A traditional tarot card deck has 78 cards each with its own imagery and symbolism. Each card represents different aspects of life, situations or personal characteristics. When read as a spread or combination of cards, the cards become a tool to create a picture that tells a story that relates to the person who has asked for the reading. (querent). Every reading is different depending on the reader and the circumstances, but tarot cards are also a useful tool in offering insights and common-sense advice on the trials and excitements on this journey we call life.

Most readers start this journey curious to tap into their intuition and psychic abilities by giving and receiving simple tarot card readings with their friends and family.  Sometimes it is harder to read for friends and family and almost impossible to read for yourself than it is a complete stranger because you know them and have emotional expectations about the outcome. Whereas, with complete strangers it is actually quite surprising how perceptive people are when they are asked to give a reading for someone because the clues are always there; body language, verbal language and most people intuitively pick up the energy (vibes) of the people they are interacting with.

As with anything, the more you practice the better you become. Some readers are extremely intuitive and naturally gifted at reading the tarot cards because when they do a reading the cards ‘become alive’ and start interacting with each other and telling the story of the querent’s question. The most proficient tarot card readers are also gifted psychics and have the ability to ‘tune into guides’ and other information that goes beyond the five normal senses. Everyone has their own innate wisdom and the ability to be psychic or a tarot card reader depending on their desire and interest to create a practice that embraces this and brings it into their everyday life.

There are many different ways to read tarot cards, ranging from the simple to the complex. Starting with the basic yes / no spread, right up to using multiple cards to ask meaningful questions which takes the querent on a deep, introspective, spiritual and personal journey. The word spread in a tarot card reading means each card that is placed has a designated meaning, giving the reader an overview and the ability to use the cards in combination to create a story. The most common spreads are the three-card spread, the five-card spread and the Celtic Cross which uses ten cards.

There are many different tarot card or oracle decks which a reader may choose from, each with their own unique symbolism and messages. The reader will use the cards that will give them the most accurate and authentic information to share with their clients.

Written by Verna

Unlocking the Mysteries of Horoscopes: A Journey through Astrology

Have you ever wondered what the stars have in store for you? Perhaps you've casually flipped through a horoscope section in a magazine or scrolled past a daily astrology update on social media. Astrology, the ancient art of interpreting celestial alignments to understand human affairs and earthly events, continues to captivate people around the world, including here in beautiful New Zealand.

Exploring Astrology in the Kiwi Contex

In New Zealand, as in many cultures, astrology plays a significant role in shaping perspectives on life and destiny. Whether you're a staunch believer or a curious skeptic, there's no denying the allure of astrology in our modern age. From the bustling streets of Auckland to the serene landscapes of Queenstown, Kiwis from all walks of life engage with astrology in various forms.

The Influence of Astrological Signs

Each zodiac sign, from adventurous Aries to compassionate Pisces, offers insights into personality traits, strengths, and potential challenges. Many individuals find comfort and guidance in understanding their astrological profile, seeking clues about relationships, career paths, and personal growth.

Daily Horoscopes: Fun or Fortune Telling?

For some, checking their daily horoscope is a lighthearted ritual, a way to start the day with a sense of guidance or curiosity. But it is much more than that. Gifted readers can delve deeper into planetary transits and astrological charts that explain each person's life path and character.

Astrology and Culture in New Zealand

In the multicultural tapestry of New Zealand, astrology reflects a blend of indigenous wisdom and global influences. Māori astrology, for instance, offers a unique perspective rooted in ancestral knowledge and the rhythms of nature. As Kiwis embrace diverse spiritual practices, astrology continues to evolve, resonating with those who seek connection with the cosmos.

Beyond the Stars: Skepticism and Science

While astrology holds a cherished place in many hearts, skepticism remains prevalent. Critics argue that its interpretations lack scientific basis, attributing perceived correlations to coincidence rather than cosmic influence. The debate between believers and skeptics underscores the enduring fascination with astrology's enigmatic allure.

Conclusion: Navigating Life's Journey

Whether you read your horoscope for amusement or earnest insight, astrology in New Zealand reflects a deep-seated human desire for understanding and connection. As we gaze at the night sky over the rugged landscapes of this island nation, we ponder our place in the universe and the mysteries that unfold above.

Embracing Horoscopes

In the realm of astrology, the stars whisper stories of our past, present, and future. Whether you're charting your course by celestial navigation or simply enjoying the celestial spectacle, astrology in New Zealand invites you to explore, contemplate, and perhaps find a glimpse of cosmic wisdom in the dance of the stars.

So, as you go about your day in the Land of the Long White Cloud, take a moment to look up at the sky. Who knows what the stars have in store for you?

Unlock the mysteries, embrace the cosmos, and let the stars guide you on your journey.

We recommend the Black Moon Astrology Cards for those that want to explore Astrology more in their spiritual journey.

Black Moon Astrology Cards - Pendragon Tarot & Psychics

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The universal language of Earth is symbology. Symbols, and pictures are the only way to communicate that everyone on earth understands. 

The creator of our universe is unbiased, and while utilizing the many languages of mankind, mostly uses symbolism to communicate because it cannot be misinterpreted. 

From animals and their attributes, to pictures and symbols - we can communicate through the aether by observing and connecting to the original foundations of Earth.

Tarot is technically the creator's language. And people who wanted to separate man from his creator made us feel as though it's bad.

Many people are afraid of the tarot, but don't realize that playing cards are based upon the tarot, with the joker being the fool and the 4 suits correlating with the four elements of the tarot.

This is an esoteric truth, and the tarot was hidden within playing cards during an era (victorian predominantly) when tarot readings were illegal.

The fears of the tarot still continue to this day in many people, though it truly is an illogical fear. As if a creator would be so immature as to ban images on a card.

The fear comes mostly from the tarot being accurate. "How can the tarot be so accurate? It must be demonic!", is what many people feel. But this can be easily explained.

The tarot works by a psychic using their gifts of connection to the divine and channelling that connection through the cards on behalf. This connection is invisible in the same way that wifi is. It works along electromagnetic fields. The information comes from the field of the individual seeking a reading. This field is then "shuffled" (transmuted) into the symbology of the cards to be read. 

There is nothing demonic about it. It comes from an understanding that everything is connected and is ultimately energy. Those seeking answers will find them, and that can come personally or through another (in this case a tarot reader).

Symbology is used in all cultures and has been around since the dawn of humanity. 

There is nothing to fear and everything to gain from receiving a tarot reading.

Written by Karissa

We also have a great book in our store that we highly recommend if you're interested in exploring Tarot even further - Advanced Tarot: An in-Depth Guide to Practical & Intuitive Tarot Reading

Tarot Cards: Structure and Tradition

1. Systematic Structure: Tarot cards have a structured system comprising 78 cards divided into two main categories: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards, each representing significant life themes and spiritual lessons, such as The Fool, The Magician, and The World. The Minor Arcana includes 56 cards, which are further divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit represents different aspects of daily life and personal experiences.

2. Traditional Symbolism: Tarot cards are steeped in tradition and symbolism. Each card has specific imagery and meanings that have been developed over centuries. This symbolism provides a rich tapestry of interpretations, and the cards are often read in combinations to offer a comprehensive understanding of a situation.

3. Structured Readings: Tarot readings often follow specific spreads or layouts, such as the Celtic Cross or Three-Card Spread. These spreads are designed to address particular questions or issues and provide a detailed analysis based on the positions of the cards. The structured nature of tarot readings can offer in-depth insights into complex situations.

4. Deep Historical Roots: The origins of tarot cards date back to the 15th century, with their use evolving from playing cards to divination tools. This long history has contributed to a rich and complex system that many practitioners find deeply meaningful.

Oracle Cards: Flexibility and Variety

1. Diverse Decks: Oracle cards, on the other hand, come in a wide variety of decks, each with its own theme, structure, and symbolism. Unlike tarot cards, oracle decks do not adhere to a fixed number of cards or a specific layout. Decks can range from as few as 30 cards to over 100, and themes can include angels, nature, mythology, or personal empowerment.

2. Personal and Intuitive: Oracle cards are often designed with more flexibility in mind. Each deck typically comes with a guidebook or instructions that provide insights into the meaning of each card, but the interpretations can be more open to personal intuition. This allows readers to connect with the cards in a way that feels right for them.

3. Varied Readings: Oracle card readings are less structured compared to tarot. While some readers use specific spreads, many simply draw a single card or a few cards for guidance. The focus is often on providing inspiration, affirmation, or a general sense of direction rather than a detailed analysis of a situation.

4. Modern Origins: Oracle cards have a more contemporary history compared to tarot. Many modern oracle decks have been created by artists, spiritual practitioners, and authors in recent decades. This has led to a diverse array of decks that cater to various interests and spiritual practices.

Key Differences Summarized

The Leo zodiac sign and the Sun tarot card share a profound connection, both symbolizing vitality, confidence, and creative expression. Leo, ruled by the Sun, embodies traits of leadership, generosity, and a radiant, charismatic presence. Similarly, the Sun tarot card represents positivity, success, and joy signifying a period of enlightenment and clarity. When these two powerful symbols come together in a reading, they amplify themes of personal power, self-assurance, and the fulfillment of one's true potential, urging you to embrace your inner light and shine brightly in all endeavors.

In addition to the Sun tarot card, the Strength card is also ruled by Leo. The Strength card, often depicted with a woman calmly taming a lion, embodies the qualities of inner strength, courage, and determination, which are core attributes of the Leo zodiac sign. This card emphasizes the power of compassion, patience, and gentle control, reflecting Leo's ability to lead with both heart and mind. When the Strength card appears in a reading, it often suggests harnessing your inner fortitude and confidence to overcome challenges, mirroring the resilient and regal nature of Leo.

Two Aries together from the opposite sex are usually great mates as there is usually a little lighthearted fun in the way these two go about things together. There could however be a threat for a little too much competitiveness in some areas of their lives.

Fire with Fire is a compatible combination as it produces a dynamic, exciting and busy atmosphere but there could be a tendency for stress if you both don't slow down a little occasionally.
Peace, quiet, and relaxation may be difficult to achieve if both try to be the boss so take it in turns with a little bit of give and take and your day to day lives will run smother. Just because you let your Aries mate take over for a while doesn't mean you won't get your say later.

As a partnership you are fiercely supportive of each other and jump to each other's defence if harm threatens Each others feelings are also easily read so you usually can get things off your chest without upsetting each other too much because you anger quickly but also quickly forgive and forget.

You both also have a tendency to rush into things without examining all the facts or options first so together there could be a need for a more rational, steady approach towards financial, career or investment matters.

At the same time because you are both natural risk takers and leave some things to fate, fortune can indeed smile on your relationship and bless you with uncomplicated honest love and affection pure and simple!

Regarding Physical attraction this is when Fire on Fire really begins to ignite
You are both passionate and enthusiastic lovers, with few sexual inhibitions; Boredom will seldom arise in this relationship. You are very well suited when it comes to sexual energy and expression.

Both sexes of the Aries sign are a little flirtatious and this coupled with strong possessive traits could be one area you may need to work on
Affairs of the heart are common, but are just as quickly discarded once the fun of the chase or conquest is over. Aries men and women sometimes see love as another challenge or game to win and once you have the prize what else is there to do?

Around this relationship there could almost be a strong romantic feel, as Aries' people have an innocence and charm all of their own in matters of the heart. Two honest souls who love to be loved.

ARIES WOMAN WITH ARIES MAN

Mr Aries explodes into Miss Aries's life not only at the beginning but also throughout the relationship. If there is anything wrong he doesn't hesitate to say, so there could be the odd argument.
Both sexes display the famous Arian temper so the relationship could be marred by excess disagreement. This could be a physically passionate affair that could burn its self out. As you both need lots of attention and are not liable to give it to each other one or the other could end up looking elsewhere for it.

Both of you display impulsive behaviour when it comes to matters of the heart and in sexual matters swell
You are also both selfish and can have problems sticking to one partner for all of your desires.
He is intrigued by get rich schemes so financially they need to watch things.

Getting to the point where you love yourself truly is like climbing a cliff face barefoot with no rope. If you’ve been hurt and betrayed or perhaps your childhood wasn’t that great, then the path to loving yourself can be one shaky step forward and a few shingle-sliding steps back. The stakes seem so high, one wrong decision and you could have to start all over. One blind choice and you could unravel.

Don’t look down. 

The Tarot can remind you to shine your valuable energy on yourself. To show self care and compassion and be your own champion. The cards fall and remind you to feed your passions, obey your intuition, take that creative risk, clear the swords from the heart, deal with sorrow, be imperfect and feel your power.

In the Ace of Cups a magnificent golden chalice is handed to you. A downward dove indicates divine love pouring universal energy into your cup and the five overflowing streams represent your senses. This cup is invaluable. It speaks of the seeds of great happiness, of experiences that make your heart swell with fullness. It’s the days when you feel blessed and lucky. It is filled with your sensory self. And I like to think of the Ace of Cups as a self love card. A spiritual card of truly feeling your value irrespective of accolades of failures. Your value as a spiritual being. Loving yourself is as simple as that. Loved simply because you exist, like a flower, or a tree. 

A chalice you carry with you everywhere. Being selective about what goes in and protecting the contents gained and garnered.

When the Queen of Cups holds her chalice it is filled with her experiences in love - all the facets. How she mothers and loves, all the sunsets and bush walks and long baths and right choices and lessons learned. Even the sweetness of grief is distilled in her chalice. The Queen of Cups will never let anyone knock her cup over again. It simply won’t happen. Though sometimes it does. 

There are many cards in the Tarot calling you to deepen your experience of self. Through knowing yourself, loving yourself - caring for your beautiful soul and sacred journey is perhaps why you are here on Earth. 

Love yourself.

Written by Southern Star

Element Air is the realm of the mind, it is our thoughts, ideas. It is the east and sunrise, a place of new things and beginnings. It is the power of spells and incantations and serves as a transmitter and messenger. Everything begins with a thought. 

Words have great power, there are times we want our words carried away into the atmosphere and others when we speak them quietly over an object or charm. Air is associated with study and travel, meditation and visions. We can fume our homes to remove negative and unwanted energies and burn incense to raise the vibrations around us. 

Rote and rhyme are the language of spells, as is singing, but as a rule we repeat the spell or incantation at least 3 times. Words convey power and intent and can be used to create realities where none before existed. 

Wednesday is the day of Mercury and is traditionally used for creating study spells. Use the colours yellow or lavender, take rose petals & acacia gum (gum arabic) and mix them together, do this on Wednesday when the Moon is waxing place in a small bowl and charm with a yellow candle. State your intentions clearly that this is a study aid. Use this powder when studying for exams of all kinds. Dab it on the third eye and the back of the neck. You can place the powder close by when you are studying and if possible when you are sitting exams, take some of the powder and tie it in a piece of yellow fabric and put it in your pocket. 

Gossip is sadly very common and it appears there are times when people lack any regard for others with cruel and unkind speech. This is a simple spell for gossip. 

Do this on a windy Wednesday, best when the Moon is waning. Mix together in your right hand salt and sugar. Take it outside and with the wind at your back, hold out your right hand and saying the gossip's name aloud blow the mixture off your hand and into the wind. Repeat their name again and ask the wind to blow their words far far away. 

If you and your lover have quarreled. On a Wednesday when the Moon is waxing, take red rose petals and crush them into powder, mix together with rice flour, place the ingredients in a bowl and burn a lavender candle beside it. If you wish, write your names together on a piece of paper and put them underneath the bowl while the candle is burning. Dust your body over with the powder to heal the quarrel. 

A simple travel spell, take a small piece of paper and write your name on it, also write the destination you desire to travel to. Take a feather and attach the paper to it. Travel away from your home, go somewhere high preferably by the sea and throw your feather and message out into the air calling out your name and where you are wishing to go. If this is fortuitous the wind will catch your feather and it will swirl away, 

Psalms. These are words of power and can be used as verbal protection against dangers both spiritual and human. The 23rd Psalm is the go to Psalm in Hoodoo for this and Psalm 104 can be recited just before sleep.

Written by Paula

The Minor Arcana is the forerunner to the modern-day playing card deck. of 56 cards. In Tarot these are made up of four suits of 14 cards. In each suit the cards are numbered Ace to 10, plus four court cards: Page, Knight, Queen and King.

Incorporating numerology and symbology gives each card in Tarot a deeper meaning. This makes learning to read them quite easy. For example, each card has a simple image, which belongs to a suit, and has an element that represents that suit. Stories and journeys are created by each card in that suit adding to and building upon the previous cards. The descriptions of the cards are based on the Rider Waite tarot deck, while other decks may have different pictures, yet the basic meanings remain consistent.

Number One: New beginnings and action.

Aces are the first card in the suit. The number one relates to "independence, individuality, initiation," and an overall sense of new beginnings. When aces appear in a spread, it indicates what areas of the querent's life are ready for a change, big or small — and where to focus attention to take the steps to create those shifts. 

Ace of Swords - Element: Air 

The illustration of the Ace of Swords is a hand coming out of  a black cloud with a grey background, holding a sword with a crown on top. Swords represents truth, mental thoughts, actions and words. Drawing the Ace of Swords indicates a break through the fog that has clouded the querent’s ability to think clearly. This card also calls for the querent to be clear and assertive and to speak their truth when communicating with others.

Ace of Wands - Element: Fire 

The picture of the Ace of Wands is a hand coming out of the clouds holding a wand. The wand is sprouting new leaves. Wands represent drive, energy, motivation, passion, creativity. Drawing the Ace of Wands indicates that it is a good time to start a new project or do something interesting and creative. Depending on the querent's question it could mean a new possibility/ potential/ opportunity opening up. The Ace of Wands also encourages the querent to believe in themselves, trust their own instincts, find their own voice so that they can follow their own dreams.

Ace of  Cups - Element: Water

The image of the Ace of Cups is a hand coming out of the clouds holding an overflowing cup of joy and happiness. Cups represent feelings, emotions and intuition, so now is a good time for a fresh start and/or possibly a new relationship that is emotionally fulfilling.

Ace of Pentacles - Element  Earth

The suit of Pentacles represents physical manifestation - money, wealth, business and practical things. The Ace of Pentacles depicts a hand emerging from the clouds, open palm upwards holding a large coin. This card represents the universe offering a gift, a new way of making money or manifesting abundance. It could also signify a new financial or career opportunity.

Written by Verna

There are times in our lives we can find ourselves dealing with financial problems. 

Sometimes we only have ourselves to blame, but there are other times this lack of financial flow can be due to obstacles or blockages in our homes.  This can occur even when we are doing our best and watching our financial output closely.  Money doesn't buy happiness but it is a total necessity in our world. Money provides both sustenance and security and our lives are dependant upon it.

Here is a simple Spell to help resolve lack or blockage and help attract money into our homes.

This is what you will need.

2x small glass bottles 

2x handfuls of rice

6x black peppercorns

2x green candles 

This Spell is created on a Tuesday as the Moon waxes (is growing larger) Just ensure that you complete it by midnight.

Light your candles. If you wish dress them with a money attracting oil. - Pine, basil or patchouli for example, do this before you light them.

Take water. Spring or rainwater is perfect but tap water is ok if you've nothing else.  Pour it into a saucepan and bring it to the boil.  Boil for 3 minutes then let it cool and pour it into your small glass bottles.  

When the water is completely cooled add a handful of rice and 3 peppercorns to each bottle.  The water may likely overflow so do this on your kitchen bench or in the sink.

Dry the bottles. 

Place one bottle in your kitchen and one in your living room. Place them somewhere visible.   Take the lit green candles and place them in front of each bottle. Let these burn for an hour and then snuff out the candles. 

Place the candles in a paper bag with a few coins. Dispose of the bag at a later date, away from your home.

Don't blow out your candles, you can use a spoon to snuff them out if you have nothing else. 

It's best to do this Spell in private, other people's thoughts and opinions can shift the energy and the only thoughts you want in your bottles are yours of money flowing in.

Leave your bottles in a prominent place, keeping them dust free.  Change the rice and peppercorns monthly on a Tuesday and waxing Moon.  Like the candles, you can put the contents into a bag with a few coins and dispose of away from your home.  If you have a garden you can bury the rice and peppercorns if you wish.

With this Spell we are using a combination of three Elements.  Earth, Fire and Water.

Fire and Earth in combination create money.  This is the reason for creating this work on Tuesday, Tuesday is ruled by the planet Mars whose Element is Fire.

Element Fire is also brought in by our use of the candles.

Green is the colour of money and this is why we are burning green candles.  Dark green is best.

The dry ingredients bring in the Earth Element.

Rice guards against misfortune in the home and is added to spells for increased money and abundance.

Peppercorns are fiery and protective and they are added to ward off the evil eye which can create blockages brought about by the jealousy and negative thoughts of others. 

The Element Water in this Spell acts as a conductor. 

If you are familiar with the lunar calendar and it's possible to create this Tuesday Spell when the Moon is waxing in an Earth sign - Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn. This can add more energy but don't worry if you’re not. 

Written by Paula

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