Let’s get back into our Decan Walk adventure by exploring the Sagittarius Decans. After diving through the murky depths of Scorpio, you are now ready to learn the wisdom from deep healing philosophy by embarking upon the adventurous quest for Truth & Wisdom!

Before we gallop forward on this journey, I would like to apologize for the delay in publishing this blog post. I had not anticipated how exhausted I would get while fulfilling the Annual Reading orders. I had planned on working on the video and blog post in the second half of the day, after I’d done my reading in the first half. I had not factored in any time for rest and recuperation. Well, lesson learned! Which, btw, is super Sagittarius, if you ask me. 🥹 So without any further ado, let’s begin!

Sagittarius Decans: Mercury in Sagittarius + Moon in Sagittarius + Saturn in Sagittarius

The three Sagittarius Decans invite us to go on a philosophical quest with them, as we explore how the Planetary lords of those Decans interact with the energies of the Zodiac Sign of Sagittarius. We’ll look at the 8 of Wands (Mercury in Sagittarius), the 9 of Wands (Moon in Sagittarius), and the 10 of Wands (Saturn in Sagittarius).

But first, let’s get to know the Zodiac Sign of Sagittarius.

Astrology: Sagittarius ♐︎

The Sun traverses through the Zodiac sign of Sagittarius typically from the 23rd of November to the 21st of December. Sagittarius is a Fire Sign, and is ruled by the planet Jupiter.

Mythology: Chiron – The Wounded Healer & Wise Teacher

Chiron’s lineage is quite extraordinary. He was the son of the powerful Titan Cronus and the beautiful nymph Philyra. Now, most Centaurs who roamed the ancient world were often portrayed as violent, untamed, and lacking in intelligence. But Chiron was different. Because of his divine parentage, he possessed a higher intelligence, a gentle nature, and immense compassion. He wasn’t just a wild beast; he was a master of medicine, prophecy, hunting, and, of course, archery. Here is where we get the bow and arrow as the Symbol of Sagittarius!

His wisdom and incredible ability to teach made him a revered mentor to many of the most famous heroes in Greek mythology, legends like Hercules, Achilles, Jason, Asclepius, and Perseus. These were heroes in their own right, achieving monumental feats, and Chiron was their guide, shaping them into the legends we know today.

Here’s where Chiron’s story takes a poignant turn and introduces us to a powerful archetype. Being the son of a Titan and a nymph, Chiron was immortal. One day, tragically, Hercules accidentally shot him with an arrow. This wasn’t just any arrow, mind you; it was tipped with the venom of the Hydra, a monstrous, snake-like creature known for its deadly poison. (Not the Marvel villain, though perhaps it was the inspiration for it! 😉)

The arrow struck Chiron, and because he was immortal, he couldn’t die. But the poison caused him indescribably horrible, excruciating pain. This is where we see the birth of the “Wounded Healer” archetype. Chiron, a master healer, was utterly unable to heal himself from this wound. His suffering was immense.

The Punishment of Prometheus

What happened next, as the myth goes, is truly a testament to his compassion and wisdom. He ultimately traded his immortality with Prometheus.

Prometheus was suffering an eternal punishment for stealing fire and giving it to humanity. Zeus had condemned Prometheus to have his liver eaten by an eagle every single day, only for it to grow back overnight, ensuring his endless torment.

In this selfless act of exchanging his immortality with Prometheus, Chiron not only ended his own suffering by becoming mortal and thus free to die, but he also freed Prometheus from his eternal pain. In recognition of this profound sacrifice and wisdom, Chiron was elevated to the heavens, transformed into the constellation we now know as Sagittarius.

This myth helps us understand so much about the Sagittarian energy. It explains the “wounded healer” archetype embodied by Chiron. This story also illuminates the quest for knowledge, the profound wisdom, the compassionate teaching, and the pursuit of freedom that are so central to Sagittarius.

Astrology: Sagittarius ♐︎

When we look at the energy of the sign Sagittarius, we see how all these different aspects combine and bring the whole vibe together:

• Fiery Properties: As a fire sign, Sagittarius is bursting with passion, energy, and a dynamic drive. Most Sagittarians you meet will be joyful, cheerful, and incredibly enthusiastic. They often possess a fantastic sense of humor and an unwavering optimism that can be truly infectious.
• Adventure & Expansion: They are true adventure-seekers and thrill-seekers, always passionate about new experiences. They constantly want to expand their horizons, both in their inner and outer worlds. This isn’t just superficial travel; it goes deep. They want to know more, see more, and open up their minds to new philosophies and truths. They love to travel, gather experiences, and accumulate wisdom, and they often feel a strong urge to help others broaden their horizons, too.
• Strength & Curiosity: The fire energy brings strength and stamina, making them very outdoorsy, restless, and intensely curious. Their truth-seeking isn’t just about facts; it involves seeking deep meaning and purpose in everything they do. They want life to be meaningful and purposeful, and they are masters at transforming raw knowledge into profound wisdom.
• Higher Learning & Philosophy: Sagittarius governs higher education, the pursuit of abstract truths, philosophy, and big-picture thinking. The expansive Jupiterian energy opens their minds and broadens their perspectives. Jupiter also brings in themes of belief, philosophy, religion, and the study of the metaphysical – all areas where Sagittarius naturally thrives.
• The Straight Shooter: Sagittarians can be quite the “straight shooters.” They say what they think, often without much filter, and while this is usually meant in a good way, it can sometimes ruffle a few feathers! But rest assured, they rarely intend to cause offense; it’s simply their direct way of being.
• Ambition & Conviction: They can be incredibly ambitious and act powerfully on their convictions, giving them a strong sense of righteous purpose. They enjoy their achievements and always strive for higher goals. They have a great reverence for humanity and often project an image of sophistication, nobility, and confidence.

Now, as with any energy, if things go to the extreme, Sagittarius can also manifest some less desirable traits:

• Recklessness: Their adventurous spirit can sometimes tip over into recklessness.
• Dogmatism: Their strong beliefs and philosophical convictions can become rigid and dogmatic, making them unwilling to consider other viewpoints.
• Tactlessness: Their “straight shooting” can, at times, come across as tactless or blunt.
• Pushing Beliefs: Their desire to help others expand their horizons can sometimes be perceived as pushing their own beliefs onto others.
• Self-Righteousness & Arrogance: Acting on their convictions can appear self-righteous, and occasionally, they might become hypocritical or arrogant, prone to showing off.
• Superficiality: They can sometimes be overly concerned with outward appearances, leading them to be seen as irresponsible or superficial. 

These fascinating and sometimes contradictory energies of the Sagittarian people and the sign of Sagittarius are a rich tapestry of wisdom, adventure, and the pursuit of truth.

Sagittarius in Tarot: Temperance

Sagittarius is linked with the Temperance card. 

Most Temperance images across various decks feature a person or an angel – often the Archangel Michael in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck. You’ll almost always see two cups or two different vessels, with liquid being poured from one into the other or onto something. We consistently see a theme of blending, mixing, and transformation. It’s all about the alchemical union of opposites.

Can we see the Sagittarian vibes of exploration, adventure, passion, philosophy, and healing in these images? I think we see snippets of it, shades of these energies beautifully woven into the imagery of the Temperance card.

Let’s do a quick comparative imagery dive:

In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, we see a majestic angel, commonly identified as Archangel Michael, pouring liquid from a bottom cup into a top cup. This imagery is deeply connected to alchemy, where the ultimate goal was to convert silver into gold and thus create a Philosopher’s Stone. In essence, it speaks to an evolution, a profound transformation that is actively happening.

The angel has one foot in the water and one foot on land, symbolizing a perfect balance between the practical and emotional realms. We see a crown-like object in the background, suggesting that the ego has been dropped, allowing for a higher connection. The irises in the foreground are associated with Iris, the goddess of rainbows and a messenger connecting with the divine. Angels, too, serve as divine conduits.

This card speaks to mastery and the role of the teacher, echoing Chiron’s wisdom. It embodies the inner and outer transformation that is a hallmark of Sagittarius. As you heal, as you travel, as you broaden your horizons and learn about the world, you gain perspective, and you become transformed. You become the master of your own journey. We definitely see those snippets and shades of Sagittarian wisdom here.

In the Tarot de Marseille image, we see an angel with two jugs, the liquid flowing between them. Again, this symbolizes blending, purification, and the integration of opposites. It also speaks of restraint and mediation. Doesn’t this remind you of Chiron’s role, mediating between the gods and the creatures, the Centaurs, and ultimately becoming the great teacher? This card also brings in themes of forgiveness and deep healing, a true spiritual alchemy.

Now, the Thoth deck is always interesting, and its Temperance card, which Crowley called “Art,” is no exception. Here, we see an androgynous figure with two heads and multiple breasts – a fascinating depiction of duality merging and the power of nourishing. The figure wears a green dress adorned with bees, symbols of fertility, nature, and the spreading of pollen. She is mixing sulfur (representing fire) with water (representing mercury) – a clear visual of the alchemical art of uniting opposites.

In the foreground, there’s a golden kettle with a skull and a raven, which, according to Crowley, signifies “putrefaction and death as a necessary fermentation process for new life.” It’s about letting go for rebirth. We also see a white lion and a red eagle, representing a powerful reversal of normal reality, highlighting the alchemical process. A rainbow-colored stream of light with an arrow rises from the kettle, symbolizing the release of energy and the awakening of the spirit, connecting the spiritual and earthly worlds once more.

Interestingly, there’s a Latin inscription: “Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem,” which means, “Visit the interior parts of Earth; by rectification you shall find the hidden stone.” This, of course, refers to the Philosopher’s Stone, the ultimate goal of alchemy. Interestingly enough,  Philosophy is definitely within the realm of Sagittarius. I love how these connections reveal themselves!

Finally, in the Telos Tarot, we see many similar shades and themes. This card features Diana the Huntress, a winged and crowned goddess with a flashing golden belt. From her right hand, she pours flame (like the sulfur/fire) onto an eagle, and with her left hand, she pours water onto a lion. By her feet, we see a moon-shaped cauldron from which smoke rises like perfume.

Again, this is a vivid depiction of alchemical tempering and the union of opposites. It’s about alchemy, which is the historical roots of chemistry, and the search for the Philosopher’s Stone was also profoundly symbolic. It speaks to the inner and outer transformation, which is so much a part of Sagittarian energy. The mastery, the evolution, and then the sharing and teaching of that wisdom – we can see all of that here.

Both the Thoth and Telos cards are called Art, and I really resonate with that keyword. Art itself is a process of bringing something from one’s inner world into the outer world. In this creative process, everything evolves, both inside and out. When you create something, a fascinating process of evolution unfolds, mirroring the Sagittarian journey of self-discovery and growth.

With this deep understanding of Sagittarius’s energy and its beautiful reflection in the Temperance card, let’s explore how these vibrant energies manifest in the three Sagittarius Decans. 

Sagittarius Decans I: Mercury in Sagittarius: ☿ in ♐︎ : Flash of Inspiration + Adventurous Exploration

Mercury rules the first Decan of Sagittarius. This decan spans the ten days from the 23rd of November to the 2nd of December.

The Picatrix describes this Sagittarius Decan with an intriguing image: **”Three bodies: first is red, second is white, and third is red.”** It associates this decan with valor, activity, pleasure, patience, and chivalry.

When we look at the image of the 8 of Wands in the Telos deck, we see three distinct images of Mercury – one black, one red, and one white – along with a rainbow and lightning bolts. While the specific meaning of the “three figures” in Picatrix might be a bit esoteric, the core message of activity, valor, and patience absolutely resonates here.

Astrology: Mercury ☿ + Tarot: The Magician

We know Mercury is the planet of the mind, of intellectual stimulation, reason, and the expression of thoughts and ideas. It governs communication, learning, curiosity, and commerce. Mercury is all about transitions and adaptability, but let’s be honest, it can also be a bit of a trickster, a bit fickle, can’t it? These are all very Mercurial vibes.

In our Tarot cards, Mercury is fundamentally connected with The Magician card (Major Arcana I). Think about The Magician: he has the power to manifest things by his sheer will, using the tools of the elements laid before him. He communicates, he creates, he makes things happen. Whether you look at the images from the Rider-Waite-Smith, Tarot de Marseille, Thoth, or Telos decks, The Magician always has all the elements (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles) at his disposal, able to manipulate and control them. With his ability to transition through realms and communicate with diverse energies, he’s a master manifester.

The first Sagittarius Decan is charged with the energy of making things happen through communication, creativity, and manifestation. It’s about mental agility, about possessing and utilizing various skills. Yes, it can also lean into the “sleight of hand,” “misdirection,” and “trickery” aspects of Mercury if things go awry, but primarily, it’s about dynamic action.

Astrology: Mercury ☿ in Sagittarius ♐︎

The Oracle of the Radiant Sun gives this combination the title “Discovery,” which feels incredibly apt!

From a purely astrological perspective, Mercury is actually considered to be in detriment in Sagittarius. This means its usual intellectual precision can be a bit impeded or scattered by Sagittarius’s expansive, truth-seeking, sometimes blunt nature. It’s like Mercury needs a little bit of a push to get going, but once it does, it truly thrives in this Sagittarian space.

Think of it this way: Mercury is all about adventure, and so is Sagittarius! This is a mind that responds incredibly well to further education, a continual search for personal philosophy and truth. It’s about discovering new philosophies or religions, driven by an insatiable curiosity. This placement also hints at a seemingly prophetic insight into public trends and opinions, making one successful at “playing hunches.” These individuals will say what they think and mean it – that classic Sagittarian directness combined with Mercurial articulation. It’s also a powerful energy for conventional involvement in politics, where ideas are debated and spread.

People influenced by this decan tend to like people, and people like them back!

This energy is fantastic for planning a long trip, as it combines Mercury’s logistical thinking with Sagittarius’s wanderlust. These are individuals who love traveling and truly enjoy the company of people from other cultures. It could even indicate a visit from someone abroad, a journey to learn a foreign language, or following a mentor or guru who expands your mind.

On the flip side, if the energy is misaligned, the “detriment” aspect of Mercury might show up. This can make them overly concerned with other people’s attitudes and opinions, allowing these external factors to color their ideas and decisions. They might use their ability to have a finger on the pulse of the zeitgeist simply to gain popularity, rather than for genuine discovery or truth. The ego needs to be kept in check here. But generally, once that initial push is given, Mercury in Sagittarius thrives, eager for intellectual adventure!

The Number: 8

Now, let’s layer in the energy of the number Eight. Eight is all about accomplishment, consolidation, and refining. It speaks of change, transformation, and shifts in direction. It carries an ambitious vibe, often associated with law, balance, and, sometimes, self-destructive tendencies when the balance is lost.

All of these energies merge beautifully in the 8 of Wands.

Sagittarius Decans I + Tarot: 8 of Wands: Mercury in Sagittarius: ☿ in ♐︎ : Flash of Inspiration + Adventurous Exploration

This is one of those fascinating Tarot cards where, in many decks, there are no people depicted, just the wands themselves. It’s all about the pure energy in motion.

8 of Wands

In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, we see eight wands drawn in parallel, soaring through the air. I interpret that as harmony and swift forward movement. It suggests a rush of positive and harmonious energy. Everything that requires the fiery power of the Wands suit moves in tandem nicely. It’s often interpreted as multiple things moving smoothly and rapidly towards a goal, a message arriving quickly, or a sudden burst of activity that propels you forward.

The Tarot de Marseille offers a slightly different, yet equally insightful interpretation. Here, we see four wands bunched up, crisscrossed against another four wands, forming a more structured, almost interwoven pattern. We also see little flower-like motifs popping up at two ends. This depiction leans into themes of regulation, rules, and structures. The “eight” energy truly comes into play here, suggesting that people can only advance by following established rules. It signifies nice, structured movement within a complex situation, perhaps a maze of crossing paths. It’s about putting thoughts and actions in order, ensuring that even in a bustling environment, there is an underlying organization and purpose.

The Thoth Tarot aptly titles this card “Swiftness.” Here, we see eight lightning bolts, appearing to go in all eight directions, originating from a three-dimensional octahedron. A rainbow is also present, connecting realms. This imagery speaks volumes!

These lightning bolts represent flashes of inspiration that burst forth from the higher worlds and penetrate our reality. Remember Mercury is inspiration, and in Sagittarius, it brings breakthroughs and insights. It’s like those “aha!” moments, those sudden solutions to problems that just appear out of nowhere.

You experience inspirational flashes, and things happen quickly and positively. This card can indicate foreign business deals (hello, Sagittarius travel!), overcoming old patterns (eight is also about structures), and of course, those wonderfully sudden insights that give you the energy you need to move past old blockages. And yes, it’s also famously associated with “love at first sight” – that swift, undeniable spark!

In the Telos deck, we revisit those three versions of Mercury – black, red, and white – with the rainbow again prominent. This card embodies speed, messages, and deliveries – all classic Mercury energies. It speaks of communications that are inspired but often fleeting, those brilliant “light bulb moments” and intense brainstorming sessions. It represents growth, boldness, liberty, and travel.

Interestingly, it also mentions “warfare” and “virulent propagation” – anything that spreads rapidly, like a virus (but hopefully a good idea!). This Sagittarius Decan is about the dissemination of ideas and propaganda (in a neutral sense of spreading information), and strong sales ability. In our modern context, this card could absolutely talk about videos that go viral or any kind of content that spreads like wildfire across the internet.

Do you see how it all connects? The Sagittarian vibe of learning, philosophy, and grand ideas, combined with Mercury’s communication and inspiration, makes things move and spread. Especially in fields such as travel, wisdom, and philosophy, this decan is about the rapid, exciting sharing of knowledge and truth. It’s a truly dynamic energy!

Sagittarius Decans II: Moon in Sagittarius: ☾ in ♐︎ : Challenge & Struggle + Adapt Vigilantly

The second Sagittarius Decan is associated with the Moon, and it spans the time frame between the 3rd of December and the 12th of December. This decan is linked with the 9 of Wands.

Here, the Picatrix gives us a vivid, somewhat unsettling description: “A man driving cows, and a monkey and a wolf in front of him.” Some texts mention an ape and a bear, but the essence is the same. The associated meanings are quite striking: fright, loss, weeping, fear, sadness, and violence.

When we look at the image from the Telos deck, we actually see this very image: a man going about his business with his cows, confronted by these wild creatures in his path. It’s certainly a scene that could inspire fright and a sense of being blocked. 

Astrology: Moon ☾ + Tarot: The High Priestess

Let’s explore the energy of the Moon. As we know, the Moon is not a planet but a powerful satellite that rules the watery sign of Cancer. It’s intrinsically linked to our personality, our emotions, our sense of satisfaction, and themes of motherhood and nurturing.

The Moon embodies receptivity, feminine energies, instinct, and intuition. It delves into our inner motivations, our inner calling, and those subtle emotional undercurrents that guide us. But the Moon also touches upon our insecurities, anxieties, and fears. Because of its ever-changing phases, Moon energy can be very changeable, with the intensity of these emotions ebbing and flowing.

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  2: The High Priestess

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  The High Priestess - Tarot de Marseilles

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  The High Priestess - Thoth Tarot

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In the Tarot, the Moon is represented by The High Priestess (Major Arcana II). She is the embodiment of inner knowledge and inner wisdom. She’s all about silence, contemplation, intuition, and empathy. She represents that quiet, feminine wisdom and insight, the inner transformation that happens when we listen to our deepest self. She holds immense potential, ready to manifest if she chooses to. The High Priestess is connected with the ability to traverse different realms, much like Persephone, who travels between the Underworld and the mortal realm. She offers inner guidance and creates the necessary undercurrents for profound inner growth and development.

Astrology: Moon in Sagittarius: ☾ in ♐︎

Now, imagine this deep, intuitive Moon energy showing up in the expansive, optimistic sign of Sagittarius. How does that dynamic play out? The Oracle of the Radiant Sun titles this combination “Optimism,” which might seem surprising given the Picatrix description, but let’s see why.

The card imagery from the Oracle of the Radiant Sun is very interesting: a damsel riding a pair of majestic seahorses. The horse, of course, is Sagittarius’s iconic beast, and the fish tails represent the watery Moon. In the sky, a cherub leads a Voodoo ritual diagram, conjuring truth, justice, and love ruled by reason. It’s a complex blend! Here, the deck assigns “security” to the Moon and “optimism and adventure” to Sagittarius. Together, this creates an emotionally idealistic person. These are individuals who express their feelings honestly and expect others to be equally straightforward with them.

They can be confident and very frank, which, as we’ve seen, is a recurring Sagittarian feature! They often possess far-thinking abilities, with their sights set on distant lands and abstract truths – very Sagittarian, indeed. They enjoy traveling, and with the Moon’s influence, there’s a deep, unconscious, and emotional attachment to Sagittarian traits, such as religious, social, and ethical values inherited from family during childhood. This is the very essence of Moon energy, connecting with our roots and upbringing.

However, on the more challenging side, this combination can also make them narrow-minded and dogmatic. Their social or religious outlook can become extreme, immovable, and even fundamentalist if not balanced. But fundamentally, this Moon in Sagittarius vibe gives you someone who is honest, loves to travel, and has a deep, intuitive attachment to the values they’ve absorbed.

The Number: 9

Then, we combine all of this with the energy of the number Nine. Nine is all about culmination and completion. It speaks of rewards and consequences, humanitarian energies, and social reform. It’s also often linked to karma and, at times, disappointment as the cycle concludes. All these powerful energies merge in the Nine of Wands.

Sagittarius Decans II: Moon in Sagittarius: ☾ in ♐︎ : Challenge & Struggle + Adapt Vigilantly

In the Tarot, this card often evokes a sense of resilience and defensiveness.

9 of Wands

In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, we see a young man with a bandage wrapped around his head, a clear sign of past hurts or battles. He stands protectively, clutching a ninth wand, while eight other wands stand behind him, forming a sort of barrier. His posture clearly says, “I’m going to take care of myself; I’m not going to get hurt again.” It’s a very protective stance, a guarding of boundaries. This really resonates with the Moon’s energy, which can be very nurturing and protective, especially when it comes to the “nest” or one’s emotional safety, and here it’s coupled with Sagittarius’s principles.

The Tarot de Marseille offers a different take on the Nine of Wands. It uses the same structured arrangement we saw in the Eight of Wands, but now, the ninth wand has pushed right through the middle of that harmonious structure. What does this mean? Whatever was smoothly and harmoniously happening in the Eight of Wands – that organized movement within a complex situation – is now being interrupted. This card signifies difficulties and oppositions that force a stop to that movement. There’s a struggle, and it’s hard to overcome this opposition, indicating a challenging period where your path might be blocked or significantly altered.

The Thoth Tarot provides a contrasting, incredibly empowering image. This card is titled “Strength,” and it depicts a pattern of the Wands similar to the Tarot de Marseille card, with eight arrows crisscrossing. Here, however, they are pointing downward, signifying forces that activate unconscious energies. Interestingly, the tips of these arrows resemble Moon crescents. We see another arrow that is perpendicular to the surface and also points downward, featuring a Moon crescent. However, there’s a solar orb on the other end of this arrow. This arrow, then, connects the energies of the Sun and Moon, representing the harmony between the conscious and unconscious mind.

Therefore, this card is about the flow of energy and an abundance of resources. It speaks to anticipation and inspiration, a very Mercurial quality that shows up here. It’s about trusting one’s abilities, having the courage and commitment to begin a new plan, and reaching a new level of enthusiasm.

Do you see how this image is completely different in vibe from the Rider-Waite Smith’s defensiveness and the Marseille’s blockage? Here, it’s about finding inner power and momentum.

Finally, in the Telos deck, we see the image derived from the Picatrix: the man driving his cows, blocked by the ape and the bear. This is interesting because I believe the Theos image beautifully combines aspects of all three previous cards. It’s saying, “Hey, look forward, be flexible!” This is about the ability to adapt to change, which ultimately gives you strength. It signifies a steadiness and balance between solar (conscious) and lunar (unconscious) forces, granting the ability to unify both powers.

But it’s also a card of vigilance: “Vigilant and ready to hit the target. Align the mind and body. The ability to adapt with cunning.” The man embodies the Sagittarius vibe — he has his bow and arrow. He can protect his cows and himself if these creatures attack him. He’s prepared. He’s not just randomly wandering into danger. He’s ready. The Moon energy gives him that little intuitive awareness, and he uses that to prepare. It’s the strength of the number nine energy: facing challenges with readiness and inner wisdom. So, yes, challenges will come, but he will figure it out. He’s adapting to whatever comes his way.

Thus, the Nine of Wands, Moon in Sagittarius, is a rich tapestry of energies, especially because the energy of the Moon is so changeable. You see these different shades of its influence in each of these four cards, all playing out in the expansive, truth-seeking playground of the Sagittarian vibe. It’s truly fascinating to see!

Sagittarius Decans III: Saturn in Sagittarius: ♄ in ♐︎ : Joyful Burden + Enduring Struggle

Saturn rules the third Sagittarius Decan and spans the ten days from the 13th of December to the 21st of December. It is linked with the 10 of Wands.

The Picatrix description for this decan is quite stark: “A man wearing a cap of gold on his head killing another man.” The associated meanings are equally intense: violent, taking risks, unwarranted involvement, and exerting efforts in disgraceful, shameful, and harmful actions. This is seen as a particularly “bad decan” by Thoth and other ancient astrologers.

Indeed, when we look at the Telos deck’s depiction, we see this figure with ten sticks tied up, possibly with an axe, poised to harm another person. It sets a very heavy and challenging vibe, doesn’t it? Saturn in this decan of Sagittarius seems to be bringing forth some difficult energies.

Astrology: Saturn ♄ + Tarot: The World

Let’s remember the energy of Saturn, often called the “Lord of Karma.” He’s an earth planet, ruling Capricorn and Aquarius. Saturn is all about wisdom gained through adversity, responsibility, duty, and personal authority. It brings accountability, karmic justice, and humility, often through service without expectation. Saturn also defines boundaries, borders, structures, and foundations. It represents traditions, discipline, ambition, time, longevity, control, stability, and patience. Determination and pragmatism are strong Saturnian traits.

However, on the flip side, Saturn can also bring restrictions, obstacles, struggles, and delays. It can make us feel stuck in old ways, forced hard work, and present us with trials and karmic lessons. It’s often feared for the challenges it brings, but ultimately, Saturn guides us toward maturity and strength.

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  21: The World

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  The World - Tarot de Marseilles

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In our Tarot, Saturn is associated with The World card (Major Arcana XXI). I’ve mentioned this a few times, but when I see the laurel wreath or the circle in The World card, it always reminds me of the rings of Saturn. The World card signifies completion, fulfillment, and the accomplishment of long-term goals. It speaks of travel (Sagittarius!), manifestation, and the successful end of a long journey. So, you do see that Saturnian energy of culmination and achievement here, along with all the other elements that make up the Tarot World.

Astrology: Saturn in Sagittarius: ♄ in ♐︎

Now, let’s look at what happens when this structured, karmic Saturnian energy combines with the expansive, optimistic Sagittarius. The Oracle of the Radiant Sun titles this combination “Fulfillment,” which is a much more positive spin!

The card from the Oracle of the Radiant Sun depicts a man sitting, waiting for a boat or ship, ready to travel abroad. He has a sack of money, an ancient talisman for good fortune in any lottery. He’s traveling, perhaps for business or trade, and seems to be praying for luck. Here, Saturn represents ambition, and Sagittarius represents optimism and adventure. When these combine, things can be very nice indeed! This is about fulfilling a quest for knowledge and truth.

This Saturnian energy in Sagittarius is deeply ambitious. This person will travel (Sagittarius) to fulfill their ambitions (Saturn). They can become an authority (Saturn) in philosophy and religion (Sagittarius). They will speak out and stick to a strong moral code (Saturn), characteristic of Sagittarius, and will be unable to stand hypocrisy. There’s a solid sense of achievement, a realistic optimism, and it can signify long-distance business trips or the successful culmination of an ambitious business venture.

On the negative side, just like other Sagittarian placements, this can make individuals self-righteous. They might impose their philosophy and ethics on others and be quite blunt. Here’s that recurrent Sagittarian bluntness again! 

And you know what? I’ve actually experienced that, and I have no problems with it! As a Leo rising and a Capricorn Sun (my sun sign!), I’ve interestingly discovered that many people I genuinely get along with have a very strong Sagittarian connection. So there’s that! 😊

The Number: 10

Now, let’s integrate the energy of the number Ten. Ten is a powerful number of transitions. One represents beginnings, and zero represents the raw material, the limitless nothingness and everythingness, the potential before manifestation. When they combine, ten signifies either success or failure, completion and culmination, anything that goes to the extreme. It speaks of accumulation and dissolution, the cycles of ascent and descent. It’s where one cycle ends, and another is poised to begin.

With this powerful vibe, what do we see in the Ten of Wands when connected with Saturn in Sagittarius?

Sagittarius Decans II: Saturn in Sagittarius: ♄ in ♐︎ : Joyful Burden + Enduring Struggle

10 of Wands

This card often speaks of burdens, responsibilities, and the weight of achievement.

In the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, we see a man who has gathered all ten wands and is carrying them, his head almost hidden within the bundle. He’s willingly taken on all these burdens. This is pure Saturn energy – responsibility, duty, and carrying a heavy load. But it’s with wands, the fire of Sagittarius, so he’s not just burdened, he’s passionately carrying these burdens. He dives right into it, perhaps to the point of becoming a workaholic. He “goes nuts” with the amount he takes on. It’s a heavy load, but one he’s chosen.

In the Tarot de Marseille, we again see the familiar structure of the eight wands, but now two additional wands go right through the middle of it. We also see leaves that have sprung up, signifying nourishment. These two wands, now making ten, appear to overcome the entanglement of the eight. This suggests a partnership or relationship that endures a difficult period without breaking. It signifies a trustworthy person in charge during difficult times, and the message that persistence pays off. In this context, the ten wands represent enduring through a complex, challenging structure.

Crowley’s Thoth deck titles this card “Oppression,” which immediately gives us a heavier sense. Here, we see eight flaming wands representing blazing impulses and uncontrolled energies in the wild flames of the background. But in the foreground, two powerful Tibetan ritual wands stand, symbolizing the control and suppression of these fiery energies. So, whatever uncontrolled energy is happening with the eight wands, these two foreground wands are actively trying to control it.

This is a subtle but very interesting difference from the imagery of the Tarot de Marseille card. There, the two central wands push through the crisscrossing eight wands. In the Thoth image, the two wands lie above the crisscrossing eight wands. In the Tarot de Marseille, the energy is of pushing past the hurdles to achieve a breakthrough. In the Thoth, it’s about control: the two wands manage and contain a powerful force, often with difficulty.

Finally, the Telos deck brings us back to the stark Picatrix image: the man with the axe ready to kill another. This truly embodies the challenging interpretations for this decan:

• Violent, blind force.
• Sagittarian fire smothered by the authoritarian regime of Saturn.
• Difficult to resist and carry on in the face of overbearing barbarism.
• Obstinate will in the pursuit of ambitions.
• Exhaustion via enduring responsibilities.
• Persevering through complete commitment to a goal despite its difficulty.

Do you see the different shades of this same energy showing up? From one end, where there’s a conscious choice to take on burdens (RWS), to the other extreme of “overbearing barbarism” (Telos). In Marseille, the two wands are getting through the pressure, while in Thoth, they are trying to control the overall flow of energy. Each deck offers a unique, but valid, perspective on Saturn in Sagittarius in the Ten of Wands. It’s a powerful exploration of responsibility, ambition, and the trials that come with them.

Sagittarius Decans + Tarot: The Supporting Cards

So, we’ve walked through the expansive fields of the Sagittarius Decans, exploring its core myth, its Major Arcana card, and the intricate dance of planetary energies within each decan. We’ve seen Mercury’s swift messages, the Moon’s intuitive depths, and Saturn’s weighty ambition all play out through the Wands. Now, let’s bring it all together and see who else joins our Sagittarian supporting cast!

Supporting the cards of the Sagittarius Decans are the Ace of Cups, the Page of Cups, the King of Wands, and the Queen of Pentacles.

Ace of Cups: The Source of Joy and Intuition

Interestingly, for a fire sign like Sagittarius, the Ace of Cups often shows up as a supporting energy. This card represents the emotional, spiritual root of the powers of water. While Sagittarius is fiery, its quest for truth and meaning often leads it to deep spiritual enlightenment. This card speaks of a deep wellspring of intuition, emotional fulfillment, and spiritual beginnings – a beautiful complement to the Archer’s adventurous spirit, offering profound insight into the inner world. It’s about opening your heart to a new spiritual journey, a journey that deeply resonates with Sagittarius’s philosophical leanings.

Page of Cups: The Innocent Explorer of Emotions

Following the Ace, we often see the Page of Cups. I would say, on some level, the Page of Cups is like the purest, youngest, or very nascent manifestation of that Ace of Cups energy, if it were a person. This is an individual brimming with a very intuitive, genuine water energy. They bring creativity, sensitivity, and intuition, often with a romantic vibe. The Page of Cups encourages us to explore our emotions with an open heart, to be receptive to new feelings and artistic inspirations. This energy can help balance the sometimes overly rational or blunt Sagittarian approach, adding a layer of empathetic understanding to their quest for truth.

King of Wands: The Passionate Visionary

Now, let’s talk Wands! For the 8 of Wands and 9 of Wands, which are about enthusiasm and vigilance, the King of Wands is a powerful supporting figure. This is the Fire of Fire, the purest manifestation of the Wands element. We see this very passionate energy in the King – an ambitious, creative, and motivated person. He is goal-oriented, courageous, and brave, known for swift action and a constructive approach to conflict. He has vision, charisma, and the ability to inspire others. This King embodies the fully realized, confident, and action-oriented Sagittarian who has mastered their inner fire and is ready to lead the way on their philosophical quest, navigating challenges with powerful determination.

Queen of Pentacles: The Practical Nurturer

And for the earthy influence of Saturn in the Ten of Wands, the Queen of Pentacles steps forward. Here we have a very earthy, feminine energy. She is the Water of Earth, embodying a beautiful balance between nurturing energies and very practical Earth matters. She’s the one who can perfectly balance home and work, being efficient, creative, practical, and deeply nurturing. The Queen of Pentacles represents stability, maturity, and a keen intuition about money and resources. She is sensual, fertile, mature, stable, and utterly trustworthy. With her realistic business acumen and grounded ambition, she carries a lot of that constructive Saturn energy. She’s down-to-earth and practical, providing a stable foundation for Sagittarius’s expansive ideas, ensuring that their lofty goals can be manifested in the real world. This nurturing, grounded energy can be a wonderful support for the sometimes overwhelming responsibilities presented by Saturn in Sagittarius.

Sagittarius Decans: The Philosophy of Adventure

As we look at the energies of the Sagittarius Decans, we see how the energies of the planets Mercury, Moon, and Saturn have interacted with the energy of Sagittarius.

In the first Sagittarius Decan, Mercury, despite being in detriment, brings the enthusiasm and positive energy required to embark upon the adventurous quest of knowledge. This is done joyfully and passionately, and even systematically. The exploration is on several levels, from the mundane to the spiritual.

In the second Sagittarius Decan, however, the intuitive and changeable energies of the Moon create an instinctive insight within the questing energies. One immediately becomes vigilant and adapts to the changes one senses. One braces for the struggle against rigid norms and rules, even as one unites the inner and outer wisdom to generate the necessary strength to face that struggle.

Finally, in the third Sagittarius Decan, Saturn brings its heavy sense of responsibility and duty and imposes rules and restrictions that burden the adventures of Sagittarius. Here, taking on responsibilities can range from an act of service to an exercise of endurance to a push for control and dominance, or, worse, a violent and oppressive force. In each stage, Saturn keeps upping the ante on its tough stance, making things more difficut for the enthusiastic and explorative Sagittarius energy.

Thus, we see that through these Sagittarius Decans, the rulers of those Decans either enhance the vibe of Sagittarius, or leverage the instinctive bravery of Sagittarius, or use Sagittarius’ sense of responsibility to impose heavy burdens on them. Even through this, the energy of Sagittarius persists, and the quest and philosophy of adventure, of seeking wisdom, of broadening one’s perspectives, will always remain at the forefront of the Archer’s Quest.

📸 The Infographic + ⬇️ The Download

Sagittarius Decans I + Tarot: 8 of Wands: Mercury in Sagittarius: ☿ in ♐︎ : Flash of Inspiration + Adventurous Exploration

Sagittarius Decans II: Moon in Sagittarius: ☾ in ♐︎ : Challenge & Struggle + Adapt Vigilantly

Sagittarius Decans II: Saturn in Sagittarius: ♄ in ♐︎ : Joyful Burden + Enduring Struggle

🎞️ The Video

Here’s the video I made about the Sagittarius Decans, where I explore how the energies of the Planets and Signs show up in the images of the Tarot Cards.

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📚 Homework

We’ve explored the vast and fascinating world of the Sagittarius decans. But the true magic happens when you take these insights and apply them to your own life! This is where you become an active co-creator of your reality, using the Tarot as a powerful mirror for your subconscious and a tool for self-understanding. So, let’s get to your homework! 🤓

📓 Things to Think (or Journal) about the Sagittarius Decans

Grab your journal, your favorite pen, and let’s unlock your mind’s inner recesses with these reflective prompts. Remember, there are no “wrong” answers here, just interesting challenges and new perspectives waiting to be discovered!

For Sagittarius and Temperance:

• Embracing Expansion: Where in your life are you currently feeling the urge to “expand” your horizons? Is it through travel, learning, or a new philosophy? How can you lean into this Sagittarian energy more fully?
• The Wounded Healer Within: Reflect on Chiron’s myth. What “wounds” have you carried that, through your journey, have transformed into sources of profound wisdom or a unique ability to help others? How can you embrace your own “wounded healer” archetype?
• Alchemical Balance: The Temperance card speaks of blending and integrating opposites. Where in your life can you seek greater balance between different energies – perhaps your practical and emotional sides, or your inner wisdom and outer actions?
• Philosopher’s Stone: The Thoth Temperance card’s inscription, “Visit the interior parts of Earth; by rectification you shall find the hidden stone,” points to a deep inner quest. What “hidden stone” – a core truth, a personal philosophy, or a profound self-understanding – are you currently seeking within yourself?

For the 8 of Wands (Mercury in Sagittarius):

• Swift Messages: Have you recently received any “swift messages” or flashes of inspiration that propelled you forward? How did you act on them, or how might you act on similar insights in the future?
• Viral Ideas: The 8 of Wands (especially in Telos) can speak to ideas spreading rapidly. What ideas or truths are you passionate about sharing or “propagating” in a positive sense? How can you use your communication skills (Mercury) to spread your message?
• Structured Movement: Consider the Tarot de Marseille 8 of Wands – structured movement in a complex situation. Where in your life do you need to bring more order and organization to a burst of activity or a new venture to ensure harmonious progress?
• Discovery’s Detriment: Mercury in Sagittarius can sometimes be in detriment. Have you noticed times when your intellectual curiosity (Mercury) feels a bit scattered or needs a push (Sagittarius) before it thrives? How can you provide that initial impetus for your own discoveries?

For the 9 of Wands (Moon in Sagittarius):

• Prepared Resilience: The 9 of Wands in its various forms speaks of facing challenges with preparedness. When have you been like the man with his cows and bow – aware of obstacles but ready to adapt and persevere on your path? What inner resources did you tap into?
• Emotional Optimism: The Oracle of the Radiant Sun calls this decan “Optimism.” How do your deep emotional attachments (Moon) to your values (Sagittarius) fuel your sense of hope and adventure, even in the face of fear or setback?
• Protective Boundaries: The Rider-Waite-Smith 9 of Wands shows a defensive stance. Where in your life do you need to create healthier boundaries to protect yourself from past hurts, allowing you to move forward with newfound strength rather than lingering fear?
• Unconscious Strength: The Thoth 9 of Wands (Strength) emphasizes unifying conscious and unconscious powers. What intuitive whispers (Moon) are guiding you toward a new level of enthusiasm or a courageous new plan (Sagittarius)? How can you trust this inner guidance more?

For the 10 of Wands (Saturn in Sagittarius):

• Purposeful Burden: The Rider-Waite-Smith 10 of Wands depicts willingly carrying a heavy load. What responsibilities or ambitions have you consciously chosen to take on that, despite their weight, serve a higher purpose or a long-term goal for you (Saturn in Sagittarius)?
• Enduring Partnerships: The Marseille 10 of Wands talks about enduring difficult periods in a partnership. Reflect on a relationship or collaboration that has persevered through challenges. What qualities of loyalty and persistence allowed it to thrive?
• Smothered Fire: The Picatrix and Telos descriptions for this decan are quite intense, speaking of Sagittarian fire being “smothered” or facing “barbarism.” Have you ever felt your expansive, passionate spirit (Sagittarius) restricted or heavily burdened by external structures or responsibilities (Saturn)? How did you navigate this, or how might you reclaim your fire?
• Fulfillment’s Ambition: The Oracle of the Radiant Sun calls this “Fulfillment.” What ambitious quest for knowledge or truth are you currently on (Sagittarius), and how are you applying Saturnian discipline and pragmatism to ensure its successful culmination?

Through the Sagittarius Decans: What’s Your Philosophy for Adventure?

I absolutely love hearing from you! Your insights, your experiences, and your “aha!” moments are what make this Decan Walk journey so vibrant and enriching! Tell me: Which of these cards or planetary combinations resonated most deeply with you? Do you have a personal experience with Sagittarius energy that you’d love to share? What was your biggest takeaway from the journey through the Sagittarius Decans? What is your philosophy for adventure? What insights from our journey of the Sagittarius Decans will help you embrace your quest for the adventurous journey to seek your truth?