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The Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- 4 of Wands
As always true to the Rider-Waite-Smith represents the Tarot Minor Cards minimally leaving out the more detailed image explanations of the occult meanings that are presented on the Thoth Cards. Depicted on the Rider-Waite-Smith 4 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".
A flora nosegay, also known simply as a nosegay, refers to a small, fragrant bouquet of flowers. People often carry or present nosegays for various reasons, and the tradition has historical and cultural significance. Here are a few reasons for a flora nosegay:
Symbolism: Flowers are rich in symbolism, with each type carrying its own meaning. A nosegay can be crafted to convey specific sentiments or messages. For example, red roses may symbolize love and passion, while lavender represents calmness and devotion.
Expression of Sentiments: Nosegays are often given on special occasions or as gestures of affection. They can express love, friendship, congratulations, sympathy, or well-wishes, depending on the context and the flowers chosen.
Aesthetic Pleasure: The visual and olfactory appeal of flowers makes them a popular choice for creating pleasing arrangements. Nosegays are crafted not only for their symbolic meaning but also for the sheer beauty and fragrance they bring.
Historical Tradition: Throughout history, people have carried small bouquets of flowers to mask unpleasant odors, especially in crowded or less sanitary environments. This practice has evolved into the decorative and symbolic tradition of carrying or exchanging nosegays.
Weddings and Events: Nosegays are commonly used in weddings as small bouquets for bridesmaids or as decorative elements. They add a touch of elegance and can be coordinated with the overall theme or color scheme of an event.
Personal Adornment: Individuals may choose to carry a nosegay as a form of personal adornment, enhancing their appearance and exuding a pleasant fragrance. This tradition has been particularly prevalent in certain historical periods.
Superstition and Folklore: In various cultures, certain flowers were believed to possess protective or lucky qualities. Nosegays were sometimes carried for superstitious reasons, such as to ward off evil spirits or bring good fortune.
Overall, the use of a flora nosegay is a versatile and meaningful tradition that spans cultural, historical, and personal contexts, allowing people to communicate sentiments through the beauty and symbolism of flowers.
In the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot deck, the 4 of Wands card depicts a scene with four wands supporting an arbor of fruitful grapevines. This imagery is symbolic and holds several interpretations within the context of the card's meaning.
Celebration and Harmony: The 4 of Wands is often associated with celebrations, harmony, and joyous occasions. The arbor of fruitful grapevines can be seen as a symbol of abundance and the fruits of one's labor. It suggests a time of happiness, prosperity, and the fulfillment of goals.
Achievement and Completion: The four wands forming a stable structure represent a solid foundation and the completion of a project or a phase in life. This card may indicate that you have reached a significant milestone and can now celebrate your achievements.
Homecoming and Unity: The imagery can also signify a homecoming or a reunion. It may represent a period of unity, where people come together to celebrate shared successes and milestones. This could be related to family, friendships, or community.
Spiritual Symbolism: Grapes and grapevines often have spiritual connotations, symbolizing abundance, transformation, and the harvest of spiritual wisdom. The arbor can be viewed as a sacred space, suggesting that the celebration goes beyond the material realm and has spiritual significance.
Gateway to a New Phase: The arbor created by the four wands can be seen as a gateway or threshold to a new phase in life. Passing through the arbor may symbolize moving from one stage to another, with the assurance that positive energy and abundance will accompany this transition.
Overall, the 4 of Wands in the Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot deck is a card of celebration, achievement, and harmony. The fruitful grapevines under the arbor reinforce the idea of abundance and the joy that comes from reaching a significant point in one's journey. It's a positive and auspicious card that often signifies a time of happiness and communal celebration.
The Fairy Tarot - 4 of Spring
The Tarot- 4's all bring perfection, realization, completion, and making a matter settled and fixed.
The 4 of Wands and 4 of Spring are no exception, for here is the card that Crowley called the Lord of Perfected Work. As for "making a matter settled...". On the fairy tarot card are seen a happy couple dancing in a field of flowers. The castle is proof of their success and their dance is one of gratitude for the hard work both put into the completed manifestation of their united labor. He wears a necklace of daisies, and she wears a wreath of daisies in her hair.
In the language of flowers, also known as floriography, the daisy holds various symbolic meanings, and its interpretation can vary across cultures. Generally, the daisy is associated with innocence, purity, and simplicity. Here are some common meanings attributed to the daisy:
Innocence: The daisy is often seen as a symbol of innocence, representing a pure and untouched state. Its simple and unassuming appearance conveys a sense of childlike purity and simplicity.
Purity: Similar to innocence, the daisy is associated with purity and cleanliness. Its white petals are seen as a representation of untarnished virtue and a clean slate.
True Love: In some traditions, the daisy is considered a symbol of true love. The flower's white petals and yellow center are seen as a representation of the sun's rays, symbolizing the warmth and sincerity of genuine love.
Loyal Love: Daisies are also associated with loyalty and faithful love. Their enduring nature and ability to thrive in various conditions make them a symbol of steadfastness in relationships.
New Beginnings: The daisy's presence in meadows and fields during springtime associates it with the idea of new beginnings and the renewal of life. It symbolizes the start of something fresh and promising.
Optimism: The daisy's bright and cheerful appearance is often linked to the idea of optimism. It symbolizes hope, positivity, and the sunny side of life.
Secrets and Keeping Secrets: In some cultures, the daisy is linked to the idea of secrets and keeping them. This association may stem from the flower's closed petals at night, as if it is protecting or keeping something hidden.
It's important to note that flower symbolism can vary, and interpretations may differ based on cultural and historical contexts. The meanings mentioned here are common associations, but individuals or cultures may attribute additional or different significance to the daisy.
As for the Rider-Waite-Smith 4 of Wands, the implied meanings are easily seen on the Cards imagery. The castle behind the couple on the 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 4 of Spring /4 of Wands card is thrown in a divination, it implies:
- Country life.
- Repose.
- Concord.
- Harmony.
- Prosperity.
- Peace.
- The perfected work of the above.
- Perfection, realization, completion, and making a matter settled and fixed.
- Pride in your accomplishments.
- Celebrating life.
When the Four/4 of wands is reversed:
- The meanings remain unaltered:
- Increase.
- Felicity.
- Beauty.
- Embellishment.
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