Do you know the meaning of the Arcane 18 in Tarot?

The meaning of the Arcane 18, the Moon card, is mystery. Because it is associated with the subconscious, the Moon draws attention to some important information that has gone unnoticed. The Moon also represents mood swings, instability, and insecurity, often caused by anxiety or fear.

She governs intuition, imagination, secrets and mysteries and warns that what presents itself in your life is not what it seems, and it is necessary to trust your own instincts to discern the real from the illusory.

This card can also mean something done on the sly, warning that action is needed or you will be found out. It also indicates delays in making decisions, as well as doubts. In this article, we provide an overview of this powerful arcane.

Starting from the basic concepts of the Tarot and its history, we will walk through its operation, benefits and bring all the meanings associated with the energy of the Moon card in different Tarots. Read on to unravel the veil of mystery that surrounds this card.

What is Tarot?

Tarot is a card game that originated in Europe. Initially known as trionfi and later as tarocchi or tarock, the Tarot deck was used only as a game. As we will show in its history below, its use as an oracular tool is more recent. Check it out.

Tarot History

The Tarot appeared in the 15th century in different parts of Europe. Initially, it was used only as a game and it was only in the 18th century that it began to be used for divinatory purposes.

In 1781, a French Mason named Antoine Court de Gebelin published a detailed analysis of the Tarot, in which he associated the symbolism of the cards with the esoteric tradition coming from the secrets of the Egyptian priests.

According to Gebelin's intepretation, the secrets of the ancient Egyptians were perpetuated by Rome and incorporated into the Catholic Church.

Ten years after Gebelin's analysis, the French occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliete released the first Tarot deck intended for divination. Since then, the Tarot has become an oracular tool known throughout the world.

Benefits of Tarot

The benefits of Tarot can be observed in different areas of life. In general, reading Tarot cards works as a tool of self-knowledge, which will help you focus and understand important aspects of your life. In addition, using Tarot will bring the following benefits to your life:

How Tarot works

Tarot works by drawing. Basically, you shuffle the cards, cutting them into small groups using your left hand and focusing on a question. Then, the cards are laid out on a surface to be interpreted.

The images arranged in the cards give access to intuition and it is from them that the messages are interpreted. It is also important to consider the position of the card and its relationship with the theme of the consultation and with the cards that are arranged next to it.

A myth related to the Tarot is that it is used exclusively to predict the future. What the Tarot actually does is to serve as a guide for the fortune teller to interpret the messages according to the energies of the moment.

What the Tarot Cards look like

The Cards of the modern Tarot are based on the Venetian and Piedmontese Tarots and consist of a group of 78 cards, divided into two main groups: the major arcana and the minor arcana.

The major arcana are made up of 22 richly illustrated cards. This set of cards has symbolism that reveals our soul's journey through the cycles of incarnation.

The minor arcana comprise 56 cards, divided into four major groups and each of these is governed by a suit and element of nature: clubs (fire), hearts (water), swords (air) and diamonds (earth). In contrast to the major arcana, the minor arcana reveal everyday scenes and so are associated with the day to day of the consultant.

Arcane 18 in various Tarots

Although the Arcane 18 has a universal archetypal symbolism, it is commonly represented with additional symbologies depending on the type of Tarot it is in. Below we will show its symbolism in different decks like the Egyptian Tarot, the Mythological Tarot and the Waite Tarot. Check it out.

Egyptian Tarot Arcane 18

In the Egyptian Tarot, the Arcane 18 features jackals, the sacred animals of Anubis, the god linked to the underworld and death. In this arcane, jackals are related to the animalistic nature of humans.

In the Moon chart, you can also see two towers that demarcate the Egyptian pylon, located on the threshold between life and death. In these towers are the gods Osiris and Chespisiquis, god of the moon and protector against evil spirits.

The sarcophagus of Osiris is in the River Nile and there is a beetle between the waters of the river and its banks, suggesting that the mind is trying to emerge from the murky waters. The landscape is dry and barren, but it is only a moment of dormancy, soon nature will awaken again.

Arcane 18 in Mythological Tarot

In the Mythological Tarot, the Arcane 18 is represented by the Goddess Hecate, goddess of dog magic and crossroads in Greek mythology. Represented with her triple face, Hecate stands before a fountain of water behind Cerberus, the three-headed dog protector of the underworld. This goddess is crowned with the three phases of the moon.

As occurs in many Tarots, a crustacean tries to emerge from the waters of the fountain. The atmosphere in this card is dark and mysterious, and only the light emitted by Hecate's crown is able to bring insight into the darkness.

Arcane 18 in Tarot de Marseille

In the Tarot of Marseille, the Arcane 18 shows a crescent moon and a sun with faces. Both are not looking directly at us. Being in the crescent phase, the moon indicates that something is not fully revealed and that time is needed to see its true and complete face.

Below the moon are two animals, interpreted as dogs, wolves or even a dog and a wolf, representing our wild and animalistic side. Both are howling at the moon and are feeding on the rays it emits.

It is important to note that both animals have additional colors, referring to the Taoism maxim in which each extremity carries a little of the other.

Arcane 18 in the Rider Waite Tarot

In Rider Waite's Tarot of the Moon card reveals a crescent moon in front of the sun, as in an eclipse, positioned between two towers representing an omen of the final goal. The moon's rays are dewdrops indicating fertility.

Under the moon, you see a wolf and a domestic dog howling, while a crab emerges from the water, the home of the subconscious mind.

This triad of animals is extremely important for the interpretation of the card: the wolf represents the powerful force of instinct, while the dog reveals the domestication of it. The crab indicates the emergence of facts hidden in the subconscious gaining light for the conscious, as well as the expected encounter with the solid ground under the feet.

Getting to know the chart The Moon

The Moon card is one of the most enigmatic cards of the tarot. The central figure of this card is the crescent moon, a fact that indicates that there are events that will happen for the lunar cycle to be completed. To understand its mysteries, we describe its iconography and meanings below.

Visual description of the card The Moon

The moon chart reveals a crescent moon in front of the sun, as in an eclipse, positioned between two towers representing an omen of the final goal. The moonbeams are dewdrops indicating fertility.

Under the moon, one sees a wolf and a domestic dog howling, while a crab emerges from the water, the home of the subconscious mind. This triad of animals is extremely important to the interpretation of the card: the wolf represents the powerful force of instinct, while the dog reveals the domestication of it.

In turn, the crab indicates the emergence of facts hidden in the subconscious gained light for the conscious, in addition to expected encounter with the solid ground under the feet.

Meaning of the card 18

The 18th sign means that not everything is what it appears to be. The meanings of the Moon sign involve an aura of mystery and imagination. You have decided to follow a path in the dark, without paying attention to the dangers lurking around you.

Since your vision is distorted and your judgment compromised by the twilight of this card, you need to watch out for the illusions that permeate your game. Your imagination can gain wings under the moonbeams and so it becomes increasingly complicated to know what is real.

In addition, the Moon reminds us that we need to be aware of our intuition in order to use it as a tool for healing and survival.

Meaning of the card 18 inverted

The meaning of the 18 reversed card is freedom and detachment. It is an indication that the end of your problems is near. If you struggle with anxiety, depression or suffer from love disappointment, the card indicates that the situation is finally about to improve.

Moon shows that everything in your life is a phase and you need to face your problems and Moon will serve as a guide on your darkest path. Other main meanings of the inverted moon card are:

Interpretation on the spiritual plane

On the spiritual plane, the Moon brings revelations of images from the soul of the consulter. Often drowned by the dubious nature of this card, the images will appear as glimpses of a dream, in which it is not possible to discern reality from illusion.

As in an ecstatic and essentially seductive delirium, this letter engages the subject of the question in an almost magical manner, ensnaring all that is upon its touch like a charmer of souls.

The Moon does not allow a glimpse beyond its veil, when the human and animal are confused into one, further reinforcing the dubiousness that hangs together with the mist brought by it. This card structures the subconscious mind and indicates that it is necessary to seek in it the revelations about the images of the soul that you seek so much.

Interpretation on the mental plane

On the mental plane, the Moon is the card of the subconscious, so it can indicate that your mind can play tricks on you when you find yourself in the period ruled by the half light of this card. It is a period of doubt, uncertainty and worry.

You may have trouble discerning what is real from what is illusory, so take a step back if necessary to understand what is going on.

Past experiences, emotional instability, and variations in mood and behavior can be noticed when the Moon chart appears. It is important to search for the answers within yourself, but be prepared to leap a darkness.

Interpretation on the physical plane

On the physical plane, the Moon chart points to possible fraud, deception, and uncertainty. This is not the time for material gain so be wary of proposals. Avoid making investments as the uncertain nature of this chart points to possible loss of money.

Also, be aware of your vision. The Moon brings with it a cloudy and dark environment and so it's possible that you may need help to understand what's around you. Be careful when going out in the street as you'll be more susceptible to accidents due to low visibility.

Different aspects of chart 18 The Moon

The Moon is the card of mysteries and secrets and for this reason it is often considered a bad card. Despite this, it is not a negative card in itself, since it tends more towards uncertainty. Read on if you want to know the positive and negative aspects of this card.

Positive aspects of "The Moon

The positive aspects of the moon are related to the indication of the secret. Also by reflecting the sun, it shows that even in the darkest moments, the darkness will always make way for the light. Other positive aspects of the moon card are:

Negative aspects of "The Moon"

Many of the negative aspects of the Moon chart are related to fear of dealing with or understanding parts of yourself. However, if you shine the moon's rays on them, you will realize that they are not so bad. In addition, other negative aspects of the Moon are:

The Moon in the Tarot of love and relationships

When the Moon appears in a love and relationship strip, it is likely that you are facing communication problems. It is possible that you or your partner is not being clear or sincere and that there are unresolved issues between both parties.

Part of the conflicts you go through as arguments are a result of this lack of communication. If you are single and the Moon card appears in your game, it's a sign that someone who is trying to get close to you is not really who they appear to be.

It is possible that this person has approached you to take advantage or is wearing a mask that will only fall off when the relationship well after the start of the relationship.

The Moon in the Tarot of work and finance

The Moon at work and in your financial life is an omen of indecision and disappointment. In the work environment, focus on what you really feel rather than listening to others as listening to intuition is the key.

If you are unemployed, this card means that the time has not yet come for you to find the job you want. The Moon card asks you to be careful with your financial situation.

If you want to start an investment or accept a business proposal, it's best to wait for the Moon's change before making a decision to avoid possible problems. When signing contracts, read between the lines as there may be some detail that has gone unnoticed that could compromise your finances.

The Moon in the Tarot of health and spirituality

In the field of health and spirituality the Moon indicates that it is important to pay attention to your health, especially regarding your mind. Themes such as anxiety, depression, and in more extreme cases schizophrenia, can be indicated with this chart.

In addition, the Moon shows that part of your health is affected by your mind and your illnesses are predominantly psychosomatic.

As far as spirituality is concerned, it's time to connect with your intuition and your feminine side. These two areas, when worked on well, can bring the spiritual comfort and enlightenment you so desperately seek.

The Moon in Mythological Tarot

In the Mythological Tarot, the Moon is related to the lunar goddess Hecate, associated with crossroads, magic and dogs, elements that are present in most versions of this Tarot. Hecate is known to help those who call upon her to make decisions.

Especially considering that the Moon is a card of mysteries and indecision, Hecate and her dogs may be called upon to protect during your journey into the unknown brought about by the Moon card.

The Moon in Astrology

The Moon chart is ruled by the Moon and the element of water, ruler of the signs of Cancer and Pisces and which are present in the visual elements of the chart. Therefore, these signs are linked to this arcane.

In astrology, the Moon is a symbol of intuition, sensitivity and mysteries. Moreover, the Moon is the realm of the subconscious and vastness and complexity of the inner world. Piscians and Cancerians are known for their high imagination and creative spirit, important aspects of the Moon chart.

Pisces rules the twelfth house of the zodiac which governs escapism, privacy and idealism, while Cancer rules the fourth house, marked by intuition. In a drawing, the Moon can therefore represent someone of these signs.

Combinations with the card The Moon

In this section, we present combinations with the Moon card. In draws, the Moon usually aligns with other cards to denounce events that are happening under your nose or at the subconscious level and are unnoticed. Check out its main combinations below.

The Moon and The Magician

When the Moon is combined with the Magician, it is a sign of mystery in the work environment. Also, it is indicative of creativity and the creative industry.

The Moon and The Priestess

The Moon and High Priestess combined carry hints of secrets about the subject of the question. In addition, they may indicate pregnancy.

The Moon and The Car

The combination of the Moon and Chariot chart indicates a journey by sea. It is also indicative of a creative journey or even astral travel.

The Moon and Justice

The Moon and Righteousness show that the process of searching for truth can be slow and long. Be careful not to let illusions cloud your common sense judgment and use your intuition to find the truth you seek.

The Moon and The World

The Moon combined with the World indicates social phobia and anxiety. Trust your intuition and tap into the Moon's energy to get rid of what ails you.

The Moon and The Force

The combination of the Moon sign and Strength indicates an encouragement to keep fighting for your goals. Soon, the phase will change and you will be able to achieve what you want.

The Moon and Wheel of Fortune

The Moon and Wheel of Fortune show that the wheel will finally turn in your favour. Moreover, they confirm that you were right about what you predicted on the subject of the drawing.

The Moon and The Hanged Man

The Moon and the Hanged Man reveal that in times of uncertainty and confusion, it is important to wait to get the answers you seek. Listen to your dreams and your intuition to then get another perspective on the situation and thus understand it.

The Moon and The Devil

The combination of the Moon and the Devil card shows that there is a false person in your life who is trying to take advantage of you. Be very careful with people who are close to you.

Does the Tarot card The Moon suggest that there is something hidden in my life?

Yes, this arcane has a very intense mysterious energy, suggesting that there is something hidden in your life. Like the crab that emerges from the eye of water present in this blade, mysteries or even secrets that were hitherto kept are about to surface, generating a strong emotional charge.

Added to this scenario are the other dual elements in his iconography: two towers, two celestial bodies and two animals, which reveal the duality of everything. These symbols show that there are two possibilities in the current situation and that there is difficulty in discerning what is what.

The Moon warns you that the time has come to realize this entangling illusion so that you can finally access the truth that is veiled by this shadow of mystery.

Remember that the moon can guide you through the darkness, but you need to listen to your inner voice so that you can transition through this dark phase and finally the true path will be revealed.