as Mut and Nekhbet (a vulture goddess) were depicted wearing or embodying the vulture’s form.
   • As Maat is the guardian of balance and harmony, the vulture reflects her protective and maternal qualities in maintaining cosmic order.

2. Agent of Purification and Balance:

   • Vultures are scavengers, cleansing the environment by removing decay. This mirrors Maat’s role in purifying chaos and maintaining balance within the natural and spiritual realms.
   • Just as the vulture ensures the ecological cycle remains intact, Maat upholds the balance between creation and destruction, life and death.

3. Connection to Divine Law and the Afterlife:

   • In the Weighing of the Heart Ceremony, where a soul’s heart was weighed against Maat’s feather of truth, the vulture’s association with death and rebirth parallels the goddess’s role as a judge of souls.
   • Vultures, often seen circling over death, symbolize the transition of the soul, aligning with Maat’s function as the overseer of moral and cosmic equilibrium in the afterlife.

4. Representation of High Vision and Clarity:

   • Vultures, with their ability to soar high and see far, symbolize divine oversight, similar to Maat’s role in observing and maintaining the order of the universe.
   • This attribute reinforces Maat’s wisdom and her connection to truth, as the vulture can perceive what lies hidden or out of reach.

5. Sacred Role in Royal Iconography:

   • Vultures were often depicted in Egyptian art and iconography as symbols of royal authority and divine favor. They adorned the crowns and regalia of pharaohs, representing protection and the divine truth that Maat upheld as a cosmic principle.

Mythological and Spiritual Importance

The vulture’s sacred status to Maat also highlights the Egyptians’ reverence for the interconnectedness of life and death, and the need for balance in all things. Maat’s cosmic role in aligning the universe mirrors the ecological function of the vulture as a balancer of life’s cycles.

Thus, the vulture, as the sacred bird of Maat, serves as a potent emblem of protection, purification, justice, and the eternal cycle of balance that Maat herself embodies.

The Death Card-Key 13, during a reading, suggests:

• Time, Age, and transformation.
• Rarely does it symbolize physical death and only if borne out by the accompanying cards.
• For the Querent, this is the principle of letting go and moving on.
• A rebirth out of old conditions. 
• A type of transitional metamorphosis which destroys something old to build something new.
•  The Realization of Life Power as it is released from past confines and revitalized by change and regeneration.
• Inner wisdom and consistency.
• Moving forward.
• Freedom to change.

If reversed:

• Fear of Death (the root of all fears and phobias such as fear of discomfort, fear of loss, fear of rejection/abandonment, and phobias place on beings as death).

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