III
The Empress
Symbols in the artwork
The wheat and pomegranates surrounding the throne, and the flowers show what grows with time. In flowing water, you can imagine continuous care, and in the decorated vase, you can observe the changes of nature. The Venus symbol on the heart-shaped shield symbolizes beauty and relationships. Do not interpret the lush image as meaning pregnancy or wealth. Read it as a depiction of taking care of your body and mind, and cultivating an environment where you can live comfortably with those close to you.
Sources and interpretation
The original work covers meanings such as fruition, action, and initiative, while the reversed covers the revelation of truth and hesitation. Modern interpretations have been referenced for the themes of abundance/care and excessive care/stagnation.
Written with reference to Rider–Waite–Smith symbolism and modern interpretations.
A. E. Waite's original text · A. E. Waite's symbolism · Tina Gong / Labyrinthos modern interpretation
Upright
Abundance and Vitality · Creation and Growth · Nurturing and Sensual Pleasure
Before trying to achieve more, take care of one thing that makes you comfortable.
Core meaning
The Empress symbolizes abundance, vitality, and the creation and growth of nurturing something. Nature, sensual pleasure, and warm care are also important meanings, and it does not definitively predict actual pregnancy.
The wheat and flowers in the picture require time to grow. There are times when we must care for what we do little by little and wait. Today, rather than increasing your goals, think about what your current activities need. You might need enough time, someone's opinion, or a moment of rest. You don't have to leave taking care of yourself only as a reward after everything is done. You can take care of yourself little by little throughout the day.
What to keep in mind
Taking care of others does not mean you have to do everything for them. Ask what kind of help is needed and state what you can do. Before spending more money to live comfortably, also look for ways to enjoy things you already have.
One small step today
Choose one thing among meals, rest, or frequently visited spots that you haven't been taking care of lately. Start with a small task that can be done within 10 minutes.
A question to consider
Is what I need right now something that requires more effort, or an environment that can be sustained comfortably?
A thought for today
A day well-cared for can become the strength to continue to the next step.
Reversed
Stagnation of Growth · Over-nurturing and Dependency · Lack of Self-Care
If you are exhausted from taking care of others, please take care of what you need today.
Core meaning
The reversed Empress symbolizes stalled growth or care turning into interference and dependency. While it can mean neglecting oneself while caring for others, it does not simply mean being tired.
It might also mean that you are repeatedly fixing the same thing because the results are slow. Just as overwatering makes a plant weak, time to wait is as necessary as the effort you put in. Instead of concluding that something is wrong, think again about what kind of help you need right now.
What to keep in mind
It does not mean you are unkind because you are tired. Reducing help does not mean you care less about the other person. Calmly state what is difficult right now and what you can do.
One small step today
Write down three things you have been taking care of lately. If you can share or postpone one, use that time to take care of something you need, like a meal or rest.
A question to consider
What do I need to postpone because I have been taking care of others?
A thought for today
It is okay for me to receive care.
Tarot offers a way to reflect on yourself through its symbols. Read it as a point of reference, not a certain prediction of the future or another person's feelings.