The Tarot of Eli 2: Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot- Ten of Cups & The Animal Totem Tarot - 10 of Cups

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The Tens imply, fixed, culminated, completed Force and the Rider-Waite-Smith card concentrates its imagery on the phenomena that all happiness comes from the above. Hence the rainbow band of Cups. This concept is opposed to the mundane belief that "Accumulation of Things" makes one happy. The idea here is that Happiness created us as it's material expression, rather than the gathering of material makes us happy which is what the adults are thinking.

However, when observing a child playing, one may understand that happiness is what we are, not what we seek. This was well expressed in the Nag Hammadi Library, a Gnostic Text where Jesus Christ is quoted as saying (Gospel of Didymos Judas Thomas): "Let the seeker seek until he finds, for when he finds he shall become troubled. When he becomes troubled, he shall become astonished! When he becomes astonished, he shall know that he is ruler over the All."

When we seek happiness outside of ourselves by accumulation of things, titles, or people, after time, we become troubled, for what we thought was happiness, just becomes mundane and mediocre at best. What the seeker finds is that they are what they always sought. After this realization, one begins looking inward, and after being truthful to themselves, they become astonished! For within is the fulfillment of the One who began this universe as "I Will Be", which created the One Mind of I AM (recognition of existence) and after we dig through all the mental trash of our man-made worded identity, we find the glowing Sun of the I Am within, who is now happy and content, for it is now "I AM Being", a fulfillment of the Original Will ! We now understand that we are the One who is All, reflecting upon itself as a "Me".

The Animal totem Tarot -10 of Cups displays a loving scene of family life amongst the wealth of material security that is represented as a arch of 10 golden cups. Here the loving Penguin couple of the 2 of Cups card have created a beautiful life for themselves and their children. Hence, this card implies there is great joy in your family life and relationships. You are now in a period of happiness and harmony. The Penguin is noted for community support, that helps them survive the harshest of environments and displays balance of emotions, learning self-love and self-care which expresses a real happiness that comes from a sense of a belonging connection with others. They walk out of the artic darkness into the light of community. Therefore, this is a card of happiness, harmony, and balance achieved for yourself and those around you.

The Penguin as a Totem Animal, Spirit Guide, and Power Animal

Characteristics of the Penguin

Totem Animal:
The penguin, as a totem animal, embodies adaptability, community, and balance. Penguins thrive in some of the harshest environments on Earth, making them symbols of resilience and resourcefulness. They are adept at navigating dual elements—water and land—reflecting the ability to bridge the conscious and subconscious realms. Those with the penguin as a totem are often strong team players, valuing unity and collective effort.

Spirit Guide:
When the penguin appears as a spirit guide, it brings lessons of patience and cooperation. Penguins teach the importance of working together to overcome challenges and the value of loyalty and dedication to family or a cause. Spiritually, they encourage you to dive deep into your emotions (the water element) while staying grounded in reality (the land element). Penguins also symbolize spiritual evolution, showing that growth often comes through persistence and trust in the process.

Power Animal:
As a power animal, the penguin offers the energy of focus, determination, and emotional depth. It can guide you through transitions, particularly when navigating emotional or spiritual changes. Penguins remind you to remain steadfast in your purpose, even in adverse conditions, and to find joy in small, everyday accomplishments. They also encourage a balanced approach to life's responsibilities and play.

Invocation Ritual for the Penguin as a Power Animal and Spirit Guide

This ritual is designed to connect with the penguin's energy for guidance, support, and empowerment. Very useful when you wish to come out of the darkness of a solo journey and step into the light of community.

Materials Needed:

• A white and black candle (symbolizing the penguin's natural colors and balance of opposites)
• A small bowl of water (representing the penguin's aquatic realm)
• A feather or an image of a penguin
• A clear quartz crystal (for clarity and adaptability)
• Optional: Soft ocean or water sounds for ambiance

Steps:

1. Preparation:
   Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. Cleanse the area with incense or sage to remove any lingering negative energies.

2. Create Sacred Space:
   Arrange the materials on an altar or flat surface. Place the bowl of water at the center, the black candle to the left, and the white candle to the right. Lay the feather or penguin image in front of the bowl, and hold the quartz crystal in your dominant hand.

3. Grounding:
   Sit comfortably and take several deep breaths. Visualize roots extending from your body into the Earth, anchoring you firmly in the present.

4. Lighting the Candles:
   Light the black candle first, saying:
   "I call upon the grounding energy of the land, the strength to endure, and the wisdom to adapt."
   Then light the white candle, saying:
   "I call upon the fluidity of water, the courage to dive deep, and the clarity to rise above."

5. Invocation Chant:
   Hold the quartz crystal over the bowl of water and recite:
   "Penguin of the frozen seas,
   Guide of balance, steadfast and free.
   Teach me patience, wisdom, and care,
   Help me thrive through life’s wear and tear.
   Show me how to swim and soar,
   To find harmony at my core.
   Penguin spirit, I call to thee,
   Share your gifts and walk with me."

   Visualize a penguin approaching you from a shimmering icy landscape, bringing its energy into your aura. Feel its presence as a steady, calming force.

6. Meditation and Message:
   Close your eyes and meditate on the penguin’s energy. Ask any specific questions or simply remain open to insights. Pay attention to images, thoughts, or feelings that arise.

7. Closing the Ritual:
   Thank the penguin spirit for its guidance:
   "Thank you, penguin, for your wisdom and strength. I honor your presence and will carry your teachings in my journey."
   Extinguish the candles and pour the water onto the earth or into a plant as a symbolic offering.

8. Integration:
   Keep the quartz crystal with you as a reminder of the penguin’s energy. Reflect on any insights you received and look for ways to incorporate the penguin’s lessons into your daily life.

By connecting with the penguin as a power animal, you invite its wisdom, balance, and resilience into your spiritual practice and life path.

In gematria and traditional numerology, the number 10 carries significant symbolic meanings, both in traditional Jewish mysticism and in broader Western Hermetic esoteric traditions. Here's an overview of its characteristics:

Jewish and/or Qabalistic Gematria

1. Divine Order and Completion:

   • The number 10 is associated with completeness and perfection, representing the full range of human experience and divine order. This is evident in the Ten Commandments, which encapsulate the moral and spiritual laws.

2. Sefirot/Sephiroth:

   • In the Kabbalistic/Qabalistic Tree of Life, there are ten Sefirot/Sephiroth (emanations), each representing different aspects of the divine and the creation. These Sefirot/Sephiroth form a structure that maps out the path from the divine to the material world.

Western Hermetic Esotericism

1. Tarot:

   • The tenth card in the Major Arcana is the Wheel of Fortune, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life, fate, and destiny. It reflects the concept of change and the wheel of karma.

2. Numerology:

   • In numerology, 10 is reduced to 1 (1 + 0), which is often associated with new beginnings, leadership, and potential. However, as 10, it retains the essence of completion and the return to the beginning.

Symbolism

1. Unity and Duality:

   • The number 10 embodies both unity and duality. It starts with 1, representing unity and the divine, and ends with 0, representing potential and the infinite. Together, they symbolize the unity of creation and the return to the source.

2. Pythagorean Perspective:

   • Pythagoreans regarded 10 (the Tetractys) as the perfect number, representing the sum of the first four numbers (1+2+3+4=10). This sum signifies harmony and the foundational structure of the universe.

Cultural and Historical References

1. Ten Plagues:

   • In the biblical narrative, the ten plagues of Egypt symbolize divine intervention and judgment, leading to the liberation of the Israelites.

2. Ten Days of Repentance:

   • In Judaism, the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time for repentance and reflection, emphasizing the importance of spiritual purification.

Conclusion

The number 10 in gematria is rich with meanings, symbolizing completeness, divine order, and the unity of creation. Its characteristics span various esoteric traditions, reflecting both the end of a cycle and the beginning of a new one.

Western Hermetic Qabalistic Tradition places the 10 of Cups Tarot cards with the Planet Mars in the house of Pisces. When Mars, the planet of action, assertion, and energy, is in the dreamy and sensitive sign of Pisces, it creates an interesting blend of energies. Here are some characteristics of Mars in the house of Pisces:

1. Subtle Expression of Energy: Mars in Pisces tends to express its energy in a more subtle and indirect manner compared to its placement in more assertive signs. Individuals with this placement may not always confront situations head-on but instead prefer to navigate them with a more gentle and intuitive approach.

2. Sensitivity and Empathy: Pisces is a deeply empathetic and compassionate sign, and Mars here imbues the individual with a heightened sensitivity to the emotions and needs of others. They may possess a natural ability to understand and empathize with people's struggles, making them excellent listeners and counselors.

3. Creative Energy: Mars in Pisces infuses the individual with a creative and imaginative spirit. They may excel in artistic pursuits such as music, poetry, dance, or visual arts, using their creativity as a means of self-expression and emotional release.

4. Idealism and Spirituality: Pisces is a spiritual and idealistic sign, and Mars here can infuse the individual with a strong sense of idealism and a desire to make a positive difference in the world. They may be drawn to humanitarian causes or inspired to fight for justice and equality.

5. Tendency Towards Escapism: While Mars typically represents action and forward movement, in Pisces, it can sometimes lead to a tendency towards escapism or avoidance of confrontation. Individuals with this placement may struggle with asserting themselves directly, preferring to retreat into their inner world or engage in activities that provide an escape from reality.

6. Sacrifice and Selflessness: Mars in Pisces may manifest as a willingness to sacrifice personal needs for the greater good or for the sake of others. They may be selfless in their actions, putting the needs of others before their own and finding fulfillment in acts of service or compassion.

7. Vulnerability and Sensitivity to Criticism: Pisces is a sensitive and impressionable sign, and Mars here can heighten the individual's vulnerability to criticism or harsh treatment. They may struggle with asserting boundaries and standing up for themselves, preferring to avoid conflict whenever possible.

Overall, Mars in Pisces blends the assertive energy of Mars with the sensitive and empathetic qualities of Pisces, resulting in individuals who are compassionate, creative, and spiritually inclined, but who may also struggle with assertiveness and boundaries. Learning to harness the creative and compassionate energy of this placement while also asserting oneself when necessary can lead to a fulfilling and balanced expression of Mars in Pisces.

The 10th Sephiroth on the Tree of Life MALKUTH is Earth or the physical world. Malkuth is called- KINGDOM, which is also called the Active Word and/or Assiah. It is the lone Sephira of this World. In the other Worlds of the Qabalistic Tree of Life, there are planes of 3 Spheritic points, a ternary of Intelligent energy composing a triangle, but Assiah/Malkuth stands alone just like Kether (Keter), for it is the completion of all the other States of Energy Conscious. This is because The Kingdom is the Only Sensual Activity of Creation and fulfills the "I Will Be" of Kether. In Malkuth the Will of Eheieh (God name of Kether that means "I Will Be") is made manifest as Being. Hence, the goal of the entire Tree of Life is achieved through you.

Now I know this sensual intimacy may seem beyond the flesh to the Initiate or aspirant who sensually experiences the "Inner Worlds" of the Tree of Life upon traveling "upward" through the Astral/Akasha of the Psyche. However, in "higher" states of consciousness, they often forget that the Mind is still "attached" to a Sensual body, and thus still intimately feel the conscious experiences. But to travel, the other Sephiroth without a body is to feel nothing at all!

There is only One Sense to The Collective Unconsciousness, which has evolved over millennial to become the sense of "I" (I AM) sight. All the "Five Senses" (There are only 5 senses when ignoring the other 28 senses) of the mundane body, are just evolutionary Transformations of that One Sense of the all-seeing "I". Thus, Self is all there is and all you'll ever see as it is the only "I". The Qabalist/Kabbalist understands that "I AM" is the truth of Self; but what I AM is, well... that is merely an assumption that we call "freedom of choice"; a freedom of thought that makes "me".

To those who practice the Mysteries or Ancient Wisdom, there are more senses "felt" than five. For some as many as ten, for a Tantric master as many as 33 but the meditative process for awakening is not for this blog to describe, so if you are interested in a greater Wealth of Sensuality....start your journey up the Tree while you still support a physical body, you'll find that you will practice Tantra Yoga along the way. Tantra is a Sanskrit word that means "To expand and liberate", while Qabalah is a Hebrew word that means, "Receiving" or "to receive". One can see how they go together, as receiving from the Greater Self, expands and liberates the Spirit-Mind-Body of the receiver. Hence, the practice of Qabalistic Tarot is a Tantric Rite. I recommend one gets the A Chakra & Kundalini Workbook, by Dr. John Mumford and learns to Temper their body for the inner Celestial fire of the Kundalini.

The name for One-Mind is I AM. Each of us has inherited that Mind of the Creatrix/Creator. As it is done above, by declaration, it is done below as a "Me". I AM... declares existence, what I AM declares itself to be by emotion/energy-in-motion becomes a manifestation we tend to call a "me". I AM Wealth, declares your manifestation as wealthy. I AM Poverty (I Seek), declares an impoverished manifestation and/or a "not having". Declarations focus energy-in-motion (emotion) hence, they produce the Law of Attraction, for the energy all around you and in you is now forced to move in the direction your thoughts emote.

By Declaring " I AM Wealth, I Am Health, I Am Wellbeing, I Am the Will and the Way, I own the Day" one is full of attractive and expansive things, as well as attracts them.

The message of the 10 of Cups, is that you have reached the highest level of happiness at this stage in your life, and it is finished as a phase. A new phase of your emotional life is now beginning as education never stops. Here a greater emotional control is produced as we now focus energy-in-motion on what "I AM" rather than "I Want".

WHEN THE 10 OF CUPS IS THROWN DURING A DIVINATION, IT IMPLIES:

• Emotional contentment, reached after strife.
• Happiness found internally.
• When motivated by love of being, the unfoldment of the highest wisdom.
• Experiencing an emotional relationship or psychic work that is stable and satisfying with awareness that soon it will be time to move on.
• The gift of bringing light and good cheer to others, simply by happily being yourself.
• The fulfillment of a desire of paramount importance and not necessarily what one wants.
• A happy community of family.

When ill defined by the surrounding cards or reversed, it implies:

• Sentimentalism. 
• Bathos.
• Inner emptiness.

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