Gilded Tarot

IV - THE EMPEROR

In many ways the Emperor is the mirror image of the Empress. Perhaps most obvious is the reversal of their clothing's color. The passionate red of the Emperor's garment is external, as are his actions. He is surrounded not by the abstract glyph symbols of the Empress but by more realistic signs of the zodiac. He holds his representation of the solar system in his hand, showing a more external control than the Empress. While driven by love and a desire for what is best for everyone, as indicated by his blue undercloak, he is more concerned with the realistic functioning of everyday life. On a social level, he seeks to create stability so that society can reach its highest good. As a Father archetype, he wishes to give his children a strong foundation, allowing them to achieve their best.

The message of the Emperor is that of healthy stability. Create an environment that allows you to function at your best. Seek well-functioning order in your life in terms of your home, your workplace, and your relationships. Appreciate the rules of society that allow a smooth and peaceful life.

Be aware of stifling and stagnating rules and regulations. Creating order in your life simply for the sake of order alone is inhibiting, not liberating. Learn when it is time to question obligations and mores of society.