The Tarot of Eli 2: Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot-King of Cups & The Animal Totem Tarot- King of Cups

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The Rider-Waite-Smith, King of Cups, is depicted as seated on a heavy granite throne that floats effortlessly on the Sea representing the currents of the Universal Collective Unconscious. The solar yellow and red outer cloak, covering the blue water colored inner robe relates to the natural union of water and sun (fire). The crown of the throne that is in the shape of a peacock's tail in full fan, and along with the garish coloration of the Kings remnants and crown, relates to the wisdom of the peacock god (eyes on may dimensions) bestowed upon the ever-watchful king who holds both scepter and cup in his hands.

The Thoth Tarot-Knight of Cups also displays the Peacock God who is often associated with various myths and esoteric traditions, symbolizes divine beauty, spiritual enlightenment, and cosmic knowledge. Its most notable representation is in the Yazidi tradition, where the Peacock Angel, Melek Taus, plays a central role. Here's an elucidation of its significance across different traditions:

1. Yazidi Tradition: Melek Taus

• Role: Melek Taus, the Peacock Angel, is the chief of the Seven Holy Angels in Yazidism. He is a manifestation of divine will and the intermediary between humanity and the Divine.
• Myth: According to Yazidi creation stories, God created Melek Taus from His own light and tasked him with bowing to no one but the Creator. When Adam was created, Melek Taus refused to bow, affirming his loyalty to God—a narrative often misinterpreted as rebellion.
• Symbolism: The peacock represents pride, not in arrogance but in the divine spark within all creation. Its vibrant feathers symbolize the diversity and beauty of the cosmos.
• Misunderstanding: Over time, Melek Taus was wrongly equated with the devil in Abrahamic traditions, leading to persecution of the Yazidi people.

2. Hindu Mythology: Mayura (Peacock)

• Associations: The peacock is sacred in Hinduism and associated with deities like Saraswati (wisdom and learning) and Kartikeya (war and victory).
• Symbolism: It represents immortality, protection from evil, and divine beauty. In some interpretations, the peacock's multicolored plumage signifies the many facets of cosmic energy.
• Legends: In certain tales, the peacock is said to dance joyously during rain, symbolizing the soul's celebration of spiritual blessings.

3. Alchemical and Esoteric Traditions

• Peacock's Tail (Cauda Pavonis): In alchemy, the "peacock's tail" refers to a stage in the Magnum Opus (Great Work), where vibrant, iridescent colors appear during the transformation of base matter into gold. It signifies spiritual enlightenment and the unity of opposites.
• Hermeticism: The peacock represents the mystic ascent of the soul and its alignment with divine wisdom.

4. Middle Eastern and Ancient Symbols

• Mesopotamian Influences: In ancient Mesopotamia, peacocks were associated with royalty, beauty, and divine protection. They were often depicted in royal art.
• Islamic Mysticism: In Sufi poetry, the peacock occasionally symbolizes the soul's yearning for the divine and its journey through stages of purification.

5. Peacock as a Symbol in Western Occultism

• Christian Esotericism: The peacock is sometimes linked to resurrection and immortality due to its association with the incorruptibility of its flesh in early Christian lore.
• Thelema: In Aleister Crowley’s Thelemic symbolism, the peacock can represent the dynamic energy of creation, the splendor of the divine, or the evolving self.

Conclusion

The Peacock God or symbolism of the peacock transcends cultures, representing a bridge between the material and divine. Whether through the reverence of Melek Taus, the spiritual metamorphosis in alchemy, or its connection to beauty and wisdom in Eastern traditions, the peacock embodies transformation, enlightenment, and divine manifestation.

In the background of the Rider-Waite-Smith-King of Cups the fish leaping and the ship sailing, depict how thought and the fiery spiritual vessel of Will are stimulating the sea of mind and emotions as waves of motion representing thoughts that are emoted. This wave action becomes obvious when one understands that e-motion is energy-in-motion. Which in Qabalah we call, "Will-to-Force".

The fish pendant around his neck depicts the Alchemist's "first Material" (Prima Materia), which we may call "thought" and/or the stimulation of the "Astral Fluid" of imagination as liquid material that becomes manifested by the observation principle into coagulated form. Thoughts become ideas by association with similar thoughts, much like the combination of fractals which become an "idea" that is emoted into life by energy-in-motion: idea propelled into manifestation by willpower. Hence, the Kings are expressions of Chokmah, the second sephiroth who is "Will-To-Force".

The Animal Totem Tarot -King of Cups depicts a scene of one of nature's great builders. The Beaver is noted for its ability to create and change its environment, building a brand new eco system just by being itself. Hence, the beaver is truly a king of cups who is master of the watery world; he knows how to channel the energy of water (emotions) to create whatever outcome he chooses.

Hence there is a caveat here, especially in business practices as one may allow fear to creep into daily business practices. Be aware that these fear-based survival thoughts will impact your function and cost you your goals in the long run.

It's easy for a King of Cups persons to get what he wants but he must understand that his manipulation of emotions must honor all who are involved---not just himself.

The traditional Tarot- King of Cups was often compared to an emotionally manipulative Bardic persona that can also be so emotionally focused on his goals that he can start manipulating those around him. Hence, he must be aware of this propensity and moderate his emotional constructs. In Medieval times, bards were regarded as magical people as their song and music stimulated strong emotional reactions in the listeners.

In medieval times, bards were often regarded as magical or mysterious figures because of their unique role as storytellers, musicians, and keepers of oral traditions. Their art and knowledge connected them to the realms of the unseen and the divine, imbuing them with an almost otherworldly aura. Several cultural, mystical, and historical factors contributed to this perception:

1. Bards as Custodians of Sacred Knowledge

• Oral Tradition: Bards preserved history, myths, and genealogies through song and poetry. In a largely illiterate society, their ability to recall vast amounts of information made them seem almost superhuman.
• Esoteric Wisdom: Bards often had access to knowledge of ancient lore, symbols, and spiritual teachings. This wisdom, sometimes passed down in secretive ways, gave them an aura of mysticism.
• Connection to Deities: In Celtic traditions, bards were seen as being inspired by gods or muses, such as the Irish deity Brigid, associated with poetry, or the Welsh Awen, the divine flow of inspiration.

2. Mastery of Sound and Words

• Magical Speech: Words were often seen as inherently magical in many medieval cultures. The bard’s ability to craft spellbinding tales or compose poetic verses gave them power over emotions and even events, akin to spellcasting.
• Music as Enchantment: Bards were skilled in playing instruments like the harp or lyre, which were believed to have magical properties. In Celtic mythology, for example, the harp of Dagda could make listeners laugh, cry, or sleep, depending on how it was played.
• Healing Songs: Some bards were believed to use music and poetry for healing, further associating them with mystical powers.

3. Role in Rituals and Magic

• Ceremonial Roles: Bards often participated in rituals and ceremonies, acting as intermediaries between the mortal and divine realms. They invoked blessings or curses through their art, reinforcing the perception of their magical capabilities.
• Connection to Druids: In Celtic cultures, bards were closely linked to the druids, the priestly class who practiced magic and divination. While bards focused on storytelling, their association with druids lent them a shared mystical status.
• Prophetic Powers: Some bards were seen as seers who could foretell the future through divinely inspired poetry or visions, akin to oracles.

4. Cultural Mystique and Secrecy

• Travelers and Outsiders: Bards often traveled between courts and regions, bringing with them tales of distant lands and strange customs. Their itinerant lifestyle made them mysterious figures in more insular communities.
• Guardians of Mystery: They were often the only link between the common people and the mysterious past, including myths of gods, heroes, and magical beings. This made their art seem like a gateway to otherworldly realms.

5. Mythological and Folkloric Influence

• Legendary Bards: Figures like Taliesin in Welsh mythology and Amergin in Irish tradition were portrayed as profoundly magical. Taliesin, for instance, was said to have mystical powers of transformation and prophecy.
• Magical Ancestry: Bards were sometimes depicted as descendants of divine or magical beings, reinforcing their connection to the supernatural.

6. Symbolism in Medieval Cosmology

• Harmony with the Universe: In medieval thought, music was tied to the concept of the "music of the spheres," where harmony was seen as a divine force that held the cosmos together. Bards, as creators of harmony, were perceived as having a special connection to the cosmic order.
• Agents of Transformation: Through their art, bards could inspire, heal, and change perceptions, giving them a role akin to alchemists of the soul.

Conclusion

Bards were not only entertainers but also preservers of sacred traditions, spiritual guides, and cultural alchemists. Their skill with words, music, and lore placed them at the crossroads of the material and spiritual worlds, making them figures of magic and mystery in medieval society. Their legacy continues to influence modern interpretations of storytelling, music, and the mystical power of art. The King of Cups is a fair representation of a Medieval Bard in his ability to control emotions for the purpose of reaching a goal.

What is noteworthy of the element of water and the connection between water and fish in this tarot card is that of mystery and alchemy of the Magnum Opus (the great work).

In Western Hermetic magic, the fish symbol holds several mystical and symbolic meanings, drawing from various cultural and religious traditions. Here are some interpretations of the mystical symbology of the fish symbol in Western Hermeticism:

1. Christian Symbolism: In Christianity, the fish is a powerful symbol associated with Jesus Christ. It has roots in the story of the miraculous multiplication of loaves and fishes, as well as in Jesus' call to his disciples to become "fishers of men." In Hermeticism, the fish may symbolize spiritual abundance, divine providence, and the call to spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

2. Pisces in Astrology: In astrology, the sign of Pisces is represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions, tied together by a cord. This symbolizes the duality and interconnectedness of earthly and spiritual realms. In Hermetic magic, the fish may be used to invoke the qualities associated with the sign of Pisces, such as intuition, empathy, and spiritual sensitivity.

3. Alchemy: In alchemy, the fish is sometimes used as a symbol of transformation and the journey of the soul towards enlightenment. It may represent the process of spiritual purification and the quest for the Philosopher's Stone, which symbolizes spiritual perfection and immortality.

4. Water Element: The fish is often associated with the element of water, which represents the subconscious mind, emotions, and intuition. In Hermetic magic, water is seen as a purifying and transformative force, and the fish may symbolize the deep wisdom and hidden truths that lie beneath the surface of consciousness.

5. Fertility and Abundance: In some cultures, the fish is a symbol of fertility, abundance, and prosperity. It is often associated with the feminine principle and the nurturing aspects of the divine. In Hermeticism, the fish may be used to attract blessings and prosperity into one's life, as well as to invoke the creative powers of the subconscious mind.

Overall, the fish symbol in Western Hermetic magic carries a rich tapestry of meanings, encompassing themes of spirituality, transformation, intuition, and abundance. Its mystical significance can vary depending on the specific context and tradition within which it is used.

Shown on the gold crown of the Rider-Waite-Smith King of Cups is a symbol of this trustworthy romantic, are hearts (roses) which are symbols for love and passion.

In the language of flowers, red roses and red hearts have a deeply symbolic meaning, primarily associated with love and romance. Here are some of the key symbolic meanings attributed to red roses:

1. Love and Passion: Red roses are perhaps most famously known for symbolizing romantic love and passion. They convey deep emotions and affection, making them a popular choice for expressing love and desire.

2. Romance and Devotion: Red roses are often given as a token of romance and devotion, representing the depth of one's feelings for another person. They are commonly exchanged on special occasions such as Valentine's Day, anniversaries, and romantic milestones.

3. Desire and Longing: The vibrant red color of roses is often associated with intense emotions, including desire and longing. Red roses can convey a sense of longing or yearning for someone special.

4. Courage and Respect: In addition to their romantic connotations, red roses can also symbolize courage and respect. They may be given as a gesture of admiration or to show appreciation for someone's strength and resilience.

5. Sacrifice and Commitment: In some contexts, red roses may also symbolize sacrifice and commitment. They represent the willingness to give and sacrifice for the sake of love, as well as the enduring nature of true love and commitment.

Overall, red roses are rich in symbolism and are widely recognized as a timeless expression of love, passion, and romance in the language of flowers.

Because of Patriarchal indoctrinated rule of our cultures, it is proper to think that Male came first, and that Female came latter. This argument is also because of our short-sighted animal physical perspective on sexuality, where big strong stud is seen as better than soft small female (who is internally stronger than male). The startling fact to some, is that if you produce the idea of Male, then you produce the idea of Female simultaneously. There is no male concept without the concept of female and vise verse. So, the argument of who came first is invalid when talking about the Divine Creative and/or the Supernal Triangle. It is a trinity and/or plane of simultaneous Will of I Am, seen as the "superconscious' and/or the Supernal Triangle.

Chokmah is the second Sephirah and thus is also the force behind the Kings and the four Deuces. The Personification of that force is represented in the four Kings of traditional and Knights in Western Hermetic Thoth Tarot. In other words, Chokmah's Will-to-Force, is at its most concentrated and dense elemental form on Earth.

The Will-to-Force (Chokmah) and the Will-to-Form (Binah) united produce the Will - To - Be, i.e. The Divine Creative, which is the way of saying the mating of I and Am produces the idea of Being "Me", which when "made manifest" is a "me" and/or an assumed personality.

When working with Western Hermetic concepts our indoctrinated concepts of sexuality need adjustment before we can understand the One Energy that made itself Two and/or 0=2. This is an image called the lemniscate where the symbol of 0=2 is shown by the horizonal figure eight: a magical symbol of Western Hermetic Magic. This union is an interface of energy-in-motion. (Will-to-Force, is energy emoted in passion, anger, aggression etc. Will-to-Form, is energy emoted into forms of nurturing, love, compassion, empathy, etc.)

The King of Cups is shown as Month and day of birth on the Tarot Personality birth wheel. Here is offered a significator for the core personality of a person and is not necessarily a masculine gender. In the Supernal, Will is not "male or female" it is the Will power that moves energy into force or form. Below is an example of this gender free persona.

The King of Cups in the Western Hermetic Tarot represents individuals born between February 19th and March 20th, corresponding to the last decan of Aquarius (19th–21st) and all three decans of Pisces. This card embodies qualities like emotional mastery, deep intuition, compassion, and creative expression balanced with an authoritative presence. Below are examples of personalities, both historical and contemporary, whose traits resonate with the archetype of the King of Cups:

Artists and Creatives

1. George Washington (Born: February 22, 1732)

   • Known for his calm and diplomatic leadership during the American Revolution and as the first U.S. president, Washington embodied the emotional steadiness and wisdom of the King of Cups. He balanced logic with compassion in leading a fledgling nation.

2. Albert Einstein (Born: March 14, 1879)

   • A revolutionary physicist and humanitarian, Einstein’s creativity and deep understanding of the universe align with the King of Cups’ mastery of unseen forces and intellectual fluidity.

3. Frédéric Chopin (Born: March 1, 1810)

   • A composer of deeply emotive and lyrical music, Chopin’s work reflects the King of Cups’ sensitivity and ability to channel emotion into artistry.

4. Elizabeth Taylor (Born: February 27, 1932)

   • An iconic actress known for her emotional depth and philanthropy, particularly in advocating for HIV/AIDS awareness. Her charisma and empathy exemplify the King of Cups’ compassionate leadership.

Spiritual and Mystical Figures

1. Edgar Cayce (Born: March 18, 1877)

   • Known as the "Sleeping Prophet," Cayce’s profound intuitive abilities and dedication to helping others spiritually mirror the archetypal traits of the King of Cups.

2. Saint Teresa of Ávila (Born: March 28, 1515, though close in energy alignment)

   • A mystic and reformer who offered spiritual guidance with wisdom, compassion, and dedication to her faith, embodying the King of Cups' depth of feeling and spiritual connection.

Visionaries and Leaders

1. Steve Jobs (Born: February 24, 1955)

   • Although controversial, Jobs’ ability to marry creativity with innovation and connect emotionally with consumers aligns with the King of Cups’ visionary qualities.

2. Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Born: March 15, 1933)

   • Known for her judicial wisdom, compassion, and advocacy for equality, Ginsburg balanced rationality with heartfelt concern for justice.

Musicians and Performers

1. Kurt Cobain (Born: February 20, 1967)

   • The lead singer of Nirvana, Cobain channeled intense emotions into his music, connecting deeply with audiences in a way that reflects the King of Cups' emotional mastery.

2. Rihanna (Born: February 20, 1988)

   • A global music icon and philanthropist, Rihanna’s ability to balance creativity, business acumen, and compassion for humanitarian causes echoes the King of Cups’ multidimensional nature.

3. James Taylor (Born: March 12, 1948)

   • A singer-songwriter known for his soothing music and empathetic storytelling, Taylor embodies the emotional resonance of the King of Cups.

Philosophers and Thinkers

1. Ralph Waldo Emerson (Born: May 25, 1803, though Pisces energy strongly influences his ideas)

   • While not strictly within this timeframe, Emerson's transcendental philosophy and emphasis on intuition resonate with the archetypal wisdom of the King of Cups.

2. Rachel Carson (Born: May 27, 1907)

   • Carson’s environmental work, infused with a sense of responsibility toward nature and humanity, channels the King of Cups' protective and nurturing spirit.

Conclusion

The King of Cups archetype is a fusion of emotional intelligence, creativity, and leadership. Those who align with it, whether through their Piscean or late-Aquarian traits, often leave a profound impact on the world by navigating the realms of emotion, intellect, and spirituality with balance and compassion.

Therefore, in Tarot, the Kings represent the most mature and developed personalities of their respective suits. Each King embodies authority, wisdom, and stability, The King of Cups is reflecting the pinnacle of experience and understanding empathetic, diplomatic, and must be in control of his/her emotions or uses them to manipulate others.

When the King of Cups is thrown during a divination, it implies:

• Issues of loyalty to family and friends.
• That the querent is an optimist.
• This person has attained their position of authority by action and is looking ahead into life.
• Listening to one's conscience, being guided by instincts and intuition and trusting one's impulses.
• The querent is releasing an emotional pattern that no longer serves them well.
• Creativity, imagination, and the ability to love.
• A caregiver, counselor, or priest.
• A lively imagination and one who can change one's moods at will. 
• A master of emotion who is empathetic but not manipulated by the emotions of others.
• The querent has the quality of irresistible force, underlying a calm surface.

If reversed:

• Dishonest.
• Double dealing man.
• Roguery.
• Exactions.
• Vice.
• Injustice.
• Scandal.

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