The Tarot of Eli 2-LLC: Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Key 8-Strength & The Animal Totem Tarot -Key 8- Strength.

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The Lady and the Lion on the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot-Key 8-Strength card represents the divine feminine energy, often associated with sensuality, creativity, and emotional depth. She demonstrates a balance between her inner desires and her ability to control them by petting and/or holding the lion's jaw closed.

On the Rider-Waite-Smith Strength card the red roses represent love; Hence, the Animal Nature of the body is under the control of the Will of the "Higher Self", seen as an angelic woman figure. Also, the Red Lion is the Alchemical symbol of Sulfur (solar power) combined with Mercury-Will (the Magus) which is the Philosophical Mercury underlying the formula of Creation.

The Symbol of infinity known as the lemniscate (the horizonal figure eight sign of the Magician) is above the head of the Waite- goddess figure. The goddess is also wearing a wreath of victory, reinforcing the Magus/Magician connection, and symbolizing the directing willpower of the 12th PATH; in Western Hermetic Qabalistic Tarot Strength is called the Philosophic Mercury and/or the Path of Teth.

The Path of Teth, connects Chesed (Mercy) and Geburah (Severity) and channels a great outpouring of Energy from the Masculine Chesed, to the Feminine Geburah. This Great Outpouring is the Path on which Fire becomes Light, which is used in manifestation as the woven frequencies of manifestation and is both invisible microwaves and visible light waves.

The Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS)-Key 8-Strength shows the Lion's Tail tucked between its legs, as if phallic, of which the Serpent Force is associated with. What is of interest here is that the Qabalistic Thoth Tarot assigns the zodiacal sign of Leo to this card (ATU 11-Lust); Leo is symbolized as a Lion, while Teth, the Hebrew letter assigned to the Lust card, is a Snake, the combination of these two, is the Lion-Serpent, the idea of which fostered the Dragon and dragonish chimera images of the ancients and the archangel Asmodeus. 

The interchangeability of the Lion and the Serpent symbols represents an important key in understanding the great embedded profundities of this card as it pertains to the mysterious power of the Kundalini that lies coiled at the base of the spine; a force that is both Feminine-Moon and Solar-Male. This information was carefully guarded in the Western Hermetic organizations that Waite and is only hinted at in this card.

Arthur Edward Waite, the co-creator of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, was intricately involved in several Western esoteric and Hermetic organizations during his lifetime. His affiliations played a significant role in shaping his mystical and occult teachings, which are evident in his literary and symbolic contributions.

Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

Waite was a member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, one of the most influential and prominent occult societies of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Golden Dawn was dedicated to the study and practice of the occult, metaphysics, and paranormal activities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It synthesized various strands of Western esotericism, including Hermeticism, Kabbalah, alchemy, and tarot.

Key Points About Waite's Involvement:

1. Initiation and Membership:

   • Waite was initiated into the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and actively participated in its activities. His involvement provided him with a deep understanding of the mystical and symbolic frameworks that would later influence his work on the Rider-Waite Tarot.

2. Contributions to the Order:

   • Within the Golden Dawn, Waite was involved in various rituals and scholarly pursuits. His dedication to preserving the integrity of the order's teachings was notable, especially during periods of internal conflict and schism.

3. Relationship with Other Members:

   • Waite maintained relationships with key figures in the Golden Dawn, including Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers, one of the order's founders. However, Waite eventually distanced himself from some of the internal disputes that plagued the organization.

4. Influence on Tarot Development:

   • His experiences and knowledge gained from the Golden Dawn were instrumental in the development of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck. The deck reflects the Golden Dawn's emphasis on symbolism, numerology, and esoteric teachings.

Other Esoteric Affiliations

While the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was Waite's primary Hermetic lodge, he was also associated with other esoteric groups:

1. The Fellowship of the Rosy Cross:

   • Waite was a member of this society, which focused on Rosicrucianism, a spiritual and cultural movement that arose in Europe in the early 17th century.

2. The Theosophical Society:

   • Although not a central figure, Waite had interactions with members of the Theosophical Society, which sought to explore mystical and occult philosophies.

3. The Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia (SRIA):

   • This is a Rosicrucian society intended for Master Masons and focused on the study of mystical and philosophical subjects.

Legacy and Impact

Waite's involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn significantly influenced his approach to mysticism, symbolism, and the occult. His dedication to creating a tarot deck that was rich in esoteric meaning led to the development of the Rider-Waite Tarot, which remains one of the most popular and widely used tarot decks today.

Conclusion

Arthur Edward Waite was primarily affiliated with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a key Western Hermetic lodge that profoundly shaped his esoteric teachings and the creation of the Rider-Waite Tarot. His contributions to and experiences within this organization are evident in the depth and symbolism of his tarot work, bridging traditional Hermetic principles with practical divinatory tools.

As previously stated, the Lemniscate, the horizonal 8 as symbol of the 0=2, a symbol often associated with infinity, is also a symbol of the unbroken line between the male and female forces of this universe and is shown above the head of the human figure on the RWS-Strength and Magician cards.

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The lion symbolizes raw, primal energy and desires. It also signifies courage and strength. The woman's ability to hold the lion without fear represents the mastery of these energies.

In numerology, the number 8 is often associated with concepts of power, ambition, and material success. It is considered a highly influential and dynamic number with both positive and challenging attributes.

Key Characteristics:

1. Ambition and Leadership:

   • Individuals influenced by the number 8 are often natural leaders. They possess a strong desire to achieve their goals and are driven to attain positions of authority and influence.

2. Financial Acumen:

   • The number 8 is closely linked to wealth and financial prosperity. People under its influence tend to have a keen sense for business, investments, and money management.

3. Efficiency and Organization:

   • Efficiency, organization, and a practical approach to problem-solving are hallmarks of the number 8. These individuals excel in structuring systems and processes to achieve optimal results.

4. Karma and Balance:

   • In numerology, 8 is associated with karma, representing the principle of cause and effect. It emphasizes the importance of balance between the material and spiritual realms.

5. Resilience and Determination:

   • The number 8 embodies resilience, persistence, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Individuals influenced by this number often display remarkable determination in the face of challenges.

Challenges:

• Workaholism:

  • A strong focus on career and material success can sometimes lead to neglect of personal relationships and well-being.

• Rigidity:

  • The pursuit of goals may result in rigidity and an inability to adapt to changing circumstances or perspectives.

• Power Struggles:

  • The desire for control and authority can lead to conflicts and power struggles with others.

Gematria

Gematria is a traditional Jewish system of assigning numerical value to a word or phrase, based on its letters. The number 8 in gematria carries various symbolic meanings and is often associated with concepts of abundance, eternity, and balance.

Key Associations:

1. Infinity and Eternity:

   • The number 8 resembles the infinity symbol (∞) when turned sideways, symbolizing endlessness and eternal cycles.

2. Balance and Harmony:

   • In gematria, 8 represents balance between the spiritual and material worlds. It signifies the harmony achieved when these realms are in equilibrium.

3. Regeneration and Renewal:

   • The number is linked to cycles of renewal and transformation, reflecting the continuous process of growth and regeneration.

4. Abundance and Prosperity:

   • 8 is often associated with abundance, wealth, and the successful manifestation of desires and intentions.

5. Divine Order:

   • In some interpretations, 8 signifies divine order and the manifestation of higher spiritual principles in the material world.

Examples in Hebrew Gematria:

• חַי (Chai) - "Life":

  • The Hebrew word "Chai" (חי) means "life" and has a gematria value of 18 (1 + 8 = 9), but the number 8 itself can symbolize the duality and balance inherent in life.

• חָכְמָה (Chokhmah) - "Wisdom":

  • While "Chokhmah" has a different numerical value, the number 8 can still be connected to the wisdom needed to balance material pursuits with spiritual understanding.

Symbolic Uses:

• Rituals and Celebrations:

  • The number 8 appears in various Jewish rituals and celebrations, emphasizing themes of renewal, covenant, and divine connection.

• Architectural Significance:

  • In sacred architecture, the number 8 may influence design elements to reflect balance and harmony.

Comparative Insights

While both numerology and gematria assign profound meanings to the number 8, their contexts differ:

• Numerology focuses on personal traits, life paths, and individual energies associated with numbers. Here, 8 emphasizes personal power, success, and the balance between material and spiritual pursuits.

• Gematria delves into the symbolic and mystical significance of numbers within language, particularly Hebrew. The number 8 symbolizes eternity, balance, and the manifestation of divine principles.

Understanding the multifaceted nature of the number 8 across these systems can provide deeper insights into its influence on personal development, spiritual growth, and the interpretation of sacred texts.

Cultural Significance of Number 8

Beyond numerology and gematria, the number 8 holds varied meanings across different cultures:

• Chinese Culture:

  • The number 8 is considered highly auspicious, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. It is often associated with good fortune and success.

• Christianity:

  • The number 8 can represent new beginnings, resurrection, and regeneration, aligning with the concept of renewal after chaos.

• Buddhism:

  • The Eightfold Path is a fundamental teaching, outlining the path to enlightenment and ethical living.

Understanding these cultural perspectives can further enrich the interpretation of the number 8 in both gematria and numerology.

Conclusion

The number 8 is a powerful and multifaceted symbol in both numerology and gematria, embodying themes of balance, abundance, authority, and eternal cycles. Whether interpreted through the lens of personal development or mystical tradition, the number 8 offers profound insights into the interplay between the material and spiritual aspects of existence.

In numerology, the number 8 is often associated with traits such as ambition, power, authority, material success, and balance. It is considered a number of achievement and accomplishment. People influenced by the energy of the number 8 are often seen as determined, goal-oriented, and capable of handling challenges with resilience.

In gematria, which is a form of Jewish mysticism that assigns numerical values to letters, the number 8 is represented by the Hebrew letter Chet (ח). In gematria, Chet (pronounced Chai) is associated with life and vitality. The idea is that life is a continuous, cyclical process, similar to the infinite loop of the lemniscate (∞) I discussed in the Magician Card-Key 1. The concept of Chai (חי), meaning "life" in Hebrew, is often connected to the number 18, which is a multiple of 8 and is considered especially auspicious in Jewish culture.

While there are some overlapping themes, it's important to note that numerology and gematria are distinct systems with different cultural and mystical traditions. The interpretation of the number 8 can vary based on the specific context and system being used.

The Animal Totem Tarot -Key 8-Strength illustrates the proverbial Ox of strength, desire, courage and inner control. Here is the image of the proverbial statement, "Strong as an Ox" which originated from the fact that an Ox can carry twice its weight and, in this picture, it is carrying a large load. However, there is more to strength than brute force as there is emotional strength, mental strength, and the famous or infamous strength of courage.

In various spiritual and cultural traditions, animals serve as powerful symbols, embodying specific traits, lessons, and energies. The Ox, in particular, holds significant meaning as a power animal, spirit guide, and totem animal. Understanding its symbolism can provide insights into personal growth, strengths, and life paths. Below is an in-depth exploration of what the Ox represents in these contexts:

1. Ox as a Power Animal

A power animal is a spirit animal that embodies qualities you can draw upon for strength, guidance, and personal development. When the Ox appears as a power animal, it symbolizes:

Key Characteristics:

1. Strength and Endurance:

   • The Ox represents immense physical and mental strength. It encourages resilience and the ability to persevere through challenges without giving up.

2. Hard Work and Diligence:

   • Symbolizing dedication, the Ox emphasizes the importance of persistent effort and commitment to achieving goals.

3. Stability and Grounding:

   • As a grounding force, the Ox helps anchor you, providing stability in times of uncertainty and promoting a balanced approach to life.

4. Patience and Determination:

   • The Ox teaches patience, showing that success often requires time and sustained effort. It encourages steadfastness in pursuing long-term objectives.

5. Reliability and Dependability:

   • Emphasizing trustworthiness, the Ox inspires you to be dependable in your relationships and responsibilities.

Guidance from the Ox:

• Embrace Discipline: Incorporate structured routines and disciplined practices to achieve your aspirations.
• Cultivate Resilience: Develop the ability to withstand hardships and recover from setbacks with strength.
• Foster Patience: Recognize that meaningful achievements often take time and require sustained effort.

2. Ox as a Spirit Guide

A spirit guide is an animal or entity that provides wisdom, protection, and direction on your spiritual journey. When the Ox serves as a spirit guide, it offers:

Key Messages:

1. Embrace Simplicity:

   • The Ox encourages living a life grounded in simplicity and practicality, focusing on essential needs over material excess.

2. Balance Between Work and Rest:

   • It teaches the importance of balancing hard work with adequate rest, ensuring sustained productivity without burnout.

3. Connection to Nature:

   • The Ox fosters a deeper connection to the natural world, promoting harmony with the environment and appreciation for its rhythms.

4. Moral Integrity:

   • Upholding strong ethical standards and integrity is a central lesson, guiding you to act with honesty and honor.

5. Community and Cooperation:

   • The Ox emphasizes the value of working collaboratively, fostering strong community ties and mutual support.

Practical Applications:

• Mindful Living: Practice mindfulness to stay present and appreciate the simplicity of everyday moments.
• Ethical Decision-Making: Make choices that reflect your moral values and contribute positively to your community.
• Sustainable Practices: Engage in activities that support environmental sustainability and respect for nature.

3. Ox as a Totem Animal

A totem animal serves as a symbol of your identity, guiding your personal and spiritual development throughout your life. When the Ox is your totem animal, it signifies:

Personal Traits:

1. Determination and Ambition:

   • You possess a strong drive to achieve your goals, coupled with the ambition to excel in your endeavors.

2. Practicality and Pragmatism:

   • Your approach to life is grounded in practicality, making you adept at solving real-world problems efficiently.

3. Responsibility and Dependability:

   • You take your responsibilities seriously, often becoming the pillar of support for others in your community or family.

4. Calm and Composed Nature:

   • You maintain a calm demeanor, even in stressful situations, allowing you to navigate challenges with grace.

5. Loyalty and Commitment:

   • Loyalty is a defining trait, as you are committed to your relationships and causes you believe in.

Life Path and Purpose:

• Building and Sustaining: Your life's work often involves building structures, whether physical, emotional, or societal, and sustaining them over time.
• Mentorship and Leadership: You naturally take on roles that involve guiding and mentoring others, leveraging your reliability and wisdom.
• Personal Growth Through Effort: You understand that personal growth comes through sustained effort and are willing to put in the necessary work to evolve.

Symbolic Representations:

• Agricultural Prosperity: Often associated with farming and agriculture, symbolizing growth, nourishment, and the fruits of labor.
• Cultural Significance: In various cultures, the Ox is revered for its role in agriculture, symbolizing prosperity, fertility, and strength.

Cultural and Mythological Perspectives

The Ox's symbolism varies across different cultures and mythologies, enriching its representation as a power animal, spirit guide, and totem animal.

Chinese Culture:

• Zodiac Sign: The Ox is the second sign in the Chinese Zodiac, representing diligence, dependability, strength, and determination.
• Symbol of Prosperity: It is considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity, often associated with hard work leading to success.

Hindu Mythology:

• Nandi: In Hinduism, Nandi the Bull is the mount of Lord Shiva, symbolizing strength, fertility, and righteousness.
• Sacred Animal: The Ox is revered as a sacred animal, embodying service and dedication.

Ancient Egyptian Culture:

• Apis Bull: The Apis Bull was worshipped as a manifestation of the god Ptah, symbolizing fertility and strength.
• Symbol of Power: Bulls were seen as powerful creatures, representing kingship and authority.

Practical Ways to Connect with the Ox as a Power Animal, Spirit Guide, or Totem

1. Meditation and Visualization:

   • Meditate on the qualities of the Ox, visualizing its strength and resilience to internalize these traits.

2. Journaling:

   • Keep a journal to reflect on how the Ox’s characteristics manifest in your life and areas where you can embody its strengths.

3. Nature Walks:

   • Spend time in environments where Oxen are present or explore agricultural settings to deepen your connection.

4. Symbolic Decor:

   • Incorporate Ox imagery into your living or working space as a reminder of its guiding principles.

5. Rituals and Offerings:

   • Create personal rituals that honor the Ox, such as planting a garden to symbolize growth and dedication.

Conclusion

The Ox serves as a profound symbol in spiritual and cultural contexts, embodying traits of strength, perseverance, and reliability. Whether viewed as a power animal, spirit guide, or totem, the Ox encourages individuals to embrace hard work, maintain stability, and foster harmonious relationships. By understanding and integrating the Ox's symbolism, you can enhance your personal growth, navigate challenges with resilience, and cultivate a balanced and purposeful life.

The primary meaning of this card is to stay focused on self-power and you can overcome any challenge. You just need to Know Thyself!

In this Military Industrial Complex, which indoctrinates by dividing and conquering via the use of media controlled "word hypnosis" and the false gods of religion, we have forgotten our inner spiritual being and its strength by dividing our spirit from our bodies as if spirit were an achievement of the flesh rather than the Willed- Spiral of energy animating us as Life. Because of this divisionism we have become automatons of our environment who are "knee jerks" of reaction instead of the powerful positive active expression of I AM ME who changes environment by the vigorous power of Presence; Strength of Being. I AM Love! I AM the Spirit's Will to Be! I AM Spirit! I AM Mind! I AM Body! The Body is our Sacred Place.

When the RWS or Animal Totem Key -8 Strength card is thrown during a reading, it means the querent:

• Is relying on spiritual powers to manage the situation at hand and is receiving the strength to overcome. 
• Following one's own inner light, doing what their "heart of heart". inner self, says is right.
• There can be an experiencing of a "gut level" driving force, instinctual and compelling for protection or survival.
•  Also, possessing the courage of one's convictions.
• The strength of Passion, in Higher Nature, is power, courage, energy, action and magnanimity.
• One is experiencing the Law of Self-Domination, self-rule, and self-control.
• Resort to magic.
• The use of Magical power.
• Showing compassion and tenderness towards one's animal nature, thereby making oneself whole. 

If reversed, it implies:

• Weakness
• Lack of sexual fulfillment.
• Depression.
• Aggression, perversion, and addiction because of repressed instincts.

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