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The Gold Foil Tarot- Four of Wands
As always true to the Rider-Waite-Smith and its Gold Foil equivalent in the Tarot Minor Cards leave out the more detailed image explanations of the occult meanings that are presented on the Thoth Cards. Depicted on both the Rider-Waite-Smith 4 of Wands, and The Gold Foil Tarot-Four of Wands, there are 4 staves implanted in the ground topped with garland of flowers. This implies fertility, fecundity, and strength. The number 4 is a number implying completeness and power. Also on this card, are 2 female figures uplifting nosegays or flowers and at their side is a bridge over a moat, leading to an old manor house. This implies wealth and security. The Nosegay is usually given as a present, so here is also a picture of a sharing of the wealth. Normally a 4 is a closed system, where one is secure by closing off the "outside" with 4 strong walls, such as shown in the imagery of the of the Thoth 4 of wands arrangement. However, on the Rider-Waite-Smith Card, there is a bridge over a mote and the 4 Wands/Staves, seem to be more of an arbor than an enclosure, implying a willingness to be "open minded".
The Tarot of the Old Path- 4 of Wands
In the Four of Rods, we see a family scene and each one is dressed in colors reminiscent of fire. The Woman is dressed in ermine trim, which signifies comfort and wealth, as does the well-fortified family home shown off in the distance.
Linking his father and mother to him, are two ash rods held by the child. The Mother holds a rod shaped into a besom, a symbol of a witch. The fourth Rod is a pitchfork handle, which is held by the man, a symbol for a male witch.
Behind the woman's skirt, is seen the head and shoulders of a tri-colored collie dog, symbolizing, in the language of animals, faithfulness to his family and they to each other.
The imagery of the card suggests family spirit, wealth and a well-established home and family life. The medieval dress suggests romance, and the scene is of tranquility and harmony. The Ash rods held by the child are sprouting leaves which implies the vital fiery force of life, which is the Alchemical fire-element of this card.
Since Tiphareth the 6th Sephira, named Beauty on the Qabalistic Tree of Life represents the Soul, the 4 of wands/Rods also declares the Soul's ability to do its work on the earth plane. However, projects of the 4 of wands/Rods are never entirely without risk, although they seem to always turn out favorably. This is a fiery passion, and such energy can push one too forcefully causing resources to become overextended and a loss of profession could result.
As for the Gold Foil- Tarot-Four of Wands, the implied meanings are easily seen on the Cards imagery. The castle walls or the house behind the couple on the Connolly card imply security and those outside the walls are at some risk as they seek an order without walls, to freely enjoy the fruits of one's labors.
When the Four/4 of Wands card is thrown in a divination, it implies:
- Country life.
- Repose.
- Concord.
- Harmony.
- Prosperity.
- Peace.
- The perfected work of the above.
When the Four/4 of wands is reversed:
- The meanings remain unaltered:
- Increase.
- Felicity.
- Beauty.
- Embellishment.
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