XIX
The Sun
Symbols in the artwork
The large sun reminds us of things that were hidden becoming brightly revealed, and the child evokes unadulterated joy. The white horse suggests the power to move forward, and the sunflower speaks of growing vitality. The red flag adds a sense of vibrancy. The golden rays and bright cloth create a joyful atmosphere in the painting. However, just because it is a bright picture does not mean everything will work out easily.
Sources and interpretation
The original text deals with material happiness and satisfaction, and the reversed meaning explains a weakening of the same meaning. The vitality/success and excessive optimism of the modern interpretation were also referenced.
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
Joy and vitality · Success · Truth becoming clear
Don't just pass by the moments that made you feel good today; take a moment to savor them.
Core meaning
The Sun symbolizes bright joy and vitality, achievement, and confidence. It also captures the feeling of complex matters becoming clear and enjoying life as it is.
If you tend to think about what needs to be done next even when something good happens, please pause for a moment. Feeling happy does not mean you forget what needs to be done. It is okay to acknowledge your own accomplishments and enjoy them fully. Try talking to someone you care about or taking a small moment to celebrate. That feeling might become the strength to start the next thing.
What to keep in mind
Even when you feel confident, make sure to do necessary checks. If you have many things you want to do, first check the time and energy you have available. Even enjoyable plans can be enjoyed more comfortably if they are not overscheduled.
One small step today
Write down one thing you accomplished recently and the choice you made that helped you. If you were with someone, express in one sentence what you were grateful for.
A question to consider
What joy have I passed by, thinking it was 'nothing much'?
A thought for today
Knowing how to recognize good moments is also a way of living well through the day.
Reversed
Hidden joy · Excessive optimism · Unrealistic expectations
If you let go of the pressure to appear bright, you might see small joys.
Core meaning
The reversed Sun symbolizes failing to fully feel joy and achievement, or losing touch with reality due to excessive confidence. It can also be interpreted as positive potential weakening or being delayed.
Even in enjoyable settings, you might feel tired, or feel empty even after achieving good results. It's not strange to feel many emotions at once. It's okay not to force yourself to be bright. Instead of waiting for great satisfaction, find something that makes you comfortable right now, like changing into comfortable clothes or resting quietly.
What to keep in mind
Do not ignore feelings of fatigue or discomfort just to show a cheerful appearance. Even if you are disappointed by others' reactions, the moments you enjoyed today do not disappear. Try to recall the scenes that remained in your heart.
One small step today
If a plan you made to show others feels like a burden, reduce one thing. Instead, do something you like for just 10 minutes. It's okay if you don't take pictures or tell anyone else.
A question to consider
How is the joy I want different from the image I want to show others?
A thought for today
Quiet enjoyment is also sufficient enjoyment.
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.