The World
Symbolic Attributes
- Element:Saturn
- Arcana:Major Arcana
- Suit:Trump
- Archetype:Enlightenment
- Numerology:21 = 2 + 1 = 3 (expression, result)
- Hebrew Alphabet:Tau/Cross/400
Keywords
Description
As this final message of the Major Trumps is unchanged--and indeed unchangeable--in respect of its design, it has been partly described already regarding its deeper sense. It represents also the perfection and end of the Cosmos, the secret which is within it, the rapture of the universe when it understands itself in God. It is further the state of the soul in the consciousness of Divine Vision, reflected from the self-knowing spirit. But these meanings are without prejudice to that which I have said concerning it on the material side. It has more than one message on the macrocosmic side and is, for example, the state of the restored world when the law of manifestation shall have been carried to the highest degree of natural perfection. But it is perhaps more especially a story of the past, referring to that day when all was declared to be good, when the morning stars sang together and all the Sons of God shouted for joy. One of the worst explanations concerning it is that the figure symbolizes the Magus when he has reached the highest degree of initiation; another account says that it represents the absolute, which is ridiculous. The figure has been said to stand for Truth, which is, however, more properly allocated to the seventeenth card. Lastly, it has been called the Crown of the Magi.
Light Meaning
- Having it all
- Knowing and loving yourself as completely as possible
- Seeing the interconnection of all things and people
- Enhancing your perspective
- Living life to its fullest
- Understanding the meaning of life
Shadow Meaning
- Allowing greed and envy to prevent you from enjoying what you do possess
- Failing to see the larger design in ordinary events
- Believing that everything that exists can be touched, counted, or measured
- Failing to see the divine reflected in those around you
Questions to Ask Yourself
- •For me, what would having it all mean?
- •How aware am I of my own connectedness to the world around me?
- •What keeps me from having it all right now, today?
Personal Meaning
Realizeation of your greatest dreams. Stay engaged with others as you enter this time of happiness and integration, for your connection with others will make your feelings of fulfillment all the greater.
Realizeation of your greatest dreams. Being engaged with others and celebrating your connections.
Realizeation of your greatest dreams. Stay engaged with others enjoy this time of happiness and integration, for your connection with others will make your feelings of fulfillment all the greater.
Personal Reversed Meaning
Things don't look too good for a successful completion of goals. You may feel disappointment or incompleteness. Examine your options carefully and try to make changes now that will be more likely to assure you the results you are looking for in the future.
Things didn't go nearly as well as you had hoped. There may have been feelings of disappointment or incompleteness.
Things don't look too good for a successful completion of your goals. You may feel disappointment or incompleteness. Examine your options carefully and try to make changes that will be more likely to assure you the results you are looking for.
Fortune Telling
- •Winning the lottery
- •Getting your heart's desire
- •Having everything you ever imagined having
Mythical / Spiritual Context
The ascended Christ. The Buddha attaining enlightenment. The alpha and the omega. The completion of the alchemist's great work.
How to Interpret This Card in a Reading
A guide to deepening your understanding of Tarot symbolism.
Context is Key
No Tarot card exists in a vacuum. While the meanings above provide a foundation, the true significance of this card depends on where it lands in your spread. Is it in the past position, indicating a phase you are moving away from? Or is it in the outcome position, suggesting a potential future? Always consider the neighboring cards — they often tell a story that modifies or amplifies the message.
Trust Your Intuition
Traditional meanings are the starting point, but your intuition is the compass. When you look at the card imagery, what draws your eye first? A specific color, a symbol, or a facial expression might trigger a personal memory or feeling. That immediate reaction is often the most relevant message for your current situation, even if it differs from the standard definition.
Understanding Reversals
If this card appears reversed (upside down), don't fear it. Reversals often suggest an internalizing of the card's energy, a delay, or a need to revisit the lesson before moving forward. It can also indicate that the "shadow" aspects described above are currently more active, inviting you to bring them into the light for healing.
Connecting with the Element
Remember the suit this card belongs to. Wands speak to passion and action (Fire). Cups dive into emotions and relationships (Water). Swords navigate the mind and conflicts (Air). Pentacles ground us in the material world and resources (Earth). The Major Arcana represents larger life themes and soul lessons. Filtering the card's meaning through its elemental lens will give you a grounded, practical way to apply its wisdom to your life.