DISCIPLINE SELF-RELIANCE REFINEMENT
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BEING DISCIPLINED exercising self-control showing restraint reining in impulses sacrificing to reach a goal sticking to a program taking a step-by-step approach Reversed Early Phase: You may need more discipline in the future. Self-control may become important. Someone may have to be restrained. A firm hand may be necessary. Late Phase: Discipline is breaking down. Control measures are no longer in place. You're abandoning the program. People are less rigorous now. The regimen is no longer being followed. |
RELYING ON YOURSELF handling the situation alone acting on your own falling back on your own resources doing it all by yourself wanting to be alone feeling sure your way is best Reversed Early Phase: You're thinking of becoming more independent. You may be on your own in the future. Someone may become more self-reliant. You may need to break away at some point. Late Phase: It's no longer possible to do everything yourself. A period of independence is ending. Being on your own is less satisfying now. The need for self-reliance is no longer strong. |
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achieving/enjoying a comfortable lifestyle avoiding the coarse and unsavory being tactful and diplomatic seeking high-minded activities enjoying the finer things of life remembering to be gracious |
Reversed Early Phase: People may become more courteous. You may seek more refined activities in the future. The environment may become more pleasant. There's potential for gracious living. Late Phase: People are no longer cordial. The gracious environment is disappearing. You're less interested in refined activities now. The gloves are coming off. |
Description
The woman on the Nine of Pentacles is taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens of her estate. She is clearly a lady of refinement and grace, so it is incongruous to see on her left hand a bird trained to hunt and kill on command. Falconry is an unusual hobby for a gentlewoman, but it is the key to the special nature of this card.
On one hand, the Nine of Pentacles represents all that is gracious, high-minded, and civilized. Art, music, and other forms of beauty are very much part of our physical world (Pentacles). Coins are present in this scene, but they are toward the ground. The business of life is important, but we don't have to focus on practical matters all the time. We can enjoy the finer things of life. In readings, the Nine of Pentacles can imply an interest in these areas. It is also a sign that you may need to reject the coarse or offensive and seek the highest.
The Nine of Pentacles can also be a sign of discipline and self-control. This woman enjoys her cultured life because she has mastered her baser instincts—her impulses do not rule her. This falcon symbolizes all that is dark and unruly in human nature. Our shadow side can serve us well, but only when it is directed. Sometimes the Nine of Pentacles suggests that you must show restraint and self-control if you are to achieve your best efforts. You may have to “sacrifice” for the moment, but the results will be worth it.
This card is also a sign of self-reliance. Sometimes you must trust your own abilities and resist the temptation to let others do for you. Take matters into your own hands. Our elegant lady has done just that. She showed grit and determination, and now enjoys all the best life has to offer.
Some Possible Opposing Cards
Empress—earthy sensuality
Seven of Cups—being undisciplined, self-indulgent
Three of Pentacles—working in a team, doing with others
Some Possible Reinforcing Cards
Chariot—self-control, discipline
Seven of Swords—relying on yourself, acting on your own
