Incentivizing the Shadow: A “Numerical Synthesis” Pros-and-Cons Spread with Resolution
AUTHOR’S NOTE: A while back I came to the realization that the so-called “quintessence” calculation is anything but when applied to a group of input cards that doesn’t consist of the traditional four-card “cross.” (Quintessence in tarot terms simply means “fifth expression,” not “without equal”). I came up with alternative nomenclature for the numerical synthesis of any other collection of cards. Here I’m pursuing the binary and ternary syntheses for two-and-three-card arrays, which yield a trump card “roll-up” just as the quintessence stratagem does. On another note, although I almost never use the bottom-of-the-deck “shadow” or “base” card in my readings, here I’m putting it (or rather them) to good use as showing the “disincentive” side of an unsettled “action/inaction” scenario.
Begin by shuffling the deck and concentrating on the prospective action associated with the subject of the reading, allowing for reversals if you like. Then deal three cards from the top of the deck, face-up and left-to-right, in the usual fashion. This is the “Incentive” (or “pros”) side of the equation; as envisioned, it is intended to encourage taking the contemplated action in support of the querent’s objectives.
Next, turn the entire deck over and deal three cards from the bottom of the deck, face-up and right-to-left, immediately beneath the first set of cards. This is the “Disincentive” (or “cons”) side of the picture; in theory, it lobbies against pursuing the proposed initiative.
Below is a photo that graphically illustrates these steps. (All images here and in the second photo are from the mini and standard Waite-Smith Centennial Edition, copyright of US Games Systems Inc, Stamford, CT.)
When the cards have been placed, read the “Incentive” row left-to-right and determine how robust or anemic its promotion of the agenda is, then repeat this analysis for the “Disincentive” row, reading right-to-left. Based on the comparison, make a preliminary “best-guess” estimate regarding whether or not the action should be undertaken as stipulated. This should give a rough idea of how straightforward or convoluted the overall task will be; for more detail about the reasoning behind the preferred path, the card-by-card, “bright side” and “dark side” juxtaposition can also be evaluated one-on-one.
As shown in the photo below, perform a numerical “binary synthesis” of the two cards in each column to come up with a single trump card representing their combined influence. This proceeds in a manner identical to the standard “quint” calculation for all three sets. In my own practice, I subtract the face value of any reversed card rather than adding it to the total, which has two advantages: it permits the numerological routine to reach zero (which cannot happen with normal reduction by addition of digits) resulting in the Fool as the synthesis for the pair, and it can generate a reversed “roll-up” card, a valuable complement to the occurrence of reversals in the main reading. To complete my personal make-over, I ascribe the numbers 11 through 14 to the unnumbered court cards.
Rather than approaching the completed triplet in a directional manner from either side, I recommend treating the middle synthesis card as the “Principal Effect” or immediate outcome of the operation, with the left-hand card serving as a “Logical Modifier” to the perspective and the right-hand card as an “Intuitive Modifier.” Combined with Elemental Dignities between the three trumps, this array can indicate how dynamic, persuasive and well-favored the outcome is likely to be, and therefore how advisable it would be to bring the action to fruition as originally intended. If it looks doubtful, it may be time to back up and institute “Plan B” (not covered in this spread).
The final step is to calculate a “ternary synthesis” from the three “binary synthesis” cards to represent the “Key Take-away” from the reading, which can be interpreted as the “long-term consequences” arising from carrying the action through to the “Principal Effect” (near-term outcome) stage. The calculation uses the face values of the three preceding cards as before.
All of this additional information should be considered wise counsel that either confirms or contradicts the preliminary judgment from the “Incentive/Disincentive” analysis. By itself it is abstract in nature and has no operational significance in the matter. However, it is entirely possible that a glowing prognosis in the Principal Effect and Key Take-away positions will jump-start a tepid initial outlook, and the opposite could derail a promising kick-off. It all comes down to risk identification and allocation. If the cards in the example reading were any less compromised than they seem to be, I might be inclined to see all of the reversals as describing “covert operations” that could still enable pulling off the initiative as originally scoped. But it’s a long shot, and I would be inclined to advise standing down and seeking another avenue of opportunity.
I have some knowledge of the circumstances underlying this individual’s romantic aspirations, and I see him in danger of being “frozen out” by the object of his affection if he pushes ahead cavalierly. I’m fascinated by the Chariot in the “Deepest Shadow” position because it implies blind optimism, like “shooting in the dark.” It reminds me of Mike Myers’ nightclub shtick in So I Married an Axe Murderer: “Woman? Whoaaaa, man!” In other words, pull in the reins before it’s too late, something the Charioteer and his sponsor, the Emperor, are perfectly willing to do if they think they’re being jerked around. But the first five cards (of which four are reversed) reveal the querent-as-Emperor to be insensitive, combative, out-of-touch, hidebound and a bit cruel (typical Medieval royalty, eh?). He really should get off his high horse and “make nice” or he’s liable to be rudely unseated by the High Priestess, who seems to be steeling herself to unleash a “Big Chill” (and her two advisors are of the same mind). It looks like a “Humpty Dumpty” tale to me.
Originally published at http://parsifalswheeldivination.wordpress.com on September 5, 2024.
