The Tarot of Eli, LLC-Minor Arcana: Thoth Tarot-4 of Disks-Power & The Declarative Tarot - Layers of Presence- No.-4- Stability

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Above all things, know thyself!

#4. From the exhaustless riches of its limitless substance, I draw all things needful both spiritual and material.

4 OF DISKS=Power....condition of assured material gain, and earthly power completed but nothing beyond (Waite).

The 4 of Disks -Power, is also called the Lord of Earthly Power. The Angels of the Decan are Keveqiah and Mendial. The planet is the Sun and here it is in Capricorn. Depicted on the Thoth Card is a fortress made by the grounding of Chesed (mercy) in Assiah, the Material world. Held by constant authority and vigilance, a type of Law and order holds the 4 Alchemical Elements in balance. Fire (Spirit/Will), Air (mind/Intellect), Water (intuition/emotions), and Earth/Physical world, are all centered on material security. Material security, once established and hoarded, often means "nothing ventured nothing gained" and becomes a problem of stasis that will be removed by the Greater Spiritual Self (5 of Disks) to keep things moving. However, for now things look under control and sitting back and enjoying material security seems justified. Here we also have gifts, legacy, and inheritance. With this card, there is also a caveat that is to keep things moving in our favor, we must show gratitude for what we have now, as gratitude opens more doors of opportunity and new abilities.

Astrologically we have the Sun in Capricorn which assures the light and warmth of success but nothing beyond the moment. With Sol in Capricorn, the ancients believed this is the greatest display of solar power that occurred each year as the Sun seemed to conquer death by reversing the southward plunge into darkness.

(The God Molecule)

"Chesed shows the establishment of the Universe in 3 dimensions that are below the Abyss."[Book of Thoth-pg. 213]. Crowley calls this card, "In the Rite of Saturn" and "The Fortress that is upon the Frontier of the Abyss."[See "The Rites of Eleusis, The Equinox (6), Supplement-p.10]

The Sun in Capricorn is also representative of the Rational part of our Psyche now being in total control of creative energy for material wealth; boundaries against change are erected and the illusion of security is enjoyed. Now this feeling of benevolent strength is indeed wonderful, but we must also invest in the motion of wealth into prosperity---so being flexible with your wealth is recommended. The 4 of Disks card reminds us that damming a river can secure water, but if we don't leave room for overflow, we stifle the prosperity all around us for a false sense of security that soon putrefies. This easily becomes avarice- blockages of thought and action which naturally follow from excessive devotion to materialistic rewards. However, if the drawbridge of mind is open for "outside" traffic we can do something tangible and take concrete steps towards creating security in the physical world that enhances that security for others as well.

Therefore, when all is examined, this card represents a positive with a caution; a kind of “good for you", that can only keep being good if you expand it to "good for others" as well. That is why the draw bridge is down and the gate is open on the Thoth illustration of the 4-of Disks, we must allow flowing change to if we want to stay Secure in our power.

The 4 square disks each contain one of the symbols for the four elements and the walls are strong and immobile. Yet we have the Sun reborn in Capricorn and therefore, a promise of new powerful activity is present, and is best shown as the Dancing Skeleton of ATU/ Key 13 (1 +3=4). What hints at underlying transformative power in the 4 of disks Tarot Card; a power depicted as the orange-yellow color of the card.

Like the eye of a hurricane, the 4 of Disks is the "Dead Center" of the Engineer of all manifestation-Chesed. Here at the center, everything looks quiet and stable, but violent activity is making it so and soon, that stability will "fly to the winds". Capricorn is the center "where the Sun turns Northward." So, the turning is happening in what looks to be stable.

(Formerly-4 of Disks-Power)

The Declarative Tarot-Layers of Presence-No.4-Stability is about the stability that produces a balance of self-confidence, sure footedness, and making choices that result in greater sense of presence. Such stability promotes happiness, abundance, and success. This is about setting boundaries, creating opportunities for future growth, but without getting trapped in a stasis of false security that causes us to ignore the cycles of change that happen around us and thereby, we become static and locked behind our own boundaries. Walls are made to keep others out, but they also form a prison for the one within.

On the tree trunk is a Rhinoceros Beetle. This insect is confident, sure footed, and committed to its goal.

The Rhinoceros Beetle is a fascinating insect known for its distinctive horn-like structure on its head, which resembles the horn of a rhinoceros, hence its name.

Rhinoceros Beetles belong to the family Scarabaeidae and are found in various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They come in various species, some of which are quite large and can measure several inches in length.

These beetles are herbivores and primarily feed on decaying plant matter, particularly wood. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aiding in the decomposition of dead trees and other organic material.

In some cultures, Rhinoceros Beetles hold symbolic significance and are considered symbols of strength and power due to their imposing appearance. They are also popular as pets in some parts of the world, with enthusiasts keeping them in captivity.

It's always interesting to explore various aspects of the natural world and how they might connect to metaphysical or symbolic meanings in various belief systems.

One might ask themselves, "Am I all armored up in a defensive posture, as if I were a Rhinoceros Beetle, or am I a stable presence and capable person, able to manage the task at hand. One whose presence is enough to handle all opposition and get the job done."

Above the armored beetle is a New World or Baltimore Oriole.

The New World Orioles are a diverse group of colorful and melodious songbirds found primarily in the Americas. They belong to the family Icteridae, which includes blackbirds, grackles, and meadowlarks. Here's some information about New World Orioles:

1. Range: New World Orioles are primarily found in the Americas, ranging from North America to South America. They inhabit a variety of ecosystems, including forests, woodlands, orchards, and even urban areas.

2. Species: There are several species of New World Orioles, and they vary in size, coloration, and habitat preferences. Some of the well-known species include the Baltimore Oriole, Orchard Oriole, Hooded Oriole, and Altamira Oriole.

3. Appearance: New World Orioles are known for their vibrant plumage, which often includes shades of orange, yellow, and black. Males tend to be more brightly colored than females. Orioles typically have pointed bills and are medium-sized birds.

4. Diet: These birds are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They primarily feed on insects, nectar from flowers, and fruit. Orioles are known for their distinctive hanging nests, which they weave from plant fibers, often in trees or shrubs near a food source.

5. Migration: Many New World Oriole species are migratory, spending the breeding season in North America and then migrating to Central or South America for the winter. Their migrations often span thousands of miles.

6. Song: The Orioles are renowned for their melodious and flute-like songs. Their songs are often used to establish territory and attract mates during the breeding season.

7. Conservation: While some New World Oriole species are widespread and common, others face threats due to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these beautiful birds and their habitats.

8. Cultural Significance: Orioles have cultural significance in some regions. For example, the Baltimore Oriole is the state bird of Maryland and is also associated with the Baltimore Orioles baseball team. Their bright orange and black colors are reminiscent of the city's heraldic colors.

The amazing song of these colorful birds sounds their presence. What about your voice? Do you feel comfortable with the sound of your voice and the message it delivers? Are you confident in your speech, or do you wobble notes in fear of being rejected? Fear of rejection is a child's fear, it is time to talk to the inner child of the subconscious and make it more conscious by your loving interactions within the brain. We are not bodies, we are Souls/Solar Beings, who operate a body. So, operate it in the name of I AM and do not let the environment operate it for you. I AM Immortal Spirit...and I operate this wonderful sensual body in my name of I AM no other authority resides in this body!

The dogwood flowers grace the front of this tree. Dog Woods take a strong hold once they find stability in their environment and root system.

In reference to "Dogwood" trees, there is indeed some folklore associated with them. Dogwood trees are known for their beautiful springtime blossoms and have symbolic significance in various cultures and legends, particularly in North America. Here's some information on Dogwood trees and the folklore associated with them:

Dogwood Tree (Cornus florida):

1. Appearance: Dogwood trees are small to medium-sized deciduous trees or shrubs that are native to eastern and central North America. They are known for their distinctive four-petaled flowers, which typically bloom in shades of white or pink in the spring.

2. Legend of the Dogwood Tree: There is a Christian legend associated with the Dogwood tree, which suggests that the tree was once much larger and had distinctive characteristics before it became the tree we know today. According to the legend:

   • At the time of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the Dogwood tree was as tall and strong as an oak tree.

   • It was used to create the cross upon which Jesus was crucified, and because of this, it was cursed and would never again grow large enough for such use.

   • The flowers of the Dogwood tree were originally shaped like a cross, with four petals, and were tinged with red at the tips to symbolize the blood of Christ.

   • In addition, the legend states that the Dogwood tree would always be a small, slender tree so it could never be used for such a purpose again.

3. Native American and Other Folklore: Besides the Christian legend, various Native American tribes have their own beliefs and folklore surrounding the Dogwood tree. For some, the Dogwood was a symbol of strength and protection. Its wood was used for making tools and other practical items.

4. Ornamental Use: Today, Dogwood trees are highly valued for their ornamental qualities, with their delicate blooms and colorful fall foliage. They are often planted in gardens and parks for their aesthetic appeal.

5. Wildlife: Dogwood trees also provide food for various wildlife species, including birds, butterflies, and bees, as they produce small fruit-like drupes that are attractive to these creatures.

6. Conservation: Some species of Dogwood trees are facing threats, including Dogwood anthracnose, a fungal disease. Efforts are being made to conserve and protect these trees, as they are an important part of both natural ecosystems and human culture.

The legend of the Dogwood tree is a significant part of American folklore, and it has contributed to the tree's cultural and symbolic importance. However, these trees will not settle just anywhere. How about you? Do you settle for, always compromising your presence to please others? This card asks you to consider your stability as a presence of the Divine in this world. Here is a person who knows love for love is not some insipid sappy emotion, but a powerful tough presence in this world of the Military industrial complex. Tough love states, " If you wish to speak to me, you must stand! For I will not kneel to your weakness",

Therefore, this image also displays a tight hold on one's belongings, usually because of fear of loss. It's time to ask oneself, "Does my abundance bring a sense of security, of liberty, and achievement or does it bring the thoughts of losing it, to theft or even inflation?" This is something all of us must learn. Here is a test of what the true values of life are. Is it about s/he who possesses the most or is the true value of life that the wisdom learned by in-form-action? knowing that nothing is permanent. Security is not earned; it is an inheritance of the Powerful intellect. Again "Above all things, know thyself" rains true. Hence, "Your presence is enough". But few are truly present as they hide behind a mask of words and false identity while believing that money or title gives them value. The Truth is money needs us to use it to trade for food, vehicles, houses, and the daily "stuff" of life. Otherwise, money is of no value at all, unless we all cooperate in the illusion. So instead of the poverty thinking of a weak personality, who thinks it "needs money", one should use the powerful intellect given to them by the Creatrix and know that "I AM Wealth"! Those who know that I Am, declares their presence and know that "money needs me to have value". Hence, to seek it is to declare lack, while declaring it as "I AM Wealth", is to enact the Law of Attraction. Therefore, "I AM the Power of Creation"! It's time we allow the Soul/The Solar Self- to have power on earth by waking up the brain from its hypnotic state brought on by media-controlled words! I Am not a word; I create words they don't create me!

When the 4 of Disks/Pentacles is thrown during a reading:

• The querent is owning their own personal energy, physical potency, and vitality; the very act of which proceeds change.
• There may be a feeling of holding on tightly to what one has, emotionally or physically.
• The enfoldment of Power, here the Ability to Do Work (Power) is unfettered, and the engineer is active.
• The querent is taking solid steps towards creating material security in the physical world.
• Here, "nothing ventured nothing gained" is also the axiom of the 4.
• Imperturbability. 
• Creativity and innovative ideas. 

If ill defined by the surrounding cards, it implies:

• Holding too tightly to what you have, and not taking risks of change.
• Blockage of creative thought due to avarice, or excessive devotion to material things.
• Compulsivity. 
• Stubbornness.
• Stagnation.

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