The Tarot of Eli, LLC-Minor Arcana: Thoth Tarot-6 of Swords-Science & The Mystic Palette Tarot-6 of Swords

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Above all things, know thyself!

#6. In all things great and small, I see the beauty of the Divine Expression.

The complete mundane interpretation of the Thoth 6 of Swords card is the perfect balance of all mental and moral facilities, hardly won and almost impossible to hold in an ever-changing world.

The 6 of Swords is the science of the Spiritual- Mind-Body collective that is both objective and fair-witnessing, which is an aspect of our Psyche but not as often used as it should be.

The 6 of Swords- Science card is also called: Lord of Earned Success the Angels of the Decan are: Rehaayal and Yeyezeil. The 6 of Swords is influenced by Tiphareth, the golden Sephiroth, in the Astral-Formative World of Yetzirah. Therefore, being formative in Yetzirah all form begins.

The 6 swords, suggesting the form of the holy hexagram, all join in the center of the Rosy cross; a Rosicrucian Cross, which is the universal symbol of integration, synthesis, and blessing. This Rosy Cross indicates that the 6 of Swords represents the integrative mind that recognizes sources of inspiration that are sometimes unexplainable.

The Thoth Card also Represents the holistic mind which is symbolized by the circle while the crystalline diamond represents the clear creative/imaginative mind. These mind-planes can consider many thoughts at once (the many pinwheels in the background) and integrate them into a whole clarity that is objectively communicated in such a way as to present a new perspective that is otherwise unseen. Hence the association of knowledge gained through experience forms wisdom.

This new perspective is suggesting a keen mind, with excellent communication skills, and one who is very curious and investigates both sides of an issue. Hence, the title of Science.

This symbol also suggests the Universal Collective Unconscious, the mother of all Consciousness. Here is the Mind that is both rational and intuitional; therefore, a mind that works on both "sides of the Mirror" and/or bridges the Macrocosm and Microcosm.

Mercury is seen at the top of the card and Aquarius at the bottom, symbolizing Mercury in Aquarius. Mercury is the winged messenger (clear communication), and Aquarius is the New Age (new perspectives) symbolizing the ability to communicate innovative ideas in such an objective way that they are easily understood and heard.

The Minor cards are all under the rule of a Sephirotic Intelligence. In the case of the 6's, it is the 6th Sephiroth Tiphareth- Beauty, i.e., the Soul or Sun (mental-hermaphrodite/Androgyne) of the Divine Creative. The adept will find the initiation of Tiphareth the first of the Greater Initiations into the meaning of the Truth of Self. This Tiphareth initiation is a scarifying of all that we know to be indoctrinated-self, small ego (microcosm), and life as we have lived it. Here the sacrifice is not relinquishing the much desired something, but rather a transition of Force, from that of the will of lesser consciousness to the Pure Will of the Greater Self.; "Thy will be done" rather than, the self-absorbed ego's "my will be done".

Tiphareth: The Sixth Sephirah on the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Tiphareth (תפארת), meaning "Beauty," is the sixth Sephirah on the Qabalistic Tree of Life. It sits at the heart of the Tree, harmonizing the forces above and below, and is often associated with equilibrium, sacrifice, and the Christ-consciousness. It is the center of the Ruach, the rational soul in the human psyche, and serves as the bridge between the Higher Self and the lower aspects of being.

Characteristics of Tiphareth

1. Sphere of the Sun (Shemesh / שֶׁמֶשׁ)

   • Tiphareth is ruled by the Sun and embodies solar qualities such as radiance, harmony, enlightenment, and self-awareness.
   • It represents the balance of mercy (Chesed) and severity (Geburah), creating a point of perfect beauty and equilibrium.

2. The Christ and Solar Hero Archetype

   • Often associated with the sacrificed gods such as Christ, Osiris, and Mithras, Tiphareth embodies self-sacrifice and spiritual redemption.
   • It is the sphere of the "dying and resurrected god," symbolizing the transformative journey of the adept.

3. Harmonization and Integration

   • This Sephirah acts as the harmonizer of all other forces in the Tree, bringing together the energies of the higher divine realms and the lower manifested world.
   • It is a place of inner peace, where conflicting forces are reconciled.

4. Path of the Adept: Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel

   • In the Western Hermetic tradition, the attainment of Tiphareth is synonymous with the "Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel," a key stage in the Great Work.
   • It marks the first true contact with the Higher Self or Divine Will.

5. Associated Symbols and Correspondences

   • Planetary Correspondence: Sun (Shemesh) ☉
   • Elemental Influence: Solar Fire
   • Archangel: Raphael, the healer and reconciler

Tiphareth can be considered the Soul, particularly in the context of Qabalistic psychology and the structure of the Ruach (the human consciousness). However, the concept of "Soul" is complex in Qabalah, so it's important to define what aspect of the Soul Tiphareth represents.

Tiphareth as the Soul: The Solar Self

1. The Ruach (Rational Soul) and the Higher Self

   • In the Qabalistic model of the Soul, the Ruach (רוּחַ)—the intellect, moral consciousness, and will—resides primarily in Tiphareth.
   • It acts as the bridge between the lower aspects of human consciousness (Nephesh, the animal soul) and the higher divine aspects (Neshamah, the spiritual soul).
   • This placement makes Tiphareth the seat of the True Self, or the aspect of the Soul that integrates divine awareness with personal identity.

2. Tiphareth as the Seat of the Higher Self (Holy Guardian Angel)

   • The Higher Self, often equated with the Holy Guardian Angel (HGA) in Hermetic Qabalah, is accessed through Tiphareth.
   • This encounter is the mystical realization of one's divine nature, where the aspirant moves beyond ego and aligns with the Will of the Divine.
   • The Holy Guardian Angel is both separate from and identical to the Adept—representing the transcendental essence of the individual Soul.

3. The Solar Self: The Central Radiance of Being

   • The Sun (Shemesh/שֶׁמֶשׁ) is the central force in our solar system, and Tiphareth is the central force of the Tree of Life.
   • It illuminates and gives life to the whole system, much like the Soul radiates consciousness and identity into the human experience.
   • The Light of Tiphareth reflects both divine awareness and the personal sense of self that is in harmony with the Cosmos.

4. Tiphareth as the Mediating Point Between the Divine and the Personal Self

   • It serves as a harmonizing principle, balancing the higher archetypal forces of the Supernal Triad and/or the Superconscious (Kether, Chokmah, Binah) with the manifested reality below.
   • This makes it the point of self-realization and divine-human synthesis, where one can begin to embody their true spiritual essence. Hence, the science of spirit-mind-body harmony.

Which Aspect of the Soul Does Tiphareth Represent?

In the Five Levels of the Soul (from the Qabalistic tradition), Tiphareth corresponds most closely to Neshamah (נשמה), the divine, intelligent soul. However, it also integrates aspects of Ruach, which governs reason and moral will.

• Nephesh (נפש) – The lower, instinctual soul, associated with Yesod and the subconscious.
• Ruach (רוח) – The rational, moral soul, primarily housed in Tiphareth.
• Neshamah (נשמה) – The higher, spiritual soul, which shines through Tiphareth but is rooted in Binah.
• Chiah (חיה) & Yechidah (יחידה) – Higher spiritual essences connected to Chokmah and Kether, transcending individuality.

Thus, Tiphareth is the Soul as it manifests in human experience, the bridge between pure divine spirit and earthly personality.

Tiphareth as the Sacrificed and Resurrected Soul

Many spiritual traditions align the journey through Tiphareth with the death and resurrection of the Soul:

• The Crucifixion & Resurrection of Christ
• The Death & Rebirth of Osiris
• The Solar Journey of Ra through the Underworld
• The Descent of the Mystical Self and Its Illumination

Each of these myths symbolize the death of the ego and the rebirth into divine consciousness—which is exactly the transformation that happens in Tiphareth.

Conclusion: Is Tiphareth the Soul?

Yes, Tiphareth represents the Soul, particularly as the Solar Self, the Higher Self, and the harmonized center of being. It is the Ruach in alignment with the Neshamah, the reflective consciousness of the Divine within the human experience. As such, it is the bridge between personal identity and divine realization, making it the true core of the mystical journey.

The air sign of Aquarius is ruled by Saturn, which tends to stabilize the fleeting qualities of Mercury. The positioning of Mercury in Aquarius, an intellectual sign, leads naturally to science and humanitarianism so success is the result of Saturn's work in this aspect.

Now the cutting power of Swords is turned toward the positive, and the Rose is resurrected after being war torn in the 5 of Swords that related to the Severity of Saturn/Geburah. In the 6 of Swords, the swords all come together at a point in the restored Rose Cross of 6 squares, which in his Book of Thoth- Crowley calls, “The Rose Cross at the central secret of Scientific Truth."

Thus, we have the definitive meaning of "success after anxiety and trouble", for the Way of the Cross is suffering before ascension and the number 6 is the number attributed to the "Dying Gods", whom of which we are related. This is because our bodies die, but our Psyche/Soul is immortal and absorbs the experience of the personality and reselects another form to experience the new sum of knowledge and therefore "lives again". Hence, the "resurrection" that is also common to the dying gods' religions.

Here, Tiphareth shows the perfect balance and idea of the card, as all moral and mental faculties are perfectly balanced, won by significant effort, but hard to hold in the interference of an ever-changing world of political propaganda and commercialized morality. However, for now, The Spirit-Mind-Body union that is called the "Whole Being" and/or "Whole Self", are in equilibrium. The Swords are also displayed in the shape of Metatron's Cube, the symbol representing all creation.

The Mystic Palette Tarot-6 of Swords plays on the fairy tale poem of Edward Lear, "The Owl and the Pussy cat" (The owl and the pussy cat went to sea/ in a beautiful pea green boat."). Hence the play on the description of Tiphareth, the 6th Sephiroth called Beauty.

There is plenty of symbolism here; However, the primary meaning of this card relies on its mode or tone that is supplied by the surrounding cards in the reading. Hence, it suggests an uneasy escape and a melancholy but hopeful journey into a new life.

In the Rider-Waite-Smith-Traditional Tarot 6 of Swords, we have a boatman, a mother and child and six swords stuck in the boat's hull. Signifying a tenuous journey at best. However, in the Mystic Palette Tarot, the boatman has become a black bird and owl transformation. As animal helpers, the black bird lights the way with a chandelier and the owl guides the boat. Rather than being stuck in the boat's hull the 6 swords are stuck in the water, lurking as if they are mines and/or torpedoes.

The Venucian woman in the gondola seems rather pensive and her beautiful dress is adorned by the golden symbol of mercury, the messenger of the gods. In the water near the prow is the astrological symbol for the sign of Aquarius.

Mercury in Aquarius brings unique qualities to communication and thought processes. Here are some traits associated with this placement:

1. Innovative Thinking: Individuals with Mercury in Aquarius tend to have innovative and original ideas. They enjoy exploring unconventional concepts and pushing the boundaries of traditional thought.

2. Open-Mindedness: Aquarian energy fosters open-mindedness and a willingness to consider diverse perspectives. People with this placement are often accepting of different viewpoints and are curious about various subjects.

3. Intellectual Independence: These individuals value their intellectual freedom. They may not conform to conventional beliefs and prefer to form their own opinions through objective analysis and reasoning.

4. Social Awareness: Mercury in Aquarius is socially conscious and interested in collective well-being. Communication may revolve around social issues, humanitarian causes, and the greater good.

5. Detached Communication Style: There might be a certain emotional detachment in their communication. They tend to approach conversations with logic and reason, sometimes appearing aloof or distant.

6. Technological Savvy: With Aquarius being associated with technology, those with Mercury in Aquarius may have a natural affinity for and interest in technological advancements. They may easily adapt to new communication tools and platforms.

7. Unconventional Language Use: These individuals may use language in unique and unconventional ways. They enjoy experimenting with words, language structures, and expressing ideas that challenge the norm.

8. Group Collaboration: Mercury in Aquarius individuals thrive in group settings. They enjoy collaborative thinking and brainstorming sessions, often contributing inventive ideas to collective projects.

Remember, the overall personality is a blend of various astrological factors, so these traits provide a general overview rather than a complete picture.

The understanding of the 6 of Swords place us consciously in our subconscious, the Original Will of the One whose god name is Eheieh, meaning "I Will Be". Thereby, elevating us above the emotions, and desires of the indoctrinated "false ego" that have caused us disharmony in the easily programed survival-based subconscious which should be under the will of the awake consciousness but is enslaved by media-controlled "word hypnosis" and false jeopardy. Knowing this, we are then elevated beyond the false ego identity that is composed of words and begin receiving our true inheritance from the Greater Self...The I AM which is Solar and made of creation's data infused light!

Therefore, another idea behind this card is that "troubles are behind" as we transition towards a new phase. The time has come for a change of mind/perspective. However, one being of a conservative nature will find that they are afraid of everything new. This card suggests that you must deal with your troubles, especially those that are about a trip you are planning to take.

When thrown during a reading, the 6 of swords, it implies that the querent is:

• Objective, logical and prone to logical thinking.
• Justice.
• Showing strong analytical ability and displays logical scientific thinking both internally and outwardly.
• In 6 weeks or 6 months, problems will be ended, because the correct, logical things have been done or are being done.  
• Communication patterns are logical, reliable and promote problem solving.
• There is a general acceptance of attitudes and belief systems that promote a rhythmic and cyclic lifestyle.
• The ability to see things objectively in a new perspective. Here, the mind is watching itself and aids in passage from one world of conscious perspective to another.
• Again, depending on the accompanying cards. When this card is thrown it indicates that in the next 6 weeks or 6 months it is important to look at things as they are rather than what you want them to be. 
• It is important to be clear in your own mind so that you can successfully communicate innovative ideas or decisions in such a way as to be non-threatening and easily heard. 
• This card can also indicate that you should make a special effort to communicate clearly to the important Aquarian people in your life (January 21 to February 21). 
• The Science-mind is clear, sharp, and free of confusion, uncluttered with "should have beens" and "wannabes". It is a rare state of mind that is important to utilize.
• Travel by water.

If ill defined by the surrounding cards, it implies:

• Suggest confusion because of extreme mental activity producing conflicting thoughts.
•  Ambiguity and indecision.
• Mistrust.
• Skepticism.

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