Sabbats, Seasons, and Tarot Spreads

I recently set out to explore the concept of “human suffering” through Tarot. I used a short, simple four-card spread and tried to interpret the cards from a “philosophical” point of view. As I considered each card, I added information I gained through research.

In this article here, I’m not listing the Tarot cards that appeared. I thought it might be interesting for readers to ponder the points I’ve included and make their own guesses about the cards the ideas were based upon.

This examination of human suffering begins with the recognition that individuals frequently contribute to their own unhappiness by dwelling on the past and by resisting change. This desire to stay locked in the past makes it difficult for us to appreciate present-moment opportunities. We deny ourselves opportunities for joy and happiness. A similar idea is found in Stoic philosophy which teaches that we should accept change and focus on what we are able to control rather than stubbornly resisting new ideas and new ways. Clinging to a past that no longer exists is a key element in much of our suffering.

In addition to personal tendencies to hold on to the past, we are also susceptible to external influences that may distort our perceptions. These influences may include rigid ideologies, authoritarian systems, or manipulative narratives, which can be employed by others to exert control over our behavior. In certain cases, people around us may derive pleasure or actual benefit from our continued suffering, making it all but impossible for us to move forward and find effective solutions. This harmful dynamic is mirrored by existentialist concerns about authenticity and the pressures of conforming to external authorities. Pyschological research also emphasizes the importance of “being true” to who we are, and not allowing others to exert control over us.

Further analysis reveals that the central root of human suffering lies in the concept of choice. Existentialist thinkers such as Sartre and Kierkegaard emphasize personal responsibility and the role of choice in shaping one’s experience. We may make unwise decisions due to a lack of understanding, conflicting values, or external pressures, resulting in harm, regret, or hardship. Human suffering, therefore, is not the product of cruel fate or divine punishment, but rather emerges as a natural consequence of decisions made in states of confusion, fear, or misunderstanding. Modern psychology supports this view, highlighting how cognitive patterns and emotional states influence decision-making and life outcomes.

How do we move forward? How do we overcome suffering?

Passion and courage have the potential to move us out of our suffering. When actions are motivated by genuine energy and conviction—rather than by fear or obligation—we are more likely to make decisions that reflect who we truly are, decisions that allow us to live authentically and disrupt negative cycles from the past. While active engagement does not guarantee success, a willingness to step forward, accept responsibility, and participate directly in life creates the possibility for meaningful change. This aligns with existentialist ideals of authentic living and the Stoic pursuit of virtue through intentional action.

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Conclusion

In summary, human suffering is shaped by both internal and external factors: our tendency to dwell on the past, the influence of outside forces, and the choices we make under pressure or uncertainty. Recognizing the role of choice empowers us to break free from harmful patterns. By cultivating passion, courage, and a willingness to engage with life—principles echoed in existentialist, Stoic, and psychological thought—it becomes possible to overcome stagnation and pursue meaningful change.