This week I'll be using the Stone Tarot, a self-published deck by Alison Stone. I may also dip into her book of tarot poems (Ordinary Magic), although it wasn't written as a companion book. The oracle I'll be using is the Buddhist Quote Cards, painted and published by Diana Altenburg. Even though she has spiritual quotes (from John Lennon to Lao Tzu) on the back of the cards, I have decided to pair each card with a verse from the Dhammapada. Today's draws are Justice and Dhammapada 9:122.
Stone's poem for the Queen of Pentacles is a letter from Lilith to Adam. In Jewish folklore, Lilith had been formed from the same clay as Adam, but when he told her she must be subservient to him, she grew wings and flew away. She makes clear to him that she would much rather have her integrity intact and hang out with with the flora and fauna than be a slave to anyone. Like all Queen of Pentacles, she is grounded in reality and very resourceful. She may not have much, but she sure knows how to be creative with what she has. The verse form the
Dhammapada reads: "With dripping drops of water even a water jug is filled." Tossed into a situation where we must choose between what we value and security, it's easy for confidence to waver. But each small step we take can help our courage and assurance grow.
Because (s)he demands no honor,
(S)he will never be dishonored.
Sometimes we must choose ourselves over others. The Queen of Pentacles lives in reality and does what she must, as did Lilith. She left and created a whole new tribe to help balance the world when the garden proved to be a trap.
ReplyDeleteSometimes what appears safe really isn't.
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