Tarot cards and Hanafuda cards each have their own unique symbolism and rich history. Combining the four elements of Tarot—Fire, Water, Air, and Earth—with the 12 months in Hanafuda cards allows us to see new facets and connections in these mystical systems. Let’s explore how each month of Hanafuda can be correlated with one of the Tarot elements, considering the meaning of each element and the symbolism of each month.
Fire Element
Fire symbolizes passion, energy, will, and creativity. In Tarot, Fire corresponds to the suit of Wands. Fire is associated with moving forward, activity, and determination. It is an element that burns through obstacles and ignites everything around with its energy. Fire is also the light that illuminates the path and guides in moments of darkness.
March (Plum)
Symbolism: Beginning of spring, renewal, and rebirth.
Rationale: March signifies the start of a new cycle, akin to the energy of Fire, which initiates transformation and growth processes. The plum blossoms with bright flowers, representing the awakening of passion and creativity.
June (Peony)
Symbolism: Wealth and luxury.
Rationale: The June peony symbolizes lush blooming and vitality, corresponding to the energy and passion of Fire. The peony’s opulent flowers seem to “burn” against the backdrop of summer greenery, symbolizing abundance and fervent creativity.
October (Maple)
Symbolism: The ardor and beauty of autumn.
Rationale: October’s foliage, dyed in bright autumn colors, symbolizes the last burst of energy and passion before winter. The bright red and orange leaves of the maple resemble flames, representing intense energy.
Water Element
Water represents emotions, intuition, healing, and the subconscious. In Tarot, Water corresponds to the suit of Cups. Water embodies fluidity and adaptability, the ability to penetrate depths. It is an element associated with the emotional sphere, feelings, and intuitive perception of the world. Water also symbolizes purification and healing, giving life and maintaining balance.
April (Wisteria)
Symbolism: Grace and romance.
Rationale: April wisteria, symbolizing delicate emotions and romance, aligns with the element of Water, which is associated with the emotional sphere and intuitive perception of the world. The blooming clusters of wisteria create an atmosphere of refined beauty and sensuality, embodying subtle emotions and spring renewal.
August (Moon Over Mountain)
Symbolism: Silence and deep contemplation.
Rationale: Although the plant for this month is miscanthus, we associate this month with the element of Water based on the primary card of the month. The Moon over the mountain symbolizes deep emotions and intuitive perception, corresponding to the element of Water, which is associated with nocturnal meditations and tranquility. Moonlight reflected on the water creates an atmosphere of mystical serenity and deep reflection.
July (Clover)
Symbolism: Prosperity and abundance.
Rationale: July’s clover, with its abundant blooming and greenery, symbolizes fertility and material abundance, characteristic of Water. Clover, thickly covering the ground, represents the generosity of nature and its ability to bestow wealth.
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