The Empress is the archetypal Earth Mother, the Anima, the Feminine Principle. She is full figured, possibly pregnant, and is surrounded by lush greenery and fields of ripe wheat. Below her couch is a heart-shaped pillow with the symbol of Venus emblazoned upon it, and her flowing robe is decorated with pomegranates, a symbol of fertility. In the forest behind her a river flows freely with water, the symbol of life. Her upraised hand holds a scepter which demonstrates her power and authority over the things of this earth. Whereas the High Priestess represents the unconscious and the spirit, the Empress represents the earth and all the bounty and fruitfulness thereof. Her meaning suggests richness and fulfillment, the satisfaction of physical needs and desires. Like any card, there is the potential for excess in her abundance and when you see her you must ask yourself how her rich, sumptuous imagery speaks to your heart. Are you perhaps too immersed in the material world? Or does she promise you a fulfillment which you have been seeking but have not yet discovered? What does she tell you about yourself? Material and spiritual interests must be balanced in order to experience a fulfilled life, and neither should be taken to the extreme.
