Guiding words/ideas:
Power; complexity of human beings; encouragement to use power justly; caution around aspiration and disconnection.
Channeled guidance:
The Emperor, in balance, is one who uses their power justly, generously, and for the betterment of all beings. This card has three strong images laid over each other: a ram, a ladder, and smoke in the sky. These symbols speak to power, the complex nature of human beings, and caution around how these elements work together.
The ram is alluring, with a calm expression and curved horns full of color and patterns. The ram is powerful, and in this moment that power is beautiful. They inspire awe, as do many of the magnificent creatures that live on this planet. This ram is not using its horns to hurt or maim. And so we can appreciate their power without feeling fearful. The ladder invites us to climb, but there is smoke at the top of the ladder cautioning that danger might be present there.
Human beings are complex animals… animals with a very confusing consciousness full of aspiration, doubt, societal expectations, and roles. A human with power can be tempted to climb the ladder, to both see what is at the top and also to be above other beings. This becomes dangerous. When one climbs in this way, one loses connection to other beings.
This card is an invitation to examine these questions: How can you rehumanize yourself? How can you free your essential and intuitive self from the oppressive systems in which you live? How can you connect with other beings on this planet?
Plant and metal guidance:
Goldenrod, darkened by mordant (light brown/tan ram body): Our tiny, golden, blossoms create needed halos around fields and open spaces. You can allow our energy to bring divine energy to your open spaces as well, to rest in your auras and to bring you light and hope.
Wild grape (purple horns and ladder): We are the bubbly magicians of the edges (of forests, our fields and our minds). We share with you our positivity, creativity and trickster capabilities.
Black walnut (dark brown smoke): The strength of our magic lies in our ability to clear space and provide opportunities for recharging and resetting.
Copper Oxide (light blue on the ladder): I magnify the properties of whatever plants I touch or impact.
*Note from Jorie: Although channeled, the artistic inclusion of a ladder was clearly influenced by the influence of the teachings of Sonya Renee Taylor.
Magical Nature Tarot 
