Card 4

The Emperor

Brief Description

The Witch King represents leadership, authority, and paternal energy. In its invoked state, it signifies strength, protection, and strategic mastery. Conversely, when banished, it indicates a loss of control, manipulation, and issues with authority figures. The Witch King embodies both the protective, nurturing aspects of leadership as well as the dangers of abuse and loss of authority.

the emperortarottarot card meaningtarot interpretationtarot readingcard symbolismdivinationmajor arcana

INVOKED

Leadership, authority, sexual virility, force, drive, paternal influence, aggression.

BANISHED

Immaturity, fraud, loss of inheritance, temper, weak mindedness, argument, injury through violence.

Sovereign Lord of the Coven

The Witch King is the Sovereign Lord of the Coven. He carries the pitchfork of the Lord of the Sabbath, representing him as Master of the Elements. In his left hand, he holds the serpent, the giver of knowledge, with whom he speaks. He is a symbol of authority, a strong leader, and a father figure, as the Witch King can make other witches through initiation. He possesses unlimited power and recognition, confidence in the face of any adversity, and the steadfastness of our will and our witchcraft.

Embodiment of Masculinity

The Witch King is the embodiment of masculinity and all its virtues just as the Witch Queen is the embodiment of femininity. He is a powerful protector and his influence in witchcraft annihilates destructive influences that try to bring ruin. His crown has 10 cowry shells, mouths of the Gods Who speak through him, and 10 fiery red feathers, representing the order of the heavens, the cycle of the Universe. His crown also represent the order of the Elements: the metal representing earth; the feathers, air; the blazing red rubies representing fire; and the shells representing water. Because of his irrevocable Mastery, he is unconquerable.

DIVINATORY MEANING

Invoked Witch King

Invoking the Witch King means invoking paternal energy. You are naturally protective and authoritative, yet well respected. As a natural leader, not only do people feel comfortable coming to you to solve problems, but you are also receptive of good advice. You thrive when you receive proper recognition and the status you deserve. Because of your protective nature, you are quick to defend those you care about and welcome conflict with aggression, often times upstaging your opponents’ attacks by making sure yours meet your targets and defeat them. Overkill is a typical feature of your battle tactics. You value order and organization and you work best when you follow a plan. Your strategic nature knows no limits. You can easily end conflict, or start it when necessary because you are aware that sometimes it cannot be avoided and will ultimately feed the greater good. You are the plan maker and others value that about you. You have an easy connection to the Divine and can get results by simply speaking your will and letting the Cosmos take care of it.

Banished Witch King

The banished Witch King means a loss of control. You lack respect and authority and when you do try to assert yourself, people take it as being controlling. You may also have deep-rooted issues with father figures, leading to insecurities that manifest through abuse of authority. You are easily manipulated and often give up your position to please others. The Witch King is banished, leaving you to fend for yourself so you are being forced to face your opponents. This could be a manipulative relationship, a controlling boss, or an aggressive enemy.

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Sabbath tarot

✍️ Deck author(s): Allan Sriers

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