Happy July! From Christine!

As I’m sure most of you (if not, all of you) are aware: Julius Caesar is the only person who ever gave his name to an entire month of the year. In 46 B.C. he ordered a reform of the calendar and named the seventh month after himself; the month now known as July.

It was shortly before Caesar’s Rule that the practice of divination began to be used in politics. In fact, divination was not a common man’s claim; but generally reserved for high officials.

Statesmen of that time, it was said, had their astrological profiles charted for record. It was even rumoured that Julius, himself, was versed in palmistry and had a potential traitor executed due to the finer secrets the possible traitor’s hand contained. This theory, however, is not substantiated. There is just as much history that infers Caesar was not a strong believer in the occult. History says that his death was forewarned, but still he did not heed the counsel.
For those who aren’t familiar with tarot cards, it is the Chariot that depicts Julius Caesar riding his chariot triumphantly back from the battlefield. Normally, the Chariot signifies characteristics associated with military attitudes: discipline, determination, and self-reliance. The Chariot is the 7th card in the deck. It’s link is, therefore, to that of Cancer.

The Chariot, much like the zodiac sign of Cancer, is ruled by the Element of Water. It is a symbol of the hidden emotions and the intuition that dwells within all of us. The numerical influence of this card is 7; a number that stresses control of the senses, as well as the height and refinement of our heart’s desire. The purpose of 7 is self-mastery. The affect of 7 lends an analytical and reflective element to The Chariot. The Chariot is often identified as the instrument used to reach God. One of the oldest Jewish mystical writings was titled "Merkavah" meaning: "The Chariot." Merkavah is the mode in which the individual can travel to the higher plane of God without leaving the physical form. This practise, in a way, is quite similar to what we currently term as ‘Astral Projection’.

The Chariot symbolizes new beginnings. It can indicate a journey or a move of some sort. This insight, however, comes with the warning that care and caution should be taken. One must pause and analyse the situation before rushing into anything. The Chariot also offers a sense of calmness; and requires us to maintain peace and level-headedness, regardless of external pressures. To master The Chariot, one must face and overcome fear. Its presence in a spread indicates the strengthening of our physical motivation: the ability to now take the ‘idea’ and cultivate it into ‘action’.

Like with all Tarot Cards, The Chariot carries an assortment of symbols, which offer a clearer depiction of its meaning. Some of the finer details are: The armour worn by the figure. This signifies ‘a spiritual warrior’ and his or her ‘spiritual protection’. The crab is symbolic of the traveller; seeking to explore new conquests. The Ball of Fire represents the use of power and energy. The sphinxes are a collective of the personal will. And while there are many more, it should be noted that the Charioteer is not actually driving the vehicle. He is enthroned upon it. This representation indemnifies the existence of perfect balance; that there is a guiding will.
The characteristics of this card signifies fast-paced events and/or a change of some type (moving, new job or travel, etc.). It implies the need for self-control, self-confidence, and willpower in order to succeed all obstacles. It may also suggest the need for immediate action. It can also indicate the loss of control due to personality conflicts and stubbornness.

In all my years of practising tarot, I cannot remember a time when The Chariot has shown in the past context. I thank God for that. Such placement would speak of a missed opportunity or a hesitation to act. When I see this card in a present or future context, I cannot help but inwardly smile. For in knowing we can make change.

Affirmations for the month of July (motivated by quotes from Julius Caesar):

“Experience is the teacher of all things”
I am a collector of knowledge and am compelled to impart what I’ve learned.

“Men’s minds tend to fear more keenly those things that are absent”
I am not only thankful for what I have; but equally appreciative for what I do not.

“All bad precedents begin as justifiable measures”
I am aware that my choices our mine, but my consequences may impact others. Therefore, I give careful consideration to the choices I make.

“ In extreme danger fear feels no pity”
I will not entertain fear. I give my fear to a power greater than me and choose to hold faith, instead.

“It is better to create than to learn!”
I have learned the Path I will walk and I will create an even better course!

Julius Caesar may have been a man, ruthless in his quest for power; however, there is still much positive he left in his legacy. He, like The Chariot card, teaches us that goals are attainable if we take the time to plot our course of action well. There is a warrior in all of us, a desire to be greater than the initial design. Julius Caesar proves that we can each master our power. The Chariot, however, compels us to be thoughtful in this quest; that justice isn’t just for us, but a grace we must impart.

In celebration of the month of July, I present to you the option of attaining a seat on the metaphoric ‘Chariot’. This is achieved through understanding ‘Your Pinnacles & Challenges’.
Pinnacles are the path we walk in order to reach our destination. Understanding the Pinnacles allows us to see the road ahead and where it can lead. The Challenges represent the twists, turns and potholes in that path. Naturally, these obstacles appear as matters to overcome. They are not. While walking the path we become aware of the Challenge’s significance. We learn that The Challenges are designed to enrich our experience: they must be appreciated as gifts that add to our value before they can be defeated.

The Challenges appear to do just that: they challenge us. But they’re more than that! They are the catalysts that motivate us to realize our victory. They call on us to expand our skills and to refine our innate talents. They point us to habits that we need to work on to further our spiritual evolution.

The Challenges and Pinnacles go hand in hand. Once we determine the path of our current Pinnacle, we must look toward the Challenge to discover what we need to learn along its course.
Please claim your seat on The Chariot and explore your Life’s Path through greater understanding “Your Pinnacles & Challenges”, a $34.99 value for only $29.99.

Because…
On Life’s Path we are not without a map, nor do we walk alone… Please call on the intensity of Caesar’s essence and the driving force of The Chariot in order to take your ‘ideas’ and advance them into ‘actions’.

With Love & Blessings,
Christine