Side Notes
by BB Soto
The thoughts that don’t make the main text—but matter anyway ♥️
All Side Notes
Tarot Symbolism: The Hierophant
The triple crown, triple cross scepter, and crossed keys are all traditional regalia and insignia of the papal office. The crossed keys show that he sits on St. Peter's throne, referencing Jesus giving Peter the keys to the Church, and they remain part of the papacy's official emblem. Beyond these specific attributes, three small black crosses appear on his robe, and three figures appear in the scene. Anything in triplicate when it comes to Catholicism references one thing—the Holy Trinity. And though the concept of triplicity is deeply rooted in many mythologies and religions, its presentation in this image points to one thing—Catholic father of all the fathers.
Tarot Symbolism: Stars
For as long as humans have looked up at night to watch the twinkling lights glitter against the black backdrop of space, humans have wondered at them and ascribed them mystical significance. Many cultures across the globe, going back as far as the historical record allows, believed stars encapsulated our risen souls after death, or an unborn soul, and in some cases were thought to house angels or deities. Across the board, though, there has been an otherworldly idea of their existence.
Tarot Symbolism: Duality
In the Anglo-American tarot tradition, the Fool is the beginning and the end. Therefore the Fool is also neither the beginning nor the end.
The Magician points one hand skyward, another to the earth, all to illustrate that as above, so is below. The robed figure actively manifests awareness into reality. They are surrounded in earthy colors associated with consciousness, daytime, and masculine energy.