The Tarot of Eli-2, LLC: The Animal Totem Tarot- Key 1-The Magician & Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Key 1-The Magician.

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To better explain some of the Western Hermetic Qabalistic symbology of the Magus/Magician card I shall briefly explain the Magician using the Thoth Magus card as it displays the Hebrew letter-Beth and the astrological assignation of Mercury to the Magus/Magician card.

The Magus or Magician is the path of Beth, meaning House, and is between Kether (Crown) and Binah (Understanding) on the Qabalistic Tree of Life, making it the transition (Phallus) path of the One Undefined Energy, and the Great Organizer, Mother Binah. Therefore, the relationship between the Magus and Binah is one that establishes the meaning of house, Beth, as that of the dwelling place (Womb-Temple) where Spirit resides before "falling" into manifestation. Hence, the assignation of Mercury -the messenger of the will to the Magus card.

Also shown on the Thoth Card is the egg of Akasha (egg with wings) and/cosmic egg. Binah-the 3rd Sephiroth who is connected to the Primal Will by the Magus/Magician is where egg of Akasha gestates after it is stimulated by the "I Will Be" and/or "First Vibration" (serpent force) of the Father.

The Orphic Egg, a symbol from Orphic cosmology, represents the origins of the universe and the birth of all life. The serpent coiled around it is a powerful symbol with layered meanings.

1. Union of Male and Female Energies: The egg itself is often seen as a feminine symbol, representing potentiality, creation, and nurturing. The serpent is frequently viewed as a phallic or masculine symbol. Together, they symbolize the unity and balance of masculine and feminine forces, essential for creation and growth.

2. Eternal Cycle of Life and Death: The serpent around the egg represents the Ouroboros, a symbol of cyclicality, infinity, and the interconnectedness of life and death. By encircling the egg, it signifies that all creation (the egg) emerges from, and returns to, the cyclical, self-renewing nature of the cosmos.

3. Protection and Containment of Primordial Power: The serpent serves as a guardian, protecting the egg, which contains the primordial essence of all things. This mirrors themes in other traditions, such as the Cosmic Egg in Hermeticism and the World Egg in various mythologies, where creation is kept dormant until the time of manifestation.

4. Spiritual Awakening and the Evolution of Consciousness: In the context of spiritual ascension, the serpent also symbolizes Kundalini energy, which ascends through the chakras, awakening divine consciousness. The egg represents latent potential, and the serpent coiled around it shows the spiritual force contained and ready for activation. This can also connect to the Orphic Mysteries, which aimed to elevate initiates' consciousness toward a divine, transcendental state.

In sum, the Orphic Egg with the serpent entwined around it encapsulates the ideas of cosmic creation, balance of dual forces, cyclical existence, and the protection of divine potential. This powerful image serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness and eternality of life, as well as the potential for spiritual awakening within each soul.

In this case, it is appropriate to call the Magician/Magus that which builds the House. In other words, the Magus/Magician directs and encloses the One Spirit (Spiral Energy-Vital Life Force)) in an expression of primal will-to-be. The whole of spirit moves towards a force full flow and that is the Fool card. Both the Magus/Magician bring the message of the Divine Will of Eheieh (meaning-"I Will Be") from "above to the below".

The flow of energy becomes force in the Fool's journey to and from Chokmah-will-to-force and onto Binah-will-to-form, as the Path of Daleth on the Tree of life. Hence, we can see that the Supernal Triangle of Kether-Chokmah-Binah is the Trinity of Will that is the One.
 

The Supernal Triangle of Kether, Chokmah and Binah is represented by Tarot Cards whose activities are only separated by a degree or less. Thus, the Aspects of the Magus/Magician and the Fool are intricately linked. For those who wish a glaring example of this degree of Separation it is about as much as the Testes and Phallus are separated in a human male, albeit the One Great Being is not a person (Note* to a Qabalist a "Being" is an Immortal Intelligent Energy").

The planetary meaning of the card is Mercury.

The implication of The Magician is that of a Messenger (Mercury) of the Gods, who with focused will is able to concentrate his mental power, thus utilizing his knowledge. Here Knowledge focused, gives birth to action and manifestation. He is the channel through which Divine Will manifests in the physical world.

Although I use the Thoth Tarot in my professional Tarot readings and Teach Master Tarot Classes using the Thoth Tarot (It is the most informative Western Hermetic Qabalah deck). I began my readings using the B.O.T.A. (Builders of the Adytum) tarot cards of Paul Foster Case and the Rider-Waite-Smith Traditional Tarot Decks.

Tarot philosophy is based on the premise that the True Universal Collective Mind doesn't use language to communicate; rather it communicates in image and/or symbolism. Since it is the True Parent of your Soul, it behooves one to use proper communication techniques to make their life more "magic" and less tragic" than the common herd. In other words, Tarot aids one in claiming their Universal Inheritance as a Celestial Being.

The imagery in both the Rider-Waite-Smith and many traditional tarot decks are the same, although there are subtitle differences especially in animal tarot cards although all the magicians' tools are still shown. The title of Magician/Magus refers to humankind's ability to direct the force by which one transforms their consciousness, thereby reaching the stage Metaphysicians, Western Hermetics's, Parapsychologist, and Occultist call initiation.

The number 1, which is often symbolized as "the point", which means concentration, will, attention, and/or a limiting of the field of activity. Simply put, this is an activity of focus that every aspirant and fox absolutely must learn if they wish to seek the "Truth of Self". Until one learns to concentrate and focus on their Vital Life Force, they cannot perform the Great Work of "As above so below" and thereby turn dreams of unprofaned Self into living reality.

On the Animal Totem Tarot-the Magician/fox is showing intense focus on something beneath the surface of the snow.

When a fox leaps into the air and focuses intently on the snow below, this behavior is called "mousing" or "mousing leap." Foxes, particularly in winter, use this technique to hunt small animals like mice, voles, and other rodents that burrow beneath the snow. This hunting method involves the fox leaping and diving into the snow to break through the surface and capture hidden prey.

Interestingly, research suggests that foxes are not only relying on their keen sense of hearing but may also be using the Earth's magnetic field to help align their pounce. This behavior showcases the fox’s acute senses and its extraordinary adaptability in hunting within various environments.

The wise know that desire is the motivation of or for evolution. Willful direction of desire builds all things. This is the central doctrine of Western Hermetic Magic since each of us is the "bridge between" the above and below." That is, a bridge between the Macrocosmic Mind and the Microcosmic mind. A person cannot even begin to use the subtle forces of nature until they realize they can do nothing of themselves but simply act as the Channel of the Primal Will of the One ("I Will Be") through which the "Will to Form" and the "Will to Force", i.e., the Will of Life Force expresses itself as "I AM".

The eternal union the masculine and feminine forces are shown the lemniscate (0=2) on most magician and magus cards and the Animal Totem Tarot is no exception. Above the head of the RWS Magician and the pouncing fox is a "horizonal figure eight" and/or the lemniscate which is shown as a flurry of snowflakes in the shape of this infinity symbol above the fox's bent neck.

The fox representing the Magician is an interesting choice. The fox as a totem, power animal, and spirit guide carries themes of intelligence, adaptability, and heightened perception. Known for its cunning and quick-witted nature, the fox represents the ability to navigate complex situations with agility and resourcefulness. Here’s what the fox embodies in each of these aspects:

Totem Animal

As a totem animal, the fox symbolizes the innate qualities within those who resonate with its energy. Fox people are often highly observant, able to notice subtle details that others overlook, and possess a natural talent for adapting to change. Their sly intelligence often lends itself to creative problem-solving, humor, and charm. The fox totem calls individuals to embrace cleverness and find unconventional solutions in their daily lives.

Power Animal

When called upon as a power animal, the fox aids in situations that require quick thinking, agility, or stealth. The fox’s energy is a powerful ally for those needing to outmaneuver obstacles, avoid negative influences, or strategically approach a challenge. Its presence offers protection through discernment, helping one see what others cannot and make choices with precision. Fox as a power animal encourages trust in one’s own cleverness and ability to “move unseen,” allowing someone to avoid trouble or handle difficult scenarios without drawing attention.

Spirit Guide

As a spirit guide, the fox appears to guide someone toward a deeper understanding of their surroundings and their own intuitive abilities. Foxes are often associated with heightened awareness and intuition, symbolizing guidance in tuning into one's instincts and the hidden mysteries of life. The fox spirit guide encourages openness to new ways of seeing the world, finding beauty and meaning even in ambiguity, and navigating transitions with grace. Often appearing in times of change, the fox spirit guide can help smooth transitions and highlight the importance of flexibility and awareness of subtle clues around us.

Symbolic Attributes of the Fox

1. Adaptability and Survival: Foxes thrive in diverse environments, teaching resilience and flexibility.
2. Perceptiveness and Intelligence: Known for keen senses and clever problem-solving, the fox helps in sharpening mental acuity and intuition.
3. Cunning and Wit: Embodying cleverness, the fox reminds us that not every obstacle requires brute strength—sometimes, cleverness and discretion are the best strategies.
4. Mysticism and Trickster Energy: In many cultures, foxes are tricksters, holding hidden knowledge or bearing messages from the unseen world. This mystical quality connects foxes with shapeshifting and unseen realms, making them a bridge between ordinary reality and higher awareness.

In essence, the fox as a totem, power animal, and spirit guide teaches adaptability, intuitive awareness, and clever navigation of life’s mysteries, urging those it guides to embrace their inner wisdom and see beyond the obvious. These are all obvious talents necessary to be a good magician.

Unlike the Thoth Magus card, the traditional Magician's tarot card usually exhibits a granite table that stands in for the element of earth and/or manifested Life on which are laid his magical tools of wand, sword, cup, and the pentacle.

The Animal Totem Tarot actually uses the earth as the table, covered in the white snows of winter. The white snow symbolizes a "tablecloth "of purity. The flaring red cloak of individuality surrounds a traditional Magician card, the fox wears one as well, as it is the color of his fur coat which protects the animal as it masters the elements. As stated, the bright white lemniscate (horizonal figure eight) above his head, is the symbol for infinity and the flow of the united forces of female and male divinity and/or the 0 (cosmic egg)=2.

Aleister Crowley's equation 0=20 = 20=2 is a metaphysical concept he presented to explain his understanding of duality, unity, and the nature of existence within the framework of Thelema. While at first it might seem nonsensical mathematically, Crowley’s intention was to convey deep philosophical and mystical insights, particularly through the lens of Qabalistic and Thelemic thought. Let’s break down the essence of this equation:

1. Unity in Duality

• In Crowley's interpretation, the universe emerges from nothingness (0) into a state of duality (2). This mirrors the Qabalistic concept of creation where the boundless, undefined state (Ain, or Nothing) "splits" into duality to create existence. By equating 0 with 2, Crowley illustrates that duality—such as the pairs of opposites (light and dark, male and female, etc.)—all originate from a singular, undivided source.
• Crowley saw the initial act of creation as the manifestation of duality from a unified, undivided state. The "nothingness" or zero becomes "two" by manifesting itself as dual but complementary principles. This explains why he equates nothingness (0) with the emergence of complementary aspects (2).

2. The Illusion of Separation

• The concept also suggests that separation or duality is illusory. In truth, all things remain connected to the original unity (the zero state) despite appearing as distinct entities in the material world. This connects to Crowley’s mystical assertion that all things are one, and any experience of difference is merely a temporary phase or perspective within unity.
• The illusion of duality is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Crowley used 0=2 to remind initiates that despite apparent separations or distinctions in the physical world, all things are ultimately facets of a single, indivisible reality.

3. Spiritual Alchemy and the Role of the Magician

• Crowley often described the magician’s path as transcending duality and returning to unity, symbolized by the journey back to zero or the boundless state. The magician, through this perspective, reconciles opposites within themselves to achieve a state of unity.
• In this sense, 0=2 serves as both a formula for creation and an alchemical principle: the adept must recognize and balance the dual aspects of nature and spirit, eventually realizing that they both arise from and return to the same source.

4. Qabalistic Interpretation

• In the Qabalistic Tree of Life, "0" can be seen as Ain Soph, the limitless, formless aspect of existence beyond even Kether, the first emanation. "2" corresponds to Chokmah, the first true separation of force and form into male and female principles. Therefore, by equating 0 and 2, Crowley is aligning with the Qabalistic idea that all manifested existence begins as a duality emerging from the undifferentiated source.

5. Thelemic and Taoist Parallels

• Crowley’s ideas often parallel Eastern mysticism. The equation 0=2 resonates with Taoist principles, where Tao (the formless unity) gives rise to Yin and Yang, the primal duality. This duality in turn fuels all creation while remaining a reflection of the original oneness. In Thelema, 0=2 emphasizes that the duality we perceive in life and the cosmos is ultimately just an expression of the one undivided source—reminiscent of the Hermetic axiom, “As above, so below.”

In sum, Crowley’s equation 0=20 = 20=2 encapsulates his understanding of the mysterious and paradoxical nature of creation. It underscores that from the Void (Nothing), all forms of duality emerge, yet duality itself is an illusion—a dynamic play of opposites rooted in a single, indivisible essence.

1. The fox magician's upright wand (in the snow) symbolizes the ability to direct natural Phallic forces and the red ribbon fluttering on it, represents the force of Fire and element with which a magician/magus symbolically works. The wand illustrates the ability that is known as the Hermetic axiom of "That which is above is as that which is below". This is also known in the Zen of Tao as " If it is here, it is there, and if it is there, it is here. If it is not here, it is not there, and if it is not there, it is not here."
2. The horizonal 8 (The Lemniscate), over the fox magician's head represents, dominion, strength, and control while also being the symbol for infinity that is called the lemniscate (Greek for-Ribbon) in Western Magic.
3. The magician's  face/muzzle pointed down to the ground in a gesture of concentration. 
4. On the Rider-Waite-Smith card, the black hair bound with a white band, symbolizes the limitation of ignorance by knowledge. On the Fox the black fur on the legs and the white underbelly fur represents this limitation.
5. The red robe/fur represents action and desire (information becomes in-form-action).
6. On the Rider-Waite- Smith Card, the White undergarment, representing wisdom is encircled with a serpent that symbolizes eternity; Ouroboros, the serpent that eats its own tail. There is also a white undergarment on the Foxes fur.
7. The altar is made of granite or in the fox's case, is the earth itself and is covered with the magician's tools, which represent Fire (Wand), Air (Sword), Water, (Cups) and Earth-(Pentacle). 

The garden and/earth are the subconscious aspect of the personality, which is cultivated by the acts of attention of the self-conscious and/or awake conscious -self. From this ageless garden spring all powers of the subconscious and/or animal survival mind, of which the Fox is a perfect representation.

The Animal Totem Tarot-Key 1-The Magician exemplifies the ability to use the senses/tools one has to polish his magic abilities. For both the fox and the magician know, that by willful focus of the senses (the body has 33 senses) they can find the unseen, where real magic(k) happens.

In medical science, the concept of human senses goes well beyond the traditional five (sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell). Research has identified up to 33 distinct senses, which are specific systems or types of sensory perception, allowing humans to experience and interpret the world in complex ways. These senses include various specialized receptors and processes that help us maintain balance, perceive temperature, sense pain, and more. Here’s a breakdown of these categories:

1. The Traditional Five Senses

• Sight (Vision): Detection of light and color through the eyes.
• Hearing (Audition): Perception of sound through vibrations in the inner ear.
• Taste (Gustation): Detection of chemicals through taste buds on the tongue (sweet, salty, sour, bitter, umami).
• Smell (Olfaction): Detection of airborne chemicals through olfactory receptors.
• Touch (Tactile): Sensing pressure, vibration, and texture through receptors in the skin.

2. Additional Specialized Senses

Beyond the classic five, there are additional senses focused on different types of perception:

• Temperature Sensing (Thermoception): Specialized receptors that detect temperature changes on the skin.
• Pain Sensing (Nociception): Detection of potential harm or damage to tissues, with receptors for physical, thermal, and chemical pain.
• Balance (Equilibrioception): Managed by the vestibular system in the inner ear, allowing us to detect body position and maintain balance.
• Proprioception (Body Position Awareness): Awareness of where body parts are in relation to each other, enabling movement coordination.
• Chronoception (Time Perception): Our sense of the passage of time, regulated by complex neural processes.
• Interoception: Sensing internal states, including hunger, thirst, and the need to breathe.

3. Internal Sensations (Interoceptive Senses)

These senses keep us aware of various physiological states, often functioning below conscious awareness but critical for homeostasis:

• Hunger and Thirst: Internal cues from hormones and cellular signals.
• Breathing Regulation (Chemoreception): Sensing levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood.
• Bladder Fullness: Detection of bladder distension signaling the need to urinate.
• Stretch Receptors: Detecting stretching in muscles, tendons, and joints.
• Heart Rate Awareness (Cardioception): Subconscious awareness of heartbeat, which can come to conscious attention.

4. Skin and Surface Senses

The skin contains a variety of receptors that detect specific stimuli:

• Vibration Sense: Specialized receptors in the skin for detecting vibrations.
• Itch: Receptors specifically activated by histamines and other itch-inducing chemicals.
• Light Touch (Mechanoreception): Sensitivity to light pressure, often associated with tickling sensations.
• Pressure: Deeper skin receptors sense sustained pressure on the skin.
• Pain (Nociception): Different from touch, this involves specific pain receptors.

5. Chemical Senses

• Taste Beyond the Basic Five: Researchers have found receptors for fat and potentially for carbonation, beyond the traditional taste categories.
• Internal Chemoreception: Detects levels of chemicals in the blood, such as glucose, influencing feelings of energy or lethargy.

6. Other Less-Known Senses

These senses are specialized and may overlap or work in conjunction with the more prominent senses:

• Electroreception: While not fully developed in humans, our nervous system has a minimal response to electrical fields. The Foxes electroreception is more sensitive and allows the fox to sense rodents beneath the surface of the snow.
• Magnetoreception: Some research suggests humans might have a residual ability to sense magnetic fields, although this is still a topic of study.

Each of these senses allows us to gather unique information about our internal and external environments, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of reality and supporting a vast array of biological processes crucial for survival. This extended view of human senses highlights the incredible complexity of sensory systems and helps explain how we can interpret a world that’s rich in varied stimuli.

The Magus/Magician and Fox knows that their physical body is the greatest magic(k) device every invented. It is the beautiful combination of fire (wands)-air (swords)-water (cups)-earth (disks/pentacles). Hence, the human body is the altar on/in which the Magician places the tools of magic.

When the Magician/Magus is thrown in a divination it implies:

• Assertiveness.
• Self-Realization.
• Activity.
• Strength of Will.
• Vital energy.
• Command over the subconscious and Unconscious.
• Drive.
• Impetuous.
• Energy.
• Bringing lofty dreams down into reality.

If reversed:

• Aggressiveness.
• Egotism.
• Misuse of power.
• Mental disease.
• Disquiet.

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