Tabula Mundi Tarot: Sagittarius Decan (8-10 Wands) + “Art”

“ART/TEMPERANCE” (SAGITTARIUS) – Welcome to the “Art/Temperance” card of alchemical processes. The mutable fire sign of Sagittarius directs its inspiration through power of the will. Sagittarius’ internal drive is to obtain that which is of a high caliber of knowledge. An experience that holds a greater message of self understanding.

The blending forces of the Sun + Moon and Fire + Water elements are formed within the Orphic egg, which is the place of life preservation. The archetype of “Art/Temperance” is supported on the 25th path between Tiphareth (Sun) and Yesod (Moon). This placement “creates” the energy of Sagittarius. “The Lovers” (Gemini) is the opposing, and yet a transmutation card for the “Art/Temperance” archetype.

The Archer is the amalgamate of the Lovers alchemical elements (white eagle – water and red lion – fire) which has manifested into a personified form of a Griffin. Its fiery arrow aiming towards the heavens via the water infused bow is supporting its direction. The rainbow is the solar reflection from the watery lunar bow connecting us with the earth and cosmos. In front of the Archer is a green vessel that is moving water + fire at equal amounts. This is the “tempering process” needed to create the final form of achievement.

“Eight of Wands” (Mercury) – Mercury in Sagittarius. This is “the speed of light which awakens thoughts“. The winged Caduceus is the support of spiritual transmission with the quartz crystal emanating rays of divine ideas and messages. The entwining serpents upward movement adds momentum in the moment of awakening. The winged sandals of Hermes (Mercury) delivers the messages Energy is spinning quickly and immediate action is needed when faced with a multitude of endeavors. Be aware of the divine energy that is occurring as there is a important message to be communicated.

“Nine of Wands” (Moon) –  Moon in Sagittarius. The “9 of Wands” is placed in the sephiroth of Yesod, the foundation of spiritual knowledge that is being utilized for the greater good of humankind. “The Priestess”(lunar energy) guides us in finding spiritual harmony through the balance of inner and outer forces. The solar eclipse shows how the solar and lunar energies can reveal hidden truth and enliven aspects of the soul. As lunar forces are always influx, inner strength and knowledge is gained through experiences of change and being adaptability. Sagittarius is mutable fire. Its intensity is fluctuating as well and compliments the changing phases of the moon.

“Ten of Wands” (Saturn) –  Saturn in Sagittarius. The oppression of spiritual fire. The drive of inspiration for Sagittarius is slowly being extinguished. The green vessel that is seen in the “Art” card is now black and in a solid form. The fast motion of the “8 of Wands” are now crossed and contained within the black vessel. The enlarged anvil is weighted further with Saturn placed above it. The “10 of Wands” is placed in Malkuth and is indicating the end of a cycle. The open portal of the “Universe” card is showing a empty yellow background that is awaiting for us to experience something greater. The “10 of Wands” can be read as karmic lessons or imposed oppression. There are circumstances where too much fiery energy may need to be simmered or entirely extinguished to reflect upon past actions.