The Art of Cartomancy
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Derived from the late- 19th century French word for card; "carte,” and the suffix for divination or magic, “mancy.”
The History of Playing Cards
While the terminology for card divination is rather new, the entire history of playing cards could be traced farther back in time! The earliest record of this invention suggests that it has existed in China since the 9th century, during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), around the time when woodblock printing was invented as well. Thereafter during the 11th century, playing cards were introduced to nearby countries and spread across the Asian continent, and then Egypt. The latter region, is where the ancestor of our modern day playing card and Tarot deck was created.
The World of Playing Cards states:
"The early history of cards in Western Europe was related to the invasion of North Africa, Spain and Sicily by Islamic forces during the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt."
Hence, these cards have likely been introduced to the European continent during 14th century through military interaction and established trade routes.
The suits of the Mamluk cards consists of cups, polo-sticks, coins, and swords (13 each, including 3 court cards: the King, Lieutenant and Second Lieutenant). These suits are still seen in traditional Latin cards, however as they spread to other European nations such as Italy, Germanic countries, and France, the suits were replaced with hearts, clubs, diamonds, and spades. Moreover during the 14th century, the Mamluk court cards were replaced with European royalty and its attendants.
*I wanted to highlight the colonial history of card reading, as it is important to bring attention to the foundations of our spiritual practices in order to de-mystify or de-colonize our understanding of traditional interpretations.
The History of Fortune-Telling
"From the 16th to the 18th centuries, Spanish sources offered a lot of information about cartomantic and magical uses of playing cards, where they had been incorporated into the healer's repertoire of methods."
Originally, cartomancy was practiced through the use of the standard 52 playing card deck. Thereafter in the 16th century, the 32-card Piquet striped deck was introduced to France as a game. This specific deck did not include the 2-6 pips, only leaving the aces, 7 through 10s, and court cards. This is where Lenormand comes in... the 36-card deck which Marie Anne Lenormand (1772–1843) adopted from the Game of Hope (Das Spiel der Hoffnung), designed by Johann Kaspar Hechtel in 1799. Here, this deck includes the number 6 pips compared to the Piquet deck, where they were originally omitted.
Now why did Mademoiselle Lenormand adopt this deck? It's uncertain. However, the famed fortune-teller was known to have used her fortune-telling skills with this deck on renowned clients, influencing the 18th century's wave of interest in divination across France.
What about Tarot? While we have established that there was evidence of Tarot cards in Europe during the 14th century, the earliest documentation of using Tarot cards as divination was in fact recorded in an anonymous manuscript from 1750, for the Tarocco Bolognese deck. Later on in 1780's France, the Tarot was popularized by occultists: Antoine Court (1725–1784) and Jean-Baptiste Alliette (1738–1791), who both published their findings on the techniques of reading the Tarot de Marseilles.
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Suits & Pips
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The suits of playing cards are the identifying symbols, whereas pips specify the rank of the card based on the number or court. Metasymbology further specifies:
"The meaning of the suits categorize the four key areas of life: Emotional, Mental, Material, and Physical, further divided into subcategories to include every aspect of life."
As we further explore each suit meaning, we will see how these cartomancy interpretations have influenced both Lenormand and Tarot practices. However, we can certainly note a few differences as well. A good example that has been highlighted by Layla the Lenormand Reader, is that...
"The meaning of the clubs (fire, wands) and the spades (air, swords) are reversed in the Lenormand"
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*Please note that I will not include physical significations to the court cards, especially after we have learned that these cards were representations of European royalty. Therefore, it is very likely that many resources would attribute Eurocentric features to the Jacks, Queens, and Kings.
Hence, when we read for BIPOCs... the interpretations will not be accurate. Instead, we can generalize the signifier's traits based on the card's suit element and whether or not they are represented as young (ie. a Jack or Joker) or whether they have more masculine vs. feminine "energy" (ie. a Queen or King). — The interpretations below are based on my own research, curated keywords, and understanding of each card reading system:
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Joker 🃏
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In cartomancy, the Joker is not included by all readers, especially since the card itself was not introduced to the standard 52 playing card deck until the 1860s. Those who do include the Joker in cartomancy readings, see him as a special sign, as many readers attribute him to the number 0, and associate him with the Fool card in Tarot. Hence, the Joker is someone who represents naïvety, the beginning of a journey, and childish joy.
According to Anna K. Lenormand, the Joker is not in conventional Lenormand decks... but when he appears, he is a Wild Card or signifier of an androgynous individual.
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Hearts ♥
Represents emotions, partnerships, relationships, family matters, and love. Associated with the Water element, and also corresponds to the Cups suit in Tarot.
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Ace of Hearts
Also known as the Ace of Cups in Tarot, and found on the Man in Lenormand. Associated with beginnings related to love and relationships, a creative endeavour, and positive emotions.
In Lenormand, this card could refer to a person who identifies as a man (or masculinity) who is involved in the querent's life. The involvement does not have to be romantic, however there is an indication that they are important.
2 of Hearts
Also known as the Two of Cups in Tarot. Associated with a union, success in love and relationships, as well as a heart-to-heart connection.
3 of Hearts
Also known as the Three of Cups in Tarot. While in Tarot, this card refers to a friendship, celebration, and creative collaborations... the original cartomancy interpretation of this card suggests that this is an indicator of a new relationship that requires caution.
4 of Hearts Also known as the Four of Cups in Tarot. In Tarot, this card would often refer to apathy, contemplation, or emotional stagnancy. However, the original cartomancy interpretation of this card refers to change that is approaching or a return of a past lover.
5 of Hearts
Also known as the Five of Cups in Tarot. The Tarot meaning of this card references disappointment, regret or failure, whereas the original cartomancy interpretation suggests that there is jealousy or resentment in the air.
6 of Hearts
Also known as the Six of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Stars in Lenormand. Associated with an unexpected, new relationship with someone who is potentially a soulmate or past life lover.
In Tarot specifically, this card would reference nostalgia and the childhood as well. I'd also like to note that 6s in Lenormand refer to commitment, attainment, and transcendence. Hence, there is likely a wish fulfillment since this card is moreover connected to the Star.
7 of Hearts
Also known as the Seven of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Tree in Lenormand. Associated with new opportunities, choices, and illusion in Tarot, however is noted as steady and peaceful in the original cartomancy interpretation. It moreover refers to a second chance at an opportunity as well, so perhaps this could connect back to the Tarot's meaning. The querent could either achieve peace or more confusion depending on whether they take a new or old opportunity.
In Lenormand, the number 7 refers to an communication, assessment or reminder. Connected to the Tree, there is a spiritual aspect to this card that asks the querent to view everything in a more holistic perspective.
8 of Hearts
Also known as the Eight of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Moon in Lenormand. In the original cartomancy interpretation, this card either refers to working through one's emotions with another person or having an unexpected visitor. Connected to the imagery in the Tarot card, the interpretation is that there is a withdrawal, disappointment or abandonment of emotions.
In Lenormand however, the number 8 is about status, community and resolution. Connected to the Moon, it speaks to the exploration of emotions and the subconsciousness. Hence, this card could suggest a need to look inwards and to actually feel or connect with another person rather than ignoring them.
9 of Hearts
Also known as the Nine of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Rider in Lenormand. Associated with a wish fulfillment, pure joy and accomplishing one's desires.
However in the Lenormand interpretation, the number 9 represents stillness or movement, transaction, and conclusion. Connected to the Rider, there is a message of a delay being released. Blessings are arriving to the querent, and they will finally have a moment to experience the ride of happiness.
10 of Hearts
Also known as the Ten of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Dog in Lenormand. Associated with success, emotional fulfillment, and good fortune. Including the interpretation of the Tarot, there's a possibility that community or family plays a significant role in the querent's achievements or supports them through celebration and joy.
In the Lenormand, the number 10 signifies guidance, connection, and mentorship. Connected to the Dog, there is a likelihood that the persons represented by this card are loyal to the querent.
Jack of Hearts
Also known as the Page of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Heart in Lenormand. Associated with a water sign: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. This person is likely youthful and may identify with masculine energy. They are also likely someone who is close to the querent. When interpreting situations, this suggests imagination, creativity, and sensitivity.
In Tarot, this card specifically refers to a message that is unexpected, and related to emotions. Moreover in Lenormand, the Jack refers to excitement, inexperience, or plenty of energy. Since this card is connected to the Heart, it could specifically refer to a "crush."
Queen of Hearts
Also known as the Queen of Cups in Tarot, and found on The Stork in Lenormand. Associated with a water sign: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. This person is likely nurturing, creative, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a maternal or feminine energy.
In Tarot, this card further speaks of intuition and sensitive or psychic abilities. Moreover in Lenormand, the Queen refers to resources and motives. Hence its connection to the Stork in this card may also suggest that this person is someone who will help the querent in any way they can emotionally. When interpreting a situation, this card refers to transformations and transitions.
King of Hearts
Also known as the King of Cups in Tarot, and found on The House in Lenormand. Associated with a water sign: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. This person is likely nurturing, creative, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a paternal or masculine energy. In Tarot, this card speaks of someone who is emotionally balanced, diplomatic, and compassionate. Moreover in Lenormand, the King refers to dominion and control. Hence, its connection to the House in this card suggests that there is safeness, security, and tradition either in this situation or ingrained in the personality of the signifier.
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Clubs ♣
Represents your business and social life, luck, accomplishments, and growth. Associated with the Fire element, and also corresponds to the Wands suit in Tarot.
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Ace of Clubs
Also known as the Ace of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Ring in Lenormand. Associated with a new beginning related to a business venture, important legal process or signing of a contract. The Tarot interpretation adds that there is success that leads to passion and expansive growth.
In Lenormand, the Ring refers to commitments, agreements, and civil unions. Hence, the message is that this spark of love or creativity is capable of turning into something worthwhile. 2 of Clubs Also known as the Two of Wands in Tarot. Associated with a new social or business correspondence. In the original cartomancy interpretation, it's also suggested that this venture could lead to gossip.
In the Tarot meaning of this card however, there is no mention of gossip, however there is a suggestion that the querent is beginning to realize their long-term goals and is planning on moving forward with them. There may also be an indication of needing to choose between two ideas as well.
3 of Clubs
Also known as the Three of Wands in Tarot. Associated with an advancement or teamwork involving 3 people. The Tarot interpretation adds that this card refers to expansion and foresight. There's a potential for overseas opportunities or freedom in the near future.
4 of Clubs
Also known as the Four of Wands in Tarot. This one is quite interesting because the interpretation in the original cartomancy and Tarot are polar opposites. The former refers to possible backstabbing from an unexpected place or person, whereas the latter represents celebration, stability, and even family. It's a card of community and relationships, however in reverse it could definitely represent a lack of support.
5 of Clubs
Also known as the Five of Wands in Tarot. In the Tarot interpretation, this card often depicts conflict, tension, and competition. While the original cartomancy interpretation refers to an involvement of other people, it suggests a change in the work environment or meeting a new friend rather than trouble. Hence, there's a possibility that this card may have an underlying theme of overcoming conflict in order to create friendships and positive change.
6 of Clubs
Also known as the Six of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Cross in Lenormand. Associated with success and a completion of a project or a goal. The Tarot interpretation adds that recognition and self-confidence is likely.
In Lenormand, 6s refer to commitment, attainment, and transcendence. However, combined with the Cross, there is duty, conviction, burden. Hence, there's a strong underlying message that the suffering of an individual often goes unacknowledged when they are adored for their accomplishments. Alternatively on a more positive note, the message may suggest that hard work pays off!
7 of Clubs
Also known as the Seven of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Mice in Lenormand. Associated with changes in a business or social matter that requires detail. In Tarot, the interpretation adds that there must be perseverance and protection of oneself when undergoing challenges.
In Lenormand, 7s represent communications, assessments, and reminders. Connected with the Mice, there is a message about destruction or depletion. Hence, there is a strong likelihood that this card speaks upon paying more attention to one's physical health or even fighting through conflict in order to improve.
8 of Clubs
Also known as the Eight of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Mountain in Lenormand. Associated with potential difficulties in one's work or career path. The Tarot card may suggest otherwise since it could refer to excitement and passion. However, if there are any difficulties, it could involve communications, travel or a sudden change.
In Lenormand, 8s represent status, community, and resolution. Combined with the Mountain card, there is a strong indication that the querent will need to be aware of delays or obstacles that are in their way. Imagine using the wands or clubs to destroy a mountain— after it tumbles down, you will surely find the drive to reach the top.
9 of Clubs
Also known as the Nine of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Fox in Lenormand. The original cartomancy interpretation suggests that this card is associated with good luck and new opportunities. However, as seen in the Tarot interpretation, there must be resilience, courage, and steadiness. In Lenormand, 9s represent movement or stillness, transactions, and conclusions. Hence, the combination of the Fox surely suggests that the querent must take caution in their path through self-care and learning from past interactions.
10 of Clubs
Also known as the Ten of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Bear in Lenormand. Associated with travel that may involve a business. In Tarot specifically, this card depicts an individual who is burdened by carrying many wands. Hence this may indicate extra responsibilities and hard work that is on the horizon.
In Lenormand, 10s represent connections, guidance, and mentorship. Connected with the Bear, there is a very clear indication that there is someone in the picture who has power, authority, and strength.
Jack of Clubs
Also known as the Page of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Whip in Lenormand. Associated with a fire sign: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. This person is likely youthful and may identify with masculine energy. They are also likely someone who is close to the querent, perhaps at work. When interpreting situations, this card suggests sincerity, bright ideas, passion, and adventure.
In Tarot, this card specifically refers to a message that is swift, and related to a venture. Moreover in Lenormand, the Jack refers to excitement, inexperience, or plenty of energy. Since this card is connected to the Whip, it could specifically refer to a "fling" or a connection that goes through rounds of conflict and resolution. Otherwise, this may describe someone who can have a lot of energy that could lead to impulsivity or hurting themselves.
Queen of Clubs
Also known as the Queen of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Snake in Lenormand. Associated with a fire sign: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. This person is likely someone in business, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a maternal or feminine energy.
In Tarot, this card further speaks of vivaciousness and chaos. Moreover in Lenormand, the Queen refers to resources and motives. Hence its connection to the Snake in this card may also suggest that this person is someone who is fiercely confident, assertive, and attractive. When interpreting a situation, this card refers to making quick decisions and taking charge.
King of Clubs
Also known as the King of Wands in Tarot, and found on The Clouds in Lenormand. Associated with a fire sign: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. This individual is likely a successful a business person that is self-confident, expressive, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a paternal or masculine energy. In Tarot, this card speaks of someone who is very action-oriented, confident, and loyal. Moreover in Lenormand, the King refers to dominion and control. Hence, its connection to the Clouds in this card suggests that there is a possibility that their aggression or dominance could cloud their mind from making clear decisions at times.
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Diamonds ♦
Represents your money, financial status, success, recognition, and rewards. Associated with the Earth element, and also corresponds to the Pentacles suit in Tarot.
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Ace of Diamonds
Also known as the Ace of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on the The Sun in Lenormand. Associated with a new beginning related to materiality, finances, a message, a gift or even an engagement. In the Tarot interpretation, this is a sign of a commitment that will provide the querent with victory, success, and joy, just as depicted in the Lenormand's Sun.
2 of Diamonds
Also known as the Two of Pentacles in Tarot. In the original cartomancy interpretation, this card refers to making and receiving payments, and/or disapproval. Adding the Tarot interpretation, there is a message about finding a balance in being resourceful and flexible throughout the ups and downs of life... or more specifically in one's bank account.
3 of Diamonds
Also known as the Three of Pentacles in Tarot. While the original cartomancy interpretation suggests that there's a lack of focus and/or issues with instability or legal matters— the Tarot interpretation is much more positive. Apprenticeship, learning, and teamwork is depicted here. Hence, the combination of these interpretations may highlight a need for support and mentorship in order to remain stable in one's path towards success.
4 of Diamonds
Also known as the Four of Pentacles in Tarot. The original cartomancy interpretation refers to this card as an unexpected gift, payment, or an achievement of financial stability. In the Tarot interpretation, it is rather suggested that the querent is holding onto their possessions, people, or a situation that is deemed valuable to them. Potentially, this could cause them to have a lack of openness for new opportunities to come into fruition.
5 of Diamonds
Also known as the Five of Pentacles in Tarot. Interestingly, the interpretations of both the original cartomancy and Tarot have contrasting messages. The former refers to positive energy through the involvement of one's personal space, such as the home or workplace, whereas the latter represents a loss in faith, resources, and bad luck. Therefore, this card may have a special underlying message concerning the need to revamp one's space in order to freshen their perspective on life.
6 of Diamonds
Also known as the Six of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Clover in Lenormand. In the original cartomancy interpretation, this card refers to poor communication or relationship issues, potentially related to money. However, in the Tarot interpretation, this card refers to the act of giving and receiving, charity or finding a balance.
In Lenormand, 6s refer to commitment, attainment, and transcendence. However combined with Clover, there is a clear indication that taking the opportunity to be compassionate towards one another will lend good luck and karma to one's relationships.
7 of Diamonds
Also known as the Seven of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Birds in Lenormand. The original cartomancy interpretation suggests that the querent has earned success or financial achievement. In the Tarot interpretation however, there is still waiting involved before the querent finds their hard work paying off and manifesting.
In Lenormand, 7s represent communications, assessments, and reminders. Connected with the Birds, there is an indication that anxieties should be relieved once the querent has surely worked hard enough to achieve their goals. Restlessness should be avoided in order to prevent self-sabotaging!
8 of Diamonds
Also known as the Eight of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Key in Lenormand. In the original cartomancy interpretation, this card suggests that the querent should take caution or time to plan. However, this meaning is actually a lot more aligned with the Tarot's Seven of Pentacles since the Eight of Pentacles here is meant to depict hard work, craftmanship, and dedication.
In Lenormand, 8s represent status, community, and resolution. Combined with the Key suggests that the querent may unlock greater qualifications and achievements through keeping an open mind during their training or experiences.
9 of Diamonds
Also known as the Nine of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Coffin in Lenormand. Associated with a surprise payment, bonus or compensation. The Tarot interpretation further refers to a collection of investments, retirement, and even abundance through hard work.
In Lenormand, 9s represent movement or stillness, transactions, and conclusions. Hence, the combination of the Coffin suggests that there may be material growth through a situation involving a sudden death (whether literally or figuratively, it depends). Another interpretation may be related to finding a safe or hidden money or valuables.
10 of Diamonds
Also known as the Ten of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Book in Lenormand. Associated with success, prosperity, good fortune, and wealth. In the Tarot interpretation, this luck specifically comes from the material support of one's community, family or business partners.
In Lenormand, 10s represent connections, guidance, and mentorship. Connected with the Book, this situation may specifically refer to educational matters that help the querent advance in their reputation. A more literal interpretation would be a graduate who is being celebrated at their convocation.
Jack of Diamonds
Also known as the Page of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Scythe in Lenormand. Associated with an earth sign: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. This person is likely youthful and may identify with masculine energy. They are also likely someone who the querent may need to be wary of... due to their unreliability or inexperience.
In Tarot, this card specifically refers to a message that references a need to lay down foundations and practicality. Moreover in Lenormand, the Jack refers to excitement, inexperience, or plenty of energy. Since this card is connected to the Scythe, it could specifically refer to a situation or involvement with a person that was hasty or unplanned. Hence, there may be a severance of a connection due to flakiness.
Queen of Diamonds
Also known as the Queen of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Crossroads in Lenormand. Associated with an earth sign: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. This person is likely someone who is successfully well off, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a maternal or feminine energy.
In Tarot, this card further speaks of prosperity, security, and nurturing. Moreover in Lenormand, the Queen refers to resources and motives. Hence, its connection to the Crossroads in this card may also suggest that this person is someone who often makes decisions, has a great sense of direction in life, and is also very determined.
King of Diamonds
Also known as the King of Pentacles in Tarot, and found on The Fish in Lenormand. Associated with an earth sign: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. This person is likely of wealth or well-accomplished, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a paternal or masculine energy. In Tarot, this card speaks of someone who is very practical, grounded, and dependable. Moreover in Lenormand, the King refers to dominion and control. Hence, its connection to the Fish in this card suggests that this person may be someone who specifically works with the financial industry, or is someone who is simply very accustomed to the material world. In a situation, this card suggests that the querent should focus on their hard work in order to see rewarding results.
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Spades ♠
Represents your challenges, secrets, obstacles, conflicts, and setbacks. Associated with the Air element, and also corresponds to the Swords suit in Tarot.
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Ace of Spades
Also known as the Ace of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Lady in Lenormand. In the original cartomancy interpretation, the meaning of this card is a lot closer to the Tarot Death card, as it signifies both a new beginning and ending. However, another interpretation is that there is an important decision that could cause anxiety in the querent. Contrarily, the Tarot interpretation suggests that rather than worrying, the querent will experience mental clarity or communication! Believe that you will make the right decision. In Lenormand, this card could refer to a person who identifies as a woman (or femininity) who is involved in the querent's life. The involvement is likely impactful to their mental state or path.
2 of Spades
Also known as the Two of Swords in Tarot. Associated with disagreement, conflict, separation or even bad news. The Tarot interpretation further specifies that the querent needs to face their fears in order to see reality. There's a possibility of betrayal or being torn between two people or decisions that needs to be resolved eventually.
3 of Spades
Also known as the Three of Swords in Tarot. Associated with deception, lies, cheating, loss, and misunderstandings. In the Tarot interpretation, this card is a well-known representation of a heart break or third party situation. Betrayal and depression is quite evident when this card shows up in a reading.
4 of Spades
Also known as the Four of Swords in Tarot. Associated with confinement, sickness, and feeling exhausted. In the Tarot interpretation, there is a depiction of solitude and a need for rest. Hence, it's quite likely that the querent will need to find ways to seek peace or guidance.
5 of Spades
Also known as the Five of Swords in Tarot. Associated with separations, abandonment, loss, and sorrow. The Tarot interpretation further suggests that the querent must accept defeat and surrender to the circumstances. Otherwise, if surrounding cards support this, the 5 of Spades or Swords may specifically speak of a confrontation that must be overcome through self-defense rather than avoidance.
6 of Spades
Also known as the Six of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Tower in Lenormand. Associated with a completion or permanent ending that results in a new beginning. The Tarot interpretation adds that the querent is likely moving away from rocky waters and into a calmer flow of energy.
In Lenormand, 6s refer to commitment, attainment, and transcendence. However combined with the Tower, this situation may involve a need for isolation, asserting oneself, and allowing space for self-reflection.
7 of Spades
Also known as the Seven of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Letter in Lenormand. Associated with bad luck, addiction, loss, and setbacks. The Tarot interpretation further depicts potential theft, trickery, and quick-wit.
In Lenormand, 7s represent communications, assessments, and reminders. Connected with the Letter, there may be a situation that involves the law or simply a delayed assessment of a project, exam, interview or other serious matter that requires a rational process.
8 of Spades
Also known as the Eight of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Garden in Lenormand. Associated with anger, imbalances, disappointments, or wounds. The Tarot interpretation furthermore suggests that there are restrictions, deniability, and even anxieties being involved in this situation.
In Lenormand, 8s represent status, community, and resolution. Combined with the Garden, there is a possibility that the querent may be struggling with being perceived due to past experiences. Otherwise, there may be a situation that involves the public eye that the querent refuses to acknowledge or is overlooking.
9 of Spades
Also known as the Nine of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Anchor in Lenormand. Associated with failure, sadness, grief, and injury. The Tarot further adds the interpretation of an overwhelming focus on the past that could cause mental anguish and fear.
In Lenormand, 9s represent movement or stillness, transactions, and conclusions. Hence, the combination of the Anchor suggests that the querent should remain steadfast despite the challenges they are facing. The message here is to settle down into faith that the situation will get better. Alternatively, this card may also want to advise the querent that jumping into conclusions will only make things worse.
10 of Spades
Also known as the Ten of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Ship in Lenormand. Associated with misfortune, tragedy, and darkness. The Tarot interpretation moreover adds that there is backstabbing, enemies, and exhaustion involved in this matter.
In Lenormand, 10s represent connections, guidance, and mentorship. Connected with the Ship, there is a very strong message that the querent should move on and distance themselves from the situation in order to grow healthily, especially concerning their mental state of mind. A specific suggestion from this card is to seek someone who can help rather than allowing yourself to suffer alone.
Jack of Spades
Also known as the Page of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Child in Lenormand. Associated with an air sign: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. This person is likely youthful and may identify with masculine energy. They are also likely someone who the querent may need to be wary of... due to their erratic nature or immaturity.
In Tarot, this card specifically refers to a message that is delayed, and will require patience or inspiration. Moreover in Lenormand, the Jack refers to excitement, inexperience, or plenty of energy. Since this card is connected to the Child, it could specifically refer to a situation or involvement with a person that is quite new and needs a little more time to develop into something more worthwhile. This is the "talking stage."
Queen of Spades
Also known as the Queen of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Bouquet in Lenormand. Associated with an air sign: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. This person is likely someone who is intelligent, cunning, divorced or widowed, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a maternal or feminine energy.
In Tarot, this card further speaks of communicativeness, independence, and problem solving. Moreover in Lenormand, the Queen refers to resources and motives. Hence its connection to the Bouquet in this card may also suggest that this person is someone who is very eloquent and has a sharp-wit and tongue that could easily win people over.
King of Spades
Also known as the King of Swords in Tarot, and found on The Lilies in Lenormand. Associated with an air sign: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. This person is likely of authority who may be widowed, divorced, and potentially older than the querent or otherwise mature. They may also be someone who identifies with a paternal or masculine energy. In Tarot, this card speaks of someone who is very quick-witted, disciplined, and stern. Moreover in Lenormand, the King refers to dominion and control. Hence, its connection to the Lilies in this card suggests that this person may have plenty of wisdom, mental clarity, and is well established in their field of work.
