The Emperor

Major Arcana
Written By Quinn

Traditional Meaning

Strong male. Assertiveness. Leadership skills are apparent. Directness. Aggression and dominance. The father/husband. 

Going Deeper

The card brings fire energy into play and gives the power to initiate situations in the area where the card falls in the reading. Because of the masculine energy contained in the card, it generally describes a man rather than a woman with a dominant personality. The Emperor represents a forceful and confident individual. He is usually the boss wherever he works and does not suffer fools gladly. Though he is not averse to strong passion, he can be impatient, blunt, and dismissive of more delicate emotions. If you have dealings with officials, he will be a stern, no-nonsense individual who doesn't respond to compliments or flattery. He is a man that wants facts, not fantasy and has no time for woolly thinkers or even airy intellectual types. He wants things done, and he wants them done now. Because the card has a not-so-distant connection to Mars, it can indicate an argumentative and bossy person. At the extreme end, it describes a petty dictator that likes to throw his weight without considering the feelings of anyone. Depending on the context of the reading, it can be a warning to mix mercy with might and not get carried away with your own wants and needs. Sometimes, it is necessary to stand up and assert yourself, but you must do so for the right reasons. The overall reading could be asking you to take the lead in situations where no one is taking charge. If tempers are heated, and The Emperor looks negative, then reassess the situation to ensure it's not you who needs to be a bit more accommodating. If you're dealing with the Emperor, it's no use resorting to emotional blackmail. 

Astro Insight

The sign of Aries. 

Examples With Other Cards

Wands: With the five, there's built-up frustration. The ace and two indicate a man of raw action; he's a doer, not a thinker. Swords: Care needs to be taken around communication; there is a danger of being too sharp. With the nine and ten, give a wide berth to those you know can be volatile. Chariot: Good opportunities to get something moving. A significant person will initiate action, or you will experience a massive energy increase yourself. Tower: You need to watch your temper; you may need to exercise more or practice slow breathing. If the Emperor represents someone else, you may have to deal with sudden changes thanks to someone else's rash and impulsive behaviour.  

To Help Yourself or Give Advice To Clients

Suppose the Emperor represents another person (other than yourself or the person having the reading). In that case, you need to look at the cards around him. See if the personality leans towards strong and authoritative or tyrannical and bullying. Obviously, the former would be preferable to the latter. 

Vanadinite

Common Associations

The fire element. The colour red. Powerful instincts and the ability to act at the right time. Fiery opals and Vanadinite are the stones to draw this energy in.

 

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