The Moon

Card Name:
The Moon
Arcana:
Major Arcana
Key Meaning:
intuition, dreams, the unconscious, mysteries
Reversed:
deception, distrust, confusion, fear
The Moon (The Moon) – a major arcana card, usually numbered 18. In the deck, it represents one of the most enigmatic cards and symbolizes the subconscious, intuition, and mystical and illogical aspects of human life.

Archetype of the Moon

The Moon is one of the oldest occult symbols. It regulated human life since the dawn of civilization—even the first calendar was based on the lunar cycle, and many magical rituals were tied to the Moon.
The Moon is the oldest occult symbol
The Moon is the oldest occult symbol
The Moon acts as a bridge between the real world and our subconscious. Its light side symbolizes imagination; its dark side represents nightmares and fears hidden behind the veil of dreams and the subconscious. Somewhere in between lies the true essence of the Moon card—illusions and fantasies that displace reality.

Symbolism of the Moon Card

The Moon card in the Waite deck is a profoundly deep and mysterious card, embodying numerous symbols and associations.

The card depicts the Moon, which in esotericism is usually linked to intuition, imagination, and the world of dreams. If you look closely, you can see it eclipses the Sun. Similarly, our subconscious fears and doubts can obscure the true essence of things. The Moon's eyes are closed—it resides in the realm of dreams.

Behind the Moon are two towers, representing the two sides of our personality: the conscious and the unconscious, also serving as gateways to the light. Between the towers flows a river, symbolizing the boundary between consciousness and the subconscious. The river can also symbolize the flow of time, which moves forward relentlessly.

At the bottom of the card, a crab emerges from the water. This symbolizes hidden fears that can surface and disrupt emotional balance. Additionally, the element of Water, like Cancer in astrology, is often associated with the unconscious.

One side of the card shows a dog, and the other—a wolf. They speak to the dual nature of the human personality and, again, the contrast between the conscious and the unconscious. The dog represents the part of ourselves we can control. The wolf, however, symbolizes instincts beyond our control.

Overall, the Moon card reminds us that not everything in life can be controlled—many aspects defy logic and are beyond our will, yet they must be acknowledged and respected. The card also urges us to listen to our intuition and not fear exploring our inner world and subconscious, but not to surrender to our instincts.

The Key Meaning of the Moon Card

The key meaning of the Major Arcana Moon outside the context of specific spreads is related to the subconscious and fantasies. It symbolizes what lies beyond our consciousness.
The Arcane Moon is Closely Connected with the Subconscious
The Arcane Moon is Closely Connected with the Subconscious
Additionally, the Moon card can indicate uncertainty, confusion, and unpredictability that may lead to difficulties and uncertainty. However, it's important to remember that the card following the Moon is the Sun, which illuminates the essence of things and dispels illusions.

The Moon is also connected to intuition and imagination. The card reminds us that not everything in life can be explained rationally, so we must trust our intuition and perceive the world on a deeper level.

Ultimately, the Moon card urges us to consider not only the obvious facts and external circumstances but also the hidden aspects of life that may influence our decisions and behavior. It reminds us of the need to listen to our inner feelings and not rely solely on logic and external signs.

The General Meaning of the Moon Card in the Upright Position

The Moon card in Tarot is one of the most mysterious cards, and its meaning can vary depending on the context of the spread. However, if the Moon card appears in the upright position, it generally has the following meaning:
  • Hidden aspects that may influence the current situation. Not all factors affecting the situation may be obvious or understandable, so it's important to listen to your intuition and feelings.
  • Ill-wishers hiding their true intentions: competitors, enemies, rivals.
  • Hidden obstacles that create difficulties. This can also be uncertainty that hinders decision-making.
  • Clairvoyance, prophetic gifts – now is the time to pay special attention to dreams and not ignore premonitions.
  • Spirituality. The Moon card reminds us that not everything in life is logical. Don't overlook the mystical aspects of life.
The Moon advises to listen to intuition
The Moon advises to listen to intuition
Tarot reader zoomboola.com believes the Moon card in the upright position calls for careful consideration and analysis of a complex situation, taking into account not only obvious factors but also premonitions and dreams.

General Meaning of The Moon Card in Reversed Position

In Tarot, the reversed Moon card can have the following meanings:
  • Uncertainty, ambiguity, and misunderstood words. The card can symbolize misunderstandings between people, lack of clarity, and hesitation before making an important decision.
  • Fears and doubts, hidden lack of confidence in one's abilities – you need to study the situation carefully and muster the courage.
  • Possibility of mistakes, misconceptions, and wrong assumptions. Not all factors have been considered; it may be necessary to review the decisions made.
  • False sense of security, presence of hidden problems. The Moon "casts a fog" and distorts reality.
  • Escaping reality, developing harmful habits, and addictions.
Overall, the reversed Moon card urges caution and vigilance. Do not make decisions without ensuring that the situation is truly as it seems. Now is not the time to expect real changes, as letting go of illusions can be very difficult.
The Inverted Moon Warns – Be Vigilant
The Inverted Moon Warns – Be Vigilant

The Meaning of the Moon Card in Love in Upright Position

When the Moon card appears in a love reading in the upright position, it can indicate the following:
  • The Moon card urges you to listen to your intuition and inner feelings, as not everything in the relationship may be clear and obvious.
  • The Moon is often associated with motherhood, so its appearance may predict an upcoming pregnancy, but it may come with complications.
  • Misunderstandings and hurt feelings may arise from miscommunication, misinterpretation of words, or excessive emotions.
  • Jealousy, unrequited love, and pain from a partner's indifference are likely imagined.
  • Uncertainty: The Moon card may indicate unpredictability in current relationships. Be prepared for surprises and changes.
Overall, the Moon card in a love reading urges you to pay closer attention to your inner feelings and remember that others' thoughts can be mysterious.
In love, the Moon often promises jealousy and suffering
In love, the Moon often promises jealousy and suffering

The Meaning of the Moon Card in Love in a Reversed Position

When the Moon card appears in a love reading in a reversed position, it can indicate the following meanings:
  • False illusions and incorrect perceptions about romantic relationships. It may symbolize unrealistic expectations and a wrong impression of a person.
  • Disappointment and unpleasant surprises in romantic relationships.
  • Doubts and uncertainty in feelings.
  • Hidden obstacles that can affect the relationship.
  • A high likelihood of mistakes and wrong decisions related to the union. It may symbolize our inability to understand complex emotional situations, as well as the presence of false perceptions about ourselves and our feelings.

The Moon as the Card of the Day

If the Moon card appears upright in the "Card of the Day" reading, its meaning could be as follows:
  • Intuition. The Moon card indicates the importance of listening to your intuition and feelings throughout the day. It may be helpful to pay more attention to your emotions to better understand yourself and your surroundings.
  • Creativity. The Moon card also symbolizes creativity and imagination. It may suggest an opportunity to express your creativity and imagination during the day, such as through drawing, music, or writing.
If the Moon card appears reversed in the "Card of the Day" reading, its meaning could be as follows:
  • Uncertainty. The current situation is too unclear to make well-considered decisions. It will be useful to clarify the situation and try to gather more information to avoid critical mistakes.
  • Hidden factors. The reversed Moon card may also symbolize the presence of hidden factors that could affect the current situation.

What the Moon Card Warns About

The Moon card may warn us to be more attentive and cautious regarding the current situation.
The Moon advises to be ready for changes and listen to yourself
The Moon advises to be ready for changes and listen to yourself
The Moon's advice may vary depending on the specific circumstances and context of the reading, but generally includes the following points:
  • Listen to your intuition and inner feelings to better understand yourself and your emotions.
  • Be prepared for surprises or sudden changes.
  • Examine the situation more closely to see the full picture and avoid mistakes.
  • Stay calm and composed, even if the current situation seems difficult or uncertain.