By Lorraine Kemble
Image from the RWS Tarot
8. Strength
Rachel goes on safari to Kenya with some college friends. Under a golden sky, she gently pats a lion on its forehead and lower jaw. Rachel - with her newfound inner beauty, that seems to be building; gazes down at the lion with a peaceful smile on her face, and appears to be taming this beast. She never dreamt that this miraculous, calming instinct was one of her talents. She is learning reams about herself; whilst gaining that heartfelt quality: Strength. The fact that Strength is represented by a woman, indicates that this card is not merely focused on physical strength but there is a metaphysical quality in every relationship.
Rachel bears the infinity symbol above her head, the same symbol seen in The Magician. Her white robe represents innocence and purity of spirit as witnessed in The Fool. The mountain in the background is the same phallic symbol as seen in The Lovers card. The lion is a symbol of our animal passions and desires. Rachel overcomes the lion with a quiet strength, coming from within. Implicitly, the lion senses that Rachel is prepared to trust him. Her left arm represents mental effort, while the right arm represents physical effort; she wears a dress, standing unprotected, in a field. Rachel feels carefree now, wholly responsible for her actions, more than she ever remembers.
She loves holidaying with her friends, sharing physical work and meaningful conversations within the meadows, mountains and breathtaking scenery. At sunset, the group shares sacred rituals; like prayer, poetry, songs, and drumming. The crown of flowers, Rachel wears symbolize a meaningful expression of nature and ephemeral life.
The zodiac sign associated with Strength is Leo, whilst Rachel happens to be a rather typical Leo.
The planetary rulership is attributed to by the Sun, representing the ego, individuality and conscious will.
The previous installment can be found in the August 2019 issue of Tarot Reflections. Watch for the next installment in the October issue.