Below the Obscurations

 From the Anna K Tarot, the High Priestess; from the Meditation Cards, Wholesome vs. Unwholesome:

Mind is eclipsed by many different obscurations; if they are removed, mind’s fundamental nature, like the sun shining brightly in a clear, open sky, can manifest all the qualities of wisdom, compassion, and a Buddha’s abilities. ― Kalu Rinpoche

The High Priestess knows that within each of us is a luminous mind that sees with clarity, wisdom and compassion. But the ego sets up roadblocks to it, determined to have its demands met no matter what. Being trained in meditation allows the priestess to sink below the rollicking waves created by its self-centeredness, down to a place of calm and spaciousness. Here is found a 'hidden' reserve of knowledge and intuition. Wholesome vs. Unwholesome refers to karma our thoughts and actions create:

What really makes it wholesome or unwholesome is not the content so much as the intention that gives rise to the content. (Narayan Helen Liebenson)

If we want to know whether we are listening to the luminous mind or the ego, all we need to do is look at what is behind the thought or action. Is it being fueled by some form of anger, greed or delusion, or is it triggered by kindness, generosity and wisdom? The first brings suffering while the latter benefits everyone.