Decan Ruler (Mercury): Mercury, a god of dualities and the space that bridges them, rules this decan. As the divine patron of commerce, Mercury embodies a swift presence that traverses every path yet belongs to no single place. Mastery of the space in-between brings distinct advantages, as commerce thrives on transporting goods back and forth, birthing markets that reward those who navigate them. This decan is about developing a profound commitment to one’s authentic self, living in accordance with one’s values regardless of circumstances or others’ opinions. Mercury endows its natives with a keen, innovative, and fiercely independent intellect. Their minds fluidly traverse the spectrum between established knowledge and daring invention, bridging the gap between the familiar and the unknown. This dynamic interplay fosters insights that are valuable both to visionaries challenging the status quo and to those upholding societal order. This decan signifies how to navigate the journey from one place to another, embodying the science of getting to a new place.

Decan (Aquarius): The middle decan of Aquarius symbolizes establishing autonomy outside of conventional frameworks, grounded in a conscious engagement with the unknown. While this decan is characterized by a profound presence beyond existing norms, there is a deliberate effort to establish an internal locus of stability in the self. While the first decan of Aquarius pushes against the constraints of the established order to explore what lies beyond conventional limits, the second decan focuses on autonomous figures who exist in liminal spaces and act as intermediaries, bridging the divide between outsiders and citizens, the poor and kings, and heaven and earth. The second decan of Aquarius highlights the need to reconcile the known and unknown, the practical and the ideal, the laws of matter and the will of the spirit. In order to traverse areas that are chaotic and unfamiliar one must develop cleverness. Those unbound by any law but their own, treading the space in-between long enough, grow wise. These esteemed figures represent the achievement of establishing autonomy between distinct worlds. Their wisdom stems from a deep understanding of both sides, and their authority is secured by their independence. They are sovereigns not of territories themselves, but of the spaces that exist between established boundaries.  

6: Sixes represent purpose in the world of the element.

Tree of Life (Tiphareth in Yetzirah): The 6 of Swords corresponds to Tiphareth in Yetzirah. In the Astral World, Tiphareth is the purpose of thoughts.  

Sephira (Tiphareth): All sixes deal with universal harmony from elemental mastery, and corresponds to the sixth sephira, Tiphareth, which is commonly referred to by Qabalists as “Beauty.” Tiphareth is associated with the Sun. The Sun, which sustains and illuminates Earth, represents the Light of the Soul and mastery over the four elemental aspects of Personality. The Sun archetype radiates life and vitality, sparking one’s unique journey to reach their highest creative potential through self-expression. 

World (Yetzirah): All Swords correspond to the third of four worlds, Yetzirah (“The World of Formation”), which is also called the formative world. The element associated with the World of Yetzirah is air.

The Story of Air: The element of air, traditionally symbolized by the suit of swords in the Tarot system, embodies the preeminent power of the intellect. The astrological air signs are renowned for their exceptional cognitive abilities, encompassing critical thinking and articulate expression. The intellect, a quintessential quality intrinsic to the air element, facilitates the processes of analysis, division, and the incisive capacity to cut through complexities when confronted with intricate problems that necessitate rational and discerning solutions. The narratives and stories aligned with the air element revolve thematically around the exploration of confronting and resolving challenges through the strategic application of mental faculties.

Time of Year: January 29/30 – February 8/9

Zodiacal Longitude: 10°00’–19°59’ Aquarius

Color (Hex Code): #FDC010