4 | The Emperor
“He who wishes to be obeyed must know how to command.”
-Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince
The Emperor is card number 4 in the Tarot’s Major Arcana. In numerology, the number 4 symbolizes stability, order, foundation, hard work, and practicality. Associated with the four elements (earth, air, fire, water), the four cardinal directions (north, west, south, east), and the four seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall).
The Emperor represents the divine masculine, as the king of kings, enjoying structure, providing, defending, and protecting loved ones. Acting as both a breadwinner and a support system for those in need of security and stability. A powerful leader and visionary who likes to command and take action rather than sit back, and enjoys the earned respect in the process. As a driven leader, The Emperor makes a point to listen to others, taking in other viewpoints before having the final say, unintimidated by any conflict that may arise. The Emperor beckons you to claim your authority as a leader and influencer, and never let others put you down and make you feel small.
General meaning- Leadership, vision, authority, structure, stability, power, confidence, discipline, & protection
When out of alignment- controlling, dominating, rigid, reckless, ungrounded, stubborn, questioning self, & lack of discipline
Navigating The Emperor’s archetypal energy-
The Emperor calls us to step into our power, and not people please or seek validation, instead trusting the inner vision and believe in ourselves. The Emperor is the divine masculine yang energy we each possess, this energy, when harnessed and disciplined correctly, can move mountains and really make things happen! As a true leader, The Emperor knows how to inspire and care for others, lifting them up and bringing out the best in them. Knowing the most powerful leader loves and cares deeply for the community around them, rather than wanting the power and status solely for themselves. Recognizing leadership isn’t being the loudest or most forceful, but rather being intentional when communicating to have the greatest impact. The Emperor also has a wonderful ability to problem solve and connect to the bigger picture to best benefit everyone around them. As a tip, when struggling to feel like a confident leader, try bringing to mind someone you admire who possesses this energy and channel their energy. You’ll be surprised how much easier this needed energy can come when you do this.
In this card, we see our Emperor basking in his accomplishments and what he has built around him. His long hair down, showing his confidence and ease, as well as giving him the impression of a Viking, or even a lion. Behind our Emperor there is a castle and landscape showing a glimpse of the beauty of his domain. He’s a grounded Emperor at peace, not needing to prove or assert himself to those around him, having earned respect from the community he serves. We can see a crown on his head with four points, showing his active reign and secure foundation. With his ankh, the Egyptian symbol of life, on his right side. Recognizing the connection of the right side of the body as the divine masculine side. Much like this depicted Emperor, be unafraid to sit in your confidence and power!
Next up, connecting with the wise, structured teachings of The Hierophant. Stay tuned for the next card release in The Green Mountain Major Arcana’s journey next Friday, 5/23!
With love,
Megan Gonzalez
