The Etteilla Tarot

This post explains how to read the Grand Etteilla Minor Arcana, one of the most ancient and
vintage types of Tarot deck in the world. The cards have minimal style illustrations compared to
other Tarot art. Here, you can learn the meanings for these cards, which differ from the modern
Raider Waite Smith style of reading. This article explains.

Wands Meanings
Compared to the RWS interpretation, the Wands suit is where you will find the most variation. In
general, Wands are said by Etteilla readers to symbolise stresses; Wands and Swords are mostly
negative and Cups and Pentacles are mainly positive. Keep these differences in mind when you are
learning the interpretations for the Etteilla Wands.

Ace of Wands

Unfortunately, the Ace of Wands is a highly negative card in the Etteilla method of reading Tarot. It
will signal which do not work out well at all. Great misfortune and loss will be experienced.

Reversed, all is not as it seems in the seeker’s life. The seeker may be rushing into things before they
check the facts. If the seeker wishes to avoid any ill fortune, it is best they seek the assistance of other
people; they should not attempt anything on their own.

2 of Wands

In the Etteilla method, the 2 of Wands can signal heartbreak. The seeker will most likely suffer
depression because of this. However, they will make the situation worse by blaming others for their
predicament instead of taking full responsibility for where they have gone wrong.

Reversed, an ex-lover or long lost family member will make a reappearance in the seeker’s life.
Happiness and euphoria will be experienced.

3 of Wands

Usually, this card is indicative of a new business or endeavor. Success is guaranteed if the seeker
works hard to make their plans a reality. Working with others will be the best way the seeker can
achieve their goals.

Reversed signals an increase in the financial sense; money in the bank. In the seeker’s life, there will
be progress, less stress and more emotional satisfaction. The seeker may find themselves working
with others who are on the same page.

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4 of Wands

In the Etteilla method, this card signals a period of socialization and meeting other people. It is a
good omen for any endeavor. The seeker will be viewed positively by those around them. A sense of
community will not go unnoticed by the seeker.

Reversed, there will be success after much hard work and recognition by peers. The seeker can
expect an increase in all that is satisfactory: love, money and happiness.

5 of Wands

With this card, there will be investments into what the seeker wants to achieve. The investment could
be financial or in the form of time. At this period, the seeker can expect to take significant risks
which may or may not pay off.

When reversed the seeker’s hopes and dreams will be dashed. There will be the end of something
which was once essential to the seeker. Usually, this card reversed also signals conflicts.

6 of Wands

The 6 of Wands represents the home and all of the comfort it brings. There will be an increase in
responsibility and sense of responsibility. The focus will be on family, thoughts about the future and
all that entails.

When reversed there will be great rewards if the seeker puts the effort into what they are trying to
accomplish. However, there could also be significant failures if the seeker does not invest in pulling
off what they start. In general, this card spells fantasies of a better life.

7 of Wands

This card, represents a change in circumstances, usually for the better and most likely related to the
seeker’s career. They can expect an increase of influence and possible rise of social status.

When reversed, the seeker will be indecisive about what they want. Different areas of the seeker’s
life will be on shaky ground.

8 of Wands

In the Etteilla method of reading Tarot, the 8 of Wands represents success and pleasure from the
good things in life. There will be a beginning of new endeavors or a new spark in old ones. The
seeker can expect trips to the country. This card is a good indicator of marriages, homes and children.

Reversed this card represents the need or drive to right a wrong. There will be insecurities on behalf
of the seeker. They can expect a time of emotional upset.

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9 of Wands

There will be delays and setbacks which were not accounted for. Ill fortune in many areas of the
seeker’s life. Traditionally, this card is associated with natural disasters and severe weather.

Reversed indicates there will be setbacks which are out of the seeker’s control. Goals will not be
realized.

10 of Wands

In general, this card is negative. The seeker will be the victim of malice, slander and cannot trust
those around them. Deceitful was by those they have trusted is inevitable. Enemies have made plans
to ruin them; they should remain vigilant.

Reversed this card is also negative. This is not the right time for achievements; more hard work is
needed. Success is a possibility in the future but not at this time.

Page of Wands

Upright, the page of wands represents a young person who is in search of something. Usually, they
are looking for a relationship or a job.

Reversed, the Page is somehow trying to interfere with the seeker’s plans in some way. This Court in
this position can represent a love rival.

Knight of Wands

The Knight of Wands represents a person delivering news or information to the seeker in the Etteilla
method of reading Tarot. Typically, this person will be a friend or relative.

Reversed, this card speaks of gossip about the seeker which is being spread by the Knight. In this
case, the gossip will cause problems between friends and relatives.

Queen of Wands

The Queen represents an important woman in the seeker’s life, typically, a mother, wife,
girlfriend,etc. This lady is said to be understanding of the seeker’s actions. She is said to be a right
alley.

Reversed, this card speaks of a popular female friend who is well liked in the community.

King of Wands

A man with power and influence offers advice to the seeker. The King will be a good alley that the
seeker has on their side. Also, they will help the seeker with their words.

When reversed, the King will help with their wallet; the seeker can expect to gain financial aid from
the King.
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Cups Meanings
In the Etteilla system of reading Tarot, the Cups suit is rather positive. The most striking difference
between Etteilla and modern interpretations which newbies notice is The Ace of Cups; it is not read
as love but as a party. The 5 of Cups is also different. However, you will notice trends which blend
seamlessly with modern Tarot.

Ace of Cups

The Ace represents socializing and attending parties. The seeker will frequent places associated with
pleasure: clubs, restaurants, etc. They can expect to meet new people.

Reversed, the seeker will go through a period of change and inconsistency. The appearance of this
card can be a positive thing, but it depends on surrounding cards if the changes the seeker is going
through are for better or worst.

2 of Cups

The 2 of Cups is said to represent true love in the Etteilla method. There will be understanding and
commitment between two people.

Reversed, the seeker will experience dis-ease with their relationship. There will be unhappiness and
possibly even temptation.

3 of Cups

The seeker can expect success in all endeavours. There will be a turn for the better which will last
some time. They should look forward to a new job, relationship or anything which they want to
change for the better becoming a reality.

Reversed there will be happy endings and battles won. Often, there will be travel. The seeker can
expect things to happen rather quickly.

4 of Cups

A person in the seeker’s life is going to cause them stress. They will be giving energy to others which
they don’t have to give. It is sure that they can expect trouble.

Reversed speaks of expansion of horizons and it is a good card for education. Situations will turn for
the seeker’s benefit. A set of circumstances which may appear to be negative to begin with, but
which will result in opportunities you may not have had without a pitfall.

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5 of Cups

The seeker may experience an increase in riches and personal wealth. Often this card is associated
with inheritance. There will be a concern about legacy which will affect a family for generations.

Reversed there will be a return of someone who is missed by the seeker. They can expect good news
and surprises.

6 of Cups

The 6 of Cups in the Etteilla method of Tarot is the card of that which is the past and the influence it
has on the presents. Usually, it can signal history repeating itself. It can also be a warning not to let
that which was created in the past fade away due to neglect.

Upright the card is concerned with the past whereas reversed the future is the focus.

Reversed the card speaks of maturity and the gain of experience. The seeker can be reassured, also,
that dilemmas of the past and present will be corrected in the future.

7 of Cups

This card is interested with the mental state of the seeker; surrounding cards will give a clue as to
what they are feeling, their mental state and why this is relevant. The seeker must use their mental
power and intelligence to make their goals a reality. The seeker may spend much time reflecting and
daydreaming.

This card reversed is a positive omen. The seeker will create a plan which will help them achieve
their goals. Time will be spent designing the future instead of just daydreaming about it.

8 of Cups

The 8 of Cups signals the appearance of a blonde woman. The seeker will receive the support of a
woman, or the seeker will give support to a the woman.

When reversed there will be a time of happiness, joy and contentment which will last a long time.
Situations will turn out better than expected.

9 of Cups

As in other systems, the 9 of Cups predicts wishes fulfilled. The seeker will see success and triumph
against great odds. Luck is on their side.

Reversed the card is still positive but the seeker will encounter small setbacks on the road to success.
Eventually, they will achieve what they want.

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10 of Cups

The family and home will dominate the seeker’s life. Cities will be significant; surrounding cards can
give clues to how and what role they will play. Also, the seeker can expect some type of recognition.

Reversed, there will be a disruption in a family. Mourning is a strong possibility. The seeker will find
themselves at the center of conflicts.

Page of Cups

The Page of Cups represents a youngster who can offer a fresh perspective to the seeker. The Page is
valuable, useful and their ideas can benefit the seeker in some way.

Reversed, the Page of Cups represents a shady youngster in the seeker’s life which they should keep
a distance from in order not to cause conflict. This Page reversed will be emotionally insecure.

Knight of Cups

The Knight of Cups represents a young individual, typically a man, who brings gifts to the seeker.
There is also the possibility that they bring offers (as in business offers or trades).

Reversed, this Knight represents someone who offers help but then doesn't follow through.
Sometimes, it can represent someone who just disappears from the seeker's life.

Queen of Cups

The Queen of Cups represents either the seeker’s mother, girlfriend, etc. This character is who the
seeker goes to for emotional support and a sympathetic ear (or they will be in the future).

Reversed, this card represents a woman who does not wish to help the seeker emotionally. If
anything, they only want to see them fail. The Queen will meddle too much in the seeker’s business.

King of Cups

The Cup of Cups represents a man who wishes to support the seeker emotionally in some way. He
has been through similar things to the seeker so can speak from experience. He has the seeker’s best
interests at heart.

Reversed represents a man who is a terrible enemy to make. This King is in conflict with the seeker
and wishes to destroy their reputation. It is best if the seeker stays away from the King.

Sword Meanings
Of all the card interpretations in the Etteilla system, the Swords are most like modern interpretations.
You will notice one or two difference but these are much more subtle than they are in the other suits.
Because of their similarities with modern interpretations, the Swords suit is the easiest to learn so it is
a good idea start here if you are a newbie.
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Ace of Swords

This card warns against setting goals which you cannot achieve. This card also represents strong
emotions which can be used for good or evil. Extremes are always prevalent with this Ace.

Reversed pregnancy and fertility are indicated. If pregnancy is not possible, then this card indicates
rewards and increased influence for the seeker.

2 of Swords

The seeker will give assistance and kindness to a person who needs it. They will find themselves
supporting other people. The seeker will need to remain active during this time.

Reversed is a warning of the existence of a friend who is stabbing the seeker in the back. The seeker
should be careful and distrust those around them.

3 of Swords

As in the RWS tradition, the 3 of Swords speaks of heartache and, in general, painful situations. The
seeker can expect failures in many things which are close to their heart.

Reversed spells loss because of the seeker’s thoughtless actions. It will be an unlucky time which will
take mush effort to overcome.

4 of Swords

The 4 of Swords marks a period of loneliness. Often this can indicate a time of grieving which is a
standard interpretation. Surrounding cards can give clues to the origin of the seeker’s solitude.

Reversed predicts financial burdens. The seeker should hold onto their money and relationships
tightly if they want to protect them.

5 of Swords

The 5 of Swords signals a significant adverse event in the Etteilla method and possibly even death.
Bankruptcy and divorce are also possible. One of the worst cards in the pack.

Misfortune is inevitable; the fate of the seeker is said to be worst if the card is reversed. All hope for
the future will be dashed. Major depression is indicated; the future of the situation looks bleak.

6 of Swords

As in other forms of Tarot, the 6 of Swords represents travel. It is possible that this movement can be
figurative in the sense the seeker will move towards a goal. In general, they will see progress.

When reversed, important discussions will take place. A conversation the seeker will have may not
seem significant at the time, but will indeed play a significant role in the future. This card reversed
encourages discussions in general.
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7 of Swords

The 7 of Swords suggests there will be help available to the seeker if they can forget their pride and
ask for it. This help may be emotional; the seeker will go through a dilemma. They will be unsure if
they should do what is in their hearts or their heads and a friend may give them solutions.

Reversed this card is also about taking the advice of others but in this position, there is less resistance
to do so. The seeker will work as a team as opposed to trying to sort things out themselves.

8 of Swords

The seeker will find themselves in conflicts of character. They can expect to be heavily criticized by
other people. Arguments will be had out in public.

Reversed, the seeker should be mindful of dangerous circumstances. A serious accident is a

traditional prediction for this card in the Etteilla method.

9 of Swords

The 9 of Swords is considered a very unlucky card and an evil omen. With the 9 of Swords, the
seeker can expect solitude and time spent alone. Priests, nuns and religion, will be encountered.

Reversed there will be trouble caused by a close friend and unexpected conflict. The seeker should be
mindful of what they say and do to others; entrapment is possible.

10 of Swords

Bad news is foretold in the 10 of Swords. The seeker will experience emotional trauma and
depression. There will be an end to something which was once loved by the seeker (a job,
relationship, etc.).

Reversed, the seeker can expect success which is greater than anticipated. Past commitments and
efforts will pay off. Also, the seeker can be assured that, in the end, good will triumph over evil.

Page of Swords

In the Etteilla method of reading courts, the Page of Swords always represents a spy or a secret
enemy. The seeker should remain vigilant and trust no one.

Reversed the seeker will receive news from the page or about a the page. Shocks, surprises and
gossip are coming.

Knight of Swords

This card typically represents people of the military. There is also risks and conflicts associated with
military people.

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Reversed, this card represents someone with an inability to commit. Time and resources will be lost
and mismanaged.

Queen of Swords

The Queen of Swords typically represents a widow or single woman older woman. The Queen will
be hypocritical and judgmental. The seeker should be mindful that the Queen is not being deceptive
towards them.

Reversed, the Queen will have all of the traits of the Queen upright, but less likely to hide the fact;
upright she is cunning, reversed she is in your face. When reversed the Queen is more openly
aggressive towards the seeker.

King of Swords

In the Etteilla method, the King of Sword represents a man of the law or police. If not, he holds
considerable authority in general. Surrounding cards can give an indication of his influence is
positive or negative.

Reversed is the same as upright but he will have bad intentions towards the seeker. The King is
Swords reversed can represent he is abusing his power.

Coins Meanings
In modern times, Tarot reader often give the Pentacles suit a bad name; it is associated with money,
earthy possessions and, sometimes, greed. However, back in the times of Etteilla, the Pentacles were
considered the most luckiest suit. The Ace of Coins in the Etteilla system is actually the most
fortunate card to receive for a reading. Some of the Pentacles vary wildly from modern
interpretations but some have remained unchanged which is good if you are just starting your Etteilla
journey.

Ace of Coins

The Ace of Coins (or Pentacles) is said to be the best card in the pack by Etteilla readers. Happiness,
love success and all things positive are indicated. Some readers say the appearance of the Ace, can
override other negative cards in a spread depending on the positioning of other cards.

Reversed, The Ace of Coins is still positive. The seeker can expect substantial financial increases.
Problems will begin to fade.

2 of Coins

The two of Coins predicts embarrassment. Quarrels with others will create obstacles. The seeker can
expect inconveniences and niggling stresses. Things could be worst, but they could be better.

Reversed, the seeker can expect news out of the blue, traditionally, in the form of a letter. This news
will be from an unexpected source.
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3 of Coins

The seeker can expect to meet an important, well-known person. They will find themselves rubbing
shoulders with the rich and famous. These individuals will have an influence on the seeker’s life in
some way.

Reversed symbolises that the seeker is irritating those around them. The seeker will come across as
annoying and immature to others; an increase in maturity is needed.

4 of Coins

The seeker can expect new opportunities which may result in positive or negative consequences: this
depends on surrounding cards. Also, a traditional interpretation predicts the seeker will receive gifts.

Reversed, the seeker can expect setbacks due to unforeseen circumstances which are out of the
seeker’s control. Delays should be prepared for in advanced. There will be a decrease in energy and
zaz around this time.

5 of Coins

The 5 of Coins indicates a husband, wife, lover, etc. it is said to be the card of love. Kindness, peace
and contentment in relationships. Surrounding cards give clues as to the relevance to the reading.

Reversed the seeker will have an inability to move forward. They will have difficulty defining what
they want. The seeker may find that their enthusiasm for their aspects of their life has faded and this
is the source of their unhappiness. New interests are needed.

6 of Coins

The 6 of Coins is a card which is concerned about the future. Seeker is too concerned about what will
be instead of being present. The seeker should live for now not the future.

Reversed predicts that the seeker will set high goals and try hard to achieve them. For the best result,
the seeker should be mindful not to get swept away by fantasy, stay grounded!

7 of Coins

In the Etteilla system, the 7 of Pentacles spells financial troubles. Money will be borrowed and
sacrifices made. Personal relationships will be affected by outside pressure and money.

When reversed, financial worries will be greater than when the card appears upright. The seeker can
expect problems with borrowing and spending.

8 of Coins

The seeker can expect someone new coming into their life with this card in a reading. Usually, this
person is a dark haired female. They will indulge the seeker or who the seeker will take under their
wing and offer them guidance.
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Reversed, this card represents someone who is unwilling to spend. This person may be the seeker or
someone who is involved with them in some way. Lack of generosity can be expected.

9 of Coins

The 9 of Coins in the Etteilla system is similar to other systems in the sense it represents the rewards
of hard work. The beginning of a business or new hobby which will pay off in the future is also a
probable interpretation. There will be good news for relationships also; they will be harmonies.
Overall, it’s a good card to get.

When reversed the seeker should watch for deception and possible fraud. They may have loaned
money to a friend or family member which they will not get back. In general, the seeker is to keep
associates at arms length

10 of Coins

Generally, the 10 of Coins is a good omen in the Etteilla system. However, its relevance depends on
surrounding cards. This card represents the state of the seeker’s house and home.

Reversed, this card predicts success, good luck and contentment. It is possible that this gain will
affect a family for generations. The seeker can expect fortune with this card.

Page of Coins

The Page of Coins represents student in the seeker’s life (or a person of interests life). The Page will
be developing their life in some way through either school, work or business.

The Page will have lost opportunities when reversed. The card in this position symbolizes financial
problems and dreams dashed for the Page.

Knight of Coins

The Knight of Coins represents a man who is willing to help. He has the best interests of the seeker at
heart. Most likely he is a friend.

Reversed, the Knight represents an end of friendship with him. In this case, the Knight cannot be
relied on; the seeker can expect to be let down.

Queen of Coins

The Queen represents a woman who has high social status and (possibly) money. She will be
extremely confident. Her appearance in a reading will signal that she is offering someone assistance.

When reversed, the Queen will be a woman who lacks confidence. She will do things which are
morally questionable and will not be a good influence on the seeker.

King of Coins

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The King of Coins represents a man of money or science. He may be a banker, a doctor, he may be
anyone who has either good financial resources or influence. The appearance of this card signals that
the seeker (or person of interest) will receive some support from the

When reversed typically, this is financial but may be otherwise. When reversed, the above applies but
the King is a bad influence in some way. The seeker should try to distance themselves from the King.

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