The Chariot card shows us how to navigate through life by paying attention. Some people interpret this card as having a very active element of movement and adventure. My own emphasis is somewhat different. In my view, the Chariot is a card of slow and gradual movement. It is about using care and caution to move forward. You do this by bringing your whole self to each step you are taking, and being fully aware of each step. In this way this card is about mindfulness in motion. There is surely adventure to this card. Life is an adventure, and the adventure of life is made possible by the faculties of our perception. Through our perceptions we are able to move this life experience.
In Vedic astrology, the Chariot card corresponds with the sign of Cancer, a cardinal water sign ruled by the Moon. Cancer is the energetic field of the Moon in action in our lives. Remember that the Moon or Priestess card represents the ability to listen and perceive things as they are. The Chariot takes this ability of true perception and uses it to help us find our way through life. The Chariot carries our home with us through life. Our perceptions are like a wondrous vessel that carries our consciousness through our life experience. I like to think of the Chariot as a glorious dream ship. Just like the nurturing energy of the maternal Moon, this ship holds us and gently guides us through life.
In my unique understanding of Toltec shamanism, the Chariot is one of four gateway cards. Specifically, it is the gateway of the west. In European shamanism, this direction relates to the element of water. In this schematic, the gateway of the west card is the gateway between the masteries of awareness and transformation. It shows the completion of the mastery of awareness. The Chariot card depicts a being with clear perception. It is the energy of full awareness that allows us to pay attention within and without. It is this energy that helps us navigate through life.
Find the Chariot card in your favorite tarot deck, and place it somewhere you will see it. Bring the energy of the Chariot into all aspects of your life.
Next: Strength
(c) 2004 by David Ray
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