Solar eclipses are potent cosmic events that mark periods of transformation, revelations, and change. In astrology, they often signal turning points and the unveiling of truths that may have been hidden. When paired with tarot, eclipses provide a unique opportunity to gain insight into the shifts occurring within and around us. This article explores how to use tarot during eclipses, offering tips on interpreting the cards and aligning readings with the powerful energy of these celestial events.
Eclipses occur in two forms: solar and lunar. Each type brings its own distinct energy, which influences the themes of tarot readings. A Solar Eclipse represents new beginnings, fresh starts, and unexpected opportunities. It is a time to set intentions and welcome transformations. Conversely, a Lunar Eclipse highlights endings, emotional revelations, and releasing what no longer serves you. It is a powerful time for closure and self-reflection. Eclipses amplify energy, making them ideal for deep, introspective tarot readings. However, they can also feel intense and chaotic, so approaching readings with patience and an open heart is recommended.
Understanding Solar Eclipse Energy
A Solar Eclipse occurs during a New Moon when the Sun, Moon, and Earth align perfectly. The Moon's shadow falls on the Earth, creating temporary darkness during the day. This celestial event is viewed as one of the most powerful cosmic moments for new beginnings and destiny activation. When the Moon passes between the Earth and Sun, blocking the solar light, a portal opens for radical fresh starts, soul-level initiations, and destiny shifts. Unlike the Lunar Eclipse, which releases the past, the Solar Eclipse propels individuals into the future.
Solar Eclipse qualities include intensified New Moon energy, destiny activation and soul calling, radical fresh starts and rebirth, power reclamation and sovereignty, fated new paths opening, and identity transformation. The period between eclipses is known as Eclipse Season—a time of accelerated destiny activation. This time is best suited for major new beginnings, starting fresh, activating destiny, reclaiming power, identity transformation, and soul-level initiations. It is not recommended for releasing the past, casual intentions, or surface-level goals.
Preparing for an Eclipse Tarot Reading
To align tarot practice with eclipse energy, specific steps can be taken to prepare. Reflecting on what one wants to explore during the reading is a foundational step. Setting an intention helps focus the energy and provides clarity for the session. The Solar Eclipse is always a New Moon, occurring when the Moon is conjunct the Sun. This happens when they are in the same general place on the zodiacal wheel as each other in the sky from the Earth's perspective.
Solar Eclipse Tarot Spreads
Several tarot spreads are designed specifically to harness the energy of a Solar Eclipse. These spreads help individuals step into their destiny, reclaim their power, and birth a new version of themselves.
The Seven-Card Solar Eclipse Spread
This spread is arranged to honor the eclipse alignment and destiny activation energy.
Position 1: What's Being Eclipsed - Old Identity This card reveals what old identity or self is being eclipsed. It shows the version of yourself that is ending, the old identity being left behind, what is being obscured or removed, and the past self fading. The eclipse obscures the old, and this position shows what is ending.
Position 2: Shadow Integration - Darkness to Light This card shows what shadow material is being integrated into the new self. It indicates shadow aspects becoming conscious, darkness being brought into light, disowned power being reclaimed, and what is being integrated. Solar Eclipses integrate shadow into power, and this position shows what is being reclaimed.
Position 3: Destiny Calling - Soul Purpose This card reveals the destiny or soul calling being activated. It shows the soul's purpose, destiny being activated, what the individual is being called to, and the true path. Solar Eclipses activate destiny, and this position shows the calling.
Position 4: New Path Opening - Fresh Start This card shows the new path or opportunity opening.
The Four-Card Solar Eclipse Spread
This spread is designed to open to the potential of an upcoming eclipse.
- What pattern am I breaking with this eclipse?
- What can I now create in its place?
- What new cycle is opening for me?
- What unexpected change may be happening around me?
The Solar Eclipse Beacon Spread
This spread acknowledges the energetic effects of the eclipse, which can be felt a few days before and after it occurs. It includes cards to represent how one can be a beacon of light at this time of darkness and a card to represent a special message (from the deity, energy, or guide of one's choosing) to humanity. It is often suggested to pull two cards at the end: one for the individual and one for humanity.
The New Moon Solar Eclipse Spread
This spread builds off the core concepts of the New Moon tarot spread. It is tied to the North and South Nodes of the Moon. For 2025, the North and South Nodes are moving through Pisces and Virgo, respectively. Eclipse seasons typically occur twice a year, with two eclipses per season: a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse. These are inherently tied to the New Moon and Full Moon phases.
Interpreting Cards During Cosmic Shifts
When interpreting cards during an eclipse, the amplified energy must be considered. The Moon represents emotions, shadow, introspection, fears, and dreams. The Sun represents power, light, energy, and strength. A solar eclipse tells us that there may be a need to go inward at this time and deal with the tides that have built up inside. Life is not always smooth sailing, and the Moon is here to remind us of the gravitational pull it has on us.
The solar eclipse is a time for radical fresh starts and rebirth. It is a moment for power reclamation and sovereignty. The tarot spread is designed to help individuals step into their destiny and reclaim their power. The eclipse season is a time of accelerated destiny activation. It is best for major new beginnings, starting fresh, activating destiny, reclaiming power, identity transformation, and soul-level initiations.
Conclusion
Solar eclipses offer a potent time for tarot readings, focusing on new beginnings, destiny activation, and personal transformation. By understanding the distinct energy of these cosmic events and utilizing specific tarot spreads, individuals can gain deep insight into the shifts occurring in their lives. Whether through the seven-card spread, the four-card spread, or the beacon spread, tarot serves as a powerful tool to navigate the eclipse season, reclaim power, and step onto a new path aligned with one's soul purpose. Approaching these readings with intention and an open heart allows for the integration of shadow aspects and the illumination of one's true calling.