Suit of Fire (Wands)
In Denizens of Earth, the four minor suits are represented by their elemental names, fire, water, earth, air rather than the traditional tarot suit names, wands, cups, pentacles and swords. Below are two infographics which illustrate this. Additionally, in Rider-Waite decks the court cards are King, Queen, Knight and Page, in this deck those court cards are Father, Mother, Guardian and Child respectfully. For each of the minor cards, there is a brief explanation and then some keywords for your readings in bold.
father of fire
c. simum | White Rhinoceros
White rhinos are functionally extinct in the northern part of Africa, the southern species has around 20,000 animals left but are plagued by poachers. The story of rhinos can show humanity that we’ve lost a connection to the primal energy of the world if we take something innocent and use it for our own selfish gain.
Natural leader, visionary, honor.
mother of fire
c. lupus | Grey Wolf
Wolves are excellent mothers, taking great care in preparing for her litter, and protecting her children. She chooses a den with care that is away from rival packs and humans to give her pups the best chance at survival. Although, unlike many other animals she isn’t totally alone. Her male partner brings her food during the first weeks after giving birth and mothers in the same pack often watch each other's litters as they grow.
Confidence, independence, social butterfly.
guardian of fire
p. pardus | Leopard
Leopards are incredibly energetic and opportunistic hunters. They’ll go after prey as small as tiny birds and as big as giraffes. They’ve been known to drag the carcasses of animals 2-3 times their weight into trees for storage.
Energy, inspired action, impulsiveness.
child of fire
v. vulpes | Red Fox
The red fox is the most widespread of all the fox species. They can be found all over the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia and parts of northern Africa. They are excellent at adapting to novel environments and often settle near humans.
Inspiration, potential, free spirit.
ace.
l. nobilis | True Laurel
Laurel was used to fashion the laurel wreath of ancient Greece, a symbol of highest status, this tradition carried on to Rome as well. Because of this, laurel is the root word for baccalaureate and poet laureate. To achieve a high status at work, at home, with your art you must find inspiration around you, be open to new opportunities and turn your potential into true growth.
Growth, potential, learning.
two.
c. majus | Celandine
The name Celandine is actually an English corruption of the Greek word Chelidon “a swallow.” It received this name because it would come into flower when the swallows arrive in April and fade at their departure. According to medieval folk belief, the swallows would use the sap of the plant to impart sight to their young.
Progress, planning for the future, discovery.
three.
e. purpurea | Echinacea
The genus name is from the Greek echinos, meaning "hedgehog," an allusion to the spiny, brownish central disk of the flower. Echinacea can be brewed into an herbal tea that aids the immune system. When growing conditions are right echinacea plants can quickly take over the area.
Expansion, forward thinking, development.
four.
v. sororia | Blue Violet
The Iroquois or Haudenosaunee, an indigenous people from northeast North America, have a legend that the violet is a child born of both sky and earth. The violet represents harmony between worlds, and is often paired with roses in depictions of love, joy and equilibrium.
Harmony, celebration, joy.
five.
d. pinnata | Garden Dahlia
In Rider-Waite decks five of fire or wands represent conflict or disagreements. Traditionally Dahlias symbolize grace and kindness in the midst of pressure and strife. Dahlia tubers are edible and have been a food source during especially hard times for different civilizations including the Aztecs. In this deck the two ideas combine in the Dahlias to represent both conflict and the courage to continue.
Conflict, disagreement, overcoming.
six.
t. patula | French Marigold
Marigolds have a widespread and lengthy history of usage in numerous different civilizations. Notably, in Mexico marigolds are a symbol of remembrance and are popular during Dia de los Muertos and in Hinduism, marigolds are associated with the Sun. They symbolize auspiciousness, brightness, and positive energy.
Public recognition, success, positive self image.
seven.
s.wallissii | Peace Lily
Peace lilies are a common modern day gift for housewarmings and after a loved one passes. It’s a symbol of the peace of being at rest, protection and moving forward. It’s also often seen at Easter celebrations to symbolize rebirth.
Protection, perseverance, peace.
eight.
t. officinale | Dandelion
The dandelion, a very common weed is excellent at quick adaptation. Dandelions have been used by humans both medicinally and as food for centuries. The pilgrims brought dandelions to North America on the Mayflower.
Movement, quick change, swift action.
nine.
g. grandiflorus | Gladiolus
The Latin root of this long, slender flower is “gladius” meaning “little sword”. It refers to the sword-like shape and appearance of the plant’s leaves and flower spikes. The hardy plants were hybridized in the 18th century and grow in almost all colors.
Resilience, persistence, tenacity.
ten.
m. spicata | Garden Mint
Different species of mint have been used all over the world since ancient times for medicinal and culinary uses. A symbol of hospitality and wisdom, Pliny wrote “the very smell of it reanimates the spirit”. Ancient Hebrews scattered mint on their synagogue floors so that each footstep would raise its fragrance.
Responsibility, burden, completion.