IIII. The Emperor

The Emperor

The Emperor is the next 'person' or 'obstacle' that the Fool encounters on his journey. He represents a leader, who is usually great at business or is relatively wealthy. Being powerful, stable, and reliant, he can also represent a father figure or older man that you are romantically involved with.

Basic Associations:

Colors: Red

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Element: Fire

Deity: Aries, Mars, Jupiter, Minerva, Zeus, Athena, Amon, Khnum, Horus

Other: High expectations, wealth

UPRIGHT- When the Emperor appears in readings it can a few meanings. One representing the past, as an authoritarian father who may have not shown his love for you in the best way. Another in present or future, foretelling an older wiser man who can lend some solid advice and leadership. If reading for a male it can also mean that they are going to step into that role themselves.

- Older man, Stability, Dependability, Fatherhood, Father-Figure, Structure, Protectiveness, Authority, Logical, Practical

REVERSED- The Emperor reversed usually means there is or was an older man in your life who may have some solid advice, but they may be abusing their power, or the message is coming across in a negative manner. It can also mean a father-figure in the past or present may have let you down.

-Abuse of Power, Excessively Controlling, Rigidity, Stubbornness, Lack of Discipline, Lack of Control, Absentee Father, Paternity Issues

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

UPRIGHT- When the Emperor appears in a reading for a person who is single, it may mean an older man is in the future who is reliable and like structure or routine. If you are interested in women, it means to open up more and do not try to gain too much control, let the feelings and time flow. If you are in a relationship, it indicates a strong monogamy and long-lasting relationships.

REVERSED- When in a relationship or friendship and this card appears reversed, it may mean there is an imbalance of power. Discuss things and compromise. If you are single this may indicate your past father traumas are infringing on your choice of partners. figure yourself out before you add another person's life into yours. This can also indicate a lack of commitment in yourself or others, be wary.

CAREER & FINANCES

UPRIGHT- Since one of the overall meanings of the Emperor is wealth and stability it should be an easy guess that when dealing with money and career opportunities it will bring recognition and praise, including wealth. Be reasonable with your new gained power and status, you do not want to become a tyrant!

REVERSED- When reversed the card doesn't necessarily mean the opposite of the upright meaning, the Emperor has tendencies to lose control or become too tyrannical. It is impossible to do everything yourself, ask others for help or look for a new opportunity and be prepared to learn and grow.

HEALTH

UPRIGHT- Even upright, the Emperor card is telling you to stop being harsh on your body. Work with your energy levels and internal schedules not against them.

REVERSED- Stop being so rigid in your daily routines, the stress and anger you feel throughout the day is coming out through your body pains, headaches, and lack of sleep, take a break. If you haven't been taking care of your body recently its time to start!

SPIRITUALITY

Regardless of position, the Emperor signifies a lack of spiritual connection. Your wealth and relationships may be flourishing, but that is because you've been putting all your energy and time into making that happen. Good for you, that's awesome! Now take some extra time to take care of your physical and spiritual well-being, they deserve it!

Stability, wealth, love, and so much more are in the cards for you. Don't lose control and remember why you wanted to get where you are.