This article continues my series examining the trumps of the Tarot de Marseille, adapted from my unpublished manuscript, Tarot de Marseille: The Picturebook of Fate. As throughout this series, the emphasis is placed upon the traditional eikōn of the card, its historical context, and the practical significations I have found useful through divinatory practice. The interpretations presented here reflect my own experience of working with the Tarot de Marseille and should be understood as a working method rather than a definitive authority.

The Ones: The Juggler, the Wheel of Fortune and the Sun

Trump XVIIII, Le Soleil, or the Sun, is one of the most beneficent trumps in the Marseille Tarot, yet its significance is often reduced to little more than success or happiness. Whilst it certainly promises both, the card possesses a depth that is easily overlooked. Why should it signify children and pregnancy? Does it merely indicate favourable circumstances, or does it promise something more substantial? The Sun speaks not simply of success, but of the conditions which make success possible.

The essence of the Sun is illumination; its function is warming. Illumination reveals what was previously hidden, bringing clarity, understanding, and certainty. Warming animates and nourishes. It encourages growth, vitality, and development. Together, these two principles make the Sun a card of openness, life, and constructive progress.

The traditional eikōn of the Sun depicts two figures, often interpreted as children, standing beneath a radiant sun whose benevolent rays descend upon them. Behind them there is frequently a wall, suggesting enclosure and protection, whilst also hinting at the cultivated space of a garden. Unlike the uncertain and mutable world of the Wheel of Fortune, the environment of the Sun appears safe, ordered, and life-giving.

Particularly striking is the relationship between the two figures. They stand together as equals. They are similarly dressed and embrace one another without any obvious distinction of rank or status. Their relationship is characterised by mutuality rather than hierarchy. For this reason, the Sun is one of the most favourable cards for relationships. It promises warmth, openness, sincerity, and mutual respect. Difficulties may still exist, but they are illuminated rather than concealed. People speak plainly, trust one another, and work together towards common aims. For those concerned with love and partnership, it is an encouraging sight.

The association with children follows naturally from the imagery. The youthful figures, the enclosed and protected setting, and the life-giving power of the Sun itself all point towards fertility, growth, and generation. Consequently, the card frequently appears in matters concerning pregnancy, childbirth, children, and family life. More generally, it signifies the successful development of something that has been carefully nurtured.

The Sun is also a card of vitality, confidence, and constructive energy. It supplies the warmth required for growth and the light required for clear action. When it appears, it often indicates that the querent possesses, or will soon possess, the resources needed to achieve their aims. Obstacles may remain, and effort is still required, but the conditions are favourable. In this respect, the Sun can indeed be a harbinger of good fortune, though not in the capricious manner of Fortuna’s wheel. Rather, it promises the steady and life-giving influence that allows people, relationships, and enterprises to flourish. However difficult matters may presently appear, the Sun assures us that a brighter horizon lies ahead.

General: The beginning of a period of progress and development. The energy, vitality, and favourable circumstances required for success. Clarity, truth, confidence, and the ability to see matters plainly. Illumination dispels confusion and brings certainty.

Love: The beginning of a new love affair or the reconciliation of estranged partners. Relationships characterised by genuine affection, mutual respect, openness, and trust. The card favours the creation of a home and family, and is strongly associated with faithfulness, fidelity, and long-term happiness.

Career: The Sun often signifies prominence, seniority, recognition, or public acclaim rather than a particular profession. When occupationally descriptive, it frequently points towards work involving children, education, childcare, or youth services. The card promises success in job searches and suggests that opportunities for advancement, promotion, and achievement are available.

Finance: A favourable card promising financial growth, security, and prosperity. Efforts are rewarded and opportunities for advancement are available. The card often indicates a period of stability and confidence.

Health: The Sun is the principal card of vitality, vigour, and recovery. It generally indicates robust health and a strong constitution. Anatomically, it is associated with the eyes and the central nervous system. As a card of fertility, pregnancy, and healthy development, it may also signify common conditions and concerns associated with pregnancy.

Essence: Illumination.
Function: Warming.
Polarity: Positive.
Astrological Association: The Sun.
Timing: Sunday. Within a year.

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Tarot Cards: Jean Dodal Tarot via Wikipedia Commons. Public Domain.

Featured Image: Ancient Tarot Major Arcana © BP Grimaud/John Waddington Ltd, Leeds & London, Les Tarot de Marseille Jean Noblet, 1650 © Editions «letarot.com» (2001 [hand stencilled trumps]). Les Tarot de Marseille Jean Dodal, 1701 et 1715 © Editions «letarot.com» (2002 [hand stencilled trumps])