On the Symbolism of the First Tarot Card Image in IIH
© 2003
>> Till now, I was under the impression that the inversion of colors between male and female was related to the actual gender. Do I have to understand that the picture describes a "positive pole" and a "negative pole", which exists in everybody (...that's not new in itself) and which seems to be an additional notion to the magnetic and electric fluids ? <<
The two human figures represent the polarity that exists within *each* person, but the picture as a whole is meant to describe the Macro- and Microcosm.
>> This seems to be corroborated by the following sentence : "The hermaphrodite being in the middle, man and woman in one persona, is symbolic of the equilibrium between the male and female principle". So it doesn't look we talk about genders. <<
Well, the discussion *includes* physical gender but symbolically, not literally.
>> a) ...Does the above make sense, or are the two pictures still related to physical genders ? <<
Yes. ;-)
>> b) If the later is false, could I be right in inferring that it is this "plus/minus" pole in everybody which creates this inversion of fluids as shown on the picture, and which makes them to circulate from outside to inside, and vice-versa ? <<
Essentially, yes. The Elements and Fluids *ALWAYS* work in unison within the material and astral realms.
>> c) Why is the hermaphrodite not showing any circulation of fluids, even electro-magnetic ? Is it precisely because there is no "pole" anymore ? :-) <<
No, that's not quite it. If you examine the hermaphroditic figure very closely you'll see that it's right side is masculine/Electric and it's with its right hand that it connects to the female/Magnetic figure. Its left side is feminine/Magnetic and it's with its left hand that it connects with the male/Electric figure. So the poles still exist.
What the hermaphrodite (a combination of 'Hermes' and 'Aphrodite') represents is the perfect Equilibrium of the Elements and Fluids. An Equilibrium *encompasses* both poles AND the continuum of alikeness that exists between the two poles. This is really what distinguishes "balance" from "Equilibrium". With true Equilibrium, there is solidity and unshakeableness; whereas, balance always hinges upon a single point within the continuum between two poles and is therefore easily disrupted.
So, the reason there is no color shown on the hermaphrodite's body is to illustrate the perfect blending of the poles and the perfect control over their interaction (i.e., over their continuum of alikeness). The colors really indicate *difference*, while the lack of color here indicates *alikeness*, just as if you were to combine all the colors of the light spectrum.
My best to you,
:) Rawn Clark
03 Aug 2003