Sideways Tarot Cards: Interpreting Their Unique Angle

Tarot's Sideways Mystery

When shuffling and laying out tarot cards for a reading, we expect them to land upright or reversed. But what does it signify when they fall sideways? Often referred to as 'blocking cards' or 'stalling cards,' sideways tarot cards can puzzle both novice and seasoned practitioners alike. These cards lie horizontally with their energy poised in uncertainty, offering a unique narratological challenge. Interpreting these cards requires us to dive into the nuanced spectrum between the conventional dualities of upright and reversed meanings, compelling us to consider a complex array of factors in our exegetic process.

Navigating the Liminal

The sideways position, sometimes happening by chance or deliberately placed in certain reading styles, offers a liminal space for interpretation. Here, the card's energy is neither fully expressed nor completely inhibited. Think of it as a 'maybe'—suggestive of potentials not yet realized or energies currently in flux. It could indicate delays, uncertainties, or a need for more information before the situation can move forward. A sideways card can be a nudge to the querent—inviting them to address something that might be holding them back or to wait for the right moment for action.

Context is Key

While gazing upon a sideways tarot card, the immediate context is critical. The surrounding cards, the spread's specific positions, and the question or intent of the reading all layer additional meaning. For instance, if the sideways card is among many upright cards, it may hint at a minor obstacle in an otherwise clear pathway. Conversely, surrounded by reversals, it might signal an upcoming shift that could stir the stagnant waters. The reader must use their intuition and knowledge of the deck to weave these details into a coherent and insightful narrative.

Reading Sideways in Practice

In practical terms, when a card appears sideways, first consider its upright meaning. Then, ponder the reversed implications and contemplate the space in-between—the grey areas where subtleties reside. For instance, if The Chariot sidles into a reading, its direct forward motion is not entirely blocked, but it's not freely flowing, either. The querent may be on the right path but needs to pause and reassess their commitment, direction, or motivation before proceeding to reap the full benefits of the card's energy.

Advancing Your Interpretation

Sideways tarot readings have been gaining attention in recent practices, with some tarotists integrating them into new spread designs. Such cards could serve as checkpoints, signaling the querent to address specific issues before advancing. Utilizing the traditional meanings of each card as a base, the sideway card asks deeper, more contemplative questions and allows space for meditation on the gray areas of our lives. In essence, it's a call to engage more actively with our circumstances.

Sideways Tarot in Modern Readings

The tarot community always evolves, with new conventions and interpretations emerging. As of 2024 and beyond, new discourses around sideways cards are likely to continue influencing how tarotists approach readings. Innovations in digital tarot platforms and apps might incorporate the nuances of sideways cards into their algorithms, bridging the gap between traditional practices and technology, and inviting a broader global audience to engage with this unique aspect of tarot reading.

Published: 2/8/2024

Modified: 2/8/2024

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