Death
The Death card, often misunderstood, symbolizes transformation, renewal, and the passage of time. It represents more than physical death; it signifies the shedding of old self and a rebirth. The imagery illustrates the struggle and embrace of change, as well as the inevitability of transformation. Elements of memento mori further highlight the idea that death is just another beginning.
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Introduction
What can I say about the thirteen trump that hasn’t already been said so many times? It holds understandable sway over all others and looms grand in our collective consciousness and popular culture.
Universal Significance
Death is the one constant, sure thing that equalizes and unifies us all. And in the tarot, Death stands for more than dying. It reaches beyond that to transformation, a shedding of the self, a kind of baring and rebirth.
Imagery and Symbolism
It is the natural follower of the Hanged Man. And so I carried the imagery over. Death stands not alone, but with the figure who has been freed from his bonds. They are wrestling and embracing, pushing and pulling with and against each other. Change is difficult and does not often come without a struggle. But change is also sought, it is transformative. In this card there is a hint of sex, which, to me, is inextricable from death.
Memento Mori and Vanitas Imagery
At Death's feet are the classic trappings of memento mori and vanitas imagery, some of which also double for the four suits: a scepter (wands) and crown for power, a book for knowledge and wisdom, a dagger (swords) for strife, coins and chalices for earthly pleasures and wealth, and an hourglass for the relentless passage of time. Like on the Hanged Man card, the tree wrapping around the border is starting to unfurl its leaves. Sometimes Death is only the beginning.
Fyodor Pavlov tarot
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