Judgement
Judgement, symbolized here by the cicada, represents rebirth, immortality, and the shedding of past selves as one rises into a new form. The card urges acceptance of spiritual awakening and the courage to embrace transformative, life-changing choices. Upright, it asks you to rely on intuition and intellect, seek trusted support, and act decisively with the assurance of absolution. Reversed, it warns of self-doubt and paralysis, urging you to silence your inner critic and move forward.
Keywords
Judgement
Animal
Cicada
Fun Fact
Cicadas are found only in the eastern half of the United States. They live a relatively long time depending on if they are annual or periodical cicadas, and their lifespan tends to range from 4 to 17 years, with periodical cicadas living the longest. Oftentimes mistaken for the more harmful locust, a group of cicadas is known as a plague or cloud.
Keywords
Rebirth, Awakening, Composure
Reversed Keywords
Accusations, Self-loathing, Criticism
Meaning
The cicada lifts its shed shell to the heavens as a wreath of trumpet vines heralds the offering through the gate. Cicadas have long been regarded as a symbol of rebirth, immortality, and living one’s life carefree and openly. They live their life largely underground, rising from the soil to shed their skins and emerge as fully formed adults. Judgement reminds us to grasp moments of rebirth without fear. There is always something grander in store for us should we shed our past selves and embrace what lies ahead.
When Upright
When upright, Judgement calls on us to rise up and embrace the spiritual awakening at hand. A life-changing decision may be on the horizon, and you must be the one to make it. Rely on your intuition and intellect to guide you, and be sure to keep in touch with your inner self to arrive at the right conclusion. Any choice you make will have long-lasting consequences, so it may be smart to seek outside help in weighing pros and cons. Find support in people you trust, and take comfort in the knowledge that absolution will greet you once the decision is made.
Reversed Meaning
When reversed, Judgement usually signifies that self-doubt has taken root in the user, trapping them in a quagmire of inaction. The world is calling out to you, urging you to rise up and make a choice — but while you hear it, you fear what such a choice may require of you. Perhaps the journey seems too daunting, the effort too immense. You can’t silence the call to action no matter how hard you try, and this card is just a reminder that you need to silence your inner critic and do what must be done. Doubt has no place in your journey. Take steps to pull yourself out of the mud and move forward. You won’t accomplish anything while hiding your head in the sand.
Visual Description
A large, ornate cicada- or moth-like insect dominates the center, its translucent wings patterned with veins and pale blues and pinks, set against a circular halo. Above the insect is a reclining, dark teal figure cradled in vines and a ring of hanging, trumpet-shaped flowers; the background is deep black studded with small diamond stars. Golden accents highlight the insect's head and the halo radiates fine lines, while sinuous green vines frame the sides. The single word "JUDGEMENT" appears in gold lettering at the bottom of the card.
Oriens tarot
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