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We welcome a new tarot deck to our blog today that is titled the Animal Totem Tarot created by the author Leeza Robertson and wonderfully illustrated by Eugene Smith.

The Animal Totem Tarot comes with the descriptive guide booklet and is readable and informative. Purchase information can be found on the link below or this wonderful Tarot can be found on Amazon.com/Tarot. Even though I supply a blog critique, however brief, I would recommend you purchase these cards and their accompanying book for deeper insights into both Leeza Robertson and Eugene Smith and Mother Earth, all are very remarkable people.

The Animal Totem Tarot-0/the Fool, explores the power of the natural. I know that many of our social egregore believe in the "super-natural": However, all is the Nature of the One Mind and/or the Divine Creative, hence all is Natural.

In spiritual and metaphysical traditions, Power Animals, Animal Guides (or Totems), and Animal Archetypes represent different aspects of animal symbolism and serve distinct purposes in guiding individuals along their spiritual journey. Here’s how they differ:

1. Power Animals

Power animals are spirits believed to lend strength, protection, or other specific qualities to individuals. Often seen in shamanistic practices, a power animal serves as a spiritual ally, providing energy and guidance, particularly in challenging times. Characteristics of power animals include:

• Personal Empowerment: Power animals offer direct support and energy to help individuals overcome challenges, fears, or obstacles.
• Connection Through Ritual: Shamans often call upon power animals during spiritual journeys or rituals to lend specific abilities or insights.
• Active Protector: Power animals are viewed as protectors, often accompanying individuals on their life journeys and giving them strength in difficult moments.
• Personal Interaction: Power animals may appear to individuals through dreams, visions, meditation, or encounters in daily life, guiding them in times of need.

In essence, power animals provide an empowering presence and are often temporary companions, helping individuals when they most need particular qualities, such as courage or resilience.

2. Animal Guides (Totems)

Animal totems, also known as animal guides, are often seen as lifelong companions that represent a person’s core identity, traits, and purpose. Unlike power animals, which can come and go, a totem animal tends to stay with an individual throughout their life and symbolizes core aspects of their personality or soul.

• Lifelong Connection: Totem animals are usually associated with an individual or clan from birth and act as continuous guides throughout their life.
• Reflection of Inner Qualities: A totem embodies qualities that resonate deeply with the individual’s personality or life purpose, symbolizing qualities they innately possess or aspire to develop.
• Cultural Significance: In many cultures, people belong to animal clans (e.g., Bear Clan or Wolf Clan), with the animal totem symbolizing the shared traits, skills, and responsibilities of the group.
• Spiritual Development: Totem animals support lifelong growth, teaching lessons and encouraging individuals to embody their attributes fully.

Totem animals serve as both a mirror to one’s inner self and a reminder of their core strengths and values, offering steady guidance and inspiration throughout life.

3. Animal Archetypes

Animal archetypes are universal symbols representing fundamental human qualities, behaviors, or life lessons. Rooted in collective unconsciousness, archetypes transcend individual experience, embodying energies that are universally recognizable across cultures and mythologies.

• Universal Symbols: Unlike personal totems or power animals, archetypes embody universal themes, such as courage (lion), transformation (butterfly), or wisdom (owl).
• Psychological and Spiritual Insight: Archetypes help individuals understand broad aspects of the human psyche or spiritual path, often reflecting deeper psychological truths and unconscious patterns.
• Mythological and Cultural Presence: Animal archetypes are present in myths, folklore, and religions, carrying meaning beyond the individual and tapping into shared cultural or spiritual symbolism.
• Guidance Through Life Themes: Rather than focusing on specific situations or individuals, archetypes offer insight into broader life themes. They help us understand universal life journeys and challenges we might face, encouraging awareness of human strengths and shadow sides.

For example, the wolf (dog) as an archetype might represent the lone journey of self-discovery, resilience, and instinct. This archetype can inspire individuals to explore independence and trust in their inner wisdom, regardless of whether they have a personal connection to the wolf.

Summary

• Power Animals: Temporary spiritual allies that offer protection, strength, or specific qualities, often in times of need or spiritual journeys.
• Animal Totems/Guides: Lifelong companions that reflect an individual’s core qualities or spiritual purpose, offering steady guidance and personal growth.
• Animal Archetypes: Universal symbols found across cultures and mythologies, representing broad human experiences, themes, and collective life lessons.

These distinctions highlight how different animal spirits work within one’s life: power animals help in specific moments, totems guide over a lifetime, and archetypes offer broader, universal insights into human nature and the spiritual journey.

Animal totems are symbolic representations of animals that embody certain qualities, powers, and spiritual meanings. Rooted in indigenous traditions worldwide, from Native American tribes to the ancient Egyptians and Celtic societies, the idea is that each animal possesses unique traits, strengths, and characteristics that guide, protect, or teach humans. Here’s an outline of how animal totems are viewed and interpreted across various traditions:

1. Symbolic Meanings

Each animal is thought to embody specific spiritual qualities. For instance:

• The Eagle: Represents vision, power, freedom, and insight, often associated with a higher spiritual perspective and connection to the divine.
• The Wolf: Symbolizes loyalty, leadership, intuition, and protection.
• The Bear: Embodies strength, introspection, courage, and often healing energy.
• The Owl: Known for wisdom, intuition, and a deep connection to hidden knowledge.

Each culture may interpret an animal's qualities differently, but the essence often relates to attributes that can guide or inspire a person.

2. Roles of Totems in Indigenous Spirituality

In many indigenous cultures, animal totems function as both spiritual guides and personal protectors. For example, Native American tribes often have clan animals, where the totem animal is seen as a shared spirit within the clan. This totem not only unites the group but also provides lessons on survival, balance, and relationship with nature.

3. Personal Connection and Identification

Totems can be seen as personal spiritual allies. In Native American culture, an animal totem may appear in dreams, visions, or through meaningful encounters in waking life, symbolizing that the individual has a unique connection with that animal's energy. Totems are often thought to reflect aspects of an individual’s inner nature or qualities they are developing, so a person might be drawn to different animals throughout their life depending on personal growth or life challenges.

4. Totem Animals in Ritual and Ceremony

Animals are often invoked in rituals to call on their unique qualities. For instance, someone might call on the bear’s energy for strength in a challenging situation, or the owl’s insight when seeking wisdom in decision-making.

5. Animal Totems in Shamanism

In shamanistic practices, spirit animals or power animals serve as spiritual allies, providing guidance, strength, and healing. Shamans often enter trance states to connect with these animal spirits, who can provide wisdom and support on spiritual journeys or when healing others.

In essence, animal totems are a profound way for people to connect with their inner world and with nature, reinforcing the idea of interconnection between all living beings.

I personally have experienced the animal power of nature as I spent 5 years in a black foot teepee on the open prairie of the High desert in Montana where I made my own drum of elk hide (one I hunted with a muzzle loader and ate) and ash wood and sat Infront of the nightly fire drumming up my Spirit. Soon I was visited by many different animals, including but not limited to, various insects, Salamanders, Mule deer, Horses, Bobcat, Porcupines, a family of Great Horned Owls, Bagers, and a Poor-Will-bird...all of which delivered a message of great significance.

However, the dog became my power and spirit animal, as the dog people just showed up at my teepee and stayed with me throughout my journey. I became one with the "spirit of the place" and like a dog, became a loyal companion to mother nature. I found the True Power of Self on this sabbatical with Mother Nature even a pregnant female blue healer found her way to me and moved in, gave birth and we raised her children together. That is the beauty of Mother Nature, she knows who will nurture and be loyal to her people.

In many traditions and cultures, the dog is considered both a power animal and a spirit guide. As a power animal, a dog is often seen as embodying qualities such as loyalty, protection, guidance, unconditional love, and companionship. When called upon in this role, the dog can help individuals cultivate these qualities within themselves and encourage a sense of protection and community.

As a spirit guide, the dog is often seen as a companion who assists people in navigating life's journeys, offering protection, and helping them remain grounded and loyal to their path. In Native American spirituality, the dog is seen as a helper and teacher, symbolizing loyalty and service to others. In Celtic traditions, the dog is viewed as a guardian of mysteries and often associated with the "Otherworld," guiding souls across spiritual thresholds.

Dogs as spirit guides can appear to help people with issues of trust, community, or protection, or to reinforce bonds of loyalty in relationships. They may show up in dreams or meditations to offer support, guidance, or a reminder of inner strength and friendship.

There is certainly great significance in this Animal Totem Tarot, and it is a Tarot deck that I am proud to work with. Earth is a great Lady, and her creations are not "lower beings", they are herself in expression.... something we all should pay great attention to. It also helps to remember that the homo sapiens body is an animal of earth (and Anunnaki GMO) and that we have come from the Stars to be the honored operators of one "in our name".

In traditional Tarot, the Fool card (represented by the number 0) often depicts a figure on a journey and ready to step into the abyss with a small dog at their side, here it is a Great Wolf. The presence of the dog/Wolf in the Fool card holds symbolic significance.

The dog is commonly seen as a loyal and faithful companion, symbolizing instinct, loyalty, and protection. In the context of the Fool's journey, the dog is considered a guide or guardian, accompanying the Fool on their heroic adventures. The dog or Wolf represents the instinctual aspects of the Fool's nature, providing a sense of companionship and support as they embark on the unknown path. A totem animal quide.

Additionally, the Fool card is associated with spontaneity, innocence, and a carefree attitude. The presence of the dog reinforces the idea that the Fool is stepping into the unknown with trust and openness, relying on their instincts and intuition rather than being held back by fear or hesitation.

Interpreting the Fool card with its accompanying dog can be a reminder to trust your instincts, embrace new beginnings, and approach life's journey with a sense of joy and spontaneity and take leaps of faith.

The wallet on the end of the carrying stick represents the Fool's memory. The White rose in his hand, represents purity.

In traditional Tarot symbolism, the White Rose held by the Fool in the Fool card carries its own set of meanings. The White Rose is a powerful symbol that adds depth to the interpretation of the card. Here are some interpretations associated with the White Rose in the context of the Fool:

1. Purity and Innocence: The white color of the rose often symbolizes purity and innocence. The Fool, carrying a White Rose, suggests a sense of untainted, childlike innocence as they embark on their journey. It represents a clean slate, free from preconceived notions or judgments.

2. Spiritual Awakening: White is frequently associated with spirituality and higher consciousness. The White Rose in the Fool's hand may signify a spiritual awakening or the pursuit of higher truths. The Fool's journey is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and transformative one.

3. Possibility and Potential: The White Rose can symbolize the potential for new beginnings and endless possibilities. It serves as a reminder that the Fool is at the threshold of a journey filled with opportunities and open to the myriad experiences that await.

4. Symbol of Hope: The White Rose can be seen as a symbol of hope and optimism. As the Fool steps into the unknown, the White Rose suggests a sense of hope and faith that the journey will be guided by purity of intention and positive energy.

5. Alchemy and Transformation: In some esoteric traditions, the White Rose is associated with alchemy and transformation. The Fool's journey is a transformative process, and the White Rose represents the alchemical potential for personal growth and evolution.

Rather than just being assumed as being mystical, trans-personal, transcendent, and ecstatic in its nature, the Fool represents the power of wonder and ecstasy that is so apparent in the incredibly young (and the “enlightened”) before they succumb to indoctrination and form a "cultural identity". The cultural identity is an egregore and is not real, so Qabalists call it "reality" which we all know as relative and subjected to the “I” of the beholder. The Real is the infinite part of ourselves that commands material into form as I AM. What "I AM" assumes itself to be has been called "Me". "Me" is always an assumption.

Dr. Arthur Edward Waite (1857-1942), the initiator of the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot, was not only a genuine scholar of Western Hermetic Occultism, he also was a world renown publisher. His published works included, The Holy Kabbalah and The Key to the Tarot, both first issued in England. Waite stated in The Key to The Tarot that; " The true Tarot is symbolism; it speaks no other language and offers no other signs."

Although the precise origin of Tarot cards in antiquity remains obscure. Court de Gébelin writing in Le Monde Primitif in 1781 advances the theory that Tarot cards are derived from an ancient Egyptian book, The Book of Thoth (a title A.Crowley took for his book and cards). Thoth was the Egyptian Mercury/Hermes, said to be one of the early Pharaohs and inventor of the hieroglyphic system. Gébelin asserts that it is from the Egyptians and Gypsies that Tarot Cards were dispersed throughout Europe. All of this is easily researched by the seeker.

The past 2 centuries are ripe with important works on the different aspects of Tarot cards; Gébelin (1781), Etteilla (1783), Levi (1854), Vaillant (1857), Mathers (1888), Papus (1889), Falconnier (1896), Wirth, Waite (1910) Thierens, Case, Crowley (1944), Gray (1960), Knight (1965), Moakley (1966), Doane (1967), and Kaplan (1970), just to name a "few".

Although initiated and supervised by Waite, the unique Tarot Deck known as the "Rider Deck" was hand crafted by Miss Pamela Colman Smith, an artist and fellow member of The Order of the Golden Dawn. Although born in Jamaica, by age 21 Miss Smith was established in England as a theatrical designer and illustrator. She collaborated with William Butler Yeats on stage designs and worked with William's brother, Jack Yeats on the illustration and publication of a magazine entitled The Broad Sheet before publishing her own magazine, The Green Sheaf which was filled with ballads, pictures, folk tales, and verses.

Most notable difference features of the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, as compared to earlier tradition decks is that all the cards, including the 40 minor arcana numeral cards (pips), are presented in emblematic designs, which are easily read in divination. This contrasts with the older more ridged forms of swords, batons, cups, and coins that were previously used.

Waite also believed that the O-Fool, should not be placed between the keys of 20 and 21, but that its more natural placement was before the Magician in attribution to the first letter of the Hebrew Alphabet-Aleph. He also transposed the numbers of 2 Major Arcana (Trump) cards: Strength (Force, Fortitude), frequently shown in other Tarot decks as Key XI but is shown in the Rider Deck as Key VIII. The Justice card, traditionally shown as Key VIII, is shown in the Rider deck as Key XI.

No matter which Tarot deck one prefers, one of the most fascinating aspects of Tarot Cards is their personal effect upon the person using them. Hindu Mystics have called these effects, as Siddhis- meaning "magic abilities". Hence, Tarot helps create more magic (K) and less tragedy in one's life.

The Macrocosm is a natural flow of evolutionary Self-Image, the human microcosm is how the Macrocosm experiences the Dream of Self and is able to be active and transformative in that dream. The Macrocosm is the "sleeping-dreaming Divine Creative". The human being is the active and transformative, Divine Creative who can be outside the Dream (awake consciousness) as "other than the dream" and thereby, transform it.

If you are looking for an easy path into spirituality, you won't find it in Tarot. For this is a "path less traveled", and/or a "Heros/Heroine's journey". This is simply because spiritual development is not brought on by external things. It is an inner growth towards reclaiming our Divine Inheritance and it is upon this principle that Tarot operates most effectively. Therefore, Tarot is not a toy. Nor a presentation on Hollywood based occultism. Rather, 2 main purposes are served by Tarot:

1. It preserves and transmits an esoteric teaching. 
2. It evokes specific mystical, intellectual, and emotional responses from the Inner Consciousness of the aspirant who has been taught how to understand it.

After all the great works about "Man know thyself". It is no longer a secret and exists as Occult Teachings that reveal the true nature of Homo Sapiens Sapiens, and their link to the Natural Universe and the inheritance of a mutual relationship with the Celestial-Self and The Universal Collective Unconscious who dreams of Being.

We know spiral and spirit came from the same Greek root word-spiro, which means "to breathe and/or breath" the "Fool" is Spirit and therefore the fool is the "Breath" (hence, all that breathes is of Spirit)- and symbolizes that which contains all the potencies of growth and development ; therefore, we can see that the 0 which carries this idea further. O is the symbol for egg and again symbolizes Life-Power and even the Orphic Egg which symbolizes the Universal Infinite Power of Life.

The Sun refers to the One Force (The One Energy that cannot be created nor destroyed, only transformed, and transmitted) that comes from all the Stars/Suns in the Multiverse.

The mountains pictured on the RWS Fool, represent the abstract mathematical conceptions which are behind all knowledge of Nature; hence, cold, and uninteresting to many. Like the melting snow feeds the creeks and rivers below so will the Ageless Wisdom of the Divine Creative feed your consciousness and make fertile your mental imagery; thereby transforming your life. I AM, is your True Existence, but what you think you are, is all assumption/i-magi-nation.

The Fool represents the eternal youth, which is Spirit/Soul. On Traditional Tarot cards this eternal youth is shown as he stands at the height of his power, and presenting an attitude of confidence, trust, and joyful aspirations. The wreath of Victory around his head also symbolizes the vegetable kingdom. The Wand is the Will of the Divine (I Will BE) and the wallet is Memory. The white rose represents purified desire.

On the Rider-Waite-Smith, Traditional Tarot, and B.O.T.A. cards, the unique garments of the Fool consist of a white undergarment and a black outer one which is lined with red. White is purity, truth, wisdom. It is covered in the black of ignorance and delusion which is lined with passion, action, and desire.

Not easily seen on the RWS Card is the girdle of 12 ornaments; by showing only 7, it represents Time-Space. Astrologers will find the contemplation of this next symbology of great interest. The wheels which ornament the outer garment are 8 spoked and they symbolize the whirling motion by which the One Force manifests itself (Will-to-Force). The little white dog represents the intellect of the body, the reasoning survival mind of the subconscious. It is a faithful companion but must have a master.

The Animal Totem Tarot -0/The Fool, artistically emphasizes embarkation on a new journey, producing new potentials and requiring a leap of faith. The innocence and strength of this spiritual Hero is shown by its leap of faith, as it leaves the baggage of the past behind and jumps over the restriction of past, all of which is necessary to observe the moment of time you are in. As the leaping grasshopper, we must all be heroic enough to leave our comfort zones and go forth!

The grasshopper totem carries symbolism around intuition, courage, patience, and adaptability. When the grasshopper appears as a totem, it may encourage individuals to take leaps of faith, trust their instincts, and move forward even when the path isn’t fully visible. Here are some key characteristics often attributed to the grasshopper as a totem animal:

1. Leap of Faith

The grasshopper is known for its impressive ability to leap great distances, symbolizing boldness and the courage to make significant changes. As a totem, it encourages people to trust their instincts, even if it means moving away from comfort zones or familiar situations.

2. Intuition and Inner Voice

Grasshoppers are thought to be highly sensitive to vibrations in their environment, which translates symbolically to sensitivity to intuitive insights. People drawn to the grasshopper totem often have strong intuition, and the totem encourages them to listen to their inner voice when making decisions, rather than relying solely on logic or overthinking.

3. Patience and Timing

Grasshoppers act only when the timing is right, symbolizing patience and an ability to wait for optimal conditions. The totem reminds people of the importance of timing and suggests taking action only when they sense that conditions are favorable.

4. Forward Motion and Progress

The grasshopper only moves forward, never backward. As a totem, it encourages progressive thinking and a mindset focused on growth and development. Grasshopper people may find that they are naturally forward-thinking, preferring to focus on what’s ahead rather than dwelling on the past.

5. Adaptability and Flexibility

Living in diverse environments, grasshoppers are adaptable, able to thrive in a range of conditions. As a totem, the grasshopper teaches resilience, reminding people to be open to change and adaptable in various situations. This adaptability often aids in maintaining balance in both peaceful and challenging circumstances.

6. Creativity and Innovation

In some cultures, the grasshopper is associated with creativity and unique approaches. The grasshopper totem might inspire those it guides to think outside the box, finding innovative solutions to obstacles or approaching projects with a creative flair.

7. Spiritual Growth and Transformation

Grasshoppers undergo several transformations throughout their lives, so as a totem, they may signify periods of spiritual or personal growth. This totem often appears during times of significant change, helping individuals transform by shedding old patterns and embracing new ways of being.

The grasshopper, as a totem animal, is often seen as a guide for those embarking on new journeys, encouraging them to trust their instincts, stay adaptable, and embrace the power of well-timed leaps forward.

When thrown in divination the RWS and the Tarot of the Sacred Kingdoms-Fool - cards imply:

• Folly.
• Mania.
• Extravagance.
• Intoxication.
• Delirium.
• Frenzy.
• Naiveté.
• Innocence.
• Lunacy.
• (All of which lead to the Mystery of Dionysus. Where extremes of intoxication and ecstasy lead to Higher Mind)
• New journeys.
• Time to take a leap of faith.

If reversed:

• Negligence.
• Absence.
• Distribution.
• Carelessness.
• Apathy.
• Nullity.
• Vanity.

Thank you for your interest, comments, and supportive donations. May you live long and prosper.