using reversed meanings?

RE: using reversed meanings?

I am pretty new to this whole thing and probably won't be much help, but I'll try. I started using reversals in the first place because it was the way I was first instructed to read tarot.

I use reversals now because of two reasons. One reason is because to me, I think turning the cards upside down would probably make them register differently in my subconscious as being almost opposite of the original meaning. This may or may not be true and I am trying to read the cards both ways for now to see if the readings with reversals make more sense to me or vice versa. However, if seeing the card right side up and upside down evoke the same responses in you, perhaps it is best to read it without reversals since that could very well mean your subconscious is attaching the same meaning to the card irregardless of the way it is turned.

Now, the other reason I use reversals is because it allows more responses to a question. It's like having twice as many cards and responses since each card has two meanings. Well, actually I have read one of the cards (can't recall which for certain) is read the same way no matter which way it is turned because it is such a good omen. I wish I had that one tarot book of mine handy that stated this, so I could see which card it was. Anyways, by the same token, if some cards feel different turned upside down read them differently and if others feel the same read them the same. If they all feel different or the same, read them that way. The meaning you place upon them is probably how they will show up in the readings. Or by theory, I suppose, how they should. You think?

You asked how we found the reversed meanings. Usually reversed meanings have something to do with one of the following, at least in my limited experience it appears this way- 1. Sometimes they have almost opposite meanings. 2. Sometimes they represent the negative aspect of the card. 3. Sometimes they have similar meanings, but the meaning has been altered somewhat. It could be that it's toned down or intensified the meanings. They mean almost the same thing only more or less intensley. And other times the reverse meaning shows resistance to the original card's meaning, so again we are using the origional meaning only adding to it. For instance, with death the card of change and endings and new begginings, being reversed could mean you are resisting the change or it could mean you are at a stand still stagnant place in your life. Now, I may be saying that completely wrong, but I think that's accurate. Also, you can get the reverse meanings in the books that come along with many decks and the reverse meanings may be found online.

Here is a link to someone discussing why the use reversals and how. [link= http://www.angelfire.com/realm2/amethystbt/divtarotreading.html ]http://www.angelfire.com/realm2/amethystbt/divtarotreading.html[/link]

I don't know where this originated.

RE: using reversed meanings?

Hi Star_dust
personally I don't read reversals, I tend to fully let the cards guide me & go with what ever I get when I do a Tarot reading, I do find that the surrounding cards in a spread can bring out a different 'side' to a card, I find the cards don't hold the same 'message' from reading to reading (if you know what I mean[&:])

Love
Amy
xxx

RE: using reversed meanings?

hi there!

Im no expert by any means and am very new to all this but i think that there are enough negative cards in the pack without having to add more......i was told this by a tarotreader who is also a teacher!

Love n light gizmox

RE: using reversed meanings?

That is true, I feel that also.
I know that they are a realistic outlook on life and life has its downs as well as ups, but too many in a reading is disheartening for anybody!
What I was concerned about is does reversing the cards negate all their meanings?? hmm 😮