The Emperor

From...The Tarot Bible by Sarah Bartlett





KEY WORDS
Power, authority, father figure, leadership, the power of reason

KEY PHRASES
*Insensitivity to others, to their feelings and passions
*Assertive dogmatic thinking
*Orderly chaos
*Establishing laws or family values
*Taking control of a situation
*Structured thought
*Sticking to the rules

INTERPRETATION
This card represents the masculine principle, the archetype of authority, fatherhood and leadership. When your inner Emperor is activated, you are ambitious and can manage your affairs efficiently. When you draw this card in a "you now" position, you have authority and know what you want, but maybe you are too forceful and stubborn, always wanting everything your own way.

   In a question concerning partnership, it signifies that you have the will and the need to take control of the relationship. But It's time to keep personal feelings out of the firing line, and base your decisions on pure fact. As a "blockage" card, the Emperor reveals that someone in authority is preventing you from moving on, or that a lover or father figure won't listen to what you have to say.

   If you are asking a love related question, and this appears as a "future" card, the Emperor means you will be attracted to a strong, dominating person or a successful career go getter. Power trippers and cold hearted lovers are also signified---they may be reliable in bed or around the office, but you'll never know their true motives. If you are trying to find about a vocational issue, this card suggests that through self discipline and determination you will achieve your ambitions or goals.

   The Emperor reminds you that structure, organization and the rule book will get you the best results.