advanced tarot interpretation

The Meaning of "The World" Tarot Card

The Symbolism of the Tarot Card:

The four figures that appeared in the corners of the Wheel of Fortune card appear in the same corners of the World card. These are the manifestations of the four evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, also Ezekiel's creatures. Here they are depicted in a more noble manner than they were painted in the Wheel of Fortune card.

Here they are meant again to underscore the divinity of the vision in the card.

The central figure in the card is the World Dancer. The hermaphroditic figure holds two wands in both hands and has a look of utter peace and contentment. This card is a celebration of the unified spirit.

A wreath, presumably one of victory, encompasses the dancer.

The Meaning of the Tarot Card:

Completeness. Despite the journey being over and the task being done, the dance of life and spirit continues.

Divinity and spirit are interwoven in the figure of the World Dancer with worldly desires and pleasures, as both have been successfully unified through the journey of the Fool through the tarot.

It has been suggested that the figure in this card is hermaphroditic, evoking Shiva, Hindu lord of the Cosmic Dance. Shiva is also depicted with one foot down, or grounded in material reality, and the other foot being raised, or in the world of spirit. The arms are left open to encompass all experience.

The wands that the dancer holds are the same as the wand in the Magician card - only here the Dancer is dancing with the cosmic energies playfully, rather than trying to command them or channel them. There is a lightness and a grace to the dance and the dancer.

Success, achievement, and satisfaction in all endeavors. Spiritual fulfillment. An excellent and fitting end to a long journey or long-standing situation. A spiritual journey has ended in joy and the infusion of spirit into every aspect of the individual's life. New understanding.