The Emperor Tarot Card

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The Emperor

The Emperor tarot card
Key words: Authority, stability, structure, sound advice

Image: The Emperor sits on a ram-adorned throne, a symbol of Mars. He holds an Ankh sceptre in his right hand, and a globe, symbol of domination, in his left. The Emperor sits atop a stark, barren mountain, a sign of sterility of regulation, and unyielding power. He has no need for abundant surroundings as his strength and stature speak for themselves. He symbolises the top of the secular hierarchy, the ultimate male ego. The Emperor is the absolute ruler of the world.

The Emperor represents a male figure whom we respect, such as a teacher, a lawyer, a doctor, a boss or a financial advisor. He has an air of authority about him and in some cases can be a father figure or an older man. It is likely you will be seeking guidance from the Emperor either now or in the near future. His energy will help you to organise random thoughts and structure your priorities.

If you are in a situation where you are battling with authority, this card reminds you of your own strengths. The power of this card suggests that as long as you have done your homework and your facts are clear, you will not lose an argument. It is important that you stay true to your convictions and not allow your thoughts and ideas to be dismissed by someone with a strong personality. So, have the confidence to stand your ground.

The Emperor represents structure and stability, and suggests it is time to put your life in order. This is a good time to clear out the clutter, both physically and emotionally. Taking control of the issues that surround you will echo the start of a new and positive phase in your life. Move forward with confidence.

If you are starting new projects, you may find overthinking is clouding your judgement. Take a deep breath, regroup and start to build a solid foundation with which to work, even if it means things take a little longer. In order to reach your goals you need time to tie up loose ends, and to confront the issues you have been putting off. The Emperor’s energy will help you to create order. Be more assertive – you can do it! You just need to believe in yourself!

The Emperor will help bring stability to any chaos that may be around you. He may represent a third party, a person of trust and knowledge, who will advise you without prejudice.

Throughout history, the Emperor has been a figure of leadership. Trust his guidance, he is wise and experienced; it is likely he will give you fair and sound advice.

Reversed: Poor judgment, lack of direction.
Affirmation: ‘I have the power to be successful. I am assertive.’

Reproduced by kind permission of Kim Arnold, Tarot Master and Founder of the UK Tarot Conference, editor of Tarot Masters and author of Tarot – Learn How to Read and Interpret the Cards published by Hay House. www.hayhouse.co.uk