This year, 2020, is a universal 4 year (2+0+2+0 = 4) which, in Tarot terms is represented by the 4th card of the Major Arcana – The Emperor.
Going into this year, knowing it was an Emperor year, I was looking forward to seeing some stability, order and structure shine through. For me, being in Australia, the year started out well. Sure, there were whispers about some virus happening in China but I wasn’t too concerned. January flowed into February and a few more rumblings were heard and then came March….
And all hell broke loose. Or so it seemed.
I looked at the Emperor and initially thought, “Well, the only way this year is the Empower is if he fell out of the deck reversed!” But, in true 2020 style, I learned that hindsight is a wonderful thing. Although we aren’t through 2020 yet, I can already see how, in many ways, the energy of the Emperor is enveloping our world.
Before I continue, please note, despite the title and seemingly obvious gender archetype, the energy of the Emperor is gender neutral. However, for the purpose of simplicity I will refer to the Emperor as ‘he’.
The Emperor is the Father figure of the Tarot. He represents a strong and powerful leader who provides for and protects his family. His energy is one of structure and rules. Discipline is firm but fair and he ensures his environment is organised so as to manifest his world the way he desires it for the benefit of all.
For some, the above description evokes feelings of protection, safety and security. For others, it signifies dominance, oppression and dictatorship.
And now, suddenly, the Emperor is making sense for 2020.
With a global pandemic sweeping our nations, our Leaders are being asked to step up, make tough decisions and enforce new rules. In other words, they are being asked to embrace the energy of the Emperor. Their role is to protect the people, keep us safe and ensure law and order while encouraging everyone to show personal responsibility and self-discipline. Some (and, no, I’m not going to name names as we each have our own opinions when it comes to what makes a good leader) have welcomed this challenge and embodied the true energy of the Emperor while others have floundered by either becoming too dogmatic and bombastic or crumbling under the pressure.
On an individual level, 2020 has also challenged us with the energy of the Emperor. Winning the war against this virus is about taking responsibility for our own actions; ensure we are following rules to safeguard the health of the community. We are being asked to set aside our own agendas to work together for the ‘greater good’. For some, this has inspired a whole new mindset of creativity. As the saying goes – “Necessity is the mother of invention”. We have been challenged to rethink our plans and our ways of making a living. Some have relished the opportunity to show leadership while others have been content in adhering to the many changes we now accept as our new COVID normal.
For some, though, the energy of the Emperor evokes feelings of challenge, rebelliousness and oppression particularly when faced with a leader who either enforces control with an iron fist or one who lacks the strength of character and courage to instil order. When that occurs, this year becomes one of discord, turbulence and disharmony. When control is lost, chaos can slip in. It is imperative then, that we look out for those who are struggling and keep them from falling through the cracks. In other words, you may be asked to be The Emperor for someone who fights against every attempt you make. Stay strong and courageous. A good leader is one who knows how to rule with love and compassion and, just as importantly, how to serve with humility and strength.
When faced with the challenges 2020 brings, the Emperor steps forward and takes charge. He empowers his troops with knowledge and truth before sending them into battle. He protects those at risk and creates an environment of security and trust.
The Tarot Seeker 