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Truly Teach Me Tarot 
Hello, I was wondering whether by any chance you knew what symbol the archetype in the 10 swords is making with his right hand? he has his index and middle fingers extended and his little finger and thumb folded inwards … Sorry for asking something unrelated, but I am a bit stumped and find your knowledge and insight amazing… so am here asking … thankyou so much, Amber xx
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Hi Amber,
Sorry for the delay in responding. College and assignment deadlines unfortunately. With regards to the prostrate figure in the Ten of Swords and the fingers of his right hand there are a few theories that circulate. Mostly it is viewed as just how his hand lies as his life blood flows from him. However, there are some other theories.
The figure on the ground may be giving the ‘two fingers’ gesture to whatever it is that has brought him so low. He has had enough and will not take any more. He either chooses to die or become defiant in the face of his aggressor whether internal or external. He is going to live to fight another day. He wants us to know that it is not over, that he will survive, that he is better than this and will rise again.
The English and French in Medieval times battled a lot. The English Archers were known for their expertise and accuracy on the battlefield. Regardless of how much effort the French put in to improving theirs, the English were in a league of their own. As a result, the capture of any of the English Archers was highly prized. Once captured their enemy would cut off their index and middle finger so that they would not be able to draw their bow again. It was the greatest insult they could give to such skilled soldiers.
On the English side, the Archers who came to battle would stick up their two fingers at the French Archers in an act of total defiance letting them know that regardless of whose fingers they cut off, they were still a formidable presence and those with their two fingers would make them pay for what they had done. It was a taunting gesture to let their enemy know that they were not beaten.
Another theory is that he is still acting the victim or the martyr by trying to show us how awful his situation is by pointing back to all the swords in his back. Look how bad everything is, look what they have done to me. He may be trying to draw sympathy to him. He could also be still caught up in the ‘blame syndrome’ where he holds everyone else responsible for his condition by extending his hand out ‘there, it was her/him/those. They did it’.
This hand gesture could also suggest that you do not have the full story. What lies before you may not be exactly what has happened. There may be areas that are hidden or covered up.
I myself like the idea of the defiant gesture and one we all use in one form or another to give ourselves a good kick up the backside or to show others that we are not going to let them get the better of us.
Hope this has helped you somewhat.
Blessings,
Vivien
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Thankyou so much for your response. It’s very helpful and thorough and thought provoking … I have been looking into it also, and believe it may also be a gesture used to bless another, or give one’s blessing. In many aspects I guess very incongruent with the card, but possibly could indicate forgiving enemies? or accepting life’s lessons? or being at peace with the outcome he faces, no matter how difficult it appears? You’re amazing Vivien, thankyou for being such a wonderful light xx
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Hi Amber,
Yes, very incongruent with the card but on viewing it from a spiritual aspect, and remembering the knowledge that is gained after completing a cycle, your theories make perfect sense. Acceptance, forgiveness and being at peace are what most of us seek after a traumatic experience or journey. I must make a note of these and add them to the meanings for the Ten of Swords as it makes perfect sense. Thank you for your contribution.
Blessings,
Vivien
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Hello Vivien – I love the site.
I have been trying to contact you regarding readings – I wonder if you would be so kind as to let me know if you are still doing them. I left a message on a number I found for you on the web, but it could be out of date.
Its very hard to find correct contact details for you….
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Hello Vivienne
thank you for getting back to me .
I rang the number on this site http://www.selfgrowth.com/experts/vivien_ni_dhiuinn.html It went to a recorded message from you.
I understand you must be very busy, so if you can fit me in I’d much appreciate it.
How about a phone reading, rather than email, in which I ring you, thus I bear the phone costs, and can ask questions?
Ive done it this way in the past and it has worked very well.
warm regards
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Hi Marina,
I had totally forgotten I was on that directory. It was a long time ago when I had my Reiki Healing Practice. However, the phone number should be the same. I must go through all my voice-mails. Regardless, I have your email address from your comment and will message you privately.
Blessings,
Vivien
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