KEYWORDS

• Secret
• Mystery
• Unrevealed
• Knowledge
• Learning
• Education
• Intellect
• Discovery
• Reading
• Writing
• Teaching

OVERVIEW

Depending on the deck, the Book can be represented as either closed or open. This typically influences how we perceive its meaning. When closed, it tends to mean secrets, mysteries, the unknown, things unrevealed, and a destiny as yet undefined. When open, it tends to indicate that something is about to be revealed. But regardless of how the Book is represented in your deck, it can have any of these meanings because nearby cards influence how its interpreted.

The Book also represents knowledge, education, training, research, intellectual pursuits, writing, publishing, and creative expression in general. Though neutral, the Book inspires us to seek the truth. It’s primarily about knowledge and the wisdom to use it.

IN THE PORTRAIT & GRAND TABLEAU

The Book usually appears on the first or central card of the nine-card portrait when it’s too early to know the outcome of a query. Especially when it lands on the first card position, it advises us not to reveal ourselves or our plans. In this sense it’s similar to the Snake. But it can answer a query positively when it concerns knowledge or education. It advises us to research, find the truth, and seek out answers. Intellectual pursuits and investigations are most likely successful when it appears. Still, patience and attention to detail are key.

The Book near the significator suggests that we learn of a secret. When far, a matter remains hidden for a longer period of time. Additional cards can tell what it’s about, but caution is needed regardless.

ADVICE

The Book can mean hidden agendas at play and things going on behind the scenes. It’s generally serious so it asks us to concentrate and delve more deeply into matters to find out what we can. It demands patience for things to work themselves out. We mustn’t act or make a decision until we have the right information.

CARD COMBINATIONS

WITH THE...

THE COMBINATION MEANS...

ANCHOR

Truth, knowledge, checking facts.

BIRD

Assignment, homework, small task, short course.

CHILD

A new beginning not yet revealed, a new branch of interest.

CLOVER

A happy surprise, a wish answered.

CROSS

Spirituality, religion, wisdom, aspiration, soul-searching.

FISH

An improvement in finances unless accompanied by negative cards, accounting.

FOX

Discretion, hidden details, the fine print, need to dig out information.

GARDEN

A library, a study, a school, or a surprise visit.

LETTER

Important news shortly revealed.

LILY

Writing, research, and related professions, can mean changes in life direction.