The Tree Lenormand card and various Tarot decks utilize the imagery of trees to convey profound messages regarding vitality, connection, and development. In Tarot readings, the Tree is frequently associated with the concept of slow but steady growth, suggesting that desired goals will require time to manifest. This symbol serves as a powerful signifier for health and longevity, indicating that the querent possesses the necessary strength and talent to implement ideas into life. The imagery often evokes the Ash Yggdrasil, representing the structural foundation that connects heaven, earth, and the underworld, emphasizing the importance of being grounded.
Keywords commonly associated with the Tree include growth, groundedness, past connections, personal growth, spirituality, and health. In general, the Tree suggests that the querent is on the right path but must exert effort to complete tasks and eventually reap the rewards. It emphasizes the replenishment of internal resources and the confidence found in internal strength. Furthermore, the Tree highlights a connection to ancestors and family. However, it is noted that without the support of family and ancestral bonds, there can be no soul integrity, particularly if a person feels rootless or disconnected.
Upright Meanings in Love and Relationships
In the context of love readings, the upright Tree card is a symbol of constancy and stability. It indicates that feelings are deep and that the relationship possesses a solid foundation with the prospect of growing into a strong bond over many years. This card suggests a destiny of being together, laying the foundation for a family nest, and living by common interests. It represents relationships that are not temporary but are built for the long term, where partners work together rather than pulling in opposite directions.
Reversed Meanings and Challenges
When the Tree card appears in a reversed position, its meaning shifts toward stagnation, stiffness, boredom, monotony, laziness, and apathy. In love readings, a reversed Tree may indicate negative family dynamics, such as frequent divorces, quarrels between generations, or situations where children do not communicate with parents, sue, or refuse kinship. In a professional context, a reversed Tree suggests that a person has stopped their professional development, which could lead to unemployment or financial loss if skills are not improved. Regarding finances, the reversed Tree indicates a lack of fortitude to wait for long-term rewards, which is a necessary ability in specific situations.
Career and Financial Insights
In career inquiries, the upright Tree card indicates a stable professional position. It suggests that the querent is sure to take a serious place, secure a stable income, and have excellent prospects for development. There is an opportunity to form an irreplaceable base for further movement forward or for the creation of a business. In financial matters, the Tree recommends investing for long-term profit rather than quick gains. It represents a solid foundation and confidence in tomorrow, though it is not indicated for critical times of instability or loss of work.
The Tree in Tarot of Trees Deck
The Tarot of Trees is an 80-card deck that features classical tarot symbolism through the theme of trees. It is described as a calming "hug deck" that encourages the querent to sit back, relax, and take time, contrasting with decks that provide instant, flood-like messages. Looking through these cards is likened to sitting in nature and soaking up the sun. The deck is well thought out, with bright, uncomplicated watercolor images where every detail serves a purpose. The background colors often differ from expectations, encouraging an expansion of thinking.
In the Tarot of Trees, the suits are represented by colors, allowing for easy identification of a preponderance of a single suit in a spread. For example, Pentacles have a purple/indigo background. Specific cards offer unique interpretations:
- King of Swords: The tree appears elevated on a pedestal, suggesting the role of judgments and reactions. The imagery may evoke the sword in the stone, emphasizing the need to hold firm to one's truth, ideas, and beliefs.
- Queen of Pentacles: The tree is portrayed as protecting what is important to her. It is not a showy tree on the surface, but underneath, there is beauty. She is depicted as a capable, strong, independent, and resourceful nurturer who uses practical and effective methods to provide for herself and those she cares about.
- 6 of Wands: This card represents a will that cannot be beaten. The tree is shown turning challenges into victories.
Tree Associations in Oracle and Cartomancy
In oracle systems such as Arboretum, trees are attributed specific associations for cartomancy. The Tulip Poplar, for instance, is associated with Justice, Speech, and Liberty. The Tulip Poplar is a fast-growing, towering canopy tree with a long, straight trunk and pale to golden yellow flowers resembling tulips. Its trunk resembles a pillar, a strong pictorial element within Tarot’s Justice card, representing the foundations of maintaining balance: Truth (what is factual) and Fairness (restorative justice or karma). Historically, during the American Revolutionary War, Americans would rally beneath landmark trees like the Tulip Poplar, linking it to the concept of the Liberty Tree.
General Symbolism and Physical Connection
Broadly, the Tree stands for nature itself and addresses our relationship with the natural world. Positively, it suggests a strong connection with nature, or sometimes serves as advice to develop a better relationship with the natural world. It represents anything natural (as opposed to constructed or artificial) and anything physical (as opposed to ideas or valuations). As a worldview, the Tree may represent materialism.
Regarding the body and physical activities, the Tree acknowledges that human beings are composed of physical matter and are subject to the laws of physics and biology. In readings where the body plays a role, the Tree often suggests the need to look after the body better or that physical needs should be taken care of first. Combinations with other cards can refine this meaning; for example, Tree and Clouds might hint at a body image disorder.
Conclusion
The Tree in Tarot and Lenormand readings serves as a multifaceted symbol of health, stability, and growth. Whether signifying a solid foundation in relationships and career or warning against stagnation and lack of patience, it encourages a connection to roots, nature, and physical reality. From the specific interpretations of the Tarot of Trees deck to the historical associations of the Tulip Poplar with Justice, the tree motif consistently points toward the importance of a grounded, patient, and healthy approach to life's challenges and opportunities.