The "Eights" in the Tarot Deck are often associated
with strength. ("Strength" is Card
No.8 in the Major Arcana). Some situations require courage and the
cards numbered 8 in the Minor Arcana concern taking the necessary action
- even when to do so may be difficult.
The Eight of Swords may be dramatically illustrated: The Rider-Waite and Robin
Wood Decks both depict a young woman who is blindfold and has
her arms bound to her sides standing at a waters edge surrounded
by eight swords positioned upright with their sharp points buried
in the sand (or mud). In the case of the Robin Wood deck
there are also dark clouds above.
These images may appear to be negative and threatening but it is
also immediately apparent that there is nothing stopping the woman
from walking away from the swords and the water's edge. Perhaps she
believes herself to be trapped - but this is not the case.
This card invites the seeker to consider how he/she arrived at the
present situation - or his/her current values and perspective. Are
they still appropriate ?
If not ... then change must come from the self. |
