Comparative Tarot

Combat of Skill: This card shows a rather repulsive woman whose body is covered by sores. She sits with her legs spread and a cauldron sitting between them. Her right hand sits on the water in the cauldron while her left hand rests on her knee. In the distance we see five figures gathered around a blazing fire. A crescent moon hangs in the night sky.

The Book says: This card is the story of Niall and his four brothers, sons of King Eochaid. While out hunting they needed to find water. Each brother went in search of water but came back empty-handed and embarrassed. Finally Niall the youngest went in search of water. He found a well guarded by an ugly hag. She refused to allow Niall access to the water unless he gave her a kiss. Niall agreed and as he embraced the hag she turned into the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. She was the Goddess of Sovereignty and granted Niall and his descendants his father's throne.

Keywords: Arguments, Rivalry, Disagreements, Conflict, Over defensive mechanisms disrupt things, Competitiveness, Obstacles to be overcome, Negative energy.

Reversed: Long-term disputes, Contradictions, Complex factors confuse issues, Do not let others call the shots.

Soul-Wisdom: Within every dispute there is a solution, if we can set aside our personal point of view and see the whole overview. What is the kernel of truth and balance within your present dilemma?

My Turn: To me this card represents putting off the inevitable, fighting a useless battle for no reason. Just as Niall's brothers refused to kiss the hag (which one would have eventually had to do if Niall didn't or they would have all dehydrated) they preferred to hold on to their dignity. It was truly a pointless fight. There comes a time when you do what is necessary to survive and to hell with dignity. This card also represents the concept of not judging a book by its cover. When we try to cling to the perceptions of others and don't live our lives according to our own inner beliefs we are creating a conflict within ourselves. I see this card as showing that things are not always what they seem and unless we take that first step to unmask it, we'll never know the truth. Questioning beliefs you were raised with can lead to serious conflicts both within ourselves and with our loved ones. But if we never challenge what we are taught, we cannot grow and move on to the next level.

Bees Blessings
Debbie