The Minor Arcana

  In our study of the occult meanings of the Tarot we now reach the Minor Arcana, of which the first in order of importance are the four aces. These, occultly, represent the power of the spirit acting in and binding together the four scales of each element. Each ace has rulership over an element.

They represent the radical forces that were said to be set at the Northern Pole of the universe, where they revolve, acting as a connecting link between the spiritual, creative, law-giving power of the universe working through its material planes.

     

   Yet, as study of the universal aspect of the four aces would lead us into abstruse studies, let us deal with them as occult forces which are concerned with the lore and laws governing our own planet and its peoples.

     

   The Ace of Wands is the root of the powers of fire, and has its dominion in the East. It symbolizes force as implied by strength, speed, vigour, and energy, and is connected with the life force and urge of everything created. It is a natural force, as opposed to an invoked force.

   Just as all life begins naturally, so has the Ace of Wands rulership over all natural life and development.

    In a Tarot spread it signifies just that, standing for the growth or development of anything. It corresponds to the first house of a horoscope.

[Prediction, July 1964]  Madeline Montalban

   This is what Madeline Montalban has written about the Ace of Wands. I respect her highly and hold her teachings in the highest esteem, but her and I differ on some things that I have come across.The one thing I disagree with in the above is attributing The Ace of Wands to the East unless she is using more of a zodiacal influence. I have always placed the Ace of Wands to the south based on an elemental correspondence. 

     Miss Montalban's writings on the Magical and Mystical Tarot can be found here. I encourage anyone who has a great interest in the Tarot for more than readings to visit Auntie Tarot's blog. She knows her Tarot and has been around for a long time which means she has a lot of wisdom.

Many Tarot Blessings!